On a Sunday afternoon at Ayala Malls Feliz, the lively band and the sound of easy laughter filled the space as Mang Inasal brought Ihaw Fest 2026 to a close. The celebration centered on three simple but powerful ideas that have long defined the brand: Ihaw-Sarap, Unli-Saya, and the Filipino habit of coming together over a shared meal.
The moment I stepped into Ayala Malls Feliz, someone handed me a stick of free juicy, lambot pork barbecue. The meat was soft and smoky, still warm, and it set the tone right away. This was not a quiet mall event. It felt like a proper fiest
Ihaw Fest is now in its fourth year and it has grown into a series of experiences that bring customers closer to the food and to one another. At Ayala Malls Feliz, the final event felt more like a neighborhood fiesta that happened to include some of the country’s most familiar faces.
Coco Martin stood at the center of the gathering. The actor has represented Mang Inasal for a full decade, and the brand marked the milestone by honoring him in front of guests and fans. Ten years is a long stretch in the world of endorsements. Martin’s continued presence has given the brand a steady, recognizable face that many Filipinos associate with everyday meals and special occasions alike. The tribute recognized both his longevity and the genuine connection he has maintained with audiences who see him as one of their own.
Mang Inasal president Mike Castro presents a token of appreciation to Coco Martin for the latter’s decade-long partnership with the brand. They are joined by other Mang Inasal brand ambassadors (from left) Shuvee Etrata, Fyang Smith, Maris Racal, and Dimples Romana and MI Leadership Team members, Human Resources Head Me-Anne Lim, Mega Manila RBU Head Tes Lacuna, Marketing Head Mari Aldecoa, and Research and Development senior manager Myla Driz.
“Napakalaking bagay po sa akin na hanggang ngayon, nandiyan pa rin ang inyong tiwala. Maraming salamat po sa lahat ng ating mga kababayang patuloy na sumusuporta sa akin at sa Mang Inasal,” said Martin. (“I am truly grateful for the trust and support that Filipino consumers have given me and Mang Inasal through the years.”)
He was joined by fellow brand ambassadors Dimples Romana, Maris Racal, Shuvee Etrata, and Fyang Smith. The group moved easily among the crowd, performing on stage and posing for photos. Their presence turned the event into a star-studded afternoon without losing the casual, welcoming atmosphere that Mang Inasal events usually carry.
For customers who could not make it to Ayala Malls Feliz, the celebration extends through the end of the month. Until October 31, anyone who buys a Mang Inasal Family Fiesta bundle receives two free Palabok Solo servings. The offer gives more families a chance to stretch the meal a little further and to try the brand’s version of another classic Filipino favorite alongside the grilled chicken.
By the time the event wrapped up, the takeaway was straightforward. Mang Inasal used the final day of Ihaw Fest 2026 to remind people why they keep coming back: the taste of well-grilled chicken, the juicy lambot pork barbeque, the generous servings, and the simple comfort of sharing a table with others. Ten years with Coco Martin and four years of Ihaw Fest have given the brand a clear way of speaking to those instincts, and the afternoon at Ayala Malls Feliz showed they still know how to bring people together around them.
Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visithttps://manginasal.ph for the latest news,https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!
Filipino rap icon Gloc-9 celebrates his 29th anniversary in the music industry with “Mga Ani ni Gloc-9,” his first-ever vinyl record featuring 11 of his greatest hits from different record labels throughout his illustrious career. Produced by Universal Records, this limited-edition collection marks a significant milestone in the career of one of the Philippines’ most celebrated rap artists.
Known for his powerful storytelling, sharp lyricism, and ability to capture the realities of Filipino life through rap, Gloc-9 has built a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with generations of listeners. Throughout his 29-year journey, he has delivered songs that tackle social realities, personal struggles, and the Filipino experience, cementing his place as one of the country’s most respected lyricists.
“Mga Ani ni Gloc-9” brings together 11 of his most powerful tracks in a special vinyl collection that preserves his voice, stories, and legacy. Among the featured hits are “Sirena” featuring Ebe Dancel, “Magda” featuring Rico Blanco, and “Upuan” featuring Jeazell Grutas. These celebrated collaborations showcase Gloc-9’s ability to tell compelling stories through music while bringing together distinct voices that have helped make his songs memorable across generations.
True to its title, the limited-edition collection represents the fruits of Gloc-9’s years of hard work and artistry, gathering celebrated tracks from different labels in one special record. More than a collector’s item, it offers fans a tangible way to revisit the music that has helped shape his career and continues to leave a mark on Filipino music.
As Gloc-9 marks nearly three decades in the industry, “Mga Ani ni Gloc-9” serves as a tribute to his authenticity, lyrical excellence, and deep connection with the Filipino audience. It celebrates not only the songs that have defined his journey but also the stories and experiences that continue to make his music relevant across generations.
The air in Quezon City already carried that unmistakable early-December feeling even though October still had days left on the calendar. At SM North EDSA, the wait was over. On October 23, 2026, the mall officially lit up its most ambitious holiday centerpiece so far: Santa’s Air Express. This aviation-inspired wonderland has become the largest and most immersive Christmas display among the SM Supermalls covered this season.
At the heart of The Block Atrium stands a towering 60-foot giant Christmas tree, its branches heavy with lights and ornaments that catch every eye the moment you step into the space. Surrounding it is an Elf-dale and Santa’s Magical Land: a whimsical landscape of greenery, playful elf dwellings, mystical figures, cascading digital effects, and holiday characters that make the atrium feel less like a mall and more like a storybook that has come to life. Outside, the aviation theme continues with a floating airship element that signals Santa’s grand arrival from the skies. The combination of scale, detail, and pure festive energy has drawn crowds who linger for photos, walk slowly through the installations, and simply soak in the glow.
The Christmas Launch and Tree Lighting ceremony was led by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. She was joined by SM North EDSA Vice President for Operations Ms. Jocelyn Lapid-Clarino, District 1 Representative Arjo Atayde, Action Officer Ollie Belmonte, and local councilors. In her remarks, Mayor Belmonte captured the spirit of the night with a line that drew smiles and nods: “Sa Pilipinas, hindi uso ang soft launch.” The message was clear. When Christmas arrives in the Philippines, especially at a place like SM North EDSA, it arrives fully, brightly, and without hesitation. She and the other guests officially welcomed the season as the tree illuminated, turning the atrium into a beacon of holiday cheer for the city.
The evening was further lifted by live performances from P-Pop group AJAA and singer-songwriter Angela Ken. AJAA brought energetic holiday energy to the stage, while Angela Ken’s warm vocals (including her connection to SM’s seasonal soundtrack) added heartfelt moments that made the lighting ceremony feel personal and celebratory. Families, mallgoers, and fans sang along, danced, and created memories right there under the newly lit tree.
The full holiday display and festive experiences are open to the public from October 23, 2026, until January 10, 2027. Visitors can look forward to Santa meet-and-greet sessions, a holiday market for festive finds, photo opportunities throughout Santa’s Magical Land and Elf-dale, and the simple joy of wandering through a space designed for togetherness. SM North EDSA has long been a destination for holiday traditions. This year’s Santa’s Air Express raises the bar with its size, storytelling, and community feel.
Whether you are bringing kids to meet Santa, gathering the whole family for photos in front of the 60-foot tree, or just seeking that early taste of Christmas magic amid the usual mall routine, the invitation is simple: come aboard. The lights are on, the airship has landed, and the biggest Christmas display of the season is waiting at The Block Atrium. In a country that knows how to celebrate the holidays with full hearts and full volume, SM North EDSA’s Santa’s Air Express is already delivering exactly that, and it has only just begun.
A whole league of fighting dreamers rose to party the ninja way on October 20 as Japanese rock band FLOW held their first-ever solo concert in the Philippines at the SM North Skydome for NARUTO The Rock World Tour. Presented by PULP Live World, the sold-out concert featured songs that are solely from the soundtrack of the anime Naruto.
Composed of Kohshi and Keigo on vocals, Take on guitar, Got’s on bass, and Iwasaki on drums, FLOW have been together since 1998. Known for their anthemic, high-octane, rap-infused songs, they have steadily built a career in crafting distinctive anime-centric songs, with Naruto as their starting point. Eventually, they had also contributed tracks to popular anime series like Code Geass, Eureka Seven, Durarara!!, Seven Deadly Sins, and even Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.
FLOW’s concert here was special in many ways. Firstly, despite being frequent performers in several anime conventions over the years, this was their first time being in the full spotlight on the Philippine concert stage. Secondly, this also marked Got’s return to the Manila stage. (He was absent during the band’s performance at ANISAMA World in June 2025 due to health reasons.) Lastly and most importantly, NARUTO The Rock World Tour is the only one of its kind – the only one that is officially sanctioned by the franchise and the creator, Masashi Kishimoto. It’s most likely the only time that FLOW would ever do a global tour with a purely Naruto setlist.
ENTER: Naruto Uzumaki!
Created by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto made its manga debut in 1999 via Weekly Shounen Jump, its anime adaptation quickly following in 2002. The story follows the life of Naruto Uzumaki, a twelve-year-old orphan, living in Konoha, a hidden ninja village. He had one dream: to become Hokage, the leader and main protector of the land. To achieve that, he had to overcome mountains of hardships and adversaries, while continuously seeking to embrace the good in everyone and everything.
Since this all happened in the pre-streaming era, many counted on their local television to screen each episode. In the Philippines, it made its TV debut in Tagalog-dubbed language in 2004, taking up the late afternoon time slot on weekdays. Filipino millennials back then were easily hooked on the ninja theatrics, the unfettered humor, and the relatable heart-tugging (traumatic) moments. Like an unstoppable force, the same thing was happening in different parts of the world. It didn’t take long for it to be recognized as one of the most popular and influential anime ever.
Photos by PULP Live World and Joel H. Garcia
The Concert: The Fans’ Comeback
FLOW’s NARUTO The Rock felt like a collective return to the world of Naruto through its music, a moment for fans to immerse themselves in the memories they have with watching the show. It’s uncanny how the opening sequence of the concert was precisely that: the opening of Konoha’s gigantic main gates as the “Naruto Main Theme” played. Before the concert, some expressed their love by cosplaying – forehead protectors, jackets, Akatsuki and Kage cloaks, and Tobi’s mask were some of the most visible outfits. When the show started, fans then showed their love by screaming, jumping, and even dancing along to FLOW as they played their favorite Naruto hits.
The setlist is purely composed of songs from Naruto, with FLOW performing their originals, plus their striking covers for the others. When the brooding opening bass lines of “Haruka Kanata”, originally by Asian Kung-fu Generation, played, the entire crowd was immediately in an uproar, with fans singing and screaming along, word for word. This was followed by ORANGE RANGE’s “Viva★Rock”, the FLOW original “Re:member” and “Yura Yura” by Hearts Grow.
Adding great emotional whiplash to the concert were the on-screen visuals: the original anime snippets that matched the key events that each song represented. For “Haruka Kanata”, the preliminary rounds for the Chuunin Exams were playing. During “Hero’s Come Back”, the screen flashed the opening scenes of Naruto Shipuuden, including Team 7’s reunion after 2 years and the introduction of the Akatsuki. “Blue Bird” (by Ikimonogakari) and “CLOSER” (Joe Inoue) showed cuts of Asuma’s team going up against Hidan and Kakuzu. For “Silhouette” (by KANA-BOON), the Great Ninja War was put into focus.
FLOW’s vocalists, brothers Keigo and Kohshi, repeatedly thanked the crowd for their outpouring support. They said they hoped to come back to our country again soon. Guitarist Take had a flashier approach: near the end of the show, he came back as a human Christmas tree with the addition of pixel-style sunglasses. With a penlight in each hand, he induced a synchronized dance session with the audience. When it was done, Take thanked the crowd for the loud and warm welcome they had received.
The atmosphere took a more solemn tone when FLOW took a short break. A few moments later, the piano introduction played and the opening lines “I realize the screaming pain” broke into the Skydome. It was time for “Sign”, the piano ballad version of it, and for Naruto fans, they knew that something heavy was coming. The video highlighted some of the most heartbreaking parts of the series, such as Jiraiya’s battle with Pain, the Uchiha brothers’ final battle, and Pain’s invasion of Konoha. A somber silence took over the Skydome for a bit.
The crowd’s bursting energy returned a hundredfold when it was time for FLOW to perform “GO!!”. Kohshi shared that when they released the song in 2004, they felt uncertain about the future. Releasing “GO!!” as their first anime song opened a lot of opportunities for them, and they are grateful for it. They referred to the crowd as “people who love the same music, the same anime, the same Naruto”. “We are all friends, connected. We are a team,” he declared.
For the finale, FLOW did another round of “Sign”, the original band version, with the addition of the romanized lyrics on screen. As the last hurrah, the crowd gave it the loudest and most passionate sing-along and cheers, until all the members of the band left the stage.
FLOW’s NARUTO The Rock truly felt special for fans of the series. FLOW understood that and made one hell of a show with this tour. Their soundtrack contributions to Naruto, including their originals and their covers, are loved by the fans because they performed with the respect and passion that the longtime fans deserve. These are the same people who waited for new anime episodes and manga chapters, week by week, for years; the same people who started watching the show as kids and grew up as the story progressed. The concert gave them their proper moment to return and rock out with songs that had also grown with them.
ATEEZ are moving forward with the confidence of a group that has spent years building its own world. Their new pre-release single, “Drip,” sets the tone for the next chapter of their ongoing GOLDEN HOUR series, pairing the group’s hard-hitting musical identity with a declaration of momentum as they prepare for their 15th EP.
Released on October 23 through Sony Music Korea and RCA Records, “Drip” leans into a heavy trap rhythm, placing its weight on forceful percussion and an assertive sonic foundation. The track follows “BAD,” continuing a run of releases that foreground ATEEZ’s commanding performance style while reinforcing the intensity that has become central to their sound.
For a group whose identity has long been shaped by movement, ambition, and an expansive fictional universe, “Drip” arrives at a significant point in their trajectory. Since their debut in October 2018, HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA, YUNHO, YEOSANG, SAN, MINGI, WOOYOUNG, and JONGHO have built a discography that moves between hip-hop, electronic production, and cinematic storytelling. Their music has consistently treated each release as part of a larger narrative, with the TREASURE, FEVER, and THE WORLD series establishing the foundations for the current GOLDEN HOUR era.
Rather than existing as a standalone collection of songs, ATEEZ’s discography has developed through recurring themes of discovery, rebellion, identity, and the pursuit of freedom. That continuity has helped distinguish the group in a crowded K-pop landscape, where their theatrical presentation and performance-driven approach operate alongside a sound that frequently favors dramatic builds and uncompromising intensity.
“Drip” extends that identity into a new release cycle. Its heavy trap production provides a fitting backdrop for a group whose music often draws its force from rhythmic tension and the contrast between individual vocal colors and collective impact. The single also arrives amid growing anticipation for the group’s next EP, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6, scheduled for release on November 13 at 2 p.m. KST.
The response to the rollout offered an early indication of that anticipation. The music video teaser, released on October 20, accumulated more than 12 million views across platforms, drawing attention ahead of the full single’s arrival. While teaser views alone cannot capture the complete reception of a release, the figure reflects the considerable interest surrounding ATEEZ’s next musical move.
That interest has developed alongside the group’s expanding international presence. ATEEZ have reached the Billboard 200 and Billboard Hot 100 with their releases, established themselves as million-selling artists, and earned recognition from major American music award organizations. Their international touring history, meanwhile, has helped translate their elaborate stage concepts into large-scale live performances, making the connection between their recorded music and concert identity a defining feature of their career.
The group’s next touring schedule points toward another extensive international chapter in 2027. Dates currently announced include performances in Incheon on January 22–24, followed by Tokyo on February 2–3 and Kobe on February 13–14. The European leg is set to begin in London on March 31, with subsequent stops in Lyon, Berlin, Krakow, Amsterdam, Cologne, and Antwerp through April 17. North American dates are planned for July and August, followed by South American dates in September, with additional stops expected to be announced.
For ATEEZ, the arrival of “Drip” is both a new musical offering and a marker of what comes next. With GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6 approaching and another international touring stretch on the horizon, the single places the group at the threshold of another busy period in their career.
Eight years after their debut, ATEEZ continue to build on a creative identity rooted in scale, narrative, and performance. “Drip” opens their next chapter with a forceful rhythmic statement, setting the stage for the next installment of GOLDEN HOUR and the milestones that may follow.
Former Bagets heartthrob, Raymond Lauchengco still carries that easy charm and quiet sincerity that made him a favorite decades ago. Yesterday afternoon at East Ocean Palace Restaurant, a familiar, welcoming spot that has long supported his projects, he sat down with the press to talk about his upcoming one-night-only concert, We Built This City: A Celebration of Generation X.
The room was relaxed and genuine. Raymond spoke like someone sharing good news with old friends. The concert happens on November 21, 2026, at 8 p.m. at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Circuit Makati. Tickets are available through TicketWorld.
“This is my dream concert because it’s about my generation,” the 60-year-old singer said with a smile. “We grew up with these songs, then went out and built lives. I want us to take an evening to enjoy how far we’ve come. We did well. And we still know how to have a good time.”
Raymond explained why it fit Generation X (born mid-1960s to 1980): they lived through the colorful, mixtape-and-MTV 1980s, then quietly built careers, raised families, made mistakes, learned from them, and kept going. “We did well. Not perfectly, but steadily. I think we’ve earned a really good night out!”
Joining him onstage are some of the biggest names in OPM: Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez, singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid, and the always-entertaining Mitch Valdes. Raymond spoke about them with clear admiration. “These are artists I’ve admired and enjoyed working with over the years. Each of them brings something special to the show,” he said.
The night blends ’80s anthems, ballads, Broadway numbers, new-wave tracks, international Top 40 hits, and Raymond’s signature songs (“So It’s You,” “Farewell,” “I Need You Back”). An immersive, city-inspired stage design frames the show, directed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo with musical direction by Marvin Querido. Produced by GRCX under Girlie Rodis.
Raymond has been on a strong creative run. His recent Aliw Award-winning concerts Just Got Lucky (marking 40 years in the business) and Everybody Loves Raymond (his 60th birthday celebration) proved that audiences still show up for him in force. This new show feels like a natural next chapter, one that looks outward to celebrate the people who grew up alongside him.
He was quick to note that the invitation isn’t limited to Gen X. “Of course, all generations… are welcome,” he has said in related conversations. Younger fans who love discovering the music that shaped their parents’ youth are more than encouraged to come. Platinum ticket holders will even get a soundcheck experience and priority meet-and-greet access after the show.
As the afternoon wound down, Raymond left the media with a simple, sincere hope: that people will walk out of the theater not only humming the old songs but also feeling proud of the lives they’ve built. The kids they once were are still inside them, he noted, and this show is designed to let those kids come out and dance for one night.
For fans who grew up with Bagets, mixtapes, and Raymond’s clear, heartfelt voice on the radio, November 21 looks like a long-overdue reunion, with the music, with old friends, and with a generation that quietly got on with the work of living and, in the process, built something lasting.
Japanese singer-songwriter delivers an intimate performance at Teatrino Promenade, featuring a special collaboration with KAIA’s Angela.
Japanese singer-songwriter Takase Toya (⾼瀬統也) marked a milestone in his international music career as he successfully staged his first-ever concert in the Philippines on October 16, 2026, at Teatrino Promenade, Greenhills, bringing his TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞” to his growing Filipino fanbase.
The intimate concert brought Takase face-to-face with Filipino fans who have followed his music across digital platforms, creating a memorable evening of live music, personal connection, and cultural exchange.
Known for his emotionally driven songwriting and distinctive contemporary Japanese pop sound, Takase delivered a live performance that highlighted his artistry and growing appeal among international audiences.
One of the evening’s highlights was a special collaboration between Takase Toya and Angela of Filipino P-pop girl group KAIA , who performed “It’s Finally the End of Our Love,” a track from Takase’s latest album, “∞.” The special stage brought together Japanese and Filipino musical talent, showcasing their vocal chemistry and highlighting the growing opportunities for cross-cultural musical collaborations between the two countries.
The show also featured Japanese artist Fumiya Sato as the opening act , setting the tone for the evening before Takase took the stage.
Beyond the performances, the concert reflected the increasingly strong connection between Japanese artists and Filipino music audiences. For Takase, whose music has reached listeners in more than 80 countries and accumulated over three billion streams according to his official artist profile, the Manila show represented another milestone in his expanding international career.
The concert was part of the TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞,” which spans multiple cities across Japan and Asia, including Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Singapore, and Jakarta.
The tour also supports Takase’s fifth album, “∞,” showcasing a new chapter in his musical journey as he continues to connect with audiences across borders.
Adding to the excitement of his Philippine debut, Takase expressed his appreciation for the warm reception from Filipino fans and promised to return to the Philippines in 20272, giving his growing local audience something to look forward to. The evening concluded with Takase and his fellow performers sharing a memorable moment with the Filipino audience, commemorating his first concert in the Philippines and the warm reception from local fans.
The Manila leg of the TAKASE TOYA ASIA TOUR 2026 “∞” was organized by TTT Inc., with production by SMC Entertainment Inc., Free Planet Music Co., Ltd., and Black Star Entertainment (BSE) Philippines.
With his successful Philippine debut and plans to return in 2027, Takase Toya continues to strengthen his connection with Filipino audiences while opening opportunities for future performances and musical collaborations between Japanese and Filipino artists.
A first-of-its-kind-experience, Spotify brought together Arthur Nery’s top fans on Premium for an intimate set, with performances available on-platform soon.
Since joining RADAR Philippines in 2020, Arthur Nery has grown his Spotify listenership 13 times and surpassed 2.8 billion streams.
Photo Credit: Magic Liwanag
For some of Arthur Nery’s biggest fans, their listening on Spotify earned them a front-row seat. Spotify launched Spotify 360, a new Premium fan experience that turns fans’ love for an artist into an up-close moment with them, then brings the performance back onto Spotify for every fan to enjoy.
Held at New Clark City Athletics Stadium, Arthur Nery is the first artist to headline Spotify 360. Arthur reimagined what his live show can be. Backed by a live strings section and a choir, the special set spanned “Na Naman,” “Binhi,” “Pagsamo”, “Isa Lang,” and “TAKE ALL THE LOVE”, giving fans an elevated, more intimate way to experience his music. Joining him on stage was special guest Jolianne, for a live performance of their 2026 hit collaboration, “Palayo Sa Mundo”.
That connection is what brought Binhis together: Arthur’s top fans on Spotify Premium earned their invite based on their listening. And on Spotify, fans have made “Isa Lang” one of the three most-streamed songs in the Philippines, while “Take all the love that I give” is the most-shared lyric in his catalog.
“We’ve watched Arthur grow from our first RADAR Philippines class into one of the leading Filipino artists on Spotify, and his listeners have been with him every step of the way,” said Kossy Ng, Head of Music, Spotify Southeast Asia. “Everyday we see firsthand how fans fuel artists’ careers. With Spotify 360, we want to put those fans at the heart of the experience.”
“On Spotify, I can see how people are listening to my music, but standing in front of Binhis who’ve made my songs part of their lives for years is something else. Some of them have been with me since the very beginning. Seeing and hearing them sing every word back that night made me realize how much we’ve grown together.” said Arthur Nery
“Being invited to Spotify 360 feels like such a privilege. It’s a rare chance to see Arthur up close, and knowing I was there because I listen to his music so much makes it even more rewarding,” shared Julia Ocampo, Spotify 360 attendee.
Spotify 360 doesn’t end when the stage lights go down. Arthur’s performances will soon be available on Live Sa Spotify, a new playlist dedicated to local live video performances by Spotify, while a five-episode editorial watchfeed follows his journey and the night itself. Attendees can relive the night, and fans everywhere can experience it for the first time.
The Spotify 360 performance with Arthur Nery at New Clark City was produced in partnership with Nine Degrees North.
Gary Valenciano, Ogie Alcasid, Mitch Valdes, and Regine Velasquez join the celebration at Samsung Performing Arts Theatre
OPM icon and forever Bagets star Raymond Lauchengco is bringing Generation X together for a night of music and celebration with “Raymond Lauchengco: We Built This City,” happening on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre, Circuit Makati.
Tickets are now available at TicketWorld outlets and online:
Taking place just eight days before his birthday, the concert is a dream project for Raymond and a tribute to the generation that grew up in the ’80s, came of age with some of the most memorable music of the era, and went on to build lives of their own.
“I think there’s a lot about our generation worth celebrating,” Raymond shares. “We built careers, raised families, made mistakes, learned from them, and somehow figured things out along the way. We did well. Not perfectly, but steadily, quietly, over time. I think we’ve earned ourselves a really good night out!”
While the concert celebrates Generation X, Raymond is quick to point out that everyone is welcome. After all, great music has a way of bringing generations together, whether Gen Z, millennial, Alpha, or Boomer.
Joining him onstage are four exceptional performers who share a special connection with the music and entertainment landscape that Gen X grew up with: Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, the chief of OPM Ogie Alcasid, sexy senior Mitch Valdes, and Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez.
“These are artists I’ve admired and enjoyed working with over the years. Each of them brings something special to the show,” Raymond says.
Audiences can look forward to a lively mix of ’80s anthems, Top 40 favorites, Broadway numbers, and Raymond’s own enduring hits. The production will also feature an imaginative digital cityscape that provides the visual backdrop for a journey through the music and experiences of a generation.
“This is my dream concert,” Raymond says. “I want people to come with their friends, hear the songs they love, and have a fantastic time. We’ve spent so much of our lives being responsible adults. For one night, we can just enjoy ourselves!”
The concert is produced by Global Resource Creative Exchange (GRCX), under industry veteran Girlie Rodis. The creative and production team bringing Raymond’s vision to the stage is led by director Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, musical director Marvin Querido, and production managers Arlene Austria and Dodie Crisostomo.
More than a trip down memory lane, “We Built This City” celebrates what Generation X has accomplished and the good times still ahead.
“We may not be the kids we used to be, and that’s okay because they remain inside us and this show will want to make them come out and sing and dance,” Raymond adds. “We’ve built pretty good lives since then. That’s something worth celebrating.”
“We Built This City” is presented by EvoCity by Ayala Land, and made possible with the support of Solid Shipping, Avolution, Tough Mama Home & Kitchen Appliances, East Ocean Palace, and Stronghold Insurance Company. Wardrobe is by JC Buendia and grooming is by J/Monis Salon.
RAYMOND LAUCHENGCO: WE BUILT THIS CITY
November 21, 2026 (Saturday), 8 PM
Samsung Performing Arts Theatre, Circuit Makati
Get your tickets at TicketWorld outlets and online:
On October 17 and 18, the Manila stop of UNDERTALE: The Determination Symphony World Tour was held at the Proscenium Theater, Rockwell. Under the baton of Maestro Thanapol Setabrahmana, the 25-piece Filharmonika Orchestra performed the soundtracks of the critically acclaimed video game. Presented by Film Concerts PH, the concert garnered four sold-out shows in total.
Prologue: Pre-Show
Released in 2015, Undertale has become one of the most popular indie video games, with downloads well exceeding 10 million across all gaming platforms, and its influence enduring even after a decade since its release. The mastermind behind it is a man called Toby Fox, who created and coded the game, wrote the story and composed the music.
The role-playing game, featuring SNES-adjacent pixel art and purely textual dialogues, has captured millions of hearts and imagination of people over the years. The plot goes: You (a human child / the player) fall into the world of monsters called the Underground. In order to find your way home, you travel across different places, struggling with the overarching conflict between humans and monsters. Therein lies your options: you can choose to eliminate or to spare whoever crosses your path. Your choices will lead to lasting consequences which will then affect the ruminations and the trials of your character. The game itself has layers of scenarios and endings, depending on the route you take.
Minutes before the show, throngs of fans gathered at the theater lobby, wearing their most creative impressions of their favorite characters . Some were handing out freebies like stickers and pins with their personal artworks. Many were excitedly talking about their costumes and taking photos together. At the heart of it, the fandom felt like a community of familiar friends who met up to watch the show together.
The CORE: The Determination Symphony Highlights
The concert, in its 1.5-hour runtime, felt like one big, undulating adventure. While the Filharmonika Orchestra played, the video snippets of the game played in the background in almost the same progression as the game. It began with the opening notes of “Once Upon the Time” which plays during the introduction sequence, progressed to the song at the start menu and meeting Flowey aka “Your Best Friend”, and so on.
Maestra Thanapol Setabrahmana welcomed the crowd to the concert, encouraging them to cheer for their favorite characters while the show went on. The orchestra proceeded to play tracks from the different stages: The Ruins, Snowdin, Waterfall and Hotland.
Experiencing UNDERTALE: The Determination Symphony live was definitely a unique concert experience. It was as if the entire audience was playing the same game at the same time, as if we were all gathered to re-immerse ourselves in the best aspects of Undertale. “Cozy” would be one way to describe the concert. Whether you started playing Undertale 10 years ago or yesterday (or even if you had not played it at all), you would still feel welcome enough to enjoy the concert from your own perspective.
The concert elevated the game’s music – what used to be lo-fi, 8-bit songs were transformed into a grand symphonic spectacle, making every minute of it more intense. Fans cheered passionately when a new character appeared (special acknowledgement goes to Sans, Papyrus, Mettaton and Undyne), their thematic songs playing in the background. The calming melodies of “Home”, “Snowy” and “Waterfall” were comforting to listen to, its tender piano reminiscent of the game’s introspective silence.
Undertale’s quirky humor also had their moments in the show. When “Oh! One True Love” played, the Maestro Setabrahmana signaled to the crowd, and right then and there, the audience began to sing “oh my love”, and the song took a life of its own. In the game, the song was played during Mettaton’s mock opera performance to taunt the player, its sarcastic lyrics flashing loudly on screen.
The Filharmonika Orchestra turned up the brass and the strings when the battle themes like “Dummy”, “Spear of Justice”, “Spider Dance”, “Death by Glamor” and “ASGORE” played. People in the crowd were bobbing their heads following the pulsing and thrilling beats while the visuals on screen thoroughly reminded them of the stress induced by the incessant bullet-hell mechanics. Sniffles and soft sighs were heard during the sequence of the conclusive battle with Asriel Dreemur leading up to the ultimate, happy ending.
For the encore, the ever popular “Megalovania”, in its intensified guitar-heavy glory, was just about the perfect closer to the electrifying show. At its last beat, the crowd rose from their seats to give the orchestra a much-deserved standing ovation.
For fans, UNDERTALE: The Determination Symphony was an impeccable way to re-experience the game with the special addition of a live orchestra – a great way for them to celebrate the game’s best moments as a fan community, as shown by their collective cheers, sighs, gasps and laughter. The show was so evocatively good, that at the end of it, fans of the game were filled not only by determination, but an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and satisfaction.
The five-member group is set to meet Japanese fans in November following the release of its first Japanese single, “KNT (君の特別) Kimi no Tokubetsu.”
P-Pop continues to find new audiences beyond the Philippines, and VXON is taking another step in that direction. The five-member boy group is set to make its first live appearance in Japan at Philippine Festival Tokyo 2026, scheduled for November 28 and 29 at Yoyogi Park Event Square in Tokyo.
For VXON, the upcoming performance comes shortly after the release of its first Japanese single, “KNT (君の特別) Kimi no Tokubetsu,” on October 16. The track introduces the group to Japanese listeners through a new-language adaptation of “KNT (Kanta Ng Tanga),” one of its Tagalog releases. Retitled to mean “Your Special One,” the Japanese version retains the song’s catchy pop appeal while bringing its bittersweet sentiment to a different audience.
The festival will mark the group’s first opportunity to perform in Japan, giving local listeners a chance to experience VXON beyond its recorded releases. Alongside the Japanese single, the group is expected to showcase songs from its existing catalog, highlighting the vocals, choreography, and stage presence that have helped establish its identity in the Philippine pop scene. The official performance schedule and stage details have yet to be announced.
Since debuting in 2022 under Cornerstone Entertainment, VXON has built its reputation as one of the acts contributing to the evolving sound and performance culture of P-Pop. Often dubbed the “Monsters of P-Pop,” the group is recognized for its vocal and dance skills, as well as its involvement in the creative process behind its music and performances, from songwriting and vocal arrangements to video editing and stage production.
Its move into the Japanese market through “KNT (君の特別) Kimi no Tokubetsu” offers a new way to introduce that identity to listeners unfamiliar with its Tagalog releases. The upcoming festival appearance also places the group within a broader celebration of Filipino culture in Japan, where music serves as one of the ways Filipino artists connect with audiences at home and abroad.
Organized by the Philippine Festival Tokyo Executive Committee, in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Japan, Philippine Festival Tokyo 2026 will bring Filipino culture and community to Yoyogi Park across two days. VXON’s participation adds a P-Pop act to the festival lineup, offering an opportunity for both Filipino fans in Japan and curious new listeners to discover the group.
Philippine Festival Tokyo 2026 will take place at Yoyogi Park Event Square, 2-1 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. Admission is free, with food, beverages, and merchandise available for purchase.
VXON’s first Japanese single is available on LINE MUSIC, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other major streaming platforms. Fans can follow the group’s Japanese activities through VXON JAPAN’s official Linktree, while festival updates are available on the official Philippine Festival Tokyo website.
In moments of joy and trials, gratitude remains a powerful expression of faith. This is the heart of “Salamat, Ama,” a moving OPM praise song composed by Kuya Daniel Razon, performed by Adelene Rabulan, and released under KDR Music House.
Through heartfelt lyrics such as “Salamat sa bagong araw, salamat at nasilayan” and “Salamat at pag-ibig Mo, laging nararamdaman,” the song expresses appreciation for the gift of life and the comfort of God’s constant presence.
Beyond thanksgiving, “Salamat, Ama” highlights the importance of trusting God through life’s challenges. It reminds listeners that correction, discipline, and trials can become opportunities for spiritual growth, teaching humility and strengthening one’s commitment to follow God’s teachings.
More than a song of praise, “Salamat, Ama” is a heartfelt prayer that encourages people to live with gratitude, remain steadfast in faith, and give honor to God in every circumstance. Its timeless message reminds everyone that each new day is another reason to say, “Salamat, Ama.”
The Naga-based band channels Gapo funk, ’70s Motown, and contemporary OPM into a groovetastic jam about finding joy amid life’s demands.
After their vital reintroduction with Manila Sound-inflected “Salamangka,” Naga-based band IDLEPITCH keeps the momentum going with “Sige Lang,” a buoyant new single released independently via Underdog Music Asia.
Blending old-school Gapo funk and ’70s Motown with contemporary OPM sensibilities, the track keeps a warm, accessible sound that stands out—thanks to its suave rhythms, playful instrumentation, and an uplifting message: “life is meant to be enjoyed, even amid the demands of everyday living.”
Penned by vocalist Jude Serrano, “Sige Lang” doubles down on fast-paced living and the mental distress it brings. Culled from friends’ frustrations with work pressure and professional ambition, Serrano envisioned the song as a reminder to step back and appreciate life’s simplest pleasures. “Payong kaibigan siya in the form of a song,” he shares, describing the track as friendly advice wrapped in a tastefully groovy sonic motif.
Guitarist and arranger Herbert Belbes spent weeks improving the arrangement, turning its many musical ideas into a more grounded output without overcrowding the mix. Meanwhile, bassist Jeff Dy and drummer Ryan Oñate developed the track’s rhythmic backbone, pushing beyond the band’s familiar rock-oriented sensibilities. “Ayaw kasi naming ikulong ang sarili namin sa isang genre lang,” Dy explains. “Mahilig kaming mag-try ng iba’t ibang tunog, at para sa akin, iyon ang isa sa mga exciting sa paggawa ng music.”
As it progresses, the song morphs seamlessly into a funk fantasia, further refined by tight arrangements, intricate horn passages, and a clavinet solo. Keyboardist Jeremy Pronto’s spontaneous melodic ideas and the WonderCollab production team’s collaborative contributions also elevate the track, production-wise, giving it sunshine and fuller life.
For IDLEPITCH, “Sige Lang” also conveys the band members’ efforts to balance work, family, and music. “Lahat naman tayo may kanya-kanyang responsibilities, trabaho, problema, at mgagoals na gustong maabot. Pero minsan, sa sobrangbusy natin, nakakalimutan na nating mag-enjoy,” Dy says.
With its easygoing groove and message of appreciation, “Sige Lang” encourages listeners to loosen up, find reasons to celebrate, and keep moving forward: one dance at a time.
IDLEPITCH’s “Sige Lang” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.
Between the spooky season and the festive holidays, there’s November for your much-needed breather—just the perfect time to sit back, relax, and stream to your heart’s desire on Netflix Philippines!
From thrilling titles that spark conversations to heartwarming films that can kickstart your holiday mood like Steps (starring Ali Wong, Amanda Seyfried, and Stephanie Hsu), these 13 stories can surely fit your streaming personality—or maybe let you discover your new favorite genre.
Launch date: November 20 Synopsis: In this charmingly offbeat action comedy, Cinderella’s “evil” stepsister Lilith steals the Fairy Godmother’s wand and shatters the story as we know it.
Launch date: November 11 Synopsis: On Halloween night, an all-girls dance squad tumbles into Catholic guilt, unholy desires and ghostly visions when an initiation goes to hell.
Launch date: November 13 Synopsis: Former country legend Misty Jones (Jessica Chastain) returns to Nashville to unravel the truth behind her rising-star niece’s disappearance.
Launch date: November 25 Synopsis: In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, four college football stars enlist in the US Marines, discovering the strength of brotherhood and the cost of war.
Launch date: November 26 Synopsis: At the start of Season 2, Sophie and Margo are on the outs. But soon enough, old secrets and new foes force them back together. As they play their dangerous games, the question arises. Are they the hunters or the hunted?
Launch date: November 3 Synopsis: In a steampunk West overrun by outlaws, machines and supernatural forces, a father is forced to become judge, jury and executioner to protect his family.
Synopsis:Directed by Lee Chang-dong(“Burning”),a laid-off worker and his wife cross paths with a documentary filmmaker and her spouse and confront their hidden desires.
Synopsis:Young, idealistic and suddenly worth billions, they tried to do good — but unleashed the worst in each other. A toxic love story inspired by a real fraud.
Synopsis:In a sunless future where humans become plants to make oxygen, a desperate young man undergoes “Transfloration” — and discovers he can hear the voices of those who have become plants.
Synopsis:When a medical emergency pulls the Goss family apart, determined dog Winstead will do all he can to bring his humans back together before Christmas Eve.
Synopsis:Given a year to live, frugal 40-year-old Yui finally lets herself spend: “buying” nightclub host Sena. What begins as a contract takes an unexpected turn.
Synopsis:20 years after his childhood encounter with an alien, Petey never moved on. Now his old friend is back, but the reunion comes with a world-ending secret.
Synopsis:A no-nonsense bodyguard heads to a Montana ranch with the famous actor she’s protecting. But posing as a couple for Christmas soon sparks a real romance.
Stream, download, and enjoy films and series anytime, anywhere onNetflix.
The cast of Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical
From voluminous hairstyles reminiscent of Budji’s iconic ’70s looks to shimmering disco makeup and Pitoy Moreno-inspired couture to extravagant costumes, Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical brings the bold fashion and beauty of 1970s Manila to life onstage.
As the production approaches its final performances until October 31 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, the colorful costumes, elaborate hairstyles, and glittering looks created by costume designer Hershee Tantiado and hair and makeup designer Johann Dela Fuente take one last turn in the spotlight.
Costume Designer Hershee Tantiado and Hair and Makeup Designer Johann Dela Fuente
“What makes the 1970s so interesting is how much was happening in fashion at the time. You had the more traditional elegance of Filipino couture, but you also had all these Western influences coming in, especially with disco, music, and pop culture,” Tantiado shared.
Meanwhile, Dela Fuente researched the beauty trends of the period through archival photographs of Coco Banana nightlife and everyday scenes in Quiapo and Avenida. “I wasn’t born in the ’70s, so I wanted to ensure our world felt rooted in actual Metro Manila history rather than just generic Western ’70s tropes,” he explained.
Aurora Pasion, alternatively played by Jackie Lou Blanco and Ring Antonio
Filipino couture and creative reinvention Drawing inspiration from Filipino designers such as Pitoy Moreno and Salvacion Lim Higgins, Tantiado created the refined fashion of House of Pasion, where Aurora Pasion, alternatively played by Jackie Lou Blanco and Ring Antonio, wears structured blazer dresses and tailored ensembles. “For House of Pasion, we wanted it to feel like an established fashion house, with a rigidness and elegance to it. We also wanted it to look a little dated, as though it was still holding on to the fashion sensibilities of an earlier decade,” Tantiado explained.
In contrast, Annie Batungbakal, played by Atasha Muhlach, embraces unconventional fashion through repurposed neckties, discarded fabrics, and patchwork Filipiniana. “While some characters can afford to be extravagant, Annie has to invent her own extravagance,” Tantiado shared.
One standout costume features a dress made entirely from metallic zippers for the Asian Fantasy sequence. “From the audience, it looks like a fringed outfit, very much in keeping with the disco aesthetic of the ’70s. But if you look closely, the whole dress is actually made from metallic zippers,” she revealed.
Big Hair and bold makeup For Dela Fuente, recreating the decade meant translating feathered hairstyles, voluminous blowouts, and dramatic makeup into looks that would register onstage.
At House of Pasion, simple ponytails and understated makeup reflect the workplace setting. Coco Banana, meanwhile, features glamorous hairstyles, jewel-toned eyeshadow, sharp eyeliner, exaggerated lashes, and glossy lips. “This is pure fantasy and sweat-resistant glamour. We dialed up the volume with blowouts, bangs, textures, high ponytails,” Dela Fuente described the nightclub’s beauty direction.
Annie alone wears four wigs throughout the musical, including a half-ponytail with a Swarovski-encrusted butterfly clip, a Farrah Fawcett-inspired blowout embellished with orange crystals, and a sleek, center-parted hairstyle inspired by Cher. “Based on the costume design by Hershee Tantiado, I decided on a butterfly design for her hair accessory because just like a butterfly, she evolves,” Dela Fuente explained.
The elaborate transformations also required extensive preparation. Dela Fuente personally styled more than 25 wigs, with some performers completing full wig and costume changes in just 10 to 20 seconds. “Wigs are crucial not just for Annie, but for the whole cast because of all the quick character changes needed for the show,” he shared.
Disco floor as runway The musical’s Coco Banana scenes bring together both designers’ visions through flamboyant costumes, elaborate hairstyles, and glamorous makeup.
“Coco Banana was probably one of the most fun parts to design because we could really go all out,” Tantiado shared. “We imagined it as a place where dressing up was almost a performance in itself. Almost like everyone was attending their own little fashion show.”
The nightclub’s fashionable crowd wears sequins, metallic fabrics, and flowing silhouettes, including Romer Pasion’s Studio 54-inspired menswear and Burn Rivera’s folk-rock fashion.
For Dela Fuente, the hairstyles and makeup complete each character’s transformation. “I believe hair and makeup design is distinct from costume design. It’s my job to coordinate with the costume department and add the magical finishing touches that complete the characters’ looks,” he shared.
One last look before the final bow As Bongga Ka, ’Day! enters its closing weeks, the costumes, hairstyles, and makeup offer one last celebration of the decade’s creativity and individuality.
“I think that’s what made the production so enjoyable to design. We could explore so many different styles from the same decade, from flamboyant disco menswear to bohemian and folk-rock fashion, while still having room for fantasy and theatrical exaggeration,” Tantiado reflected.
For Dela Fuente, the audience’s appreciation of the transformations has been equally rewarding.
“Thank you to the actors who trust me and say they love their looks, and to the audience members who say, ‘Really? That’s a wig? I thought it was their real hair!’—that’s how I know I’ve done a wonderful job.”
From the refined couture of House of Pasion to the glittering glamour of Coco Banana, audiences can experience the fashion, beauty, and music of Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical one last time at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Newport World Resorts, in association with VIVA Communications and The Philippine STAR, reunites for Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical featuring Hotdog’s timeless hits. The show, staged with PETA Plus, closes on October 31, 2026, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Tickets for the last few remaining shows are available online and at all TicketWorld outlets and at the Newport World Resorts Box Office: PHP 4500 (SVIP), PHP 4000 (VIP), PHP 3,400 (GOLD), PHP 2,400 (SILVER), and PHP 1,300 (BRONZE).
Discover more to love about an all-original Filipino production with a special discount of 15% off on Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical tickets through the Discover More To Love website www.tourism.gov.ph using promo code BKDXDOT. Audiences can also enjoy 15% off tickets through the Department of Trade and Industry’s Malikhaing Pinoy platform at www.malikhaingpinoy.ph/calendar/ using promo code MPXBKD, in support of Filipino creativity and the country’s creative industries.
Learn more about the artists and the production through Newport World Resorts (@newportworldresorts), VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), and The Philippine STAR (@philippinestar) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
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