Taylor Swift really made a surprise appearance at the 2022 VMAs, broke the internet, again, and went home. Icon behavior.

Related: Life Lessons We’re Taking From Taylor Swift’s NYU Commencement Speech

Among all the awards shows out there, the MTV VMAs has always been known in the zeitgeist for its iconic, wild, and unexpected moments. While the show’s quality in recent years has been influx, we do get our occasional pop culture moment that gets the internet talking. And the 2022 VMAs was no exception with Lizzo not hesitating to call out her haters (and referencing the Nicki Minaj and Miley Cyrus VMA feud), BLACKPINK’s Lisa making history as the first K-pop soloist to win a VMA, and Nicki Minaj’s Video Vanguard performance being some of the standout moments. But undoubtedly, the one star who truly stole the night was Taylor Swift. And note, she didn’t even perform, but that’s what happens when you are the music industry. Here are just some of the reasons why she was the main character of the 2022 VMAs.

SURPRISE APPEARANCE

@taylorswift

Team All Too Well bringing the emotional pain to the VMAs… ?

♬ Pink Venom – BLACKPINK

Taylor Swift wasn’t slated to perform at the show. While she was nominated, her presence wasn’t a guarantee, because up until that point, she only made three public appearances. But lo and behold, Ms. Swift did show up and she made sure to show up and out. Taylor wore a stunning backless crystal-lined Oscar de la Renta dress and was giving that diamonds in the tub scene in the Look What You Made Me Do music video. Her Reputation-esque look is arguably one of her best award show fits yet and her arrival on the black carpet caused mass shocks both at the venue and on social media.  

TAYLOR SWIFT IS A BLINK

pic.twitter.com/ZwT94AVXUT

— v (@ViralMaterials) August 29, 2022

Over the years, Taylor has built a reputation of enjoying herself whenever she attends music award shows. She’s a woman who knows how to have fun and enjoy the night. And true to that, she was having the time of her life at the VMAs. As seen on fan cams during the show, Taylor was spotted jamming out to many of the night’s performances. With drink in hand, she was having the time of her life during BLACKPINK’s performance. Not only did she know many of the words to Pink Venom, she also did some of the choreography. Taylor Swift BLINK confirmed. Other performances where she was spotted living her concert fantasy include Nicki Minaj, Lizzo, and J Balvin.

HISTORIC VMA WINS

?| @TaylorSwift13 becomes the FIRST ARTIST to win Video of the Year 3 times! pic.twitter.com/SQN8oZwoTb

— The Swift Society (@TheSwiftSociety) August 29, 2022

Taylor Swift is probably making room right now in her already long awards closet considering she left the venue with a bucket of Moon Persons. At the end of the night, Taylor took home three awards, Best longform video, Best direction, and the top prize of the night, Video of the year, all for All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version). With her Video of the year win, Taylor Swift became the first ever artist in history to win the top prize three times. To think, 13 years ago, Taylor made her VMAs debut where Kanye West infamously interrupted her speech yet here she is now continuing to bag these Ws.

TAYLOR’S 10^th ALBUM INCOMING

Midnights, the stories of 13 sleepless nights scattered throughout my life, will be out October 21. Meet me at midnight.

Pre-order now: https://t.co/jjqUNkphuG pic.twitter.com/Fh96zK8vro

— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) August 29, 2022

Ah, the announcement that shook the internet. During her acceptance speech for Video of the year, she shared that her fans have been very generous with supporting her and that it only felt right to do the same. So, she announced that her new album, Midnights, was dropping on October 21. Later that day, she revealed that Midnights will be a collection of 13 songs she wrote during her sleepless nights throughout her life. “This is a collection of music written in the middle of the night, a journey though terrors and sweet dreams,” said Taylor. “The floors we pace and the demons we face. For all of us who have tossed and turned and decided to keep the lanterns lit and go searching – hoping that just maybe, when the clock strikes twelve …we’ll meet ourselves.”

And just like that, Taylor Swift stole the whole night. The fact that she attended the after party in a blue mini romper and faux-fur coat like she just didn’t break the internet with her 10^th studio album announcement makes it more iconic. Based on what Taylor has said, the album looks to be one of her most depressing, somber, and intimate yet, we already love it. And that album cover with Taylor holding the lighter, CO2 queen. With Midnights now set to come, those persistent rumors of Taylor announcing a world tour for 2023 feel just a little bit more real now. And by the way, October 21 so happens to be Kim Kardashian’s birthday, just saying.

So, in conclusion:

pic.twitter.com/fF9FvlU3Z0

— irene anna (@enerianna) August 28, 2022

Continue Reading: 7 Must-See Performances From The 2021 MTV VMAs

From the words of the wise philosopher, Demi Lovato: ”What’s wrong with being confident?”

While the “dalagang Pilipina” trope will forever be rooted in a country as conservative as ours, it’s refreshing to see women who go after what they want. It’s such an empowering move knowing that you feel in charge of your life, especially when it comes to deciding who you want to end up with. Never mind the old-age comments like: “ka-babae mong tao,” because honestly, we’d rather have things go our way than be cornered by someone who gives us the ick. We get it, following tradition’s cool and all, not until it hinders you from true happiness.

Just take for example these celebrities who didn’t shy away from manifesting and sliding into the DMs of their crushes. The confidence, the sassiness, we stan these daring female stars who made the move. Make no mistake cause these ladies are no damsels in distress. No fairy godmothers, and no waiting for their prince charming to come. The rest as they say is history—or HERstory rather.

READ MORE: We Asked People Why They Send Thirst Traps and the Answers Are Powerful

BELLA POARCH

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bella Poarch (@bellapoarch)

For a shy girl like Bella Poarch, we were surprised to see her make TikToks about her ultimate crush, Joshua Garcia. TBH, who doesn’t? They’ve been leaving comments on each other’s social media accounts and Bella even admitted in a past interview that she indeed likes him after Joshua revealed that they’ve been messaging a lot and even planned on meeting up. You go, girl!

SOLENN HEUSSAFF

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solenn Heussaff (@solenn)

Solenn Heussaff and her relationship with husband Nico Bolzico is peak goals. But did you know that it was actually Solenn who made the first move? Aside from their first interaction where a mutual friend placed her hands on Nico’s abs, it was on their sixth time meeting where she asked for his number. “That simple power move was my ticket to a happy married life,” Solenn says on their web series.

GABBI GARCIA

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gabbi Garcia ♡ (@gabbi)

Who would’ve thought that Gabbi Garcia’s simple tweet about crushing on leading man Khalil Ramos would unknowingly pave the way for these two to meet? But of course, it wasn’t until they were introduced to each other by common friend Kathryn Bernardo that would finally seal the deal. Khalil even reacted to Gabbi’s old tweet last year and it’s adorable.

Omg @gabbi u love me na 2013 pa?!!? ? https://t.co/YQgoV9mOx0

— Khalil Ramos (@TheKhalilRamos) April 8, 2021

MAINE MENDOZA

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maine Mendoza (@mainedcm)

Remember Maine Mendoza’s viral “Arjo cutie” tweet? Well, the universe truly found a way to bring these two together, because they are now engaged! Maine really manifested that.

VANESSA HUDGENS

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ?Vanessa Hudgens? (@vanessahudgens)

You can’t deny how Vanessa Hudgens and her new boyfriend Cole Tucker look so madly in love. But did you know that it was actually her who made the first move? She slid into his DMs after meeting in an online meditation class. “If I want something or someone, I’m going after them,” Vanessa says in an interview.

CONTINUE READING: 9 Stars Who Remind Us That Taking A Mental Break Is More Than Okay

On its maiden voyage, Vogue Philippines makes a strong statement of Filipino pride and identity. The intention is clear: They want you to pick up a magazine and keep on reading.

At some point over the last few years, the general consciousness has declared the long cared for and romanced medium of print dead. Sure, some heritage titles continue to lord of the business of fashion and storytelling, as well as irreverent and niche brands serving as a steady pulse in the severely challenged media and publishing industry. But for the most part, the consumption of content for multiple generations have shifted almost completely digital, which has only been exacerbated amid the pandemic. “I don’t want to turn a blind eye and say print is not dead. It has suffered and that’s the reality,” explains Suki Salvador, President of Mega Global Licensing, the company that houses NYLON Manila and most recently, Vogue Philippines. “We did see its sunset, and that is something we are aware of. But I feel like just like fashion, mediums and platforms are cyclical.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vogue Philippines (@voguephilippines)

With shorter attention spans and an numbing source of information, and conversely, disinformation, as well as of an overwhelming saturation of visuals, there is a lot to contend with in the stream of consciousness of the world today. And this is a challenge that Vogue Philippines is raring and ready to take on as it makes as splash with its maiden issue in September 2022. “We feel that there is a new generation of readers, people that like to touch books because there’s so much garbage online,” asserts Salvador. “We feel that they are the ones we will start to talk and hopefully, they will start to pick up a magazine instead of an iPad.”

This is a bold claim, of course, but that is what MGLI, led by CEO and Chairman of AGC Power Holdings Corp. Archie Carrasco, Publisher Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, and Suki Salvador,  and Vogue Philippines, with Editor-in-Chief  Bea Valdes at the helm, are standing by. The proof? Why, the introduction of Vogue Philippines to the  country and the rest of the world, of course.

The New Frontier

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vogue Philippines (@voguephilippines)

“There is very little we need to do for someone young to pick up a magazine. In general, if you have a strong product, a strong story, it will be read…without even trying. I think that’s what the Vogue brand has been doing for the last 130 years. It’s very curated, it’s very edited, and somehow there’s always magic to what Vogue, what we put out,” details Suki Salvador ahead of the launch. “And I think this will continue for Vogue Philippines and future generations, because the values we have at Vogue, it’s always keeping in mind the future generations whether that’s sustainability, or making the pages breathe, so it’s easily digestible, or a 10 second video, so we don’t take up too much of an 18 year old person’s time. It is all of these things we’ve thought about to make sure that he, she, they or them are on board what we have to say.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vogue Philippines (@voguephilippines)

Echoing this statement, Bea Valdes says, “If you bring out something that’s exciting and relevant to the younger digital natives, and that will get them hooked. I think that’s why as much as possible, we speak to lots of different audiences. But again, what It offers, it’s a tangible tactile experience. I think leafing through the magazines and just having that always there in your room as reference as we did. I think everybody here had that exposure to print, and so we have that great attachment and love for it. And I think that’s the sort of experiences we want to bring back to this generation that is not here.”

More than just the nostalgia or for some, a stubborn insistence on tradition, Vogue Philippines intends to usher in a new generation of readers into the discipline and wonder of experienced storytelling and wonder making. ”It’s a really prime and exciting time to do, because they haven’t had that sort of connection with something that they can read and sort of refer back to and service information,” continues Bea Valdes. ”I think a lot of us who are in this industry, it was through that magic portal of pages as well, that sort of bring us here, the writers the images, and that’s what we want to as Suki said, we introduce in this manner that cyclical, so in a way it’s quite a fresh idea.”

In Vogue, The Filipino Way

This proposition is not one without responsibility. In fact, there is a lot heaved on their shoulders, one that the Vogue Philippines team courses through generations with its values of optimism, bayanihan, and malasakit.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vogue Philippines (@voguephilippines)

”I think one of the things that we were really crafting it was thinking about, again, the different audiences that we have. So, I think the stories that we were trying to put together for the whole magazine have been relevant to different age groups and different segments of society as well,” explains Bea Valdes. ”So we try as much as we want to have a really specific voice. It has to be things that are interesting, cross generational. I have a 15-year-old who I also sort of ask her what is on her radar, and at the same time, as research, sort of as research I ask my mother as well. So, there are certain points that everybody’s on board with and I find that fascinating. Those are the sort of like non-scientific research that I do, because again, when you tell human stories that are either rooted in emotion, those things are ageless. Again, they’re just different ways that we tell them to different people’s lives. So I think those are the sorts of things that we really want to focus on, as well as with Vogue mandates always been about the next unfolding moment. So we also have to be as current as possible. And again, everything that’s on the crest of a new wave is interesting for everybody.”

Needless to say, Vogue Philippines is made for everybody.

The Legacy Continues

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vogue Philippines (@voguephilippines)

As lofty as the heritage and legacy of the Vogue is, the 28th international franchise of the brand aims to carve out its own unique identity primed for both the local and the global audience. ”It’s not so much of how we’ll come into the Philippine consciousness. I really see how the Philippines will come into the Vogue world’s consciousness in that way. That’s why I feel very united with all of the other titles here, because I think we’re on the same path—we serve the Filipino people and to bring our stories to a global audience. So I think it has this reciprocal relationship between what we can tell our local audience and what we can tell our global audience. I think it is the same philosophy and vision. We want to bring out the things that are meaningful to us,” relates Valdes. ”And again, showcase even beyond just the Philippine fashion identity. So much of it is about our identity, our warmth, our resilience, what values we have, what values we share with the world. So I think, again, if we look at it that way, as a whole ecosystem, between local and international, I think it will give everybody the sense that we’re all going in the same direction.”

This is just the beginning for Vogue Philippines, and as it embarks on its maiden journey, they are especially committed to the conversations, values, and creativity that colors the our most beautiful archipelago. As realized in its cover (with Chloe Magno, a Filipino-American model whose roots are from Davao), a vision of the nation as brought to life by fashion and passion makes it clear that in this beginning, the future is very bright. And as Global Director of Content Planning & Editorial Director, Licensing for Vogue said, and just like they found their pearl in the Philippines.

Maligayang pagdating sa mga isla, Vogue Philippines. Mabuhay!

Visit vogue.ph and follow @voguephilippines on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and @vogueph on Twitter.

Ben&Ben gets us emotional while IVE serves hard with retro pop in this round-up of new tracks you’ll be pressing play on.

Related: POLL: What’s Your Favorite New Song Of July 2022?

This week marks the last full week of August 2022 and the music industry is treating it as such. The past week alone saw major events like the SM Town concert, KCON LA, and HITC LA which our very own Ylona Garcia opened for day two. Olivia Rodrigo also fulfilled the prophecy and performed déjà vu and Uptown Girl with none other than Billy Joel. Let’s also not forget all the new music that dropped this week because there’s a lot to get into for a variety of music tastes. Get your playlists ready and check out some of the best new tracks of the week.

THE ONES WE ONCE LOVED – BEN&BEN

Grab the tissues, because Ben&Ben is coming straight to your heart in their new song, The Ones We Once Loved. Serving as their latest international single, the emotional ballad offers unique perspective on forgiveness Written by the band’s very own Paolo Benjamin, the stripped-down soul stirring track is emotionally impactful confessional on love, forgiveness, and breakup, and what it means to move on.

HOLD ME CLOSER – ELTON JOHN AND BRITNEY SPEARS

Its Britney, bitch (and Elton John). After a six year hiatus, Britney Spears has finally made her return to the music industry through her collaboration with Elton John, Hold Me Closer. The track is a remake of Elton’s classic Tiny Dancer and is more of a pop and disco touch to it that’s going to get you moving. Even after all these years, Britney’s classic voice is still there.   

TALK THAT TALK – TWICE

Hot take: Talk that Talk may just be one of TWICE’s best title tracks in years. The global girl group recently dropped their newest mini-album BETWEEN 1&2, which serves as their first Korean comeback of 2022, and really served right out of the gate. Talk that Talk goes for a lighthearted bubblegum pop sound with a music video that meets spies, the Y2k aesthetic, and technology. TWICE handles the Y2K look so well and the song tickles the ears in all the right ways, especially the second half of the chorus.  

SUPERFICIAL ENERGY – DENISE JULIA

Denise Julia went from up-and-coming musician to rising star thanks to the viral success of NVMD. And now, the young artist is back with her follow up single, superficial energy. And with the song, Denise proves that she definitely is no one hit wonder thanks to the tracks smooth R&B production and her sensual vocals.

AFTER LIKE – IVE

IVE goes 3-0 in their comebacks so far with the release of their newest single, After LIKE. Their take on retro pop samples I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor and is a serve from start to finish with its addicting pop aesthetic. The sample works well with what the group was going for. At this point, IVE is pretty much clearing most discussions regarding girl group ROTY.

LERON – ARTHUR MIGUEL AND TRISHA MACAPAGAL

Arthur Miguel and Trisha Macapagal first got us in our feels in Ang Wakas. And the duo are back again for part two to do just that with their newest collab, Leron. Taking it’s name after the classic Filipino song, Leron will once again tug at your heartstrings musically and lyrically.

TINATANGI – ADIE AND CHRSTN

While there is a lot of heartbreak in the world, there should also be moments to let love in your life. And you can do that by listening to Adie and Chrstn’s collab, Tinatangi. The acoustic-driven track sooths the soul with its easy going sound and heartfelt message of being with a significant other. Their voices together are a match made in heaven that amplifies the track to new heights.

YUKON (INTERLUDE) – JOJI

Bestie, wake up! Joji just announced that his new album, SMITHEREENS, is dropping on November 4. And to help make the wait more bearable, the musician also dropped a new song called YUKON (INTERLUDE). It’s definitely more fast paced than Glimpse Of Us, but still just as good.

POP OFF ATE – DRAG RACE PHILIPPINES CAST

If you caught episode three of Drag Race Philippines, then you would have known that the queens truly popped off with one of the best girl group challenges in the show’s entire history. And now, we have the official release of the song. While both teams did great, we’ll give the nod to the Flexbomb Girls who did what needed to be done.

FAR AWAY – MARK TUAN

It’s finally here. After over a year of waiting, Mark Tuan has finally dropped his debut album, the other side. At over 20 and nearly 55 minutes long, there’s a lot to get into as Mark tells a more intimate, emotional, and different side to him with the LP.

LARAWAN – ALLMO$T

ALLMO$T gets sentimental in their slightly laid back new track, Larawan. The song combines elements of rap and band as the group reflect on a former flame and expressing a desire to go back to the good days.

ILY ILY – ALAMAT AND LYCA GAIRANOD

This is a collab and song we weren’t expecting. But the combination works surprisingly well. Alamat and Lyca Gairanod combine their musical talents for ILY ILY, a surprisingly emotional track that goes from ballad to hip-hop then ending in rock all while showcasing their vocals and rap skills.

_WORLD – SEVENTEEN AND ANNE-MARIE

British singer Anne-Marie joins SEVENTEEN on this new version of _WORLD and turns what was already a fun and bright song into one that’s even more inviting.

PHANTOM – RINA SAWAYAMA

As we inch ever so closer to the release of Rina Sawayama’s new album, the musician continues to tease us with new music. And for her fourth single for the album, she gives us Phantom, a rock power ballad that hits all the right notes. Rina belts with pure emotion and rock and roll edge as she sings to us a very heartfelt and personal story.

TURN UP – 1^ST. ONE

It’s comeback season for quite a few P-pop groups in the coming months. And one such group is the pride of P-pop, 1^st.One. In the lead up to their new comeback, the group dropped Turn Up, a catchy dance tune with a positive message of standing up and facing your challenges in life. The song was a full team effort with Ace writing the lyrics, Max doing the lyrics proofing, and the other members co-writing the rap parts.

KALIMUTAN – DIA MATE

Dia mate gives us this atmospheric bop all about knowing your worth. The musician reflects on a past relationship and realizes that it was for the better as she went on to become a better person.

RING – TOMORROW X TOGETHER

Heartbreak transcends every language as seen in TXT’s newest Japanese single, Ring. The quintet pour their hearts out in the track as they sing about going through a breakup and still having feelings for that person.

ENOUGH – OF MERCURY

OPM band of Mercury powers through a kind of love that knows no bounds in their new single ENOUGH. Moving away from their more dance driven tracks and into rock territory, the song deals with acknowledging how relationships grow stronger over time when creating compromises and going through those challenges as partners and as individuals.

TRIPIN” – KRYSTAL BRIMNER

Teen star Krystal Brimner reached a major milestone recently with the release of her self-titled debut EP and before you dismiss it as just another celebrity making music, know that it’s five songs of competent music making from a young star who definitely can make it big in the industry.

Continue Reading: The Round-Up: Complete Your Playlist Sessions With These New Music Drops

Philippine musical theater is more than ready to welcome back audiences with these upcoming shows.

Related: And We’re Live: Concerts Coming To The Philippines This 2022 And Beyond (So Far)

As the world continues to bring back some semblance of normalcy, many of the activities we used to enjoy pre-pandemic are making a return, and that includes musical theater. Like many in the entertainment industry, the performing arts was not spared by the pandemic, causing the local industry to halt entirely. But this 2022, their encore is set with the slew of local productions ready to hit the stage in the coming months. And with the recent opening of the Samsung Performing Arts Theater and the completed rebuilding of the Aliw Theater, we’re more than ready to catch a good musical. Here are some productions headed your way that you should check out.

MULA SA BUWAN

After four years, Mula Sa Buwan is finally making it’s return. Based on Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, the production is the Filipino adaptation by Francisco Rodrigo that follows three young Filipinos ,Cyrano, Roxane, and Christian, during the 1940s in Manila as they deal with the challenges of life and love. Gab Pangilinan, Myke Salomon, and Markki Stroem are set to play the three main leads this go-around with Pat Valera serving as director and Myke Salomon coming on board as musical director. Mula Sa Buwan first run at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater ran from August 26 to September 18 for a limited 13 show run. There will be an additional run this December 2-11 at the same venue for two weekends only. You can get your tickets at Ticketworld.

ANAK DATU

From National Artist of the Philippines for Sculpture Abdulmari Asia Imao original story comes this Tausug musical adaptation set in Mindanao. Imao originally wrote this in 1968, and centers on the political turmoil in the south, the impending violence it causes, and finding peace in the chaos. Tanghalang Pilipino is the production team behind the musical with Rody Vera serving as director. Anak Datu begins it’s run at the newly opened Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez on September 16 and ends on October 9. Fun fact, this will actually be the first play to be staged at the new theater. You can also avail of Tanghalang Pilipino’s Season 36 Season Pass if you want to catch all their upcoming plays this season.

JOSEPH, THE DREAMER

Following a successful run in July, the hit musical starring Sam Concepcion and Gary Valenciano is returning to the stage again for a limited time run from November 12 – 27 at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in BGC. You can get your tickets via Ticketworld.

BATANG RIZAL

As further proof that Philippine musical theater is on the come-up once more, one of the country’s premier theater companies is set to hold their first in-person musical since the pandemic began. The Philippine Educational Theater Association, more commonly known as PETA, is returning to the live stage with a restaging of Christine Bellen’s Batang Rizal, a musical about the life of a young Jose Rizal as told through the lens of a kid. The show will be held in two stages: on October 14 to 16, it will be streamed via KTX. And from November 25 to December 2, the musical will be held at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City. Expect this production to have new animations, set, and cast.

ANG HULING EL BIMBO

Ang Huling El Bimbo is arguably one of the most talked about Filipino musicals in recent years. The jukebox musical follows a group of men who meet up for a college reunion as they look back on their young lives. Every song in the production are Erasherheads songs with Ely Buendia even participating in one show. It’s 2018 run was a hot ticket for many with shows consistently selling out. And if ever you missed your chance of catching this musical or would like to experience it again in all its live glory, you’re in luck.

Just recently, the show announced a new run in 2023. An open audition for many of the musical’s key roles recently passed its deadline, so you can bet the producers are in the midst of forming a new cast and getting the show back on.

BONUS: LOCAL PRDUCTIONS OF INTERNATIONAL MUSICALS

WE WILL ROCK YOU

Queen is coming to Manila, or at least their music is. Serving as the country’s first international musical tour since the pandemic began, We Will Rock You is set in a post-apocalyptic world where rock and roll doesn’t exist. Two revolutionaries then set off on a journey to save rock and roll and bring joy and the love of rock through Queen’s songs. Every song in We Will Rock You come from Queen’s iconic discography with the play itself featuring 24 of their biggest hits. The play will be staged at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater from October 27 to November 20. If you’re looking for a night of all things Queen and pure rock and roll, you can get your tickets to the show via Ticketworld.  

CAROUSEL

Originally slated to be held on May 2020, Repertory Philippines’ take on the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical love story was cancelled due to the global pandemic. But this 2022, Repertory Philippines is ready to open their doors once more with their much-awaited live theatrical run of Carousel. TGian Magdangal will play Billy Bigelow while Karylle Tatlonghari will take on his lover, Julie Jordan. The show will run from November 26 to December 18 at the CCP Ignacio Gimenez Black Box Theater with tickets on-sale now.

Continue Reading: POLL: What’s Your Favorite New Song Of July 2022?

From the football field to the editing room, Amanda Fernandez is ready to use her decades of sporting experience to lead The GAME as their Editor-in-Chief.

Related: This Rookie Digital Platform Wants You To Get Your Head In The Game

It is no secret that Filipinos love sports. No matter where you look, you will find some semblance of sporting culture in the country, whether it be in the intense fervor for volleyball games or casual basketball games among neighbors in side alleys. The country is also no stranger to producing world class athletes that have excelled in a variety of sports. From weightlifting, soccer, tennis, esports, pole vaulting, and much more, Filipinos can and have proven to do well in any kind of sport. This passionate love for all things sports is what The GAME is all about.

One Mega Group’s latest aspirational sports lifestyle magazine, The GAME is here to highlight and hero the Philippine sports world and all its diverse colors. With their recent launch, the brand is ready to showcase the many perspectives of Philippine sports. But every team needs a team captain to lead them to victory, and for The GAME, leading the brand is none other than Amanda Fernandez, who was recently appointed as Editor-In-Chief. Bringing her unique perspective and storytelling to The GAME, the athlete and entrepreneur is ready to elevate Philippine sports to the next level.

AN ALL-ROUNDER, ON AND OFF THE PITCH

Like most Filipinos, Amanda Fernadez grew up with sports in her life. When she was 13, Amanda became a football athlete, representing the country in different international games. As she got older, she pivoted her love of the sport through being the owner and manager of football team Sikat FC from 2011-2015. The University of San Diego graduate is also the owner of Sparta Philippines, a training facility meant to help the next generation of athletes and non-athletes see the love of sport.

“Being in this position is but another way for me to give back to sports for what it did for me growing up,” she shares. Given her background in sports, from athlete to owner and everything in between, Fernandez is brining a unique POV to the brand. “Powerful stories is one of the best ways of replaying moments over and over again. Storytelling can make us believe the impossible.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amanda Fernandez (@amandafernandez10)

Under her leadership, The GAME won’t just cover who won and lost, but deep dive into the whole process it all, from the behind-the-scenes movements to giving a face to the athletes. “As a brand and as a platform, The GAME should be able to tell stories that inspire and build value holistically to both the sport itself, as well as players and the community that engage in it,” says the former football athlete. “By highlighting ideas, perceptions, and stories from unique and unbiased angles, we hope to build an honest community that respects all aspects of sports and healthy living.”

READY, SET, GAME

While the Philippines does love its sports, it also just love a select few of them. There are Filipinos who participate in dozens of sports, only a handful get the proper attention with the rest often going under the radar. For Fernandez, she is ready to change that and use the platform to give the whole community the recognition they deserve. “Athletes are but one component of a well-oiled machine that operates to change, inspire, and elevate communities. And we must celebrate all the pieces that come together to make historical moments be remembered one story at a time.”

She adds, “The GAME aims to fill the gaps I believe our sports community craves for in terms of storytelling and I could not be more excited to be part of a team that wants to not only tell stories but show love to every piece that builds on and is responsible for that great moment.”

The GAME is ready to show what sports is truly all about. With miles of stories from different perspectives waiting to be told, The GAME is posed to celebrate the different perspectives of Philippine sports in a new light. And Amanda Fernandez is very much ready to lead her team to do just that. Alongside Founding Publisher James Leonard Cruz, Amanda Fernandez is stepping up to the plate as The GAME’s Editor-in-Chief.

Continue Reading: What It’s Like Competing In Obstacle Course Racing, According To This 23-Year-Old Athlete

Something about James Reid in LA just hits different.

James Reid has been hella busy the past few months. Collaborating with international artists, setting up meetings from one timezone to another, and of course, making new music. But what we didn’t see coming is James changing his hair into a blonde color.

he’s not james reid anymore,he’s james blonde now#JamesReid | James Reid | @tellemjaye pic.twitter.com/EzFCTtmHp3

— james hourly (@hourlyjamesreid) August 25, 2022

In his Instagram stories, he teased his new hairstyle. While we’re used to seeing him with his brown locks, James has been experimenting a lot with his hair for the past few years. He’s worn long hair like 90s Johnny Depp, tried Korean bangs, and tried the man bun. But him as a blonde? We’re here for it.

READ MORE: Go Little Rockstar: What Is James Reid Up To in Hollywood?

This isn’t the first time James Reid went blonde though. Remember that scene in one of his early films, Talk Back and You’re Dead? Yep, that was the first time we’ve got a glimpse of James with his blonde hair. Good times.

James Blonde.. *U* @jamesxreid ???

TBYD Shooting Day Sixteen

Talk Back And You’re Dead Teaser pic.twitter.com/ZQTPzzR94f

— We Love James Reid (@WeLoveJamesReid) August 7, 2014

We can only wonder why he decided to bleach his hair recently. New single? New album? Acting comeback? Whatever it is, we’re happy to see the Careless Music founder creating buzz everywhere he goes.

CONTINUE READING: Remember When Our Favorite Love Teams Got Switched?

The tiger rises once again with an 80s-inspired Japanese aesthetic

Imagine walking at the mall and spotting a cool kid wearing familiar white sneakers with red and blue stripes. Then, you see another, and then one more. You realize it’s also the same shoes you own—the classic Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, an auxillary to a jeans, joggers, and shorts fashion in this day and age. Even Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, has given this pair his royal seal of approval.

As new and as cool as this concept may seem, Onitsuka Tiger have told a long tale and have spoken of cultural prestige even before the sneakers became a popular, modern shoesthetic. This is a testament to the brand’s timelessness, transcending generations.

A concept beyond an arm’s length

Onitsuka Tiger has been known to create sports-inspired head-to-toe fashion in pursuit of ultimate comfort and innovative design, which lie where the eyes cannot see. Bet you didn’t know that the distinctive stripes serve a special function apart from being the sneakers’ iconic trademark. The shoelaces were integrated into the design, thereby improving the shoes’ overall stability and durability.

Talking about form, Onitsuka Tiger’s signature style depicts the brand’s respect to the Japanese heritage and their admiration for refined and contemporary creative designs. With a craftsmanship that heeds to quality and detail, the brand aims to satisfy the hunger of those looking for luxury and an entirely new value system in the new age. 

A trip down the memory lane

On February 25, 2022, Onitsuka Tiger turned up with its Autumn/Winter 2022 Collection at the Milan Fashion Week under the direction of Creative Director Andrea Pompilio. This was the brand’s first physical fashion appearance since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

While the Onitsuka Tiger AW21 Collection previously worked on neon colors, the AW22 Collection played on monochromes, silhouettes, and minute details. The collection is an ode to the Japanese eighties aesthetic of purity and austerity, which refers to the distinctive black clothes with unexpected volumes and layers portraying the underground culture of the time—think kimonos, ninjas, and black leather boots all in one fashion piece, but with a contemporary take. Typical of Japanese fashion style, AW22 expresses an original and genderless collection.

A vintage style on modern streets

Onitsuka Tiger’s latest collection features ultra-oversized T-shirts made of heavy cotton and graphically embroidered overdresses that have a particular flame-and-flower print at the hem. Velour dresses with a Gothic and slightly modern rock star style, and mini dresses with a drawstring waist were also introduced during the show. The apparels were layered with nylon jackets, maxi Bermuda pants, midi-length pleated skirts, and multi-pocketed waistcoats. 

For footwear, AW22 presents the PETAL™ model which is a classic court style shoe with an ankle-height upper, and the ACROMOUNT KNIT™ model that hinted at the black and white design of the collection. The shoes worn in the show were a pair of punkish flat-soled leather shoes and of balky platform-soled sneakers in thin quilted nylon. 

The AW22 Collection will be available in September. Catch the full line of products from head-to-toe at Onitsuka Tiger’s website. For updates, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Aside from his natural talent, charm, and charisma, ENHYPEN’s Heeseung also has another thing going for him, his secret Filipino side.

Related: Just Like You, ENHYPEN Also Listens To OPM As Seen On Their Spotify Playlist

Every member of ENYPEN has something to give. But for Heeseung in particular, the eldest member of the group stands out for the level of passion he brings into his performances. As early as his I-Land days, Heeseung has been dedicated to his work all while channeling whatever energy he needs to serve in that particular performance. It’s clear that he, just like the rest of his members, is a naturally talented performer and all around great guy. But aside from the level of skill and professionalism he brings to the stage, Heeseung also has another ace up his sleeve, his secret Filipino blood.

Not only does ENHYPEN have many Filipino fans, but Heeseung might actually be secretly Filipino. In case you don’t know, there’s a joke among the fandom, especially among Pinoy ENGENES, that the low-key birit king is part Filipino and he’s just hiding it. But honestly, looking at the clues we have, it might just be true. Let’s take a look at some of the moments where Heeseung’s inner Filipino jumped.

PIATTOS IN THE PROMO

In the lead up to the release of MANIFESTO: DAY 1, the group dropped teaser photos to hype us up. But when they released the solo photos for Heeseung, one detail caught the eye of many Filipino fans. Behind him were Piattos potato chips, the crowd favorite Filipino snack. We love they’re promoting local products. Is the inclusion though a clue that they’re coming to Manila for their upcoming world tour? Only time will tell.

HIS TAGALOG IS A LITTLE TOO GOOD

HEESEUNG’S “MAHAL KO KAYO”@ENHYPEN_members #ENHYPEN pic.twitter.com/Aqs95Fv4S1

— kiki (@jungwonhd) May 18, 2021

Filo ENGENEs who taught Heeseung how to speak Tagalog phrases, you’re doing the Lord’s work. Ever since their debut, Heeseung has picked up quite a few Tagalog words such as mahal ko kayo and mahal kita. He even knows what pogi in Tagalog means. (Fun fact: in Korean, pogi means to give up). And whenever he speaks Tagalog, it’s actually quite fluent. We see you Ethan Batumbakal. His surprising fluency in Tagalog has us thinking how he’s going to sound if ever ENHYPEN performs in the country.

MAHAL KO KAYO

@15sjylhs BAKA KABABAYAN NATIN YAN!!! 🇵🇭🤣 #heeseung #enhypen #manifestoinmanila ♬ ParadoXXX Invasion – ENHYPEN

Heeseung Batumbakal wouldn’t go all the way to Manila for a three-day concert without flexing his Tagalog now would he? During an interview with ABS-CBN, the boys were taught some Tagalog phrases and a lesson on saying maganda kayo quickly tuned into Heeseung saying mahal ko kayo like he was ready to do so. You see that smirk? Hee knew exactly what he was doing.

THE ICONIC AWIT LODS

@noebells24 Reply to @ethan_heeseung AWIT LODS THREE TIMES ♡ #enhypen #heeseung ♬ original sound – Noe⁷ ˚* ❀ ? – Noe ?

To quite a few Pinoy fans, Heeseung saying “awit lods” will be a moment etched in ENHYPEN history. In 2021, @noebells24 attended an ENHYPEN fansign and asked Heeseung to say the phrase. Not only did he do so, but it sounded shockingly good. His inner conyo boy came out at that moment and was even the basis for a popular fan edit. We’ll just be patiently waiting for a fan to ask Heeseung to say forda.  

COUNTING NUMBERS IN TAGALOG

heeseung counting in tagalog!! pic.twitter.com/FYOmFWdutH

— heeseung archive (@hourlylhs) May 3, 2021

During ENHYPEN’s first appearance on hello82, the boys were tasked to speak different languages. And low and behold, Heeseung got Tagalog and said number one to ten. Low-key he sounded really good, like it’s not his first time saying those numbers.

TWO JOINTS PARANG MAFIA

heeseung two joints is back! ? pic.twitter.com/hkYAW4yNtH

— ً (@heefIix) July 5, 2022

We don’t know who or where Heeseung learned the two joints pose. But whichever way he learned it, Filo ENGENES stay winning. That’s not Lee Heeseung of ENHYPEN, that’s Ethan Batumbakal from Manila.

Continue Reading: Whoa! Here Are 8 Korean Idols Who You Didn’t Know Were Part Filipino

Whether you’re a global superstar or just a regular person trying to get by, everyone deserves a mental health break.

Related: Mental Health Services You Can Avail Of

In today’s hustle culture, it seems as if how active your life determines your worth in society. You probably have come across those who say that there are too many lazy people in this world. If you don’t keep going at it 24/7, are online all the time, or constantly making your presence known, you’re wasting time or mot working hard enough. But as it has come to be known over the past couple of years, the hustle lifestyle is not for everyone. Being constantly on the move can negatively impact your well-being. And despite what others may say, those down moments require you to take a necessary break to take care of yourself.

The conversation on taking much-needed mental health breaks has even extended to public figures who, despite expected to always be working, have used their platforms to say that it’s ok to not be ok and take that much needed me-time. No matter what status you are in life, you deserve that life pause. Here are some superstars who took a break and showed us that there is nothing to be ashamed of in doing so. In fact, more often than not, it is necessary to recharge and recalibrate, eventually returning better than ever:

SHAWN MENDES

2022 was supposed to be a big year for Shawn Mendes as he was set to embark on his next world tour, the Wonder World Tour. But as the tour began, Shawn realized that he was not in the proper mental state to handle the rigors of touring. After canceling several shows in Europe, the Canadian musician took to social media to share that he was canceling the tour completely.

“I started this tour excited to finally get back to playing live after a long break due to the pandemic, but the reality is I was not at all ready for how difficult touring would be after this time away,” said Shawn in the statement. “After speaking more with my team and working with an incredible group of health professionals, it has become clearer that I need to take the time I’ve never taken personally, to ground myself and come back stronger.”

While it was a tough decision for both Shawn and his fans, he made it known that it was the right thing to do. “…[A]t this time I have to put my health as my first priority. This doesn’t mean I won’t be making new music, and I can’t wait to see you on tour in the future. I know you all have been waiting so long to see these shows, and it breaks my heart to tell you this but I promise I will be back as soon as I’ve taken the right time to heal.”

BTS

When BTS celebrated their 9^th anniversary this 2022, ARMY all over the world were excited to see what plans the K-pop group had in store. And for sure BTS had plans, but one that came as a shock to many. This past June, BTS announced that they were taking a temporary break from their group activities to focus on themselves. “I feel lost. After releasing Butter and Permission To Dance, I started feeling that I don’t know what kind of a band we are anymore. What kind of music do we want to make? What do we want to say? I believe we should have taken this break long ago, but we kept putting it off,” said RM regarding the decision.

The group made it clear though that this time away is a good thing and meant for them to have that personal time and space for themselves. The biggest boy group in the world is here to say that it’s okay to stop and take that much-needed break to have that me-time. In the end, that time away will make you a better person as J-Hope says, “I think we should spend some time apart to learn how to be one again. I hope you don’t see this as a negative thing and see it as a healthy plan.”

TOM HOLLAND

Ever since he took on the role of Peter Parker/Spider-Man in the MCU, Tom Holland went from promising young actor to a global superstar. His films as well as his relatable social media posts endeared him to millions. But it is also social media that Tom felt was draining his life. Just recently, he posted a video on Instagram explaining that he was going to be taking pause from social media.

“I have taken a break from social media for my mental health because I find Instagram and Twitter to be overstimulating, to be overwhelming. I get caught up and I spiral when I read things about me online. And ultimately, it’s very detrimental to my mental health.” Take it from Tom, and others on this list, that while social media can be fun, it can also lead you down a dark spiral that you sometimes just need to step away from.  

SIMONE BILES

It’s safe to say that Simone Biles is one of the most accomplished athletes in human history. So, when she competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the world was watching to see how the history-making gymnast would perform. And she did make global headlines, but not for what she did on the Olympic floor. Instead, she announced that she was not participating in most of her events in Tokyo due to suffering from the twisties and the fact that she wanted to focus on mental health.

“I say put mental health first. Because if you don’t, then you’re not going to enjoy your sport and you’re not going to succeed as much as you want to,” said Simone regarding her decision. “So it’s OK sometimes to even sit out the big competitions to focus on yourself, because it shows how strong of a competitor and person that you really are — rather than just battle through it.”. While she did get a lot of flak for her doing what she did, it was very brave of Simone to do so and arguably the better decision in the long run.

JUSTIN BIEBER

In 2017, Justin Bieber was in the middle of his massively popular Purpose World Tour. But the tour, and his general life at that time, proved to be exhausting. This is why Justin took to social media to share that he was prematurely ending the tour, which meant canceling the last 14 concerts. He wanted fans to know though that his decision came from the fact that he needed the rest for his well-being.

“Me taking this time right now is me saying I want to be SUSTAINABLE…I want my career to be sustainable, but I also want my mind heart and soul to be sustainable. So that I can be the man I want to be, the husband I eventually want to be, and the father I want to be.”. He definitely made the most out of his rest now that he’s back on a new world tour that includes his long-awaited return to Manila this October.

NAOMI OSAKA

In a world where some criticize those who take needed mental health breaks, Naomi Osaka is a reminder that your well-being will always be important. At the 2021 French Open, Naomi made headlines when she announced that she was dropping out of the competition to focus on her mental health. She then took to Instagram to explain that she has been dealing with depression and anxiety since 2018 after becoming a tennis star. While Naomi did get hate for her decision, she stood by her choice.

“I communicated that I wanted to skip press conferences at Roland Garros to exercise self-care and preservation of my mental health. I stand by that. Athletes are humans. Tennis is our privileged profession, and of course there are commitments off the court that coincide,” the young tennis star wrote in an essay for TIME. “Perhaps we should give athletes the right to take a mental break from media scrutiny on a rare occasion without being subject to strict sanctions.”

SELENA GOMEZ

Selena Gomez is no stranger to being open about her struggles with mental health. In particular, she has stated that being on social media has not been good for her well-being. In 2017, she famously went off social media before returning to her profiles over four years later. During an interview with Good Morning America, the actress and musician expressed how that break made her a better person. “It has changed my life completely. I am happier, I am more present, I connect more with people. I understand how powerful the internet is, and in so many ways it’s done the best things for the world. But for me, I get to my news that is actually important I get through people in my life.”

ARIANA GRANDE

Ariana Grande isn’t afraid to keep it real, and that includes taking about her mental health. Over the years, the superstar has been open about how she suffers from anxiety, especially after the bombing at her Manchester concert in 2017. ”I’ve always had anxiety. I’ve never really spoken about it because I thought everyone had it, but when I got home from tour it was the most severe I think it’s ever been,” she told British Vogue. The traumatic moment understandably caused the musician to take a step back from the public spotlight and focus on her mental health, which included seeing a therapist.

Since then, Ariana has used her platform to continue to destigmatize the conversation around mental health. “Here’s to ending the stigma around mental health and normalizing asking for help,” she said, commemorating Mental Health Awareness Month in May last year. “Healing isn’t linear, fun, quick or at all easy but we are here and we’ve got to commit to making this time as healthy, peaceful and beautiful as possible. the work is so hard but we are capable and worth it. sending so much love and strength.”

ELIZABETH OLSEN

Following her debut in Avengers: Age of Ultron, Scarlet Witch has grown to become a fan favorite in the MCU canon. And part of the reason why is thanks to the talents of Elizabeth Olsen who brought the character to life. But the actress is also here to remind you that you don’t need Hex Magic to attend to your mental health, you just need to take a step back. In 2020, she deleted her personal Instagram account and in the years since, she has explained her decision to do so.

In an interview with Glamour UK, the younger Olsen sister said that social media was negatively warping the way she saw the world. “[I thought] Wait, why am I even trying to create a character version of myself and put it out in the world? And the whole thing just made me uncomfortable and it’s not even like I was really paying attention to comments or anything.”. The need to constantly comment on everything that happens in the world on social media put her off pushed her to pressing that delete account button. And if you’re wondering, she has no plans to return to Instagram.

Continue Reading: These Social Media Platforms Are Finally Taking A Stand Against Unrealistic Beauty Standards