From playing side characters to being the heroes of their own stories, Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano are living their best lives.

Related: 9 Times DonBelle’s Low-key Relationship Sent Us On A Kilig Overload

Even if they were years into the industry, Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano’s stories in 2020 were on the cusp of the climax as they soon became, well, you probably know the rest of the story. Only rarely does the local entertainment industry see a phenomenon like DonBelle, and it’s an even more impressive feat given how the two Gen Z superstars broke free from typecasting and last names to chart their path independently. They’re living proof that taking control of your journey can lead to living the best life.

EVERYTHING IS AWESOME 

To a lot of Gen Z fans, Donny and Belle are goals, both as individuals and as a pair. It’s one of the main reasons why the two have earned praise across social media, with a character that’s both admirable and relatable. “I believe what makes me awesome is being true to yourself and finding your independence,” says Belle. As for Donny, it’s his go-getter attitude that he feels has earned him plus points in life. “Just the fact that I never give up. I always strive to be better.”

More so than having a strong sense of determination, Donny isn’t afraid to fail, and more importantly, learn from his mistakes. “How you get back up from something that may be a failure to you and be something you learn from is what I think makes someone awesome.” There’s no secret sauce here, anyone can turn those falls into rebounds. “[H]ow much they turn their failures into something that can be overcome, that’s something you could do with people, or independently.”

In 2019, ABS-CBN paired two strangers who seemingly had little in common. At the time, Belle was known as a former cast member of Goin’ Bulilit and played the kid version of the lead actress in teleseryes, such as a young Bianca Maghirang (played by Bianca Casado) in Princess and I and a young Tiffany Olivar (played by Bianca Manalo) in On the Wings of Love. Donny, meanwhile, was beginning to strike on his own and go beyond his roots as a social media personality with a storied last name. It only took one show for that fire to spark, one that is only getting brighter as the days go on. 

One would think that their newly-minted superstar status has already kicked in for them, but every day is still a pleasant development for the love team. “I think it always surprises us every single time that we’re allowed to create something like, for example, doing a new show or a new movie. It’s always something I think that we won’t get used to na palagi kaming na-ooverwhelm sa nangyayari,” expresses Donny. Adds Belle, “Up to this very day, I still get surprised sa fact na people on Twitter, on Instagram, or their social media platforms that we get to see them personally and feel their support.” 

Donny and Belle’s talents speak for themselves, but it’s their fans and supporters, the passionate Bubblies, who make it all happen as they embarked on the DonBelle journey. It’s a kind of culture-shifting support and passion the two didn’t, don’t, and will continue not to take for granted.

THE POWER OF BEING INDEPENDENTLY AWESOME

Aside from their chemistry and skills on the big and small screen, Donny and Belle are loved by many because they embody the dreams and aspirations of Gen Z. Like many in the new generation, the two grew up and came of age at a time when many people were telling them what to do. Yet, despite all the hurdles that were in their way, Donny and Belle broke through to live the life they want for themselves. As members of #TeamGalaxy, DonBelle’s journey is one that even Samsung wants to celebrate.

Samsung believes in celebrating the best of Gen Z, and in particular, letting us explore the world on our terms with devices serving as the perfect partner in all that. Such is the case with Samsung’s latest editions of the Galaxy A Series line, the Galaxy A34 5G and Galaxy A54 5G. They are fast becoming a go-to tool that fits in the palm of our hands, just ask DonBelle.

“When it comes to choosing my phone, other than the features, I really want it to be aesthetically pleasing. The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and A34 5G are aesthetic, and I love the colors,” gushes Belle. As for Donny, it’s the looks that get him as he had nothing but compliments for the phone. But more than anything, he, along with Belle, finds it an awesome experience getting to work with #TeamGalaxy as they help Gen Z live the main character moment. 

While some try to stereotype the youth, Gen Z is a diverse group of people who are unique in our self-expression yet connected with our shared experiences. Rarely, if ever, do we allow ourselves to be dictated towards a certain path. We ready ourselves to face the world on our terms. It’s an autonomy even stars like Donny and Belle strived for as they got older. “I got more independent when I got my own place when I was in my early 20s, that’s when I started really seeing how it felt like to live without my family,” reveals Donny. 

For some, independence is born out of a specific moment in life, but for others, it’s an ever-continuing journey, the latter of which Belle sees herself on. “I think every day I will discover freedom and independence since I get to learn something new. And I think that’s so freeing that feeling of getting to learn something from what you’re going through or what you’ve been through.” 

LIVING THE MAIN CHARACTER MOMENT 

Wherever your path will lead, the beauty of being independent is that it allows anyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from, to evolve into a better version of themselves. “The good thing about being able to try your path is you just get to experience more stuff in life, and you get to get out of your comfort zone. I think that’s where all the magic happens, the awesomeness,” muses Donny. There’s nothing wrong with seeking help and staying in the company of people you feel safe around, but there’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. And it’s an adventure that can be made all the better with the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G. 

With their look and features, the smartphones complement the vibe of Gen Z. “I feel like the Gen Z is very unique, and I think the phones are very unique as well. The design, the color, is very unique, super sakto sa mga Gen Z,” shares Donny. The smartphones are multi-faceted tools built for the multi-faceted youth who eschew the status quo. As Belle states, “[The smartphones] really have character. You really can tell a person’s personality when you look at their phones, and this one has character.” 

As companions of self-expression, the latest editions of the Samsung Galaxy A Series are packed with features that help anyone be the main character of their story. “I think it’s something I carry every day. And it’s something that I feel is so fun to have. There are so many features you can do, so many quirks to it that I feel you really can’t live without,” sounds Donny. In particular, he gives his flowers to the phone’s impressive Object Eraser feature, which lets you remove an object from the photo and make it as if it was never there in the first place. Case in point, Donny cites how he was able to edit away loose strands of hair on Belle when they took a selfie together. 

Whether it be securing that bag or hanging out with friends, Gen Z is often on the go, much so for Belle Mariano with her busy schedule. Luckily, the Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G’s long-lasting battery (Up to 21 hours of playback!) makes anyone ready at a moment’s notice. It’s a feature that Belle particularly likes. “You guys have no idea the struggle is real. Whenever I have to charge my phone, it’s such a big thing if your battery is long-lasting.”

BEING UNIQUELY AWESOME

With a hit digital series, two movies, a soon-to-be-released teleserye in their resume, and other exciting projects on the horizon, DonBelle is showing little signs of stopping as the Gen Z love team blazes their path, professionally and personally. And you can bet the two will have each other’s backs every step of the way. “I told [Donny] this from the very start that I want to be someone in his life that won’t hinder him from growing, and I feel like in that way, I get to support him,” shares Belle. 

While Belle has many supporters, she can always count on Donny to be her number-one cheerleader. As he declares, “I’m just glad seeing her achieve things that were only a dream before and be a part of it somehow. I’m always gonna be there every step of the way to support her. At the end of the day, we want each other to grow as well and achieve bigger things.”

Gone are the days when making yourself smaller and fitting into the expectations of others is what will get you far in life. Gen Z holds boundless potential as we own our independence and embrace what makes us uniquely awesome. And, as the generation’s icons of awesome independence, Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, along with Samsung, are helping empower us to find our freedom and celebrate our individuality. 

If Donny and Belle can do it, so can you. “I think it’s just as simple as keep believing in yourself,” confidently proclaims Donny on how Gen Z can amplify their awesomeness. “Always know that there will be times you fall, but it’s really about how you rise above it. What you’re focusing upon should be positive things in life, those who love and are there for you, and who will motivate you to strive for your dreams.” 

More than a look, it’s all about manifesting feeling awesome for Belle. “Always see yourself as awesome because people around you are like mirrors, mirrors of who you are. So, if you see yourself as awesome, all the people will reflect that. Despite how little or how much you overthink who you are, you’re awesome in every single way.” 

GRAB YOUR COPY OF NYLON MANILA’S SPECIAL INDEPENDENCE DAY FANZINE FEATURING DONBELLE BY HEADING TO SHOP.NYLONMANILA.COM

Creative Direction KENNETH DIMAANO

Photography DOOKIE DUCAY

Sittings Editor RAF BAUTISTA

Brand Associate ELYSE ILAGAN

Styling ADRIANNE CONCEPCION (Belle) and JOHN LOZANO (Donny)

Makeup JAKE GALVEZ (Belle)

Hair JERRY BUAN JAVIER (Belle)

Grooming JAM PARENO (Donny)

Nails by NAILS BY NICA

Videography JR RAMIREZ

Video editing ANDREY DULALIA

Production Design PRISCILLA ZIALCITA

Shoot Coordinator MIKA TAFALLA

Shot on Location at SECRET STUDIOS

Continue Reading: In A World Of Possibilities, Belle Mariano Wants You To Ditch Fear And Take A Leap

This Independence Day, BGYO, BINI, Nica del Rosario, and more share how their work and efforts are helping change the country for the better.

Related: The Nation’s Hope: TAYO Awards Foundation Hails Youth Orgs That Ignited Resonant Change

June is a month filled with celebrations of all kinds, from personal, historical, societal, and more. This June 12 will be a special day as the country commemorates the Filipinos of then who officially recognized their independence from Spain, setting up the Philippines we all know today. 125 years since the Philippines declared its independence, generations of Filipinos have gone on to build lives for themselves as they pursued their passions and ideals. Such is the case with Gen Z as we strive to make a name for ourselves in a period of seemingly limitless potential.

If the past couple of years has shown us anything, it’s that Gen Z isn’t the lazy, do-nothing generation that some try to stereotype us as. We aren’t afraid to speak up and advocate for the causes we believe in. After all, it is our future that’s at stake. Gen Z is not just a term or age group, but a generation ready to step up and make a difference. This Philippine Independence Day, we celebrate the bravery of the founding Filipinos and the dreams and potential of the new generation. As young stakeholders in this country, we all have a part in building the future we hope for.

This is why we asked local personalities to share their aspirations for the country. While they come from a diverse set of fields, from music, drag, social media, and more, these stars are changemakers in their own right and remind us of our power and that change can come, even through our ways.

BINI

With their name coming from the word binibini, BINI aspires to be the epitome of what a modern Filipina is, exhibiting beauty and grace with a sense of independence befitting the new generation. With the group recently celebrating their second anniversary, BINI has proven that they are more than just a girl group who makes music, but are also putting their words into action.

While BINI is considered one of the top P-pop girl groups in the country and continues to gain fans by the day, their road to where they are was filled with its share of potholes. “Madami ang hindi naniniwala sa BINI. Madami ang duda sa aming kakayahan. Mga indibidwal na hinihila kami pababa,” they share. The girls experienced criticism and judgment, but that didn’t stop them and, in fact, used it as fuel to give them the strength to get better at what they do.

People can say what they want about BINI, but these eight young women are making it known that they aren’t wavering from their promise to be a good influence on the youth. “Panata namin na atin gamitin ang aming plataporma para magbigay kasiyahan, kaalaman, at kabutihan, lalo na sa mga kabataan tulad namin.” And, more importantly, BINI wants you to know that following your dreams isn’t a competition, but your journey to take. “Kung hindi dumating and iyong inaasam, tandaan na hindi paligsahan ang pagtupad sa pangarap. Ang katuparan ng pangarap mo ay nakasalalay sa mga desisyon mo.”

NICA DEL ROSARIO

To many OPM fans, Nica del Rosario is an icon of the industry. The singer-songwriter has a stable of genre-defining songs under her belt. She has written or co-written, among other tracks, Sarah Geronimo’s Tala and BINI’s Na Na Na, hits that entered the Filipino cultural zeitgeist. But more than making the OPM bops that are mainstays of our playlists, Nica del Rosario is using her talents to help bring about change in society.

While the arts has always had its purpose in entertaining, it can also be used to inspire, educate, and influence people on pressing issues, something Nica believes in as well. “Naniniwala ako sa kapangyarihan ng sining at musika para makipagbigay ng boses para sa mga natatangap ng pag-aapi at diskriminasyon.”

Nica is hoping to use her works and platform to help the underprivileged, especially women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and make sure their voices are heard. “Gagamitin ko ang aking boses upang ipaglaban ang karapatan ng mga kababaihan at LGBTQIA+ community na mabuhay na malaya, maligaya at walang takot. Sa pamamagitan ng aking sining, panta ko sa bayan na patuloy ko ibandera ang pag-asa ng kinabukasan ng ating inaasam.” Nica del Rosario is here to show that music was, is, and will continue to be a medium for free expression and an outlet for people to share their aspirations for society.

TURING

When we first got to see Turing on our screens as a contestant on the inaugural season of Drag Race Philippines, she quickly became a fan-favorite thanks to her fierce personality and killer moves. Her verse in Pop Off Ate still lives rent-free in our mind. But aside from a memorable stint on the show, Turing is loved by many because of how she’s helping make a space for those who don’t fit the standards of certain sectors of society.

As a plus-size and feminine drag artist on a major TV show, Turing made people who look and act like her feel seen and heard. This is a goal Turing will continue to strive for. While there have been strides to move towards a more accepting society, discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines is still a concern. This is something Turing herself has experienced before. “Being plus-size and feminine in this country, equality, respect, and acceptance has always been something I don’t normally receive.”

In a time when there are those in power who try to brush aside the concerns and welfare of the community, Turing is vowing to use her newly-found platform to help build a safer space for LGBTQIA+ Filipinos. “As an advocate and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I pledge to always promote equality in all platforms and anywhere I go. I promise to help educate people to know and understand us as well as educate them about SOGIE Equality Bill to the best of my knowledge. Let’s join hands and fight discrimination.”

DORA DORADO

Aside from being one of our favorite 2000s movies to rewatch, Legally Blonde also gave us the icon and inspiration that is Elle Woods. She strolled into Harvard Law School in her pink looks and proved her doubters wrong by excelling in school and getting that degree. Elle proved that you can serve while advocating for change, which is a path Dora Dorado now finds himself in.

Most got to know Dora on social media where, among other things, he uses to raises awareness for just causes and advocacies. But, other than that, he’s also getting his head in the books as a student at the Ateneo Law School. From social media to the courtroom, Dora is going to be his unapologetic self who strives to see better things in society.

Over the years, Dora has used his platform to entertain and educate. The content creator and performer doesn’t miss with his content as he also proudly waves his flag. That’s an aspect of him the 27-year-old isn’t letting go anytime soon. “Patuloy ako maging isang mahusay na mamamayan at maging mas mabuti pang ehemplo sa sangkabaklaan.”

Dora stands tall as a member of the LGBTIA+ community, using his influence to help bring about the change that many of us strive for. And know that he’s on his was to getting that law degree, the soon-to-be-lawyer aims to use his newfound learnings to achieve just that. “Through my individual actions, I hope to connect with like-minded individuals to enact positive change through community-driven efforts that would drive people-centered, inclusive, and better policy making in the future.” This is what it means to slay in a law-abiding way.

BGYO

“Becoming the change, Going further, You and I, Originally Filipino.” Over the course of two years in the fiercely competitive and ever-evolving music industry, BGYO has consistently stayed true to their name, utilizing their talents and platform to push the boundaries of the Pinoy pop genre.

With the successful release of two albums, namely The Light and Be Us, numerous captivating performances on both local and international stages, and their selection as ambassadors for various brands, Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate have embraced their title as the Aces of P-pop, proudly carrying it with them on every step of their career journey.

As trailblazers in the pop music scene, BGYO recognizes the significance of their privileged platform as young artists. This is why the boy group makes a solemn promise to never take this responsibility for granted and to continue inspiring fellow youth to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. “Bilang kabataan, ang BGYO ay magiging tapat sa adhikain na magbigay inspirasyon sa pamamagitan ng aming musika, sining, at asal.”

“Ipagpapatuloy ang misyon na maging mabuting huwaran sa kapuwa namin kabataan, sa mga katulad naming nangangarap, sa mga katulad naming anak, estudyante, at kaibigan,” BGYO adds, emphasizing their determination to exemplify how persistence and patience can turn dreams into reality. At the core of BGYO’s mission is to lead by example, well-aware of how their choices and action can move others to take their next big step.

As they continue to live up to their name by reaching new heights and showcasing the unique talent of Filipinos worldwide, BGYO vows to take the lead in effecting positive change within the nation as young and determined Filipinos. “Taas-noo sa kabiguan, taas-noo sa pagbangon, taas-noo sa bawat yapak sa pag-abot ng pangarap, mag-aambag maliit man o malaki para sa ikabubuti ng ating bayan.”

KAKIE PANGILINAN

Being born to a superstar mother and a politician father can be a blinding privilege to have. But this is not the case for Frankie “Kakie” Pangilinan, who is probably one of this generation’s most self-aware, grounded, and vocal representatives. Whether it be great strides like actively fighting oppression and inequality to something as personal as questioning her own place of privilege, Kakie was never one to stay silent and shy away from speaking truth to power and doing what’s right when it matters most. 

Even only in her early twenties, Kakie Pangilinan has always shown, in her unfiltered yet substantial words and unflinching self-expression, that she’s wise beyond her years. “To blatantly accept things as they are, without context nor provision, is unacceptable in this ever changing socio-political landscape,” Kakie tells NYLON Manila in a past interview. “People my age truly need to fully wake up and gain the awareness that just because things may not affect us personally does not mean they are not of worth.”

This grit and wit are part and parcel of Kakie’s personality, something that has been both admired and talked about by many. But the student, writer, singer-songwriter, advocate, and former NYLON Manila cover star has always held her head high and braved the responsibility of being the voice of those who are rendered voiceless, even if the heft of the truth she’s speaking is too much to handle for some.

“I believe in the power of intersectional feminism,” Kakie intones. “Through intersectional feminism, we can develop sectors of the Philippines that need further support in legislation and programs targeted at socioeconomic development.”

Merriam-Webster defines “intersectional feminism” or “intersectionality” as the “complex and cumulative way that the effects of different forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, and  intersect.” First used by scholar and civil rights advocate Kimberle Crenshaw in 1989, intersectional feminism is a critical concept that allows us to understand how various types of marginalization intersect and compound, resulting in distinct vulnerabilities that cannot be effectively addressed with universal solutions.

By recognizing this dynamic, we become more discerning in our evaluation of the power structures we seek to transform, enabling us to adopt a more targeted approach in advancing gender equality and/or other measures to combat social inequities. Kakie Pangilinan believes that intersectional feminism offers us the best lens to look at the current problems that plague Philippine society and believes that its multisectoral approach may best help us in addressing them.

“Because true equality for all means equal opportunity for all,” stresses Kakie. “Regardless of sex, gender, religious beliefs and class.”

Miel Pangilinan

Growing up in the public eye, Miel Pangilinan has faced her fair share of unfair criticisms and even undeserved hatred. Despite recently coming of age, this teenager has had to endure harsh and toxic comments targeting her body and gender identity, which have had a detrimental impact on her emotional well-being, particularly during her formative years.

Even at the tender age of 12, Miel began experiencing the traumatic consequences of being in the limelight. When she publicly came out as queer last year, she faced further questioning, undermining, and online harassment. Although the weight of these experiences has been overwhelming at times, Miel remains resolute in her determination to overcome the hate. “What is it gonna do for me, other than make me feel bad?” Miel tells NYLON Manila in an interview for her cover story. “Yes, it’s inescapable and I get hurt over it, but that’s the extent that I’m going to let the comments do to me. I don’t let it go past a surface level effect on me.”

While she seems still too young for some, Miel Pangilinan’s wisdom and self-awareness reflect a maturity beyond her years. As a member of the generation of digital natives, she understands the daunting nature of the online space and how it can perpetuate a hostile reality that further marginalizes queer individuals like herself. That is why, this Independence Day, Miel pledges to continue raising her voice to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Queer Filipinos are Filipinos just the same,” Miel Pangilinan declares. “And they deserve the same accessibility to resources, stability, and safety like everyone else.” Miel has previously highlighted that the root causes of the challenges queer people face are others’ ignorance and the fear of the unknown. She believes that more representation will make the queer community more visible, included, and understood as “very real people with very real feelings.”

“As a queer person myself, I find it important to advocate for these things as a Filipino,” furthers Miel. “Because both my culture and my identity played big parts in my life and in who I am as a person.

Shoot director KENNETH DIMAANO

Videography KIM ANGELA SANTOS

Photography KIERAN PUNAY & EXCEL PANLAQUE

Sittings Editor RAF BAUTISTA

Video Editor TRISHA ENRIQUEZ

Ad & Promo Associate MICHAELA ACILO

Makeup ATRICIA PEREZ & JOEY COSIO-MERCADO

Booking Associate MIKA TAFALLA

Continue Reading: Young Celebrities And Personalities Who Make For Great Role Models

Levi’s® just celebrated the 150th anniversary of its most iconic design in a three-day event, and here are all the juicy details

Trends in the fashion industry may come and go in a blink of an eye. Which is why it takes something truly special to stay relevant for multiple seasons, let alone for a century and a half. What started off as a humble piece of garment for the working people, denim has now been present in the industry for multiple generations. However, whenever denim is mentioned, the classic Levi’s® red tag will always come to mind, and with their iconic 501® jeans turning 150 this year, the brand set forth in a year-long celebration of the greatest story ever worn.

The humble beginnings 

The year was 1873 and along with that was the birth of the classic blue jeans. Specifically, it was the time Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis acquired a U.S. patent on adding small metal rivets to men’s workwear pants. Although denim has been present way before that historic year, it was the process of reinforcing the denim cloth that made it to what we now know as the Levi’s® 501® jeans. 

Fast forward to 2023, exactly 150 years later, what started as an unassuming pair of utilitarian workwear is now considered to be one of the most popular pieces of apparel in the fashion world. To honor this extraordinary milestone, Levi® started a year-long celebration all over the globe. For the Philippines, it just so happened to be a three-day pop up event last May 19-21 at SM Mall of Asia. 

The 501® Experience

The exclusive celebration was not just a simple event but an immersive experience altogether. Everyone had the chance to live the 501® Story as they socialized and mingle around as it was also a day for creating exciting connections through the 501® Experience. 

Upon arriving, guests were greeted by a red carpet where they can start their photo ops from the get-go. With some of your favorite celebrities and content creators present, the day was charged with such thrilling energy as the program commenced with a guest appearance of Levi’s® campaign ambassador Maureen Wroblewitz, and a video greeting from K-pop stars NewJeans. A party is never complete without music pumping and live performances from your favorite local artists surely made the day more exciting.

As denim dominated the day, the interactive booths were one of the highlights of the event. The Tailor Shop and Collab Studio definitely stood out as people can get their Levi’s® denim wear  specially designed with custom embroidery, exclusive patches, or have it hand painted. Guests could also have their very own styling sessions with one of their invited stylists at the Pop Up Shop. And of course, the dedicated photo booth proved to be a crowd favorite as guests got to commemorate the special day with their friends. 

As a fashion piece that simply never goes out of style, this remarkable milestone is but a true testament to its endless influence and versatility—a true fashion icon. The celebration was simply not only a day to honor the brand’s profound heritage but to also kick off a brighter future ahead.

To know more about Levi’s® and their iconic 501s®, you can check out their website, Facebook, and Instagram.

Creative Direction Kenneth Dimaano

Art Direction Brianna De Guzman

Photography Favour Ajah

Videography JR Ramirez

Brand Associate Elyse Ilagan

No date? No problem! These local stars prove that being single is okay and taking your time to find the right one is actually a healthy choice.

Related: Weekend Watchlist: 10 Movies That Will Make You Feel Better Being Single

Love can be a beautiful journey, but it can also be a tricky and tough road to navigate, oftentimes filled with both joy and heartbreak. Yet amidst the whirlwind of romantic entanglements, there are those who have found solace and contentment in their singlehood. In the glamorous world of Filipino showbiz, which is sometimes driven by who the hottest love teams are, there are inspiring celebrities who have chosen to celebrate their independence, reminding us that being single can be a time of personal growth, empowerment, and self-love. From pursuing their passions to prioritizing their well-being, these Filipino stars will not only uplift your spirits, but also make you feel good about embracing your own single blessedness.

Alden Richards

Like other celebrities in the spotlight, Alden Richards knows all too well about the pressures of being in romantic relationships. In a recent interview with Ogie Diaz, Asia’s Multimedia Star reiterates that he’s single and that he’s not in a rush to be in a relationship, although he adds that he ultimately has plans to get married and have a family in the future.

And if you’re one of those people who feel the fear of being left out while being single, Alden has a piece of advice: “Darating din iyan, ‘wag ka mag-alala.” The Pambansang Bae adds, “Invest in yourself first. Love yourself first. There’s always a perfect time for [finding the one].”

Maxene Magalona

If there’s somebody who is admirably in touch with their single blessedness, it’s gotta be Filipina actress Maxene Magalona. In a series of encouraging Instagram posts, Maxene has stressed the benefits of singlehood and how being alone is not necessarily being lonely. 

“Perks of being single and childless: You have full control of your schedule. You can literally do anything you want on any day at whatever time,” she says in an IG post. In another musing, Maxine implores everyone to not be caged in a label. “Whether you’re single, taken, married, divorced or widowed—it doesn’t really matter. Your relationship status doesn’t define you.” We stan a true self-love warrior. 

Jane De Leon

Jane de Leon was thrust to nationwide attention when she took flight as the famous local superheroine, Darna, in ABS-CBN’s Mars Ravelo’s Darna that ended earlier this year. And among the things about her that were subjected to public scrutiny was her love life.

Jane admits that she has had her heart broken “many times” before, and that’s one of the reasons why romantic pursuits have taken the backseat in her life for the meantime. She’s also her family’s breadwinner and shares in an interview that she’s now focused on her flourishing career. And we can all learn from Jane when she says she’s also learning to love herself first before committing in a relationship. “Paano mo mamahalin ‘yung ibang tao kung hindi mo mahal sarili mo?”

Janella Salvador

From Darna to Valentina, Janella Salvador is another powerful example of someone thriving in singlehood. Janella shares in an interview that if there are some similarities between her and her Valentina alter-ego, Regina, it’s her determination to fight for what’s right. And asked about the last thing she fought for, the singer-actress proudly answers being a single mom to his son, Jude.

“Talagang nilalaban ko [being a single mom],” Janella emphasizes. “At the end of the day, alam kong kaya ko naman siya. As much as I love the people around me who are always there to help me, I always want to know na kaya kong gawin. I don’t want it to sound bad kasi, pero I can rely on myself na hindi ko kailangang humingi ng tulong sa iba.” A strong and single wonder woman, indeed.

Moira dela Torre

Whether it’s about love, betrayal, heartbreak, redemption, there’s no denying how Moira dela Torre became the symbol of heart-ripping and mending anthems throughout the years. And Moira knows it, the complicated and harsh nature of love, having experienced all of it. 

But being single has not put Moira down. In fact, unfazed by the controversies, she took it in stride and welcomed a new era that is inspiring and, well, record-breaking. Not only did she give us a new look, she also had her first world tour where she held sold-out concerts here and abroad and even made history in Canada. Plus, there are her new anthems to get senti to. Moira’s giving us some single life goals to aspire to.

Sharlene San Pedro

Gamer, singer-songwriter, and actress Sharlene San Pedro also makes for a healthy example dealing with her singlehood. Even if celebrities are almost always expected to be an open book, Sharlene wants to keep her love life private as much as possible because she doesn’t want the showbiz world to affect that very personal matter.

In another interview, the Ten Little Mistresses star shares how she wants her future partner and relationship to be low-key yet truthful. “‘Di naman kailangan i-public lahat ng mga mangyayari sa buhay nyong dalawa,” Sharlene says. “Maganda na for memories lang, kayong dalawa.”

David Licauco

Yes, even the Pambansang Ginoo himself, David Licauco, is still single right now. But it’s not for long as it seems, because David reveals that he is already preparing to eventually settle down in the future. “I see myself probably getting married in five years,”  the actor-businessman says. “That’s why I’m working hard for the future.” That’s definitely some green flag energy from someone who has played a character once called the Pambansang Red Flag.

BONUS: Sandara Park

You would think that a K-pop superstar like Sandara Park has it easy in the love department. But it’s the very industry that’s made the former 2NE1 member and the Pinoy-at-heart to choose to embrace her single life instead. In the web show, No Back Tak Jae-hoon, Dara reveals the reason behind this choice.

Asked if she hates men, she reasons with conviction: “It’s not like that. I want to stay single. There are too many people around me who have experienced failed marriages.” Just like Dara, may we all realize that there’s nothing wrong with being single, especially if it means doing away with toxic relationships.

Continue Reading: 6 Reasons Why It Pays To Be Single This Valentine’s Day—Literally

From a Belle Mariano and Kyline Alcantara reunion to a Kathryn Bernardo and Dolly De Leon team-up, these celeb crossovers were like seeing fan fiction come to life.

Related: These Pinoy Celebrities Stood Up For Each Other When It Mattered Most

On the outside looking in, the celebrity world might seem like a big and often intimidating place. But as these following interactions prove, the world is a pretty small place with your fave stars you probably thought didn’t know each other actually being besties IRL. Even though we’re only halfway through 2023, we’ve already gotten out fair share of interactions we didn’t see coming. In an industry that’s sometimes known for fake relationships, it’s nice seeing these friendships develop. Scroll down for the celebrity crossovers that had us double-tapping.

HEART EVANGELISTA AND ANNE CURTIS

It’s an It-girls meet-up as Heart Evangelista and Anne Curtis reunited at the reopening of the Tiffany & Co’s store on Fifth Avenue, New York City earlier this year.

KATHRYN BERNARDO, BELLE MARIANO, LOISA ANDALIO, AND MAYMAY ENTRATA

The amount of star power in this picture is enough to light up Southeast Asia. In between all the action at the 2023 Star Magic All Star Games was this crossover between four of the biggest Gen Z queens.

BGYO’S GELO AND MIKKI AND NADINE LUSTRE

If only we could be a fly on the wall to see what Nadine talked about with BGYO. We have a feeling she gave the boys some P-pop wisdom given how Nadine’s P-pop hits still slap to this day.

ANDREA BRILLANTES, KYLINE ALCANTARA, AND DENISE LAUREL

The last thing we expected to see this 2023 was an Annaliza reunion, but here we are, and we couldn’t be happier. And Andrea, Kyline, and Denise’s reunion happened, in all places, at the BLACKPINK concert in Bulacan last March. Look at Arlene and Annaliza all grown up.

DAVID LICAUCO AND VIVOREE

@david_fanatic D: "ABS ka? " V: "opp" D: "19 lang ako" V:"Ahh, wow" Ang kyut mo naman@David Licauco 19 kalang? 😝 napaka friendly ng ating pambansang ginoo🥰#davidlicauco❣️ #pambansangginoo💖💖💖 #davidlicaucofan❣️ #vivoreeesclito #benchfashionweek2023 #fypシ #foryoupage ♬ Sweet But Psycho(bootleg) – Sour丶柠檬

With the number of celebrities who attended and walked the Bench Fashion Week earlier this year, there was bound to be an interaction or two. And we got just that when David Licauco and Vivoree shared a little chat backstage of the show. Their talk may have only lasted a few minutes, but it was more than enough for us.

KATHRYN BERNARDO AND DOLLY DE LEON

Whosever idea it was to have Kathryn Bernardo and Dolly De Leon star in the same movie together needs a raise ASAP. The two are set to star in Star Magic’s A Very Good Girl, which features an eat-the-rich plot from a young woman’s perspective. You can bet we already have our tickets reserved for this joint slay.

BELLE MARIANO AND KYLINE ALCANTARA

In case you didn’t know, Belle Mariano and Kyline Alcantara are friends. Kyline even considers Belle to be her first showbiz friend. But given their busy schedules, the two haven’t been able to meet up for a while, until now. Belle and Kyline were at Darren Espanto’s 22nd birthday party and snapped this reunion pick we’ve all been waiting for.

JOSH CULLEN AND DOLLY DE LEON

Pageant coronation nights often bring together an interesting mix of personalities to be the judges. And for the Binibining Pilipinas 2023 Grand Coronation, we were treated to this interaction from SB19’s Josh and Dolly De Leon. Both served as judges and sat beside each other on the judges’ table.

BONUS: 1ST.ONE’s JAYSON AND SEVENTEEN’S SEUNGKWAN

Imagine meeting three members of SEVENTEEN at a hair salon. For 1st.One’s Alpha and Jayson, that wasn’t an excerpt from a Wattpad story but real life when the two P-pop idols went to the same salon as SEVENTEEN’s DK, Woozi, and Seungkwan. Jayson even got to snap a pic with Seungkwan as the K-pop star even shared some words of encouragement to the P-pop group.

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From busking on the streets of Melbourne to performing on stages around the world, RINI is that R&B star that should be on your playlist.

Related: Denise Julia Is So Much More Than An Ariana Grande Soundalike

Love is one of the most ubiquitous topics in music. No matter what genre it may be, love will always find a way to be at the center of the discussion. It’s a topic so used, it can be hard to be surprised when listening to a love song and trying to find new ways to relate to it. If that’s the case for your listening habits, then you probably don’t have RINI in your playlist.

Justerini Sandoval, who more commonly goes by his stage name RINI, was born in the Philippines and spent a good portion of his childhood in the country. Later on, he and his family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where RINI developed his love for the R&B sound. Turning to genre greats like Frank Ocean, Daniel Caesar, and Kehlani, RINI began sharing his work independently online to a growing audience. Soon, his slow and sensual R&B told through his sultry falsetto and soul-stirring voice caught the attention of Warner Music, who signed the rising star.

A move to Los Angeles, and scoring hits like My Favorite Clothes and Meet Me in Amsterdam, solidified his status as one to watch out for. Currently on his world tour, which will include a stop in Manila in July, RINI is bringing his impeccable talent for turning mundane events into moving bops in all four corners of the globe.

Before he embarks on the Asian and Australian leg of his tour, we got the chance to chat with the 24-year-old artist, where he opened up about his artistry, Filipino roots, getting to perform in the Philippines, and more. Read on below for the full interview.

Where did your stage name of RINI come from?

RINI really came from the last four letters of my first name which is Justerini. 

How did you fall in love with music? 

I fell in love with music at an early age, My dad was very into music. He would always be blasting music in the house, sometimes with them big ass speakers so that the whole street could hear it. My interest in guitar sparked up when I was in primary school. My dad would bring home instruments from when he goes overseas for work and that’s how I was able to get on the guitar.

When it comes to your music, you’re known for your take on the warm side of R&B. How did you settle on this side of the genre? 

I grew up listening to a lot of Rock and Pop music, but R&B didn’t come until later on when I moved to Australia. As a teen, I was into breakdancing and hip-hop and also I played guitar for my church. This was the time that R&B became the genre that I was able to connect with the most. 

The way you write love songs has often been praised by fans and critics. Where do you get the inspiration to pen down your lyrics?

The way I write is through my personal experience, or at least inspired by it. I always try to connect with a song emotionally before I put it out because that way it stays in its raw and honest form. A lot of the things I write about is what I am currently going through or a friend is going through or what a character from a movie could be going through.

From growing up in the Philippines, moving to Melbourne, and living in LA, how has your multicultural upbringing impacted your music?

I’m grateful to have been able to experience life as a kid in the Philippines, it’s very very humbling to look back at it and realize how far I’ve come. I feel like each chapter of my life has helped me become the person I am today, and I guess it wouldn’t be the same if it didn’t end up this way. I’m also very proud to be representing the Filipinos and our culture especially in an industry where there’s really not a lot of us that really came from the motherland.

Has the way you make music now changed as compared to when you started as an independent artist

Yes, I definitely think my music has grown from the time I started putting music out independently. I’m always learning and trying new things out and I always aim to do better.

Are there any Filipino musicians you like to listen to or would love to collaborate with? 

I definitely listen to a couple of Filipino artists, even the oldies. But someone I’d love to collaborate with that’s a Filipino artist is Olivia Rodrigo. Her music is so dope!

You are set to perform in Manila on July 19 as part of your current world tour. How does it feel getting to perform for a Filipino crowd?

It feels so surreal that this is going to be the first time that I get to perform in the place where I was born. It’s the very first time that I’m going back home as a musician and not just someone who grew up there. So, it’s definitely a new thing for me and I don’t think I’ve even processed the thought completely. I’m just so excited for what’s to come 🙂

What can Pinoy fans expect from your Manila show?

They’re gonna have a great time and they’ll be vibing to these songs for real. Also, I’m excited to speak in Tagalog for the whole show. 

Did you ever think your life would lead you to where you are now? 

Not in a million years but I’m blessed to have the life I have and the opportunity to be able to share my gift and inspire people. That’s all glory to my creator.

For your new and potential fans out there, what songs of yours do you think they should check out if they want to know who RINI is? 

I think My Favorite Clothes is such a crowd favorite and a RINI classic so that will always set the tone for new listeners, but I would love them to hear the newest song My Luv because I’m developing new sonics every time.

What advice would you give to young artists who hope to start a career in music?

My best advice is to know that each of us possess something unique and are able to bring something special to the music, we just need to dive deep into it and be really passionate and love what we do. Another important advice is to always treat people with respect and remember to look back where you came from, it’ll keep you grounded.

Photos by Yudo Kurita.

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Calling all proud queers who know to flaunt their confident beauty, this trailblazing fashion event is especially for you.

Related: These Celebrities Made Their Catwalk Debut At Bench Fashion Week 2023

In today’s day and age, the concept of beauty has evolved, breaking free from the narrow constraints of the past. It is no longer confined to a singular ideal, but rather embraces a diverse array of forms, shapes, colors, and sizes. This shift in perception celebrates the uniqueness and individuality of each person, recognizing that true beauty lies in the authenticity of self-expression.

As we step into the vibrant and empowering month of Pride, our celebration goes beyond love and self-acceptance; it embraces the beautiful diversity that exists within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder that beauty knows no boundaries and flourishes in the kaleidoscope of human expression, allowing individuals to confidently shine in their own radiant hues.

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Highlighting this celebration of diversity, Avon Philippines takes a bold step towards embracing inclusivity by hosting the country’s first-ever all-queer fashion show just in time for Pride Month. Breaking barriers and challenging traditional notions of beauty, Avon Philippines aims to showcase the plural and fluid allure of the LGBTQIA+ community in this not-your-ordinary underwear show.

And so, if you’re queer and knows how to flaunt it, then Avon Philippines is looking for you. The all-queer intimate apparel fashion show features the brand’s Flexicomfort Intimate Apparel line. And the search for the models for this trailblazing fashion event is now on-going. If you’re 18 years old and above, a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have that “comfydence” to express yourself, then head over to this link to register and prepare your best self to slay that runway. We know you won’t disappoint.

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With a memorable role as the loveable Luna in Netflix’s Unstable, Rachel Marsh is another rising Fil-Am star to watch out for.

Related: Ciara Riley Wilson Is Ready For The Spotlight—And Her Own Netflix Show

Quirky and loveable, but authentically herself, Luna is 1/3 of the comedic triumvirate of young and astounding characters introduced in Unstable. The new series by Netflix, starring the father and son duo of Rob Lowe and John Owen Lowe, spotlights a slew of new talents to watch – from the awkward and intense stylings of Aaron Branch as Malcolm, to Emma Ferreira’s honest and headstrong performance of Ruby. Enter, Rachel Marsh.

FINDING HER PLACE

This charming lass from Seattle is more than just meets the eye. Growing up with a host of many cultures – from her Filipino roots, Hawaii and its rich history and tradition, and her American surroundings; there was a struggle there for Marsh to assimilate into the different sides of herself. Her paternal grandparents hailed from Manila, but she herself grew up in the rainy city of Seattle. This exposed her to a hodge podge of different languages, from Tagalog to her dad’s Pigeon English. In this way, she claims her ties as “definitely a little bit split.”

With talents the likes of Jacob Batalon, Olivia Rodrigo, Dave Bautista, Manny Jacinto, Lea Salonga, and Josh Dela Cruz on the rise in American media, it’s almost impossible to remember a time when representation wasn’t so pervasive. However, championing diverse casts and telling cultural stories wasn’t always a thing. It’s something Marsh remembers very well, even as she started out her acting journey. But even deeper than that, she always felt this divide between herself and everyone else because of the fact that she is biracial.

“Growing up being mixed is interesting. Because I think, how the world perceives you is kind of like the traits that you take on yourself. A lot of people viewed me as someone who didn’t really quite fit into someone who’s totally white, or someone who’s totally Filipino. For a lot of my childhood especially, I tried to identify more as my white side. It was like a defense mechanism of fitting in or not, wanting to stand out as a kid. Whether that be through what I brought to school, like my lunches. Sometimes, I’d be embarrassed of bringing different Asian foods.”

EARLY DAYS

That lack of knowing her place didn’t stop there. Marsh moved to California in pursuit of a sunnier state. She grew to make friends who would later introduce her to comedy and improv classes. Performing has always been something she was interested in, even back in high school. She did competitive cheerleading and was part of the theatre department. As a really shy kid, she loved the prospect of “being a totally different person on-stage”. When she moved to Los Angeles, she felt that missing aspect of her life: the performance. Through her friends and the classes, she found her comedic voice—and her voice in general—which started her on the path of becoming an actress.

But that was no easy task. She found it difficult even getting an agent within the industry because, according to her, “People don’t really know where to put you sometimes.” It was admittedly a challenge her whole life – trying to find exactly where she belongs. But ever the clever one, she saw this as an inherent privilege – being able to fit into different categories and wanting to choose that. As she sees the continual change in Hollywood, this need for representation and the celebration of Asian talent – she has also learned to accept herself and grow into a person she actually likes.

FILIPINO STAR ON THE RISE

Now, she’s starring as a series regular on Unstable, playing the smart, introverted Luna Castillo who not only steals Jackson Dragon’s heart but also the audience’s as well. It’s an arc all too familiar to Marsh; the development of Luna sees her in a state of stagnation, wanting to experience many different things she’s not bold enough to try. As the series moves forward, she braves the world and tests different waters, trying her best whilst remaining true to herself. Marsh collaborated with the writers and showrunners to help the character flourish on-screen. She added little details to Luna’s voice and how she moves.

“It was just so fun because our team was so willing to let me take a little bit of agency in that way and help build the character. I never had a character where I was in the whole season before. I’ve always had parts where I was in one or two episodes of the show. For Luna to be in every episode of the series was such a big responsibility and I knew that I had to create a full character.”

Beyond her current run in the series, Marsh continues to reconnect with her Filipino roots, remembering the memories associated with the little cultural things, like her dad’s adobo. While he’s still in Seattle, she has learned to make the dish for herself to cook in moments of craving. Sometimes, she visits her favorite L.A. restaurant, L.A. Rose. For dessert, especially this past Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, she goes to Wanderlust, a Filipino-owned ice cream shop with the signature flavor of ube.

Marsh also takes Tagalog classes to learn to speak the language, and dreams of one day shooting in the Philippines. More than that, she just wants to continue working and seeing the different places her career can take her – whether that’s to stay in comedy, or explore other genres.

“It’s a really exciting time in media, especially for Asian representation and actors. It seems like we’re not being confined into these boxes that we used to be before, and people are open to seeing us in different ways. I hope that whatever role I have next, I’m able to explore the nuances of being biracial or being half-Asian in a really fresh perspective, whatever that looks like.”

Photos by Nick Rassmussen

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These collaborations between Filipino artists and K-pop idols lowkey made the world a better place.

Related: You Can Thank These Filipino Creatives For Some Of Your Fave K-pop Tracks

To many fans, just getting a chance to meet their fave K-pop idols is a dream come true. But why just meet your idols when you can work for them? And for a few Filipino stars, that isn’t a hypothetical question, but real life. Over the years, a handful of local personalities lived the Y/N life by getting to link up and collaborate with some of the biggest K-pop stars in the world. From musical features to TikTok dances that broke the internet, here are a few times when Filipino celebrities worked with K-pop idols and launched a thousand sana alls across social media. 

MAYMAY ENTRATA WITH PENTAGON’S WOOSEOK

Did we expect this to happen? No. But are we happy this exists? Absolutely. TBH, given how much of a kabogera MayMay is, it’s on-brand for her to collab with a K-pop idol for her comeback, such as what she did with AUTODEADMA, which featured Pentagon’s Wooseok. MayMay and Wooseok aren’t paying the haters any mind.

BEN&BEN WITH YOUNG K

Not only has Ben&Ben earned praise from numerous K-pop idols, but they also worked with one as the band collaborated with Young K for a special version of their ballad, Leaves. They really got us in our feels across two countries.   

A-TEAM WITH JESSIE

Jessie’s concert in Manila in 2022 was a special one, and not just because it was the first solo concert of her career. During the show, she made sure to highlight local talent by bringing out A-Team on the stage to dance with her. As one of the best dance troupes in the country, you can bet A-Team slayed that stage with Jessie.

JAMES REID WITH JAY B AND WOOSUNG

James Reid is pretty much collecting K-pop idols like photocards. He’s rubbed shoulders with numerous K-pop idols over the last year alone, including for a couple of music collabs. For Hello 2.0, the remix to his song of the same name, he enlisted the help of JAY B, which they got to perform live for the first time during the idol’s concert in the country in October 2022. The Rose’s Woosung, meanwhile, features in James’ lovescene album for the song hold on tight.

NIANA GUERRERO WITH NCT DREAM

@nianaguerrero #BringYourBeatBox challenge with #NCTDREAM ⭐️🔥 lets gooo! w the sibs @Ranz Kyle #onewithnatalia ♬ Beatbox – NCT DREAM

Niana Guerrero must have saved an entire civilization with how she’s been noticed many times by K-pop idols. If idols aren’t doing her dance challenges, they’re dancing with her on TikTok. Some idols Niana has met and collaborated with include JAY B, Treasure’s Hyunsuk and Asahi, and NCT Dream, with each link-up eating every single time. And let’s not forget the time when she, Ranz Kyle, and their sister Natalia talked to Somi in 2020. Can we get a prayer reveal Niana?

KEN SAN JOSE WITH MARK TUAN

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A post shared by Ken San Jose (@kensanjose)

For years, Ken San Jose has charmed audiences around the world with his performing skills. So, it wasn’t that surprising to see him be chosen by Mark Tuan, who is also his friend IRL, to be one of his backup dancers for his first solo tour. The only thing we need now is for Mark to bring his The Other Side tour to the Philippines.

AC BONIFACIO WITH TREASURE

@andreebonifacioo DARARI with the ogs @yg_treasure_official 🥹🫰🏼 #TREASURE #ACBONIFACIO ♬ 다라리 (DARARI) – TREASURE (트레저)

We have a feeling that AC Bonifacio is on the favorites list of K-pop companies with how many idols she’s met and worked with. She got to do the Darari challenge with TREASURE, no big deal. AC and Doyoung were giving twin vibes. And if that wasn’t enough, she was chosen as the Philippine representative for the global dance video of Going Dumb, Alesso’s collab with Stray Kids and Corsak.

DENISE LAUREL WITH TREASURE’S HYUNSUK

@d_laurel So thissss happened!!!! Still can’t believe i got to dance with THE #choihyunsuk BIG PURRRR they said they Can’t wait to come back MANILA! Love from our leadernim! @yg_treasure_official #treasure #트레저 #treasure_hello #TOUR #manila #deesroom ♬ original sound – Rasheed Magabo III

Denise Laurel is called the queen of Filipino K-pop fan girls for a reason. She’s able to consistently meet our K-faves whenever they travel to the Philippines, not to mention have them in Dee’s Room. Our favorite, though, has to be when she met TREASURE backstage during their Manila concert and danced with Hyunsuk. This video still lives rent-free in our mind.

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The Philippines and P-pop are the main highlight of this inaugural concert series that aims to showcase the finest of ASEAN music.

Related: BINI And BGYO Really Said P-pop Talent In Their MTV Asia Spot

There’s no denying that Pinoy Pop has now come a long way and continues to get more widely known and appreciated across the globe. Ever since SB19’s resounding success has blazed a trail for the genre, more and more talented P-pop artists and groups have emerged and continue to perform and create world-class pop music that puts P-pop on the map.  Embracing this exciting momentum, a groundbreaking concert in Singapore is set to shine a spotlight on P-pop, celebrating its cultural significance and providing a platform for talented Filipino artists to showcase their artistry on an international stage.

SPECTACLE! 2023

It’s called SPECTACLE!, a concert series organized by Singaporean production house AOR Global, which intends to showcase the best musicians from Singapore, ASEAN and Asia, and to “celebrate their journeys in the growing music scene.” Gathering the local and regional artists of similar styles and genres, SPECTACLE! also aims to offer a platform for cross-cultural connection and promotion of their works to new audiences.

This year is the inaugural edition of SPECTACLE! and they have selected the Philippines as the country of choice, focusing on “idol-type performances,” which is especially evident in the Pinoy pop genre. With a fusion of Singapore’s own vibrant pop music scene, this year’s concert is titled, SPECTACLE! 2023: The Best of S-pop and P-pop.

A fitting title if you’d ask us knowing the caliber of the spectacular lineup of artists gracing the SPECTACLE! stage. Of course, leading the P-pop squad are the aforementioned BGYO and BINI. It’s also quite an opportune moment for the Star Magic sibling groups. BGYO, also known as the Aces of P-pop, just had their anniversary concert last month while the Nation’s Girl Group, BINI, will also celebrate their second year this month.

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A post shared by AOR Global 新岩国际 (@aorglobalpteltd)

BINI and BGYO will be joined by Yes My Love, a newly-minted six-member boy group from Cornerstone, and GMA Entertainment’s four-piece girl squad XOXO. Both with performance skills and powerhouse vocals, P-pop will surely make noise in Singapore with this event. Singapore’s own pop soloists Estelle Fly and Alfred Sun will also bring the heat to the SPECTACLE!

SPECTACLE! 2023 happens on June 11, 2023 at the Esplanade Recital Studio. If you’re in the area and want a taste of great ASEAN music, then SPECTACLE! is the way to go. You can book your tickets here.

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