If you’re looking for another reason to purchase those tickets, we’re introducing the most sought-after artists from the local scene who will be performing at Linya-Linya Land 2023.

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The stage is set for the much-awaited return of Linya-Linya Land. On Saturday, they’re taking puns to a celebration of music and culture with a larger lineup. While Linya-Linya Land has been rocking with their sick lineup of artists, this year is seriously breaking the record. Ready for the scoop? This time around, they’re bringing out the biggest names in art and stand-up comedy as well. As the countdown begins, it’s time to introduce the talented performers who will be gracing the stage at Linya-Linya Land 2023.

Autotelic

Back in the early 2010s, when Filipino pop-rock bands were blowing up the scene, Autotelic stepped up as a total front-runner in the local landscape. Fast forward to 2023, Autotelic’s music still hits home. I mean, I’m still singing along to Takipsilim, Laguyin, and Laro after all those gigs I’ve been to in college.

Cheats

After Hakbang, Kapit, and Accidents, who isn’t a fan of Cheats? What started as a collective of couch potatoes, their music is now making people dance all night—then cry on the ride home.

Ebe Dancel

With critically acclaimed albums, sold-out concerts, and chart-topping tracks in his pocket, Ebe Dancel is one of the top names in OPM. ICYDK, he is the voice behind Burnout, Mariposa, and Prom. I remember crying on the walk home from UP Fair because of Ebe Dancel. Yes, his music will trigger those feels. That said, my heart isn’t ready for Saturday.

Johnoy Danao

Johnoy Danao – with the acoustic guitar and vocals that alternately soar and sigh – is mostly known for the type of music you would play on a Sunday afternoon with the love of your life. Yes, I’m all about Ikaw at Ako. I’m crossing my fingers that this song, along with Buntong Hiniga, is part of his setlist.

Nica del Rosario

As a Kakampink, I’m looking forward to hearing the powerful voice behind Rosas. While songwriter Nica del Rosario’s collaboration with Leni Robredo’s 2022 presidential campaign propelled her into singing stardom, she was already an icon in the industry with her stable of hits she’s written for other artists, such as Sarah Geronimo’s Tala. Will she perform that too? I mean, she should.

Comedy and Art

Saturday’s lineup is lit with not just a bunch of side-splitting standup comedians like Victor Anastacio, Nonong Ballinan, GB Labrador, and James Caraan, but also bringing the heat are the big shots in the Philippine art scene – Manix Abrera, Rob Cham, and Pol Medina. At this point, Linya-Linya Land has everything covered. So mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare yourself for an amazing Saturday with Linya-Linya.

Tickets are available online at PHP 900 for Early Bird Regular (raffle stub and general admission) and PHP 1,700 for Early Bird VIP (general admission, raffle stub, swag bag, and limited-edition poster). Yes, walk-ins are welcome. See you there?

Continue Reading: The Round-Up: Fresh Music Picks To Listen To ASAP

Time to get lost in those tunes with new tracks courtesy of Selena Gomez, Zack Tabudlo, XG, and more.

Related: The Round-Up: These New Songs Are Calling Your Name

It’s the long weekend which means even more time to get that deserved R&R, whether it be from school, work, or what have you. And what better way to get that self-care with some music. Whether you want to surround yourself with tunes or looking for new tracks to add to your ganap soundtrack, these new tracks have got you covered.

SINGLE SOON – SELENA GOMEZ

Selena gives us this pop number made for and by the girls who are ready to hit the night out with no man.

AKO NALANG KASI – ZACK TABUDLO

If “shoot your shot” was turned into a song, it would probably sound like this six-minute anthem from Zack about convincing someone that you’re their special someone. From light instrumental, the song goes hard by its last minute with unexpected production.

USED TO BE YOUNG – MILEY CYRUS

With her vocals at the center, Miley’s latest acoustic ballad is dedicated to her fans and is all about celebrating our past, honoring our present, and looking forward to our future.

WINNER – CONAN GRAY

Conan enters power ballad territory as he calls out a toxic ex for hurting him, as well as the cathartic release of letting it all out.

NEW DANCE – XG

Not only did XG give us a new dance, they also gave us a new bop with this funky and lighthearted banger.  

ROMCOM – ROB DENIEL

You can always count on Rob Deniel to bring the vibes with his new song capturing the feels of our fave Pinoy rom-coms.

HONEYMOON AVENUE LIVE FROM LONDON – ARIANA GRANDE

While the tenth anniversary edition of Yours Truly just includes live renditions of some of the songs of the album, Ariana might as well do this for all the decade anniversaries of all her albums. Performing the original version of Honeymoon Avenue live? We know that’s right.

THE GIRLS – BLACKPINK

Sure, it’s from their official video game, but it doesn’t make it any less of a bop, especially with that hard-hitting beat.

PANGAKO – RAVEN

raven makes his promise known in a love song all about being there with that special someone.  

NO WAY JOSE – YUNG GRAVY

Yung Gravy and bbno$ serve up double the fun in their energetic collaborative album, Baby Gravy 3.

ALRIGHT – VICTORIA MONET

Catch us streaming Victoria Monet’s JAGUAR II album from front to back this long weekend.

DI NA BABALIK – LEANNE & NAARA

The vibes on this track just make you want to slow down and take it all in.

SAYAW NG MGA TALA – VIVOREE AND BENEDIX RAMOS

The emotions are felt as Vivoree and Benedix navigate through unrequited love.

PERFORMER – VANNER

Bursting with electrifying energy and a compelling narrative, VANNER’s latest release capture’s the moment of overcoming the dark times and soaring towards the bright future.

Continue Reading: The Round-Up: New Tracks Of The Week That Deserve A Play

Everything about the talented SOMI’s long-awaited comeback solidifies her place on the it-girl roster.

Related: The Round-Up: New Tracks of the Week That Deserve A Play

South Korean-Canadian K-pop idol Jeon Somi, or simply Somi, finally released a new album after two years! The singer released her new EP Game Plan on August 7 with the title track Fast Forward that’s right at home at the clubs with its British house pop sound.

And in case you didn’t know, Somi’s been an it girl since she won Produce 101 and became a member of the now-disbanded project girl group I.O.I. Since going solo, she’s steadily found both her sound and success and shown to the world that she deserves it girl status. Her most recent comeback, filled with good music, fun collaborations, and heaps of fun, is further proof. Here are just some moments during her promotions that radiated it girl energy.

VOCALS FOR DAYS

@somi_official_

IM READY 나 신나냐 혹시…

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – JEON SOMI

We all know how talented of a singer, dancer, and performer Somi is. How do you think she got first place in Produce 101? Her comebacks always feature strong vocals and anthemic choruses that will get you belting out the lyrics, too. Even when she’s rolling around in an office chair and singing for fun, her vocals ring melodious and clear as day.

SHE’S A TIKTOK QUEEN

@somi_official_ #JEONSOMI x #THEBOYZ #FastForwardChallenge #전소미 #FastForward #GAMEPLAN #JEONSOMI_GAMEPLAN_20230807 #더보이즈 #JUYEON #주연 #ERIC #에릭 #THEBLACKLABEL #더블랙레이블 @THE BOYZ ♬ Fast Forward – 전소미

If you’ve scrolled through TikTok recently, you might have come across one of Somi’s TikTok videos where she’s dancing Fast Forward with her fellow K-pop idols and co-workers in the industry. From her backup dancers to TAEYANG, aespa’s Giselle to THE BOYZ, every single one of Somi’s quick collabs are a treat to watch. The choreography, the way Somi has it down to a T, and the presence of other stars made for endless, enjoyable scrolling.

STELLAR STYLING

@somi_official_ #JEONSOMI feat. #DANCER #FastForwardChallenge #전소미 #FastForward #GAMEPLAN #JEONSOMI_GAMEPLAN_20230807 #더블랙레이블 #THEBLACKLABEL #YGX #와이지엑스 #어때 #eoddae #1MILLION #원밀리언 #커밍아웃크루 #ComingOutCrew #BabyZoo #베이비주 #이조 #Ejo #루트 #ROOT #제이미 #JAYME #킹키 #KINKY #콴즈 #QUANZ #NewMusic #PopMusic ♬ Fast Forward – 전소미

Somi’s been a style queen since forever, and the outfits, hair, and accessories for this comeback have all been nothing short of excellent. Trendy, edgy, and with a hint of girlish fun, her styling is always cohesive and well-thought-out, right down to the makeup and nail art.

SHE’S THE LIFE OF THE PARTY

SOMI AT HER RELEASE PARTY OF GAME PLAN OMGGGG pic.twitter.com/RwKus91ZYb

— hourly somi • GAME PLAN (@somihourly) August 7, 2023

Clips from Somi’s album release party got the internet joking about how K-Pop idols don’t know how to party, but clearly, she does. Somi’s always been fun and cheerful, charming and funny, and it makes sense that she would bring people together for a night of fun and celebration that got stans abuzz.

SHE LAUNCHED HER OWN TALK SHOW

Somi’s using all that charm and humor as she takes on a new role as the host of new online talk show Yes or Hot on YouTube channel TEO. In the very first episode, “Hot Girl Jeon Somi” talks to her friend, soloist, ad one of the OG baddies HyunA and they take turns asking each other spicy questions and talking about everything from the industry to their dating lives. Somi’s own version of viral YouTube series Hot Ones, the show is promising in its concept and hilarious to watch. We can’t wait to see the rest of her guest stars.

Continue Reading: How THEBLACKLABEL’s Bryan Chase is Helping Take K-Hip-Hop Global

New shows, new talent, and new stories are all available right at your fingertips!

Related: 11 Filipino Shows You Should Binge Next On Netflix

These days, you will never run out of things to watch, especially with how many streaming services you can subscribe to. But if you’re interested in branching out from your sites, you may want to turn to iWantTFC, the platform filled with local gems where you can stream local productions for free if you’re in the Philippines!

Whether you’re into drama, musicals, or coming-of-age, original Filipino programming will deliver. And if you’re into having fun (and engaging in a little drama surrounding the new generation), these following six miniseries will deliver comedy, romance, drama, and friendship in 10 episodes or less.

RUN TO ME

This rom-com sees KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad in their first series pairing as Wilson and Jewel, respectively. Wilson, a struggling musician, tries to rescue successful online creator Jewel from a kidnapping. Unfortunately, she ends up whacking him for ruining her planned kidnapping. After meeting in one of the most unlikely and ridiculous of circumstances, they accompany each other as they navigate their dreams, family lives, and blossoming romance.

LYRIC & BEAT

This tribute to Jonathan Manalo’s music is a teen rom-com set in the fictional Philippine National Conservatory of Music, where the halls are brimming with talent and the classrooms are shark tanks filled with ambitious young artists dealing with their own personal teenage problems. Lyric (Andrea Brillantes) gets the chance to attend the prestigious school, in spite of her father’s doubt and disapproval at her chosen aspirations. She meets Beat (Seth Fedelin), an introverted singer, and a whole slew of students that excel at singing, dancing, and show choir. Think Glee meets Backstage, this miniseries is fun, musical, and also brimming with talent.

DRAG YOU & ME

Andrea Brillantes also stars in this dramedy as Betty, a young cisgender woman who enters a drag competition to earn enough money to save her family home and drag bar. Fearless, fun, and fabulous, this series delves into the world of drag and the life of a young girl trying to do right by her family. With the participation of queer actors as well as actual drag queens Precious Paula Nicole, Xilhouette, Brigiding, and Viñas Deluxe, this celebration of queerness and drag makes for an entertaining watch.

TEEN CLASH

Based on a Wattpad story by Ilyn Anne Danganan, Teen Clash explores the life of Zoe (Jayda), an aspiring musician with an embarrassing past, as she attempts to start a band to perform at the school’s music jam. She meets songwriter Ice (Aljon Mendoza) and they try to overcome struggles brought upon by their musical endeavors, teen drama, and their possible feelings for one another.

BEACH BROS

Put a group of boys on a beach and watch the magic happen. No, really. Dave (Kyle Echarri), Billy (Lance Carr), Jason (Brent Manalo), Pete (Raven Rigor), and Jeremy (Sean Tristan) live their best life on the shores of Baler, Aurora, until they face the challenges of growing up and problems brought by a mysterious girl (Chie Filomeno) with secret ties and a danger-filled secret mission.

TARA, G!

Friendship and teamwork take center stage in this miniseries starring an ensemble cast of Anthony Jennings as Rocky, Kaori Oinuma as Legs, Vivoree as JengJeng, JC Alcantara as Dan, CJ Salonga as Smith, and Zach Castañeda as Will. Together, along with newcomer Cars (Daniela Stranner), a spoiled tourist trying to rehabilitate her image, they make up Team WISE (Walang Iwanan Sa Ere). Led by coffee farmer Rocky, the group works together to fight for the struggling coffee business and their town. After Cars almost ruins everything they’ve worked for, Team WISE has to depend on each other and overcome their drama to fight for that they believe in.

Continue Reading: Make Room in Your Watchlist for These New Movies and Shows of August 2023

Y.O.U Beauty blurs the line between cosmetics and skincare.

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Life’s hustle and bustle often means our self-care takes a back seat—and both beauty and skincare routines are no exception. We all know those multi-step routines can work wonders, but sticking to them religiously isn’t always a reality.

When life’s got you running from one responsibility to the next, nobody has hours for a whole 10-step skincare ritual. That said, today’s approach towards beauty shifted to skinimalism. But that doesn’t imply your skin should be compromised, right? As we dialed down routines, try to maximize the time with makeup products that has some skin-loving ingredients. Girl, imagine giving your face a double dose of TLC without the drama.

Makeup Meets Skincare with Y.O.U Beauty

When we’re slaying makeup for hours daily, let’s make every minute count for skincare too. What makes this trend of cosmetics unique isn’t added coverage or long-lasting wear, it’s the fact that they’re pulling double duty as moisturizers, protectants, and serums. Have you noticed products with extra boosts of hydration, thanks to hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica?

In the ever-evolving world of cosmetics, Y.O.U Beauty takes center stage with skincare-infused skin tints, concealer palettes, and cleansing balms. By incorporating ingredients such as Ceramides, Coconut Oil, and SPF, these products serve skin hydration, protection, and nourishment all at once.

Cloud Touch Blurring Skin Tint

Y.O.U Beauty Cloud Touch Blurring Skin Tint is a lightweight, skincare-infused, blurring liquid foundation that delivers a soft-matte finish. Formulated with Film-Forming Technology, it builds a breathable skin layer capable of locking in makeup for up to 24 hours, while providing SPF 25 PA+++ to help protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Whether you’re in for a long workday or a weekend getaway, your skin’s sun-protected.

Cloud Touch Correcting Concealer Palette

Y.O.U Beauty Cloud Touch Correcting Concealer Palette is a multi-functional cream concealer that offers two shades of color corrector and two shades of concealer. Infused with Ceramides and Centella Asiatica, this palette brings you that smooth, buildable coverage that addresses your skin’s uneven tone while showing some love with the hydration and nourishment it’s been craving.

Gentle Clean! Deep Cleansing Balm

ICYDK, coconut oil is a natural ingredient known for its moisturizing properties. It is also the main ingredient in Y.O.U Beauty Gentle Clean! Deep Cleansing Balm, which gently dissolves makeup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Don’t stress, the balm’s nourishing ingredients are suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.

Simplicity Icy Glow Lip Serum

Aside from Hyaluronic Acid, Y.O.U Beauty Simplicity Icy Glow Lip Serum contains skin-caring ingredients such as Vitamin E, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, and Sunflower Seed Oil to maintain moisture on your lips and give antioxidant benefit. Think of it as a moisture-locking squad that also brings the antioxidant A-game.

Continue Reading: School Friendly Makeup Looks Inspired By Celebrities You Didn’t Know You Needed

ENHYPEN has taste, wbk.

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Sometimes, we have those moments where we wonder whether or not our faves listen to the same music as us. You and your bias bopping along to the same tunes? Yes, please. But Filipino ENGENES don’t have to imagine that scenario or write it in AUs as ENHYPEN has listened to OPM.

The group has on occasion pressed play on some of the OPM hits that are a staple of our playlists, and even did their own covers to some of them. Not only is this yet another win for ENHYPEN’s Pinoy stans, but also another reminder that OPM is and will continue to go global. Here are those moments where the group said “stan OPM” and added another entry to the ENHYPEN Filipino-coded moments compilation.

JAY SHOWING LOVE TO YOUNG COCOA

Cool~let’s talk about it someday in manila🤟

— ENHYPEN (@ENHYPEN_members) March 11, 2022

You know what’s better than seeing your bias listen to Pinoy hip-hop? Your bias listening to Pinoy hip-hop from a young artist. Such is the case with Jay and his well-documented love for young Filipino artist Young Cocoa and his track Manila. Jay included the song in the Ami Paris XVI – Curated by ENHYPEN playlist on Spotify last year, responded to Young Cocoa on X, talked about the song a few times during his lives, and mentioned the track in previous interviews. We bet Manila is one of Jay’s top plays on Spotify. Young Cocoa x ENHYPEN collab when?

LOLA AMOUR X ENHYPEN

@packayeji i'm lwgit shaking while editing tbis #enhypen #jake #raininginmanila ♬ One and Only – ENHYPEN

Consider this the ENHYPEN, ano ba talaga tayo comments and playlist titles brought to life. Lola Amour’s Raining in Manila quickly took over the airwaves and charts following its release last June. The track even garnered attention from listeners outside the Philippines, including ENHYPEN. Heeseung, Jay, and Jake all played the Lola Amour hit on their lives while Jungwon responded to a fan on Weverse that he’d listen to the song. Jay even learned how to play the track on the guitar while Jake bopped to it on two separate occasions. And if that wasn’t enough, Jake also listened to another viral Lola Amour track, Fallen, during that livestream. And speaking of…

JAKE’S OPM LIVE

@luvsunghooon Jake, vibing and liking "YK" by Cean Jr! The pambansang au song! 🎶💓 #ENHYPEN #JAKE #fyp ♬ YK – Cean Jr.

Technically, this Jake live from early August was just him playing some of his favorite songs as well as recommendations from ENGENE. But it might as well have been a Spotify Philippines Top 50 listening party with the way he listened to not one, but four OPM songs. First, he listened to Lola Amour’s Raining in Manila and Fallen. Then, he played the AU national anthem, aka YK by Cean Jr. And finally, Jake showed some love to Shoti’s LDR.

HEESEUNG’S GIVE ME YOUR FOREVER COVER

@enhypen Surprise Present for ENGENE! 🎁 #ENHYPEN #HEESEUNG ♬ Give Me Your Forever – Zack Tabudlo

Once again, Heeseung continues to flex his Pinoy blood. This time, it was through this short yet sweet cover of Zack Tabudlo’s Give Me Your Forever that left Pinoy ENGENES shook. A surprise present indeed from Ethan Batumbakal. Don’t be shy Heeseung, drop the full cover.

Which OPM song recommended by ENHYPEN is your favorite? Vote for your pick below!

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

When Johnny Orlando first came to the Philippines last year, he had an unforgettable time. And he’s looking to repeat that magic this November.

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Traveling to a country for the first time is always exciting. The anticipation of the new adventures, experiences, and not to mention people as you step into a new country is palpable. You just never know what awaits you. So, when Johnny Orlando touched down in the Philippines last year, he was in for a treat with his first trip to the country. Mall shows filled with his adoring fans, becoming besties with Zack Tabudlo (and getting tattoos together), and getting an up-close view of Filipino culture awaited the young musician.

Needless to say, he had a great first impression of the country. And this 2023, Johnny makes his return as he brings his The Ride Tour to Manila on November 20 at The Filinvest Tent. As his first full show in the country, it’s a moment Johnny’s Filipino fans have been waiting for, not to mention the artist himself. “I’m expecting even more fun this time with the whole tour,” he enthusiastically shares. Ahead of his show later this year, we got the chance to catch up with Johnny as he shared his Manila memories, being friends with Zack Tabudlo, and more.

How does it feel to be traveling back to the Philippines again? 

I had an absolutely amazing time [in the Philippines] last year. So I’m very excited. I was watching the videos from the last time we were in Manila, and I need to do that again. So I’m happy that we’re going back.

Are there any memories from your last visit to the country that stick out to you? 

I remember all of it. I got a matching tattoo with Zack [Tabudlo]. And we did a mall show together, which was really cool. I rarely get to do those. We went out for dinner, and we went bowling with Universal Music Philippines and a bunch of artists and influencers. I got to try some traditional food, and I just had a great time and experience. It was just so cool to be able to actually talk to my Filipino fans and meet people. I met people who run like big fan pages that have been grinding for years. I’m expecting even more fun this time with the whole tour.

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A post shared by Zack Tabudlo (@zack.tabudlo)

When you were in the Philippines, you met and quickly became friends with Zack Tabudlo. How did you meet him, and how did your friendship start? 

It was a business thing at first, which is actually how I’ve made a lot of my friends it seems. We were gonna film a couple of videos and do this joint show together. And then I met Zack, and we got to talk. And I was like, ‘Wow, this dude is cool.’ We were talking about life, music, relationships, growing up, and being in the public eye. He’s a great kid, so grounded, so levelheaded. Great artist as well, of course.

So is it safe to say then that when you come back to the Philippines this November for the concert, we’ll see you and Zack share the stage? 

Well, of course, I would love that, if schedules permit. But Zack is a very busy boy. And he’s flying all over the place all the time. So we’ll see.

You’re return to the Philippines later this year is just part of a wider tour taking you all over the world. With that being said, how do you manage that balance between performing on stage in different cities then just being in your hotel room? 

I guess show day for sure it takes a lot out of you. But you also kind of just rise to the occasion of whatever you’re doing. Like, four shows in a row seemed inconceivable at one point in my career, but, you know that’s what you have to do. You can really do anything as long as you go to sleep. And just get up and back. Get eight hours and you’re fine.

In between shows, what do you like to do in your free time? 

That depends if I have a show the next day. If yes, I stay in bed. If not, I love to explore a city and go out with my bandmates to see what the area has to offer. I love talking to people, specifically those who have no idea who I am, I’m just down to chat. Like, I love talking to Uber drivers. I don’t even know how many times I’ve gotten an Uber and then we’ve just chatted in the car or they come to a bar with me or something. I love talking to people who have a completely different life experience than me. 

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A post shared by johnny (@johnnyorlando)

As an artist, where do you think is the best place to stay at a concert? 

That’s very much a preference. The size of venues that I play, you can kind of go anywhere and you’ll still have a good show. I personally like being in the thick of things. I love dancing. I love other people dancing around. I love feeding off of other people’s energy. 

What message do you have for your Filipino fans?

To my Filipino fans, I am coming. I will be there soon with new music and a ton of energy, and I’m very excited. And the show is on November 20. I want to see all of you guys there.

Johnny Orlando’s The Ride Tour in Manila is presented by Live Nation Philippines. Get your tickets now to his show at The Filinvest Tent on November 20 here. 

Continue Reading: 6 Times Zack Tabudlo Rubbed Shoulders With International Musicians

A love story from the working class, Third World Romance is a bleak yet hopeful take on finding love in the simplest of things.

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Mild spoilers for Third World Romance ahead.

Love is the most common theme you’d find in Philippine cinema. As early as the dawn of the Philippine entertainment industry, love stories have been part of the content Filipinos have consumed. There’s no denying the power of a good love story. But in as much as love can come in many forms, so too can it be found in all sorts of places. And that is at the heart of Dwein Baltazar’s Third World Romance as it delves into love in blue-collar life in the Philippines.

The film centers on Britney (Charlie Dizon), a young and outspoken woman desperate for a job to fund the return ticket of her mom from Oman to the Philippines. Luck finds Britney when she comes across Alvin (Carlo Aquino), a laidback grocery store bagger who helps Britney get a job as a cashier at the grocery he works at. The two eventually fall in love, but they soon realize that their paycheck-to-paycheck life may not be the most ideal setting for their love story.

In a sea of major international releases in cinema currently, Third World Romance is a Filipino movie that’s worth supporting with its funny, emotional, and poignant take on romance in a developing nation. We break down just a few reasons why you should give this gem a chance.

IT’S A LOVE STORY SET IN THE WORKING CLASS

As the title suggests, Third World Romance is a love story set in the working class. And right off the bat, the film doesn’t hesitate to depict Britney and Alvin’s hard-scrabble lives. From worrying about paying bills to asking for an extra shift to pay off debts, Britney and Alvin worry about the same things many Filipinos go through daily. The two lead stars aren’t idealists in a sense, but two people who move based on what is needed of them at the moment, especially for Britney.

One of the most poignant scenes to show this is when Britney chases Alvin around the grocery store as she explains that she did what she did because she needed to keep her job. She had to act based on her basic needs because she doesn’t always have the luxury and privilege to follow her heart when her livelihood is on the line. Sure, it’s a rom-com at the end of the day, but one that adds tweaks to the formula. This all gives the movie a unique and maybe even needed perspective on the depiction of love in a genre that often sticks to having its leads in the middle to higher class.

But it’s not all doom and gloom as Third World Romance also imbues its story with heart and a sense of hope. Alvin and Britney just want to be happy, and they find joy in those little things that mean much to them. The movie also ends on a hopeful note and avoids the trap of becoming poverty porn. Despite how hard life is, you still can find happiness in life. Love isn’t just limited to a romantic partner, it can also be felt through family and community. There’s optimism to be found, no matter what shape it may take.   

DWEIN BALTAZAR DID IT AGAIN  

With projects such as Gusto Kita With All My Hypothalamus and Oda Sa Wala under her belt, Dwein Baltazar has established herself as one of the most talented directors and writers working in the industry today. And her work on Third World Romance is no exception. From one takes, shot composition, camera movement, and more, there’s confidence in the direction of the movie. The scenes set in the grocery in particular stand out as some of the best parts of the movie. Technically and story-wise, the movie works and works well. Visually and narratively, the film doesn’t bog itself down and moves at a brisque pace as we continue to explore Britney and Alvin’s relationship.   

THE MOVIE ISN’T AFRAID TO GET REAL

It was to be expected that Third World Romance would center itself on the lives of the working class. But it should also be commended how the film isn’t afraid to go there in terms of touching on the realities faced by millions of Filipinos. From the opening scene set during the onset of the pandemic, which sees Alvin and Britney taking government ayuda to common workers taking the blame for the mistakes of the upper class, and employees fighting for better wages against a greedy boss, the movie goes there. Britney, in particular, isn’t blind to the realities of how unfair and one-sided the system is for people like her.

Yet, all of this doesn’t come off as preachy or forced and instead builds a world that runs on what we see out there. It grounds the film in reality and helps further the idea that the BS of life does get in the way of love. And props as well as how the film portrayed the families of the two leads, from Britney being raised by a single mom to Alvin’s lovingly queer family who aren’t forced to act to get cheap laughs. While this isn’t the main gist of the movie, it’s nice to see more local media move away from the depiction of the nuclear Filipino family to a more open and diverse representation.

THE ACTING IS *CHEF’S KISS*

If Dwein Baltazar leads Third World Romance with her deft direction and writing (as well as co-writer Jeko Aguado), Carlo Aquino and Charlie Dizon bring that magic to life. Carlo continues to be a reliable presence on screen, but it’s the latter in particular who shines with her dynamic performance. Charlie embodies the hope, desperation, frustration, and tenacity of a young woman, who, at the end of the day, just wants a better life for herself. There’s a beautiful messiness Charlie brings to Britney.

The film would not hit as hard as it does if it weren’t for the magnetism and natural charm Charlie and Carlo bring to the screen. They shift from jovial optimism to quieter moments of silence as they deal with the dehumanizing conditions they are faced with. And of course, it does help that these two are a couple in real life.

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Don’t we all wish we could’ve done some things differently?

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In all honesty, I think my 18-year-old self should give me some advice. She still has some light in her eyes. I truly embody the Taylor Swift lyric “How can a person know everything at 18 but nothing at 22?” and I wonder what my 18-year-old self would think of me now. But with time comes learning, and while past is past, I still wish I could reassure my younger self that everything would be alright.

At 18 I was on my last year of high school, about to enter my dream program at my dream university, so excited at all the new that was about to happen.

Well, all this “new” came at me like a truck. To be fair, a pandemic was new. It was just the opposite of exciting. And after my first low grades and a rejection that truly, unfortunately, shaped my entire college life, I was henceforth sick and afraid of the new. But here I am, looking back, changed by time like water smoothing stone, hoping everything I learned could help someone else.

SO, TO MY 18-YEAR-OLD SELF:

Resist the urge to underestimate yourself, but keep the humility.

First things first—you’re going to think you peaked in high school. And that’s kinda not true. Kidding aside, college is a shark tank of all the smartest, most ambitious sharks that want the same things you do. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, to think you can get swallowed up by all the doubt and shrink into yourself, believing that there’s no space for you to explore and pursue your dreams. But don’t.

You’re where you are because you, and other people, had faith in your ability and your promise. So keep that faith locked in. There’s enough space in the world for you to learn, to chase your own dreams, and to do what you love.

You can’t give up the moment it gets hard. You can handle more than you think you can.

Speaking of underestimating yourself, I’ve always been so guilty of simply passing over opportunities because I think I can’t do it. Or that it’s not “worth it.” I’ve said “okay na yan” more times than I can count. I lower the bar because I’m afraid of pushing myself to the limit only to fail. But I know that you can’t see the view from the top of a mountain without making the climb.

And I don’t tend to regret many things, but looking back, I know I was too complacent and never pushed myself or my work to its best. Unfortunately, I find that I still do that sometimes. But we work through it. You power through the anxiety and the fear of failure, and you’ll strike gold.

Open yourself up to the possibility of enjoying and learning from new experiences.

Some of my favorite classes were electives that I took because I was drawn to it, despite the potential of a bad grade, or classes I thought were unnecessary. Some of my lowest grades were in those kinds of classes, too! But I found that the learning was worth any bad grade. Also, some of my favorite experiences in student organizations were in positions I didn’t even think I qualified for.

I learned so much from those classes and org experiences, and not just about the lessons and the kind of work I did, but about myself and all the possibilities I had in front of me. How would I feel if didn’t let myself be open to the possibility that an experience, while presumably out of my comfort zone, could be great for me? I’ll have spent so much time wondering what if or being ignorant about something that could help me understand myself and the world I wanted to partake in.

Surround yourself with good people, and be the kind of good people you want to be surrounded by.

My thesis partner, whom I knew since freshman year, once said to me that they regretted that we only became close during our final year, and while the pandemic (and unfortunate circumstances at the time) did fracture newly-formed friendships, I was lucky to have found friends that will stick with me long-term. I don’t have to tell you to be a good person or a good friend, but you do have to choose friends wisely and with an open mind.

“Time goes fast. Eat it up, but chew slowly.” – Emily Wickersham

This is a shot of the driveway I got lost in the very first time I stepped on campus—the same driveway I spent about 20 minutes in every day both my freshman and senior year before going home. I don’t think it changed much, but I definitely have.

Four years of college went by just like that, and I’ll always feel a sense of resentment at having a full experience ripped away from me. But what the last few years have taught me is that you just have to take life day by day, moment by moment. Life changes and we grow old fast. Before you know it, you’ve graduated and you’re thinking about all the regrets you have and all the things you should have done and writing about them like you’re a 60-year-old with all the wisdom in the world. Regardless, while “make the most of what little time you have” is generic and clichéd, it’s always sound advice.

In all honesty, all that this sentimentality leaves way for is me wishing I knew better before. But the important thing is, I know better now. And hopefully, you do, too.

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The time has come. Bobs, pixie cuts, and bangs galore. It’s that part of the hair trend cycle again where people are doing the Big Chop, and we are here for it.

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The time has come. It’s that part of the hair trend cycle again where people are doing the Big Chop, and honestly, we’re living for it. Allure predicted that nostalgic, short hair styles are going to make a splash in 2023, and so far, they’re right. Bobs, wolf cuts, pixies, short bangs, and more are making the rounds in style these days, and maybe you’re thinking you should follow suit?

@keeleydelaneey your honor.. your honor shes slaying! no but really I think this is the best hair style ever had!!!!🥹🌈 #hair #haircut #shorthair #shoulderlengthhair #chop #bob #boston #safar #hairstyle ♬ glow up challenge – spencer 💅

RESTART, REFRESH, REVAMP

You don’t have to be going through it to feel an urge to cut your hair, but it has been proven to signify a certain change in one’s life. Whether it’s because of a breakup (Venus retrograde has been especially unkind, to celebrities at least) or simply wanting to spice up your look as you go through a lull in your life, sometimes a chop is just what you need. Check out Zendaya, for example, who rocks every hairstyle, but also posted that she “needed a little refresh.”

Zendaya/Instagram

Hair is tied to choice and agency, identity, and even culture. The freedom to do what we want with our hair is intrinsically linked to who we are. No wonder many people are loving their short hair—and as well as those who cry after regretting their new cut!

A hilarious scene in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag delves into what hair means to women, and it strikes a balance between being commentary on beauty standards and femininity, and being a reminder that hair doesn’t change lives as drastically as we wish it would.

But a chop could still affect our lives, give us confidence, and express our personalities and creativities. Whatever your decisions may be, hopefully it’s made with much thought and consideration.

TO CHOP OR NOT TO CHOP

If you do decide to chop, there’s plenty of styles you can experiment with. Aside from Zendaya’s voluminous layered, Rachel Green-esque hairdo, recent new celebrity chops include Kim Kardashian’s sleek bob (or FAB, depending on who you ask), Yujin of IVE’s cute bob with bangs, and Keke’s edgy, tousled ‘do. You can keep a “short” haircut still pretty long, or go wild with pixie cuts, bangs, color, and the like.

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Taylor Swift announcing 1989 (Taylor’s Version) actually precedes some of these chops. Inspired by her short hair era in 2014 to 2016, people are chopping their hair off to signify their own new era beginning. It also ties back to the notion of agency—agency in taking control, agency in cutting hair, agency in Taylor’s reclamation of her discography. While Taylor herself has not returned to a short ‘do, it just goes to show that people place a lot of meaning in hair, haircuts, and hairstyles.

@.ashley.kay in my 1989 era 🩵 #haircut #hairtransformation #swifttok #taylorswift #1989taylorsversion #1989 ♬ son original – 𝘼( Taylor’s version )

Other precedents to cutting hair could be stress, anxiety, or a need to feel in control. When emotions run high, sometimes we take it out on our hair. It could end up being a good distraction, or even an act of liberation. But essentially, before you give in to the universal urge to chop your hair, you have to consider at least a few things: why you’re doing it, what do you want out of it, and how would you feel once it’s done?

And while your personal decisions shouldn’t really be contingent on what’s trendy or how stressed you feel at a certain point in time, it’s always good to try new things. Be sure to not jump into things without any thought unless that’s what you really want to do. Ask the right questions and plan the right execution. Hair may not be everything, but it definitely means something.

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