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  • izna are finding their rhythm on their own term

    izna are finding their rhythm on their own term

    In an exclusive interview with Philippine Concerts, the fast-rising K-pop group reflects on growth, artistry, and the trust that holds them together as they enter a new era with “METRONOME” and prepare to bring their first concert tour to Manila.

    There is a particular moment in a young K-pop group’s trajectory when the story begins to shift.

    The debut has happened. The introductions have been made. The first songs, stages, and milestones are already part of the record. What follows is a more complicated and revealing question: Now that the dream has become real, who are you becoming?

    For izna, that question is taking shape in real time.

    Since emerging from Mnet’s I-LAND 2: N/a in July 2024 and making their official debut in November 2024, MAI, BANG JEE MIN, KOKO, RYU SA RANG, CHOI JUNG EUN and JEONG SAE BI have steadily built a profile that extends beyond the usual expectations placed on a rookie act. Their catalog has expanded from their 2024 debut EP ‘N/a’ through releases including ‘SIGN’, ‘BEEP’, ‘Not Just Pretty’, and ‘SET THE TEMPO’, while their latest promotional cycle has carried them toward their first major concert tour.

    Now, izna are preparing to take another significant step outward.

    The group’s ‘2026-2027 izna Concert Tour: WHO DAT GIRL?’ opens with two Seoul shows at Olympic Hall on September 19 and 20 before continuing with multiple stops, including Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Fukuoka, Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. The Manila stop is scheduled for October 17 at the EGM Hall of the EVM Convention Center in Quezon City.

    For a group still in the early stages of its career, the tour is more than a collection of dates. It is a chance to test the scale of what izna can be.

    “I hope this tour will be remembered as ‘the first step in introducing izna to a wider world,’” MAI tells Philippine Concerts. “Since this is our first concert tour, I want it to be the beginning of many more opportunities for us to share our music and performances in more places.”

    That idea, of expansion without losing the identity being built at home, runs through nearly every part of izna’s current chapter.

    From debutants to a team with their own rhythm

    The group’s recent “METRONOME” era arrived after what MAI describes as a long period of preparation, one that carried particular weight for the members.

    “The ‘METRONOME’ promotion held great significance for us, as it was our comeback after a long period of preparation,” she says. “We worked especially hard on it because we considered it so important.”

    The most meaningful changes, however, may not be immediately visible in a music video or a perfectly synchronized performance.

    “While preparing, we had many conversations and became even closer,” MAI says. “I think it was a period when we were able to grow together as well.”

    Compared with the group that first stepped onto the K-pop stage, izna now understands one another with greater ease, she says, a development that has strengthened their chemistry and made them feel more relaxed as performers.

    That growing familiarity matters in a genre where cohesion can be as crucial as individual talent.

    BANG JEE MIN puts it simply: A group can execute the same choreography, but if its members are not expressing the same idea, it will not feel like one team.

    “We communicate a lot, rely on each other, and keep working to stay in sync,” she says. “I think that’s how izna’s teamwork naturally comes through on stage.”

    For izna, then, precision is not merely technical. It is relational.

    The group’s polished performances are built on rehearsal, repetition, and synchronization, but CHOI JUNG EUN says perfection only means something when audiences can also feel the effort behind it.

    “Our fans really love our perfectly synchronized performances,” she says. “I feel like they appreciate not only what they see on stage but also the effort and process that went into creating it.”

    The goal, she adds, is not simply to arrive at a flawless result.

    “What matters most is giving our all to every performance and putting our hearts into everything we do on stage.”

    That distinction may explain where izna currently sits in the increasingly crowded landscape of K-pop’s newer generation. The group has the technical discipline expected of the genre, but the members speak about performance less as a demonstration of ability than as a shared experience.

    When RYU SA RANG considers how her understanding of artistry has changed, she returns to the stage.

    “When we perform our music, we try to convey the message of, ‘We’re having such a great time on stage, so we hope you enjoy it with us too,’” she says.

    It is a shift away from simply presenting a finished product.

    “We’re gradually realizing that rather than simply putting on a performance, it’s important to share the emotions and energy we’re feeling with the audience.”

    What does “izna” feel like?

    Every young group eventually has to answer a question that no branding strategy can fully solve: What makes us unmistakably us?

    For JEONG SAE BI, the answer is not necessarily found in one song or one visual concept.

    It happens in rehearsal.

    “I think I feel that way when we’re practicing together, laughing, and just being ourselves,” she says. “We all have very different charms, but when they all come together, I think they create a special synergy, almost like a rainbow.”

    That image is revealing. izna’s identity, at least as the members describe it, is not built around sameness. It is built around the combination of different personalities and strengths.

    “When I see that side of us on stage together,” JEONG SAE BI says, “I think, ‘This is what feels like izna.’”

    That growing sense of identity is also creating room for the members to explore their own creative instincts.

    KOKO recently experienced that firsthand while preparing for ‘WHO DAT GIRL?’, contributing choreography and ideas to part of the concert’s performance.

    “It was only a small part, but I really enjoyed being able to create something on my own,” she says. “It was a great experience that helped me discover a new side of myself as well.”

    It is the kind of development. A concert is not simply a longer version of a music-show stage. It asks artists to sustain an atmosphere, build momentum and reveal different dimensions of themselves over the course of an entire evening.

    For MAI, that possibility is one of the tour’s most exciting aspects.

    “What felt the most different to me was being able to show more songs and performances through one concert,” she says. “I’m really happy that it gives us a chance to show more of izna’s different sides.”

    The transition arrives at a moment when izna’s activities are continuing to widen. In addition to the first concert tour of ‘WHO DAT GIRL?’, the group has announced Japanese activities, including its Japan debut with the mini album ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’.

    The momentum is unmistakable. But izna’s members appear more interested in what comes next than in treating their early achievements as a finish line.

    A first meeting with Manila

    For naya in Manila, October 17 will mark the long-awaited first opportunity to see izna perform in Manila.

    And, according to JEONG SAE BI, the anticipation is mutual.

    “Manila has been one of the places all of our members have really wanted to visit,” she tells Philippine Concerts. “As soon as we heard it was included in the tour schedule, we were so happy and excited.”

    “Thinking about finally going there and meeting naya in Manila makes me even more thrilled,” she adds. “I can’t wait to see you!”

    Following the tour’s opening in Seoul and its Taipei stop, the Manila show will also give global audiences an unforgettable experience of izna’s first major concert tour.

    KOKO already knows one thing she wants to hear once the group finally takes the stage.

    “I really want to hear naya sing our songs out loud,” she says. “I think I’d be really happy to hear your voices from the stage.”

    JEONG SAE BI, meanwhile, hints that Manila may get a performance especially suited to the occasion.

    “There’s one performance that I think fits Manila’s bright and refreshing atmosphere really well,” she says, keeping the song title under wraps. “I think it’ll be even more fun and special when we get to share it with naya in Manila.”

    The group’s hopes for the night are tellingly modest and ambitious at the same time.

    CHOI JUNG EUN focuses on what happens after the lights come up and the concert is over.

    “If our fans leave the concert thinking, ‘I want to see it again,’ I think we’d be really satisfied,” she says.

    For an artist beginning a first concert tour, there may be no clearer measure of success.

    The stage, the fans and the next chapter

    K-pop moves quickly, particularly for artists introduced to the public through survival shows. The pressure to establish a distinct identity, maintain momentum, and grow beyond the narrative of debut can be relentless.

    izna is now entering the part of its story where those expectations become more complicated.

    The members are no longer speaking only about the dream of debuting. They are beginning to articulate what they want their performances to communicate, what kind of artists they hope to become, and why they continue to move forward.

    For BANG JEE MIN, the answer begins with naya.

    “Everything we’ve been able to do so far has been thanks to naya, and so much of what we do is for them as well,” she says. “That’s why I think naya is always our biggest motivation to keep moving forward.”

    Years from now, RYU SA RANG hopes the group will be remembered not only for the scale of its achievements but for its relationship with the work itself.

    “I hope we’ll be remembered as artists who love and value the stage more than anyone, and who are truly good at what we do,” she says.

    More importantly, she wants that sincerity to be visible.

    “I hope people can see that we put our whole hearts into every stage and are able to share that sincerity with our fans.”

    It is a philosophy that runs through izna’s current moment. Their chemistry has become more instinctive. Their individual creative interests are beginning to surface. Their stages are becoming larger, their itinerary more global and their audience more expansive.

    Yet the members repeatedly return to the same ideas: communication, trust, enjoyment and the desire to share something real with the people in front of them.

    JEONG SAE BI imagines that the members preparing for debut would probably be surprised by just how close they have become.

    “We’re so close now that we can tell what the others are thinking just by looking at each other,” she says. Her message to the younger versions of themselves would be simple: “Don’t worry! You’re going to become so close!”

    Perhaps that is what makes this particular chapter feel important.

    izna is still a young group, but WHO DAT GIRL? represents a transition from proving that they can stand onstage to discovering what they can build from it. Their first major tour is an opportunity to bring the songs, discipline, and chemistry developed in rehearsal rooms to audiences across borders.

    And when the group arrives in Manila next month, naya in Manila will become part of that story.

    For izna, the hope is that this is only the beginning.

    The metronome is already moving. The next measure is waiting.

    Organized by Three Angles Production and co-organized by O.N worldwide, the ‘2026-2027 izna Concert Tour: WHO DAT GIRL? in MANILA’ takes place on October 17, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the EGM Hall, EVM Convention Center in Quezon City. Tickets and official event information are available via https://tapyourtickets.bigtix.io/en/events/2026-izna-concert-tour-who-dat-girl-in-manila/IZNAPH26.

  • Ben Affleck’s ‘Animals’ Heads to Netflix October 9

    Ben Affleck’s ‘Animals’ Heads to Netflix October 9

    There’s something quietly terrifying about the idea that power, money, and a carefully curated public image still can’t keep the people you love safe. That’s the cold truth at the center of Animals, the new crime thriller directed by and starring Ben Affleck, arriving on Netflix (and in select theaters) on October 9.

    Photo courtesy of Netflix


    Affleck plays Mark Kimball, an LA mayoral candidate living what looks like the perfect life. He’s got the ambitious career, the beautiful home, and a wife, Abigail (Kerry Washington), who stands beside him through the grind of politics. Then their son is kidnapped. Suddenly the campaign trail, the glossy photos, and the carefully measured speeches don’t matter. What matters is finding the ransom money, while most of their resources are already tied up in the race for office.


    What follows isn’t just a race against the clock. It’s a slow, bruising unraveling. Mark and Abigail are forced to make choices that dig into the private corners of their lives, the ones they never planned on anyone seeing. Secrets surface. Loyalties get tested. And the polished image of a political family starts to crack in ways that feel painfully human.


    The supporting cast only deepens the tension. Gillian Anderson, Steven Yeun, and others orbit the Kimballs as the situation spirals, each bringing their own quiet intensity to a story that never lets you fully settle. Affleck, who also co-wrote the script, directs with a steady hand, leaning into the dread of ordinary people pushed into extraordinary, ugly decisions rather than relying on flashy set pieces.


    Animals isn’t interested in easy heroes or tidy resolutions. It’s about what happens when the safety net you thought you had turns out to be thinner than you realized, and the people closest to you become the ones who have to decide how far they’re willing to go.


    It lands on Netflix October 9. One night, one decision after another, and a family that may never look the same.

  • Vivaoke Brings OPM Karaoke to a New Digital Platform

    Vivaoke Brings OPM Karaoke to a New Digital Platform

    Viva launches all-OPM karaoke app with classic hits, current favorites, recording features, and in-app scoring.

    Karaoke has long been part of the Filipino soundtrack, turning birthdays, fiestas, family gatherings, and spontaneous nights with friends into impromptu concerts. Now, Viva is bringing that familiar pastime into the digital age with Vivaoke, a karaoke app built around an all-OPM music catalog.

    Launched on September 16, Vivaoke gives subscribers access to a wide selection of Filipino songs they can sing along to anytime, anywhere. The app allows users to record their performances, save their sessions directly to their devices, and share their karaoke moments on social media.

    Developed by Viva Communications, Inc. in partnership with Viva Music Group, Vivaoke offers subscription plans designed to make premium karaoke accessible. Plans start at PHP 99 per month, which includes unlimited access to the music library and uninterrupted streaming. A yearly subscription is available for PHP 949, representing savings of PHP 239 compared with the monthly rate.

    The catalog spans generations of OPM, pairing enduring classics with more recent hits. Among the featured tracks are “Bongga Ka ‘Day” by Hotdog, “Bituing Walang Ningning” by Sharon Cuneta, “Tala” by Sarah Geronimo, and “Hanap-Hanap” by James Reid and Nadine Lustre.

    Vivaoke also taps into the current OPM landscape, featuring songs such as “Sa Bawat Sandali” as popularized by Amiel Sol, “Miss Miss” by Rob Deniel, “Tibok” by Earl Agustin, “Libu-Libong Buwan (Uuwian)” by Kyle Raphael, “Panaginip” by Nicole, “Multo” by Cup of Joe, and “Isa Lang” by Arthur Nery.

    Beyond recording and playback, the app adds a competitive element to the familiar karaoke experience through an in-app scoring system, allowing users to see how they perform while singing their chosen tracks.

    Vivaoke is the latest addition to Viva’s growing portfolio of digital entertainment platforms, following Viva One, VMX, and Viva Movie Box. The company says the app will continue to evolve, with additional features in development and regular updates to its music catalog.

    For those ready to take their next OPM sing-along on the go, Vivaoke is available through the App Store and Google Play, with more information at Vivaoke.

  • PRESS HIT PLAY LEVELS UP WITH “LEVEL V” 5TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

    PRESS HIT PLAY LEVELS UP WITH “LEVEL V” 5TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

    P-pop group marks five years with its biggest anniversary show yet at the Music Museum.

    Five years into their P-pop journey, Press Hit Play is ready to hit a new level.

    The group will celebrate its fifth anniversary with “LEVEL V,” a milestone concert happening Friday, September 18, at the Music Museum, bringing together five years of music, performances, and the fans who have been part of their story from the start.

    More than a look back, the concert is positioned as a live snapshot of how far Press Hit Play has come—and a glimpse of where the group is headed next. After years of honing their craft onstage and building a community around their music, the members are marking the occasion with a show designed to put that growth front and center.

    For Press Hit Play, five years in the industry represent more than a number. Behind every performance are hours of rehearsals, creative work, challenges, and the constant push to become better artists. “LEVEL V” brings those years of work into one room, giving fans the opportunity to experience the group in its most immediate setting: live and onstage.

    The concert’s concept draws from gateways, portals, and different sectors, inviting audiences into the world of Press Hit Play. The idea extends beyond the traditional concert setup, turning each sector into part of the experience and giving fans a place within the celebration.

    That concept also reflects where the group finds itself at the five-year mark: between everything it has already built and the possibilities still ahead.

    For longtime fans, “LEVEL V” offers a chance to revisit the music and memories that have defined the past five years while experiencing them in a new setting. For those discovering Press Hit Play along the way, the anniversary concert offers a closer look at the group through the energy and chemistry of a live performance.

    Ultimately, the night is about bringing Press Hit Play and its audience into the same space after five years of making music together—one stage, one crowd, and one new level.

    The Press Hit Play “LEVEL V” 5th Anniversary Concert takes place Friday, September 18, at the Music Museum. Tickets are available through bit.ly/4ptFvMt.

    Five years got Press Hit Play here. On September 18, they hit play on what comes next.

  • 6cyclemind Is Still Soundtracking Generations After 25 Years

    6cyclemind Is Still Soundtracking Generations After 25 Years

    The OPM veterans celebrate 25 years with a homecoming concert that brings generations of fans together.

    There was no need for a lyric sheet. When 6cyclemind launched into “Magsasaya,” the crowd at Eton Centris Activity Center already knew what to do. Voices rose with the band, turning the opening song of its 25th anniversary concert into a reminder of just how long these songs have lived with Filipino listeners.

    On Saturday, September 12, generations of fans gathered in Quezon City to celebrate a band whose music has endured through changing trends, shifting lineups, and two and a half decades of the Philippine music industry. For one night, the years between them seemed to disappear, replaced by songs everyone knew by heart.

    The celebration moved through some of 6cyclemind’s most familiar material, including “Paba,” “Biglaan,” “Prinsesa,” and “No Rewind,” each met with enthusiastic sing-alongs from the crowd.

    Photos by AJ Alcantara

    But the anniversary show was not simply a look back. Its collaborations highlighted the band’s continuing reach across generations, with Rye Sarmiento taking over vocal duties for “Gaya Ng Noon,” while Bino of Sunkissed Lola joined 6cyclemind for “I” and “Pasilyo.”

    The Dawn’s Jet Pangan brought his presence to “Upside Down” and “Iisang Bangka Tayo,” while Gigi De Lana joined the band for “Bonggahan” and “Sige.” The latter also featured a surprise appearance by Chuck Isidro, a former 6cyclemind member and producer of the band’s forthcoming album.

    The concert also looked ahead. 6cyclemind performed new material from its upcoming album, including “Hithit Buga,” “Di Na Babalik,” “Nagbago,” and “Huling Pagkakataon,” offering fans a glimpse of the band’s next chapter. They also revisited staples such as “Alapaap,” “Kasalanan,” and “Sandalan.”

    Even the rain could not stop the celebration. As showers fell over the venue, fans stayed on to sing and dance with the band, adding an unexpected but fitting detail to a night built around music and familiarity.

    Photos by AJ Alcantara

    The anniversary celebration extended beyond the stage. The first 100 attendees received exclusive 6cyclemind anniversary shirts and had the opportunity to meet the band, while a videoke competition invited fans to put their own spin on OPM favorites, with the highest scorer taking home a cash prize.

    For 6cyclemind, the milestone was also an opportunity to recognize the people who have stayed with them throughout their journey.

    “We are very thankful sa lahat na nandyan pa rin para sa amin: from our management, fans, and brands that continue to support us. Andito na kami sa age na we are enjoying the fruits of our labor. We are lucky and grateful na, sa dami ng nangyari sa banda, natawid namin lahat ng ’to,” the band said in a press statement.

    That journey began with bar gigs and small events before expanding to festivals, provincial shows, corporate performances, and stages across the country. Through lineup changes and shifts in the music industry, 6cyclemind has continued to perform and evolve while holding on to the identity that made its music resonate with Filipino listeners.

    Their catalog has become a collection of songs that audiences return to across different chapters of their lives. Some arrive with memories attached, while others continue to find new listeners discovering the band for the first time.

    Now, with a new album produced by Isidro on the way, 6cyclemind is looking ahead.

    “The excitement is always there,” says manager and sixth member Darwin Hernandez. “Para pa din kaming bago na nag-promote ng kanta namin to a new audience.”

    After 25 years, 6cyclemind may have a catalog full of familiar songs, but the band is still playing them for listeners who are hearing them for the first time.

    Photo by AJ Alcantara

  • BURNOUT SYNDROMES Fly High in their Debut Concert in the Philippines

    BURNOUT SYNDROMES Fly High in their Debut Concert in the Philippines

    Japanese rock band BURNOUT SYNDROMES, composed of vocalist and guitarist Kazuumi Kumagai, bassist Taiyu Ishikawa, and drummer Takuya Hirose, enthralled the crowd with their high-energy show at the Crossroad Center in Quezon City. Marking the 10th anniversary of their major label debut, the concert showcased a powerful 16-song setlist. It was the band’s first time in Manila, and judging from the extremely warm reception they received here, it seems like it would not be the last. 

    BURNOUT SYNDROMES have made their mark in the anime community by producing high-octane, melodic rock tracks that became defining soundtracks to their respective series titles. In 2016, the band made their soaring debut with “FLY HIGH!!” which served as the opening theme of the 2nd season of the highly popular anime Haikyu!!, eventually becoming a fan favorite. From then on, their Haikyu!! connection flourished even more when their songs “Hikariare” and “PHOENIX” became the soundtracks for the show’s subsequent seasons. Maintaining this momentum, they also contributed tracks for Gintama (2018), Dr. Stone (2019), Super HxEros (2020) and Those Snow White Notes (2021). 

    In turn, the Filipino anime fan community did their part as they filled the venue for the band’s first ever concert in Manila. Many were decked in their favorite team’s volleyball jerseys, holding out the mini character plushies and figures. Hours before the show, the band held photo-ops as well as a hi-touch session with selected fans. 

    Opening act fuyu, a newly formed pop duo comprised of Fumiya and Yukan, heated things up with their mellow tracks like “Iikot ang Mundo”, “Dream Together” and “Sabay”. Hailing from Japan, the duo entertained the crowd with their friendly banter, and their sweet mix of Filipino-English- Japanese songs.

    When BURNOUT SYNDROMES entered the stage, the first thing that Taiyu did was to raise his hands, motioning for the audience to stand up. People were more than delighted to do so, and they remained standing until the end of the show. Wasting no time, the band played instant fire-starters, including “BLIZZARD”, “Hikariare” and “Good Morning World!”.

    “So empty your heart, ride the wind and get a running start. Hop! Step! Jump!”

    The best way to describe BURNOUT SYNDROMES’ concert in Manila was through these precise lyrics from “FLY HIGH!!”. The proper way to enjoy their music was to let go of your inhibitions, and just let the music flow through you. Rightfully, the Filipino crowd hit the mark as they sang along and jumped to the songs. 

    For their part, the trio’s synergy was astounding. Kazuumi Kumagai’s intense vocals soared and softened to the melodies, his riffs never faltering one bit. He took the time to speak to the crowd, if only to introduce a song or thank them. Bassist Taiyu Ishikawa was designated as the official Hype Man, pumping up the crowd’s excitement by constantly spurring on their cheers, and sometimes translating Kazuumi’s words. Drummer Takuya Hirose was a beaming presence at the back, keeping the heavy beats flowing from start to finish. The three of them relished the crowd’s overwhelming energy, and it was palpable in the way their music reverberated throughout the venue. 

    BURNOUT SYNDROMES’ diverse musicality was also put on a much-appreciated spotlight. Except for their anime bangers, they have an incredible discography. “Mt. Wakakusa Starmine” highlighted the band’s creative take on the fireworks festival, infused with traditional Japanese instruments. “Elevator Girl” was a gripping narrative/rant song that was propelled by its angsty rap-like delivery. “Highscoregirl” emphasized their playful side as it incorporated the classic arcade elements like the infamous cheat code (up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start). Their lighter, more tender side showed in “Kimi no Tame no Music” (Music for You). They even have EDM-infused tracks in the form of “BABEL” and “ORIGAMI”.

    To commemorate their 10th year debut anniversary, the band recently released a special cover album for Haikyu! on Haikyu Day, August 19. Taiyu acknowledged the anime’s great contribution to their musical career and called it the best volleyball anime ever. Filipino fans were in for a surprise as they played two songs from the album which were SPYAIR’s “Imagination” and Tacica’s “Leo”.

    It wasn’t until near the end of the set when they played their number-one hit (thus far) “FLY HIGH!!” which Kazuumi called their trademark song. As if to fuel the crowd’s already off-the-charts excitement, the screen started flashing the Romanized lyrics. It was a wonderful moment when the entire crowd turned into a loud karaoke choir as the orange and yellow confetti rained down. 

    BURNOUT SYNDROMES capped off the evening with the optimistic “Good Morning (New) World!” and with a promise to come back soon. 

    Special thanks to Wish Us Luck Entertainment!

    by Sandra Mae Laureano

  • 7 Flavors, 7 Vibes: P-Pop girl group XONARA finds their flavor vibe with Bonchon

    7 Flavors, 7 Vibes: P-Pop girl group XONARA finds their flavor vibe with Bonchon

    What’s your vibe? Bold and fearless? Sweet with a little spice? Cool and effortlessly chill? Whatever it is, XONARA says there’s a Bonchon flavor to match.

    Rising P-Pop girl group XONARA serves their own flavor to the table in the latest campaign ad as the newest ambassadors of Bonchon, the original Korean chicken favorite of Filipinos. This collaboration brings together Bonchon’s signature Korean-inspired taste and XONARA’s fresh P-pop energy, encouraging individuality through flavor and self-expression among the young Filipinos.

    In their latest Bonchon EAT 7 video ad, the seven-member group shows off what makes each of them uniquely XONARA. From Eurekah’s bold creativity and Tin’s go-getter spirit, to Dominique’s fearless confidence, Ella’s elegant authenticity, Namie’s bubbly charm, Megumi’s unapologetic expressive flair, and Lei’s captivating energy, each member brings a different flavor to the group and now, to Bonchon.

    Just as XONARA embraces individuality through their music, style, and personalities, Bonchon serves up seven distinct Korean-inspired chicken flavors, including the iconic sweet and savory Soy Garlic, rich and cheesy Snow Cheese, aromatic Crunchy Garlic, to the bold kick of Spicy, refreshing Honey Citrus, sweet and spicy Byn Bonchon Yangnyeom, and extra-crispy goodness of Golden Crunch, giving everyone the freedom to find a tasty vibe that perfectly fits their mood and cravings.

    “XONARA embodies the individuality, energy, and confidence of today’s young Filipinos. Their distinct personalities make them a natural fit for Bonchon’s seven flavors, each offering a unique taste for every craving. We’re excited to have XONARA bring this to life and inspire our consumers to explore, choose, and own the flavor that matches their mood, vibe, and individuality,” said Scott Tan, Managing Director of Bonchon Philippines.

    Bringing together XONARA’s unapologetic P-Pop energy and Bonchon’s signature flavors, the collaboration invites young Filipinos to express themselves, explore new flavors, and, most importantly, match their vibe with a Bonchon flavor that feels unmistakably them.

    Catch XONARA’s latest EAT 7 video ad here and discover which of the seven flavors matches your vibe.

    For more information and updates, follow Bonchon Chicken Philippines on Facebook, @bonchon_ph on Instagram, and @bonchon_ph on TikTok.

  • So Ji Sub Returns to Manila with ‘Soulmate The Timeless’ Tour this November

    So Ji Sub Returns to Manila with ‘Soulmate The Timeless’ Tour this November

    Actor So Ji Sub has announced an upcoming meeting with his global fans.

    His agency 51K stated, “So Ji Sub will hold 2026 SO JI SUB ASIA FANMEETING TOUR [Soulmate The Timeless], visiting 5 cities across Asia including Manila on November 5 at the New Frontier Theater. ‘Soulmate The Timeless’ carries the meaning of wanting to remain together, unchanged through time, with the fans who have long supported So Ji Sub. He plans to create special memories by closely connecting with fans — sharing moments from his works, behind-the-scenes stories, and a variety of stage performances.

    This Asia tour carries even greater meaning as So Ji Sub, who has recently proven his hot popularity both in Korea and abroad through the success of his work, will be meeting his global fans. He recently played the lead character Manager Kim in the drama ‘Agent Kim Reactivated’, leading it to blockbuster success with a peak viewership rating of 23%. The show was also a big hit overseas, ranking No. 1 in Netflix’s Global Non-English TV Shows category and entering the Top 10 in 73 countries. As this is the first time he’s meeting his Asian fans in person after this big success, local fans are getting even more excited.

    Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets happening on Wednesday, September 16, from 12PM to 11:59PM. Check out priceless.com/music for details.

    Meanwhile, Live Nation PH members can secure tickets during the exclusive Live Nation PH Pre-sale on September 17, from 12pm to 11:59pm. Visit www.livenation.ph for free membership sign up and pre-sale access.

    Tickets to public will be available on Friday, September 18, from 12PM via ticketnet.com.ph and its outlets.

    For ticket purchases, visit TicketNet at https://www.ticketnet.com.ph. For more information and event updates, visit Live Nation Philippines at https://www.livenation.ph/.

  • ANGELA KEN EXPLORES NEW MUSICAL GROUND IN FIRST SOLO CONCERT!

    ANGELA KEN EXPLORES NEW MUSICAL GROUND IN FIRST SOLO CONCERT!

    Kapamilya singer-songwriter Angela Ken takes audiences on a musical journey of exploration in her first-ever solo concert, “Panahon na Natin,” happening on October 18 (Sunday) at the New Frontier Theater.

    Beyond her signature sound, audiences can expect Angela to showcase a fresh and different side of her artistry in the concert.

    “I am bringing the element of exploration,” she teased. “Discovering ‘Panahon’ EP, to be very honest. Doon ako bumalik. ‘Di ko naman masabi na I was lost, but maybe because I explored a lot of stuff. Because of that, ang dami ko pang gusto from my music na hindi pa nailabas from ‘Ako Naman Muna’ since it’s been six years naman na rin.”

    The concert, to be directed by John Prats, will be a different kind of intimate and personal, dedicated to Angela’s followers, whom she fondly calls Angels. 

    “It’s a different kind of personal; it’s a different kind of intimate. I want them to feel na nagkakaabutan lang tayong lahat,” she said. “Yung difference nito is yung lalim na gusto naming mensahe sa bawat set, sa bawat performance, sa bawat guest.” 

    Fans can also look forward to Angela’s live performance of the tracks from her “Panahon” EP, released under Tarsier Records, which she described as showing the timelines of one’s life. 

    “Those six songs, it will show you the other side of your life. Like example, si ‘simula ngayon,’ it talks about kung ano ka na ngayon, yung parang pinagtibay ka na ng panahon. ‘kahapon’ talks about the reality na minsan talaga wala kang magagawa pag gusto mo ang isang tao. ‘Pwede Bang Mamaya?’ talks about how we can prolong something with this person, with this person kasi sobrang saya. ‘baka bukas’ is a song full of hope na lahat tayo meron at meron na baka bukas sa buhay.” explained the ABS-CBN Music artist. 

    Angela is likewise set to perform her upcoming single, “tayo lang,” at the concert. The first song she ever wrote back in 2018 is finally dropping on music streaming platforms on September 25 (Friday). 

    “Ngayon ko pa lang siya ilalabas nang kumpleto. There are changes sa lyrics niya, there are tweaks. Pinagtibay rin siya ng panahon,” she said.  

    Tickets to “Angela Ken: Panahon na Natin” are still available on Ticketnet outlets and via ticketnet.com.ph. For more details, follow Tarsier Records on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

    For other updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

  • Bagets The Musical scores six Gawad Buhay citations!

    Bagets The Musical scores six Gawad Buhay citations!

    Bagets The Musical, the stage adaptation of the iconic 1984 Filipino coming-of-age film, received six citations in the first round of the 17th Gawad Buhay Awards, recognizing members of the cast for their performances in the musical.

    Noel Comia Jr., who portrayed Gilbert; Milo Cruz, who played Tonton; KD Estrada, who took on the role of Arnel; and Sam Shoaf, who played Topee, were cited for Male Lead Performance in a Musical. Yani Lopez received a citation for Female Featured Performance in a Musical for her portrayal of Rose, while Gie Onida was cited for Male Featured Performance in a Musical for his role as Erpats.

    The Gawad Buhay Awards citations determine which productions, performers, and production elements are eligible for consideration in the final nominations for the 2027 ceremonies. The citations were deliberated upon by an independent jury composed of theater practitioners, journalists, reviewers, and academics.

    Bagets The Musical was presented by Newport World Resorts, in association with VIVA Communications, The Philippine STAR, and staged by PETA Plus. The musical ran from January to March 2026.

    The citations mark another milestone for the partnership, which continues with its second major theatrical production, Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical. The new Filipino musical brings the timeless hits of Hotdog band to the Newport Performing Arts Theater beginning September 18, 2026.

    For more information on Newport World Resorts, visit www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts 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.

  • Back-to-back concerts and comedies coming to Newport World Resorts!

    Back-to-back concerts and comedies coming to Newport World Resorts!

    September and October are packed with reasons to catch a show at Newport World Resorts. Nyoy Volante, Nina, Alex Calleja, The CompanY and Neocolours, and Morgan Jay fill the next two months from soulful acoustic nights and OPM nostalgia to homegrown stand-up and international musical comedy.

    360° LIVE featuring Nyoy VolanteSeptember 19
    Nyoy Volante gets things started on September 19 as he headlines the second installment of 360° LIVE at Bar 360. Known for his acoustic pop sound, Nyoy has given OPM listeners favorites such as “Nasaan,” “You’re My You,” and “Time Machine.” This time, audiences can catch him for a soulful acoustic night at Bar 360. A minimum food and beverage consumable of PHP2,000 applies upon entry.

    NINA XX: The Repeat September 24

    On September 24, prepare to sing along as Nina returns to the Newport Performing Arts Theater with NINA XX: The Repeat. After the success of NINA XX: The Anniversary Celebration last May, the Diamond Soul Siren is bringing the show back with new additions. Fans have another chance to hear her iconic songs such as “Jealous,” “Someday,” “I Don’t Want to Be Your Friend,” “Love Moves in Mysterious Ways,” and “Through the Fire” live on the big stage. Joining Nina for the repeat are Christian Bautista, Top Suzara, and Thor Dulay.

    HAPPY 4 ALL! A Birthday Comedy Special October 7

    Then comes October, and the laughs arrive first. Comedian Alex Calleja throws a hilarious birthday celebration with HAPPY 4 ALL! A Birthday Comedy Special on October 7. Together with The Comedy Crew, Calleja takes everyday Pinoy experiences, relationships, family, and all the wonderfully familiar chaos in between and turns them into a night of laugh-out-loud stand-up. The performance will also be recorded for a special, giving the audience one more reason to bring their biggest laughs. Tickets for HAPPY 4 ALL! A Birthday Comedy Special is available at all Ticketworld outlets.

    Pakisabi Na Lang, Tuloy Pa Rin! October 8

    The CompanY and Neocolours share the concert stage for the first time in Pakisabi Na Lang, Tuloy Pa Rin! on October 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Philippines’ premier vocal group The CompanY, composed of Annie Quintos, Moy Ortiz, OJ Mariano, and Sweet Plantado, brings the harmonies and songs fans have kept close through the years. Their catalog includes “Everlasting Love,” “Muntik Na Kitang Minahal,” “Now That I Have You,” and “Pakisabi Na Lang.” Neocolours adds another wave of nostalgia with OPM classics that still hit the same way today, including “Tuloy Pa Rin,” “Maybe,” “Hold On,” “Say You’ll Never Go,” and “Kasalanan Ko Ba.”

    The Goofy Guy Tour October 14

    American comedian and musician Morgan Jay unleashes his well-loved stand-up, music, improvisation, and audience interaction at Newport Performing Arts Theater for the first time. The sold-out The Goofy Guy Tour performances are set for October 14 at 7PM and 9:30PM. His playful crowd work makes audiences part of the performance, creating unscripted moments that can only be experienced live.

    Music, nostalgia, comedy, or a little bit of everything, the next live experience is always around the corner at Newport World Resorts.

    For more information on Newport World Resorts, visit www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

  • Manila Gets Malcolm Todd on November 27

    Manila Gets Malcolm Todd on November 27

    Fresh off the massive streaming takeover of his new album Do That Again, the LA-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist has just locked in his 2026 Asia Tour dates. For Filipino fans, he lands on November 27 at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City.


    The tour, promoted by Live Nation, kicks off November 23 in Taipei and winds through Tokyo, Singapore, Seoul, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur before wrapping December 9. Manila sits right in the middle of that run, one of the biggest rooms Todd has played yet.


    Do That Again isn’t just another album drop. All 13 tracks hit the U.S. Spotify chart in the same week. The project climbed to No. 5 on Apple Music’s Top 200 Albums chart, and Todd now has 16 songs charting in the States, one of the strongest streaming moments of his career so far. The album also debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and has already racked up hundreds of millions of global streams.


    Rolling Stone gave it four stars, praising the way Todd threads classic songcraft and that very online sensibility through a modern R&B filter. Think Paul Simon meeting Prince’s sensual minimalism, filtered through a 22-year-old who writes like he’s still figuring life out in real time.


    He’s been everywhere lately: debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon the night before the album dropped (performing “I Saw Your Face” for the first time plus the Platinum-certified “Earrings”), Jimmy Kimmel, Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, Camp Flog Gnaw. He even starred in Gap’s Fall 2026 “Denim On Your Own” campaign with Inde Navarrette, set to Robyn’s “Dancing on Your Own.”


    Last year he sold 145,000 tickets across three continents. This year the demand only got louder, especially after he jumped on stage with Don Toliver at Madison Square Garden when “Chest Pain (I Love)” found a second life through Toliver’s “E85.”


    Manila tickets: here’s how it works


    Artist presale: Tuesday, September 22, 12PM–11:59PM local time


    Live Nation PH members exclusive presale: Wednesday, September 23, 12PM–11:59PM (sign up free at livenation.ph)


    General public sale: Thursday, September 24, 12PM via TicketNet and outlets


    Ticket tiers at New Frontier Theater range from Floor Standing A at ₱5,500 down to Balcony 2 at ₱2,500. VIP packages are available too, the Ultimate Experience (₱18,900) includes meet-and-greet, pre-show acoustic set, signed poster and exclusive merch. Acoustic Experience and Early Entry options are also on the table.


    For a lot of Filipino fans who’ve been streaming “Earrings,” “Roommates,” “Sweet Boy,” and the new Do That Again cuts on loop, this is the first real chance to see him live in a proper theater setting.


    If you’ve been waiting for the moment Malcolm Todd’s internet-era songwriting finally steps onto a Manila stage, mark November 27. The album’s out now. The tickets go on sale next week. And for one night in Quezon City, the “do that again” energy is coming straight to us.

  • Acclaimed lawyer-comedian Ed Chico headlines pre-Christmas show at Newport World Resorts

    Acclaimed lawyer-comedian Ed Chico headlines pre-Christmas show at Newport World Resorts

    (Manila, Philippines) Accomplished lawyer and acclaimed stand-up comedian Edward Chico is set to once again bring his unmistakable brand of biting humor and witty commentary in “Laugh Control: The Atty. Ed Chico Show,” his upcoming pre-Christmas show at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

    Happening this December 17, the show promises to be an unforgettable night of smart, irreverent, and yes, “unimpeachable” Filipino comedy covering a wide array of topics including politics, current affairs, and even Chico’s own legal profession which he is also known to tackle in his own self-deprecating fashion.

    Chico has developed a reputation for combining his experiences as a lawyer with spot-on observations about the hot issues of the day particularly those that are currently trending on social media. He has carved his own niche in the local comedy scene, with a style that underscores his own brand of point-of-view humor.

    His recent performances have continued to attract audiences with material covering everything from his upbringing and experiences as a lawyer to the usually absurd realities of Philippine society and governance.

    Impressed with Chico’s recent show, fellow lawyer and former COMELEC Commissioner Gregorio Larrazabal wrote in the Manila Bulletin that Chico’s take on Philippine politics is one of the wittiest he’s heard.

    “His takes were direct hits on certain topics, but the way it was delivered, didn’t you feel like he’s better than you. Nor does it alienate; rather, it reminds them of the frailties of their often carefully crafted realities, built inside an echo chamber,” Larrazabal further noted.

    Rather than simply delivering punchlines, Chico aims to make audiences think—and then laugh at what they have just realized. His background in law and political commentary gives his comedy an unusual perspective, allowing him to find humor in subjects that are often considered too serious for the stage.

    In an interview with Abogado.com.ph, Chico acknowledged that making people laugh while also trying to send a relevant message is never easy.

    “Sa comedy in general, pag gusto mo magpatawa, madali. Pero if you want to make a statement, you want to get across certain points, mahirap siya i-combine. Kailangan mo ng discipline para gawing nakakatawa,” he pointed out.

    Coming on the heels of the Yuletide season, Chico’s much-anticipated upcoming show is expected to highlight new material, personal anecdotes, social commentary, and his own trademark wit on the viral issues of the day.

    Presented by VIP Access Media Productions and Lakbay Productions, “Laugh Control: The Atty. Ed Chico Show” is happening on December 17, 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Tickets will be available starting September 30, 2026 at 12PM. For ticket information, visit https://www.newportworldresorts.com/,  https://ticket2me.net/  or call (+63)917 1797688 for more details.

  • Angela Muji Marks Solo Return with “Is It Over,” the Emotional OST for Dating Alys Perez

    Angela Muji Marks Solo Return with “Is It Over,” the Emotional OST for Dating Alys Perez

    In a recent press conference marking the release of her solo single “Is It Over,” Angela Muji walked in with the kind of quiet, refreshing energy that makes you immediately root for her. Soft-spoken yet bright-eyed, the rising Viva artist came across as genuinely nice, someone who listens carefully, answers thoughtfully, and treats everyone in the room with easy respect. No flashy airs, just a fresh presence that feels both grounded and full of possibility.

    The single, an official soundtrack for the Viva One series Dating Alys Perez, is an emotional track that digs into the ache of unanswered questions after a relationship starts to fray. Composed by series director Crisanto Aquino (with Decky Jazer Palomares Margaja), it captures the lingering confusion and heartbreak that Alys Perez feels following her breakup with Drake Palma (played by Rabin Angeles). Angela’s delivery carries a haunting, drama-tinged quality that fans have compared to the emotional weight of Asian series theme songs. Lines like “What did I do to deserve this?” hit especially hard, tying neatly into her powerful breakdown scene in the series that even the director publicly praised.

    Angela has long had music in her blood, she was previously a member of the P-pop group Generation, but this marks her return to her solo recording chapter under Ivory Music. She spoke about returning to singing with a mix of excitement and gratitude, noting how the song lets her channel the same vulnerability she brings to Alys. The official music video is already out, and the track is streaming on Spotify and other platforms, giving listeners a direct line into that raw feeling of wanting closure that never quite arrives.

    Naturally, the conversation turned to Dating Alys Perez, the ongoing Viva One hit that continues the story from the popular Wattpad-adapted Seducing Drake Palma. Angela plays the titular Alys with a sincerity that has drawn both local and international viewers. She shared how the role has challenged and stretched her as an actress, especially in those heavier emotional moments, while the on-screen chemistry with Rabin Angeles (their loveteam known as RabGel) keeps fans invested. She spoke warmly about the series without overhyping it, just clear appreciation for the work, the team, and the chance to grow.

    When asked about future dreams beyond the screen and the studio, Angela’s answer was characteristically humble and hopeful. She said she’d love to hold a solo fancon or even a solo concert someday.

    The idea clearly lights her up: a chance to connect directly with the “Geluvs” who have supported her journey from P-pop member to leading actress and now solo artist. It wasn’t framed as a demand or a guarantee, just a sincere wish, delivered with the same polite, respectful tone she brought to the rest of the conference.

    Throughout the presscon, what stood out most wasn’t just the projects. It was Angela herself. Fresh-faced and approachable, she comes across as the kind of person who still says “thank you” a lot, makes eye contact, and seems to genuinely value the people around her. In an industry that can move fast and loud, her niceness and quiet respect feel like a breath of fresh air.

    With “Is It Over” now out in the world, Dating Alys Perez continuing on Viva One, and more projects on the horizon (including film work), Angela Muji is steadily building something lasting. And if her presscon demeanor is any indication, she’s doing it the right way, with talent, heart, and a whole lot of grace. Fans will be watching (and streaming) closely, hoping that solo stage dream becomes reality sooner rather than later.

  • Gateway Cineplex 18 joins country’s first-ever National Cinema Day

    Gateway Cineplex 18 joins country’s first-ever National Cinema Day

    Enjoy an exclusive lineup of foreign and local films for just P100 per ticket, for one day only

    Head over to Gateway Cineplex 18 this National Cinema Day on September 12 and experience your next big-screen thrill for less!

    Gateway Cineplex 18, the largest cineplex in the Philippines, is joining the country’s first-ever nationwide National Cinema Day on September 12, 2026, spearheaded by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP), where moviegoers can enjoy an exclusive lineup of titles for just P100 per ticket, available for one day only.

    As the largest cineplex in the country, Gateway Cineplex 18 will offer a wide selection of films across various genres, dedicating nine of its regular screens to a diverse roster of international and local titles curated for the occasion. With tickets for the special screenings priced at just P100 each, film aficionados and groups can plan an affordable movie marathon and take part in the one-day celebration.

    Meanwhile, standard operations at Wolfgang Premiere Lounges A, B, and C and the World Kitchens Platinum Cinema will remain uninterrupted, ensuring a premium experience for VIP patrons.

    During the celebration, moviegoers can also enjoy exclusive promos and special deals from various dining, retail, and entertainment establishments throughout the City of Firsts. Participating establishments include Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and DQ branches within Araneta City, which will offer a 10% discount to ticket holders; Sticky Sweet at World Kitchens, Gateway Mall 2, which will offer a 15% discount on select menu items to ticket holders; and Snaxx, which will offer a 10% discount on à la carte orders, among others.

    Spearheaded by CEAP and supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Film Academy of the Philippines, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and the Quezon City Screen Commission, the inaugural National Cinema Day serves as a unified effort to re-engage audiences with the movie theater experience. It aims to highlight the incomparable joy of collective viewing and encourage the public to return to theaters as a primary destination for culture and leisure.

    As the largest cineplex in the Philippines and a go-to entertainment hub for more than two decades, Gateway Cineplex 18 features state-of-the-art acoustic engineering, pristine digital projection, and ergonomic seating across its regular screens. These configurations are designed to provide moviegoers with a high-quality cinematic experience, delivering movies with exceptional visual and audio fidelity.

    “For generations, the cinema has held a sacred place in the heart of pop culture, providing a communal sanctuary where we collectively weep and cheer for the triumphs and trials of the human story on screen. While modern streaming offers convenience, nothing quite replicates the electric, shared magic of watching a story unfold on a towering silver screen in a darkened theater,” said Irene L. Jose, Chief Operating Officer of Uniprom, the entertainment arm of the Araneta Group.

    To view the full lineup, visit Gateway Cineplex 18’s official social media pages or log on to TicketNet. Moviegoers can also get in touch with TicketNet by calling its hotline at 8911-5555 or by sending an email to info@ticketnet.com.ph.