Take it from Kim Chiu: Celebrate the small wins

 

Jerry Donato - The Philippine Star 

December 23, 2024 | 12:00am

Kim Chiu, the Tanduay Calendar Girl for 2025, shares her thoughts about success and life. ‘(As for) my definition of success, (it is) to keep going and never stop. You may take a rest for a while and just keep going and reach for your dreams,’ says she. ‘I also celebrate the smallest milestones and small wins I have.’ 

MANILA, Philippines — Kim Chiu is known to her legion of fans and in the local tinseltown as the “Pinoy Big Brother: Teen” housemate and big winner, The Chinita Princess, and the Kapamilya performer and actress.

Recently, she has been named the Tanduay Calendar Girl 2025.

“Minsan akala mo, ito kana, parang (sometimes you’d think) ‘I’ve reached my peak, ito na yun,’ but life gives you a lot of surprises, na parang, ‘Wow, meron pa pala (there’s more I can do),’” said Kim of her latest endorsement and project in a recent press conference. “So, never stop dreaming, never stop believing, and just keep going.”

As for her message to fellow women out there, she shared, “I think this (being a calendar girl) is a reminder that there is no dream that is too big, no milestone that is too far. There’s a saying that goes: ‘Success is not about where you’ve been, (it’s) where you’re willing to go,’” shared Kim, “and that’s my definition of success, to keep going and never stop. Pwede naman mag-stop for a while, (take a) rest and just keep going and reach for your dreams.”

Such an attitude or mindset will make things happen and also bring unexpected blessings.

n established celebrity, Kim is now representing a woman who is confident, empowered, resilient, and strong.

In every endeavor she forays into, Kim said she is happy that her following and “the people who love me and support me, they’ve been with me from the beginning until now. I’m happy to have all of them, kasi alam ko talaga na lagi nila akong pinagtatanggol (because I know they will always defend me) and they give me support every time.”

According to Kim, she did 10 layouts as the Tanduay Calendar Girl and had two-to-three-month preparation, including mental readiness, for the photo shoot.

As a manner of speaking, it took a village to mount such a project. Thus, Kim was grateful to her team and the Tanduay team.

“I think it’s more than just being a calendar girl. It’s about breaking down the barriers. It’s about embracing my confidence, and it’s about celebrating every step of my journey and I’ve enjoyed everything from the start until today, na-e-enjoy ko yung journey ko here in show business and also in my personal life,” Kim shared some of her thoughts during the event and emphasized the importance of celebrating one’s every step to achieve a personal goal.

“Kahit yung two-kilometer run, i-celebrate mo, ‘Naka-two kilometer run ako, congratulations.’ (Even completing a two-kilometer-run, you celebrate it and congratulate yourself),” said she. “So, that’s how I see life, I celebrate even the smallest milestone na meron ako, small wins. If you combine all them together, it’s gonna be extra, extra big.”

For the coming year, especially in its first quarter, what fans can look forward to from Kim aside from being a calendar girl?

She answered, “I also have a movie with Star Cinema with Paulo Avelino, and it’s gonna be this February and the title is ‘My Love Will Make You Disappear.’”

DOH explains ‘holiday heart syndrome’ and tips for prevention this festive season

BY ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Dec 23, 2024 01:50 PM 

Photo from Pixabay

As Filipinos celebrate the holiday season with family gatherings, festive feasts, and joyful reunions, the Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, Dec. 23 reminded everyone to be mindful of their health. 

During the “Ligtas Christmas” hospital preparedness and response rounds, DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa highlighted the risks of “holiday heart syndrome,” a condition that can lead to serious health issues such as stroke, especially when individuals indulge in excesses during the festivities.

The DOH explained that holiday heart syndrome is a health condition triggered by a combination of excessive alcohol consumption, stress, lack of rest, and overeating rich, salty, or fatty foods—habits that are common during the holiday season.  

These factors can lead to high blood pressure, resulting in arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythms), which increases the risk of stroke. 

To prevent such health complications, the DOH continues to encourage every Filipino family to maintain a healthy lifestyle through proper diet, regular exercise, and discipline during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“The Department of Health cares for our fellow countrymen. Just as you take care of your loved ones, we remind you to avoid overeating salty, fatty, and sweet foods this holiday season. Eat more vegetables and fruits, which should make up half of your ‘pinggang pinoy’ (Filipino plate). Find time to exercise," Herbosa said.

Surge in stroke cases 

During the DOH inspection, the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) reported approximately 60 stroke cases from July to November.

Additionally, seven stroke cases were recorded before Christmas, from Dec. 1 to 20. 

The DOH warned that the number of stroke cases could rise further after Christmas and New Year if excessive alcohol consumption and food intake from consecutive holiday feasts are not controlled. 

PHC had already observed a similar increase in 2023. 

In December 2023, there were 38 stroke cases, which rose to 42 by January 2024, marking the highest number of stroke cases for the entire year. 

Similarly, 110 cases of acute coronary heart syndrome recorded in December 2023 rose to 115 by January 2024. 

The East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC) also reported a continuous rise in stroke cases, particularly in December, from 2020 to 2023.

The number of stroke patients increased from 188 in December 2020 to 226 in December 2021, and further to 247 in December 2022.

In December 2023, the number of stroke cases at EAMC reached 328.

For the first time, the DOH included private hospitals in the hospital preparedness and response rounds.

In the activity, St. Luke's Medical Center in Quezon City also reported a rise in stroke cases.

In 2023, the hospital recorded 415 stroke cases, up from 295 in 2022.

From January to November 2024, the hospital discharged 339 stroke patients.

Aliw Awards nominee Joice Espinoza drops original song ‘Pangako Mo’

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Dec 23, 2024 12:45 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Espinoza has garnered a nomination for Best New Female Artist at the 37th Aliw Awards. 

Joice Espinoza

Joice Espinoza, born in Olongapo City, grew up in a family that supported her as a child and encouraged her to discover her authentic self.

Espinoza was intensely interested in music, pageantry, and the performing arts from an early age. She developed a passion for music while listening to theme songs from children's shows and cartoons, and her parents observed her ability to sing in tune.

“I just watched kids' shows and cartoons and sang along to their many theme songs, which was my first introduction to music and singing in general. My parents were amused by my ability to sing in pitch at such a young age. As I grew older, my mother enrolled me in vocal training in our hometown. As the saying goes, practice makes better. I've developed my talents over time by learning new things and participating in competitions to push myself,” she said. 

At the age of 10, Espinoza competed in Princess of the World in Pomorie, Bulgaria, and won in the voice and modeling categories. Her outstanding performance during the talent portion earned her a standing ovation from both the judges and the crowd.

When asked about her memorable experiences in Bulgaria, she shared, “When I won Princess of the World 2017, I was just ten years old. It was truly surprising and unbelievable. I am grateful and honored to have been given the opportunity to raise my flag and pride as a Filipino. Exploring a land where roses thrive is an unforgettable experience; the people are friendly and welcoming. Furthermore, the atmosphere and environment are pleasant, with several tourist attractions.”

Espinoza competed on ABS-CBN's It's Showtime's Tawag Ng Tanghalan Season 7 in 2023, winning the Daily Winner title. Her career in entertainment began with the mentorship of talent manager John Rey Malto, whose advice has been critical to her development. 

The newbie recording artist just debuted her original song, "Pangako Mo," which was penned by John Rey Malto, musically arranged by Adonis Arcilla, with vocals and guitars recorded by Marvin Querido, and mixed and mastered by Angelo M. Rozul. The song went viral, gaining over 1.2 million views and receiving significant acclaim.

“My manager wrote the song. I've realized that the song is about the beauty of promises kept by those who made them—making you feel loved, cared for, and, most importantly, making your trust actually valuable. It's about romanticizing what love provides and teaches, as well as the emotions it might evoke,” the young singer expressed.

After launching her debut single, Espinoza plans to release more songs about her experiences as a young musician discovering her true voice. She also stated that she wishes to collobarate with Lea Salonga.

“We intend to make more music for people to relate to and listen to. My current musical interests include Broadway musicals and the classical genre. I'm more interested in extending my vocal range and versatility since I want to study and increase my understanding of music and performance in general. I'd love to work with Miss Lea Salonga in a musical theater production; her clarity and execution are simply breathtaking, and I look up to her,” she revealed.

When asked how rewarding it is for her to perform on stage, she responded, “The satisfaction I get from performing is fulfilling. Seeing people having a nice time while seeing me perform makes me happy. I enjoy making people feel like they have someone to relate to. Having a mutual connection with someone allows others to deal more effectively and teaches us to be truly appreciative.”

Espinoza has garnered a nomination for Best New Female Artist at the 37th Aliw Awards. Her original song won the Parai Musical International Awards in Chennai, India, and the Global Music Awards 2024 in California. The music video for her song was also awarded at the World Music and Independent Film Festival in Virginia, United States.

Modern ports and airports: PH growth catalysts

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Dec 23, 2024 01:50 AM 

 

The Philippines is on the brink of transformative growth, fueled by major infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing its ports and airports. These initiatives, such as the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by the San Miguel Corporation-led consortium, and the newly inked agreements for the Cebu International Container Port, Bohol Panglao International Airport, New Dumaguete Airport, and New Siargao Airport, are milestones that promise to reshape the country’s economic landscape. 

At their core, modernized airports and seaports are lifelines for an archipelagic nation like the Philippines. They address the logistical challenges posed by the country’s fragmented geography, enabling efficient movement of goods, people, and services. More importantly, these infrastructure projects signify more than just enhanced connectivity. These are strategic investments with multiplier effects that reverberate throughout the economy.

State-of-the-art airports and ports are gateways to international trade and tourism. For instance, a modernized NAIA is not just about easing air travel congestion; it enhances the Philippines’ global competitiveness, attracting more airlines and tourists. Similarly, the new Cebu International Container Port will strengthen the region’s position as a trading hub, reducing logistical bottlenecks and lowering the cost of doing business.

Modern infrastructure attracts foreign direct investments (FDIs), as investors seek efficient logistics and connectivity to support their operations. With improved transport facilities, export-oriented industries—such as electronics, agriculture, and garments—can operate more effectively, enabling the Philippines to tap into regional and global supply chains. This sets the stage for sustained economic growth, job creation, and a stronger fiscal position.

The benefits of modern infrastructure extend beyond metropolitan centers. Improved connectivity through airports and ports accelerates the development of rural and remote areas. For instance, better air access to destinations like Bohol, Dumaguete, and Siargao will not only boost local tourism but also encourage investments in agriculture, crafts, and eco-tourism. The influx of tourists and businesses provides rural communities with expanded markets for their products and services, raising incomes and reducing poverty.

Moreover, these projects foster inclusive growth by enabling the government to deliver services more effectively. Efficient transportation systems ensure that essential goods such as food, medicine, and agricultural inputs reach rural areas in a timely manner. They also facilitate access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities, empowering local populations to improve their quality of life.

The completion of these infrastructure developments within the next few years is crucial as the Philippines seeks to position itself as a rising economic powerhouse in Southeast Asia. Competing with neighboring countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia requires a robust infrastructure backbone. Modern airports and ports send a strong message to the world: the Philippines is ready to do business.

To maximize these benefits, it is imperative for the government and private sector to ensure that these projects are implemented efficiently and sustainably. Stakeholder engagement, transparent bidding processes, and adherence to environmental and social safeguards are essential in preventing delays and inefficiencies.

Investing in modern ports and airports is investing in the Philippines’ future. Beyond their immediate utility, these projects catalyze economic activity, uplift rural communities, and enhance the country’s standing in the global economy. As these ambitious infrastructure projects take flight, they bring with them the promise of a more connected, competitive, and inclusive Philippines—one that is poised to soar to greater heights.

Remembering the best MMFF films

The 50th anniversary calls for celebrating the most unforgettable in local cinema

BY RICA AREVALO

Dec 21, 2024 11:05 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Mike de Leon’s chilling Kisapmata won Best Film at the 7th MMFF awards. Who can forget the performances of Vic Silayan and Charo Santos in this dark world of silence and violence? 

As the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) celebrates its golden anniversary, let us look back on cinematic treasures produced in the last five decades.

 

Eddie Romero’s Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon? was screened on Christmas day of 1976. The epic period drama starring Christopher de Leon and Gloria Diaz from a screenplay of the young Roy Iglesias tackled the Filipinos’ plight during the Spanish and American colonization. 

 

WHAT'S YOUR PICK Gloria Romero shares her MMFF experience

 

Gloria Diaz recalled during the Centennial Commemoration: Director Eddie Romero, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts last month at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City when Christopher de Leon and Eddie Romero won awards at the MMFF. “I was left alone on the table,” she muses. “I don’t think anybody noticed—I was just by myself.” Everyone was asked to come onstage for a photo opportunity. “Again, I was left alone,” the former Miss Universe winner confessed. When she went home, at six in the morning, her phone rang. It was Eddie Romero telling her, “I think I owe you something.” Gloria started to cry and he offered her her next movie, Sinong Kapiling, Sinong Kasipin? 

CHILLING PERFORMANCES Vic Silayan and Charo Santos in Mike de Leon's Kisapmata

 

Mike de Leon’s chilling Kisapmata won Best Film at the 7th MMFF awards. Who can forget the performances of Vic Silayan and Charo Santos in this dark world of silence and violence? The film was inspired by The House on Zapote Street written by Nick Joaquin. It established Mike de Leon as one of the greatest directors of his generation. This was also screened at the Directors’ Fortnight at the 35th Cannes Film Festival.

 

 

Olongapo, The Great American Dream by Chito S. Roño discovered the talented Jaclyn Jose (Raquel) as a young Amerasian looking for a real home along the dirty streets of the red-light district of ‘Gapo. She longs for her long-lost American father, dreaming of a better life. Torn between choosing her boyfriend or living in America, she chooses the chance “to be whatever” she wants to be—anywhere. The o film also stars Joel Torre, Susan Africa, and Chanda Romero.

TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE Aga Muhlach and Lea Salonga in Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal

The love triangle-themed Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal by Jose Javier Reyes starring Lea Salonga, Aga Muhlach, and Ariel Rivera is one of the best romantic comedies produced in Philippine cinema. An unexpected romance between Sandy (Salonga) and her fiancé’s friend (Muhlach) occurs as wedding preparations are ongoing for Sandy and David (Rivera). The film won Best Actor for Muhlach and Best Supporting Actor for Rivera.  

 

Christmas is for children and the Filipino family so Magic Temple was a hit in the 1996 MMFF season. Directed by Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes from a screenplay by Erik Matti, the fantasy adventure looks into the journey of three kids, starring Jason Salcedo, Junell Hernando, and Marc Solis as they train with their master to fight wicked forces. Its visual effects were commendable at that time from the mastery of Benny Batoctoy.

 

One of my earliest recollections of watching short films on the big screen was the MMFF short film competition in 1997 where I was glued to Nonoy Dadivas’ Anak Maynila, an animated film using still photos and drawing, shot in 35mm film camera. It was a touching, powerful drama about an impoverished mother carrying her son to Quiapo Church asking for alms.

 

Laho by Fruto Corre is a short feature on an innocent boy playing basketball in a deserted town in Pampanga at the time of Mount Pinatubo eruption where lahar displaced and devastated the community.

 

This Christmas, 10 homegrown Filipino-produced MMFF films are on offer to the Filipino audience. The film industry needs to be sustainable and it is the moviegoing public who will help our Filipino talents be discovered to the world. Let us all watch the 2024 MMFF entries at cinemas nationwide.

AUDIOJUNKIE: Weaving wild dreams

BY PUNCH LIWANAG

Dec 23, 2024 08:47 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• So, as Marion and Ashley build on every indie artist's dream, the music will come. 

Wild Dream Records Ashley Cool Cat Ash Aunor (left) and Marion Aunor

There’s a 1989 film called “Field Of Dreams” where the main character, a farmer named Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner), against better judgement, built a Baseball field where his cornfield used to be. Despite being mocked, Ray went and built the damn thing. It's hard not to when you have a voice whispering, ‘if you build it, he will come’ in your head like Ray did. 

It's kind of like the same thing with Wild Dream Records. But instead of a bodiless voice whispering instructions, sisters Marion and Ashley Aunor only hear the music.

“The goal is to create a label by dreamers, for dreamers,” said Marion. “I was once an aspiring singer-songwriter too, so I wanted to help other dreamers like me pursue their music passions.” Marion also added that as a music label, “Wild Dream Records takes on a lot of genres from alt-pop, alternative rock to rap.” Still, the binding element in their creative weave is that “together, we’re all aspiring singer-songwriters.”  

Wild Dream Records group photo

Since 2021, Wild Dream Records has been building a menage of creatives, starting with Matt Wilson, solo act Minimal Days, and rapper Pecado. All three write their material and are quite successful at it, too. Matt Wilson, for one, already has a hit with sparkly “Alitaptap.” Ditto with Minimal Days, whose dreamy “11,100 Days” became an oft-used soundtrack on socials by Gen-Z 

And that was just the start. WDR has since added Baguio-based band Preza (Spanish for Strawberry) to the roster and whose brand of retropop-hued debut single “Saksi” is certainly compelling. As WDR’s first female act, Bianca Denise is doing Marion Aunor proud with her sweet and soothing acoustic ballad sound in her own debut titled “Ihahatid.” And then there’s up-and-coming band Midnight Talking, which has a mix of funk and pop that promises to be electric this early. 

A&R head and music producer Ashley (a.k.a. Cool Cat Ash) is all about believing in their artist’s talents. She also has an admirable philosophy in taking on acts. “They always say, just go for the artist with numbers, but actually, we’re here for ‘yung may puso din.’” And as per Ashley, Wild Dream is about finding the artist’s goal and purpose. “What are they about? Where’s the ‘why’ in their music, and will it align with our ‘why’ as a label?” It starts with that. Instead of saying, "Here's our product, we’re offering you why there’s a purpose to what we’re doing.”   

Cool Cat Ash, Matt Wilson, and Marion

Ultimately, co-founders Marion and Ashley Aunor and Wild Dream Records are signing up “passionate individuals with a story to share with the world.”  So far, both have proven that their ears are as keen as their eyes when scoping out these singer-songwriters whose music resonates with people. And as active music acts, Marion and Ashley bring real-world experience to the table for their artist’s benefit.

“Many indie artists now can just put out a song, but what we provide is guidance in all respects: songwriting, branding and packaging,” Marion said. Those and all other intangibles would only serve to advance Wild Dream artists. And what artist wouldn’t say yes to acquiring some of Marion and Ashley’s Berkeley College-acquired training to benefit their own music journey?

So, as Marion and Ashley build on every indie artist's dream, the music will come.

How wild is that?

God’s mysterious will and ways

 

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

THAT otherwise amusing story of how the baby of Elizabeth and Zechariah was

to be called John instead of Zechariah as their neighbors expected (cfr. Lk 1,57-66)

somehow tells us that in our life we have to contend with certain mysteries that often

defy common sense, logic, tradition and our other human and natural ways.

We should just be humble enough to realize that our natural certainties can never

cope with all the mysteries of life. No matter how objective and scientific these

certainties are derived, no matter how deep and exhaustive our philosophies, theologies

and ideologies are made, our certainties just cannot take all the mysteries in our life.

Even in the world of nature where in theory we have the capacity to know things

conclusively, we often find ourselves in situations of tentativeness and even of outright

error. That is why we are always in the process of discoveries and we would not know

when we can end it, that is to say, when we can say that we have known everything to

be known in the world of nature.

This does not mean that our certainties can never know the truth, even the

absolute, and not just relative truths. Yes, we can, but the best that we can do is to

project ourselves to infinite possibilities, because even the absolute truths are not things

that are frozen. They are always dynamic, requiring us to always deepen and grow in

our understanding and appreciation of them.

The task we have is how to correspond to this tremendous reality of living our life

within the whole mystery of God’s life. Many of us still think that we are quite by

ourselves, and the decision to relate ourselves with God and others is purely optional.

No, sir. Our relationship with God, while an option—in fact, a fundamental

option—is never optional, something we can feel quite free to have or not to have. We

would be incomplete without God.

We need to be more aware of this marvelous truth. And from there, to start the

lifelong journey of conforming our life to that of God, overcoming first our initial human

awkwardness in the face of our supernatural goal, and then developing the virtues that

little by little would resemble us with God.

It’s a process of always conquering new frontiers and defending our fronts from

the enemies of God and of our soul.

May it be that our thoughts are also God’s thoughts. And may our words and

actions not be just our words and actions, but also God’s. That’s how we are meant to

be!

On God’s part, everything has been provided for us to reach the goal. He always

gives us his grace. He sends us the Holy Spirit, our sanctifier with his gifts and fruits, so

that we can concur with God’s actions and designs.

We’ve been given God’s word, a living and definite revelation so we can enter

into the mind of God. We have been given the sacraments and the Church itself, so that

God continues to be with us and in us in a very direct and abiding way while still

journeying in this earthly life.

So, we should just learn how to live with mysteries in our whole life. They make

our life assume the character of an adventure, a thriller, but a divine one, since it is

directed by God himself. He plays with us and we should just be sport about it and enjoy

it as much as possible even if contradictions can come along

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.”

Global pilgrimage of Christmas: Home is where the heart is

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Dec 22, 2024 06:37 AM 

 

Today, millions of people around the world are on their way home to join their families for Christmas.

From bustling airports to crowded bus terminals, the desire to reunite with loved ones transcends borders, religions, and cultures, reflecting humanity’s shared yearning for connection, tradition, and celebration. In our culture, this is the time when the extended family comes to life, adding close friends to the clan.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) expects some seven million passengers to flock to bus terminals, airports and sea ports around the country to spend the Christmas and New Year holidays with their families.

To ensure public safety, nearly 40,000 police personnel have been deployed nationwide to secure bus terminals, ports, places of worship, tourist destinations, and other places of convergence, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

Christmas, for many, is a time of reflection and joy, symbolizing love, gratitude, and togetherness. These universal values draw people back to their roots. 

Globally, billions of people participate in this seasonal migration. In the United States, a record for holiday travel will be made with 120 million people traveling at least 50 miles from home between Saturday and New Year's Day in 2024, the American Automobile Association (AAA) predicted. 

In the Philippines, holiday travelers plus the influx of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) create a surge in air travel and domestic transport systems.  In response, 956 special permits were granted for public utility vehicles (PUVs), especially passenger buses, in anticipation of the increased number of passengers from this weekend to Jan. 10 next year, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Dec. 19.

The holiday season’s dramatic movement of people places immense pressure on transportation systems worldwide. Airports operate at full capacity, airlines add extra flights, and roads become congested.  Although the government responds with measures deploying additional personnel, and enhancing traffic management, private citizens should do their part to ensure safe and efficient travel.  Road courtesy will help make travel safer and smoother.

What awaits these travelers at home are cherished traditions that have been passed down through generations. Among these is the traditional Noche Buena, a grand Christmas Eve dinner where families gather to feast on a traditional menu. This meal is not just about food but about the warmth of togetherness, laughter, and storytelling.

Gift-giving is another strong element of the season, symbolizing thoughtfulness and love. Filipino children do not only wait for gifts from Santa Claus and their parents, but also from their ninongs, ninangs (godparents), and relatives.

Beyond material traditions, the deeper reason for the journey home lies in shared experiences and making memories. For Christians, the center of the Christmas celebration is the birth of Jesus Christ, a time to reflect on faith and gratitude. Many memories will be made in churches where traditions of Christmas celebration are performed – like the Simbang Gabi and the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

From the Philippines to other parts of the world, the annual pilgrimage home shows humanity’s shared values of love, gratitude, and togetherness. Whether it’s for a grand feast, or simple meal, exchanging gifts, or simply sitting around the table laughing, Christmas reminds us all of one thing: Home is where the heart is, and family – which also includes friends as adopted members – is what makes it a whole family.

Invite a friend to join your family for Christmas Eve. Be extra courteous to a motorist and pedestrian. Reach out to a stranger with a kind act.