Sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" shines a light on inclusion

"Lights Up, Sounds Down" offers inclusive movie experience for autism community

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Jan 22, 2025 10:43 AM 

In celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures partnered to host a successful sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on January 17, 2025. Over 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, including children on the autism spectrum and their families, enjoyed a heartwarming and inclusive movie experience.

"Tuwingpumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-damanamin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang UyKoe.  

A child on the autism spectrum shares a smile with their loved one during the sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" at SM Southmall

 

SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines, and GMA Pictures join forces to bring a sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" to children on the autism spectrum and their families at SM North EDSA Cinema

 

“Firefly” stars Alessandra De Rossi (right) and EuwennMikaell (left) grace the sensory-friendly screening at SM North EDSA Cinema

 

Creating a welcoming space

The "Lights Up, Sounds Down" event went beyond entertainment. By adjusting lights and volume, creating a relaxed atmosphere, and allowing for movement and vocalizations, the screening catered to the specific needs of attendees on the autism spectrum. This empowered them to enjoy the movie at their own pace and comfort level.

 

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz shares a message in a video celebrating National Autism Consciousness Week

 

A heartwarming moment captured at the sensory-friendly screening of 'Firefly' at SM City Olongapo Central, where families enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive movie experience

 

"At SM Supermalls, we firmly believe that creating spaces where every individual feels valued, respected, and included is a responsibility we hold dearly.  This is a way of life here," said SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo. 

 

The guests experience the magic of "Firefly" at the sensory-friendly screening in SM City Telabastagan, Pampanga

 

An invited guest is captivated by the sensory-friendly screening at SM City Marikina

 

A boy enjoys the special screening and shows respect and gratitude with a traditional 'mano po' at SM City Cebu

 

Ongoing commitment

Positive feedback from families echoed the event's success. Many expressed appreciation for the inclusive environment, highlighting the joy and comfort it provided. This powerful experience underscores the importance of catering to the autism community's needs.

SM Cares: Championing inclusion

A commitment to inclusivity requires ongoing effort. SM demonstrates this by investing in employee training programs to better support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Additionally, SM Cinemaprioritizes accessibility features within their theaters, creating a welcoming environment for all guests.

SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, with programs that support communities, promote social inclusion, and care for the environment. Aside from the program on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Rising star Marianne Beatriz Bermundo, Cloud 7 lead charity concert 'Nasa Cloud 7 Ako'

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Jan 22, 2025 07:16 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• In addition to her musical endeavors, Marianne is taking on a leading role in the upcoming advocacy film Ako si Kindness, directed by award-winning filmmaker Crisaldo V. Pablo. 

Marianne Beatriz Bermundo

At just 18, Marianne Beatriz Bermundo is stepping into a new world - showbusiness. As a rising performer and actress, she will join Cloud 7, a P-pop group and GMA Sparkle artist, a one-of-a-kind charity post-Valentine’s concert, "Nasa Cloud 7 Ako" at Music Museum, Greenhills, San Juan City, on Feb. 28. This electrifying event will not only showcase her musical talents but also support a meaningful cause.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Marianne is taking on a leading role in the upcoming advocacy film Ako si Kindness, directed by award-winning filmmaker Crisaldo V. Pablo. This marks a significant leap in her acting career and is a testament to her commitment to using her platform for social impact.

Presented by The LoveLife Project in collaboration with BEST Magazine, RDH Entertainment, and YEAHA Channel, Ako si Kindness is a five-episode teen drama series supported by the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT).  

The series tells the inspiring story of a young girl who chooses kindness as a guiding principle to navigate life’s challenges, encouraging her community to embrace compassion and collaboration. "Ako si Kindness" will premiere in July at the Persons with Disabilities Film Festival, followed by screenings on national television, social media, and campuses. 

Cloud 7

The series aims to spark meaningful conversations on kindness and resilience with the leadership of kindness advocate Richard Hinola. Through RDH Entertainment, partnerships are encouraged to further amplify this impactful kindness campaign.

Born in Sta. Ana, Manila, Marianne’s journey has been self-discovery, growth, and overcoming challenges. A proud student at Manila Adventist College, she is the daughter of Virginia and Mark Donald Bermundo. 

Marianne’s story goes beyond her beauty pageant successes—it’s about the strength, perseverance, and grace she embodies. Her defining moment came when she participated in and won several beauty pageants, including Queen Humanity International 2023, Miss Teen Culture World International 2023, and Little Miss Universe Philippines 2021. 

She shares, “It’s not just about winning a crown; it’s about learning, growing, and discovering who I truly am.”

From left: Virgie Batalla Bermundo, international fashion designer; Richard Hinola,
talent manager & publisher, BEST Magazine; Marianne Beatriz Bermundo, beauty queen and actress; Melvin Tagulao, GMA handler, PR, and blogger; and Jhay Layson–Manahing, director TCMI Fashion and Cloud 7 talent manager.

Despite her impressive titles, what truly defines Marianne is her humility, grace, and grounded nature. She reflects, “What keeps me grounded is the love and support from the people around me. Even when I succeed, I try to remain humble and selfless.”

Marianne Beatriz Bermundo is more than just a beauty queen. She is a young woman whose story of resilience, perseverance, and dedication continues to inspire others. 

As she ventures into the worlds of performance and acting, she proves that the true value of a crown lies in the heart behind it.

"14 Wisdoms to Achieve Peace of Mind”

 "14 Wisdoms to Achieve Peace of Mind”

1. The ultimate trust is when people mock you, but you remain silent because you know who you are and who they are.

2. Quiet people are either carrying a big sorrow or a big dream.

3. You didn't create this world to impose your conditions on others. First, correct yourself so that you can be an example to others, then expect them to be like you.

4. Arguing with ignorant people is like drawing on water, no matter how hard you try, you won't achieve anything.

5. Shoes have tongues but don't speak, tables have legs but don't walk, pens have wings but don't fly, clocks have hands but don't hold, and many people have minds but don't think.

6. They speak ill of you, then sit with you and smile at your face, these are the worst people.

7. Difficult times are the best way to reveal a person's true character.

8. Small-minded people have small problems, while big-minded people don't have time for problems.

9. Don't be close to someone who makes you happy, but be close to someone who is only happy with you.

10. People are like waves, if you go with them, they will drown you, and if you oppose them, they will exhaust you.

11. I don't know the secret of success, but the secret of failure is trying to please everyone.

12. I am determined to achieve my goal, either I will succeed, or I will succeed, or I will succeed.

13. If we didn't have the blessing of forgetting, many of us would go crazy.

Most importantly: 14. Remove yourself from the list of stingy people and send blessings to the Seal of the Prophets. These wisdoms will not only bring you peace of mind but also help you improve your life."

Quimbo joins rally, asks senators to prioritize bill on seniors' universal social pension

BY ELLSON QUISMORIO

Jan 21, 2025 07:05 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Showing her commitment to senior citizens' welfare, Marikina 2nd district Rep. Stella Quimbo joined a rally at the Senate on Monday, Jan. 20, to push for the passage of the proposed Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens Act. 

Marikina City 2nd district Rep. Stella Quimbo speaks to her fellow rallyists outside the Senate in Pasay City (Rep. Quimbo’s office)  

Showing her commitment to senior citizens' welfare, Marikina 2nd district Rep. Stella Quimbo joined a rally at the Senate on Monday, Jan. 20, to push for the passage of the proposed Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens Act.

“The Universal Social Pension Act is about fairness and dignity. It ensures that no Filipino senior is left behind, regardless of their economic status. This is our way of giving back to those who have contributed so much to society,” said Quimbo, acting chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations. 

Thousands of senior citizens and supporters attended the rally to highlight the financial challenges faced by the aging population in the Philippines. Quimbo emphasized the importance of passing the bill, which has already been approved by the House of Representatives but has yet to advance in the Senate.  

The rally sought to urge senators to prioritize the legislation, which aimed to establish universal coverage by providing every Filipino aged 60 and above with a guaranteed monthly pension.  

Quimbo penned and filed House Bill (HB) No.10423 (Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens Act), which was passed by the House of Representatives in 2024.  

Several elderly citizens from Marikina, who support the bill, joined the congresswoman at the rally.  

The proposed legislation seeks to address critical gaps in the current system under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act (RA 9994). The current framework limits pension eligibility to indigent seniors. 

This exclusionary provision leaves millions of elderly Filipinos who may not meet the criteria for indigence but still face financial hardships without access to necessary support. Of the 4.085 million seniors listed under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) social pension program, only 783,000 have received payouts due to logistical delays and issues with local government units (LGU) compliance in liquidation processes.  

Key provisions of the bill include automatic pension eligibility for all Filipinos aged 60 and above, efficient distribution mechanisms with no transaction fees, and provisions to ensure funds are used efficiently and rolled over when unused.  

"By extending pensions to all senior citizens, we can reduce inequality and ensure that no one is excluded from receiving the support they deserve. This social pension will be a vital lifeline for seniors without other income sources, significantly reducing their risk of poverty," Quimbo said.

"Moreover, the increased spending capacity of our elderly will stimulate local economies, especially small and medium enterprises, as they invest in essential goods and services," added the aspiring Marikina mayor.

The growing demographic trends in the country show that the senior citizen population is expected to reach nearly 11 million by the end of 2025. Many of these individuals face significant financial and health-related vulnerabilities, with 59 percent of their medical expenses paid out-of-pocket in 2018.  

Quimbo stressed the urgency of addressing these inequities through universal pension coverage. “This bill is not just about numbers; it’s about lives. Our seniors deserve to retire with dignity and the financial means to meet their basic needs,” she said. 

 

Cool Smashers stake unbeaten record vs Solar Spikers

BY KRISTEL SATUMBAGA-VILLAR

Jan 20, 2025 01:03 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Creamline stakes its unbeaten run when it tangles with Capital1 on Tuesday, Jan. 21, in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. 

Creamline stakes its unbeaten run when it tangles with Capital1 on Tuesday, Jan. 21, in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Creamline is gunning for its fifth straight win against Capital1. (PVL Images)

Set at 4 p.m., the Cool Smashers are gunning for their fifth consecutive victory in their first match of the year after the holiday break against the Solar Spikers, who are seeking to crawl out from near the cellar with their 1-4 win-loss card.

Also out to extend its winning run is Petro Gazz as it aims to hike its 5-1 record when it takes on Chery Tiggo (4-2) in the 6:30 p.m. nightcap. 

Cignal (4-1) and Galeries Tower (1-5), two teams coming from different ends, collide in the 1:30 p.m. opener.

Showcasing their depth and talent that won them the Grand Slam last year, Creamline expects to continue that same firepower in this six-month long conference.

Out of their four triumphs, they have only dropped three sets so far.

Anchoring the squad as usual are Bernadeth Pons, Jema Galanza and Michele Gumabao in facing the Solar Spikers, who recently beefed up their roster following the acquisition of outside hitter Trisha Genesis. 

Genesis is expected to join forces with Leila Cruz, Jorelle Singh and Des Clemente with high hopes of pulling off an upset win against their favored rivals.

Meanwhile, Petro Gazz aims to pick up where it left off in keeping its place atop the leaderboard, with Brooke Van Sickle slated to fire up its assault along with MJ Phillips and Myla Pablo.

Chery Tiggo, for its part, has its own deadly trio in Cess Robles, Ara Galang and Aby Maraño in teaming up with new recruit Risa Sato.

EU and the Philippines to boost seafarers’ training, certification, and labor conditions

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Jan 20, 2025 02:41 PM 

 

Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific of the European External Action Service Niclas Kvarnström meets the media on his first visit to the Philippines.

Filipino seafarers stand to benefit from a joint initiative between the European Union (EU) and the Philippines to enhance maritime education, training, certification, and labor conditions.

In a special press briefing on Dec. 2, 2024, organized by the European Union Embassy, Niclas Kvarnström, managing director for Asia and the Pacific of the European External Action Service, emphasized the Philippines’ importance as a partner of the EU. “Our relationship with the Philippines has remained strong and multi-dimensional,” he stated. As such, people-to-people exchanges and capacity-building initiatives for seafarers are high on the agenda of the EU.

Kvarnström, who is leading the EU contingent in the Fourth Joint Committee with the Philippines, highlighted the EU's commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas beyond maritime training.

This initiative is part of the EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package (SCOPE), which includes a €4 million allocation to improve seafarer training and certification in the Philippines. The program, launched last month, aims to ensure Filipino seafarers remain globally competitive while benefiting from fair labor conditions.

He also met with key government officials and civil society organizations and discussed areas of mutual interest to both the EU and the Philippines.   

European Union Ambassador Massimo Santoro added, “The European Union is collaborating with the Philippines to improve and sustain the quality of the country’s system of maritime education, training, and certification. These efforts ultimately support global trade and economic stability.”

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Maritime Higher Education Institutions, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are key stakeholders in this initiative.

BusinessMirror’s Malou Talosig Bartolome, Manila Bulletin’s Badett Cunanan, European Union  Ambassador Massimo Santoro, Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service Niclas Kvarnström, and Philippine Star Pia Lee Brago 

It will be recalled that the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport extended its recognition last April 2023 of the Philippine government’s maritime education, training, and certification for seafarers after taking note of the country’s actions in addressing some of its serious deficiencies.

Filipino seafarers were facing a ban from European-flagged vessels following a detailed assessment of the training and certification system in place in the Philippines in December 2021. The Commission said it would withdraw recognition of Philippines-issued seafarer certificates unless serious measures were taken, including the compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

With approximately 1.15 million seafarers—the Philippines is a leading supplier of maritime talent, providing approximately 25 percent of the global seafaring workforce. The shipping sector is a key pillar of the Philippine economy, making substantial contributions to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Over the next three years, the initiative will help train Filipino seafarers so they can continue working internationally and under good labor conditions.

In addition to the seafarer training initiative, Kvarnström also discussed other global challenges, including disinformation campaigns stemming from countries involved in conflicts and international issues. “We are actively working with the Philippines to counter disinformation and cyber threats. Strengthening civil society is critical to building resilience against these challenges,” he explained. 

He further stressed the importance of global cooperation in securing cyberspace. “Responsible actors who adhere to international law must work together to ensure cyberspace remains secure and governed by principles of justice and accountability,” Kvarnström concluded.

Carmelle Collado emerges as Tawag Ng Tanghalan school showdown grand champion

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Jan 20, 2025 04:21 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• 'It’s Showtime' announced the return of 'Sexy Babe' and the launch of new segment 'Hide and Sing.' 

Carmelle Collado

Carmelle Collado of King Thomas Learning Academy, Inc. was hailed as the first-ever grand champion of the School Showdown edition of “Tawag ng Tanghalan" during its grand finals on “It’s Showtime” last Jan. 18.

Carmelle earned a total average score 98 percent from the hurado scores, beating her fellow contenders Isay Olarte of City College of Calapan, who scored 97.7 percent, and Arvery Lagoring of Claret School-Lamitan, who got 92.5 percent.

As the grand champion, Carmelle will take home P1 million, a management contract from Star Magic, a recording and music label contract from Star Music, and a trophy created by renowned Filipino sculptor Ronald Castillo. Her school King Thomas Learning Academy, Inc. will also receive P100,000.

In the final round, the talented student from Camarines Sur earned a standing ovation from the judges and the madlang people after performing a powerful medley of Aretha Franklin hits “Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Ain’t No Way.”

Carmelle impressed the 17 “Tawag Ng Tanghalan” hurados Louie Ocampo, Ogie Alcasid, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Marco Sison, Nonoy Zuniga, Jolina Magdangal, Yeng Constantino, Erik Santos, Kyla, Nyoy Volante, Jed Madela, Bituin Escalante, Klarisse De Guzman, Darren, Dingdong Avanzado, Kean Cipriano, and Sofronio Vasquez.

Meanwhile, the “It’s Showtime” hosts announced the return of “Sexy Babe” and the launch of new segment “Hide and Sing” on Monday. 

Don't miss the excitement and fun on "It's Showtime," Mondays to Saturdays, 12NN, on GMA, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, GTV, Kapamilya Online Live on ABS-CBN Entertainment's YouTube channel, and Facebook page, iWantTFC, and TFC IPTV. Catch its online show, "Showtime Online U," on It's Showtime's YouTube channel.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Our globe and its population bear innumerable strange facts. Following many people's opinion, this world shows mostly worried characteristics and symptoms nowadays. No wonder. Just try to consume and digest today's headlines and news from all around the globe.

It is a world with quickly bridged distances -  our Mother earth is becoming smaller and smaller. Any tourist, even with little time and with only a small budget, can travel to other faraway cultures. But joining them as well as different races and religious communities requires first of all, great care, tact, instinctive feelings, empathy, and logical ideas.

The stranger whom we meet for the first time during a business meeting, for example, maybe an uncommon, odd and extraordinary guy. He may be someone from a foreign country, who speaks another language and whose skin is of another color. He may be a migrant, a restless hiker or the expatriate in our neighbourhood.

The foreigner beside you and me can become a provocation or a challenge. Strangeness can become exoticism. Maybe that's why my family and I decided to move to the Philippines already in 1999. On the other hand - going abroad can open other and even better horizons. We must not feel as "a stranger in paradise". By the way, I never did since I have been touring around the globe many times.

However, a migrant bears a juxtaposition of optimism (even calculated optimism!), confused feelings, nostalgia, and homesickness. Yes guys, during the first two years of my expat's life in the Philippines, the round trip ticket was always in my mind, because no one among us can escape his native roots.

But, I am really a lucky guy. I experienced an amazing tolerance in the Philippines. A real practicing tolerance. Already, during my first business meetings, I met supportive, forbearing and  broad minded people. A wonderful mix of different cultures without giving up their own identity... .

Every new challenge in a strange country means a change. Changes in life are necessary and important. Let's alter or make a difference; let's put one thing for another; let's shift; let's quit one state for another; let's take fresh clothing. Let's burn the "lock fat" away. And remember: nothing comes from anything.

A LEADER'S HEART

 

I am 71 now. I travelled all around the world. I met innumerable leaders in different companies and institutions. I experienced "good" and "bad" leaders.  My "good" leaders, just a handful, became my mentors. Each one in his or her own very special way. The others I sorted out. Forgot them... .

Quitters never win and winners never quit! Basta! My first leader's motif -  a publishing house manager, whom I met during my college time. This saying has been imprinted in my mind till today. As a result, when I started teaching German language in the Institute of Languages at University of Southeastern Philippines  years ago, I used this and other sayings to help my students remember the key points.

As I said before: a handful of great leaders crossed my path. In Germany, in the U.S. and lately also here in the Philippines. I learned a lot from them and their behavior. I also learned from negative leaders, those catching people doing things wrong. Why don't leaders spend at least an hour a week wandering around their operation catching people doing things right AND wrong?

Many leaders wait to praise their people until they do things exactly right. Problem: one waits forever.

Up to now, I see a lot of unmotivated people at work or students at school, but I have never seen them after work or school! When office is done and school is over, people race to do such things that provide them with positive feedback on results.

In one of my previous write-ups, I mentioned: Dream hard but work harder. I have to rethink this. How about this: Don't work hard - work smarter. This saying is common sense but not common practice as America's best-selling business author Ken Blanchard voiced it out. If you don't take time out to think, strategize, and prioritize, you'll work a whole lot harder, without enjoying the benefits of a job smartly done. As an ordinary worker or as the Big Boss.

Leadership and communication are two areas in  which we can continue to develop virtually forever.