'We need live shows more than ever': Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound gather for ALT.CHESTRA

By Manila Bulletin Newsroom

Published Jun 29, 2026 05:15 pm

"ALT.CHESTRA" is the latest showcase series by GNN, bringing together alternative musicians for live performances backed by an 11-piece orchestra. The result transforms beloved songs into lush, strings-heavy and brass-filled arrangements typically heard only in grand concert halls.

Leading the inaugural presentation are three of the country's most beloved acts—Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound. 

For "Raining in Manila" hitmakers Lola Amour, whose catalog spans funk, jazz, rock, and emotional ballads, hearing their signature grooves and intricate arrangements performed by a full ensemble feels like a natural progression.  

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Meanwhile, Over October's atmospheric soundscapes and introspective songwriting already carry a cinematic quality. Songs like "Ikot" seem destined to be accompanied by sweeping string sections, giving them the emotional depth of a memorable film score.

For Shirebound, whose folk-inspired storytelling shines through songs such as "Waltz of Four Left Feet" and "Pahintulot," orchestral arrangements feel equally fitting. Tales of youth, longing, fantasy, and adventure naturally lend themselves to the grandeur and emotion of a live ensemble.

But "ALT.CHESTRA Vol. 1" is more than an orchestral novelty—it's a statement.

At a time when algorithms optimize songs for streaming and AI can generate endless playlists in seconds, the concert argues that indie music deserves the same scale, drama, and permanence often reserved for film scores and classical masterworks.

That conviction extended beyond the performances. During the event's media conference, the artists emphasized that live music has become even more essential in the age of AI.   

"We need live shows more than ever," said the members of Over October, Shirebound, and Lola Amour.

As with any concert built around familiar songs, audiences—whether they're Lola Amour's "apos," Over October's Octobears, or longtime fans of Shirebound's understated charm—will undoubtedly realize that these tracks would have sounded great regardless of the new arrangements.

Still, "ALT.CHESTRA" promises something far more special: a rare musical experience that can only happen when the right artists, the right audience, and the right moment come together on one stage. (Ian Ureta)

Myrtle Sarrosa phone theft: Tracker trail ends, possible ransom claims surface

 By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Published Jun 17, 2026 07:02 pm

Sarrosa said her family was initially able to trace the phone’s movement from Pasay City to Quezon City using tracking features, passing through Commonwealth, Fairview, and Mindanao Avenue. At one point, she said someone briefly answered a call from the device before cutting it off.

The situation took a turn when the phone stopped transmitting its location. “The tracker stopped moving. The phone suddenly went offline,” Sarrosa said, marking the point where recovery efforts stalled.  

She also said communication with the person currently holding the device appears to have shifted away from a simple return arrangement. “It doesn’t feel like the goal is simply returning the phone anymore,” she said. “Right now, it feels like the goal is to get more money.”

Online speculation about the contents of the phone has also circulated, but Sarrosa firmly dismissed claims that it contains sensitive or scandalous material. “My faith, values, and principles would never be compromised,” she said, stressing that the device only holds personal files, work materials, and creative archives.

Despite the developments, Sarrosa continues to appeal for the phone’s return and remains open to honoring the original ₱30,000 reward. “Ang hiling ko lang po sana ay maibalik ang phone ko,” she earlier said in her appeal, noting the device contains irreplaceable memories and professional content.

She also thanked ToyCon organizers, security personnel, and authorities who assisted during the initial search efforts.  

As of the latest update, the phone has not been recovered, and its current location remains unknown. (Ian Ureta)