SOCIAL MEDIA

HoYo FEST 2025: Southeast Asia’s Most Anticipated HoYoverse Event Returns this July

Monday, June 16, 2025



  • Creators and Fan Artists take the spotlight with Artist Alleys and HoYo FEST Stage Showcases
  • 1-Day Passes, Multi-Day Passes, and Fast Passes available from June 24

Celebrate and gather with fellow fans of Genshin Impact, Honkai Impact 3, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero as HoYo FEST returns in 2025! Taking place from July 24 to 27, 2025, HoYo FEST invites players and fans across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam to celebrate their favourite HoYoverse titles, and create unforgettable memories.

An Event Not To Be Missed by HoYoverse Fans

Now in its 5th year, Southeast Asia’s premier HoYoverse event – which has grown in scale over the years - is now taking place in exhibition centers across six cities.

HoYoverse fans will be treated to 4 days of onsite activities including themed booths done up in their favourite HoYoverse games. They also be able to take home event exclusive Genshin Impact, Honkai Impact 3, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero freebies, get the chance to purchase HoYo FEST exclusive items, be able participate in a lucky draw, and check out HoYoverse inspired merchandise from their favourite creators at HoYo FEST’s Artist Alley.

Championing Creators and Fan Artists

Following its introduction in Indonesia’s and Vietnam’s HoYo FEST in 2024, HoYo FEST’s Artist Alley will also debut in each HoYo FEST across Southeast Asia in 2025.

Typically held in Anime Comic Gaming (ACG) conventions, Artist Alley is where local artists can showcase and sell their own ACG inspired creations. At HoYo FEST 2025, fans can expect HoYoverse inspired merch from their favourite local artists and creators. This marks the first time that a gaming company is allowing fan-created merchandise to be sold at its own event in Southeast Asia.

Additionally, with the new Stage Segment, Cosplayers, Performers and Fan Artists can showcase their talents on the HoYo FEST stage. HoYoverse is proud to welcome creators and performers, who are inspired by HoYoverse’s games, to the Artist Alley and to the Stage. The final line up for the artists and performers that will be showcased at each country will be announced in late June.

Tickets for sale soon


Tickets for HoYo FEST will go on sale starting June 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM (UTC+8) on the official HoYo FEST website at https://hoyo.link/wqjjLntrY

Fans can choose from 1-Day Passes, Multi-Day Passes, or Fast Passes. Fast passes will come with early entry privileges, exclusive items, and priority access to HoYo FEST booths and activities.

The Ultimate Gathering for HoYoverse fans

From exclusive merchandise to vibrant community showcases, HoYo FEST 2025 is the gathering for HoYoverse fans to come together, connect, and celebrate their shared love for gaming and creativity. We look forward to welcoming our fans to experience HoYo FEST this July.

For full event details and ticket purchase information, visit the official HoYo FEST 2025 website: https://hoyo.link/wqjjLntrY




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Squishmallows are back at McDonald's with the new Happy Meal toys and three refreshing drinks

McDonald's Squishmallows Happy Meal

McDonald’s is bringing back the cutest cuddly buddies as Squishmallows returns to Happy Meal after two years! Collectors of all ages can join the hunt for this new squad of squishy besties that come individually with a Happy Meal starting June 13.

There are 10 Squishmallows collectibles that are available with the McDonald’s Happy Meal: Maritza the Cactus, Rorty the Monster, Cookie the Flamingo, Junie the Banana; Rossi the Cheetah, Mirren the Moth, Zumirez the Bat, Charles the Pickle, Cam the Cat, and Halley the Intergalactic Axolotl – the newest Squishmallows character that’s exclusive to Happy Meal!

Customers can even unlock a digital mini game by scanning the code with their Happy Meal box to discover more about their favorite Squishmallows characters.

To make every McDonald’s visit more exciting, one can indulge in three new limited-edition Squishmallows-inspired McFloat drinks—each one sweet, refreshing, and perfect for humid days. Available in fun flavors like Cotton Candy, Raspberry, and Grape, these colorful treats are topped with creamy soft-serve ice cream and pair perfectly with fries or any McDonald’s meal. They’re also great as a cool, on-the-go refreshment.

“We’re excited to partner once more with Squishmallows. Our customers are sure to enjoy the cute collectibles with their Happy Meal,” says Ada Lazaro, VP and Chief Marketing Officer, McDonald's Philippines.

Lazaro adds, “We’re also looking forward to our customers trying our latest product offering. Our new McFloat flavors were inspired by the fun and colorful spirit of Squishmallows, so customers can expect a refreshingly sweet taste with every sip.”

Soft, sweet, and full of personality, Squishmallows are sure to bring more feel-good moments at McDonald’s. Collect all 10 plush toys with every Happy Meal or try the three new McFloat flavors with your favorite McDonald’s meal. Available while supplies last in all McDonald’s stores via dine-in, Drive-Thru, and delivery.

For more information, visit McDonalds.com.ph, or follow @McDo.ph on Facebook, and @McDo_ph on Instagram.
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Elevate Dad’s everyday living with Beko lifestyle solutions

Friday, June 13, 2025

As Father's Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to honor our dads or father figures who mean the world to us. Our dads express their love in many ways, and there’s no better way to give back than by providing them with smart solutions that can enhance comfort and convenience in their daily lives.

Beko, from Europe’s No. 1 Large Home Appliance Company*, offers home appliances designed to make tasks easier with reliable performance that you can count on. Surprise your Dad with thoughtful gifts this Father's Day:

The Perfect Brew, Just for Him


For the dad who cherishes his morning fix, the Beko CaffeExperto Espresso Machine offers the perfect brew. With over 10 coffee options—from latte and espresso to cappuccino—he can craft his favorite drink exactly how he likes it. For the perfect cafe-quality foam, some versions have the steam wand for manual control, while models with automatic jug help simplify the process.

This machine delivers barista-quality coffee conveniently at home with just a few taps, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen panel and easy-to-use compact design that also makes for hassle-free cleaning and maintenance.

Imagine your dad waking up to the rich aroma of his favorite brew, effortlessly made right at home.

His New Cleaning Buddy


Give dad the gift of a spotless home with Beko vacuum cleaners that effortlessly tackle dust and dirt. For hands-free help, the Beko Robot Vacuum features various cleaning modes—Auto, Spot, Wall, and Wi-Fi-controlled Manual—and utilizes Gyro Sensor Technology to ensure a thorough clean on both hard floors and carpets.

For hassle-free smart cleaning, Beko vacuum cleaners, such as the VRT94929VI, offer great value with different nozzles for various cleaning needs. For a budget-friendly option, the VRT50225VB is a solid choice, while the VCO32818WR features a bigger dust bin capacity and 290W suction power for larger home coverage. It's the perfect way for him to relax while the home stays spotless.

Cool Gift for the Coolest Dad


Your dad deserves a gift as cool as he is this Father's Day! If you are looking for a cool and practical gift, check this video from content creator Chlenzy Rave Victoria, who just found the perfect one for Father's Day with the Beko window-type air conditioner.

See full video here.

The Beko window-type air conditioner series offers powerful and efficient cooling that won't break the bank. It features a Jet Cool function to instantly provide cooling and an Eco Mode for maintaining energy efficiency to keep electricity consumption in check. Plus, the washable filter is a breeze to remove and clean for effortless regular maintenance.

Beko has non-inverter models such as 0.6HP (BPFOW 060), 1.0HP (BPFOW 090), and inverter models like the 1.0HP (BPVOW 090) or 1.5HP (BPVOW 120); the coolest gift for the coolest man in your life.

Effortlessly Crisp Clothes

For the dad who's always on the move, looking sharp is crucial. The Beko garment steamer is the perfect solution for achieving perfectly pressed, hygienic clothes. It's incredibly versatile, making it ideal for steaming dress shirts, jackets, curtains, and even upholstery.

With this steamer, you simply hang and steam for effortless wrinkle removal. Plus, its continuous steam output of 25g/min effortlessly smooths fabrics, and the anti-drip feature ensures no liquid leaks onto clothing. Beyond looking great, the steam sanitizes fabrics and removes odors, keeping everything fresh for confident wear.

Show your love with functional gifts that make everyday tasks effortless. Visit any leading appliance store near you or visit www.beko.com/ph-en and on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @bekoph to know more.

*Licensee limited to certain jurisdictions.
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This Father’s Day, Get Closer to Your Dream Ride


Start the journey with PSBank Auto Loan

As a dad, you wear many hats—driver, navigator, mechanic, and the family’s go-to guy for every trip.

For you, a reliable car isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about being there for your family, whenever they need you.

This Father’s Day, give yourself the ride you deserve. With PSBank Auto Loan, getting behind the wheel is simple, fast, and hassle-free.

Fast, Flexible, and Made for Dad’s Busy Life

Let’s face it: buying a new car is a big investment. That’s why having the right financing partner makes all the difference. With everything you juggle each day, car financing should be the least of your worries.

Start your journey by planning ahead with the PSBank Auto Loan Calculator, which helps you estimate your potential monthly payments in just a few clicks. Once you're ready, you can apply for a PSBank Auto Loan online—and get a loan decision in as fast as 24 hours.

Managing your payments is just as simple.You can make payments through PSBank Mobile, PSBank Online, over-the-counter at any PSBank branch, or at 7-Eleven stores, among others.

And here’s a bonus: when you make advance or excess payments, you automatically earn rebates through the Prime Rebate feature. That means you can reduce your total loan amount, shorten your loan term—or even both.

Because every dad loves a good deal, you can also check PSBank’s Pre-Owned Cars at budget-friendly prices. You can either browse available units online, or drop by the PSBank Pre-Owned Auto Mart at 8003 Lands R Us Realty Compound, Manalac Ave., Bagong Tanyag, East Service Road, Taguig City. Units are available for viewing from Monday to Saturday, 8am to 4:30pm.

Dad’s Maaasahan Partner

For dads juggling work, family, and everything in between, it’s about having a reliable partner on the road—with help from PSBank Auto Loan with Prime Rebate to make it all possible.

Apply for a PSBank Auto Loan through PSBank Online Loan Application, or visit your nearest PSBank branch. For more information, visit www.psbank.com.ph or follow PSBank on Facebook.

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RMC Season 9 delivers an epic finale as APBREN takes home the crown and brand new units of realme GT 7


From intense clashes, a star-studded showmatch by ML icons, and epic performances by SUPAFLY and KAIA, RMC Season 9 ends on a thrilling championship sweep

The realme Mobile Legends Cup Season 9 concludes with a bang as APBREN secured the coveted championship title last June 7 at SM North EDSA The Annex during the Grand Finals match against Uncle Drew Gamerpact.

APBREN cemented their legacy with a powerhouse performance, delivering a flawless 4-0 sweep against their contenders, proving their dominance on the big stage.

In the final round, player Jamespangks led the decisive charge for APBREN. He delivered a pivotal 5-3-4 Kill-Death-Assist ratio using the hero Lancelot. His impressive play energized the crowd and sealed the team's game-winning momentum, ultimately confirming APBREN's winning sweep.

Jamespangks' skill and gameplay earned him the Grand Finals MVP Award for his performance. His versatility and control using heroes Ling, Leomord, Lukas, and Lancelot across all four rounds played a vital role in APBREN’s championship run.

Throughout the intense matches, players relied on the official tournament device, the realme GT 7, which powered every play with seamless performance and ultra-smooth gameplay. With its Dimensity 9400e processor and lag-free responsiveness, the realme GT 7 gave competitors the edge they needed to perform at their peak under pressure.

The grand champion takes home a massive prize of P600,000 along with five brand-new realme GT 7 smartphones, a prize worthy of APBREN’s monumental victory in RMC Season 9.

Meanwhile, Uncle Drew Gamerpact emerged as the first runner-up after a season-long campaign marked by grit and determination. Their journey through the competition showcased resilience and skill, earning them P250,000 in cash and five brand-new realme Number Pro Series smartphones.

From the start until the end of the event, the RMC Season 9 Grand Finals proved to be a show-stopper. Rapper SUPAFLY kicked off the festivities with an electrifying performance that set the tone for an action-packed day.

The energy grew stronger with a star-studded show match featuring Mobile Legends icons OhMyV33nus and Wise Gaming, realme Ambassadors, Sharlene San Pedro, and Doc Z.

The Squad roared as Team Ming, led by Wise and Sharlene, clashed with Team Veez, led by OhmyV33nus and Doc Z, in a thrilling showdown.

As the curtains closed on the grand stage, P-pop girl group KAIA delivered a stunning performance to wrap up the day, elevating the energy to new heights and giving the Squad a final moment to remember.

RMC Season 9 concludes on a high note, showcasing the country’s emerging Esports talents and celebrating their skill, passion, and the unifying power of the mobile Esports community, made possible with the support of its official sponsors Grab, Move It, TTRacing, Converge, and Grind.

For more updates and detailed announcements about realme and RMC, visit realme’s official website and follow its Facebook page.
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Hello, Home, Forever: RLC Residences Expo 2025 Celebrates the Heart of Every Homebuying Journey


Behind every home is a story—a quiet hope, a long-held dream, a decision shaped by love, growth, and courage.

For many Filipinos, the search for a home is more than just choosing the right number of bedrooms or the perfect location. Just like any relationship, it requires commitment, and it starts with knowing when it’s time. When the place you live finally matches the life you’ve built. When you can look at a front door and say, “This is it.”

This June 20 to 22, RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever invites home seekers to experience that turning point. Happening at Park Avenue, Bridgetowne, Pasig City, the three-day event is more than just a showcase of property developments—it’s a celebration of every person who has ever asked, “Is this the one?”

A Journey That Begins with You

As Robinsons Land celebrates 45 years of building communities, RLC Residences remains a trusted partner in the journey toward finding a home where life’s stories can unfold.

At the RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever, every detail is crafted with home seekers in mind, recognizing that a home is deeply personal and unique to each individual. From an immersive property showcase to personalized consultations, the Expo will offer more than just units—it offers a chance to connect with spaces where memories will be made and futures will grow.

To make this journey even more rewarding, the expo will share exclusive promos and event-only offers. Home seekers can enjoy limited-time discounts, flexible payment terms, exclusive freebies, and exciting raffle prizes—designed to make saying “yes” to your forever home even more memorable.

Real, relatable insights from industry experts and home enthusiasts also take center stage at the Expo. Featured speakers include Charm De Leon, personal finance content creator and founder of Ready2Adult PH; Frances Cabatuando, the beloved “Mayora” behind the Home Buddies community; and Heart Evangelista, RLC Residences Brand Ambassador and proud homeowner. Together, they’ll share personal stories and practical advice on what it truly means to find—and choose—the right home.

A Moment That Could Change Everything

At its heart, RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever is not just about exploring properties—it’s about embracing the deeply human journey of finding a place to belong. Whether you're just beginning to dream of your own space, actively searching for “the one,” or simply discovering what "home" could mean for you, this event meets you where you are.

Because home isn’t just a destination – it’s a feeling. And sometimes, all it takes is one moment, one story, or one unexpected spark to realize: you’re finally home.

Register now to be part of this meaningful homefinding experience.
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SM hosts biggest ARMY Fan Festival, Welcome to BorahaEast!

Wednesday, June 11, 2025


This June to July, East Metro turns purple as SM Malls in the East invite all ARMYs to join the Welcome to BorahaEAST celebration — the biggest fandom event of the year - happening from June 13 to July 9 across 7 SM malls: SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City Taytay, SM Center Angono, and SM City East Ortigas.

Launched under SM Supermalls’ Extra Exciting East regional campaign and the nationwide SM Fandom initiative, Welcome to BorahaEAST is a tribute to the music, message, and global impact of BTS. This multi-mall celebration gives fans the chance to connect, express their love for BTS, and create unforgettable purple memories through curated activities designed especially for the ARMY community.

What to expect: A full month of purple magic

Purple illumination (June 13–July 9)

Witness all 7 malls light up in iconic BTS purple, symbolizing the group’s love and connection with their fans. It’s the perfect way to kick off the BTS Festa season in the East!

Simultaneous cup sleeve event (June 14)


Join fellow fans for a day of fandom unity, photo ops, and exclusive cup sleeves as all seven SM malls host a massive BTS-themed cup sleeve event.

ARMY fan gathering, pop-up market, and key ring party


Celebrate an OT7 reunion with your ARMY friends, shop for K-merch, and enjoy interactive booths and installations at select fan events:

  • June 14 – SM City Taytay
  • June 15 – SM City Marikina
  • June 21 – SM Center Angono
  • June 29 – SM City East Ortigas
  • July 5 – SM City Masinag

ARMY key ring party


  • June 22 – SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Random play dance

  • July 5 – SM City San Mateo

End the celebration with a burst of energy as ARMYs take center stage and show off their dance moves during a full-on BTS Random Play Dance showdown!

Where music meets memories

Welcome to BorahaEAST is more than a celebration — it’s a place for connection. It brings together fans from all walks of life who have been inspired by BTS’ music and message of hope, self-love, and togetherness. The event series reflects how SM Supermalls continues to champion safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for fandoms to thrive.

So, whether you’re a newly converted ARMY or celebrating your BTS era with longtime friends, this is your sign to head to the East. Spend the BTS Festa season with your ARMY friends, collect memories, and celebrate — because a new chapter has begun.
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Rainy season ready: Beko shares smart tips and big discounts for indoor-friendly laundry

The PAGASA has officially announced the start of the Habagat season, signaling the arrival of the rainy season across the Philippines. While the cooler weather is a welcome change from the summer heat, it's essential to prepare your home to brace for the coming rainy days.

Beko, from Europe's No. 1 Large Home Appliance Company*, is here to help you gear up for the rainy days with the Splash Into Savings Promo, where you can save up to 36% on Beko washing machines and dryers for a worry-free laundry even when indoors.

Here are some helpful tips to prepare for the rainy season:

Tip 1: Check Your Home for Any Repairs. Before the heavy rains begin, use the sunny days to inspect your home. Look for any needed repairs, especially on your roof and gutters, to stop leaks and water damage. Fixing small issues now can save you big trouble later, keeping your family safe and dry inside.

Tip 2: Prepare an Emergency Kit. Be sure to get ready with emergency essentials such as candles, flashlights, extra batteries or power banks, and some canned goods and snacks. Keep a list of emergency hotlines handy and secure important documents in waterproof bags. Having these things ready will give you peace of mind when the weather becomes unpredictable.

Tip 3: Master Indoor Chores. The rainy season means more time spent indoors, which can make laundry challenging because of the limited sunlight. To avoid kulob smell in clothes, invest in a reliable laundry companion like Beko’s washer and dryers..


The Beko WCV10746M Front Load Washing Machine has 10 kg washing capacity and 15 wash programs such as the StainExpert to remove 24 types of stains, the Xpress Super Short, which can clean up to 2 kg of laundry in just 14 minutes, and the AquaWave system that gently produces a wave-like motion for better cleaning of various types of fabrics, be it cotton, wool, or synthetic. Get it now for only P31,990 (SRP P49,990; save P18,000).


If the sun’s not out, a dryer is your ultimate solution for fresh-smelling clothes. The Beko B5T46203M Front Load Dryer has 12 kg drying capacity, 15 drying programs for less ironing time, and the IronFinish feature that uses steam to reduce wrinkles, almost like they were dried under the sun! Save P15,000 and get this for only P49,990 (SRP P64,990).


For an all-in-one solution, check out the Beko HTV9743X Front Load Washer-Dryer has 9 kg washing capacity and 5 kg drying capacity. It features 15 washing programs and the SteamCure Hygiene+ technology, which uses steam before the wash to loosen tough stains and after to smooth the fabric for hygienic clothes and easier ironing. It is now on sale at P35,990 ( SRP P49,990; save P14,000).

All these front-load models are powered by the innovative ProSmart Inverter for quiet, durable, and energy-efficient performance.

If you're looking for more options, the Beko’s top-load and twin tub washers offer big savings without compromising performance. Save up to P4,000 on top-load washers, which have 10 washing programs and technologies such as the AquaLogic feature, which saves water by sensing half-loads, and the ExpertSpin feature for energy-efficient laundry.


Get up to P3,000 in savings for twin tub washers, perfect for big batches of clothes. This model comes with a washer and dryer featuring Ultra-Dry Technology for faster drying, a rust-proof body which ensures powerful performance and durability that lasts up to years, and a lint filter for clothes that are truly clean and spotless.

Don't let the rainy season catch you unprepared. With Beko's smart home tips and Splash Into Savings promo, you can ensure comfort, convenience, and clean clothes for the family. Visit your nearest appliance store for more details. Promo runs until August 31, 2025.

Stay updated with Beko! Visit www.beko.com/ph-en and on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @bekoph.

*Licensee limited to certain jurisdictions.
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Celebrate Independence Day with purpose and pride at Shangri-La Plaza

Tuesday, June 10, 2025


Check out all the fun Pinoy activities from sunrise to sunset on June 12!

Shangri-La Plaza is raising the flag this June 12 with an array of activities designed to honor heritage, celebrate community, and uplift local talent. From an invigorating morning run to a showcase of Filipino design, culinary delights, and historical films, Shang celebrates Independence Day with purpose and pride.

Kick off Independence Day with movement, unity, and community spirit at the Freedom Sunrise Run. In partnership with the District 2 Run Crew, this special run begins bright and early at 5AM at the Streetscape. The first 50 participants will receive special freebies and snacks, and everyone can enjoy a well-deserved coffee party at Café Lyon after the run.

Then, spend the day celebrating everything Filipino at Shang as it lights up in patriotic shades of royal blue, crimson red, and golden yellow. Discover artistry and craftsmanship of some of the country’s most celebrated designers. Browse and buy stunning creations from renowned talents like Francis Libiran and Rajo Laurel, whose works beautifully blend contemporary style with Filipino heritage.

Apart from his elegant bridal creations, Libiran is recently most known for designing Team Philippines’ Sinag Barong at the Paris Olympics 2024. A go-to among the country’s most discerning set, Laurel has a storied fashion career. His latest work includes the Alon collection that takes inspiration from the Philippine shores using a special abaca-and-silk handwoven material from Abra.

Independence Day is also a time to savor the rich flavors of Philippine cuisine. Dine like a true Filipino foodie and explore traditional dishes and modern twists at a Shang’s roster of restaurants. Indulge in hearty Filipino fare at Manam, classic favorites at Via Mare, or contemporary Filipino cuisine at Mesa and Cuesina Garden Bistro. For a delightful merienda, swing by Bo’s Coffee Primo, Candid Coffee, Figaro Coffee, or Razon’s of Guagua for some comforting local treats.

For those feeling artsy, head over to Papemelroti. This beloved brand known for paper goods has prepared Independence Day craft kits, including paper dolls and drawing sets, that mall guests can purchase and assemble at their store.

Round out the holiday at Red Carpet Cinemas and catch critically acclaimed films that honor Filipino heroes and history, Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, for only PHP150 per film. Both helmed by well-known director Jerrold Tang, this twin bill of historical films about the valiant generals Antonio Luna and Gregorio del Pilar is an inspiring way to reflect on the sacrifices and triumphs that shaped our freedom.

It’s going to be a full day of Filipino history, culture, and spirit as Shangri-La Plaza marks Independence Day with activities designed to ignite our patriotism and love for our homeland.

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.



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James Reid offers breather in love’s chaos on new single “Pahinga,” featuring TJ Monterde

James Reid Pahinga

Multi-awarded singer, actor, and all-around creative force James Reid has officially dropped his new single “Pahinga,” featuring pop hitmaker TJ Monterde.

The soul-stirring collaboration serves as the focus track off the jgh (Deluxe) EP, released today under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music.

Produced by James Reid and Brian Lotho and co-written by both artists with Jason Marvin and TJ Monterde, “Pahinga” offers a refreshing take on love’s quiet resilience. The track doubles as a searing ballad that reflects the maturity of lovers during difficult moments, not by fighting harder but by pausing with care.

According to James, “Pahinga” doesn’t demand resolution through drama; it seeks solace in stillness. The song essays the quiet understanding between partners who, in the wake of emotional storms, choose to pause, breathe, and stay for love.

“It began with a real-life experience,” James recounts a previous encounter, which became the inspiration in writing the track. “I realized you need to quiet the mind so you can hear your heart. Pahinga is about patience and perseverance in relationships. The blend of country and R&B was something I’ve been wanting to try recently, and I think the genre really helped bring out the sincerity of what we were trying to say.”

From its tender, soothing melodies to its vulnerable lyrics (Pahingi nang isang minuto, mataas lang emosyon ko ngayon. But after all this, mahal pa rin kita), the track carries the weight of truth only lived-in love can bear. With Monterde’s signature warmth and Reid’s introspective sincerity, “Pahinga is a lullaby for grown-up hearts still learning how to rest in love.

But “Pahinga” is just one chapter of a larger story. It anchors the jgh (Deluxe) EP, a carefully expanded edition of James’ 2024 release of the same title. The deluxe version of the EP also contains live versions of all the songs in the previously released record, with the addition of “Your Boy,” “Pahinga” and “Hurt Me Too,” which further underscore the record’s intimate appeal.

“I’ve really enjoyed recording live versions of my songs, so I wanted to package them together with my new song, Pahinga, to wrap up the whole JGH journey back into OPM,” reveals the ‘Mirasol’ singer in a press statement.

Eschewing polish for authenticity, these renditions echo the warmth of a jam session shared among close friends. James and his team wanted the listeners to feel “like they were there in the room with him and the band,” while embracing the imperfection and intimacy that come with an unplugged recording. “I wanted the audience to feel like they’re there hanging out with me,” he adds.

First released in 2024, ‘jgh’ marked James’ pivotal return to making pop-leaning tracks with distinct OPM sensibilities. ‘jgh’ deluxe EP (short for “just got home”) gives an intimate glimpse into the celebrated multi-hyphenate’s past and present life, chronicling how he has matured all these years, both as an artist and as a person.

With a blend of pop, R&B, and OPM sensibilities, the EP captures Reid at his most vulnerable, rediscovering the earnest, grounded parts of his identity that he may have lost touch with and learning to forgive himself and accept the flaws that came with it. Now with the deluxe edition, that homecoming feels even more complete.

James Reid’s new album, ‘jgh’ deluxe EP is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music. Watch out for the release of the “Pahinga” live performance video via James Reid’s official YouTube channel.
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