MUPH 2026 reveals Top 10 semifinalists

 

By Annalyn S. Jusay

Published Apr 27, 2026 10:47 am | Updated Apr 27, 2026 01:07 pm

(L-R) Gems of Misamis Occidental Erica Jean Cadayday (Health), Trexy Paris Roxas (Agriculture), Nicole Borromeo (Asenso Ambassadress of Goodwill), Jacqueline Aluning (Social Services), and Clarissa Westram (Education)

The race for the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 crown just got more exciting as the first 10 semifinalists of the national pageant were unveiled during the Fashion Show and 3rd Elimination Night staged in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental over the weekend.

The "Top 10 Reveal" showcased Misamis Occidental as the host of the much-awaited pre-pageant activity. It's the final stop before the coronation night on May 2 at the MOA Arena in Pasay City where Ahtisa Manalo will crown her successor.

The event opened with all 51 MUPH delegates in Bench swimwear. Miss Pampanga, Allyson Hetland, was selected as Miss Bench Body. This was followed by a fashion show featuring traditional fabric creations by local talents from ORA Fashion Designers which showcased the best of Mindanaoan artistry and craftsmanship.

The Top 10 Reveal

Ten delegates secured early spots in the semifinals after topping the third round of online swimsuit voting conducted through the Maya app from April 19 to 25.

They are: Alicia Buendia (Rizal/Filipino Society of Southern California), Ella Evangelista (Quezon Province/Filipino Society of Australia), Cherieze Cacayorin (Ilocos Norte/Filipino Society of Hawaii), Jenrose Javier (Sultan Kudarat), Donna Rein Nuguid (Pangasinan), Jencel Caña (Cavite), Alexandria Colmenares (Negros Occidental), Lyneree Montero-Yodong (Mountain Province), Chrystel Mae Correos (Tandag City), and Jayka Munsayac (San Jose, Negros Oriental/Filipino Society of Bellevue, Washington).

Miss Universe PH 2026 Top 10 Finalists voted via Maya App

The remaining semifinalists will be named on May 2. Ten more candidates will be selected by the panel of judges, alongside five wild card picks and five brand awardees, completing a semifinal lineup of 30 candidates for the finals.

Gems of Misamis Occidental

One of the evening’s highlights was the announcement of the “Gems of Misamis Occidental,” with Nicole Borromeo of Cebu Province topping the list as Asenso Ambassadress of Goodwill for the Province.

The four other Gems were Trexy Paris Roxas of Iligan City as Asenso Ambassadress for Agriculture, Clarissa Westram of Cotabato for Education, Jacqueline Aluning of Nueva Vizcaya (Filipino Society of Washington) for Social Services, and Erica Jean Cadayday of Camiguin for Health.

The awardees are expected to support and promote the province’s priority programs in their respective sectors.

The fashion show and the Top 10 Reveal in Misamis Occidental underscores MUPH efforts to bring its major events to the regions while showcasing local destinations on a national scale.

PLOT TWIST: Imelda Schweighart is headed for Miss Grand International All Stars — not Miss Universe Philippines 2026

By Robert Requintina

Published Apr 7, 2026 09:04 pm

The rumors are over — it’s official! Imelda Schweighart will fly the Philippine flag at the inaugural Miss Grand International All Stars (1st Edition), in a stunning departure from her previously announced Miss Universe Philippines 2026 journey.

Imelda Schweighart (Facebook)

For days, the pageant world has been buzzing with wild speculation — whispers and rumors that Imelda had been dropped from the competition. Yet through it all, the MUPH organization stayed silent, fueling even more intrigue.

Fans went into a frenzy, throwing out bold theories that Imelda had been booted from the competition — but without a shred of hard evidence, it was all just noise. Until now.  Then, on April 6, everything changed. Miss Grand International made it official — announcing the stunning Filipino-German beauty queen to the world. Here’s the announcement straight from MIG.

'TictoClock' grand finalist Eula Bautista faints during performance

By Robert Requintina

Published Mar 11, 2026 06:58 am

Eula Bautista, a grand finalist at the Tanghalan ng Kampeon segment on 'TictoClock' on GMA Network, fainted in the middle of her performance on March 10.

Kuya Kim Atienza gives a statement about the emergency situation on 'TicktoClock' where contestant Eula Bautista fainted during her performance.

"Eula Bautista fainted in the middle of her back-to-back tapatan performance against Princess Palti. There was an emergency in the studio. Eula Bautista fainted. We had to take a commercial break, so our medical personnel could attend to Eula," said Kuya Kim Atienza during the show. "Right now, the medical team is observing Eula's condition."

Eula Bautista, a grand finalist at the Tanghalan ng Kampeon segment of the 'TictoClock' program on GMA, faints in the middle of her performance.

Judge Renz Verano added, "Our priority is Eula's health. We're hoping and praying that she's okay. This is the first time this has happened, so we are a little shocked."  

Eula was performing "Better Days" when she fainted. Renz urged viewers to pray for her.

"Whatever the judges decide, we will let you know tomorrow. We will give you an update on Eula's condition. For now, let's join in praying that Eula is safe and that nothing serious happened to her. Let's all be careful," Renz added.     

Update on Eula

Later, in a report by GMA News Online, "TiktoClock" program manager Charles Koo said Eula is fine now.

"We had a medic with us, and we assessed her medical condition. Eula had herself checked," Charles said. "Her oxygen rate was at 100 percent, her heart rate was normal, but her breath rate was a little high at 18 breaths per minute."

When Eula complained of a numbing upper lip, the medic said it must be anxiety. "So we put her on oxygen, sat her in a wheelchair, and relocated her to the dressing room, where she could rest and for further check."

Miss Universe Philippines 2026 reveals 51 candidates, expands public voting

 

By Annalyn S. Jusay

Published Feb 17, 2026 11:49 pm

The search for the next Filipina Miss Universe officially kicked off as 51 candidates vying for the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 crown were formally presented yesterday at the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila.

Wearing coordinated pink and red ensembles to reflect the period between Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, the candidates made their first collective appearance before members of the media, pageant partners, and fans.

Miss Universe Philippines 2026 candidates with Miss Universe 2025 3rd runner-up Ahtisa Manalo (center) - Photo by Melvin Sia

Prior to the indoor presentation, the delegates kicked off the festivities with a parade around the SM Mall of Asia complex, delighting pageant followers who gathered for an early glimpse of this year’s aspirants.   

Miss Universe Philippines officials also announced key updates for the 2026 edition, including the confirmation of Misamis Occidental as the official host province and local government partner. Pangasinan was also announced as the venue for the 2026 national costume competition.

New selection format

Miss Universe Philippines Vice President Voltaire Tayag said the organization is introducing a revamped selection process to increase transparency and public participation throughout the competition.“We are introducing a new selection format that is intended to rally public support for the delegates, while also showcasing transparency every step of the way,” Tayag said. “We are bringing the journey closer to Filipinos by allowing them to have a significant say in every stage of the pageant up to the semifinals.”

Under the new system, major preliminary segments - including the evening gown, swimsuit, and closed-door interview - will be filmed and recorded in March. These materials will then be released weekly as part of a multi-round public voting process.   

Starting April 5, the competition will roll out its first preliminary week with the evening gown segment, marking an earlier and more sustained evaluation period for the candidates.

All of the videos and photos will be released weekly through the different segments in every round,” Tayag said, noting that candidates are expected to remain at peak form as early as March. He added that designers were asked to complete their creations earlier than usual due to the adjusted timeline.

From left: Miss Tarlac, Miss Pampanga, and Miss La Union at the press presentation (Annalyn Jusay)

At the end of each voting period, a select number of delegates will advance to the next round, beginning with the swimsuit segment. Advancement will be determined through a combination of public votes via Maya app and selections made by the judging panel.

Candidates who do not advance through public voting will continue to participate in official events and provincial tours throughout April. Tayag stressed that delegates still have chances to move forward through selection panel choices, brand awards, and wildcard slots to be announced during the finals.

A new interactive feature will also be introduced during coronation night, allowing registered viewers to vote in real time as the candidates take the stage.

“Every moment matters. Every vote counts,” Tayag said. “Every stage of the competition is an opportunity to showcase your best.”

Showdown of pageant veterans   

This year’s competition is also shaping up to be a "puksaan"  with several seasoned pageant veterans joining the roster.

Among the candidates are Ysabella Ysmael of Taguig City, MUPH 2020 first runner-up; Apriel Smith of Cebu City, MUPH 2020 Top 16 finalist; Miss Earth-Water titleholders Bea Millan-Windorski of La Union and Roxie Baeyens of Baguio City; Nicole Borromeo, who finished as third runner-up at Miss International 2023; Justine Felizarta of Manila, first runner-up at Miss Tourism World 2023; Ashley Subijano of Luisiana, Laguna, a Miss Eco International 2023 semifinalist; and Imelda Schweighart of Kalibo, Aklan, a resigned former Miss Philippines-Earth 2016.

Miss Universe Philippines officials led by CEO Jonas Gaffud (center) with Miss Universe 2025 3rd runner-up Ahtisa Manalo. (Annalyn Jusay)

Here's the complete list of Miss Universe Philippines 2026 candidates and the provinces they represent:

Albay – Alexandra Krishna Orino

Bacolod City – Megan Larisse Baldevia

Bacoor City – Felicia Fran Aldana

Baguio City – Roxie Baeyens

Batangas – Kathleen Dale Casenas

Cabanatuan City (Filipino Society of Alberta, Canada) – Princess Kyla Hernandez

Camiguin – Erica Jean Cadayday

Cavite – Jencel Cana

Cebu City – Apriel Smith

Cebu Province – Nicole Borromeo

Cotabato – Clarissa Westram

Dasmariñas City – Tyra Jane Godino

Iligan City – Trexy Paris Roxas

Ilocos Norte (Filipino Society of Hawaii) – Charieze Lianne Cacayorin

Iloilo City – Zestah Espinosa

Iloilo Province – Nicklyn Jutay

Isabela – Prima Joy Alamban

Kalibo, Aklan – Imelda Schweighart

Laguna – Ysabel Cecilia Prats

Las Piñas (Filipino Society of Florida) – Avegail Eusebio Kultsar

La Union – Bea Millan-Windorski

Leyte – Kareyl May Cabahug

Los Baños, Laguna – Scarlett de Mesa

Luisiana, Laguna – Ashley Victoria Subijano

Manila – Justin Beatrice Dellosa Felizarta

Mountain Province – Lyneree Montero-Yodong

Muntinlupa – Adela Mae Marshall

Negros Occidental – Alexandria Colmenares

Negros Oriental – Ma. Fatima Alsowyed

Nueva Ecija (Filipino Society of the United Kingdom) – Michelle Tantoco Burchell

Nueva Vizcaya (Filipino Society of Washington) – Jacqueline Aluning

Occidental Mindoro – Neil Silva

Palawan – Aviona Dass

Pampanga – Allyson Hetland

Pangasinan – Donna Rein Nuguid

Parañaque (Filipino Society of Los Angeles) – Maria Pauline Galvez

Pateros – Kristen Joy Marcelino

Quezon Province (Filipino Society of Australia) – Patricia Ella Evangelista

Rizal (Filipino Society of Southern California) – Alicia Chelsea Buendia

Samar Island – Catherine Wardle

San Carlos City – Rose Ann Albania

San Jose, Negros Oriental (Filipino Society of Bellevue, Washington) – Jayka Noelle Munsayac

Santo Tomas, La Union (Filipino Society of Seattle, Washington) – Rachel Hanna Gozum

Sarangani (Filipino Society of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) – Nicole Cruz

Southern Leyte – Renee Rose Patual

Sultan Kudarat – Jenrose Javier

Taal, Batangas (Filipino Society of Northern California) – Juliana Hope Aquino

Tacloban City – Jacqueline Gulrajani

Taguig – Maria Ysabella R. Ysmael

Tandag City – Chrystel Mae Correos

Tarlac – Marian ArellanoTuguegarao City - Janica Francen Aquino

Tuguegarao City - Janica Francen Aquino

Kuh Ledesma and The Music & Magic reunite for an intimate two-night concert at Hacienda Isabella

 

By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Published Jan 13, 2026 05:43 pm

Some music simply doesn’t age — it deepens and surpasses the passage of time.

Kuh Ledesma

This coming Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, 2026, legendary Filipino artist Kuh Ledesma reunites with one of the most iconic showbands of the late 1970s for a rare and intimate two-night concert event titled Kuh Ledesma and The Music & Magic.

Set against the lush and serene backdrop of Hacienda Isabella (8 Carasuchi St., Barangay Carasuchi, Indang, Cavite), the reunion unfolds at the newly opened A.R.T.E. (Arts. Restaurant. Entertainment) Theater — offering audiences more than a concert as it’s a thoughtfully curated evening of music, memories, fine food, and shared narratives.

The Music & Magic was one of the most prominent and phenomenal showbands of its time, shaping a golden era of live entertainment with sophistication, soul, and musical excellence.

Today, decades later, its members come together once more — not to recreate the past, but to celebrate it with gratitude and grace.

Joining Kuh onstage are original members Fe De Los Reyes, Jet Montelibano (who is also co-stage director with Kuh), and Vicky Sevilla-Pangilinan, with musical direction by Bobby Taylo.

Also part of the concert are Butch Elizalde and Nonoy Mendoza, along with a surprise sampling of new generation guest artists — bridging eras and affirming that great music continues to inspire across generations.

“This reunion isn’t about nostalgia alone,” Kuh shares. “It’s about honoring the journey — the friendships, the music, and the quiet miracles that happen when people come together with purpose.”

Guests are invited to arrive early and ease into the evening beginning at 6 pm with a cozy dinner at Constant Garden, followed by the 8 pm concert at the A.R.T.E. Theater — all within the fabulous grounds of Hacienda Isabella.

With Cavite’s calm countryside, the experience is designed for couples, friends, and lifelong music lovers who appreciate moments that linger long after the final note.

Known not only for her extraordinary voice but also for a life anchored in faith, Kuh brings a quiet spiritual depth to the evening — one that penetrates the soul.

Her artistry reflects gratitude, reflection, and a belief in music as a blessing meant to uplift.

“Music has always been a way for me to express gratitude,” Kuh says. “When it’s shared with people you love, in a place that invites stillness and joy — that’s where the real magic happens.”

For ticket inquiries, visit Kuh Ledesma on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/share/1KQ6PTvwZ1/ and follow @kuhledesma on Instagram. If you ever danced, fell in love, or found comfort in their music — this reunion is definitely for you. (Robert Requintina)

Aiai Delas Alas revives recording career with new single 'Haliparot Delulu'

By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Published Nov 9, 2025 09:06 am

Aiai Delas Alas

Seasoned GMA star Aiai Delas Alas steps back into the music scene as AADA, who just released her novelty song, “Haliparot Delulu” under the Kapamilya label StarPop in celebration of her 35th year in the industry.

The multi-awarded actress, comedienne, and singer, whose legacy spans film, music, and television, brings her signature humor and charisma to her comeback dance-pop single after 11 years.

“After 11 years bilang lucky number ko siya,” shared Aiai, who is celebrating her birthday on Nov. 11.

The bold and fun pop anthem boasts of a reminder to stop chasing ghosters and turns modern dating chaos into a playful empowering moment.

It was composed by StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos and ABS-CBN Music creatives, content, and operations head Jonathan Manalo and arranged, mixed, and mastered by Theo Martel.

AADA’s “Haliparot Delulu” is now available on music streaming platforms. (Robert Requintina)

Kathryn Bernardo sees gold in contemporary dance act in ' Pilipinas Got Talent'

 

By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Published May 14, 2025 15:06 pm

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.

Fil-Am composer Susie Ibarra bags Pulitzer Prize for music

 

Filipino-American composer Susie Ibarra (Facebook)

By Carissa Alcantara

Published May 13, 2025 11:57 am

Pinoy pride indeed! 

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.

Puregold OPMCON 2025 is coming: Tickets drop this May at Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention

By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

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. 

BINI tells fans: 'Nagkamali kami'

 

By Robert Requintina

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."

Colet/Stacey/Jhoanna/Aiah/Maloi/Gwen/Mikha/Sheena."

A heavenly mix of laughter and emotion: 'Isang Komedya sa Langit' hits cinemas this May

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Apr 29, 2025 06:50 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Set to premiere nationwide on May 28, 2025, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey filled with joy, reflection, and a touch of magic.

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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.

Do you want to be a star?

Launch your acting career with Callback’s inaugural workshop for aspiring Filipino actors

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Apr 29, 2025 00:20 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Launched in August 2024, Callback is Asia's first digital casting platform, built to make the casting process faster, safer, and more inclusive.

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'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!