BINI’s Maloi radiates an angelic, calm, and gentle energy, with makeup looks you can replicate to embrace this aura.

Related: All the Reasons Why BINI’s Mikha Lim Is A Total Textbook Scorpio

The topic of Dark Feminine vs Light Feminine energy has been quite the hot topic on social media, especially over on TikTok. Today, we’re diving into the latter—the women who are perceived as angelic, innocent, and light-hearted. Then again, it’s an aesthetic that’s taking center stage in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content.

While scrolling through these platforms, you may notice certain celebrities embodying a sense of confidence and self-assuredness, radiating an aura of strength while challenging the boundaries of conventional femininity. It’s evident when they possess a distinctively dark energy or exude a living light. If you can’t picture it, take a glance at Maloi Ricalde of the girl group BINI. She carries this calm, caring, and gentle look within her, and then there are her hair and makeup looks that you can replicate if you’re longing for this aura. Scroll through to see what I mean.

All About Glowing Skin

Maloi’s makeup looks revolve around achieving a natural and radiant glow. If you’re aiming for a light, feminine aura, luminous skin starts with a flawless base. Don’t worry; it doesn’t always have to be au naturel. This BINI member’s makeup is achievable with minimal foundation and a focus on skincare, accentuating your true complexion and facial features. To achieve that final fleck of glimmer, strategically highlight the high points of the face, creating a subtle sheen.

A Petal Pink Flush

Radiating positivity, Maloi keeps things fun with a playful pink flush. Whether she’s on stage or off-duty, this pop brings all the energy to her face, focusing on her smile and warmth. Remember, every light look is all about the blush. Without darker shades for definition, it boils down to the blush in bringing back life to the face. This choice adds a touch of youthful exuberance to the look, enhancing facial features with a cheerful color.

Bright and Big Eyes

An adorable characteristic of light feminine energy is having bright and big eyes. For Maloi, her eyes serve as a canvas for expression, often adorned with glimmers and a gentle swipe of eyeliner. She embraces eyeshadow colors that enhance her natural beauty—shimmery silvers, soft pinks, or even light browns—accentuating her gaze and adding depth. With carefully curated lashes, her eyes become a focal point, drawing attention with that captivating doe-eyed look.

Good Dose of Gloss

These photos prove that a glossy look is a go-to in Maloi’s makeup repertoire. Whether it’s a subtle sheen or a high-shine lip gloss, her dedication to the look resonates with the essence of feminine radiance. With shades ranging from petal pinks to rosy reds, it not only adds a certain charm but also complements her energy.

Signature Style and Accessories

Most of the time, the light feminine energy look also serves as a signature ‘accessory’. To complete hers, Maloi incorporates ribbons into her hairstyle. This whimsical addition adds a touch of femininity and grace, enhancing her ensemble with a playful element. Whether woven into braids or tied as a bow, these ribbons mirror her style—charming, dainty, and full of life.

Continue Reading: 9 Times When BINI Sheena Flexed Her Killer Moves

Winning in 2023 isn’t enough for Dolly de Leon—she’s just getting started. Here’s what’s in store for the acclaimed actress in the upcoming year.

Related: 5 Secrets We Learned From The Cast Of A Very Good Girl

Since the start of 2023, Dolly de Leon has been having a much-deserved career renaissance with the way she’s been dominating headlines. Among other achievements, her scene-stealing performances in A Very Good Girl and Triangle of Sadness, coupled with numerous nominations and awards, make it clear how much she deserves all the recognition. If you’ve yet to experience these cinematic masterpieces, you’re missing out on witnessing an acting virtuoso in action. So, what’s next on her horizon? Hollywood.

Dolly de Leon’s momentum is still going strong as her 2024 calendar is already bustling with activity. Her name is increasingly linked with Hollywood, and her drive shows no signs of slowing down—rather, it’s just beginning. With promising projects in the making, De Leon is poised to make a lasting impression on the entertainment industry in the year ahead. Fans and critics eagerly anticipate the unveiling of her new endeavors, expecting another spellbinding chapter in the illustrious career of this talented actress. Here’s what we know so far.

Oscar Hopes For ‘Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing)’

Before we delve deep into 2024, let’s discuss Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing). This year, the animated movie that clinched the Best Film award at the 2023 Cinemalaya Philippine Film Festival has been submitted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards. The movie has been met with critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and animation. Some insiders have even tipped the film to potentially become the first Filipino movie nominated for an Oscar. But its journey to the Academy Awards needs support, especially when it comes to raising funds for its promotion.

According to Dolly de Leon, “We need at least P6 million. Kasi ang fee pa lamang ng PR person is US$20,000. Kasi yung PR sila lahat ang gumagawa ng trabaho. Sila ang humahawak ng schedule ng interview, screenings, booking restaurant. So malaking pera talaga ang kailangan. Balita ko marami na rin ang tumutulong. We’re doing a lot of activities to make sure it takes off. It has to happen soon because by the middle of December, sarado na ang voting. I believe the movie needs to be seen by many people.” Fingers crossed it gets the nomination.

She’s Now Signed to a Management Company

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A post shared by CreaZion Studios (@thecreazionstudios)

After decades of managing her own bookings, endorsements, and all work-related roles, Dolly de Leon is finally signed to a management company—CreaZion Studios. For the award-winning actress, with no shade whatsoever, it has been the only studio that made her feel like it was a collaboration.

“We have the same values. We love Philippine cinema. We were very alike in so many ways. Dahil doon, I realize that it can be a good partnership. It’s something that I need to stir me. Wala naman kasi akong alam sa side na yun ng industriya. Alam ko lang umarte. They are experts when it comes to that side that I’m not and I’m not familiar with,” she says.

While she’s still managed by Adam Kersh in Hollywood, all of her works in the Philippines will be handled by CreaZion Studios, and both parties couldn’t be prouder.

Nine Perfect Strangers

Next year, her first order of business is flying to Germany. Shooting in Munich for six months, Dolly is scheduled to portray one of Nicole Kidman’s patients in Nine Perfect Strangers. As the name suggests, the plot revolves around nine strangers who attend a 10-day wellness retreat at a luxurious and secluded health resort called Tranquillum House. Run by a mysterious woman named Masha, the retreat promises transformation and healing. The twist, however? Masha microdoses her patients with LSD. If you’ve seen the first season on HULU, you can tell that it’s another interesting role for the Dolly de Leon.

When asked about her expectations in working with the Oscar winner, she answers, “Balita ko method actor daw siya. Hindi ko lang sure masyado kung makakapag-bond kami because sa method acting lagi silang in-character. I’m also excited to work with Murray Bartlett na sobrang napakahusay na aktor. Siya yung sa ‘The Last of Us‘ and ‘The White Lotus‘. Marami kaminn scenes together ni Murray dahil yung character niya at character ko magiging close.” To say the least, more Filipino fans will be binge-watching the series.

In-Between America and the Philippines

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A post shared by Dolly de Leon (@dollyedeleon)

While Dolly is booked and busy in the first six months of the year, what’s next for her in the Philippines? At the moment the actress is in between scripts and hoping one of them works out. Don’t worry, Dolly de Leon is coming back sooner than we’ll realize. For the actress, she has still a lot of directors and artists in her ‘to work with’ list. “Marami pa rin directors dito sa Pilipinas na hindi ko pa nakaka trabaho na gusto kong ma-experience. And because I love our industry here I want to be a part of that change that is currently happening in our industry. I want to make it possible,” she said.

When asked about the local stars she would love to collaborate with in the future, Dolly answered: “I want to work with Mikhail Red, and Raymond Red. Gusto ko makatrabaho lahat ng Red. Pati si James Red. Nakatrabaho ko na siya sa isang soap dati.’ While that gained a good laugh from the audience, on a more serious note, Dolly wants to work with Jodi Sta. Maria, Jericho Rosales, and Vilma Santos. “Kapag may nagtanong bakit hindi ko binaggit si ganito? Ibig sabihin naka-trabaho ko na siya.” she continues.

Next Stop: Dollywood

With the success of A Very Good Girl and Triangle of Sadness, it seems like her next stop really is Dollywood. At the moment, she’s set to star in a film described as ‘an anxious comedy.’ Between the Temples, a new film from writer and director Nathan Silver, tells the story of a cantor who is locked in a crisis of faith and finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher re-enters his life as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student. The supporting cast? None other than Dolly de Leon.

To top it all off, she reveals working alongside Awkwafina and John Cena in an action-comedy film set in the future decades of Hollywood. Grand Death Lotto is the new film from Paul Feig with an interesting plot—a competition known as ‘the Grand Lottery’ has been established in ‘economically challenged’ California. There’s a catch: You must murder the winner before sundown and you can legally claim their prize. One twisty project after another, if 2023 is the rise of Dolly de Leon, she has no plans of stopping soon, and we can only wish for more.

Continue Reading: 6 Dolly De Leon Fashion Moments That Prove She Can Wear Anything And Look Good

These queens are giving multi-winners circle.

Related: 6 Beauty Queens That Prove Tattoos Are Not Unladylike

Winning one beauty pageant is hard enough, but winning multiple, now that’s a feat. While some might think that beauty pageants are just meant for you to stand and look pretty, it requires skill, talent, and personality to make it to the very end. And those are traits that a handful of queens have shown, multiple times. Not only can these queens proudly flex their multiple winning crowns, but also how their achievements have gotten them written in pageant history books. After all, why win one major beauty pageant when you can win multiple? Check out these multi-talented queens below.

NIKKI DE MOURA

INSTAGRAM/NIKKI_DE_MOURA

At just 20 years old, Nikki is showing the world that she is a rising force in the pageant world to watch out for. The Filipino-Brazilian has multiple title wins to her name, such as Miss Governor’s Cup South 2018 and Miss Teen Philippines 2019. Most notably, she was named the country’s representative to Miss Grand International 2023, where, despite not making it to the end, she impressed netizens and had us feeling that we’re going to see a lot more of her in the future.

CATRIONA GRAY

INSTAGRAM/CATRIONA_GRAY

A lot can happen in two years. Just look at Catriona Gray. In 2016, she was named Miss World Philippines. And while she didn’t win Miss World, history was waiting for her after she became Miss Universe Philippines 2018 and soon became the country’s fourth Miss Universe titleholder.

CARLENE AGUILAR

Pageant OGs know the history of Carlene’s achievements. In 2001, she was crowned Miss Philippines Earth and proudly represented the country at the global competition, where she reached the Top 10. But she still had the fire in her as in 2005, she was crowned Binibining Pilipinas-World 2005 and repped the country at Miss World, where she finished as a semi-finalist. With that, Carlene made history as the first woman to represent the Philippines in two major international pageant competitions.

MICHELLE DEE

INSTAGRAM/MICHELLEDEE

MMD’s years-long journey in the pageant world includes multiple Ws. She won Miss World Philippines 2019 and ended her run at Miss World 2019 in the Top 12. After clinching first runner-up in Miss Universe Philippines 2022, Michelle came back strong in 2023 and won the crown of Miss Universe Philippines, where she would go on to leave a lasting mark at Miss Universe 2023 and finish in the Top 10.

MAUREEN MONTAGNE

INSTAGRAM/MAUREENMONTAGNE

Let Maureen give you a crash course on winning multiple international titles in just a few years. She was crowned Miss Eco Philippines 2018, where she then proceeded to take first runner-up to Peru’s Suheyn Cipriani at Miss Eco International 2019. However, Suheyn was disqualified, and therefore, as first runner-up, Maureen was given the title. Then, in 2021, she was named Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2021 and the country’s representative at The Miss Globe 2021, an international pageant she would go on to win.

PIA WURTZBACH

INSTAGRAM/PIAWURTZBACH

They say that the third time’s the charm, and that proved to be true for Pia. During her third try at Binibining Pilipinas, she was named Binibing Pilipinas Universe 2015 and would go on to become Miss Universe 2015.

CELESTE CORTESI

INSTAGRAM/CELESTE_CORTESI

From the earth to the universe, beauty queen and burgeoning actress Celeste Cortesi has done it all. She won the Miss Earth Philippines pageant in 2018 and finished in the Top 8 at Miss Earth 2018. She came back stronger in 2022 by winning Miss Universe Philippines that year and proudly represented the country at Miss Universe 2022.

KYLIE VERZOSA

INSTAGRAM/KYLIEVERZOSA

Believe it or not, when Kylie first joined Binibining Pilipinas in 2015, she didn’t make it to the finals. But her time came a year later when she was crowned Binibining Pilipinas International 2016. Representing the country in Japan at that year’s tilt, she bagged the win, thus becoming the 6th Filipina to be Miss International.

KATARINA RODRIGUEZ

INSTAGRAM/KATARINARODRI

2017 was a great year for Katarina Rodriguez as she became Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental and placed 1st runner-up at Miss Intercontinental 2017. Her streak would continue just a year later when she was crowned Miss World Philippines 2018.

ROBERTA TAMONDONG

INSTAGRAM/ROBERTA.TAMONDONG

Not only does Roberta Tamondong have multiple titles to her name, but she also made history in the process. In 2020, she was appointed as the country’s representative to Miss Eco Teen International, a pageant she would later win, thus making her the first Filipino to win that title. In 2022, she competed in Binibining Pilipinas, where she was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2022. Initially, she ended her run at Miss Grand International 2022 in the Top 20 but was later appointed as one of the 5th Runners-Up after Yuvna Rinishta of Mauritius resigned from the organization.

CHRISTI MCGARRY

INSTAGRAM/CHRISTI.MCGARRY

Christi McGarry has her name in history books as the first Filipina to represent the Philippines in the same international pageant twice. After being named Mutya ng Pilipinas Asia Pacific 2010, she represented the country at Miss Intercontinental 2010, placing in the Top 15. She then came back with a vengeance and won Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2015 and finished as first runner-up at the 2015 edition of Miss Intercontinental.

Continue Reading: 10 Beauty Queens You May Have Spotted In Local Fantaseryes And Movies

Depression looks differently on different people, and it’s something I learned the hard way as someone who has always tried to be “the strong one.”

Related: Mental Health Services You Can Avail Of

Disclaimer: The following story is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional.

I’m no stranger to taking care of my mental health, as it’s something that I’ve spent the last years nurturing through meditation practices, consistent exercise, a strong sense of community, and even professional help. A peek through my Youtube watch history would show a list of productivity vlogs, online yoga classes, and TED talks. Ask any of my friends and I’m confident a lot of them would say I’m a pretty upbeat, happy person. And even when life has gotten rough in the past, I’ve always been proactive about finding the silver lining through meticulous planning and a sprinkle of optimism.

So you can imagine my surprise when at the peak of my young career, armed with the stability of satisfactory adulthood, I found myself diagnosed with depression again. It came as a shock because my current situation is a far cry from my first diagnosis, when I was unemployed, broke, and stuck in lockdown limbo. Back then, I thought that all the uncertainty and the general state of the world justified my relentless sadness. Obviously, I told myself, it just made sense. But now? What right did I have to feel this way?

What Is Depression?

According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression is a “common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act… Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.”

Contrary to what I used to believe, depression is not solely affected or caused by one’s experiences. Other than environmental factors, there are also biochemistry, genetics, and personality. So if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. After all, we can’t treat what we don’t know.

That being said, here are some signs of depression I totally missed until my psychiatrist (and other people) pointed them out:

Excessive Sleep

For months, I had blamed my schedule and busy lifestyle for my excessive naps. I thought I was just working myself to the bone like most people my age. But after I had missed two consecutive appointments with my doctor, I realized this was more than the usual case of fatigue. Even my sister had noticed it. “You’ve been sleeping too much. It’s kinda alarming,” she mentioned one time, after I had woken up from another 5-hour nap, multiple days in a row. I remember how I would only wake up to have brunch and go straight back to sleep because I physically could not function.

When I realized what was becoming a really bad habit, I started deliberately finding activities to keep me going through the day. I started surrounding myself with people because I knew that being alone would lead me back to the -same cycle of late nights, late mornings, depressing afternoons, and seemingly endless days of emptiness.

Isolation

As an extrovert, my self-isolation should have been another glaring sign for me, but because of my own denial, I had waved it off. For weeks at a time, I would stay alone at my condo, only going out for extremely important events and appointments. I refused to walk to the nearby restaurants or grocery stores for food, and instead had everything delivered to me. My family only lived 40 minutes away, but I would make excuses not to go home and visit on the weekends.

In hindsight, I realize now that I was avoiding my loved ones because I did not want to bother them with my disposition. Once, I even told a friend, “I feel like I have no use if I’m not my usual bubbly self.” Which, of course, I now know to be false. I’ve since started spending more days at our family home, and I’ve learned to depend on them once again for emotional support. It was surprisingly liberating.

Losing A Sense Of Purpose

I’ve lived my whole life as a goal-oriented person, and even at rock bottom, I knew there was always something to strive for. From breakups to failed business ventures, there was a fire in me that never really got put out even at the face of challenges. I would argue that these past instances have even propelled me forward. So what was different this time around?

When I looked at my life objectively, I knew that, in theory, I should be okay. Past evidence tell me that I’ve gone through worse, and therefore, I should be fine… right? But there is no negotiating with depression, I learned. Even when I could point out all the great things around me, a debilitating lack of purpose lingered. To paint you a picture, I would wake up long after the sun has risen and lay in bed for two more hours, fully convinced there was nothing in the world that needed me or my attention. None of my old goals that used to excite me feel the same, and even as a chronic planner, I could no longer tell anyone what I wanted my future to look like.

What To Do If You Feel This Way

If these signs feel familiar to you, please seek professional help. Sometimes, it really is the best way forward especially when our feelings of depression get overwhelming. You can start with this list of mental health services and centers.

Other than that, what truly helped me was seeking out emotional support from family and friends. I know that vulnerability can feel uncomfortable, especially for those of us who are so used to being the “happy friend” or the “strong one.” But whoever said that no man is an island was absolutely right, and allowing people to be there for us in times of need can be life-saving and life-changing.

Sleeping in, isolating, and giving up may feel like the most natural things in the world when you’re dealing with depression, but from one survivor to another, let me tell you that better days, when you keep going, are just around the corner.

Continue reading: 8 Stars Who Bravely Opened Up About Seeking Help For Their Mental Health

With the release of her new EP Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1), Denise Julia is taking the music scene by storm. Here’s why you should start stanning!

Related: Independent Singer-Songwriter Denise Julia Is Ready For A New Era Of Love And Music

About a month ago, we said that Denise Julia was ready for a new era—but were you? The independent singer-songwriter dropped her first album, EP Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1), and took over the nation with her catchy music and her vibrant personality. As of late, the talented young artist’s gained over 3 million monthly Spotify listeners and plenty of new fans.

The young musician is making waves, and from the lead-up to her album up until after its release, Denise has been proving she’s superstar material. With superb talent, vocals for days, commitment to her craft, and an it-girl disposition, she’s just growing more and more iconic. She’s in her Denise Julia era, as we should all be, whether we’re at the club or in our room. So, if you’re not stanning her yet, let these reasons convince you.

SHE MAKES GREAT MUSIC

Denise Julia’s music is full of catchy, baddie anthems that touch on romance, empowerment, sensuality, and self-confidence. Her voice is stellar, her production is exquisite, and the music is a vibe—authentic, soulful, and inspired. And honestly, that’s reason enough to stan.

SHE’S A GROUNDBREAKING CHART-TOPPER

Denise Julia’s been breaking records since her viral single NVMD, and with Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1), the artist’s reached new heights as she’s become the top streamed female OPM artist on Spotify Daily PH chart for four consecutive days as of writing and the only Filipina currently in the Top 10 of the Apple Music PH Chart. These are just a couple of her achievements among many, and for sure there’s more to come.

SHE’S THE PATRON SAINT OF SITUATIONSHIPS

@nylonmanila The Patron Saint of Situationships aka @denise julia ♬ original sound – NYLON Manila

Whether you want to get into or get out of a situationship, trust Saint Denise Julia to guide you towards the right direction.

SHE’S A VIRAL QUEEN

the philippines are taking it pic.twitter.com/kirVIfiPGu

— 갈로르 (@gvlores) November 19, 2023

The past week’s been a busy one for the young artist. From her album launch party to her B.A.D dance challenge going viral on social media platforms, earning millions of views, she’s steadily been gaining more and more popularity. She and her team have been able to harness the power of social media to spread the word about her talent and her music, and it’s paying off. TBH, her marketing efforts are some of the best in the industry.

SHE AND HER TEAM ARE HARDWORKING AF

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A post shared by Carissa King (@_carissaking)

Speaking of she and her team, Denise Julia and her friends and teammates are perennially hard at work, always hands-on whether its for promotions or an album launch party. From writing her own music to taking social media matters into her own hands, Denise is dedicated, diligent, and surrounded by a lovely support system. Members of her team include her friends, creative director Carissa King and musician and head of marketing Dom Guyot. Icons!

SHE CHAMPIONS MORENA REPRESENTATION

Growing up, as my playmates soaked in the sun’s rays, their skin burning through hours of outdoor play until their mothers summoned them home, I found solace indoors, captivated by women of color on TV. Wrapped in a comforter, I’d sing along and dress like them, dreaming of… pic.twitter.com/V6Bfelrb4N

— denise julia ♡ (@denisejvlia) October 11, 2023

The young artist bares herself in her music, sharing the inspirations and influences that made her who she is and her music the way it is. Upon releasing B.A.D., Denise shared her experiences with being teased for her skin color when she was younger, but added that as she grew up, she was able to find strength and embrace herself, her skin, and her roots. In the process, she’s giving young morena girls and gays a rising R&B/pop girl to look up to.

INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS STAN HER (AND VICE VERSA)

The Denise Julia stan train includes artists like Dream Academy winner and KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza, aespa’s Giselle, and even icon Bretman Rock—all of whom she’s a huge fan of. The singer revealed she was also deep into K-pop, being a fan of groups like TWICE, aespa, and NCT.

SHE’S ENGAGED WITH HER FANS

u guys r making me cry https://t.co/QNuvytcTTQ

— denise julia ♡ (@denisejvlia) November 17, 2023

Denise Julia has always been engaged with her fans, replying, reposting, and even joking around with them. She’s one of the girls, even if said girls have never met her in person before. She’s treats everyone like her friends, not her fans, and is immensely grateful for their support.

HER HUMOR IS ELITE

One scroll through Denise Julia’s X profile will get you laughing at the way she cracks jokes and references pop culture in true Gen Z fashion. She’s got a great sense of humor, and seems to be an absolute joy to be with.

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

Make sure to cross check these essentials before filing that cheque request for your college dorm.

Related: Here’s How to Romanticize Your Life as a ~Broke~ College Kid

Dorm hunting could be one of the most exciting moments a college student will ever have. The magic of trying to match with a certain space and the anticipation of what is about to unfold within these new four walls as you move in on your own is incomparable.This is a defining factor in living your college life to the fullest and a big decision. So, we have listed some factors you should consider when searching for the perfect space for you and all your college dreams. 

Budget

I don’t know if anybody has told you yet, but being a college student is hella expensive. Sustaining yourself practically comes a long way that is why putting budget as the first factor in dorm hunting is absolutely necessary. Sure, it’s a long-term investment, but going over the top with this justification might hurt you in the long run. If you’re aiming for a dorm straight out of a Pinterest board, investing in the interior might be better.

Roommates

Deciding whether you want a roommate or not might be a crucial part of kickstarting your dorm hunting. If you do decide to get a roommate, make sure that they are trustworthy, as you will be entrusting a lot of your personal belongings with them. Someone who jives well with your lifestyle and schedule might also make life easier for both of you. All in all, having concrete deciding factors on what kind of roommate you want to be with will be a big help.

Protip: Consider making them take the MBTI personality test. 

Photo via Modern Family | ABC

Space

Are you the minimalist or maximalist type? Having a checklist of what you want to bring with you as you move out will help a lot in deciding how much space you need. To be completely honest, as long as you have enough space for a bed and a cabinet, a functioning kitchen, and a designated space for your study area, you’ll live. 

Accessibility

Choosing dormitories that are easily accessible to supermarkets, food chains, laundry services, cafes, and study areas will be much of a great help as you navigate your college life. These are the essential spaces for your survival, so make sure you’re near these establishments.

Rules and Regulations

Curfews, guest policies, cooking policies: these are only a few of the rules and regulation matters you should be considering. We’re putting heavy stress on curfews, especially for college kids who are into the night scene. There are several dorms that do not allow entrance and exit beyond a specific time. If you are the type of person who is into all-nighters, then settling for a dorm with strict curfew policies might not be the best decision to make. 

Photo via Modern Family | ABC

Amenities

Some dormitories and condominiums offer a wide range of amenities, sometimes making these their main selling points. There are places that have indoor gyms, swimming pools, study areas, and convenience stores available within the building itself. For convenience purposes, you might want to consider searching thoroughly if your desired dorm has these amenities.

Convenience

Speaking of convenience, you might want to check nearby services that might become necessary in the future. Make sure to look into nearby hospitals or medical services, police stations, convenience stores, and again, more eating options. Traveling too far for these kinds of necessities defeats the purpose of having a dorm near campus. 

Parking

If you are bringing a car with you, check whether the place has a parking spot that won’t cost too much. There could be instances where parking will cost so much it becomes impractical to use their service. Confirming fees and the like before moving in or even during the time of inquiring is something you must consider. 

Photo via Modern Family | ABC

Bathroom

Another important factor in choosing a temporary home is to determine whether the bathroom is functional and not dreadful. Make sure to inquire about the heater, shower functions, bidet, pressure, drainage system, and all the other bathroom function essentials. Having to deal with a faulty bathroom is a deep problem a tenant could have, and we definitely don’t want icky moments like this to interfere with studies. 

Layout and Furnishing

Having a preferred layout in mind before dorm hunting would make the process much easier. There are tons of layout choices. You can get a studio unit, a unit with a separate bedroom and a living room, a house-like model, or even a loft. This goes the same for furnishing. Some dorms offer prior items like a bed frame and a cabinet, but there are also those that offer bare units. If you are fine providing all the materials, this gives you more freedom when it comes to organizing your space. However, if you prefer less hassle, then you may want to opt for a unit that is already semi-furnished. 

Photo via Modern Family | ABC

Vibes

You know what they say, you’ll know it when you feel it. Onsite visits while reviewing all your prospective places might help a lot in determining whether a certain unit feels right to you or not. Feeling the energy of the place and aligning your ~vibes~ with it might sound absurd, but incorporating good energy into your spaces will do a lot for your productivity and well-being.

Continue Reading: 5 Tips On How To Keep Your Sanity While Getting Through Your College Readings

You would think the haters would leave Miel Pangilinan alone given that she isn’t afraid to clap back.

Related: It’s Her Time Now: Miel Pangilinan  Is Coming Up And Out, This Time On Her Own Terms

Given that it’s 2023, it would be expected that people would mind their business and keep their rude comments to themselves. But alas, we still live in a world where people are still getting dragged just for how they look and act. But while the bashers may set up property in your posts with their unsolicited comments, that doesn’t mean they can get a free pass. 

Just look at how Miel Pangilinan unapologetically embraces who she is while clocking haters who think they have a say in all aspects of her life. TBH, we don’t know if we have the patience to handle all those tone-deaf comments, but Miel deals with them like a boss. Read on below for Miel Pangilinan’s best responses to hate comments.

WHEN SOMEONE TOLD HER TO STOP EATING RICE

@ponyofilm Replying to @Elle ♬ original sound – miel pangilinan

It’s crazy that some people are so comfortable telling people to stop eating, especially considering that Miel has been open about her struggles with her body. Her response to a netizen telling her to stop eating rice is a needed reminder of the importance of watching what we say online. “Just because I make content online doesn’t give you the right to overstep your boundaries and stick your nose in other people’s business.” Period. And as proof that there is still hope in this world, the original commenter apologized to Miel in the comments of the video.

WHEN SOMEONE FAT-SHAMED AND CALLED HER A PIG

@ponyofilm Replying to @久保くん ♬ original sound – miel pangilinan

Sadly, Miel is no stranger to being fat-shamed by bashers who are aghast at the sight of a big girl. But as she says, if you’re gonna fat-shame someone (which you shouldn’t), at least make it creative. 

WHEN SHE GOT THIS COMMENT ON WEIGHT LOSS

@ponyofilm Replying to @user446410 ♬ sonido original – OVER THE HORIZON

Just one of the many reasons why we love Miel Pangilinan is her Gen Z sense of humor and sarcasm.

WHEN SOMEONE SAID THEY MISSED “SIMPLE MIEL”

@ponyofilm Replying to @macleofetasarra ♬ original sound – miel pangilinan

Here’s a bit of social media 101: just because you have been following a public figure for years, doesn’t mean you have the right to say that you “miss” aspects of them. You don’t know them, and they don’t know you. 

WHEN SOMEONE CALLED HER “UGLIEST”

@ponyofilm Replying to @isseyubina ♬ original sound – miel pangilinan

The way there are people in this world who tear down others just because they don’t conform to certain standards is crazy. But like Miel, a simple two-word response is enough to make them irrelevant. 

WHEN SOMEONE ASKED HER IF SHE WAS SEXY

@ponyofilm Replying to @myrnaabandogonda ♬ who do you love yg – renny

The answer is yes, and Miel ate that comment up with a confidence we aspire to have.

WHEN SOMEONE WAS BOTHERED BY MIEL’S SELF-EXPRESSION

@ponyofilm Replying to @ccep0 ♬ original sound – habz.fx

What “too much of self-expression” is even supposed to mean, we don’t know. But it seems that the self-expression police have a problem with Miel’s openness to being herself. News flash, young women are allowed to explore who they are and what they want to become without judgment from others.

WHEN SOMEONE SAID SHE WAS POSSESSED BY LILITH

@ponyofilm Replying to @queensomar4 ♬ Call This # Now – The Garden

Homophobia? In 2023? We could never. But TBH, the comment is giving copy-paste meme energy.

WHEN SHE DEALT WITH PEOPLE WHO BROUGHT UP HER FAMOUS FAMILY

@ponyofilm Replying to @Yuri Kim ♬ original sound – miel – miel pangilinan

You would think that teenagers would be allowed to be who they are, live their truth, and embrace their style regardless of who their parents are. But some people didn’t get the memo, which Miel effortlessly reminded them of. 

Continue Reading: 9 Times Miel Pangilinan Proved That She Has A Big NCTzen Heart

Liza Soberano’s Hallyu exposure continues as she joins the cast of Dive Studios’ K-variety show Hwaiting Season 4.

Related: Liza Soberano Is Really Living Her Hallyu Dreams

From befriending K-pop idols to learning Korean, Liza Soberano is diving headfirst into the entertainment industry of South Korea. The young star is riding the Hallyu wave and making a name for herself as an international icon, and her recently-announced hosting stint on the fourth season of Dive Studios’ variety show Hwaiting is a milestone that marks a significant step forward in a new, exciting career path.

Liza joins Eric Nam, Nancy, THE BOYZ’s Kevin and Jacob, and ASTRO’s Jinjin as cast members of Hwaiting Season 4. Past cast members include WayV’s TEN and Yangyang, Jae, Amber Liu, KARD’s BM, Peniel, Ashley Choi, Jamie, and more.

X/thedivestudios

“Had so much fun filming this,” Liza wrote in an Instagram story. “Excited for everyone to see it!” Liza’s crossed paths with Dive Studios before, most recently having been a guest on the Get Real podcast with Ashley Choi and Peniel from BTOB where they talked about spending habits and stress management. Being a variety show with games, banter, and competition, Hwaiting opens a new opportunity for Liza and the new cast members to form a entertaining dynamic. There are no air dates yet for the web show, but we can’t wait to witness the fun. Here are a few things we hope to see in the new season.

Instagram Story/lizasoberano

GAMES YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE

Hwaiting features several quizzes and games—mind games, strategy games, physical games, as well as team and individual games involving everything from jump ropes to bunny headphones, giant Jenga blocks to obstacle relays. This new season’s bound to have Liza and the rest of the cast play wild, outlandish, and thrilling games that you can even recreate at parties!

HIGH-STAKES COMPETITION

One of the best things about variety shows, particularly South Korean ones, is how competitive contestants get over the simplest of games or the most trivial of prizes. They’d yell, play fight, play tricks, or even tiptoe the line of cheating—just one episode of Going Seventeen or Running Man will show the hilariously intense competition between artists, comedians, and variety stars. Liza, all we can say is—ipakita mo kung sino ka!

CULTURAL EXCHANGE

With a whole bunch of artists from South Korea and all over the world influenced by different cultures and with different interests, Hwaiting‘s bound to see these cultures and personalities intersect. They’ll be sharing commonalities and differences, and learn about each other. They’ll most likely even have more idols and artists as guests on the show.

RIB-CRACKING COMEDY

When the show starts airing, get ready to settle down with snacks and drinks, because we expect Hwaiting to take up your time as it brings the laughs. Games are already a perfect precedent for comedy, and with these charming stars in the roster as well as with Liza hyping up the show, we’re sure it’ll be a hilarious watch.

Continue Reading: Liza Soberano Is In Her YouTube Series Era With ‘Liza in Korea’

What started as a hobby to pass the time became a full-time job that brought Jhanzen “Bulldog” Latorre and his family newfound blessings. 

Related: A Peek Inside The Gaming World Of Sharlene San Pedro

While some still think that video games are a waste of time or bad for your brain, gaming continues to prove its cultural and economic worth. This holds especially true with video games serving as a steady source of income for many. Despite what some may say, gaming is not a roadblock to success, but an actual career that can bring positive change into your life. Childhood sermons begone. Just look at how 22-year-old gamer and streamer Jhanzen Latorre is living. 

Jhanzen, who popularly goes by Bulldog online, began his gaming journey as an information technology student who played video games to pass the time, with Mobile Legends being a personal favorite. But soon, he realized that there was more to gaming than just a pastime. After going live as his online gaming personality Bulldog, the young content creator became a viral sensation and found himself with a steady income that helped him buy their family’s own house after years of renting as well as other amenities. Now who says gaming is a waste of time? 

FREE TIME TO FULL-TIME

Like with many gamers, Bulldog was attracted to the allure of video games because of the fun he had with friends and as a much-needed destresser from the real world. “Na-inlove ako sa paglalaro kase dito ko nakikita or nararanasan yung totoong saya lalo na pag kasama ko din mga kaibigan ko. Bukod doon, paglalaro din nagtatanggal ng stress ko at pampalipas oras.”

Soon enough, livestreaming called his name, with his outgoing personality, commentary, and active energy making him right at home on the platform. “During a time na nag-stream ako, may biglang nag-comment sa page ko na papadalhan nila ‘ko ng gift,” he recalls. “Doon ko narealize na why not mag try ako sa Facebook.” The rest, as they say, is history as Bulldog got accepted to become a Facebook Partner, his streams attracted millions of viewers, and soon, opportunities, such as brand deals, came his way. “Dito ko narealize na pwede kang kumita habang ginagawa yung passion mo.” 

PHOTO COURTESY OF TIER ONE ENTERTAINMENT

As of this writing, the 22-year-old streamer’s Facebook page has a massive 3.8 million followers. And the best part is that his online moniker that he’s known for came from what was once a source of bullying. “Back when I was in high school, lagi akong binubully ng mga kaibigan ko, sinasabihan na mukang bulldog. Kaya naisip ko na mas okay siguro kung tatawagin nila ko sa pang-asar nila sakin para ‘pag tinawag na nila ko next time hindi na pang-aasar yung mararamdaman ko kundi isang ‘Bulldog’ na streamer.”

Watch any of Bulldog’s streams, you’ll see why he’s become a popular streamer. He’s entertaining, playful, and funny with boring being nowhere near his vocabulary and the skills to back his big personality. He streams for 10 hours every day, not an easy feat for someone who gives that kind of energy every stream. But he makes do, especially with the people who support him in his endeavors. “Of course sa family, friends, and girlfriend ko,” says Bulldog on where he gets his inspiration. “Sila yung laging nag-iinspire sakin para magstream and para ituloy yung nasimulan ko. Next is yung mga positive na tao nakapaligid sakin na nagpapalakas ng loob ko. Sila dahilan kung bakit patuloy kong ginagawa to.”

A GAMER’S SUCCESS 

What started as him streaming Mobile Legends from his home quickly became a livelihood that supported not just himself, but his entire family. The doors that gaming has opened for Bulldog allowed him to give his family a better life. As the family breadwinner, he bought his family a new home, bought his car, and even started a business. 

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing as Bulldog had to make some sacrifices, most notably dropping out of school. Reflecting on the moment, he says, “Isa sa pinakamahirap na desisyon para sa akin ay yung mag-stop ako ng pag-aaral. Second year lang ang natapos ko dahil nag-decide akong subukan ang pagiging streamer. Sinubukan kong balansehin ang oras ko sa school at sa streaming, pero nakakadrain kaya’t inip ko kung ano ang dapat kong gawin.” 

Luckily, his parents supported his decision, and, more importantly, he and his family have been able to take in the success gaming has brought them. “Masasabi ko na pwede na din, lalo na sa sitwasyon namin ngayon na may sarili na akong bahay, sasakyan, lupain, at negosyo. Dun ko masasabi na sobrang laki ng naitulong sa akin ng gaming at pagiging streamer.” 

ON THE GRIND 

As society collectively moves away from the stereotypical idea that a gamer is someone who lives in his parent’s basement into adulthood and is constantly on the computer, more and more are we seeing the good that gaming can bring about. Livestreaming video games introduced Bulldog to a large audience and a whole new world of opportunities. His career is still on the rise, as seen with how he recently signed with Tier One Entertainment. “Sobrang saya ko kasi ang tagal ko inantay para lang maging parte ng Tier One,” he gushes. “Parang isa nanamang achievement ang nakuha ko. Bukod doon, dito ko rin nakilala ang iba’t-ibang tao, kaya sobrang thankful ako sa Tier One.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF TIER ONE ENTERTAINMENT

Video games was, is, and will continue to be a viable livelihood that is possible to achieve. Take it from Bulldog and don’t let the naysayers get to you. Gaming is not a waste of time. “Una sa lahat, huwag natin lahatin ang uri ng mga gamer kasi hindi naman tayo pare-pareho ng pinagdadaanan sa buhay. May iba na gumagamit ng gaming bilang paraan para mawala ang stress o boredom, habang ang iba naman ay itinuturing itong hobby at pamatay-oras. Kaya’t nakadepende pa rin ito sa tao. Minsan, ang mindset ng iba ay dahil lang sa ganito, wala ng mararating. Iba-iba ang takbo ng pag-iisip ng bawat isa, kaya’t always think positive lang.” 

As for his advice to other young gamers who also see themselves as future livestreamers, Bulldog stresses the importance of managing your time. “Wag kayong tumigil sa pangarap niyo, pero alalahanin niyo rin, huwag ding masyadong ma-overwhelm ng mga laro. Dapat marunong din tayo mag-balance ng oras sa pamilya, kaibigan, at sa ibang hilig bukod sa gaming. Keep dreaming and grinding!”

Continue Reading: 14 Filipino Streamers Every Gamer Should Follow

With a mysterious aura and a distinctly dark feminine energy, Mikha Lim of BINI is the textbook definition of a Scorpio.

Related: Meet The Gen Z Fiber Artist Whose Work Has Been Worn By BINI, Nadine Lustre, And More

As Scorpio season nears its conclusion, the celestial energy of this zodiac sign continues to captivate our imagination. If you’re into astrology, you’re aware that Scorpio stereotypes embody traits of privacy, loyalty, and intriguing eccentricity—think of personalities like Kendall Jenner, Miley Cyrus, and Lorde.

If there’s another celebrity who fits the bill, it’s Mikha Lim of the P-pop girl group BINI. Born on November 8, 2003, as the youngest among her two siblings, she’s a fan-favorite Scorpio. With a magnetic presence that exudes strength, a mysterious aura, and a distinctly dark feminine energy, her traits alone align perfectly with the textbook archetype of this water sign. Scroll through the reasons why.

All About That Strong Aura

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mikha Lim (@bini_mikha)

We were conditioned to perceive femininity as light, dainty, and dreamy. However, when we imagine pink dresses, flower picking, and rolls of ribbons, we’re only seeing half of the picture. Dark feminine energy doesn’t equate to wickedness, rebellion, or anything negative—it simply encapsulates the mysteries of womanhood and magic. You know that sultry, powerful look exemplified by individuals like Mikha Lim? That’s the one often stereotypically associated with a Scorpio sign.

Crazy Creative

@truelightpraise Cause of de*th: Mikha Lim's acting skills #bini_mikha #hesintoherseason2episode12 #biniph #ppopbini #fyp ♬ original sound – truelightpraise – truelighty

In case you didn’t know, Mikha is an all-around performer. Apart from being the main rapper and lead dancer of BINI, she’s also had acting experience in He’s Into Her Season 2. To say the least, she’s mad creative. Whether it’s her on-stage performances or her behind-the-scenes magic, she embodies the Scorpio trait with her insane creativity.

Miss Independent

@ate_tj Walang kupas ang angas #fypシ #MikhaLim #BINI #BiniMikha #ppop @bini_mikha #hesintoherseason2 ♬ original sound 🦊👻 – Ate TJ

Mikha is the poster child of Miss Independent. Much like a Scorpio, Lim exudes a magnetic presence, radiating an air of intensity and passion in everything she pursues. Despite having supportive siblings, parents, and friends, Mikha has diligently worked for everything she has today. At a young age, her determination, drive, and self-reliance propelled her to complete her training as a Star Hunt Academy trainee in 2019, debut as one of the members of BINI, and pursue an acting career. Considering joining the industry is no small feat, but the fact that she also underwent the rigorous Korean training system? She’s definitely going places.

Ride-or-Die Loyalty 

@editsforbini my bby's so supportive, vv gorgeous and kind 🥺 #bini #biniph #binimikha #bini_mikha #mikhalim #ppop #vxon #g22 #fyp ♬ original sound – httpmjle – ☻

Mikha is the definition of a ride-or-die bestie, and I mean that as a Scorpio – loyalty is in her DNA. When it comes to having the backs of BINI, her friends, and family, Mikha’s loyalty hits differently—no limits, just full-on support. And when you catch her in fancams, it’s a whole mood! She’s out there, even hyping her friends from G22 and VXON like no other. Mikha proves that loyalty isn’t just a word; she brings that energy everywhere she goes.

She’s Saur Funny

@bloom.iyah Ano raw tagalog ng "electricity" joker yan HAHAHAHA🤪 #binimikha #mikhalim #fyp ♬ original sound – Samanaea🌸 – 🌸

When they’re deemed as distinctly dark, fiercely feminine, and mysterious, that doesn’t mean Scorpios lack a funny bone. Mikha’s aura may exude an air of mystery and intensity, but her genuine nature and honest humor break through any intimidation, revealing a warmth and authenticity that resonate deeply with those around the 20-year old.

Continue Reading: 5 Times BINI Showed That There Was No One Like Them In P-pop