This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
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Showing posts with label BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT. Show all posts
An 18-year-old Filipino Canadian and jazz dancer is going straight to the live semifinals of the seventh season of "Pilipinas Got Talent" after Asia's Superstar Kathryn Bernardo chose her as her golden buzzer.
Jasmine Flores impressed the judges especially Kathryn with her flawless routine which included a blend of jazz, ballet, and acrobatics.
She also elegantly showcased clean pirouettes and backflips.Kathryn lauded Jasmine for being a proud Filipina and not forgetting her Pinoy roots. She also added that she liked how Jasmine owned the stage.All the judges gave Jasmine a standing ovation.
For FMG, he commended Jasmine for combining different styles of movements from jazz to acrobatics. Eugene, meanwhile, felt proud of being a Filipino while seeing Jasmine showcasing her Pinoy blood. Donny said that it is rare to see a good jazz performance on the "PGT" stage.
The Golden Buzzer is a special privilege given to the four judges and the hosts, allowing them to send an act straight to the live semifinals. Each judge and the hosts can only use it once throughout the auditions.
As of now, all the golden buzzers are used.Don’t miss the last set of auditionees on “Pilipinas Got Talent” Season 7, airing at 7:15 pm this weekend on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z.
Viewers can also catch it on TV5 every Saturday, at 7:15 PM, and Sundays, at 7:45 PM.Don't forget to follow @abscbnpgt on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.
Filipino-American composer and percussionist Susie Ibarra won the Pulitzer Prize for Music for her work "Sky Land," which features an eight-piece ensemble inspired by the rainforests of Luzon.
"Sky Land" premiered on July 18, 2024, in New York commissioned by the Asia Society. Susie mentioned in a statement that "the composition draws from the rainforest ecosystems of Luzon and explores themes of biodiversity, climate change, and community practices. Traditional Philippine sounds featured in the piece include Northern-style bamboo instruments, gongs, and the flute."
The premiere performance featured an eight-piece ensemble, including Ibarra herself, flutist Claire Chase, pianist Alex Peh, and members of the Bergamot Quartet.
Her fellow nominees were Jalalu-Kalvert Nelson for "Jim is Still Crowing" and George Lewis for "The Comet."
The Pulitzer Board praised the composition for “challenging the notion of the compositional voice by intertwining the profound musicianship and improvisational skills of a soloist as a creative tool.” Ibarra received a $15,000 (P830,000) together with her fellow recipients.
Founder of Susie Ibarra Studios and Habitat Sound, the Fil-Am composer works at the intersection of sound, sustainability, and social justice.
Well-known venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and Museum of Modern Art have displayed Susie's work. In addition to that, she is also a co-founder of Song of the Bird King, an organization dedicated to preserving indigenous music and ecological knowledge in the Philippines.
Raised in Houston by her Filipino parents, Ibarra is trained in both Western classical music and the Philippine kulintang tradition.
Like Susie, several Filipino-Americans have won the Pulitzer Prize, including Bryan Acohido, Alex Tizon, Jose Antonio Vargas, and Cheryl Diaz.
Other Pulitzer Prize winners include the late diplomat Carlos P. Romulo in 1942 and writer Manny Mogato in 2018.
Mark your calendars! Tickets for Puregold OPMCON 2025 will be sold from May 16 to 17 at the Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
The event gives Filipino music fans first dibs at passes to one of the country’s biggestcultural events of the year. Set for July 5 at the Philippine Arena, Puregold OPMCON2025 will feature an unbeatable lineup of today’s brightest OPM superstars andPuregold collaborators—SB19, BINI, Flow G, Sunkissed Lola, G22, Skusta Clee, andKAIA—as part of its wildly successful Nasa Atin Ang Panalo campaign.
The epic night of music, talent, and Pinoy pride is one of the high points of Nasa AtinAng Panalo campaign’s second year as it continues to champion Original Pinoy Music.Check out Nasa Atin Ang Panalo’s all-new roster of the most talked-about names in theFilipino music scene—G22, Skusta Clee, and KAIA—who will bring their own sound,grit, and panalo story to the stage.G22, dubbed P-POP’s alpha females, continues to stun audiences with theirpowerhouse vocals, intensity, and unstoppable energy.
Since debuting in 2022,members AJ, Alfea, and Jaz have serially released a slew of hits such as “Bang,”“Boomerang,” “Limitless”—and their latest, “Pa-Pa-Pa-Palaban.”G22’s music video collaboration with Puregold, “Pagpili,” dropped on April 9 and quicklyracked up over 3 million views in just two weeks. The song’s empowering messagereminds everyone to choose boldly and say it loud.
Meanwhile, Skusta Clee, one of the most influential names in Filipino hip-hop today,dropped a powerful track titled “Sari-Saring Kwento” on May 8, an explosivecollaboration with fellow rap phenom Flow G, with sharp bars, infectious beats, and amessage that cuts deep for every Pinoy listener.
Also joining the movement is KAIA, the five-member P-POP girl group known for strikingvisuals and emboldening anthems. Members Angela, Charice, Alexa, Sophia, andCharlotte are set to release their “Kaya Mo” music video on June 12—perfectly timed forIndependence Day to celebrate Filipina pride, independence, and strength.“Nasa Atin Ang Panalo has evolved into something more purposeful than a campaign.
It’s now a crusade—one that celebrates the strength, dreams, and talents of Filipinos,”Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Senior Marketing Manager of Puregold, shares. “Through thisplatform, we hope to showcase our homegrown artists and inspire Puregold membersand customers as they relish original panalo music on a world-class stage.”
Ticket mechanics for OPMCON 2025 will be posted soon via Puregold’s official socialmedia channels—so stay locked in and ready.
The photo shows the Puregold OPMCON 2025, featuring performances from SB19, BINI, G22, KAIA, Skusta Clee, Flow G, and Sunkissed Lola, will light up the Philippine Arena on July 5.
P-pop girl group BINI has released a statement addressing the controversial video involving three of its members.
The full statement:
"We know that the past couple of days have been triggering and disappointing for all of you. Sincerely, we understand where all of those feelings are coming from.
"The video shows a private moment of us with friends. We definitely did not intend to hurt anyone in the process. We offer no excuse for our actions, reactions, and choice of words. We take full accountability.
"Nagkamali kami.
"We deeply regret our mistake and sincerely apologize to our Blooms, friends, families, and the general public.
"We humbly ask for a chance to reflect on and learn from our mistakes and continue to work on becoming better versions of ourselves.
"Maraming salamat po sa inyong malasakit, suporta, at pag-unawa."
Set to premiere nationwide on May 28, 2025, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with joy, reflection, and a touch of magic.
From left: Aki Blanco, Ms. Carmi Martin and multi-awarded actor, Jaime Fabregas
Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired—because this May, Kapitana Entertainment Media proudly presents 'Isang Komedya sa Langit', a uniquely heartwarming blend of comedy, fantasy, and drama.
Set to premiere nationwide on May 28, 2025, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with joy, reflection, and a touch of magic.
At the heart of the film is the veteran actor Jaime Fabregas, who takes on the role of Father Emanuel Garcia. Known for his powerful portrayals of clergy in Philippine cinema, Fabregas once again delivers a performance that resonates deeply. While playing a priest may be familiar territory for him, he admits this character brought a fresh challenge.
“Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang beses na ako gumanap bilang pari. Well, may challenge pa rin kase hindi naman lahat ng pari ay may pare-parehong character,” he shared.
Drawing from personal experiences, Fabregas revealed that he once served as an altar boy at the Naga Cathedral, a connection that undoubtedly adds depth and authenticity to his performance.
Joining Fabregas is the ever-charismatic Carmi Martin, who plays the role of Naty—a part originally offered to Nova Villa. Embracing the project without hesitation, Martin saw great promise in the film’s story. Widely loved for her comedic flair, she showcases her versatility by diving into emotionally charged scenes, even shedding tears on set.
Also starring in the film is rising talent Aki Blanco, portraying Brother Marco. Following his acclaimed role in 'The Last 12 Days'. Blanco, managed by Tyronne Escalante, continues to build his reputation with another moving performance. When asked what he would change if he could revisit the past, Blanco reflected candidly:
“Siguro po, kung may babaguhin man ako, gusto ko bumalik sa pagiging teenager ko. Kase nung teenager ako, simple lang ang buhay ko… gusto ko lang balikan ‘yung mga gano’n kase sa panahon ngayon, puro social media na and puro celfone,” he expressed.
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The film’s ensemble cast is further strengthened by performances from EA Guzman, John Medina, and Gene Padilla—each adding their own vibrant flavor to the story.
Behind this compelling project is writer and producer Rossana Hwang, the visionary force of Kapitana Entertainment Media. Far more than just the mind behind the screenplay, Hwang personally sought out the film’s leading talents. Jaime Fabregas came highly recommended by Frasco Mortiz, son of the comedic legend Edgar Mortiz.
“You have to get him,” Mortiz told Hwang.
From left: Aki Blanco, producer and screenplay writer Rossana Hwang, Carmi Martin and multi-awarded actor, Jaime Fabregas
Meanwhile, Carmi Martin was personally recruited by Hwang through the Barangay Chairman of Magallanes Village in Makati—an effort that highlights her passion and hands-on commitment to the craft of filmmaking.
Directed by Roi Paolo Calilong, 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' delivers a rich, colorful, and deeply meaningful story that is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind film that dares to blend humor with heartfelt drama. 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' is more than just a movie—it’s a reflection on life, faith, and love. This is a cinematic experience you won’t want to miss.
For more updates and information, visit Kapitana Entertainment Media.
Launched in August 2024, Callback is Asia's first digital casting platform, built to make the casting process faster, safer, and more inclusive.
'Callback' intensive workshop
Callback, the Philippines' pioneering digital casting platform, proudly announces its first-ever intensive workshop, "Acting as a Career: Audition Fundamentals", at the Ateneo de Manila University on May 10, 2-6 p.m.
Presented in partnership with the Ateneo Fine Arts Department, this event marks the launch of Callback's initiative to nurture and build long-lasting careers for the next generation of Filipino actors.
The "Acting as a Career: Audition Fundamentals" workshop is open to all, regardless of age and school. This one-day intensive workshop will be facilitated by Sheenly Gener, a Berlinale Talents alumna, QCinema 2017 Best Supporting Actress, and one of the country's most respected acting coaches, widely known for her instinct-driven, empathetic mentoring style. With years of experience across stage and screen, Sheenly empowers actors to trust their instincts, expand their creative range, and build the confidence necessary to thrive in the competitive acting world.
"Acting as a Career: Audition Fundamentals" is designed to demystify the audition process and equip participants with the tools they need to launch and sustain a professional acting career. The intensive workshop will cover how auditions work, the types of auditions actors may encounter, techniques for standing out during auditions, and on-camera performance fundamentals. Participants will also be introduced to the Actor's Toolkit with Callback, which includes crafting professional headshots, resumes, and set cards, and gaining insight into the tools that get talents noticed and cast. Every participant will receive a certificate of participation.
The standard registration fee is PHP 1,499. However, participants with a complete Callback profile will enjoy a discounted rate of PHP 999. Creating a Callback profile is free and gives you access to verified casting calls, job opportunities, and a growing network of industry professionals.
Launched in August 2024, Callback is Asia's first digital casting platform, built to make the casting process faster, safer, and more inclusive. Imagine LinkedIn for actors and filmmakers: a platform where talents can create professional profiles and apply directly to casting jobs, and where filmmakers and businesses can post casting calls and efficiently discover the right talent for their projects.
At its core, Callback is committed to raising industry standards, fostering tech-forward solutions, and prioritizing safety for both talent and creators through its built-in security features.
Built on safety, fairness, and community values, Callback provides full-stack casting tools to support casting directors, producers, and filmmakers. By promoting a more transparent, collaborative, and secure casting process, Callback is helping create job opportunities, elevate talent visibility, and build a stronger, more sustainable creative industry.
More than just a tool for actors and filmmakers, Callback is a movement to professionalize casting in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. With the rise of international co-productions and increased regional casting, Callback aims to become the go-to platform for discovering all types of talent—actors, voice artists, hosts, singers, stunt performers, background extras, and more.
Callback is a proud awardee of the Quezon City Government's prestigious Startup QC program and was featured as a participant at the Cannes Film Festival's prestigious Cannes Next, a global showcase where cutting-edge technology meets world-class creativity. The Film Academy of the Philippines, the Quezon City Film Commission, and Launch Garage support the callback.
"Acting as a Career: Audition Fundamentals" takes place during the culmination of the Ateneo Fine Arts Festival, which runs from May 2 to May 10, celebrating what the Ateneo Fine Arts Department offers. All Ateneo Fine Arts courses will showcase their work throughout the festival through workshops, staged readings, an arts exhibit, and many more events. Food stalls will also be available for the benefit of festival-goers.
Ready to become a star and turn your passion into a profession? Join Callback this May 10, 2025, and take your first bold step into the world of acting. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/SETJvyy2Zwfk4z317
Visit callback.ph to create your free account. Follow @callback.ph on social media to learn more and secure your slot. Limited slots only—register now!
Vertical films are short and creative movies in portraits instead of landscapes.
Meg Imperial
Vivamax Queen Meg Imperial’s new vertical film,” Purse Lady,” is going viral on Facebook. The sexy actress has three million followers on Facebook.
Vertical films are short and creative movies in portraits instead of landscapes. These are the short films you see on Facebook, like Dhar Mann, which focuses on good values and faith, which I like. There is another vertical program I love, which is about the emperor of China disguising himself as a pauper to find a wife. When you watch it, you will get hooked and proceed to the viewing app it is promoting.
I was able to interview Meg regarding her new project on the set because I am also a part of Purse Lady. I asked Meg about her role and a little synopsis of the film, “My name is Jade Yu, in the vertical film, and I am the 'Purse Lady.' I am a multi-millionaire but a recluse, very shy, like a hermit. I own an international bag and purse business, such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel. My bags are known worldwide, but not me as a person. I don’t come out on social media. Everybody knows my name, but cannot put a face to me since I live like a hermit. Since elections are coming up, many candidates seek financial support from my company through solicitation letters, even if they do not know my face. But I do not know these politicians, so I got an idea from my secretary to be an undercover assistant to these politicians, to check if they deem me fit to support them financially for their campaign. But lo and behold, while this happens, a lady imposter suddenly emerges and poses as me, the 'Purse Lady.' She takes my esteemed and prestigious reputation, wealth, influence, and money. How to get it back? Watch our program in the Just Vibin App since you can only watch so much on Facebook," Meg tells Gossip Girl.
The Just Vibin App is a downloadable app on your iPhone or Android phone that features creative content produced by the Purse Lady and other content creators. Just Vibin has a Creator Boost Program, which helps emerging talents monetize their content through tips, subscriptions, and product sales. Just Vibin allows creators to be featured on curated community pages and live events, making finding and building an audience easier. The creator who produced Purse Lady is director Nijel de Mesa, an award-winning director who recently won the Best International Film Director award for his movie "Malditas in Maldives" at the 2024 Jinseo Arigato International Film Festival.
I asked the writer-director and former Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Vice Chairman why he called his vertical film “Purse Lady”. Was this a pun to our “First Lady,'' “Hahaha! Giselle, you are always a funny, brilliant girl! The Purse Lady is about a Lady who owns a purse business. So it has nothing to do with the First Lady of the Philippines. But for the title to ring a bell, I did hook it to the title First Lady, but no allegory or insinuation to her in the film. The series highlights the journey of woman entrepreneurs focusing on her resilience to get out of her rut because of an impostor ruining her reputation. I produced this in my production NDM studios and used the Just Vibin App as my social platform to release it.”
Those who are intrigued by "Purse Lady" can download the Just Vibin App for free and enjoy its programs and entertainment.
During the press conference for her upcoming film "In Between" with Diego Loyzaga at the Viva Cafe in Araneta City, Sue opened up about the current state of her love life with Dominic.
Sue Ramirez
Kapamilya actress Sue Ramirez gave a beautiful, blooming aura when asked about her relationship with Dominic Roque.
During the press conference for her upcoming film "In Between" with Diego Loyzaga at the Viva Cafe in Araneta City, Sue opened up about the current state of her love life with Dom.
"Ang saya lang po sa totoo lang, walang pressure. Masaya lang kami lagi, lumalabas kami, we enjoy our time together, explore, go on adventures together, and eat the best food together. (It's just fun, really, no pressure. We're always happy, go out, enjoy our time together, explore, go on adventures together, and eat the best food together)," Sue said.
The actress also added that knowing each other's interests is essential when committing to a relationship.
"I think the foundation of starting a relationship is finding out kung ano yung mga interest niyo. So far, swak naman yung interest naming dalawa. (I believe the foundation of starting a relationship is finding your interests. So far, our interests are compatible)," she added.
It can be recalled that the two sparked dating rumors when they were spotted kissing inside a bar in November 2024. This added more fuel when they were spotted allegedly together at a social gathering, and again when they were seen holding hands crossing the street.
Sue Ramirez and Dominic Roque
Sue finally addressed the rumor and confirmed they were dating during her ambush interview in December for the Metro Manila Film Festival movie, "The Kingdom." Meanwhile, Dominic also addressed the rumor as he was present at the event at that time.
Dominic launched his Instagram with a subtle hard launch, posting a picture with Sue and his other celebrity friends at the Angrydobo Restaurant owned by Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo. Dominic and Sue first appeared together on the red carpet at the Star Magic Ball last April 4.
Before they hit it off, Dominic was in a three-year relationship with Bea Alonzo. He proposed to Bea in July 2023, but they eventually called it off in January 2024.
In November, Victorias City mayor Javi Benitez confirmed that he and Sue have parted ways after five years of being together.
Working again with Diego Loyzaga
After working on the film "How to Love Mr. Heartless" in 2022, Sue and Diego are back on the big screen.
"The good thing about working again with Diego is nagkasama na kami sa ASAP chill out for a couple of years. So every time we see each other, walang pagbabago, nagkukulitan pa rin kami. So ayun yung maganda about this project. (The good thing about working again with Diego is that we've been together on ASAP chill out for a couple of years. So every time we see each other, there's no difference; we're still the same kids. So that's what's good about this project)," Sue said.
Sue Ramirez, Gino Santos, and Diego Loyzaga
"In Between" follows the story of Gaila (Sue) and Shane (Diego) as they navigate the world of "Situationship" or "In Between"
As each other’s in between, they help in different aspects of their lives, like at home, in their jobs, or in their sex/love lives. Gaila teaches the perfectionist Shane to loosen up and go on casual dating. Shane teaches Gaila to be brave and look for something that lasts in her work and love life.
Connected, but not committed, Shane and Gaila find this companionship convenient. But as one would expect, they start to fall in love. But when both feel like they’ve seen “The One” in each other, Shane’s TOTGA (The One That Got Away) returns.
Directed by Gino M. Santos, Pat Sugui, Lander Vera-Perez, Phoebe Walker, Benj Manalo, Guji Lorenzana, and more are joining the cast.
"In Between" shows nationwide in cinemas on May 7, 2025.
In partnership with theManila Bulletin,Himig Panalangininvites viewers to rediscover the role of sacred music in everyday life—from the quiet corners of parish choirs to the grand harmonies of Filipino liturgical history.
This Holy Week, let the power of sacred music lead you into deeper reflection and renewal.
Jesuit Communications (JesCom) proudly presents Himig Panalangin, its 19th Holy Week television special, airing this Black Saturday, April 19, at 7:30 a.m. on GMA-7. A moving documentary on how Catholic music shapes and strengthens faith, Himig Panalangin is a soul-stirring tribute to the songs, stories, and spiritual journeys that define Filipino worship.
In partnership with the Manila Bulletin, Himig Panalangin invites viewers to rediscover the role of sacred music in everyday life—from the quiet corners of parish choirs to the grand harmonies of Filipino liturgical history.
Music in the midst of struggle
At its heart, Himig Panalangin tells the powerful stories of three individuals whose lives were transformed through music and faith.
The documentary features:
A convict-turned-composer who found redemption in the prison music ministry,
A devoted choir member battling chronic illness while continuing to serve the Church,
And a Filipina OFW in Hong Kong, leading her parish choir while drawing spiritual strength far from home.
Through these deeply human narratives, Himig Panalangin reflects on how music becomes a prayer, a refuge, and a calling—especially in times of difficulty.
Honoring musical pillars of faith
For the first time in Philippine media, Himig Panalangin also honors two prominent figures in Filipino liturgical music: Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, widely regarded as the Father of Filipino Liturgical Music, and National Artist Lucio San Pedro.
Fr. Hontiveros, an esteemed Jesuit priest from Molo, Iloilo, composed over 400 hymns—Papuri sa Diyos, Pananagutan, and Luwalhati, among many others—despite having no formal musical education. His legacy is illuminated through reflections from his notable mentees: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ, and Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ.
Likewise, Himig Panalangin retraces the spiritual influence of Lucio San Pedro, whose compositions continue to enrich church celebrations in his hometown of Angono, Rizal, and beyond.
A symphony of worship
Musical performances by some of the country’s finest ensembles, including the Bukas Palad Music Ministry, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, Banda Uno, and the Pansol Choir, bring these stories to life. Their renditions serve as both tribute and testimony to the enduring beauty of Filipino liturgical music.
A tradition of faith-driven storytelling
Following the success of Visita Iglesia, JesCom’s 2023 Lenten special and a finalist at the 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards, Himig Panalangin continues the humble mission of the official media arm of the Society of Jesus’ Philippine Province of evangelizing through compelling and creative programming.
With multiple CMMA wins for “Best TV Special” over the years, JesCom’s Holy Week programs have become a cherished tradition for Filipino viewers seeking spiritual nourishment.
This Black Saturday, let Himig Panalangin accompany your journey of reflection and faith.
Tune in to Himig Panalangin, April 19 at 7:30 AM on GMA-7.
