White Party Manila returns with renewed purpose in pride-powered comeback

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 28, 2026 01:47 pm

At A Glance

• White Party Manila makes a dazzling return for Pride Month 2026 with Vice Ganda, celebrity guests, performances, fashion, and a meaningful LGBTQIA+ community donation.     The return of White Party Manila became one of the biggest highlights of Pride Month 2026, as the iconic LGBTQIA+ celebration transformed the World Trade Center in Pasay City into a dazzling showcase of love, acceptance, creativity, and community.

After more than a decade away from the spotlight, the much-awaited comeback drew thousands of proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, celebrities, performers, and fashion personalities for a night filled with music, glamour, self-expression, and purpose.

The celebration lasted until the early hours of the morning, proving that White Party Manila remains more than just an event. It is a vibrant movement that honors identity, inclusivity, and the power of coming together.  

One of the biggest moments of the evening was the arrival of Vice Ganda, the Phenomenal Box-Office Star who once again proved why he remains one of the most influential figures in Philippine entertainment.

Known for his blockbuster films and long-running television presence, Vice Ganda stole the spotlight with a show-stopping all-white ensemble that became one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the night.

The award-winning comedian and host also took the stage to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and recognize the allies who continue to stand with the movement.

His presence carried special significance as he became the face of White Party Manila’s revival, representing visibility, pride, and the celebration of authentic selves.  

White Party Manila’s comeback attracted some of the country’s biggest entertainment names, turning the celebration into a gathering of cultural icons, performers, and proud supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Among the personalities seen at the event were Mayor Isko Moreno, who attended as an ally; OPM icon Ice Seguerra with wife Liza Diño; comedian and host John Lapus; television personality Joey Mead-King; actor Martin del Rosario; and veteran actress Yayo Aguila, among many others.

The stage also came alive with performances from OPM artists including Maki, Gloc-9, Marina Summers, Maxie Anderson, Ben&Ben, and the legendary SexBomb Girls led by Rochelle Pangilinan.

The SexBomb Girls were also honored as the “Gay Icon of the Year” during the historic return of White Party Manila.

Beyond music and performances, White Party Manila became a celebration of style as celebrities embraced the all-white theme with unforgettable looks.

The fashion showcase featured Janella Salvador, Mimiyuuuh, Chie Filomeno, Alex Diaz, Kirk Bondad, Ron Angeles, and Teejay Marquez.   

The runway moments captured the true essence of Pride, confidence, freedom, and the celebration of individuality.

The biggest highlight of the evening was the event’s commitment to making a difference.

Vice Ganda and Mentorque Productions officially turned over a ₱1 million donation to LoveYourself PH.

The contribution came from funds raised during the celebration, with Mentorque adding support to complete the one-million-peso donation.

Mentorque CEO Brian Dy shared:

“Having Vice as the face of this year’s comeback feels more meaningful, especially as we reignite the spirit of Pride through celebration, community, and purpose while delivering a Pride night to remember.”

With its unforgettable performances, dazzling fashion moments, celebrity presence, and meaningful advocacy, White Party Manila’s 2026 comeback became a defining Pride Month celebration, proving that love, unity, and self-expression will always have a place under the spotlight.

Celeste Cortesi, Jonathan Sterling answer breakup buzz with romantic posts

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 28, 2026 01:36 pm

At A Glance

• Celeste Cortesi and Jonathan Sterling dismiss breakup rumors through sweet Instagram posts after third-party allegations involving Bianca Manalo were denied.

Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi and her partner, British tech millionaire and philanthropist Jonathan Sterling, put an end to persistent breakup rumors by sharing affectionate posts that leave little doubt about the status of their relationship. 

Maps

After weeks of malicious speculation alleging that the couple had split because of a supposed third party, Celeste and Jonathan took to Instagram to remind followers that they remain happily together.

On Thursday, June 26, Celeste uploaded an Instagram Story featuring a collage of sweet moments with Jonathan. Although she did not include a caption, the cozy snapshots spoke volumes, showing the couple enjoying each other's company despite the controversy surrounding them.   

Jonathan later reposted Celeste's Story and accompanied it with a heartfelt declaration that immediately caught the attention of fans.

"The love of my life. Don't let her know, it'll go to her head."

The caption, as with the collage, quickly circulated online, with many netizens interpreting it as the couple's clearest response yet to rumors questioning the stability of their relationship.

The controversy began after an online report claimed that Celeste and Jonathan had allegedly gone their separate ways because of an unnamed third party.

Beauty queen-actress Bianca Manalo was later dragged into the issue after being identified in circulating reports as the supposed reason behind the alleged split. 

However, Bianca's management team at Sparkle immediately denied the allegations.

In an official statement released on June 12, Sparkle GMA Artist Center categorically rejected claims linking Bianca to the rumored breakup, stressing that the accusations had no factual basis.

This is not the first time Celeste has addressed the issue.

As early as June 13, the beauty queen assured the public that everything was fine between her and Jonathan. She also appealed for people to stop spreading baseless rumors, especially since she is currently pregnant with their first child.

She accompanied that statement with a photo of herself and Jonathan smiling and giving a thumbs-up to the camera.

GMA strengthens regional news coverage in Western Visayas with 'Ratsada Balita'

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 27, 2026 02:12 pm

GMA Regional TV is strengthening its regional news coverage with the launch of "Ratsada Balita," a revamped version of its flagship Hiligaynon newscast "One Western Visayas," beginning June 29.

The rebranding marks a new chapter for the regional news program, introducing a refreshed identity and expanded lineup of news and public service segments aimed at delivering faster, more in-depth, and community-centered reporting across Western Visayas and Negros Occidental.

Leading the newscast is anchor Gerthrode Charlotte Tan, joined by reporters Adrian Prietos, Kim Salinas, Zen Quilantang-Sasa, John Sala, and Aileen Pedreso, who will deliver reports from key areas across the region.  

Beyond its new name, "Ratsada Balita" is introducing several original segments designed to deepen its coverage of local issues.

Among the highlights is "Tatak Ratsada," a mini-documentary segment featuring in-depth reports on pressing community concerns, human interest stories, and emerging regional issues.

Meanwhile, "Ratsada Exclusive" will showcase exclusive reports and special investigations, while "Ipa-Ratsada Mo!" strengthens the program's public service mandate by giving residents a platform to raise complaints and concerns affecting their communities.

The newscast will also feature "Ratsada Express" for breaking news and police reports, "Money-Obra (May Trabaho Ka)" for local and overseas job opportunities and foreign exchange updates, and "Isports Lang," a dedicated segment focused on local and regional sports.

Adding variety to the lineup is "Mga Istorya ni Alyas Kanor," which offers lighthearted and relatable stories drawn from everyday life.

Ashtine Olviga takes charge of first solo concert

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 26, 2026 12:06 pm

Actress-singer Ashtine Olviga is returning to her musical roots, and this time, she's making sure her voice is heard both on and off the stage.

Ahead of her first solo concert, "Love Like Ashtine," the rising star revealed that she has been deeply involved in every aspect of the production, from the show's concept and setlist to the costumes and stage design.

"Siyempre may mga taong assigned to do all that, pero thankful ako na pinapakinggan nila ang mga suggestions ko, yung mga sinasabi ko," Ashtine told us.   

The hands-on approach marks a significant change for the actress, who admitted she used to keep her opinions to herself out of fear of offending others.

"Kasi po, before, nakakatakot magsalita. Baka kasi may ma-offend. So parang, 'Sige po, okay na po 'yun.' Ganoon po ako dati," she shared.

"Ngayon, I am very much involved. Super thankful ako kasi hinahayaan nila akong ma-involve. Sobrang welcoming ng production team. Ipinaramdam nila sa akin na kung may ideas ako, puwede kong sabihin."

Beyond shaping the show's creative direction, Ashtine also had a hand in selecting many of the concert's special guests.  

"Karamihan sa mga kinuha ko, kakilala ko na rin. Para masaya," she said with a laugh.

Asked if her guests were willing to take direction from her, she smiled and replied, "Opo! Yung mga guest din po, sila pa yung parang nagsabi na, 'O sige, okay lang kung sino ang mga gusto mo.'"

Set for Aug. 23 at the New Frontier Theater, "Love Like Ashtine" will feature an eclectic lineup of artists from music, P-pop, and acting.

Among the confirmed guests are singer-songwriter Rob Deniel, who starred alongside Ashtine in "My Melody," an episode of the anthology series "Viva One Originals: Ashtine," as well as hitmaker Amiel Sol, whose viral song "Sa Bawat Sandali" was memorably covered by the actress.

P-pop groups GAT and RAYA will also perform, alongside Ashtine's former Litz groupmates Yumi Garcia, Fatima Anonuevo, and Bianca Santos.

Joining the celebration are her "Ang Mutya ng Section E" co-stars Sara Joe and Jastine Lim, together with fellow Vivarkada artists Nicole Omillo, Krissha Viaje, and Aubrey Caraan.

The impressive lineup has turned rehearsals into what feels like a reunion.

"Yeah, kaya po sa rehearsals ang saya lang namin. Kahit napapagod na kami, madalas tawa lang kami nang tawa," she said.

Fans can also expect brand-new music during the concert.

Ashtine revealed she will premiere five new songs, including "Nasaan Ka Na?," a track she personally wrote.

"So, bale sa concert ko po, maglalabas po kami ng additional five songs. Isa na rito yung 'Nasaan Ka Na?' which ako po ang sumulat."

She said the song came from exploring a more vulnerable side of herself.

"Yung inspiration? In-explore ko lang yung vulnerable side ko. Yung mga nakikita kong stories na malulungkot."

The concert comes as Ashtine continues to expand her music career following the release of her debut single, "Love Like U," which has already surpassed 840,000 streams.

Produced in collaboration with acclaimed songwriter Thyro Alfaro, the track introduced fans to another side of the actress, blending modern pop with soulful melodies while highlighting her sweet yet confident vocals.

With new music, surprise collaborations, and a more personal creative vision, "Love Like Ashtine" promises to showcase not just Ashtine the actress, but Ashtine the performer and emerging pop artist.

Tickets are now available via TicketNet.

PH animation enters golden era with 'Sun Chaser,' 'Zsazsa Zaturnnah,' and 'Forgotten Island' gaining global momentum

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 25, 2026 06:11 pm

With Filipino creators, global voice casts, and festival acclaim, Pinoy animation is stepping into a powerful new era of worldwide recognition as led by "Sun Chaser," the internationally praised "Zsazsa Zaturnnah," and DreamWorks' "Forgotten Island."

Philippine animation is riding one of its most exciting creative waves in recent memory. What was once a niche corner of the entertainment industry is now steadily emerging into global view, powered by original Filipino stories, international collaborations, and festival recognition that is hard to ignore.

At the center of this surge is the newly released animated series “Sun Chaser,” which premiered June 22 on YouTube, free for global audiences.

The fantasy adventure has quickly become one of the most talked-about Filipino animated projects online, not just for its story, but for the scale of its ambition and the star power behind it.

The premise is simple, straightforward. “Sun Chaser” follows teenager Jordan Santos, whose supposed chill summer in the Philippines turns into a supernatural awakening. As he discovers his role in protecting the fragile balance between the human world and the spirit realm, the series unfolds as both a fantasy epic and a coming-of-age story rooted in identity and heritage.  

It should be said though that the voice cast reflects the project’s global reach.

Featuring Liza Soberano, Manny Jacinto, Charo Santos-Concio, Dingdong Dantes, Zia Dantes, AC Bonifacio, KD Estrada, Eugene Cordero and JR De Guzman, it blends a healthy mix of Filipino and Filipino-American talents in a grand collaboration that is fast shaping modern Pinoy storytelling.  

Behind the series are veteran Filipino animators Bobby Pontillas and Bernard Badion, with production handled by Toon City Animation and Playlab Manila.

The creators have positioned the project as something unprecedented: a fully creator-owned Filipino animated series grounded in local mythology and built with the production ambition of a major international studio.

While the series has already premiered, its journey is far from over. A Kickstarter campaign is currently underway to fund additional episodes, underscoring both the passion behind the project and the evolving landscape of independent animation production in the Philippines.

While “Sun Chaser” captures attention online, another Filipino-linked project has been making waves abroad.

Liza Soberano gets real about money, rejection, and her new life in Hollywood

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 16, 2026 11:20 am | Updated Jun 16, 2026 04:48 pm

At A Glance

• Liza Soberano opens up about the financial realities, constant auditions, and challenges of rebuilding her career in Hollywood after leaving behind success in the Philippines.

Liza Soberano is opening up about the challenges that came with leaving behind an established career in the Philippines to pursue opportunities in Hollywood.

Speaking on the "Painfully Human Podcast," the actress reflected on her decision to relocate to Los Angeles and the realities of starting over in a highly competitive industry.

The actress acknowledged that the move has significantly changed her financial situation.  

She also addressed criticism from those who questioned why she occasionally takes on influencer work and smaller brand partnerships.

For Soberano, the answer is straightforward.

"When I first moved to LA, it really hurt me when people would say, 'Oh, laos na siya. We don't see her anywhere. Oh, laos na siya. She's only doing these small little influencer gigs.'"

"Guys, that's how I stay alive," she said.

The actress explained that while much of her income still comes from Asia, she now has to cover expenses in the United States, where the cost of living is considerably higher.

"I'm not making as much money as I did before and on top of that, majority of my money still comes from Asia, but I'm living in the US, so the conversion is crazy."

As a result, she takes on projects that help support her financially while she continues working toward bigger opportunities.

"I have to do all these little gigs every now and then because that's how I pay my bills."

Beyond the financial adjustments, Soberano said she has had to adapt to a different pace and process in Hollywood.

Much of her time is spent attending auditions, taking classes, and investing in training. She also pays for coaching sessions to prepare for self-tape auditions despite having no certainty that a role will follow.  

Rejection, she said, has become a normal part of her routine.

"In America, I do three to four auditions a week and I get rejected constantly."

Despite that, the actress said the experience has been rewarding because it continues to push her outside her comfort zone.

"But I'm loving it now because I'm learning and growing so much."

Since relocating to Los Angeles, Soberano has already landed notable international projects. She made her Hollywood debut in the 2024 film "Lisa Frankenstein" and was recently announced as part of the voice cast of "Forgotten Island," an upcoming animated feature from DreamWorks Animation.

Making movie magic: How 3D technology is reshaping entertainment

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 15 2026 01:13 pm

At A Glance

• There is a growing shift in cosplay and performance culture, where digital design tools are increasingly replacing weeks of manual fabrication.   Hollywood has long been known for its ability to turn imagination into spectacle, but behind many of its most iconic visuals is a quiet technological revolution: 3D printing.

Once confined to industrial prototyping, the technology has become a creative backbone in film and television production, changing how props, costumes, and even entire characters are brought to life on screen quickly and cost-effectively. 

More, it shifts productions from lengthy manual sculpting to rapid computer-aided prototyping, ensuring seamless consistency across multiple takes.

In the “Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU),” property master Russell Bobbitt estimates that over 100 props per Marvel film involve 3D printing. One standout example is Thor’s hammer Stormbreaker, which, he said, was printed in 34 separate pieces and assembled into a weapon worthy of a god. The technology also contributed to the creation of Iron Man suits, helping refine body forms and production fittings for actor Robert Downey Jr., ensuring the armor looked seamless both in motion and close-up shots.

Now, this same wave of innovation is beginning to take center stage in Philippine entertainment.

From film and television productions to digital content creation and major industry events, 3D printing is fast becoming a valuable creative tool in Philippine entertainment.

Attesting to this is actress-cosplayer Myrtle Sarrosa.

She told us, “This is so exciting for me personally because I have experienced the ease and accessibility that 3D printing allows relating to the costumes I use for cosplay. It makes everything so easy unlike in the past where it’s quite time-consuming talaga.”

Asked to cite an example, she shared how she used 3D technology to recreate Okarun’s mask.

“It was for a show and time was of essence so, using the Creality K2 Plus and running it through a specific software, I was able to complete the project in just a few hours.”

She adds, “With 3D printing, I see tons of possibilities talaga for its use in the entertainment industry. It could help bring stories to life through realistic props, costumes, set pieces, and event materials for film, television, online content, and live productions.”

Her perspective reflects a growing shift in cosplay and performance culture, where digital design tools are increasingly replacing weeks of manual fabrication.

And it is now more accessible for every Juan and Maria through Makerlab’s 3D Printing Experience Hub at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, which allows people to simply walk in and exercise their own creativity using the magic of 3D printing.

Note that beyond individual creators, institutions are also embracing the technology.

Eve Ridley brings Filipino pride to DC Universe with 'Supergirl' breakthrough

By Neil Ramos

Published Jun 14, 2026 05:00 pm

At A Glance

• Filipina-British actress Eve Ridley makes her DC Universe debut in "Supergirl" as Ruthye Marye Knoll, marking a notable moment for Filipino representation in Hollywood.

Filipina-British actress Eve Ridley is set to make her mark in the DC Universe as part of the cast of “Supergirl,” one of the most anticipated films in DC Studios' new era.

The 14-year-old actress will portray Ruthye Marye Knoll, a young alien farmhand seeking justice after her father's murder at the hands of Krem of the Yellow Hills, played by Matthias Schoenaerts. The film stars Milly Alcock as Supergirl and Jason Momoa as the intergalactic bounty hunter Lobo.

While Ridley may not be the first person of Filipino descent to be associated with DC, her casting represents a milestone for Filipino representation on the big screen as one of the few actresses with Filipino heritage to land a major role in a live-action DC feature film.   

Born in Tyneside, England, to British father Matthew Ridley and Filipino mother Monalisa Ridley, the young actress has openly embraced her Filipino roots and expressed a desire to visit the Philippines and learn the Filipino language.

“I really want to go to the Philippines someday,” Ridley said. “It looks like such a beautiful island country. I really want to go to one of the beaches there. They look so tropical and gorgeous. I really want to learn Tagalog as well because, you know, I get to communicate with family over there.”

Ridley's breakthrough adds another chapter to the long-standing connection between Filipinos and the DC Universe.

Filipino representation in DC extends beyond its films and television projects. In the comics, characters with Filipino heritage have appeared over the years, including Manuel Lago, one of the earliest recurring Filipino characters in DC Comics and a friend of Barry Allen, also known as The Flash. Another notable example is Captain Steel, whose Earth 2 incarnation was revealed to have Filipino roots.

The Philippines has also played a significant role behind the scenes in shaping DC Comics through generations of artists and writers.

Among the pioneers was Tony DeZuniga, the Filipino comic book artist who became one of DC's most influential contributors in the 1970s. He co-created the popular antihero Jonah Hex and the character Black Orchid, helping open doors for Filipino talent in the American comic book industry.

Following DeZuniga's success, acclaimed Filipino artists such as Alfredo Alcala, Nestor Redondo and Alex Niño became prominent contributors to DC Comics, bringing their distinctive artistic styles to titles that helped define the publisher's visual identity.

In more recent years, Filipino artists have continued to leave their mark on DC.

Carlo Pagulayan worked on major titles featuring characters such as Wonder Woman and Deathstroke, while the late Gerry Alanguilan contributed his celebrated inking work to projects including “Superman: Birthright.”

Against that backdrop, Ridley's arrival in the DC Universe reflects the continuing presence of Filipino talent within one of the world's biggest superhero franchises.

For “Supergirl,” the young actress underwent two months of intensive stunt training that included martial arts, boxing, sword fighting and wire work.

“It was the most fun,” she said.

Ridley also developed a close friendship with Alcock during filming.

“She is the best. She’s like a big sister to me,” she said.