While we’re all about Liza Soberano’s look at the SAG Awards, you might’ve missed that the products she used are already in your makeup stash.
We’re all living for Hollywood’s latest sensation, Liza Soberano. From her stellar performance in Lisa Frankenstein as Taffy, where the Filipina actress was praised far and wide, she’s (once again) the talk of the town as she graces her first Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards on February 25 in Los Angeles.
ICYMI, this star-studded awards show sheds light on the crème de la crème of the film and television industries, with actors themselves voting for the best. And then there’s Liza, walking down the red carpet in a Pamella Roland gown, exuding elegance from every angle. But hold onto your seats—what’s the secret behind her flawless Hollywood glam, you ask? With a face card that should’ve won its own award—lucky for us—her MUA spilled the beans on the exact products she wore.
Face Card Award
First things first—meet Melissa Hernandez, the celebrity MUA behind Liza’s look at the SAG Awards and the flawless faces of Sydney Sweeney, Olivia Rodrigo, and Lana Condor. Take a scroll through her Instagram feed, and you’ll discover her passion for fresh but fierce faces, often punctuated with sultry smokey eyes or a classic black liner combined with either the perfect nude or a red pout. Her artistry is all about individual beauty with a touch of Hollywood glam, ensuring her celebrity clients shine brighter than any spotlight.
At the SAG Awards, Melissa worked the same makeup magic on Liza Soberano, effortlessly enhancing her natural beauty with a touch of glam. With a subtle shadow and sleek black eyeliner, she accentuated Soberano’s stunning features, topping it off with an MLBB shade for the actress.
The best part? Almost all of the products used are not only accessible but also affordable in the Philippines. Scroll through the list below:
All About That Base
Enhancing her complexion flawlessly, Melissa applied the Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation in shade 310, ensuring a smooth base with a matte finish. For brightening the under-eye area, she skillfully applied the Age Rewind Concealer in Medium, seamlessly blending it for a natural appearance.
Both products hail from the Filipino-favorite drugstore brand, Maybelline, readily available from supermarkets to department stores. Best believe, you can snag these two—stat.
Fun and Flushed
To restore her natural contours, Liza wore City Bronzer in Medium, infusing her look with much-needed warmth. Adding a pop of color, she swept Cheek Heat in Fuchsia Spark across her cheeks, achieving a fun and pretty pink flush. And, of course, let’s not forget the mastermind behind that celebrity glow—the Master Chrome Highlight in Molten Gold, skillfully applied to the high points of her face, catching the light beautifully.
The Perfect Pout
For the perfect pout, Melissa lined the lips with Maybelline’s Shaping Lip Liner in 125 Magnetic Mauve, defining the natural shape. Then, she filled in the lips with the Superstay Ink Crayon in 155 Achieve It All, providing long-lasting color with a comfortable finish.
Now, we can all agree that the result was a stunning look that enhanced Liza’s natural beauty for the SAG Awards red carpet.
K-beauty is so in, and we know we’d love to recreate those Hallyu-style makeup looks ourselves. Here’s where you can begin—with the new drops from barenbliss!
Ever wanted to hop on the K-beauty trend but don’t know where to begin? Whether you want to start with a beginner soft, blurred lip or try out a more advanced aegyo sal eye technique with a shimmery shadow, there are options in the Philippine market that can help you achieve that Hallyu-inspired look.
For instance, from lip tints to cushion compacts, eyeshadows to browcara, South Korean brand barenbliss offers a wide selection of clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products. Pro-tip when scouring stores for the perfect K-beauty look: prioritize ease of use, color variety, and products with skincare infused into them. Don’t risk your skin’s health for a makeup look!
barenbliss is a rising clean beauty brand that’s deeply-rooted in the Korean beauty market, so you can bet you can recreate the best of trendy K-beauty looks with their selection. They recently opened their global flagship store in the heart of Myeongdong, South Korea, too!
Their new products include perfect K-beauty essentials to chuck in your makeup bags—products that are convenient, beginner-friendly, and useful in more ways than one (which means you can achieve the same effect with one products as you would with two or more). Check out four of their new makeup products below!
BLOOMATTE STAY CONFIDENT 2-IN-1 FOUNDATION
Let’s be real here—base makeup is one of the most arduous process of the beat. Having to ensure a perfect skin tone match, a good blend, and good coverage is a Task with a capital T. The barenbliss Bloomatte Stay Confident 2-in-1 Foundation is a long-wear matte foundation that also conceals. Win-win! It’s smooth, hydrating, and high-coverage. It also has SPF and was formulated to be friendly to all skin types, relieving you of the apprehension of will this base break me out? Keep your game face on at all times by keeping this foundation in your kikay kit.
TRUE BEAUTY INSIDE CUSHION
If you’re not the liquid foundation type, you’re in luck! Makeup cushions are in. Cushions are as convenient as compacts, but the product is something quite different. Bringing together the coverage and hydrating benefits of a liquid foundation and the ease of a powder compact, barenbliss’ True Beauty Inside Cushion is a matte, medium-high coverage base.
The cushion in this compact houses a non-greasy lightweight cream that won’t cake on your face and absorbs oil, blurs and hydrates at the same time. It’s liquid, but doesn’t carry the same hassle of accidentally pumping out too much liquid foundation. And it’s easy to carry around—perfect to have in your makeup kit.
SET N SLICK BROWCARA
What’s a browcara, you ask? Well, a brow mascara is a product that tints, fills in, shapes, styles, and sets your eyebrows all at once. The barenbliss Like A Pro! Shockproof Durabrow Pomade is a cream product you can apply to your brows with a spoolie to groom them, define them, and make them stand out even more. Once it dries, it’s mess-proof and sweat-proof, keeping your eyebrows on lock and on fleek for up to 12 hours.
DREAM CHASER QUAD EYESHADOW PALETTE
Trust us—it’s common to be intimidated by huge palettes in all colors of the rainbow. Eyeshadow requires a bit of a learning curve before one masters it, but if you’re looking to start, the barenbliss Dream Chaser Quad Palette could be a great partner. Put together any of its matte, shimmery, and glittery shades and come up with a glowy eye look that’s impactful and versatile. The palettes come in four options you can choose from: Honey Lake, Coral Cloud, Sugary Rose, and Dreamer Dust—all of which can go from daytime to evening date with just a few swipes.
Shop these products and more in-stores at Watsons and SM Beauty, as well as Shopee, Lazada, andTikTok Shop! And keep an eye on on the barenbliss Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more content about products you can add to your makeup kit.
Another day, another slay for Sarah Geronimo as she gets herself on the history books once more as the first Filipina awarded at Billboard’s Women In Music.
When you’re an icon like Sarah Geronimo, making history feels like a regular Tuesday. For over two decades, the OPM superstar has given us timeless bops, unforgettable performances, and genre-defining concerts. In the process, she has not only changed the game and solidified herself as an icon in OPM, but also made a name for herself in the global scene. As proof of this, Sarah G added the latest achievement to her resume with the announcement that Billboard will be honoring her at their Women in Music Awards.
GLOBAL FORCE SARAH G
On February 23 (local time), Billboard announced that Sarah Geronimo would be one of this year’s awardees for the Global Force Award at the 2024 Women in Music Awards. Since its conception in 2007, Billboard’s Women in Music Awards has honored, highlighted, and championed the women who have been killing the game. In the past couple of years, the awards ceremony has also turned beyond the US to award women in other countries whose impact and achievement are undeniable.
Photo by Mark Nicdao
Photo courtesy of Billboard Philippines
This year marks the introduction of the Global Force Award, and joining Sarah Geronimo as part of the inaugural winners are Brazilian singer-songwriter Luisa Sonza and Italian artist Annalisa. The honor came in part with the help of Billboard Philippines, who announced that they nominated a Filipina at this year’s Women in Music who is an “all-around performer whose talents and artistry knows no bounds.” A great choice if we do say so ourselves.
WOMEN, PERIOD
With this achievement, not only does Sarah Geronimo become the first Filipina to win the Global Force award, but also the first full-blooded Filipina ever to take home an award at Women in Music. This also marks her latest international award she can add to her awards closet, with other accolades such as a Mnet Asian Music Award and MTV EMA to her name. All we can say is deserve!
The 2024 Billboard Women in Music Awards will happen this March 6 at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles, California, and available to view on Billboard’s website on March 7. Other honorees this year include NewJeans for Group of the Year, Victoria Monét for the Honda Rising Star award, and Karol G as Woman of the Year. And if you’re wondering, yes, Sarah Geronimo will be present in LA to receive her award. We already can’t wait for the NewJeans and Sarah G moment.
Nine seasons of growth: TWICE, once ordinary girls, now idols whom millions of people get strength from; idols who touch millions with their performances and melodies, through eyes and ears. They are still going strong, with no sign of stopping from showcasing their undimmed talents and love, especially for ONCEs (fandom name). NAYEON, JEONGYEON, MOMO, SANA, JIHYO, MINA, DAHYUN, CHAEYOUNG, and TZUYU are ready to open another glittering chapter of their journey as they commemorate a decade of being together next year.
WITH YOU-TH
For 9 years, TWICE has worked hard to put out quality albums. Every album release brings its own hurdles. NAYEON shares, “There were challenging times when preparing for this album, from shooting the music video to recording songs. But I worked hard, thinking of ONCEs who are looking forward to our new album.” JIHYO, the group’s leader, agrees, saying that for her, it seems like there are no smooth parts every time they prepare for a new release. “Since it’s a new album, there’s a lot to think about and organize.”
The group always tries to knit their priceless relationship with ONCEs into their releases, as evident in their recent records, Formula of Love: O+T=<3 and Between 1&2. And this continues to be woven through With YOU-th, with the tracks I GOT YOU, One Spark, RUSH, New New, BLOOM, and You Get Me. CHAEYOUNG credits their fans’ unwavering encouragement as the driving force behind it all. Her voice carries a touch of heartfelt gratitude when she continues, “That’s why I always think it’s essential to include ONCEs in our minds when we create albums.”
“This album is about the theme of youth, and while ONCEs already know how close we are, we wanted to convey the message and express how strong our bond is,” JEONGYEON voices, who also once said before: “When ONCE says, ‘TWICE was in my youth days,’ I feel very happy and satisfied.”
THE REASON WHY
The I GOT YOU music video opens with a chilling scene: MINA looks out through the window, and what she sees is the furious ocean, its towering waves with the raging storm. But a shift occurs. She turns around and smiles. That glance transforms into a beacon of hope as she gleefully looks at her fellow members. A strong message is delivered in that silence: in the face of fear and uncertainty, their sisterhood acts as an unwavering anchor, reassuring them that they will always be able to weather any storm together.
The pinky promise and red strings of fate in the music video are testaments to TWICE’s inseparable bond. And because of the presence of the nine members and “you,” they continue to sail, even through reckless moments, looking in the same direction to get past these obstacles.
“It feels reassuring not to be alone,” confides DAHYUN, “and whether it’s moments of joy or difficulty, knowing that everyone feels the same thing and can empathize with me feels comforting.” JIHYO then echoes her sentiments, saying that rather than making efforts, maintaining a good relationship between each other comes naturally because they know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. She adds, “It seems that having a friendly relationship always contributes significantly to a sense of unity and teamwork, more so than any specific reasons.”
More than just ONCEs’ support, DAHYUN reveals that working together as a group of nine also makes their work more enjoyable and fulfilling. A testament to their solid relationship? “There are times when we understand each other without even having to say anything because we’ve spent so much time together,” she says.
THE STORY CONTINUES
The girls still vividly remember the memories they have had from their early years. For them, it’s the shared experiences that shine brightest, hoping to “continue working hard and living happily, just like we did back then,” as MOMO says.
Bubbly anthems have somehow become their trademark, but their ambition goes beyond it. The members have always been ready to explore new sounds. “Many people have mentioned that seeing TWICE perform bright songs gives them energy,” SANA tells NYLON Manila. Rather than letting her intense training back during her trainee days “go to waste,” SANA knew she couldn’t let them become remains of the past.
She confesses, “I had a strong desire to show a variety of concepts in terms of stage presence, choreography, and music genres, so I appealed to the company.” From releasing cute and cheerful tunes to expanding their spectrum to include more powerful tracks and intense choreography, SANA believes that this shift in their concepts has helped them enhance their stage presence over time.
“We discuss and consult with the company and members, putting effort into showcasing new aspects of TWICE that haven’t been revealed before,” adds DAHYUN.
The seemingly never-ending cheers and encouragement from their fans become the wind beneath TWICE’s wings. “Our appreciation towards fans who make it possible for us to enjoy our work is the same now and then,” SANA expresses.
And for her, seeing joy on their fans’ faces is the most important thing above all else. “I’m more excited about the fans’ reactions than worrying about anything else,” says SANA. A sentiment that she witnesses in her fellow members’ eyes, too.
EMBRACING IMPERFECTIONS
Everyone has seen how TWICE has grown as artists, and through years of growth, they have developed a resilient approach to negativity. “We don’t pay much attention to it,” MOMO shares. “I believe if ONCEs gain strength from us… That’s all that matters.” With each passing year, a deeper connection unfolds between TWICE and their fans. It’s another thing ONCEs love most about the group: their honest, authentic selves.
Looking back on the past, JEONGYEON recalls, “In the early days of our debut, our schedules were so hectic that we once performed on stage with incomplete preparations,” adding that she felt like she wasn’t being professional enough because of those instances back then. However, with experience, she realized: “As humans, we are allowed to make mistakes.”
“From that point on, I stopped dwelling too much on those aspects,” JEONGYEON admits. “Even if we make mistakes, ONCEs always find it cute and love us even more, which makes me feel more relatable.”
Instead of feeling the weight of being in the spotlight, DAHYUN embraces it as an opportunity for growth. “Receiving that much attention means people are interested in us,” she says, “so instead of feeling burdened, we strive to show a better side.”
TWICE’s “HERSTORY”
TWICE’s past is packed with a plethora of historical moments and achievements, and the future promises more of the same, or perhaps even more. Though it might not exactly be the same, the biggest difference is: their first years were defined by tireless effort to share their music to a larger audience. But now, millions of people are listening to their songs, hundreds of thousands of people are lining up to see them perform live on stage — a full circle moment the girls would absolutely reflect and be proud of for the rest of their lives.
Now, their focus is to give back to people who love them and hold them dear, near and far. “When we debuted, we worked hard to promote the team,” SANA says. “Our focus now is performing to those who love and support us, like our ONCEs.”
Fans seem to find that spark and charm in such genuine connections, and TZUYU believes that this is what ONCEs see: the strong bond among the members: “The close relationship between our members, as well as our friendly and comfortable interactions with fans, has created an atmosphere where ONCEs feel like friends.” But behind this celebrated fame is TWICE’s artistry that needs not to go unnoticed. The members have consistently demonstrated their multifaceted talents, dazzling stage presence, performance, and personalities, among others — factors that also contributed significantly to the band’s current popularity.
And one of these is their involvement in the creative process of their music. The nine-piece group has songwriting credits under their name, and for this particular album, CHAEYOUNG, JEONGYEON, and DAHYUN penned RUSH, BLOOM, and You Get Me, respectively, showing the band’s commitment to participate in the creative process and add their own flavor to their music.
THE QUEENS OF ONCE’S HEARTS
It was in 2019 when TWICE took their first steps onto the Philippine stage, captivating a crowd of around 10,000 at the Mall of Asia Arena during TWICELIGHTS tour. Four years later, they returned, not to one, but two sold-out shows at the massive Philippine Arena as part of their 5th world tour aptly titled READY TO BE.
While CHAEYOUNG’s absence at the shows was certainly felt, the deafening cheers that erupted whenever she appeared on screen before the show started, or whenever her lines in the songs were heard, were a powerful testament to the fans’ support despite her not being on stage. Just as ONCEs hope for TWICE to come back to the Philippines as nine members, TWICE also shares the same wish: to return completely next time. “I felt really sorry for the ONCEs in the Philippines because we couldn’t be together,” echoes CHAEYOUNG, saying reassuringly, “I hope we can be together next time.”
The band has been touring around the world and added even more“firsts” to their resume, including being the first K-pop girl group to perform sold-out stages at massive stadiums like SoFi and MetLife in the United States, Jakarta International Stadium, Foro Sol in Mexico, and Allianz Parque Stadium in Brazil, among others. Soon, TWICE is set to make history as the first K-pop girl group to hold a concert at the Nissan Stadium in Japan, accommodating 75,000 fans.
Though some would think that the girls are fed up whenever they perform the same songs over and over again, TWICE sees it differently: “The setlist and stage may be the same, but because the ONCEs in the audience are different each time, we always approach the performance with a fresh mindset,” MINA explains. “Watching ONCEs enjoying the show provides a new feeling each time.”
For MINA, she tends to get nervous on the first day of the concert and won’t have much time to even think about it. She shares that they are having lighthearted conversations right up to the moment before the performance, flipping that nervousness into fun. “It seems like we approach the shows with a relaxed mindset, aiming to enjoy the performance,” she adds.
The mere thought of solo concerts and meeting international ONCEs is thrilling, but personally witnessing their love from these incredible stages, bigger than we ever dared to imagine, is heartwarming. “This time, performing in truly massive venues that we could never have imagined makes my heart swell,” says DAHYUN.
While meeting fans and touring reifies their success, NAYEON acknowledges the flip side: a heightened sense of responsibility that comes with the immense attention they’re receiving: “Realizing the influence and the ability to impact others, I find myself thinking more and being more cautious in various aspects.”
TWICE AS YOUR SOURCE OF COMFORT
2024 marks their 9th year as TWICE, a step closer to a decade full of memories. They’re eager to commemorate the day, October 20th, with their fans, usually through the traditional fan meeting. “Bringing happiness to our fans, ONCEs, in return is something that makes us really happy,” says TZUYU.
If TWICE could leave a lasting mark, TZUYU hopes that it’s a source of “healing” and “hope.” Everyone goes through tough times in their lives, and the girls want to serve as a comforting light during those times. “When we perform on stage, we want to help make those difficult moments a little easier for people,” says TZUYU. “We hope to be a source of comfort, sharing and understanding the pain.”
If the hot days have been any indication, summer is almost here. Another sign that we’re approaching beach season? We’re down to our last Friday of February, which means March is just around the corner. So, as the last hoorah for the month and a pregame to your summer 2024 playlist, we’ve gathered some of our favorite new releases of the week. Open your ears and playlists to the tracks below.
ONE SPARK – TWICE
TWICE giving us a fun, upbeat, and wholesome love song, just how we like it.
SATURN – SZA
SZA turns to the stars for another bop on longing about thinking that life would be better on another planet then here. Same tbh.
LOVE ON – SELENA GOMEZ
That beat though. Selena makes it known that she can give a fun time once she turns her love one.
SABIK – ILLEST MORENA
The beat alone is worth the play, but the lyrics and attitude is what completes this sexy and sensual tune.
RUN BACK TO YOU – LAY AND LAUV
A collaboration we didn’t know we needed until know, these two artists sing about the relatable scenario of going back to your ex and make the same mistakes.
ECHOES – VALKYRAE, FUSLIE, AND YLONA GARCIA
Charlie’s Angels who? We only know Valkyrae, Fuslie, and Ylona.
LIHIM – MRLD
Add this to your “secret crush” playlist. It’s a whole mood and a half on those moments where you just can’t admit your feelings to your crush.
SHOPPER – IU
Leave it to IU to give us an anthem on shopping and enjoying the life you’ve got.
TAHAN NA – DWTA AND ARTHUR MIGUEL
Capturing the universal experience of longing for love and connection, the song expresses the realities of harboring unrequited feelings for someone not capable of reciprocating the same level of affection.
HOODIE – DIONELA AND ALISSON SHORE
Like wearing the hoodie of your special someone, this song captures the warmth, intimacy, and simple beauty found in everyday moments that can transform the ordinary into something extra special.
1 MINUTE – YUGYEOM
YUGYEOM is right. You’re just gonna need one minute to like this song.
AOLID – RAVEN, KVRT, AND NICHIMI
This cut his Kinulayan album, a free-spirited record that conveys happiness and radiates with positive emotions and expressions, is all about lifting spirits and rising against the odds.
STARVING – AUDREY NUNA AND TEEZO TOUCHDOWN
This dynamic duo brings together breezy and effortless vocals with the confident bar delivery.
CLOSER I GET – FERN.
Through lo-fi, pop, and R&B, the track explores how finding out more about a person makes you fall in love with them more and the closer you get to them the harder it is to let go.
I’LL BE MINE – FLU AND NUMCHA
A one-sided relationship is one of the reddest red flags, but that doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world if you find yourself in one. Just take it from this song, which is a reminder that deciding to leave a taxing relationship is the first step to the path of embracing self-worth.
GETAWAY – PREP AND PHUM VIPHURIT
Will you or you won’t. That’s the premise of this bop about the conflicting feelings of needing a break from a situation, but knowing you don’t want to leave it behind forever.
DRAMA – BRISCOM AND ICA FRIAS
90s pop-rock takes center stage in this grunge-meets-bubblegum-pop number.
It’s been about three years into their careers, and leading P-pop groups BINI and ALAMAT are doing nothing but slay. From screens to stages, the eight-member girl group and the six-member boy group have constantly shown us that they’re more than just occasional co-workers—they’re pretty much besties. The two groups are composed of Jhoanna, Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, and Sheena, and Taneo, Mo, Jao, Tomas, R-Ji, and Alas, respectively. BINI and ALAMAT (or, as we now know them to be, “BINILAT”) have made waves online not just for their music and their talent, but also for their friendship and their collaborations.
Whether it’s running on pure unserious BFF energy online, spearheaded by “BINILAT presidents” Maloi of BINI and Jao of ALAMAT, or maximizing their joint slay as musicians and performers, the two P-pop groups are growing in popularity and success individually and as an unofficial unit. Check out some of the many moments where BINI and ALAMAT were the best of industry friends below.
NA NA NA, KBYE COLLAB STAGE
BINI and ALAMAT took to the stage for a collaborative performance of their songs Na Na Na and kbye at the Tugatog Music Festival back in 2022. They were having a blast singing, rapping, and dancing all together as one P-pop supergroup. They even had some fun fan interactions while showing off their live skills.
One of the biggest BINILAT highlights saw the two groups perform a mashup of BINI’s viral hit Pantropiko and ALAMAT’s Day and Night, a mashup that ALAMAT member Alas created himself! “PANDAN” is an amalgamation of the two songs’ titles, so there’s really no shortage of witty name combos when it comes to these two groups. They filmed the TikTok collab backstage at the UP Fair in celebration of ALAMAT’s third anniversary, BINI’s (very late) anniversary, and generally, their growing joint virality.
MAHARANI JHOANNA
P-pop idol and BINI leader Jhoanna isn’t just a musician. The 20-year old is also an actress, and had a starring role as the princess (or lakamBINI) in the music video for ALAMAT’s megahit Maharani. Jhoanna and ALAMAT learned how to dance the Singkil for the video. Taneo said of the BINI member, “Sobrang professional niya, sobrang galing niya.” It’s also in the behind-the-scenes were Jhoanna calls the group welcoming and herself says, “Go BINILAT!”
These days, what’s a friendship without a TikTok together? Of course, being composed of Gen Z artists means they’re right on top of all the trends—whether it’s their own or just a random TikTok trend. From Jhoanna using Alas’ TikTok sound to duo TikToks by Maloi, Mikha, and Jao, BINILAT has the trend game on lock.
The UP Fair saw BINI and ALAMAT in the same lineup, and neither skimped on their support for each other both backstage and on stage. Whether it’s the girl group inciting cheers for ALAMAT at the end of their set or the boy group cheering on the girls backstage before they went on, they hyped each other up all the way.
Speaking of supportive! At the 2022 POPstival event, ALAMAT (who were done performing) were seen jamming to BINI’s performance near the end of the night. BINI revealed that ALAMAT was waiting for them and that they were actually going to be on a flight to Bacolod for another event. Booked and busy besties.
Besides crossing paths IRL, BINILAT show their friendship across social media platforms, whether on TikTok or on X. Ever supportive, constantly hilarious, it’s clear that the members of each group have formed some great, supportive friendships as they pursue their careers—and this is only the beginning. We’re seated for more interactions, more TikToks, more collabs, and more joint slays by BINILAT.
Are you ready for another adventure, wanderers? Brace yourselves as the Wanderland Music & Arts Festival 2024 is just a few sleepless nights away. Keeping the tradition alive of bringing together great music and even greater people, this highly-anticipated event will showcase sensations like Bosudong Cooler, Hwasa, and Thundercats. And let’s not forget about our homegrown talents, with Ena Mori, Lola Amour, and a whole lineup of local acts set to fire up Filinvest City in Muntinlupa.
As the excitement builds up for the big weekend, it’s time to check if your tickets are secured and your festival OOTD is ready. And if you’re still without tickets, we got you. Wanderland has recently revealed not one, not two, but three incredible ways for you to snag passes for free! Here’s how:
Ads and Giveaways
To throw your hat in the ring for this exciting giveaway, simply snap a photo or shoot a video of an out-of-home ad promoting Wanderland Neighborhood and share it on your Instagram or TikTok account. In your caption, don’t forget to tag @wanderlandfest and include the hashtags #WanderlandMusicFest and #WanderlandNeighborhood.
You’ll also need to answer the question: “Why do you want to experience Wanderland Festival?” Now, ensure that your account is set to public and that you’re following Wanderland’s social media pages. Hurry, as the deadline for entries is Sunday, Feb. 25. Keep your eyes peeled, as winners will be announced on Monday.
Beauty and Summer Beats
Watsons Club members are in for a treat. With a minimum single-receipt net purchase of participating products from the Watsons mobile app or online store, members can score a free Wanderland 2024 Day Pass.
Here’s how to score the ticket: First, ensure you’re a fully registered member of the Watsons Club. Then, open your Watsons App or visit the Watsons Website to start shopping for participating Health and Beauty products. Once you’ve reached a minimum spend of PHP 4,900 in a single receipt transaction, enter the promotion code WANDERLAND before checking out.
After completing your purchase with the promotion code, you’ll receive the Wanderland e-ticket with a QR code in the email address linked to your Watsons Club membership within one to seven business days. Act fast, as this promo period lasts until February 22, 2024!
Catch Flights (and a Free Ticket!)
Looking for a chance to win two Wanderland tickets without spending a dime? Simply book a domestic or international flight through Philippine Airlines before March 4, 2024. While you can catch multiple flights during the given period, keep in mind that you can only win once.
The lucky winners will be announced on March 5 via Zoom, with 20 winners selected from domestic passengers and five from international passengers. To claim your prize, prepared your government-issued ID to a Philippine Airlines representative via video call on Microsoft Teams for verification. Once confirmed, your Wanderland ticket will be sent directly to your email account. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to score for free—book your flight today!
If ever you miss these deals, no need to wander far—Wanderland tickets are still available at wanderlandfest.com.
A red flag to watch out for in any relationship is whenever you begin to change yourself just for your partner. While there’s nothing wrong with a couple of tweaks and adjustments here and there, it becomes a problem when you can no longer recognize who you are just for one person to like you. This unhealthy kind of love can be draining, and that’s something AleXa tackles head-on in her new single, sick. And the best part? She channels her energy through the unapologetic angst of pop-punk and rock-pop, a first for the artist.
MAKING ME SICK
AleXa is one of the most electric artists in K-pop right now. Aside from her bright and outspoken personality that has endeared her to many, the former PRODUCE48 contestant has given K-pop a needed jolt with exciting projects such as being the first K-pop artist to host a fan-meeting event in the metaverse via the FPS game Scavengers, being the first solo Korean artist to perform at iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball, and winning NBC’s American Song Contest in 2022. And her latest sonic exploration of her craft continues that trend.
sick delves into the all-too-relatable complexities of a toxic relationship, especially those relating to one-sided relationships. The raw and honest track expresses the universal struggle of feeling as if you don’t deserve the seemingly perfect partner to the point where it makes you sick. And AleXa tells it as it is as she embraces early 2000s pop-punk for a track that would make Avril Lavigne proud. It’s a new sound for the musician, but a bold and welcome one at that. AleXa kicks off her 2024 showcasing a new and more personal side to her artistry.
Before the release of sick, we got the chance to speak with AleXa as she opened up about her pop-punk influences, her new single, recent career highlights, and more. Read on for the full interview below.
You had quite the eventful 2023, including being the first solo Korean artist to perform at iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball. What was the experience like?
It was really fun being a part of the tour and I would give my left kidney to do so again.
Could you share the inspiration behind Sick?
We received a lot of songs for this album but the sound of ‘Sick’ seemed to be a good direction to go towards. It was actually produced by a team of really talented songwriters and producers that I’ve been lucky to work with, and I think the brilliance in the lyrics is in the fact that it can be up to interpretation by the listener. My personal interpretation of the lyrics are the complete opposite of its initial intent; I see the story of ‘Sick’ as the person you’re with/you love is so self-centered with a god-complex and it makes you sick.
Sick differs from your past releases as it sees you tap into your early 2000s pop-punk roots. Why did you feel that the track would serve as your vehicle to enter your pop-punk era?
I don’t personally classify ‘Sick’ as pop-punk, but more of soft rock-pop. My future releases delve more into the pop-punk feeling and atmosphere that I grew up listening to. This genre feels very organic and natural for me to experiment with, so I’m glad I’m finally releasing music that feels genuine.
How different was it to work on this song as compared to your past singles?
Singing in just one language lessened the burden of recording time haha.
Pop-punk has been seeing a resurgence in mainstream music as of late, as seen from young artists like Olivia Rodirgo. Why do you think the genre still remains relevant to the new generation?
The punk spirit is going to live on as long as an oppressive power exists over the general public. We don’t all want to listen to rules, abide by societal norms, and be told what to do. Being individualistic is something that is valued through the ages.
Which pop-punk artists would you love to collaborate with?
If My Chemical Romance came out of hiding, I would do a backflip off a cliff to collab with them.
What advice would you give to young people out there who may be struggling with finding that self-worth and confidence?
Stop listening to those who only have negative things to say; they’re unhappy with their lives and seek power by putting others down to make themselves feel bigger and better. It’s pathetic, really. Once you learn how to read someone, you’ll know when to close their book and put it back on the shelf when need be.
Many see you as one of the artists of the new generation breaking new ground in K-pop. Where do you see the genre going in 2024?
K-pop is such an expansive and ever-growing genre…there really is no saying where it’s headed…I just hope that every artist who puts in the work and has a genuine love for the art finds success.
If the AleXa who competed on PRODUCE 48 could see you now, what do you think she’d say?
She’d probably be surprised by how much my mindset has changed; I’m a lot happier with my current mindset and state of being than I was when I first moved here.
You’re going on tour this year in the US. What can fans expect from your show and will you be extending the tour outside the US?
Never before heard songs & sounds. Hoping to go global with part two, three, four, etc. of the tour.
If you could describe how you would want your 2024 to go in three words, what would those be?
Living in a time where we can take photos and videos in an instant enables us to hold on to cherished memories more easily. But what would happen if we suddenly stopped caring about them?
Yōko Ogawa’s The Memory Police is a novel that forces us to appreciate the value of something central to our very beings despite its nebulous nature: memory. With the help of translator Stephen Snyder, the book tells the chilling tale of an island where a mysterious, unexplained force causes its inhabitants to forget various objects, causing them to “disappear”. This disappearance is then violently enforced by the titular antagonist: the Memory Police.
In the age of AI, deep fakes, misinformation, and fake news, the war against historical revisionism and those who actively engage in it has just gotten much more difficult. Ogawa offers a view of propaganda and censorship that pierces straight into the heart for an extremely memorable and important read.
Loss as Indifference
While the book’s blurb on the back cover is a relatively accurate summation of its overarching plot, the actual narrative of The Memory Police might be different than you expect. The descriptor “draconian Memory Police” may summon in your mind images of civilians standing in helpless anguish as the oppressors commit their evils.
In the world of our unnamed narrator, the “forgetting” isn’t something that is felt. In fact, it is something that one identifies by the notable absence of feeling. When an object “disappears”, the islanders simply wake up to discover that an object (like a flower or a vegetable) that had previously been a huge part of their lives no longer has the power to elicit any feelings from them. They no longer feel any connection to them, no matter how central the object was to their waking moments. Then, the islanders are compelled by this lack of feeling to destroy the objects’ remains and the Memory Police do their rounds to ensure nothing is left behind. Eventually, the memories of the object (its appearance, its use, and even its name) completely vanish.
Why Caring Matters
The unique premise of this novel makes for an emotional reading experience, in spite of how nonchalant the attitude of the protagonist is towards the disappearances. This cognitive dissonance evokes the old adage: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing,” and speaks to the heart of what propaganda and misinformation does to us.
Bad things happen all the time, and sometimes the only healthy way to cope is to ignore them or not think about them. However, this desensitization can lead us down a dangerous path – one where we no longer question why things are happening and start only being concerned with how to move on. But if we only take action when the things that we personally care about are being directly affected, by then it might be too late to do anything at all and there will be no one left to stand with you.
Should you read The Memory Police?
Aside from being a well-crafted narrative that will hurt you and keep you wondering why things are happening and what will disappear next, it is unfortunate that this piece of art mirrors a dark part of our current reality. Today’s youth and its technology has the capability to keep the memories and stories of what’s most important to us alive. Remember: our memories are powerful. They are what make us.
Don’t forget that this coming 25th of February, which falls on a Sunday this year, is the EDSA People Power Anniversary.
As the curtain rises on the highly anticipated Miss Universe Philippines 2024 pageant, the moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived—the official lineup of MUPH has been unveiled, introducing the stunning candidates who will be vying for the coveted crown.
Set to succeed Michelle Dee and represent the country in the 73rd edition of Miss Universe in Mexico City, 55 beautiful ladies from different parts of the country were presented as official delegates of Miss Universe Philippines 2024. Excitement is at its peak for this year’s MUPH, especially with the removal of the age limit, allowing ten delegates to represent various Filipino communities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.
Now, it’s time to choose your favorite from our list of 10 candidates we’re keeping an eye on for Miss Universe Philippines 2024.
Ahtisa Manalo | Quezon Province
After securing the 1st runner-up position at Miss International 2018, beauty queen Ahtisa Manalo is back in the spotlight, proudly carrying the banner for Quezon Province in the upcoming Miss Universe Philippines 2024. In a lively chat with ABS-CBN News, Ahtisa shared her newfound strength, highlighting her knack for handling challenges with finesse.
“I can handle a lot more things in a better way. Being an entrepreneur has not only allowed me to utilize my skills but has also given me the insight to recognize the potential that the Miss Universe Philippines platform holds,” she said. Since then, fans have been eagerly cheering for her, hoping Ahtisa finally clinches the title.
Alexandra Mae Rosales | Laguna
In an anticipated comeback to the pageant circuit, Alexandra Mae Rosales of the Philippines holds the title of Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2022, stealing hearts with her fervent dedication to our furry friends.
Beyond the runway, Miss Laguna 2024 runs her own on-the-go grooming and veterinary services, proving she’s a true advocate for animal welfare—and she’s set on a mission to make responsible pet ownership a lifestyle. From fun educational activities to practical resources, Alexandra ensures pet owners embrace their role in providing TLC to their four-legged pals, all while strutting with style and compassion.
Alexie Brooks | Iloilo
At MUPH 2024, it’s not just about beauty and brains—Filipino fans are rooting for brawn and the inspiring backstory of Alexie Brooks. Raised by her grandmother, Miss Iloilo’s life has been far from the glamour of pageantry, trading tiaras for a stint as a vegetable vendor and dominating the field as a national athlete.
But what truly sets her apart? If she clinches the coveted crown, she’ll make history as the first Miss Universe Philippines heptathlete, showcasing the power of resilience and determination in the pursuit of her dreams.
Anita Rose Gomez | Zambales
Beyond the buzz surrounding her viral vital statistics as a Miss Universe Philippines 2024 candidate, Anita Rose Gomez captivates hearts for reasons far beyond aesthetics and #bodygoals. Miss Zambales isn’t just a fashion-forward beauty; she’s the heart and soul of outreach programs, notably the Para Kay Juan At Juana Project. In the midst of all the glitz and glamour, Gomez is out there making a real difference. Let’s be honest, beauty isn’t just about measurements; it’s about the impact you make.
Chelsea Manalo | Bulacan
Chelsea Manalo is breaking barriers and taking names. Beyond her captivating beauty, Miss Bulacan is fueled by relentless determination to combat discrimination as a black Filipino-American. She stands as a beacon of change, a candidate spearheading a revolution in the pursuit of equality.
In a world where diversity is the heartbeat of progress, Chelsea emerges as a powerful force, challenging stereotypes and reshaping the narrative of what it means to be Miss Universe Philippines 2024.
Christi McGarry | Taguig
Christi McGarry is a powerhouse, shattering norms as the only Filipina to grace the Miss Intercontinental stage not once, but twice. At 34, she’s not merely gliding down the catwalk; she’s an advocate for environmental sustainability, proving that beauty and purpose go hand in hand.
Beyond being a strong presence on the stage, Miss Taguig emerges as an ambassador for a greener world. Get ready to witness a journey where every step is a testament to breaking boundaries and embracing a future where glamour meets global responsibility.
Dia Maté | Cavite
In the whirlwind of 2024, Dia Maté is booked and busy. Not only is she making waves as an OPM singer-songwriter, but Miss Cavite is also bringing a trifecta of beauty, talent, and a significant advocacy to the table. While she predominantly immerses herself in the world of music, her passion extends beyond the stage.
Dia has found a harmonious intersection between her musical prowess and volunteer work at Cribs Foundation Inc., where she teaches music to children. As she strikes the chords of both melody and compassion, Dia Mate stands as a testament to the profound impact one can make when talents are blended with a heartfelt commitment to uplifting others.
Kayla Carter | North California
Meet Kayla Carter, the dynamic delegate representing one of the Filipino communities abroad. Hailing from Northern California, with a distinctive Fil-Am flair, she is set to bring nothing short of infectious energy to the stage.
However, it’s not all about the spotlight for Kayla, as she is deeply committed to empowering Filipino youth and is driven by her passion for education. With roots firmly planted, this Cebuana’s limitless spirit is poised to shine brighter than the summers of California and the Philippines.
Stacey Gabriel | Cainta
Straight out of Cainta, Stacey Gabriel makes a striking entrance, capturing hearts with her dedication to three advocacies. In an interview, Stacey shares her hopes to create more compassion in this world through the power of storytelling. “At the core of each of my endeavors is my heart for mental health, prison reform, and climate justice—these causes are my true north,” she said.
In a world grappling with pressing issues, her commitment to these causes showcases her understanding of the urgent need for collective efforts in preserving what matters most and making the world a better place. With her powerful presence and infectious enthusiasm, she is on a mission to inspire and empower.
Victoria Velasquez Vincent | Bacoor
Get ready to be swept off your feet by the one and only Victoria Velasquez Vincent, affectionately known as Triple V! With her boundless commitment to charity, she’s not just here to steal your heart—Miss Bacoor is ready to snatch the coveted crown and spread some compassion in a world that is craving positivity.
Beyond her regal charm, the titleholder for Miss Universe Philippines Charity in 2021 stands as a testament to the power of using our platforms for good, tirelessly working to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
