Philippines' Yashna Sharma wins 1st runner-up at Miss Teen Icon International 2025

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

May 27, 2025 | 9:39am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines' bet Yashna Sumir Sharma won as 1st runner-up at Miss Teen Icon International 2025.

Yashna was followed by Sascha Lee Daniel from South Africa, Kanika Kun from Cambodia, Nadya Christy Cinta from Indonesia and Zoe Allué from Spain. 

In her Instagram account, Yashna reflected on her pageant journey. 

"And just like that, I'm holding a crown after my 3 weeks surreal journey," she wrote. 

"When others had months to prepare, I only had 2 weeks before the pageant. Looking back, I feel so grateful for all things to come together with ease. In between fittings, pasarela practice, shoots, I felt so ready!" she declared.

"The end of one phase, beginning of another."

BINI's 'Zero Pressure' performance video tops YouTube chart

 

BINI is made up of members (clockwise, from top left) Aiah, Maloi, Stacey, Gwen, Colet, Jhoanna, Mikha and Sheena.

The STAR / File

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com,

May 22, 2025 | 1:09pm

MANILA, Philippines — “Nation’s Girl Group” BINI’s performance video for their new single “Zero Pressure” has topped YouTube’s “Trending for music” with over a million views as of writing. 

Their first official performance video since “Pantropiko,” it was shot in A:Museum in Ayala Malls Manila Bay, featuring fresh choreography by RENAN and KITKAT, who have previously choreographed for popular girl groups like Aespa, I-dle, and XG. 

It was released in time for the group’s “BINIverse World Tour,” which rolled out with a sold-out concert in Dubai last Sunday (May 18) and will continue in the United Kingdom, United States and Canada. 

“Zero Pressure” is part of the “BINIverse" EP released last February. It was made in the same music camp as “Cherry On Top,” written by Melanie Fontana, Elle Campbell, and Michel Schulz, along with Skylar Mones who produced the song together with Lindgren. 

Newly discovered flower named after Doris Bigornia

 Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

May 5, 2025 | 11:25am 

 

MANILA, Philippines — A newly discovered flower species has been named after ABS-CBN reporter Doris Bigornia. 

Begonia dorisiae was one of the two species discovered in Eastern Mindanao recently. 

"The specific epithet dorisiae is a tribute to broadcaster Doris Bigornia whose name became an informal, yet very useful monicker of the genus Begonia especially for local communities," the study's authors said.

"Many Filipino botanists, particularly in this series of expeditions, find that the easiest way to make citizens remember the genus Begonia is to associate it with ‘Bigornia.' 

"Across different islands and demographics, the best way to capture citizens’ interest when communicating the biology of Philippine Begonia is, in fact, Doris Bigornia."

The researchers discovered the flowers in the municipality of Caraga in Davao Oriental. 

Arci Muñoz recalls relationship with Brunei prince

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

March 25, 2025 | 10:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Actress Arci Muñoz revealed that she once had a relationship with a Brunei prince. 

In her interview with Boy Abunda, Arci said she had the time of her life with the prince. 

“He is such a great guy. I had the best time of my life. It’s simple yet luxurious at the same time because this person is so simple. Yet with his estado niya sa life, he doesn’t really use that," Arci said.  

"He’s so down to earth. He makes me feel like a queen. He’s a nice guy. He’s so humble. Like sometimes he runs away from the bantay (body guard). Kasi he wants his privacy also and freedom. And he’s very cool,” she added. 

Though she and the prince no longer communicate, Arci said that she learned a lot from the relationship. 

“You just can’t love somebody that much. Kasi parang we had this really deep connection and he set the standards so high. Natutunan ko tuloy ang hirap na mag-boyfriend ngayon," she said. 

"But I’m so happy for him. If I see him, which has never happened yet, I wanna tell him how happy I am for him. ‘Coz our relationship, kahit na we didn’t end up together, I admit na talagang, it’s just solid, it’s fun, unforgettable. We had a great time,” she added. 

Hiligaynon film, Mindanao short win Cinepanalo Film Festival 2025

Puregold CinePanalo’s student filmmakers along with Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad (fifth from left, back row); festival director Chris Cahilig (sixth from left, back row); representatives from the festival’s partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund; and members of the festival’s selection committee.

The STAR / File

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

March 21, 2025 | 9:01am

At the awarding ceremony in The Elements, Eton Centris in Quezon City early this week, “Salum” took home four Puregold CinePanalo trophies in the full-length category namely: Panalong Pelikula, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalo sa Sound Design, and Panalo sa Musical Scoring as well as a cash prize of P250,000.

Meanwhile, “Champ Green” received a P100,000 cash prize and five trophies in the student shorts category including Panalong Maikling Pelikula, Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Sol Eugenio, Panalo sa Kwento, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and Mowelfund Special Citation. 

In addition, “Champ Green,” being the students shorts winner, also won film equipment including a Black Mist, a Dream Filter, a Blue Lightstreak Filter from MFP Rentals and Kase Philippines; a Nanlite FC 60B with Merch from MQ Group and Nanlite Philippines; and a Hollyland Lark C1 Wireless Microphone from Sieztech Enterprize and Hollyland Tech Philippines.

“Champ Green” also won an extra P25,000 for winning the Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, as did fellow short film “G!” and full-length film “Journeyman” who won the same award; as well as “Checkmate and Taympers,” who similarly tied for Pinakapanalong Promosyon ng Pelikula. Each of these sponsors gladly awarded “Champ Green” with the equipment in order to support the development of young Filipino filmmakers such as “Champ Green” director Clyde Cuizon Gamale.

In the full-length category, another Hiligaynon film “Tigkiliwi” nabbed seven trophies including Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado and Panalo sa Kwento for its writer-director Tara Illenberger. The charming film about a community of misfits swept the acting awards categories including Panalong Aktres for Ruby Ruiz, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Jeffrey Jiruma.  

In an interesting turn of events, two ties were declared during the awards night. The Panalong Aktor trophy was shared between JP Larroder as “Tigkiliwi’s Tata,” and Khalil Ramos as the titular Olsen in “Olsen’s Day” while both “Journeyman” and “Olsen’s Day” were declared the winners of the Panalo sa Cinematography category. Meanwhile, JP Habac of “Olsen’s Day” bagged the Panalong Direktor award. 

“Journeyman” by the sibling-tandem of Christian Paolo and Dominic Lat took home a total of six trophies namely: Panalo Sa International Jury, Panalo sa Cinematography (tie with “Olsen’s Day”), Panalo sa Film Poster, the MTRCB Special Award for Responsableng Paglikha, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and the Puregold Always Panalo Film which it shared with the romantic-comedy film “Fleeting” by Catsi Catalan. 

For the student shorts, “Uwian,” directed by Panalong Direktor winner Vhan Marco Molacruz of Colegio de San Juan de Letran crushed the competition, winning five different awards including Panalong Direktor, Panalo sa Musical Scoring, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalong Aktres for Geraldine Villamil, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktres for Uzziel Delamide. 

Other notable entries to the student shorts category included Sean Rafael Verdejo’s absurdist dramedy “Dela Cruz, Juan P.,” which took home Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado; as well as Ira Corinne Esguerra’s coming-of-age sibling story “SamPie,” which took home the Puregold Always Panalo Film award.

Each award was deliberated upon by an impressive lineup of qualified judges, including Festival Director Christopher Cahilig, Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, and Republic Creative Creations, Inc. representative Sonny Bautista, each of whom sat on both the student shorts and full-length jury panels. Joining them on the students shorts panel were directors Emmanuel Dela Cruz and Victor Villanueva, as well as film critic Lito Zulueta. The full-length jury panel, on the other hand, consisted of Cahilig, Hayagan-Piedad, and Bautista, as well as directors Jeffrey Jeturian and Mae Cruz-Alviar, writer and producer Moira Lang, and Estonian filmmaker Tiina Lokk, the festival director of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.

This year’s CinePanalo saw increased grants for all entries, with P3,000,000 grants for full-length entries, and P150,000 grants for student shorts. The festival was also supported in large part by its partner organizations Terminal Six Post, CMB Film Services Inc., Gateway Cineplex 18, MFP Rentals, the MTRCB and the Mowelfund Film Institute.

“The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival will always be fueled by a deep love for the art of cinema, and an even deeper ambition to show what Philippine talent and passion has to offer,” said Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “With the CinePanalo having reached a successful second edition, the possibilities are now endless. We can’t wait for all the wonderful films yet to grace the Puregold CinePanalo in all the years to come.”

“Salum,” “Champ Green,” and all the other full-length and student short films of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2025 will continue to screen exclusively at the Gateway Cineplex 18, Cubao, Quezon City until the closing of the festival on March 25. Regular tickets are P250, with discounts available for students, PWDs, seniors, Tindahan ni Aling Puring, and Perks Card members for P200. Meanwhile, festival passes for the entire experience cost P2,000, granting holders entrance to all official movie entries.

Star Magic launches new talents, including Janine Gutierrez's brother Diego

 

Star Magic launches new talents, including Janine Gutierrez's brother Diego, Esang, James Philippe, Jarlo Base and Diego Gutierrez

Philstar.com / Jan Milo Severo

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

March 13, 2025 | 10:32am

MANILA, Philippines — Star Magic introduced a new roster of emerging artists, including Esang, James Philippe, Jarlo Base and Diego Gutierrez, in a contract signing and concert held early this week in Noctos Music Bar, Quezon City.

The event marks a new chapter in their careers as they officially join the country's premier talent management agency. Attended by family, friends, and ABS-CBN executives, the four singer-songwriters expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to hone their craft and showcase their talents on a bigger stage. 

The event titled "Magical Vibes: Star Magic Music Room Contract Signing" was graced by the presence of ABS-CBN TV Production and Star Magic Head Laurenti Dyogi, ABS-CBN Music Head Roxy Liquigan, Head of Digital Services and Business Development Ms. Elaine Uy-Casipit, Head of Star Magic Special Events and Digital and Senior Talent Manager, Love Almazan-Capulong, ABS-CBN Business Unit Head Sir Raymond Dizon, and Creative Director of ABS-CBN Music Jonathan Manalo, who all expressed their confidence in the new batch of Star Magic artists.

Best known for her vocal prowess and stage presence, Esang joined “The Voice Kids Philippines” Season 2 where she was mentored by the Tony Award award recipient Lea Salonga. During the launch event, it was Salonga who introduced her, recognizing her as a promising talent. 

BINI emotionally renews contract with ABS-CBN, thanks Blooms for support

BINI is made up of members (clockwise) Aiah, Maloi, Stacey, Gwen, Colet, Jhoanna, Mikha and Sheena

The STAR / File

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

February 5, 2025 | 1:22pm

MANILA, Philippines — "Nation's Girl Group" BINI emotionally renewed their contract with ABS-CBN.

At the contract signing held in Dolphy Theater yesterday, Jhoanna, Stacey, Maloi, Aiah, Sheena, Gwen, Colet and Mikha thanked ABS-CBN for trusting them since the beginning. 

“Kinakabahan, natutuwa and sobrang grateful lang kami for this day. This contract signing is not just a milestone, it’s a promise that palagi naming gagalingan," Jhoanna said. 

“We will continue working hard and grow as artists. Thank you so much, ABS-CBN, dahil kasama namin sila sa mga susunod naming taon sa pagtupad nang mas marami pa naming pangarap,” she added. 

“Thank you because you are the very first ones who believed in us when we were still in our teenage years. Mostly sa amin away from our family and friends and it was really hard for us," Aiah said. 

“We trusted you po and thank you so much for trusting us as well. We are going to keep trusting you until we are on our 30s or how many years to come… Thank you so much because you allowed us to be us,” she added. 

Mikha thanked Blooms around the world for supporting them in their journey. 

“Kita niyo naman na-appreciate namin ‘yung ginagawa niyo ‘di ba? Sobrang nakakatuwa lang kasi never naming in-expect na may mga Blooms na makakapansin sa mga bagay na hindi namin in-expect na mapapansin nila na they really show genuine care sa amin," Mikha said. 

“To have you guys in this journey of us, we would just like to say, thank you Blooms!” she added. 

Stacey recalled their journey to become the hottest female P-pop group right now. 

“Grabe din kasi ‘yung journey naming BINI, ‘yung talagang pinaghirapan namin kung nasaan kami ngayon.

“Grabe, kasi lahat kami ‘yung nakikita niyong walo rito, nag-audition talaga kami, pinilahan namin kung nasaan kami ngayon. Super thank you sa mga nagtiwala sa amin.

“'Yung mga pangarap namin na mina-manifest namin before unti-unti na siyang natutupad. Thank you so much for the blessing and — walo hanggang dulo,” she said. 

Apart from Blooms, Maloi thanked her co-BINI members for the friendship. 

“Hindi namin kayo kilala isa-isa, ‘di namin kayo nakakausap, nahahawakan, nayayakap pero 'yung pagmamahal na ibinibigay niyo sa kahit anong way, nararamdaman namin. Maraming, maraming salamat Blooms," she said. 

“Gusto ko lang din magpasalamat sa BINI,  thank you for this life, thank you for giving me life. Thank you for being part of my life. And let’s live this life happily kahit marami tayong pagdadaanan. Alam ko na itong buhay na ito, ito ang ikukuwento natin sa lahat. Thank you so much,” she added. 

BINI is set to release their new single "Blink Twice" next week before performing in the Philippine Arena for the first stop of their world tour. 

Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo recognized as Alumna Achiever by De La Salle Araneta University

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

January 28, 2025 | 4:24pm

MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo was recognized by her alma mater as Gawad Lasallianeta 2025-Lasallians' Choice Award as well as with an Alumna Achiever award.

In her Instagram account, Chelsea shared photos of her recognition given at De La Salle Araneta University in Malabon. 

"Grateful and honored to receive not just one but two incredible recognitions!" she wrote. 

"Thank you, DLSAU Alumni Association, Inc., for recognizing me as an Alumna Achiever and for the Gawad Lasallianeta 2025-Lasallians’ Choice Award. These milestones inspire me to keep striving and representing our community with pride," she added. 

Last week, Chelsea was the special guest in GMA-7's "All-Out Sunday." She sang a song and dedicated it to her fans. 

She also visited Hope for Change organization last month. The organization envisions to eradicate the effects of hunger, illiteracy, and disease ravishing impoverished communities.

Chelsea is the first beauty queen to be crowned Miss Universe Asia. 

FASHION AND BEAUTY: 'Pretty since day one': Andrea Brillantes denies getting plastic surgery

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

January 2, 2025 | 12:12pm

MANILA, Philippines — Andrea Brillantes denied the basher's claim that she underwent plastic surgery after she was named the “Most Beautiful Face in 2024” by the UK-based TC Candler and the Independent Critics.

Andrea posted a TikTok video where she wrote "My face card at nine years old.” It was a reply to a netizen who asked, "Baka ginawa ni doc?" The video shows a compilation of Andrea's photos since she was young. 

“Pretty since day one baby. Pretty with or without enchantments,” she captioned the post. 

Andrea led the seven Filipinas, including former No. 1 Liza Soberano and new entry BINI’s Aiah, in the list of 100 most beautiful faces of 2024 by the global beauty poll. 

Andrea bested the likes of Jisoo and Rose of Blacpink, American actress Sydney Sweeney, Korean-American K-pop idol Nancy McDonie, and Chris Evans’ wife, Portuguese actress Alba Baptista. 

After Andrea, Janine Gutierrez entered the list for the fourth year at the 28th spot. 

Actresses Belle Mariano and Ivana Alawi also figured in the list at the 52nd and 69th spot, respectively. 

Small Laude reveals naughty side growing up

 Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

December 29, 2024 | 5:02pm

MANILA, Philippines — Popular content creator Small Laude revealed that she grew up as a naughty kid in school.

In her speech during the 120th founding anniversary of Manila Central University (MCU), Small said her mother was always summoned by her school. 

“Before, 'yung madre lagi akong pinapaluhod sa flag pole dahil very naughty ako. Siyempre, ako naman takot na takot sa mom ko kasi lagi siyang pinapatawag sa school,” she said as the crowd laughed.

“Then my sister told me, 'Small, please tama na,' hanggang grumaduate siya. Sunod 'yung isa ko namang sister ang nagsasabi na, 'Small, ano ba pinapatawag na naman si Mama,'” she added. 

MCU celebrated its 120th founding anniversary by hosting the first-ever Filemon D. Tanchoco (FDT) Scientific Discoverer Award Ceremony. Held on December 4 at the MCU Helix Auditorium, the event highlighted the university’s legacy of driving innovation and academic excellence forward. 

The university also paid tribute to MCU founder Atty. Filemon D. Tanchoco Sr. and his vision of uplifting communities through education, research, and innovation.

The FDT Scientific Discoverer Award was established to honor individuals whose groundbreaking discoveries advance knowledge and “redound the welfare of the Filipino people.”

At the first-ever award ceremony, MCU named Prima Joy F. Margarito, Reynaldo L. Esguerra, Rochelle L. Retamar, Dante C. Vergara, Rodelma D. Perez, Engel Ryan G. Ibarra, and Reymundo K. Adan as the pioneer FDT Scientific Discoverer Awardees for their revolutionary mobile water disinfection system, “SafeWaTrS.” 

The “SafeWaTrS” mobile water treatment system is a compact, mobile, and energy self-sufficient innovation designed to address water scarcity in disaster-stricken and remote areas. The groundbreaking system serves as a lifeline for communities struck by calamities, emergencies, disruptions in water supplies, and communities residing in rural areas where clean water is scarce.

Unlike traditional systems dependent on fixed infrastructure and electricity, SafeWaTrs operates on solar energy. This makes the system resilient and versatile even in the most resource-constrained environments. Through a multi-step process, SafeWaTrs combines chemical treatment, advanced filtration, and UV sterilization to clean water.

Trevor Magallanes confirms divorce with Rufa Mae Quinto

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com 

MANILA, Philippines — Actress Rufa Mae Quinto's husband Trevor Magallanes revealed that they are in the process of getting divorced.

In his Instagram story, Trevor said that he needs to explain the status of his marriage with Rufa. 

"Hey guys, I felt like I need to explain myself based on social media and all that. I want to make myself clear that Rufa Mae and I are in the process of a divorce," he said. 

"You may be aware that divorce can be very devastating to the children but also to the parents. That said, my marriage has been a s*** show and I am sorry for that," 

Trevor said that he wanted to spend more time with their daughter Athena after the divorce. 

"All that matters to me at this time is getting through the divorce as best as I can and spending time with Athena. Happy holidays!" he wrote. 

Hev Abi, BINI among top local artists on Spotify Philippines

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

December 5, 2024 | 11:53am

MANILA, Philippines — Original Pilipino Music (OPM) artists Hev Abi and BINI topped this year's Spotify Wrapped Philippines’ Top Local Artist. 

Rounding out the list of top local artists are balladeers Arthur Nery, TJ Monterde, and folk-pop band Ben&Ben, showcasing the breadth of talent and genres captivating Filipino fans.

"’Di naman siya nakakagulat para sa akin — lahat naman siguro ng artist gusto maging leading in some way, somehow. Pero gusto ko rin isipin na hindi siya nakakagulat para maging steady ka lang, grateful lang lagi," Hev said in a statement. 

“Ako naman ginagawa ko lang ‘yung music na gusto kong mapakinggan. 'Yung recognition ng mga tao, ng Spotify, bonus na lang. Thankful ako na maraming nag-eenjoy at nakaka-relate sa music ko, which is ‘yun na rin siguro 'yung reason kung bakit nasasabi na nire-represent ko ‘yung new sound ng Pinoy hip-hop.”

Hev Abi’s “Babaero” is this year's Spotify Wrapped Philippines’ Top Song followed by Maki’s “Dilaw,” Dionela’s “Sining,” Hev’s “Walang Alam,” and BINI’s “Pantropiko.”

“2024 has been an incredible year. We’re thrilled to celebrate the vibrant and diverse music landscape through Wrapped, a reflection of how fans connect and champion their favorite artists on Spotify,” said Gustav Back, Managing Director for Southeast Asia. 

“Pinoy music continues to break into new spaces like never before and we're excited to continue working closely with local creators to bring their crafts to more audiences,” he added. 

Coming in as the Philippines Top Artist of 2024 is Taylor Swift, followed by Hev Abi, Ariana Grande, BINI and Bruno Mars.

Eva Noblezada graces magazine cover's Christmas, New Year issue

 

Stage actress Eva Noblezada in the cover of Vogue Philippines December-January issue 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Stage actress Eva Noblezada is the face of Vogue Philippines' December 2024-January 2025 issue. 

Shot by Harold Julian in New York and wearing Schiaparelli and Marc Jacobs, the fashion editorial showed the Broadway and West End star as she shared the spiritual side of inhabiting a role. 

“Even if I’m feeling anxious, the second I go into my character and I begin that transformation, I use that energy and transform that into part of my character, my voice, or the way that I move,” Eva said. 

“By the end of the show, my body might be exhausted, but my spirit feels refreshed, renewed,” she added.

The issue is inspired by homecoming, heritage, personal spaces, and community, concepts that pervade in this beloved season. Filipino Christmas traditions is the focal point in an editorial shot by Colin Dancel and styled by David Milan, framed by an essay by author Ige Ramos.

“From the early morning calls to prayer at Simbang Gabi to the joyful gatherings of Noche Buena, each custom reflects deep-rooted values of faith, community, generosity, and love,” he wrote.

Also in this issue: Civil rights activist and astronaut Amanda Nguyen shares her fight for all women; the closets of Monet Recio Schemm and Jason Dhakal; Mary Katrantzou’s debut collection for Bulgari; Robby Sylianteng and the First United Building’s creative rebirth; Leah Puyat’s thoughts on girlhood; and a colorful holiday wish list.

Meanwhile, Donny Pangilinan is on the cover of Vogue Man Philippines. In the cover feature, he said he loves being part of change.  

“I’m in a position to help improve the lives of others around me and those who don't have the same privilege and have so much potential to be so much more. I love that I can be a vessel,” he said. 

“Being part of change in general will always be something that I look for and be hungry for when I do anything. I love seeing other people happy, especially the ones I love,” he added.

Other stories of change and new chapters in the magazine include: A new fashion vocabulary is expressed in Rajo Laurel’s new men’s collection, which fleshes out his creative process and a renewed sense of exploration; the lessons that Michael Concepcion learned in his life’s journey, which is now rooted in family.

“Time and traditions overlap, creating an outward ring of familiar events, each year more layered than the last,” wrote editor-in-chief Bea Valdes. “Our histories are told in a spectrum of Balikbayan boxes, in the changing versions of our hanging Parols, in the shifting chill of Simbang Gabi. This season opens a gateway to ritual and nostalgia, drawing us back to places that remember us as children — once small and sacred.”

Rufa Mae Quinto to voluntarily surrender, warrant of arrest like in Neri Naig case confirmed — lawyer

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

December 3, 2024 | 8:48am

MANILA, Philippines — Atty. Mary Louise Reyes confirmed that her client Rufa Mae Quinto has a warrant of arrest. 

In a report by "24 Oras," Reyes said that Quinto is charged with 14 counts of violations of Section 8 of the Securities Regulation Code in relation to the issue of Dermacare, the same company involved with the incarceration of former actress Neri Naig-Miranda.

Quinto, however, is not facing an Estafa complaint, unlike Neri, so she can post bail. 

"She will face those charges... mag-voluntary surrender siya and magpo-post po kami ng bail for that. She's worried kasi hindi naman totoo 'yung allegations kasi my client po is just a brand ambassador, a model-endorser," Reyes said.

"Ni hindi sa kanya nakapagbayad ng down payment, tapos 'yung mga tseke po puro tumalbog. Lahat po 'yan hawak naman po namin 'yung ebidensya, ipe-present namin sa court," she added. 

Neri was arrested in a mall in Pasay City last November 23.

The arrest warrant was reportedly served for Neri because of 14 counts of violation of Securities Regulation Code. Bail was set at P126,000.00 for each of the counts, amounting to over P1.7 million or almost P2 million in total, but the Estafa case has no stated bail.

Jennylyn Mercado returns to GMA 2024 Christmas Station ID

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Actress Jennylyn Mercado returned to GMA's 2024 Christmas Station ID after her absence last year, shutting down rumors of network transfer.

Jennylyn and husband Dennis Trillo were seen in the station ID doing a seasonal cheer. 

Fans celebrated Jennylyn's inclusion in the station ID. 

"Nasa Christmas Station ID ng GMA si Jennylyn Mercado!!! SA WAKAS!!!," an X user wrote. 

Last July, Jennylyn revealed that she's a freelancer because she hasn't signed a new contract with GMA.

Jennylyn said that she still wanted to be a Kapuso. 

"Sa GMA naman po siyempre, palagi naman akong Kapuso, ang daming nag-aantay ng sagot kung lilipat ba," she said.  

"Ako naman, 20 years na po akong Kapuso and I am very thankful na hanggang ngayon po ay ako po ay Kapuso pa rin, mayroon pa rin mga nini-nego (negotiate), pero mabilis na lang po iyan, so we're just waiting for the contract pero happy pa rin naman ako maging Kapuso, basta gusto pa rin nila ako 'di ba?" she added. 

WATCH: Chelsea Manalo sizzles at Miss Universe 2024 swimsuit competition

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

November 15, 2024 | 2:16pm

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines' bet Chelsea Manalo slayed the runway of Miss Universe 2024 swimsuit competition during the preliminary round earlier today. 

During Chelsea's runway walk, preliminary round host Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel described Chelsea's advocacy of helping the children of overseas Filipino workers. 

"After graduating from college, Chelsea landed a job in the hospitality industry," R'Bonney said.

"She uses her platform to alleviate the problems encountered by children of migrant workers," she added. 

Earlier in the competition, Chelsea wore the "Hiraya" costume for the National Costume competition. 

Her national costume, Chelsea said, "is a symbolism of the far and profound history and relationship between the Philippines and Mexico." Thus, it bears an image of the Black Madonna, the Our Lady of Antipolo, one of the religious images brought to the Philippines through a galleon trade with Mexico, host country of the 2024 Miss Universe

Dua Lipa turns Philippine Arena into biggest party night club

 Dua Lipa during her 'Radical Optimism' tour in Philippine Arena

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

November 14, 2024 | 11:21am

MANILA, Philippines — International pop star Dua Lipa turned the Philippine Arena in Bocaue into a night club as thousands of Filipinos danced the night away all throughout the Manila-leg concert of her "Radical Optimism" tour, presented by Live Nation Philippines.

Dua opened the concert with "Training Season," "One Kiss," "Illusion," "End of an Era," "Break My Heart," "Whatcha Doing" and "Levitating."

The Grammy Award winner said that she's excited to perform once again in the Philippines.

"I'm very excited to be here tonight because it's been a long time since I've been here in Manila," she said. 

@jmilsev22 Dua Lipa performs New Rules X Electricity in Philippine Arena. #Fyp #LiveNationPhilippines #DuaLipa ? original sound - JMilSev 22

In her second act, Dua performed "These Walls," "Be The One," "Love Again" and "Pretty Please." 

Dua continued the party with "Hallucinate," "New Rules," "Electricity" and "Cold Heart."

"Thank you so much, thank you for your energy, thank you very much for being so loud. It's been so much fun. It's been so long since I've been here. Six years? Six years. And to be welcome so warmly means a lot," Dua said during her break.

The English-Albanian singer then sang an acoustic "Anything for Love" and "Happy For You."

For her encore performance, Dua finished the concert with "Physical," "Dance the Night," "Don't Start Now" and "Houdini."

RELATED: Dua Lipa visits Intramuros, Toyo Eatery ahead of Philippine Arena show

Olivia Rodrigo explains why Philippine concert tickets only P1,500

 Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

October 30, 2024 | 3:58pm

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-American pop star Olivia Rodrigo explained why she priced her Philippine concert tickets for only P1,500. 

In a report by Teen Vogue, Olivia said she wanted to make the tickets accessible. 

"So we did this thing called Silver Star tickets with the help of Amex, where we got to discount all of the tickets," she said.

"[They were] the equivalent of 25 American dollars for each ticket, because I really wanted to make sure that it was accessible and it was really exciting to me to think that maybe someone who usually couldn't afford to go to a concert could afford to go to this one," she added. 

Olivia said that she was excited to perform in the Philippines because it has so much significance to her and her family. 

"I was so excited to do the Philippines show. I have always wanted to go there. That's the one show I was looking forward to the most in all 95 dates that we put up, that was the one that I was looking forward to just because I've never been and it's a place that has so much significance to me and my family, and so I really wanted to make it special," she said. 

Olivia's paternal grandparents emigrated from the Philippines. Her mother is of German and Irish ancestry. 

Related: Olivia Rodrigo donates all Manila concert proceeds to Jhpiego Philippines

The pop star donated all the proceeds of her Philippine concert to Jhpiego. 

"Then we added the elements of donating all of my proceeds to this charity called Jhpiego that provides healthcare for women and girls in the Philippines and more rural areas where healthcare is hard to come by," she said.  

"It was just a really wonderful, special experience and I knew I wanted to give back to that community who has just given so much to me, and who has embraced me with open arms throughout my whole career," she added.

Mariah Carey greets Filipinos ahead of Christmas

 

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

September 9, 2024 | 1:07pm

MANILA, Philippines — International pop superstar Mariah Carey joined Filipinos in celebrating the Christmas season early, starting this September.

In her Facebook account, Mariah posted a link of her Christmas hit song "All I Want For Christmas Is You."

"Philippines, it's time (only for you!!)," Mariah wrote. 

"I hope you're all safe and well. Let’s celebrate together," she added. 

Last year, Mariah reposted a fan page tweet saying that her song "All I Want For Christmas Is You" was streamed 75% higher in the Philippines than in any other country. 

She said it was too early to say Christmas was coming, but she made an exception for Filipino fans. 

"Not yet!!!! I’ll allow it for my Filipino lambs though! (I don’t make the rules!)," Mariah wrote.

Mariah is a Christmas icon in the Philippines alongside another Christmas carol royalty, Jose Mari Chan.

Blackpink to stage world tour, comeback in 2025

Jan Milo Severo - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — YG Entertainment founder and producer Yang Hyun-suk announced that Korean girl group Blackpink will have its much-anticipated comeback next year.

Yang also announced that the girl group will have a world tour next in 2025. 

The producer, however, did not disclose more details on Blackpink's comeback. 

Composed of Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa and Rosé, Blackpink last performed in the country last March 2023 via their "Born Pink" world tour in Philippine Arena in Bulacan. 

Blackpink will have a fan event on August 8, which will be limited to 88 participants. The time and date will be announced at a later time. 

To join the fan event, fans need to share a post expressing their love and support for the group on Weverse using the hashtag #OUR_AREA_WITH_BLINK.