PH BLOG ➹

Film enthusiasts can now look forward to watching the much-awaited Metro Manila Film Festival movies as SM Cinema in SM City Marilao finally reopens on December 25. As SM welcomes movie goers once more, SM Cinema highlights the safety procedures that need to be observed for a worry-free movie going experience. All patrons need to wear well-fitted face masks at all times. Temperature and symptoms will be checked upon mall entry. A health declaration must also be presented upon ticket purchase. Moviegoers from adults to kids, must be fully vaccinated to be allowed inside the cinemas. Ensuring safe and fun theater going experience, SM Cinema will likewise have a capacity restrictions to allow customers to physically distance one seat apart from each other. Bringing food inside will also be prohibited at the time being but drinking water will be allowed in consideration of possible emergencies and health risks. SM remains committed to the safety and well-being of its mall goers as each...

 Budding R&B artist LOIR reflects on the process of growth and peace of mind on her new single “Umaga”—out now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Philippines . Inspired by her realizations in life and romantic relationships, the track maps her journey towards acceptance and starting anew with the right mindset. Laced with lush strings, acoustic guitars, and minimal beats, the hypnotic slow jam is produced by frequent collaborators HavoMusic and Goodson, whom LOIR worked with on “Sakay.”  It also features a rap verse and songwriting credit from acclaimed hip-hop artist Guddhist Gunanita. The two have teamed up together earlier this year for the sun-kissed bop “Dalampasigan,” which to date, has more than 600 thousand views on YouTube alone. Both acts star on the official music video of “Umaga,” which showcases a love story arc set in a magical forest. LOIR essays the role of a Diwata, who unexpectedly gets entangled in a forbidden romantic relationship with a hun...

Top Dawg Entertainment’s multi-platinum selling, chart-topping and award-winning recording artist SZA has officially dropped her new single “ I Hate U .” Initially released on an anonymous Soundcloud account this year along with “Nightbird” and “Joni,” the irresistible slow jam emerged as a favorite among fans. The track is produced by Rob Bisel, Carter Lang, thankgod4cody, and Dylan Patrice. With her soulful vocals enveloping a minimalist sonic backdrop and laid-back synths, SZA reflects on a rocky romantic relationship that seemed to have taken a toll on her emotional health. Upon its release, the mesmerizing urban track received positive response from various music critics all around the world, with Brooklyn Vegan calling an “airy R&B” in “fine form.” It also marked an impressive performance on its first day as it debuted at No. 1 on both Spotify US and Apple Music US charts despite the surge of holiday-inspired tracks, and is predicted to place high on the Billboard Hot 100 ch...

  Filipino experimental/alternative artist BLASTER redefines the Christmas tune canon with a new single that essays the profound sadness and grief of celebrating the holidays in the time of pandemic. His latest offering “ PASKO’Y HINDI NA MASAYA ,” out today via Island Records Philippines , is dedicated to countless of people whose lives were hit hard by unfortunate circumstances, and are dreading of how challenging the days might be—be it experiencing Christmas with the loss of a loved one or abandoning expectations at least for this season’s run as a way of coping. “This one is not really about celebrating Christmas,” says the eclectic singer-songwriter and producer. “It’s more of a tribute to those that we’ve lost, and a nostalgic yearning of how Christmas used to be.” While BLASTER’s “PASKO’Y HINDI NA MASAYA” doesn’t fall under the conventional holiday songs that articulate the merry warmth of the yuletide spirit, the modern day anthem gives a sobering reality to some folks wh...

With its propulsive beats and hip-hop swagger, the Pinay quartet shows unwavering commitment to inspire young music listeners to stand up for what they believe in and encourage them to find their inner strength to go after what they want. The song, which literally means “Don’t Need Ya,” puts a refreshing spin on empowerment anthems while taking into consideration the values, perspectives, and views of R Rules as individuals and as a collective. Aside from using their platform to inspire change and lift each other up, the Filipino girl group also shares that their latest track promotes love and kindness in any way or form, be it for your own self and for others who need it. “DNY” is co-written by Kevin Yadao and Tiny Corpuz, and co-produced by Cursebox and Corpuz,  with the goal to speak out against the impossible standards imposed to women and articulate the challenges that they go through towards claiming their space and earning respect.  With its masterful blend of music in...