Geneva Cruz's 'Gen Evolution' concert all set for Sept. 13 at Music Museum

 

By Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Published Sep 10, 2025 02:53 pm      

Gen Xers, Gen Zs, millennials, and OPM fans will be in full party mode this coming Saturday, Sept. 13, 8 pm at the Music Museum, as Geneva Cruz finally pushes through with her ‘Gen Evolution' concert.

Put on your dancing shoes and flaunt your best moves amid a groove-inducing remix of chart-topping ‘90s hits. Get ready to sing and scream your hearts out while reprising some of your memorable OPM love songs and anthemic hits.

The much-awaited concert party celebrates her 35th anniversary in showbiz, which started when she burst into the limelight with Smokey Mountain, and eventually evolved into an electrifying concert livewire whose dynamic stage presence – not to mention her sensuous allure – gives a nod to iconic pop superstars such as Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Miley Cyrus.  

Geneva is sure to bridge the generational divide as her timeless originals and electrifying renditions of ‘80s and ‘90s pop hits reunite OPM fans for a night of nostalgia – with a little help from her equally talented celebrity guests.

“It’s finally pushing through!” Geneva exclaims. “I feel it’s high time to reacquaint the younger generation with my music and my brand of high-octane concert performance.”

Even beyond her string of hits, including ‘I Like You,’ ‘Kailan,’ ‘Paraiso,’ ‘Anak ng Pasig, ‘Can This Be Love,’ and many more, Geneva has managed to level up her ‘A’ game by being a poster girl for women's empowerment and social relevance.

As a fitness buff, she continues to defy age with her drop-dead-gorgeous looks and voluptuous curves – a product of rigorous workouts and a positive mindset.   

As a staunch patriot, she is currently a proud reservist who earned her rank of sergeant in the Philippine Air Force’s Reserve Command in March 2022 and continues to support the organization’s medical missions, tree-planting and cleanup sorties, and other grassroots outreach projects.

Through her social media platforms, Geneva continues to inspire others with her ‘never say never’ approach to life – bravely taking on challenges and other lifelong stumbling blocks such as taking up swimming lessons or even participating in her first-ever triathlon (the 2024 Clark Triathlon Classic).

Geneva’s longtime manager, Arnold Vegafria, lauds her for consistently reinventing herself and staying relevant, especially in an industry where new stars emerge overnight. 

He says, “Even as a young girl, she was always fierce. She was a fighter. She knew what she wanted, and she would fight for something that she truly believed in. And it’s amazing how even up to now, such a mindset has led her to accomplish so many things – not just in music, but in finding her true calling and being a light that shines bright for others.”

Directed by Jeffrey Hidalgo, ‘Gen Evolution’ is a production of ALV Events International and ALV Talent Circuit, with Nikko Rivera as musical director.

Tickets are available at TicketWorld and the Music Museum. (Contributed article by Tinnie Esguerra)

HOW TO BE ALWAYS HAPPY IN LIFE?

 HOW TO BE ALWAYS HAPPY IN LIFE?

1. Everyone has problems. You are not alone.

2. Everyone faces tough times. Only people who aren’t alive don’t have challenges.

3. Every problem can be fixed. There are ways to feel better.

4. How you think about yourself affects your happiness. Believe you are special and important. Don’t let negative thoughts win.

5. Don’t stress about what others say. Some people say mean things to hurt you.

6. Spend time with positive people who make you happy. Avoid those who laugh at you or your struggles.

7. Use your free time to enjoy hobbies like sports, games, movies, or browsing online.

8. Don’t let money or fancy things scare you. Someone who is poor today can be rich tomorrow. Change happens all the time.

9. No matter how tough it gets, don’t give up. While you’re alive, there is hope.

10. Pray often. Praying a lot can help bring good things to you faster.

11. Be brave and chase what you want. Life is about taking risks. If you don’t take chances, you won’t get what you really want. Stay true to yourself. Nobody can do what you do better than you. You’re awesome! So just be yourself. Have a great life!

 

PhilHealth to receive biggest subsidy among state firms in 2026

State health insurer Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), which received zero subsidies this year, is proposed to have the highest allocation at ₱53.3 billion under the 2026 national budget. Read more

Das steht im Bekennerschreiben zum Stromausfall in Berlin

 Das steht im Bekennerschreiben zum Stromausfall in Berlin

43.000 Haushalte und 3000 Firmen betroffen

Stromausfall in Berlin. Polizisten stehen an einem der Strommasten, die in Brand gesetzt wurden

Foto: Axel Billig / Pressefoto Wagner   

Berlin – Der Stromausfall in Berlin hat schwere Folgen. Seit den frühen Morgenstunden sind noch immer 31.000 Haushalte und Firmen nach Bränden an Strommasten ohne Elektrizität. Die Notrufnummern 110 und 112 sind teilweise ausgefallen. Der öffentliche Nahverkehr steht still. Die Störungen dauern noch an, im schlimmsten Fall bis Donnerstag. Jetzt gibt es ein Bekennerschreiben.

„Zwei 110KV Strommasten in der Königsheide in Johannisthal wurden durch Brandstiftung der Saft abgedreht und damit ein Blackout im Technologiepark verursacht“, hieß es in dem Text, der auf der linksextremen Plattform Indymedia veröffentlicht wurde.

Das Motiv für den Brandanschlag

Ziel der Aktion in Berlin sei es gewesen, dort ansässige Unternehmen aus den Bereichen IT, Rüstung, Raumfahrt und KI zu treffen. Aus Sicht der Verfasser sollen diese Krieg, Überwachung und Ausbeutung fördern. Mehrere Konzerne wie Atos, DLR, Siemens oder Rohde & Schwarz werden namentlich angegriffen und mit militärisch-industriellen Interessen verknüpft. Das selbsternannte Ziel der Angreifer: kritische Infrastruktur sabotieren und Widerstand gegen Kapitalismus, Militarisierung und Technologisierung leisten.   

Ermittler untersuchen den Strommast auf Spuren

Foto: Olaf Wagner

Das löste der Stromausfall in Berlin aus

Der Stromausfall in Berlin hatte viele fatale Folgen:

• Der öffentliche Nahverkehr war teilweise eingeschränkt. S-Bahnen und Straßenbahnen fielen aus, die Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe richteten einen Ersatzverkehr mit Bussen ein
• Auf den Straßen fielen Ampeln und Straßenlaternen aus
• Der Notruf über die Nummern 110 und 112 war in bestimmten Bereichen nicht erreichbar
• 43.000 Haushalte und 3000 Firmen waren laut Feuerwehr ohne Elektrizität, noch immer sind 31.000 Kunden betroffen
• Schulen, Kitas und zwei Pflegeheime waren ohne Strom
• Zahlreiche Schulen in Treptow-Köpenick bleiben am Mittwoch komplett geschlossen
• Die Feuerwehr musste mehrere Patienten aus den Pflegeheimen, die etwa auf Beatmungen angewiesen waren, in Krankenhäuser verlegen

Wie ein Sprecher von Stromnetz Berlin mitteilte, könnte die Wiederversorgung aller betroffenen Kunden im schlimmsten Fall sogar erst am Donnerstag erfolgen!

Die Feuerwehr richtete rund ein Dutzend Anlaufstellen für die Bevölkerung ein. Auch die Polizei verstärkte ihre Einsatzkräfte in dem Bereich. Die Polizei forderte auch dazu auf, sich in dringenden Notfällen direkt an die nächstgelegene Wache zu wenden.

„Bleiben Sie aufmerksam, helfen Sie ggf. Nachbarinnen bzw. Nachbarn und wählen Sie den direkten Weg zur nächsten Wache, falls ein Notruf nicht möglich ist“, riet die Polizei.

Innensenatorin Iris Spranger (SPD) schickt Lautsprecherwagen in die vom Stromausfall betroffenen Ortsteile im Berliner Bezirk Treptow-Köpenick. Sie sollen „die Bevölkerung unter anderem über Anlaufpunkte informieren“.

Auf dem Warnsystem Katwarn wurde am Mittag eine Warnmeldung der Feuerwehr veröffentlicht. Die Karte zeigt, wo der Notruf 112 in Berlin nicht funktioniert

Foto: Berliner Feuerwehr

So gingen die Täter beim Brandanschlag vor

Der Alarm ging um 3.30 Uhr ein. Das Feuer zerstörte mehrere dicke Starkstromleitungen am Fuß der Masten am Königsheideweg im Bezirk Treptow-Köpenick nahe einem Wohnviertel mit Einfamilienhäusern und viel Grün. Eine Stunde brauchten Feuerwehrleute, um den Brand zu löschen. Die Täter hatten nach ersten Erkenntnissen einen sogenannten Brandbeschleuniger benutzt, also etwa Benzin.

Um 5.09 Uhr war es nach BILD-Informationen infolge des Brandes in den Umspannwerken Moissistraße, Wegedornstraße und Fernheizkraft Neukölln zu einem Ausfall der gesamten Umspannwerke gekommen.

Ein Wagen der Polizei am Anschlagsort in Berlin

Foto: Olaf Wagner

Ein Polizist regelt den Verkehr. Die Ampeln sind ausgefallen

Foto: Jens Kalaene/dpa

Diese Stadtteile sind vom Stromausfall betroffen

Fast 50.000 Kunden von Stromnetz Berlin waren in den Ortsteilen Altglienicke, Grünau, Adlershof, Spindlersfeld, Alt-Johannisthal und Oberschöneweide ohne Elektrizität. Die Feuerwehr sprach von mehr als 43.000 Haushalten und 3000 Firmen. Erst rund sieben Stunden nach dem Brandanschlag konnten 15.000 von knapp 50.000 betroffenen Kunden wieder mit Energie versorgt werden. Man habe Leitungen umgeschaltet, sodass die Versorgung bestimmter Gegenden ab dem späten Vormittag wieder möglich gewesen sei, sagte ein Sprecher von Stromnetz Berlin.

Blick auf einen der Strommasten, der durch die Flammen beschädigt wurde

Foto: Axel Billig / Pressefoto Wagner

So lange dauern die Einschränkungen noch

Wie lange die anderen Haushalte noch auf Strom warten müssen, ist noch unklar. Reparaturen seien laut Stromnetz Berlin so schnell noch nicht möglich gewesen.

Dieses Einkaufscenter in Berlin-Schöneweide ist ohne Strom und daher weitgehend dunkel

Foto: Sven Meissner

Aus Feuerwehrkreisen erfuhr BILD, dass das Schadensbild in etwa vergleichbar mit dem Stromausfall von Köpenick im Jahr 2019 sein soll. Damals waren Zehntausende mehr als 30 Stunden ohne Strom. Daher wurde Stabs-Alarm ausgerufen, was sonst nur z.B. bei schweren Unwettern passiert. Die Ermittlungen wegen der Brandstiftung dauern an.

Signs of Intelligence

I. They never reveal their next move.

2. They are curious.

3. They have high self-control.

4. They speak Less but Listen more.

5. They have a great sense of humor.

6. They never spread rumors.

7. They choose simplicity over complication.

8. They are true to themselves.

9. They go with the flow.

10. They are not easily distracted.

II. They aren't afraid to ask for help.

12. They never stop Learning.

Mrs. Universe PH 2025 Vivian Caramba shares story of elegance, empowerment

 

By Carissa Alcantara

Published Sep 8, 2025 11:51 am | Updated Sep 8, 2025 07:13 pm

At A Glance

• Vivian joined pageantry mainly to inspire other women.   

After competing for the crown of Mrs. Universe 2025 Philippines, successful business owner and beauty queen Vivian Caramba is ready for the challenge.

During an intimate press conference held at the Lexus Manila Gallery in Taguig, Vivian shared her story and why she decided to enter pageantry.

"I entered pageantry kasi gusto ko ipakita na ang tagumpay ay hindi lamang sa negosyo, ito ay nagbibigay inspirasyon sa ating kapwa lalo na sa mga kababaihan," Vivian said.

(I entered pageantry to show that success isn’t limited to the business world — it can also inspire our communities, especially other women.)

Reflecting on her childhood, Vivian shared that she only took part in high school intramurals and never imagined she would one day step onto a real pageant stage.

"Before kinukuha na ako as muse, like varsity muse mga ganun pero I never expected na makakasali ako sa Mrs. Universe. Actually medyo nasurprise nga ako na kinukuha ako to participate on this pageant," she said.

(Before this, I was chosen as a muse for school events, like for the varsity team, but I never imagined I’d one day be part of something like Mrs. Universe. Honestly, I was a bit surprised when I was invited to join the pageant.

According to Vivian, it was an unforgettable experience for her to be able to walk on stage and win the crown.

"Kasi kung ano yung hindi ko naranasan dati kung kailan nagka-edad ako tsaka ako nakaranas ng ganitong pangyayari sa buhay ko," she added.

(Because it was something I had never gone through before — and to experience it later in life made it even more meaningful)

As the newly crowned Mrs. Universe PH 2025, Vivian also received a luxurious Lexus vehicle from her husband, Bernie Caramba. The couple's friends and family were present during the official turnover of the car.

The Lexus LM highlighted during the ceremony is regarded as the pinnacle of luxury mobility. Its spacious design, advanced innovations, and unmatched comfort make it the ultimate choice for those who value prestige and elegance in every journey.

Surrounded by dear friends, Vivian Caramba marked the handover in an atmosphere filled with celebration and camaraderie.

Vivian is now preparing for the upcoming 48th Edition of Mrs. Universe 2025, which will be happening on Oct. 08 in Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City

The perfect band-aid: 'Walang Aray'

 

By Philip Cu Unjieng

Published Sep 8, 2025 01:45 pm   

With a run at the PETA-PHINMA Theater that lasts until Oct. 12, you have no excuse for not catching this wonderful third iteration of "Walang Aray!"

Jun Reyes, founder of Indie Go Media and legendary commercial director, first commissioned playwright Rody Vera to modify and make ‘hip’ the original classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, which was written by Jun’s great-grandfather, Severino Reyes. Conceptualized as a screenplay in 2007, PETA suggested adapting it for the stage in 2018, with the addition of original music by Vince Lim. Directed by Ian Segarra, Walang Aray returns after a highly acclaimed 2023 run, with tweaks here and there, from casting choices to additional topical lines, that make this a fresh and vibrant viewing experience.

I have enjoyed Into the Woods, am ready to watch The Bodyguard, but as a Filipino, you really owe it to yourself to make Walang Aray your must-watch. And I’m saying this in the context of being Filipino, and not just because you’re a Filipino theater fan. It’s Philippine history, it’s issues of the present day, it’s side-splitting comedy, it’s brilliant music, it’s teleserye country, it’s constant breaking of the 4th wall, and pithy satire - all couched under the guise of an updating of the zarzuela genre. There’s genuine alchemy in how Vera’s book is merged with Lim’s songs and sifted through Segarra’s deft directing, conjuring up these magical two and a half hours of sheer theatrical havoc and fun!

Ice Seguerra taking his bow.

With most of the action set in a late 19th-century Manila theater where the zarzuelas would have been staged, our main protagonists are the singing star Julia and the man who is courting her, Tenyong. Then there’s Julia’s mother, Juana - the stage mother from Hell; and there are Monica and Lucas, the help of Julia and Tenyong. Other main characters include the rich theater benefactor Tadeo, with his shifty son, Miguel; and the shadowy Padre Alfaro, a villainous Friar. The different locations have connections to the impending Revolution, and are where the Katipuneros would congregate.

So, yes, if you want to call this our Hamilton, I’m not going to argue with you as long as it gets people to rush and get their tickets. Besides, it’s so much funnier than Hamilton, and there are actually more memorable songs. Lim successfully explores pop, the blues, rap, and ballads in the course of this musical. And you’ll love how, in true PETA fashion, there are no ‘sacred cows’ in the book's attack - jibes at the Church and Governor are expected. Still, Vera also pokes fun at his own heroes and their foibles, as well as questioning the Katipuneros and their motivation and resolve. Wonderful to see everyone being satirized.

Jolina Magdangal as Juana.

On the night I watched, the performers were a shout-out to inclusivity and trans-presence. Lance Reblando took on the role of Julia, while Ice Seguerra was Lucas. Jolina Magdangal portrayed Juana, Gio Gahol was Tenyong; and with Roi Galilong as Padre Alfaro and Bene Manaois as Miguel, there were more precious comedic moments than there are stars in heaven.

I watched with some friends from the French Embassy, and thanks to the subtitles flashed on two discreet screens, they could follow the action and storyline. It was their first experience of Filipino musical comedy, and they loved the energy, the singing, the breaking of the 4th wall, and the political overtones. They weren’t getting all the jokes, conscious that others were laughing around them when throw away lines referring to sabungeros and flood control were uttered; but they were all smiles when we left the theater.

To be critical, the second half doesn’t work as well as the first half, and there is the classic quandary of a somewhat abrupt resolution to bring things to a close - but these are very minor qualms. By and large, this is a theater experience that we should all enjoy and spread the word about. Original Filipino material, a musical that works, and satire that succeeds - it’s guaranteed fun, and given the current state of the world, we deserve the break.

10 situations where silence is the best choice

 10 situations where silence is the best choice

1)There are moments in life when silence becomes the wisest response. Staying silent is often the best choice when you don’t know the full story, as speaking without full understanding may lead to wrong assumptions.✨

2) When you're overwhelmed by emotions or unable to control them, silence helps prevent regret.

3) In the heat of anger, silence guards against saying things that could cause harm.

4) If your words have the power to damage a meaningful friendship or relationship, it’s wiser to stay silent.

5) Similarly, when you're unsure about a topic or lack the necessary knowledge, it’s better to listen than to speak.

6) When someone opens up about their struggles and vulnerabilities, silence shows respect and compassion.

7) If you find yourself unable to speak without yelling, taking a step back in silence allows you to regain control.

8) Sometimes, silence can preserve relationships that matter deeply.

9) Speaking only to boost your ego or seek validation adds no value, and in such times, staying quiet is more powerful.

10) Most importantly, if your words could betray someone’s trust, silence becomes a form of loyalty.✨

Gasoline, diesel prices hit record net increases as fuel hikes continue

 

Dominique Nicole Flores - Philstar.com

September 8, 2025 | 10:50am

MANILA, Philippines — Motorists should brace for another hefty pump price hike on Tuesday, September 9, with gasoline rising for the fourth week in a row, and diesel and kerosene on their third consecutive increase.

Gasoline prices are expected to rise by P1 per liter this week, alongside hikes of P1.40 for diesel and P0.70 for kerosene, according to oil firms.

Shell Philippines, Seaoil and CleanFuel announced the upward price adjustment in separate advisories on Monday, September 8. 

Industry experts and the Department of Energy's Oil Industry Management Bureau (DOE-OIMB) attributed the surge in fuel prices to sanctions imposed by the United States cutting into Iran’s oil revenue stream, compounded by falling Russian supplies amid heightened conflict with Ukraine.

As September began, pump prices increased by P0.70 per liter for gasoline, P1 for diesel and P0.70 for kerosene. The DOE said the earlier hikes at the end of August were also driven by failed US attempts to broker a ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine.

With this week’s hike, gasoline and diesel have reached record year-to-date net increases of P13.80 and P14.85 per liter, respectively. Kerosene has risen by a net P3.45 per liter so far this year.

According to DOE’s monitoring, prevailing retail prices of petroleum products in Metro Manila from September 2 to 8 were:

Gasoline (RON97/100) - P65.16

Gasoline (RON95) - P58.40

Gasoline (RON91) - P55.50

Diesel - P54.80

Diesel Plus - P56.30

Kerosene - P73.50

Fuel prices still vary across gas stations. While the figures cited reflect common prevailing retail rates, some stations charge higher or lower, with gasoline reaching as much as P76 per liter and diesel P70.30 per liter.

A 'from clasico to cuvee' evening

By Philip Cu Unjieng

Published Sep 5, 2025 10:55 pm   

A grand wine masterclass with Vega Sicilia and Macan wines was the fetching promise offered up by The Cellar at the Grand Hyatt. Ironically found on the second level of the BGC hotel, the watering hole is known for its solid and inviting interiors, and the Mediterranean-inspired menu, with a slant toward Spanish and French cuisine.

Cesar Roman and Ignacio de Mora

On the evening of the From Clasico to Cuvee launch, collaborator Txanton had put together a toast to Spain, with a guided masterclass of the heritage, nuance and bold expression of the vineyards of Macan and Vega Sicilia. Mr. Ignacio Calvo de Mora, the general manager of Macan, and Mr. Cesar Roman, regional manager for Tempos Vega Sicilia, were on hand to conduct the masterclass, and regale us with stories on the provenance of the two powerhouse wine brands.

The Jamon Iberico.

The special launch that had special guests of the hotel, and representatives from media, highlighted four of the estate’s wines: the Macán Clásico 2021, the Macán 2020, the Macán 2018, and the Macán 2014. The wines and the pairing of Messrs. de Mora and Roman represented the visionary partnership between Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild and Vega Sicilia.

Besay Gonzalez of Txanton and Mark Hagan of the Grand Hyatt welcoming the guests

To complement the heady wine selection, we had live carving of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota by Txanton’s master carver, plus canapés from Diorella Ong, the Cellar’s chef de cuisine. Grand Hyatt’s F&B director Mark Hagan was our congenial host and kicked off the evening, before attending to the other major events happening at the hotel that evening, which included a Metrobank anniversary with more than 2,000 attendees.

The Jamon Croquettas and Cesar Salad

The pinxtos that accompanied our wine tasting truly enhanced our taste buds, adding to our appreciation of the estate’s products. First up were the Jamon Iberico croquettes topped with tomato chutney, and a wedge of Cesar salad, baby gem lettuce with idiazabal cheese, egg yolk confit and Jamon crumbs. I especially liked the tomato chutney garnishing on the croquette and how it rebooted our expectations of what a Jamon croquette would taste like.

Clockwise from top left, Boquerones, rib-eye, goat cheese, and pork belly

The next set of pinxtos was the quartet of the goat cheese with figs compote, the boquerones of marinated anchovies in vinegar with roasted piquillo pepper and olive oil, the pork belly with romesco sauce, pickled onion and chili, and the grass-fed rib-eye with chopped mushrooms and custard yolk. The goat cheese with figs, which I’m always partial to, would be my favorite among the four.

A main course of chicken and chorizo paella, accompanied by peppers, saffron, paprika and lemon, followed. Bringing the night to a close was the burnt Basque cheesecake with raspberry compote. You’d know what these dishes look like, so I did not bother with photos. I commend the generous serving of raspberry on the cheesecake, and how it added to our enjoyment.

Technically, I’m allergic to alcohol, so I could only sip the wines. But in terms of bouquet and flavor, I would recommend you join this masterclass while it’s still being offered, if only for the Macán 2014. The deep garnet color, the aromas of dark cherry, tobacco leaf, earthy spice and herbs are quite distinct, and make your head swim in a good way.

Had a wonderful evening, met some great new people, and I thank Francine Arias, director of marketing communications of the Grand Hyatt, for the invitation.