“Nothing new to watch” will not be in your vocabulary this month imo.

Related: Catch These New Movies And Shows This August 2024

Do you hear that? It’s the sound of Christmas lights defrosting and Holiday tunes being added to mall playlists now that it’s the start of the Ber months. But Christmas is still months away, so let’s focus on the here and now because there’s a lot to look forward to this September, at least on the new movies and shows front. Get a peek at the media and entertainment options for the month below. 

KINDS OF KINDNESS

After the success of Poor Things, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone are back for another mind-bending dark comedy. This film features a triptych fable following a man without choice who tries to take control of his own life, a policeman who is alarmed that his wife who was missing at sea has returned and seems a different person, and a woman determined to find a specific someone with a special ability who is destined to become a prodigious spiritual leader. You don’t have to wait long to catch this as it’s now streaming on Disney+.

LAVENDER FIELDS

Whenever mother Jodi Sta. Maria has a new teleserye, we’re watching. And her latest project sees her do what she does best: get justice from the people who wronged her. The show centers on a flower farmer who starts a relationship with a wealthy man. But unbeknownst to her, he’s married, and what’s worse is that she gets pregnant. Following a failed attempt on her life, she decides to re-emerge with newfound influence to find her child and get revenge. Lavender Fields is now airing nightly on ABS-CBN and Netflix.  

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE

Did someone say sequel to a decades-old classic? Three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River after an unexpected family tragedy. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and a portal to the Afterlife is opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem. See how this unfolds as the movie is now screening in local cinemas. 

SPEAK NO EVIL

One thing about James McAvoy, he’s going to eat up a horror movie role. This American remake of the acclaimed 2022 Danish horror film of the same name centers on an American family who meets and befriends a charming British family while on a weekend in their idyllic country estate. A dream holiday ensues, but it soon warps into a psychological nightmare as not everything is what it seems. The intense suspense thriller screams in cinemas this September 11. 

HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES

Missed the movie when it was in cinemas or are curious why everyone was talking about this Thai drama last June? Well, you’re in luck as the movie is making its way to Netflix this September 12. Now, you can enjoy this tale of a college dropout who cares for his ailing grandmother with hopes of earning her inheritance in the comfort of your own home. 

TRANSFORMERS ONE

Transformers movies in their redemption arc? We love to see it. This animated tale tells the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, who were once friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever. In the first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, Transformers One will give viewers a look into how it all started, including how their legendary rivalry began. Experience it for yourself when it plays in local cinemas this September 18. 

CORALINE 15TH ANNIVERSARY

No, you don’t have buttons over your eyes. Coraline, the 2009 acclaimed animated film, is coming back to cinemas for a special limited-time run with a re-release for its 15th anniversary. You can see it in theaters exclusively at Robinsons Movieworld cinemas from September 18-30.   

I AM STILL

The BTS content just keeps on coming. This time, it’s a documentary that captures Jungkook’s whirlwind solo debut in 2023 and showcases his eight months of career achievements and growth. It will play in cinemas nationwide starting September 18. 

AGATHA ALL ALONG

After lowkey stealing the show in WandaVision, Agatha Harkness is back in this mini-series. It follows the witch on her journey to reclaim her powers all while working alongside a mysterious goth teen and a rag-tag group of witches. Where does this all lead to? Find out when the two-episode premiere drops on Disney+ on September 18. 

THE PENGUIN

Speaking of show spin-offs to popular comic book adaptations, this series centers on Oswald Cobblepot, aka The Penguin, after the events of The Batman. Following Gotham being flooded with water, The Penguin looks to increase his influence and take over the city, all while battling other ambitious villains wanting the same prize. It streams on Max starting September 19. 

THE SUBSTANCE 

Horror fans, you might want to keep this on your radar. This body horror movie follows a woman in her 50s whose star has waned over the years. Looking to revitalize her career, she agrees to a proposal where, if she takes a mysterious substance, she becomes a younger and more beautiful version of herself. You can probably imagine what happens next. Following its electric debut at Cannes last May, the movie now hits local cinemas this September 25.  

WOLFS 

George Clooney and Brad Pitt reunite on the big screen in this drama-action-comedy about two professional fixers forced to put aside their differences and work together after being hired for the same job. If you want to watch this team-up, head to Apple TV+ when it drops on the streaming service on September 27. 

APARTMENT 7A

If you ever saw Rosemary’s Baby and thought, “Hmm, I would love to watch a prequel about this,” your wish has been granted. This prequel film sees Julie Garner step into the role of Terry Gionffrio (aka the woman who dies at the start of Rosemary’s Baby), a young woman who moves to NYC with the hopes of fulfilling her dream of being a ballerina. But after she rents a room from an elderly couple who promises to give her what she wants, Terry soon realizes she’s entered a nightmare. The movie streams on Paramount+ and comes to digital video on demand on September 27.  

NEW SEASONS

Emily In Paris Season 4 Part 2 (September 12), Gyeongseong Creature Season 2 (September 27)

Continue Reading: Got Nothing New To Watch This July 2024? We’ve Got You Covered

ICYDK, Esnyr and BINI Maloi are textmates, among other fun tidbits the Gen Z content creator spilled.

Related: Spill It: Esnyr Ranollo Knows About How Gen Z Slang Can Change The World

If you follow Esnyr Ranollo on TikTok or watch any of his skits, you know the content creator is a riot. His late-night livestreams with his rotating list of guests on the app are lowkey enough for us to get our daily dose of happiness. He’s one of our go-to creators who gets the Gen Z vibe and can make the best of any laro behavior. 

This is just one of the many reasons why we chose Esnyr to be the cover star of our August 2024 Lingo Issue. What better way to celebrate Gen Z slang and the power of self-expression than an icon who never misses the mark. Esnyr really did that from how he started making videos in his room to doing full-blown productions that are viewed by millions. And it’s this fun Gen Z energy that many have come to love Esnyr for that takes center stage on the latest episode of Dare-Z.

PUTUKAN NA

When you combine the excitement of popping balloons and doing dares, the adrenaline of competition, and the pressure of being timed, you get a frenetic ride. Add Esnyr’s animated personality, and you bet we aren’t stepping out of the ride anytime soon. For the second episode of Dare-Z, our game show testing our cover stars’ ability to pop balloons in the fastest time possible, Esnyr steps into the gauntlet, blonde mane and all. 

He pops balloons like it’s nobody’s business and gamely answers juicy questions and spicy dares, which include revealing what he texts to BINI Maloi, who he is manifesting as a love interest on his High School Crush series (hint: his name starts with a D), and creating his own Gen Z slang term. We don’t want to spoil too much, but let’s just say we might be saying “Precious” a lot more soon. 

See how Esnyr does in the most chaotically Gen Z game of Truth or Dare and if he beats SB19’s Justin to top the leaderboards by watching the full episode below.

If you want to continue the fun, order your copy of the MyZine print pack featuring Esnyr now here.

Continue Reading: Mothering a Cover: The Fashion Behind Esnyr Ranollo’s Lingo Look   

A lot of the “Gen Z” terms, slang phrases, and lingo we see and use have roots in minority communities, and these words have meaning beyond their Urban Dictionary definitions.

Related: Spill It: Esnyr Ranollo Knows About How Gen Z Slang Can Change The World

Do you ever wonder where the popular slang you keep hearing everywhere comes from? How is everyone suddenly saying the same phrase? Social media has allowed trendy phrases to circulate fast, far, and wide, adding to our lexicon and changing the way we communicate. But how does “Gen Z slang” come about, exactly?

Calling it “millennial,” “Gen Z,” “Gen Alpha” slang isn’t technically wrong, as those age groups each have their own vernacular, marked by certain slang, but not all of these terms are just random words that gained popularity on TikTok. Most slang originates or gains traction from certain minority communities, particularly queer and Black communities, and are intrinsically connected to their collective and cultural identity.

From lowkey to mother, slay kween to danas, kemerut to keri, Beki language to AAVE, the popular language we use has deeper connotations that must be acknowledged in order to avoid crossing the line into cultural appropriation and willful ignorance of the impact marginalized groups have on culture, language, and society.

ROOT WORDS

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A post shared by Adam Aleksic (@etymologynerd)

No, it’s not just “internet slang” or “Gen Z speak.” A lot of the terminologies, phrases, and lingo that are prevalent and popular online have origins in queer and minority culture.

In the same way, the practice of Filipino “tadbalik” (baliktad) or reversing the letters and syllables of popular words of the last several decades like dabarkads (barkada), werpa (power), and even deins (hindi), has roots in Filipino culture of the 1970s to 1990s.

Tadbalik was also said to be rampant among anti-martial law and anti-Marcos youth during the era, providing them a way to communicate despite state censorship and fear of the consequences from speaking out about the government. Like other slang terms and lingo, such language has influenced songs, modern slang, and many other aspects of life and society.

@kuya_kimatienza 70s language or "tadbalik" has become part of the Pinoy lexicon. So many present words have their roots in 70s Jeprox, Hippy-dom. Enjoy ka lang tol! #learnitontiktokph #LearnOnTikTok #kuyakim #fyp #foryou #kuyakimanona #longervideo #dapatalammo ♬ Magsayawan – VST & Company

As culture and language are inherently interconnected, the words and slang that a certain community uses is also tied to their experiences, struggles, and the oppression they face. Language is an aspect of their cultural identity that now, more often than ever, crosses over into the mainstream, for better or for worse.

Today, much of the slang words and lingo we see and use stem from gay lingo, and on a larger global scale, from the ballroom scene of the 1960’s and 1970’s. From “charot” to “very demure” to “forda” to many, many more, these slang words have been used and popularized by queer creators and the queer community. We as a wider society come to add them to our own lexicon for one reason or another. “Beki talk”, from the Filipino gay community, is an institution in and of itself—how many times have we as Filipinos used the words “besh,” “bongga,” or “chika”?

Media and social media have allowed such slang and lingo to pervade beyond the community that uses and popularizes it, too. Like Jools Lebron with “very demure,” from Forda Ferson to Queen Dura, queer creators, particularly on TikTok, use a word or phrase, and eventually it reaches a wider population. We no longer have to be within the “inner circle,” so to speak, to be exposed to the language.

@filipintabeauty

For the last day of Buwan ng Wika (Filipino Language month), we are highlighting the ever-evolving, wonderfully creative Beki Talk, or Filipino gay lingo! Beki talk has become a language on its own and is used in everyday conversation, as it is now deeply ingrained in our culture. Thank you to our friends for taking time to help create this video!! 🥺💜🌈

♬ original sound – Filipinta Beauty

African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) is also another widely-discussed aspect of modern language, and its use by non-Black people is often more criticized for very valid reasons. For instance, “finna,” “chile,” “on fleek,” are all AAVE, originating from and popularized by the African-American community.

Language that an oppressed minority group uses is often used to other and oppress them even further, and a wider, more dominant population using something that a minority group created often leads to such language being appropriated and then misidentified as simply “Gen Z language.” When Black people use this kind of language, they’re deemed inappropriate or improper—in a similar way Gen Z is when they use popular slang terms—but when it’s adopted by the larger population, suddenly it’s okay?

@kahlilgreene Repost if part 5 of my #AAVE series #hiddenhistory #culturalappropriation ♬ original sound – Gen Z Historian

Power is also a factor when the wider audience co-opts this language in order to seem like they’re cooler, more cultured. It can also easily come off as mocking. This kind of language mainstreaming often removes the slang from its context and origins—hence why it’s less than ideal to simply call all such language just “internet slang” or “Gen Z slang” without acknowledging where it comes from. Some “gay lingo” is even taken from AAVE, so slang is really such a linguistic rocky road to traverse and yes, worthy of theses and dissertations.

As for another case, the use of the N-word is deemed offensive because it’s a racial slur that’s tied to the centuries-long and ongoing struggle of Black people and communities—same with the F-slur. But so many people, from Filipinos to East Asians to Asian-Americans, are often called out for saying it so frequently and appropriating a culture that’s not theirs. Reclaiming language like the N-word and the F-slur for the queer community is their prerogative, and invites further discussion, but for the most part, we understand why those words can’t just be thrown around by anybody, anywhere, at any time.

DRAWING WRITING THE LINE

seeing the appropriation of black queer lingo in real time isn’t surprising but so dissapointing

— ✿HE/THEY✿ (@matrizora) November 3, 2021

At the end of the day, it all boils down to consideration and respect. Words have power, as well as a deeper meaning beyond their definitions. No matter how casually they are used, no matter how popular they are, they have weight, history, and context behind them. For the most part, knowing that and knowing when to not cross a line is enough.

Though it’s standard practice for society to adopt new words and phrases—organic language fusion—and there’s really nothing inherently wrong with using words like “very demure” or “eme” or “forda”—people do have a tendency to cross the line into appropriation. For instance, non-Black public figures face backlash from adopting vernacular and speech (the “blaccent”) associated with Black culture, and brands are criticized for co-opting slang from these communities but are known to not support or pay any mind to them otherwise.

calling it “gen z slang” is crazy pic.twitter.com/oF6wB0xQYG

— Hurt CoPain (@SaeedDiCaprio) March 9, 2023

Words often take on a life of their own, and are spread faster than we think. Acknowledging and respecting that some slang and lingo are inherently tied to the community from which they spawned is a way to acknowledge, honor, and respect that community’s existence, history, and struggles.

It is a way to let the world know that these “minority” communities have tremendous impact, and should not be disregarded or marginalized the way they are. How many people using slang and interjections know their origins? And not in a pseudo-intellectual, I’m-better-than-you-for-knowing-this kind of way, but rather in a way that recognizes how minority communities have the power to shape culture in spite of the fact that their power and position in society are often dismissed or even taken away.

But it’s difficult to reach common ground regarding who gets to use certain words. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, and people from both the minority communities slang terms come from and outside have varying perspectives regarding this aspect of language. A lot of the time, it does come down to how you use it, why you use it, and what kind of message you are trying to impart.

“The line between organic language fusion and cultural appropriation is thin and barbed with institutionalized oppression,” Eleanor Tremeer writes in Babbel. “…Tread carefully, and when people say you’ve stepped over that line, listen to them—and step back.”

Order your copy of the NYLON Manila Lingo MyZine Issue print pack now featuring our cover star Esnyr and stories and worksheets all about slang and lingo HERE.

Continue Reading: Filipino Indigenous Languages Take Center Stage At These Events

In need of a break from adulting? Check out these parks and playgrounds that are perfect for blowing off some steam—and maybe even getting a little sand in your shoes.

Related: 6 New Spots To Check Out For The Next Barkada Hangout

Remember the pure happiness we get at playgrounds—the rush of wind as you swung higher and higher, the thrill of the slide, and the endless imagination that turned every climb into an adventure? As adults, we often lose touch with these carefree moments amidst the daily grind. We swap out playgrounds for office desks and weekend chores, forgetting that a bit of play can work wonders for our mental well-being. Maybe you’ve even daydreamed about reliving those childhood thrills at places like Kidzooona or Kidz Republic, only to discover you’re stuck playing the role of guardian, not participant.

But don’t worry—reclaiming that sense of wonder doesn’t have to be a distant memory. Metro Manila offers some adult-approved playgrounds that blend nostalgia with modern fun—from trampoline parks to actual playgrounds designed for grown-ups. If you’re ready to rediscover your playful side, check out these fantastic destinations to heal your inner child.

Dream Lab

It’s never too late to learn something new, especially when it’s as fun as it is educational! At Dream Lab, located at Ayala Malls Makati, you’ll find the biggest business simulation playground, where both kids and adults can dive into their entrepreneurial dreams. Picture this: you’re whipping up your own pizza or painting a one-of-a-kind pot—activities that turn family bonding into an exciting adventure.

With prices starting at just PHP 899 for three activities, it’s the perfect way to mix play with purpose. So, whether you’re looking for a new weekend hangout or a unique way to spend time with your family, Dream Lab is like stepping into a real-life episode of Shark Tank but with way more laughs and way less stress.

Gootopia

Get ready to get your hands messy and let your inner child run wild—Gootopia is the place to be! With branches in SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Fairview, this playground invites you to dive headfirst into slime-filled obstacles that will have you laughing like a kid again.

For PHP 699 per person with a reservation (or PHP 799 for walk-ins), you can plunge into a world of gooey goodness that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is entertaining. And the cherry on top? If you conquer the slime challenges, you’ll get to take home your very own Slime Kit. Because let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to brag about being a slime champion?

Roller Disco

Ready, set, skate! If you’re up for a Throwback Thursday, head over to Roller Disco, a retro-themed skating rink that recently expanded to Malabon from Fisher Mall. Although it’s not your typical playground, this spot is all about active fun. With its engineered floor, funky lights, and groovy soundtracks, Roller Disco offers a smooth skating experience perfect for freestyle moves with friends.

Classes and activities start at just PHP 150, making it an affordable way to get moving, channel your inner disco dancer, and enjoy a flashback to the roller rinks of the past.

Trampoline Park Philippines

For those eager to bounce their way to pure joy, Trampoline Park Philippines is your ultimate high-flying escape. This unique venue is all about trampoline workouts, blending fitness and fun into an exhilarating experience for adults—we’re thinking Gravity Parkour, Gravity Fitness, and Gravity Aerodance. Imagine diving, jumping, and soaring across trampolines, or challenging your friends to the highest dunk worthy of an NBA highlight reel.

And when it’s time for a break, dive into a pit of a thousand foam cubes that can cushion your fall like a fluffy cloud. Whether you’re booking a weekday escape or a weekend thrill, you’ve got up to two hours to let loose and enjoy some liberating, energetic fun right in the city’s center at The Portal in Greenfield District.

SuperPark Philippines

At SuperPark Philippines, the thrill never stops. This multi-activity wonderland fuses technology with movement to create an interactive playground that caters to all ages. Picture yourself shooting hoops, scaling rock walls, and flying high on massive trampolines—all under one roof.

With branches in Eastwood and McKinley, and tickets at PHP 650 for two hours of non-stop action, it’s the perfect place to unleash your inner child and get your heart racing. Think of it as stepping into your favorite video game—minus the screen, but with all the adrenaline!

Continue Reading: Plan Your Family or Barkada’s Holiday Itinerary With These Fun-Filled Activities

There’s never been a better time for P-pop than now, and these idol groups know when one rises, they all do, too.

Related: Here’s What Went Down With SB19, BINI, And More At Billboard Korea K POWER 100

From championing Philippine excellence on the global stage to acknowledging the talent and skills of fellow artists, our P-pop idols are blazing trails not just in the music industry, but in the entire pop culture scene. People can say that the P-pop scene is getting oversaturated all they want, but talented Pinoy artists getting the spotlight is still a great sight to see.

P-pop rise is a thrilling sentiment that encapsulates how the genre and the artists pioneering it are finding success among the local and global population. A lot of stans of one group are also stans of other P-pop groups, so it’s par for the course that they’d be supporting P-pop rise, but one unique and heartwarming thing we witness is how these P-pop groups support each other.

A lot of them are friends and/or labelmates, too, so it’s nice to see how they acknowledge the success of one P-pop group as something that pushes them all forward. “P-pop is a revolution,” AJ of G22 said in a press conference. “Not a competition.”

@arixsb19 Now this is the PPOP rise that I remember :)) #sb19 #sb19_pablo #PPOP #ppoprise #fypシ゚viral #fyp #xybca ♬ original sound – ari. 🌽🌭🍓 – ari. ⚠️

From doing TikTok challenges to showing support when a group gets a W, these are just a few instances where P-pop groups and P-pop idols hyped each other up and championed “P-pop rise” all together.

EATING UP EACH OTHER’S CHALLENGES

@alamat.official Happy Anniversary ALAMAT, and Belated Happy Anniversary BINI!! here's a little treat Blooms, and mga Magiliw!! ✨ #AlamatDayAndNightDC #BINI_PantropikoDC ♬ original sound – ALAS DA GREAT

Though it’s overall not a rare sight to see idols collab on TikTok dances (walking through the backstage areas of Inkigayo must be like an obstacle course of idols dancing together) or dance to each other’s songs (who hasn’t danced to GENTO in this industry?), it’s fun to see how interconnected the P-pop industry is and how close the idols have grown.

@bini_ph #BINI : Praying #BiNiLaXon is havey. 🤔 Pero promise this next #BINI_KareraDC is The Beast collab ng mga pang-Kasmala-kasang friendships in P-pop! Our best girls with P-pop buddies @VXON and our @ALAMAT BFF @Jao in one video!🔥 Stream #BINI_Karera, #BiniLat #BiXon #BiNiLaXon Fam! 🎧 orcd.co/karerabini #BINI_OctoBestExperience #tiktokmusikat #soundsofsea #pop #viral #explore #TikTok #Tiktokph #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #foryourpage #tiktokviral #viralvideo #trending ♬ BINI Karera – BINI PH

Whether their relationship is similar to a sunbae–hoobae dynamic or total besties (we see you, BINILAT), watching their TikToks is like having a real-time view on the growing and diversifying industry and the friendships and support systems being formed.

@hori7onofficial HORI7ON x SB19 Finally meet‼️❤️‍🔥🤩 #HORI7ON #호라이즌 #KYLER #카일러 #WINSTON #윈스턴 #SIX7EEN #SB19 #SB19_PABLO #SB19_JUSTIN ♬ SIX7EEN – HORI7ON(호라이즌)

For instance, how cool is it to see SB19 and HORI7ON, two Filipino groups both embodying the bridging of the local to the global but are at different stages in their career, finally meet each other and collaborate on a TikTok video—backstage at the 2023 Asia Artist Awards, no less?

COLLABS ON COLLABS

We’ve got covers, we’ve got original songs, we’ve got stages and performances, we’ve got TikTok comedy skits—you name it, and two or more P-pop group have most likely done it together. Our P-pop groups aren’t afraid to go beyond TikTok and maximize their joint slays, from brand deals to musical collaborations they wanted to pursue.

@officialsb19 YES! We are litmitless 🔥 💚 @g22official #SB19 #G22 ♬ Limitless – Acer Philippines & G22

SB19’s Josh Cullen and ALAMAT’s Mo are even collaborating on a song on Josh’s solo album!

Labelmates Franz of VXON and AJAA have worked together on songs, too. Franz co-wrote and co-produced AJAA’s songs Torpe, HANY, and BES I LUV U. Our local idols are very much down to collaborate with each other—just give them the chance!

FESTAS AND FESTIVALS

We’ve got no shortage of P-pop concerts and festivals these days! These events are such prime opportunities to see our fave idol groups support each other.

@oohjcs Collab stage of PPOP Groups singing What? by ONE & ONLY SB19. now this is what we call P-POP video from watsonsph #SB19 #SB19_PABLO #SB19_JOSH #SB19_STELL #SB19_KEN #SB19_JUSTIN #fyp ♬ What? – SB19

This is our Avengers: Endgame. SB19, HORI7ON, KAIA, ALAMAT, and G22 all onstage performing What? by SB19 at Watson’s Playlist 2024 was an epic encapsulation of P-pop rising. Their collab stage was a pride-inducing representation of the growing industry and the hard work these idols did to get to where they are now.

@reystervids part two of hori7on's interactions with other ppop groups ♡ clips from: jaysonlomboy binchibeh Happyginger17 #hori7on #sb19 #kaia #alamat #watsonsplaylist #fyp ♬ original sound – reystervids

From on-stage kulitan to backstage chikahan, the P-pop idols at the event showed nothing but love and support for each other as they did their thing and brought the roof down with their performances.

A GRAND SEND-OFF

And today is such a historic day for PPOP as our brothers from @SB19Official and our sisters from @BINI_ph proudly raise our flag as Filipinos, showcasing the power and talent of the PPOP community at @billboardkorea's Billboard Power K 100! Mabuhay ang PPOP! #PPOPRise! 🇵🇭🫶🏻 https://t.co/IFK7SevsE0

— G22 Official (@G22Official) August 27, 2024

Today marks a historic event for PPOP as our brothers from @SB19Official and sisters from @BINI_ph proudly wave the Filipino flag. They’re showcasing the strength and talent of the PPOP community at @billboardkorea’s Billboard Power K 100!

Cheers to PPOP’s success! #PPOPRise https://t.co/cWoGayO8D0

— ALAMAT ᜀᜎᜋᜆ᜔ ☝🏽🤎 (@Official_ALAMAT) August 27, 2024

As SB19 and BINI went off to South Korea to attend Billboard Korea’s K POWER 100 and accept the Voices of Asia award, along with other regional Asian artists, G22 and ALAMAT were vocal about their support for the P-pop pioneers. In turn, both groups also shouted out their fellow groups and the P-pop movement during the event in a warm moment of solidarity.

Although we know fandom spaces, particularly in P-pop, are fraught with fanwars and even in-fighting, there’s a bigger picture to look at. Our P-pop idols have shown each other plenty of support and love as they do their own thing, waving the Philippine flag, and it’s good to follow suit! We don’t need to stan every P-pop group and idol out there, but ALAMAT is totally right—the rise of one is the rise of all. Filipino excellence is taking the stage in ways it never has before, and we can only be excited for what’s next.

Continue Reading: BINI And SB19 Are Showing What P-pop Excellence Looks Like In Korea 7 Times BINI and ALAMAT Proved They Were Besties In P-pop

Maris Racal better secure that best actress bag while supporting women’s advocacies in the Philippines.

Related: 4 Reasons Why Antoinette Jadaone’s Latest Movie, ‘Sunshine’, Already Has Our Attention 

Maris Racal has always been that girl. No matter the project and whether she’s alone or with a love team partner, the star has proven to be adept at taking on every role that is given to her. This year alone, Maris gagged audiences as Irene Tiu on Can’t Buy Me Love, started a new popular love team with Anthony Jennings, and was a scene-stealer on Marupok A+. We’ll never tire of giving her her flowers. And the Maris hype train continues with her latest movie, Sunshine. 

HERE FOR ACTRESS MARIS RACAL 

Recently, social media was abuzz when the trailer for Sunshine dropped. For those of you part of Filipino cinephile Twitter, you’d know that the movie was already building hype given that it comes from the mind of Antoinette Jadaone. And our first look at the movie backed it up. Aside from the fact that it was a well-made trailer, it also gave us a closer look into its story. 

Sunshine follows a young gymnast named Sunshine Francisco (Maris Racal) who has a bright future ahead of her in the sport. But her world falls apart when she discovers she’s pregnant just before the national team tryouts. In her desperation, she seeks out an abortion and comes face-to-face with a conservative society bent on preventing her from doing so. 

Understandably, many praised Maris for how she’s set to deliver another stand-out role in her discography. Sunshine gives the actress a vehicle and more room to showcase her skills. That scene of her emoting on the jeepney had many feeling seen and heard. Those jumps, flips, and splits were all Maris, who trained with actual gymnasts for the role. The trailer was less than two minutes, but we can already feel Maris is going to eat it up. The hype she’s getting online is proof that she is deserving of the moment. Even non-Filipino locals were talking about the trailer. 

And the fact that she filmed the movie at the same time she was filming Can’t Buy Me Love, yeah, we know a mother when we see one. Adding to the pedigree of Sunshine is the caliber of its cast, which includes Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, and Jennica Garcia. Also, the film marks Maris Racal and Antoinette Jadaone’s third project and first movie together. Lowkey it’s giving another iconic director-actor pairing like Greta Gerwig and Saoirse Ronan.   

FOR THE GIRLS 

While it’s nice seeing a lot of the discourse around Sunshine revolve around Maris owning the screen, what’s also commendable about the movie is its subject matter. It centers around teenage pregnancy and abortion in the Philippines, two serious issues facing Filipinas yet rarely get the proper discourse and attention it needs. Notice how in the trailer when Sunshine confronts the boy who impregnated her, he just asked if it was his and shrugged it off, while she has to deal with the life-changing consequences of an unplanned pregnancy. 

Movies will always be a form of entertainment, but it’s also great when films ground their stories on real-life issues. That’s the case for this movie which explores the challenges faced by pregnant women in the Philippines where proper healthcare options, especially for young women going through a crisis, are lacking.

This much is true for Maris, who dedicated the movie to a woman’s right to decide about their bodies. “Para ito sa kababaihan at sa kanilang karapatang magpasya para sa sarili at sa kanilang katawan,” she wrote on Instagram. Not only is Maris coming for that best actress bag, but she’s also using her platform as an A-list star to advocate for women’s reproductive rights in the Philippines, something you rarely see in the country. You know when an actor combines their talents with advocacy, they’re worth stanning. 

At the same time, Sunshine will also spotlight the challenges athletes face in gymnastics in the country as the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines partnered with the filmmakers to ensure an accurate representation of the sport. It’s a timely topic given recent events. It all comes together for a movie about a young gymnast in an underfunded sport who is pushed to extremes in a misogynistic society. 

Sunshine is set to premiere this September at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, where it will be a part of TIFF’s Centrepiece program. While Maris sadly can’t make it (and we hope that changes because she highkey needs to be there), Antoinette Jadaone will be in Toronto to present the thought-provoking piece. There’s no release date in the Philippines, but fingers crossed it comes to local cinemas soon. 

Continue Reading: 7 Maris Racal Performances That Are The Definition Of Scene-Stealer

Showing appreciation through gifts is one thing, but giving someone a living thing to take care of out of the blue is a whole ‘nother story.

Related: PSA: Respect Your Idols’ Privacy & Personal Time And Space—They’re People, Too

Fans giving gifts to their faves or idols is an age-old practice. From heartfelt letters to amusing toys, plenty of fans often give public figures items to show their appreciation. Whether they see each other on the street, at events, or during fanmeets or at concerts, fans hand over everything from small items to huge ones. But when does it go too far?

Recently, fan gifting has been a hot topic of discussion because of a BINI fan that gave member Aiah a puppy, sparking talks and think pieces on giving away live animals to public figures who have incredibly busy schedules.

aiah receiving the baby goldie!! she’s so adorable i love her so much 😭 pic.twitter.com/yOKDjHgy0S

— ִֶָ (@vitaiahmin) August 30, 2024

Well-aware of how much she loves dogs, the BLOOM handed Aiah a puppy during a brand event where the members were in attendance. Once the videos hit social media, discourse immediately started as people were critical of fans giving a whole living thing to somebody who may not be able to take care of it.

Though it’s known that the P-pop girl group member loves dogs and seems to be responsible enough, placing such responsibility on her shoulders so suddenly was perhaps not the most considerate thing to do—no matter how good the fan’s intentions were.

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

ADVISORY.

Everyone is welcome to coordinate with the BINI Official Fanbases about giving gifts to the members. Our apologies if we are not able to respond to your queries immediately. But, we assure you that we will cater all your questions and concerns.

Thank you. pic.twitter.com/VWiA6D7FLN

— BINI AIAH OFC (@BiniAiahOFC) August 31, 2024

This isn’t the first and only instance an idol was gifted a pet. SB19’s Justin was also gifted an albino turtle during a schedule where he was interacting with fans. Though these idols appreciate it, it’s not a practice we should normalize.

A pet isn’t a simple present like a letter or a stuffed toy—those don’t require the person to take care of a living thing. A pet needs proper care, attention, living situations, play time, and more. Getting a pet is a huge responsibility, and anyone who gets one needs to be aware of the time, commitment, and care it requires.

owning a pet is a huge responsibility. you can't just hand over a dog or a cat to someone, especially not to your idol, just because they said they wanted one. she said herself that the management kept saying no when she tried to give the dog to Aiah + https://t.co/sSylwhcGgS

— alagad ng bini (@frvreight_) August 31, 2024

We know that giving someone a gift can stem from a lot of reasons, selfless or otherwise. We also know that love can be communicated through gifts. But before you give your idol a gift, consider a lot of factors—is it something they can use or cherish? Will it most likely end up as junk? Do they need it or would they even want it? If it’s a living thing, can they take care of it? Also, why are you giving it to them, anyway? Do you think they’re truly in need of it? Do you just want something for them to remember you by, or do you just want the clout?

Gifting live animals is a little rarer than gifting items, so of course it requires a lot more consideration on our end as a fan. Although, to be fair, gifting someone an iPhone also requires a lot of critical thinking—how much does that set you back financially?

This is not a reminder but a request.

Thank you! pic.twitter.com/BwVI8S4vMV

— BLOOM PHILIPPINES (@TEAMBLOOMPH) August 31, 2024

In any case, “big” gifts need a lot of consideration. Most of the time, you don’t know if your idol can appreciate your gift fully for one reason or another. When in doubt, there are channels you can reach out to so you can connect with your idol and their management to inquire if they’re willing to accept your gift.

The BLOOM who gifted Aiah the puppy said that they did reach out to BINI’s management beforehand, and was ignored the first time and denied the second time—which brings us to another aspect of the conversation: how do we know it’s time to give it up?

KNOW THE BOUNDARIES

Eto yung statement nung nagbigay ng dog kay aiah since naka private na si teh..mainis kayong lahat! https://t.co/Atc444AeW4 pic.twitter.com/AUyh2YXtv6

— zelle (@aiahsified) September 1, 2024

No matter how well you think you know an idol, you are still strangers. You are not family, you are not a friend, you are not someone who knows their character inside and our or how their daily lives go. Surprising them with a responsibility, even if you informed them beforehand. Because you never know if they seriously considered it or they just gave into your persistence.

For the most part, if you as a fan are insistent on giving your idol a living being as a gift, make sure you have their consent and reassurance that they can take care of it, what with their busy schedule and other responsibilities. And you never know, they might not even be a good pet owner. So to stay on the safe side, be considerate and sensitive enough of your idols’ circumstances and situation and the possible life the pet could live. Perhaps a letter or a cute little trinket would suffice!

is it just me or its always so weird giving people pets as gifts… ESPECIALLY when you're basically a stranger ? like that's such a huge responsibility you're giving to someone that you don't personally know (and vice versa) 😐 respect the girls' boundaries !!!!!!!!! https://t.co/GypK7gSMoG

— nai (@chwrina) August 31, 2024

The BLOOM has since apologized for being so persistent about the puppy, and has come to realize how her actions may have needed more consideration on their part. So far, though, Aiah’s new puppy seems to be living a good life, being taken care of by someone who loves dogs and wanted one for a long time. But we can’t assume the same for every idol every time.

Idols and celebrities may be appreciative, and may take fantastic care of a pet gifted to them. It might even change their life for the better! But let’s not make it standard practice. No matter how much someone loves pets, be it dogs, cats, turtles, fish, we cannot assume they have the capacity to take care of a pet properly, whether it’s because of their schedule or something else. We can totally show our love to our idols in other ways.

Continue Reading: On Boundaries And Fandom: You Really Don’t Know Who Your Idols Are 

No reservation was needed when Esnyr served on NYLON Manila’s August cover. Let’s take a look at some of the fashion, style, and beauty choices that went into it.

Related reading: Spill It: Esnyr Ranollo Knows About How Gen Z Slang Can Change the World

Gen Z and its immediately identifiable slang demonstrates their capacity and love for creative expression. It is this inventiveness with language that Esnyr Ranollo embodies in his relatable AF skits, and what he brought to NYLON Manila’s latest cover and print with the Lingo Issue. Everything about it was an undeniable slay, so let’s take a dive into the fashion direction that made for such an iconic cover. 

UNDERSTANDING THE ASSIGNMENT 

With the many roles Esnyr portrays in his series and skits, he is no stranger to making fashion and styling choices that not only give you a visual understanding of the character on screen in an instant, but also evoke a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. His videos show us the power that fashion and beauty have to influence our aura and the way we can control how we are perceived by those around us. 

So for his cover with NYLON Manila, Esnyr showed exactly how a mindful (and demure?) script paired with striking visuals can help you reach an audience of millions. And what better way to give us all a master class on how to serve than with an aesthetic inspired by the place that holds formative memories for many of us? School.

TWEED JACKET AND SKIRT BY @EXPLOREEASTOFEDEN

“The shoot captures Esnyr as a confident high school class president in various scenes: delivering a speech, interacting with the school press, and enjoying a moment of tea,” said Andre Chang, Fashion and Creative Director of NYLON Manila, explaining that the styling concept draws inspiration from the essence of high school. 

As many of his characters hail from their teen years, Esnyr’s dialogues naturally make use of a lot of modern vernacular and Gen Z lingo. So Chang further explains how this made an appearance in  and became an integral part of the shoot, “The drinking tea and interview scene alludes to the gen-z expression: ‘spill the tea’. Each scene is infused with Gen Z lingo, adding a modern twist to the classic school setting with a hint of humor.”

FITS FOR DAYS

TWEED JACKET AND SKIRT BY @EXPLOREEASTOFEDEN

“The wardrobe is rooted in preppy uniform aesthetics, featuring tailored tweed suits, classic cardigan sets, pleated skirts, and sharp shirt-and-tie combinations,” Chang says about the custom outfits for Esnyr’s shoot, giving the overall vibe of the cover its own distinctive look. The earthiness of the background when juxtaposed with the color blocking that was carried throughout the three layouts really provided a fresh take on traditional academia. “To tie the looks together we had custom looks in the uniform color palette of red, navy blue, and white, evoking both old-school charm with the freshness of today’s youth culture.“

COAT, VEST, SHIRT TUNIC, AND SKIRT BY @VANDROCASIWANATELIER, BOW BROOCH WITH LONG RIBBON BY @EXPLOREEASTOFEDEN

WIG? SNATCHED. 

Hair by Dale Mallari (@dalemallari_), TWEED JACKET AND SKIRT BY @EXPLOREEASTOFEDEN

Nothing says “Big Bold Brave” like going blonde. Esnyr got into the NYLON Manila spirit for this shoot by coming to the team and saying he was ready to show a new side of himself. Andre recounts, “The choice of the blonde wig was inspired by Esnyr’s suggestion to try something different for the shoot. Jake Galvez, the beauty consultant and makeup artist for this shoot, recommended going with a blonde lace front wig, and Dale Mallari, our talented hairstylist, did an incredible job styling it, perfectly complementing Esnyr’s look.” 

When it comes to giving cover, it’s all about the details, which Chang definitely keeps in mind. From fashion and beauty direction to even what’s on the star’s nails, he considered everything, “Jake crafted a fresh, playful makeup look for Esnyr, and we had star patterned nail art on Esnyr to add a fun and youthful touch to the overall styling.” And ‘youthful’ was definitely one of the words you could use to describe the energy Esnyr brought. 

Order your copy of the Lingo Issue print pack now featuring exclusive photo prints of Esnyr and Gen Z slang-coded worksheets and stories HERE.

Creative and Fashion Direction and Styling by ANDRE CHANG

Assisted by KURT ABONAL and MARIA PAZ GAMUS

Art Direction by GELO QUIJENCIO

Photography by ALAN SEGUI

Assisted by LYNDON KYLE ASUNCION and JEO JINGCO

Videography by BIMPOMAN

Makeup by JAKE GALVEZ

Hair by DALE MALLARI

Nails by D’DREAM NAILS and LASHES LOUNGE

Production Design by ARJ MADZ OF JAGGER STUDIOS

Shoot Coordination by JASMIN DASIGAN

Editor-in-Chief MAGGIE BATACAN

Managing Editor RAFAEL BAUTISTA

Brand Associate BIANCA LAO

Special thanks to: RISE ARTISTS STUDIO and STAR MAGIC

Continue reading: Esnyr’s New YouTube Skit is Basically the Avengers: Endgame of Pinoy Pop Culture