BINI looks forward to 2025 world tour, eyes more international collabs

 

BINI looks forward to 2025 world tour, eyes more international collabs

BINI collaborates with Indonesian pop star Agnez Mo (center) for the 'BINIMo remix' of Cherry On Top.

Photo from BINI's Instagram

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

December 21, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — What a year 2024 has been for BINI. But it looks like 2025 is shaping up to be an even bigger year for the “Nation's Girl Group” with their first-ever world tour.

In an exclusive interview with The STAR on Thursday, BINI members Jhoanna, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Gwen, Sheena, Aiah and Colet shared what they were most grateful for this year.

Besides hit songs, they mounted major solo concerts — first with “BINIverse” in July at the New Frontier Theater, with several stops in cities outside Metro Manila, and then the “Grand BINIverse” three-day concert series at the Big Dome in November.

The girls also had their first international collaboration with Indonesian pop superstar Agnez Mo for a remix version of Cherry on Top. The group reportedly met her at the Enterprise Studios in L.A. and later at the Billboard Korea's K Power 100 launch in Seoul earlier this year.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to showcase our song to everyone, especially (to people) in Indonesia. We’re grateful for Agnez Mo’s beautiful voice and for accepting this project,” began Stacey.

“Thank you also to the brands we’ve worked with,” Jhoanna added.

“For this year, there have been so many blessings and achievements that we've gotten. We are grateful because it shows that our efforts have been seen and acknowledged,” Aiah further said.

“And not just the (individual) efforts but also the teamwork. Everyone has put in a lot of work, especially when we did the concerts. Having done two concerts in a year, that was hard to pull through, but we managed. Thank you to everyone who has shown us so much love. Thank you, Lord!”

They also recognized their fans, also known as Blooms, as part of the driving force behind whatever they accomplished this year.

In an exclusive interview with The STAR, BINI members Jhoanna, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Gwen, Sheena, Aiah and Colet look back on 2024 and share what they are most grateful for this year.

“Thank you to our Blooms, who are always there for us, voting endlessly for us. They always have our backs,” said Maloi. “This is the time that we give back through our music.”

On what fans can expect from BINI in 2025, Gwen revealed, “More shows and song releases! We’re preparing to release our new song, Blink Twice. Of course, we will also have our grand BINIverse repeat concert at the Philippine Arena in February and a world tour, yes!”

As mentioned, one of the highlights of this year was their first international collaboration. The girls recalled their first impressions of Agnez Mo. “The word is ‘intimidated,’” said Aiah. “If you just look at her before she speaks, you’ll feel intimidated. But when she starts sharing her experiences and everything she knows about the world of music, we feel warm and comfortable just being with her.

“It feels like we have a big sister. That’s very nice because, especially in this industry, it's hard to find someone you can be comfortable talking to and expressing yourself with. This collaboration is a great step, and hopefully, it doesn’t end there. We hope to have more collaborations in the future. If we get to travel, hopefully, we visit Indonesia for work or leisure.”

For Mikha, recording with Agnez “taught us how to mesh three languages — Bahasa, Tagalog and English — altogether. I think it really worked well. Agnez Mo’s verse really amazed us; it brought a different flavor to the song.”

“We hope this collaboration opens more opportunities for BINI, Agnez Mo, other Filipino and Indonesian artists. Imagine the exchange of artistry among Asian (talents),” Jhoanna added.

As for Agnez, she found it easy to build a rapport with the girls due to quite similar backgrounds.

“When I first heard the record — even before Cherry on Top was out — we kind of dabbled into the possibility of us working together. I also did my research on BINI. I love what they stand for — girl power. It’s very aligned with my career and has always been my message throughout my life.

“Honestly, they reminded me of who I was when I was 17, 18, 19 years old. It brought back so many memories, and I definitely wanted to show up for the girls.

“I think the message of doing this is about crossing boundaries and countries, embracing multiculturalism, and celebrating unity in diversity. That has always been a huge part of my campaign as an artist. This collaboration solidifies that. Representing Asia and music on the global stage is something that should be celebrated.”

When asked about the possible impact of this project on the music scene in the region, Agnez shared that the beauty of the collaboration was that she came into it with zero expectations. She said it wasn’t about trying a strategy to break into another music market or vice versa.

“It’s really a genuine connection between strong girls and women, and also about representing Asia on the global stage,” she reiterated.

Given her success and staying power in the industry, Agnez sees qualities in BINI that she believes will help them last long in the entertainment business.

“It’s their curiosity. Every time we met, they would ask questions, they were willing to listen, and they were eager to learn. We connected not just as artists but also on a human level — like a big sister to younger sisters,” she said.

“The reason I’ve stayed at the top of my career for literally 30 years is because I’ve always been curious about what else I could learn — from experiences, life, other artists and established creators.

“On top of that, BINI is surrounded by a strong team that really cares about them. I think that’s also very important in this industry.”

Arch. Royal Pineda on redefining Filipino identity and inspiring the next generation

BY REY ILAGAN

Dec 21, 2024 04:27 PM 

Arch. Royal Pineda (Photo courtesy of Royal Pineda/Facebook)

During the launch of “Ugnayan,” Genteel Home’s latest collaboration with Arch. Royal Pineda at Manila FAME 2024, the spotlight wasn’t just on the stunning furniture collection—it was on the dialogue surrounding Filipino creativity. Renowned for his forward-thinking approach to design and architecture, Arch. Pineda shared insights on his partnership with designer Katrina Blanca de Leon, the local creative industry, and his vision for modern Filipino design.

One theme consistently emerged: Arch. Pineda’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of Filipino identity in design, always aiming for global recognition without losing authenticity.

Katrina de Leon and Arch. Royal Pineda (Photo courtesy of Genteel Home)

Culture of betterment

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For Arch. Pineda, every collaboration is an opportunity to inspire creatives to embrace and refine their unique Filipino identity. Reflecting on his work with de Leon and Genteel Home, he emphasized the importance of authenticity in creativity. “As I collaborate and work with any creatives as a naturalist, I always say, just be yourself. I am not here to tell you to follow my ways or my approach, but to understand the principle of how to become you and a better Filipino,” he explained.

This philosophy translates into a mindset of continual improvement—a rejection of mediocrity. “When I see a creative digging for that identity, I help them. Because I always tell them, you will not just be Filipino—you will be a better Filipino, a modern Filipino,” he said.

He further highlighted the importance of creating designs that contribute to a broader narrative. “The culture of betterment—where we keep saying better, better, better—is actually created to cancel out ‘pwede na.’ You see a version, so there’s a contribution, because it cannot be the same. Otherwise, there’s no point; there’s no creativity.”

(Photo courtesy of Royal Pineda)

Local design, global market 

Pineda believes that Filipino design has the potential to thrive in a global market, not by competing with mass-produced pieces but by embracing its exclusivity. “Philippine furniture stands out because we are not about mass production. That’s why I also challenge [designers]. Your exclusivity is not just about limiting it to a few people. Your exclusivity is in being able to create a design exclusively for a person,” he said.

This approach requires a clear understanding of what makes Filipino design unique. “The Philippines will have its authentic market because it will always prepare and present a very specific identity and quality of the Philippines. We’re not here to compete… But again, my question is: What makes ours Filipino? That’s the challenge—to always know,” Arch. Pineda explained.

He added that authenticity in Filipino design can command its value. “Why would I buy a table from the Philippines that’s exactly like a table from Vietnam, but Vietnam’s is cheaper? But if you, as a Filipino table, bring something to the world that makes it better Filipino, then you cannot compare the price.”

Modern Filipino identity

For Arch. Pineda, modern Filipino design is an evolving identity. “For the longest time, there was a colonial mindset that left us confused as architects. Some colleagues of mine, 20 years ago, when I asked them, ‘Can you define Philippine architecture?’ they said it was a long discussion because we were colonized,” he recalled.

But Arch. Pineda has moved beyond that mindset. “I believe I’m doing Philippine architecture of our time. The bahay kubo was Philippine architecture of its time, as was the bahay na bato. We are in a constant evolution, but my challenge to every creative—not just architects—is this: Are you contributing to the chain of history?” 

His design philosophy is deeply rooted in identity and purpose. “Why should a Filipino be forced to live in a Mediterranean house? Why do the French live in a French house? And yet, suddenly, when you come to the Philippines, you’re telling me I’m Filipino and I cannot live in a Filipino house?”

For Arch. Pineda, the challenge is clear: “If you don’t dare to find your own identity, if you don’t have that itch, you will always be a follower. You’ll remain in the status quo. But I challenge the status quo all the time.”

Next generation

Pineda is optimistic about the younger generation of Filipino creatives. “I’m happy to see the younger generation becoming more confident about who they are. They look for what’s Filipino,” he said.

While some criticize younger designers for being overly confident or entitled, Pineda sees this as an asset. “That’s not necessarily bad. Use that confidence to say, ‘We are Filipino.’ Graduate from the inferiority. That’s what makes the Philippines really exciting now, especially in creative fields.”

Hilda Koronel returns to acting via 'Sisa,' reveals favorite Filipino stars

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Dec 22, 2024 00:30 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Although Hilda lives abroad for almost 20 years, she expressed that she never misses acting. Her last film was The Mistress in 2012. 

Hilda Koronel (Screengrab from YouTube)

After12 years, award-winning actress Hilda Koronel returns to the Philippines to shoot a historical film entitled "Sisa."

During a guest appearance on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, Hilda said she was excited to do the movie.

"I'm going to do a historical thriller. It's called Sisa. They believe it's all about Jose Rizal's 'Sisa,' but it's not. It's an original story. Interesting," said Hilda. 

Asked how she would attack the role of Sisa, the award-winning actress said: "They see her as a mad woman from the beginning. She was damaged. Parang loka-loka siya. So dahil loka-loka, pinangalan siyang Sisa. That's it. But truly, she was not a crazy woman. She was a spy for the revolutionaries."

"I did Lupang Hinirang, a period piece from the old days, but this one is different. I loved the story, and the presentation during the Zoom meeting was so interesting. It was so professionally done, and I thoroughly loved the synopsis first. Then I said give me a great script. And they did.

"Maraming ita-tackle rito na stories, and it's a very interesting story. Relevant pa rin and you have a bit of history. Mga twist and turn namin very interesting," Hilda said. 

Boy said Eugene Domingo and Jenics Garcia will be part of the cast. Hilda also explained how she prepares for a role.

"In a way, when I read the script, napapanaginipan ko na yung mga eksena. It's like a movie in my brain. And I see how I will attack and discuss that scene with them.

"They listen naman, and we collaborate. So I internalize, and I get into my role as anybody. Pagpapasok na ako ng kotse, 'Sisa' na ako.

"Tahimik na ako ng konti. Of course I greet everybody. Baka sabihin nila mataray ako. But I have to concentrate in one corner: I have to do my lines and I want to make sure na kung ano ang gusto ng direktor and gusto ko pareho. 

"Magsi-sink kaming dalawa. May sarili siyang interpretation I respect that. May sarili rin ako so pinag-uusapan namin dalawa," Hilda added.

Although Hilda lives abroad for almost 20 years, she expressed that she never misses acting. Her last film was The Mistress in 2012.

"I guess I've been at it for so long since I was 12 years old. My husband said it was time for me to stop already.

"Ang na-miss ko yung country, the people. I missed my children and my grandchildren. I missed my maids. They are family to us," Hilda said.

Hilda was asked to send a message to her younger self.

"I think I was very afraid at that time. I would say, 'Lakasan mo ang loob mo.' Kinalakadkan na ako ng nanay ko since I was young. But I was too shy. I didn't even know what that meant yung maging artista ka." 

Hilda acknowledges that she still feels nervous when filming a movie on set.

"May kaba pa rin sa paggawa ng pelikula in the beginning. Pero nawawala yan as you go along. Sa umpisa lang yan eh."

Advice for the young stars

Hilda shared some advice with the current actors.

"Just work hard and love your craft. I always say it takes a village to finish a movie. So treat everybody with respect and be on time. 

"Lahat yan. I respect them from top to bottom. Importante sa akin yun, she said.

Hilda also recalled moments when she scolded fellow actors. "Marami."

She revealed she never had a showbiz crush. However, she almost got into serious relationships with her leading men. "I won't tell."

Hilda expressed that she feels flattered whenever critics refer to her as the gold standard in acting.

"I hope I can live up to that hype. I don't want to offend other actors who work with me. But that's how they see it. So what can I do? It's flattering, but I don't see myself like that."

Hilda, 67, also named some of the Filipino stars she admires. "Marami. Nora (Aunor) is good. Vilma (Santos) is good. I've worked with them. Ate Guy a lot with Viva Films. I love Dindo Fernando. I love Eddie Garcia. I love Christopher de Leon. I love Bembol Rocco. Marami."

On current stars, Hilda said: "Wala ako masyadong alam because I was out of the country. I took out my TFC because I used to cry a lot kapag nanonood kami ng mga Christmas. Naiiyak kaming mag-asawa. Nalulungkot ako."

Hilda said she will celebrate the holidays with her children and grandchildren in Manila.

It's Showtime' to continue airing on GMA Network in 2025

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Dec 21, 2024 00:16 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• "Its Showtime" premiered on GMA on April 6, 2024. 

The cast of 'It's Showtime' (Facebook)

The popular noontime program "It's Showtime" will continue to air on the noontime slot of GMA from Monday to Saturday.

In an official statement on Dec. 20, ABS-CBN and the "It's Showtime" family expressed gratitude to GMA for their continued trust and support.

It added: "We will continue to inspire and bring happiness to our audiences. 

"Thank you Kapuso, Kapamilya, and Madlang People."

Before this, rumors were that the Kapuso noontime variety program, "TicToClock," would replace "It's Showtime" and begin in January 2025.

"Ang alam ko ay may nangyayaring negotiation ngayon ang It's Showtime and GMA. Yun lang ang alam ko sa ngayon," said Kuya Kim, one of the hosts of "TicToClock," during an ambush interview recently.

This was the same statement made by GMA Network Senior Vice President Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, when she officially addressed the rumors that "It's Showtime" will be replaced by GMA variety show “TiktoClock” once the former’s contract expires this month. 

“We are in negotiations now for the renewal of ‘Showtime,’” said Annette in November.

"Its Showtime" premiered on GMA on April 6, 2024.

Winter solstice 2024: Philippines to have longest night on Dec. 21

BY ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Dec 20, 2024 01:13 PM

  

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Photo from Pixabay

As the world turns and the year draws closer to its end, the Philippines will soon experience its longest night of 2024. 

This year’s December or winter solstice, which falls on Dec. 21, marks a moment when the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, signaling the start of winter in the northern hemisphere and summer in the southern hemisphere.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the northern hemisphere experiences the shortest day and the longest night of the year during the December solstice. 

While the difference in day length is less noticeable in tropical countries like the Philippines, the solstice still offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the Earth’s journey around the Sun.

In Metro Manila, on Dec. 21, the sun will rise at 6:16 a.m. and set at 5:32 p.m., giving the region 11 hours and 15 minutes of daylight.

After the December solstice, the nights will slowly get longer, and the days will start to get shorter, bringing more darkness as we move toward the new year.

PHILIPPINE PROVINCES AND IT IS BEST KNOWN FOR!🇵🇭

PHILIPPINE PROVINCES AND IT IS BEST KNOWN FOR!

Cebu City– Oldest City in the Philippines; Gateway to a Thousand Journeys

Davao City – Largest City in the Philippines; Fruit Basket and King City of the South

Aklan – Oldest province in the Philippines

Iloilo – Province with most number of barangays

Negros Occidental – Province with most number of cities

Palawan – Largest Province in the Philippines

Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro – Largest Municipality in the Philippines

Miagao, Iloilo – Municipality with most number of barangays, Onion Capital of Visayas

Nueva Ecija – Rice Granary of the Philippines

Pampanga – Culinary Capital of the Philippines

Marinduque – Heart of the Philippines

Iloilo City – The First queen City of the South, City where the Past is always present

Dumaguete – City of Gentle People

Cagayan de Oro – City of Golden Friendship

Quezon City – City of Stars and New Horizons

Manila – Ever Distinguished Loyal City

Roxas City – Seafood Capital of the Philippines

Antique – Province where the mountain meets the sea

Negros Occidental – Sugar Bowl

Romblon – Marble Capital

Rizal – Cradle of Philippine Arts

Cavite – Cradle of Phil. Revolution

La Union – Surfing Capital of the North

Biliran – Shipyard of Antiquity

Camiguin – Island Born of Fire

Bacoor – Band Capital of the Philippines

Gen. San City – Tuna Capital

Isulan – Oil Palm Capital of the Philippines

Pangasinan – Saltmaking Capital

Negros Occidental – Sugar Bowl

Romblon – Marble Capital

Rizal – Cradle of Philippine Arts

Cavite – Cradle of Phil. Revolution

La Union – Surfing Capital of the North

Biliran – Shipyard of Antiquity

Camiguin – Island Born of Fire

Siquijor – Island of Fire

Makati – Manhattan of the Philippines

Marikina – Shoe Capital of the Philippines

Masbate – Great Wild West of Phil.

Tarlac – Melting Pot of Central Luzon

Bataan – History Hub of Central Luzon

Bulacan – Manila’s Gateway to the North

Palawan – Philippines’ Last Frontier

Guimaras – Mango County of Visayas

Manduluyong – Shopping Capital

Muntinlupa – The Emerald City

Valenzuela – The Only Divided City

Lanao del Sur – Cradle of Muslim Art

South Cotabato – Conference Capital of Mindanao

Dinagat Island – Mystical Province of Love

Surigao del Norte – Surfing Capital

Batangas – Diving and Shipping Capital

Batanes – Land of True Insulars

Quirino – Forest Heartland of Cagayan Valley

Zambales – Chromite Capital

Aurora – Land of Golden Sunrise

Zamboanga del Norte – Province of South’s Twin City

Bukidnon – Pineapple Capital

Eastern Samar – Gateway to Phil. Discovery

Cam Sur – Wakeboarding Capital

Lanao del Norte – Land of Beauty and Bounty

Pateros – Balut Capital

San Juan – Tiangge Capital

Navotas – Fishing Capital of Greater Manila

Laguna – The Silicon Valley

Catanduanes – Land of the Howling Wind

Maguindanao – Seat of Muslim Mindanao

Sitangkai, Tawi Tawi – Venice of the South

Cotabato – Land of Mightiest Mountain

Neg. Oriental – Whale and Dolphin Haven

Paranaque – Fashion Capital

Pasay – Travel Capital

Lucena, Quezon – Biofuel & Biopalm City

Samar – Spelunking Capital

Davao del Norte – Durian and Banana Capital

Baguio City – Summer Capital/ City of Pines

San Fernando, Pampanga – Lantern Capital

Misamis Occidental – Christmas Capital of Mindanao

Benguet – Salad Bowl of the Philippines

Kalinga – White Rafting Capital of the North

Isabela – Rice Granary of the North

Nueva Vizcaya – Watershed Haven of Cagayan Valley

Ilocos Sur – Heritage Haven of the Far North

Oriental Mindoro – Harbor Gateway to the South

Agusan del Norte – Land of Antiquated Finds

Tacloban City – City of Hope

Tagbilaran – City of Peace and Friendship

Tuguegarao – Premier Ybanag City

Butuan – Timber City of the South

Gingoog – City of Good Luck

Dapitan – Shrine and Historic City of the South

Pagadian – Little Hong Kong of the South

Zamboanga City – Asias Latin City, Sardines Capital, City of Flowers

Mati – Coconut City of the South

Catbalogan – City of Captivating Contrast

Tagum – Music Capital of the South

Sulu – Land of Exotic Fruits

Bacolod – City of Smiles

Passi – Sweet City at the Heart of Panay

Antipolo – City in the Sky

Calbayog – City of Waterfalls

Las Pinas – Salt Center of Metro Manila

Taguig – The ProvinSyudad

Valenzuela – Vibrant City of Discipline

Maasin City, Southern Leyte – The Religious City

Lingayen – The Most Romantic Place

Alimodian, Iloilo – Banana Capital of Panay

Dagupan – Bangus Capital

La Trinidad, Benguet – Strawberry Capital

Cauayan, Isabela – Mushroom City of the North

Donsol, Sorsogon – World’s Whale Shark Capital

Legazpi – City of Fun and Adventure; ATV capital

Naga – Bicols Queen City

Mandaue, Cebu – Furniture Capital

Borongan – King City of the East

Dipolog – The Phil. Orchid City

Gutalac, Zamboanga Norte – Pebble Capital

El Salvador, Misamis Oriental – City of Divine Mercy

Iligan – industrial City of the South

Pototan, Iloilo – Christmas Capital of Visayas

Lantapan, Bukidnon – Vegetable Basket of Mindanao

Malaybalay, Bukidnon – Summer Capital of the South

Oroquieta – City of Good Life

Digos – Clay Capital of Mindanao

Malita – Banana Capital of Davao

Samal – Phil. Island Garden City

Kidapawan – City at the foot of Mt Apo

Koronadal – Ilonggo City of the South

El Nido – Heaven on Earth

Puerto Galera – Poors man Boracay

Puerto Princesa – EcoTourism Capital

Cainta, Rizal – Bibingka Capital

Calamba – Hot Spring Capital

Imus – The Philippine Flag Capital

Lipa, Batangas – City of Pride

Molo, Iloilo – Athens of the Philippines

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