You guys think Oxford choosing “brain rot” as Word of The Year is shade or…?

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From TikTok addiction to stan Twitter obsession, people have transformed social media into a whole different realm—and all sorts of things are happening to our brains and behaviors as a result. Oxford University Press’ Word of the Year 2024 being brain rot confers the relevance and importance of how technology and media have a massive impact on life, language, humanity, society, and culture—and is perhaps a sign we should stop scrolling and touch some grass.

Brain rot is defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging. Also: something characterized as likely to lead to such deterioration”. It’s for sure a buzzword in this current state of society.

Although it’s not just Oxford who made the call arbitrarily—after language experts shortlisted a few words for the distinction, a public voting happened. They stated, “After two weeks of public voting and widespread conversation, our experts came together to consider the public’s input, voting results, and our language data, before declaring ‘brain rot’ as the definitive Word of the Year for 2024.”

THE BRAINS…THEY’RE ROTTING

me understanding tweet is why oxford chose brain rot as word of the year https://t.co/nV8p6XSFjH

— old hot radio (@rxtnxlxrxs) December 4, 2024

Oxford’s experts observed that “brain rot” earned popularity this year as a term “used to capture concerns about the impact of consuming excessive amounts of low-quality online content, especially on social media.” The term has been used humorously before, with different words paired with it (“Marvel brain rot,” “[insert hot new celebrity here] brain rot,” “[insert ship here] brain rot”). Brain rot is linked to the way we consume “mindless” content and entertainment, like scrolling for hours on TikTok or X or Reels.

Sure, we can whip up a myriad of reasons why being chronically online is beneficial, and they can all be true, but they all could also end up just being excuses to keep scrolling, tapping, typing, and clicking, rotting our brains as a majority of our days are being spent in front of a screen. Maybe we don’t need to know every single microtrend or slang!

Studies have found that the Internet truly is affecting our cognitive processes, with disordered screen use (basically problematic, addiction-like behaviors linked to screen use) having the potential to “negatively impact cognitive abilities,” reducing our memories and attention spans. It affects our capacities to critically think, recall information, solve problems, and make decisions. Brain rot being chosen as this year’s Word of the Year encapsulates the ever-increasing harmful effects of spending far too much time in the digital world—and while we hate sounding like boomers, they might just have a point.

HOW COOKED ARE WE?

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“‘Brain rot’ speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life, and how we are using our free time,” the President of Oxford Languages, Casper Grathwohl, said. “It feels like a rightful next chapter in the cultural conversation about humanity and technology.”

The increasing reliance on artificial inteIligence (and the fact that people with control of the Internet and social media platforms including Google, X, Meta, TikTok, and more are not only not mitigating the rampant spread of its use but actually encouraging it) definitely doesn’t help. From emails to essays, research to art, people are over-relying on AI to do the work, and there’s a whole other discussion to be had about the dangers of AI as it exists today.

The more we rely on AI, the more we stunt our abilities to think and create for ourselves—the more rotted our brains become. What then becomes of humanity? Ever heard of the term AI slop? It’s heartless, low-quality content that’s also dangerous to consume, not only because of brain rot, but because it could be misinformation or disinformation.

Though it’s far too late to stop AI from being embedded in aspects of technology and worming its way into our lives, but it’s not too late to realize that we do not have to—and we cannot—rely on it all the time or perceive it as a replacement for human creation. The same goes for any aspect of the Internet and social media—it can’t just be consumption of mindless content all day, every day, no matter how tempting it may sound.

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Thankfully, the general public seems to be in agreement that we’re pretty self-aware enough to recognize the dangers of brain rot. Just increasing its popularity is awareness of the problem at hand. But what can we do now? Is there even hope?

The future may look bleak, but there are steps we can personally take to combat all this brain rot. First off—just like when it comes to your physical health, everything in moderation. Recognize that maybe you should step away from the screen every now and then. Loosen the hold technology and media have on your life yourself. Life isn’t just about what goes on on the Internet. Doomscrolling can wait another day. That edit of Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero can wait another day. Maybe going offline, touching some grass, and doing something that doesn’t require a screen will do us some good.

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A good bag will always be a good bag, as these Y2K pieces prove.

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I’m sure you recognize that cute, smiling rainbow sunflower that has surged back into popularity after NewJeans used it as their album cover for Supernatural and its B-side Right Now, released in June 2024. This cheerful, iconic bloom has once again danced its way into the spotlight, but this isn’t the first Takashi Murakami delightful creation that has made waves– you might’ve also seen it adorned in the forearm of the iconic blonde mean girl, Regina George. 

And best believe, that bag has proven to be the it-girl stamper that it really was because Louis Vuitton and Murakami’s iconic collaboration for this early 2000’s staple piece has been confirmed to be making a comeback after almost 21 years. With the upcoming vintage piece in brown and pink available on the first day of 2025, it’s the perfect time to reminisce about some of the most iconic Y2K bags that deserve a grand return. 

After all, fashion is cyclical, and trends and designs eventually find their way back to the fashion consciousness. With famous fashion collaborations making a grand return, it’s clear these aren’t just bags; they’re stories—of design, of eras gone by, and of the people who wore them with aplomb.

Style isn’t about following trends; it’s about celebrating pieces that make us feel something profound. These beloved pieces listed below, as proven by the thrift girlies who hunt for vintage finds in the countless flea markets, are more than ready and anticipated for their encore. 

COACH’S CARLY LARGE TOTE

The mid-2000s were when practicality met elegance, and the Coach Carly Large Tote embodied that beautiful collision. Crafted from Coach’s signature jacquard fabric adorned with their iconic “C” pattern, the tote featured rich leather trim, polished brass hardware, and a spacious interior that could effortlessly accommodate everything from your diary to that novel you’ve been meaning to finish.

Designed under the creative direction of Reed Krakoff, who revitalized the brand with a modern yet timeless aesthetic, the Carly was every woman’s versatile companion coming in with a version with big, metallic-like satin circles and also a creative patchwork design. With that the Carly series has seamlessly transitioned from boardroom meetings to fabulous brunches with friends. 

Today, a Coach Carly Tote can be found ranging from ₱8,000 to ₱17,000—a modest investment for a bag that carried not only our belongings but also probably, our mom’s memories.

BURBERRY’S LONDON RARE NOVA COTTON CANDY TOTE

Who says British tradition can’t tease with a bit of whimsy? The Burberry London Pink Nova Check Tote took the brand’s timeless plaid and dipped it in shades of blush and cotton candy. Priced between ₱22,000 and ₱45,000, this tote was a youthful refresh of Burberry’s storied legacy under Christopher Bailey’s innovative eye. 

Coming in with other pastel colors like periwinkle blue, this handbag is crafted from premium canvas and accented with leather trims, making it practical for its durability and yet still delightfully sophisticated.  The Pink Nova Check added a playful pop to any ensemble, making it the perfect accessory for those unafraid to mix classic elegance with good ‘ol girliepop energy.

CHRISTIAN DIOR’S MONOGRAM TROTTER CHERRIES IVORY PINK AND ROMANTIQUE TROTTER SERIES

When Dior decided to sprinkle a dash of playfulness into its elegance, we got the enchanting Monogram Trotter Cherries Ivory Pink Satchel. Imagine the classic Dior monogram canvas kissed by adorable cherry motifs—a truly sweet blend of sophistication and flirtatious charm, as proven by Paris Hilton. 

Crafted during John Galliano’s audacious era, this satchel was more than just a bag; it was a bold statement. The delicate ivory pink backdrop made those cherries pop, capturing hearts and turning heads wherever it went. 

Today, this collector’s piece ranges from ₱56,000 to ₱140,000 and with this pricing comes also their Romantique Handbag series, which featured their memorable heart trinket. 

CELINE’S BOOGIE BAG

Priced between ₱22,000 and ₱50,000, the Céline Boogie Bag is a delightful nod to structured design with a dash of sass. Launched in the early 2000s under Michael Kors’ creative vision, this bag embodied understated luxury before minimalism became Céline’s hallmark. 

Crafted from high-quality leather in bold colors and intriguing textures, it featured sturdy top handles and practical exterior pockets.

For the divas who values substance as much as style, the Boogie Bag was a dream—effortlessly accommodating daily essentials while exuding casual chic. It whispered sophistication without demanding attention, making it a timeless piece that still feels remarkably fresh today.

JUICY COUTURE’S DAYDREAMER AND FLUFFY BLING RING

Juicy Couture rings our nostalgia bell when we remember the velour tracksuits they are oh-so well-known for. The brand was a formidable player in popularizing casual loungewear into a fashionable statement, which dubbed the 2000’s have-a-tracksuit culture. But their influence extends beyond the fluffy cool velvet and onto handbags.

Put that velour shine onto bags, and you get the Daydreamer bag and the Fluffy Bling Ring bag that came in various popping colors that are sure to elevate any outfit. Ranging with a price between 25,000 to 40,000 today, it’s true that this line is a definite ode to the Y2K era, embodying the glamorous chill girl aesthetic to a t!

So if you see someone sporting any J&C items in general, then you know they’re a true Y2K advocate because despite their surge of influence, they’re now quite the chest piece to find. 

CHLOE PADDINGTON MEDIUM SATCHEL

No trip down memory lane is complete without the Chloé Paddington Medium Satchel. Introduced in 2005 by the brilliant accessories team led by Phoebe Philo, this bag wasn’t just a must-have; it was an obsession. Crafted from sumptuous, distressed leather and adorned with an oversized padlock and key, the Paddington embodied that boho-luxe vibe we couldn’t get enough of.

Available in earthy tones like rich tan and deep chocolate, its slouchy silhouette and hefty hardware struck the perfect balance between edgy and elegant. The Paddington wasn’t just a bag; it was a cultural moment, a must-have that had fashion aficionados waiting months to acquire. Reconnecting with this icon might set you back ₱28,000 to ₱84,000, but can you really put a price on rekindling a love affair with one of fashion’s most unforgettable muses?

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Something tells us we’ll be seeing a lot more of Jarren Garcia in the future.

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PBB may be a reality competition show, but it’s also highkey a star-making factory with the way many of its alumni have gone to become noted names and personalities in showbiz and entertainment. This past season, Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11, looks to continue that trend, and one name that has landed on many a radar is Jarren Garcia. While “Ang Charming Crooner ng London” didn’t make it to the end, he did leave an impression on viewers thanks to his talent, personality, charm, determination, and attitude. 

It’s honestly funny where Jarren is right now considering that it was his parents who convinced him to audition for the show after coming across the audition announcement online. But life has a funny way of working sometimes. The fact that his social media following has grown in the millions since his time on PBB shows that Jarren is a name to watch out for in the future. Another Gen Z heartthrob on the rise we fear. See why the London-born Gen Z Filipino has our attention (and maybe should have yours, too) below. 

HE’S NO STRANGER TO TV

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Most people got to know Jarren during his stint on Pinoy Big Brother. But that wasn’t the first reality competition show he joined. Before there was PBB, there was The Voice UK, which he auditioned for in 2020. He was the last blind audition of the season and he earned a spot in Coach Danny Jones’s team with his cover of Just The Way You Are. One of a handful of Filipino-blooded contestants on the season, Jarren made it to the battle rounds, where he was sadly eliminated in the first episode. Still, the experience didn’t stop him as it was just a stepping stone for greater things to come.

HE’S CONNECTED WITH HIS FILIPINO ROOTS

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While Jarren was born and raised in London, that doesn’t mean he has no connection with his Filipino heritage. Jarren has made it no secret that he resonates with his Filipino roots, with his mom hailing from Bicol and his dad coming from Laguna. “It’s always Bicol first because my mom is Bicolana and it’s always her. She’s priority. So we stay in Bicol for most of the time and then we go back to Manila and then we go to Calamba Laguna where my dad is from,” he shared in an interview.

Jarren may have been raised half a world away from the country, but he was never far from Filipino culture. We appreciate how he doesn’t shy away from his roots and puts in the effort to embrace where he comes from, which is not always easy for Gen Z Filipinos raised far from the country. 

HE’S ALREADY GETTING NOTABLE PROJECTS

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It’s still early days for Jarren’s career, but already, he’s been getting the gigs. Aside from performing on ASAP, Jarren also recently became one of the newest MYX VJs after initially making it to the Top 12 MYX VJ Finalists. Considering that many big names in the industry were once or started as MYX VJs, it’s an opportunity that can open doors for Jarren in the future. 

It’s a great avenue for him to flex his knowledge, given his love of music, and grow as a host and artist. As he shared in an interview, “As a MYX VJ, I really want to explore other forms of music. I really love international music and Filipino music. I kind of wanna combine the two to show the Filipino community what the international music would like and to show the world what Filipino music looks like.”

HE KNOWS HOW TO GET THE AUDIENCE TALKING

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The hype Jarren has been getting from fans is honestly on another level. But there are reasons for that. From his looks, style, personality, and more, Jarren is a multifaceted star on the rise that gets the audience’s attention whenever he’s on stage. And like any rising star, Jarren also has the ship bag secured with how he went viral on social media thanks to fan ships of him and a couple of his PBB Gen 11 housemates. At this point, he’s checking off the boxes on the it-boy list one by one. 

HIS ARTISTIC SIDE IS NO JOKE

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We love a man who isn’t afraid to be in tune with his creative and artistic side. Music has always been a first love for Jarren, with his passion for his craft coming through in his talent and dedication. As early as four years old, he was performing at a Filipino choir in London. During his time on PBB, Jarren also showcased his musical side through different challenges and activities. 

If that wasn’t enough, Jarren, who counts Daniel Caesar, Billie Eilish, and SunKissed Lola among his musical faves, has also been open about his love for fashion and design, something we hope he explores more in the coming years. With all these creative outlets and passions, Jarren has his fair share of horizons he can explore to showcase the artist that he is, and we’re here for it.  

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The annual Christmas event returns as MMFF 2024 promises ten new Filipino movies deserving of your time and money.

Related: End The Year Right With These New Movies And Shows Of December 2024

The Metro Manila Film Festival has always been an institution, both for Philippine cinema and Christmas. Every December 25, Filipino movies take over local movies theaters for two or so weeks as Filipino cinema gets the spotlight over the holidays. And for its 50th edition this 2024, MMFF returns once more with ten new local movies on offer. 

Running from December 25, 2024, to January 7, 2025 (with the Gabi ng Parangal happening on December 27), MMFF 2024 promises entries that showcase a variety of genres and stories that appeal to different tastes. And honestly, seeing Filipino movies level up in quality and storytelling is always a win in our book. So, if you’re eyeing to catch one or a few of the films or are just curious to know what’s in store this year, here are the ten movies competing at MMFF 2024. 

AND THE BREADWINNER IS…

Vice Ganda in this color grading? Consider us seated. From Jun Robles Lana comes Vice Ganda’s movie comeback with a project unlike any she’s done before. The movie centers on Bambi Salvador, a breadwinner working as an OFW based in Taiwan. She returns to her hometown of Arayat, Pampanga, expecting her dream house to be finished on her birthday. Instead, she returns to see their dilapidated house and a misuse of the money she’s been sending home, leading to friction with her family. 

Things get even more complicated when Bambi pretends to be dead in order for her family to receive her insurance worth millions. The movie, which also stars Eugene Domingo, Joel Torre, Gladys Reyes, Jhong Hilario, and Kokoy de Santos, among others, puts the spotlight on the hard work, determination, and selflessness of OFWs, as well as the trials and tribulations many breadwinners go through to provide for their families.  

GREEN BONES

Zig Dulay, who directed the MMFF 2023’s Best Picture winner, Firefly, returns to the festival with a new movie that has a decidedly more mature tone. The film follows the story of prisoner Domingo Zamora, played by Dennis Trillo, who is up for parole after being locked up for murder. However, his journey to freedom runs into a roadblock when newly assigned corrections officer Gonzaga, portrayed by Ruru Madrid, works to ensure that Zamora remains behind bars. The twist? It was Zamora who killed Gonzaga’s sister and niece, making things personal in this crime drama.   

ISANG HIMALA

Adapting one of Philippine cinema’s most iconic movies is no easy feat. But with the talent behind this MMFF entry, we have our hopes. Isang Himala is a movie musical adaptation (yes, we’re getting a musical in MMFF 2024) of the 2018 theatrical play of the same name, which in itself was based on the 1982 classic Himala (and, fun fact, was also an entry to that year’s MMFF). This take brings viewers back to Baryo Cupang and follows the story of Elsa as she claims to have seen the apparition of the Virgin Mary during a solar eclipse. What follows is a series of events that test the faith and morals of the young girl and the town at large. 

What’s interesting about the movie is that quite a few of the play’s actors will be reprising their roles for the movie adaptation, such as Aicelle Santos reprising her role as Elsa. Adding to the movie’s caliber is director Pepe Diokno helming the project with a script he co-wrote with Ricky Lee, who penned Himala. 

THE KINGDOM

Filipino movies with interesting premises will always have our attention, such as this MMFF entry. In The Kingdom, the film poses the intriguing idea of a Philippines in an alternate timeline in which the country was never conquered by any colonizer. Directed by Michael Tuviera, the epic historical drama is set in the Kingdom of Kalayaan and centers on Lakan Makisig (Vic Sotto) as he’s thrust into a succession crisis that quickly spirals out of control. A unique setting, quality production design, Vic Sotto in a non-comedic role? Okay, we see you. 

STRANGE FREQUENCIES: TAIWAN KILLER HOSPITAL

No MMFF is truly complete without a horror entry, and this movie is one of the two films this year offering just that to viewers. Billed as the Philippines’s first meta found footage horror film, the movie stars Enrique Gil, Jane de Leon, Alexa Miro, MJ Lastimosa, Raf Pineda, and Ryan “Zarckaroo” Azurin as a group of Filipino amateur ghost hunters who explore the notorious Xinglin General Hospital in Tainan. You can probably guess where this is going. 

Fun fact; the movie is actually a Filipino adaptation of the 2018 Korean cult hit Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum. Adding to the film’s horror credentials is that it’s directed by Erik Matti, the same director who gave us 2016’s Seklusyon. 

ESPANTAHO

The slayage from the cast alone, whew. This supernatural horror film from Chito S. Roño brings together Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino for a story about a mother and daughter who become entangled in complicated and morally challenging situations involving married men.

HOLD ME CLOSE

Carlo Aquino, Julia Barretto, and director Jason Paul Laxamana team up once more in this MMFF entry with a fantasy twist. In the movie, we follow Woody, a man who has spent seven years traveling the world to find a place to settle. His adventures bring him to Japan, where he meets Lynlyn. She has the special ability to tell if a certain person will cause happiness or harm to her by touching them. What starts as a platonic relationship turns deeper as the two discover if they really are meant for each other. 

MY FUTURE YOU

Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin star in their very first movie together as a love team, and it involves dating apps and time travel. From director Crisanto B. Aquino comes the story of Karen and Lex, two young adults who seemingly hit it off when they connect on an online dating app. But when they decide to meet in person, they realize they’re on two different timelines, with Karen in 2024 and Lex in 2009. It turns out that their connection was possible thanks to a passing comet. Now, the two must work together to change the past for their love to meet in the present. 

TOPAKK

This action drama by Richard Somes is actually no stranger to the festival circuit, with the movie previously being screened at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in May 2023 and premiered at the 76th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland in August 2023. Now, the film is making its Philippine theatrical debut at MMFF 2024. Arjo Atayde and Julia Montes star in this thriller about a former special forces operative (Atayde) with PTSD who tries to rescue a woman (Montes) who is being hunted by a corrupt police death squad affiliated with a drug cartel.

UNINVITED

Talk about a true mother and father off. From director Dan Villegas comes this drama starring acting heavyweights Vilma Santos, Nadine Lustre, and Aga Mulach in a joint slay for the ages. It follows the story of Eva Candelaria, a mother who seeks revenge on a billionaire named Guilly for killing her daughter. Disguised, she attends his party with a vengeful plan that we can’t wait to see unfold. The intrigue is intriguing. Produced by Project 8 and Mentorque Productions (the people behind MMFF 2023’s 3rd Best Picture Mallari), this will be their second collaboration after Cinemalaya entry Kono Basho. 

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This year, we saw plenty of Ws for all kinds of pop culture icons, from P-pop groups to athletes and more. But we’d love to know—who do you think won 2024?

Related: NYLON Manila Picks: The Artists That Made Our 2024 So Much Better

What a year! From BINI’s milestones to DonBelle’s increasing stardom, KathDen’s reunion to Maki’s rise to fame, Carlos Yulo’s two Olympic medals to Fyang’s big Pinoy Big Brother win, it’s been a pretty amazing year for pop culture. Plenty of Ws to go around. That being said, we want to hear from you all about who you think came out on top this 2024 and stole the show!

Whether it be due to the popularity they gained over the year, the accomplishments they’ve earned, the places they’ve traveled to, or even things like the personal fulfillment you’ve heard them say they’ve achieved, let us know who you think made 2024 their year. Whether they’re actors, singers, artists, athletes, pop culture icons, creators—whoever they may be, show them some love.

A reminder that this poll does not guarantee anything (such as content with the winner/s), as it’s just a fun poll to express your appreciation for the people and icons that have kept you entertained, made you happy, made you kilig, or made you proud this 2024. Also a reminder to keep the voting fair and clean, and to be patient as the host website deals with the volume and speed of people voting. Have fun with it and thank you so much!

You can refresh to vote multiple times, and you can also submit write-in votes in the “Other” option, but the poll closes on December 20, 11:59 PM.

REFRESH TO VOTE AGAIN

REFRESH TO VOTE AGAIN

Continue Reading: End The Year Right With These New Movies And Shows Of December 2024

Here are some red and green flags to watch out for when it comes to getting that good thesis groupmate.

Related: Bum Begone: 5 Tips On How To Deal With A Freeloader Groupmate

Picture this: you’re probably in your 3rd and 4th year in college and that most-awaited time is fast approaching; the dawn of thesis. Now unlike the other groupworks you’ve had, the stakes are definitely higher for this do-or-die requirement making the nightly cafe runs seem bottomless. In college, there are always piles of revisions and judgy but respectable professors. However, something that also needs to be discussed is the power of a good thesismate, as well as bad ones who can make an already tough task even harder. 

Being a reliable thesismate can set the tone for the entire experience and make you grow (and maybe even find someone special along the way). So, how do we ensure that we aren’t just a ghostly figure haunting the cobweb-riddled group chat, but a real, present force in the thesis? Here are some do’s and don’ts that we guarantee can tag you as the academic weapon you truly are, or even as a guide to find the right thesis partners. 

DO: COMMUNICATE OPENLY AND OFTEN

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Like every good group work, a team should be able to communicate openly. Schedule meetings, make the minutes, continuously talk about the distribution of work, and finalize the deadlines everyone is comfortable with. 

Communication will always be the foundation of a good thesis group and shouldn’t be slept on. Despite the designation of different tasks, every member should still be familiar with everyone’s contributions. If not, the chances that dead air will happen when the panel asks questions increases. We definitely don’t want that to happen!

DON’T: GHOST YOUR GROUPMATES

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While a time away from the rigid classrooms and notifications of academic group chats seems like paradise, disappearing without a word for whatever the reason may be is unprofessional and unacceptable. If it does happen or you find yourself urging to escape, then there won’t be a smooth-flowing experience because you’re late to the edits, you didn’t give your input, and so on.

That’s why it is essential to keep an open line of communication, no matter how swamped you are with other deliverables. A single message, revision, or question goes a long way for the progress of your thesis and how your other members can continue working and adapting to the situation.

DO: PUT EFFORT IN THE THESIS STATEMENT

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Oh, the thesis statement. We hear it over and over again, and the more that we stress about it, sometimes the further we are from truly grasping what it even meant in the first place. At its most basic definition, your thesis statement is the crux of your research. It’s the wheel of the car, you cannot proceed without tying the thesis statement as perfectly as you can. Professors were definitely not lying when they emphasized the thesis statement because then, you wouldn’t have wasted time writing the RRL and navigating the methods.

DON’T: DISMISS IDEAS OUTRIGHT

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Be open to your team’s suggestions. While differences can erupt during brainstorming sessions, don’t let the disagreement blind your emotions from the responsibility itself. Shutting down ideas is like refusing to try sushi because you think you won’t like it—you might be missing out on something great. Explore all avenues before making judgments to make sure everyone’s suggestions are appreciated and considered.

DO: DETERMINE EVERYONE’S STRENGTHS

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The first to the middle half of the thesis experience can be collaged in a series of all-nighter calls and continuous tweaking of word choices, and usually along the way, you discover the personalities of your thesis mates and sometimes, even you’d be surprised with what you can find out about yourself. It’s best and totally a hack to have a heart-to-heart where everyone shares their impressions of each other and sees what kind of work they have to offer. But of course, the goal of constructive feedback is to uplift and improve, not to just be mean for no reason. 

DON’T: BE A YES MAN

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Slacking off and simply leaving your team to make all the decisions is one of the ways to burn bridges within the group. While it is easier and sometimes less stressful for some to just go with the flow and let the waves take you wherever, it’d be such a faux pas to be that kind of thesis mate, because, as a member, you should be able to pull your weight and respect each others’ time and personal space. 

DO: CELEBRATE MILESTONES

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Completed a chapter? Got complimented during a colloquium? Matched a good office siren outfit with the team? Celebrate it! Whether it’s another cup of that delicious drink or a quick lunch with your group mates, it’s essential to celebrate the small wins towards a big success. It’s easy for each school day to be swept under the rug, and rarely do we get a star for just showing up in class. So loosen up and give yourself the space to enjoy the cake as it lets you remember that ‘hey you are THAT academic it-girl or it-boy!’

DON’T: MAKE IT ALL ABOUT YOU

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It’s ok to be proud, but remember, there’s no “I” in “team” (yes, we’re pulling that card). Centering the project around yourself diminishes the other members’ contributions and can further derail not just the essence of the paper, but your relationship with your group. Keep your chin up and flash the brightest smile, we all got this!

Continue Reading: 5 Things To Watch Out For Before Joining A School Organization 

Star-crossed lovers trope in movies will always hit, as these couples from timeless classics prove.

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The what-ifs of life weigh heavy, but doomed romance tropes in TV and film can definitely make us sob and aww over the beauty of a tragic love story. They’re like that secret tub of ice cream in the back of your freezer—devoted and unconditionally there for you in moments of heartbreak. 

Star-crossed lovers? Now that’s a trope that brings a mix of hopeless yearning, chaste far-off gazes, and the bittersweet heartache of being banished from the one you adore. Any love story can be delightful, but these seven movies are true time capsules of what it really means to love without expectations. 

ROMAN HOLIDAY (1953)

Roman Holiday—think of it as your first solo trip to Europe, but with more Rome and less Wi-Fi. The legendary Audrey Hepburn plays the lead role of Princess Ann, a young royal. Bored beyond belief of her princess duties, she decides to embark on a secret adventure as she sneaks out to roam the streets of Rome incognito. Now enters Joe Bradley, an American journalist played by Gregory Peck, whose nose for news is high after being tasked to supposedly interview the princess the next day.

Little did he know, the girl he saw late at night sprawled sleepily in a nearby fountain on his way home from poker with his buddies was actually the princess, and saw the opportunity to catch an exclusive story. But as they buzz through the city on a Vespa with ice cream melting on their wrists and brace for night of dancing, Joe falls for Princess Ann, leading to a tender yet fleeting romance. Together, they give us a love story that makes you want to book the next flight to Italy for summertime and, maybe, just maybe, fall in love for a day.

THE SEA PRINCE AND THE FIRE CHILD (1981)

Produced by Sanrio, the studio behind our beloved Hello Kitty, the enchanting film tells the tale of Prince Syrius of the sea and Princess Malta of the fire, two lovers from opposing elemental realms. Inspired by the classic Romeo and Juliet but with a fantastical twist, their love is as forbidden as it is fervent, because just by their identities and upbringing alone– of being fire and water– their love was destined for tragedy.

Despite this, Syrius and Malta found each other, defying their elemental differences and thus, bridges their worlds. The animation, rich with vibrant hues and delicate details, paints a vivid picture of their struggle and the beauty of their love. All in all, it’s a story about the haunting reality that some love stories, no matter how deep, are simply not meant to last.

THE PRINCESS BRIDE (1987)

The Princess Bride is the ultimate Disney-esque fairy tale with a live action story, bringing together romance, adventure, and a hefty dose of wit and comedy. When Westley (Cary Elwes), a humble farm boy, is thought to be lost at sea, Buttercup (Robin Wright), the girl he promised to marry, gets her heart shattered. But as fate would have it, he returns as the dashing Dread Pirate Roberts, and their love story resumes amidst a whirlwind of adventure and failed royal marriages.

Truly, the film has it all: daring sword fights, clever wordplay, and a cast of quirky characters that bring the fairy tale world to life. Directed by Rob Reiner, it’s a reminder that love is an adventure worth embarking on, filled with unexpected twists and turns that make the journey worthwhile. Whether you’re in it for the romance or the humor, The Princess Bride has a little something for everyone, wrapped in a blanket of nostalgia and charm.

EDWARD SCISSORHANDS (1990)

Edward Scissorhands is Tim Burton’s gothic and white Christmas emotional love story. Edward (Johnny Depp) is a humanoid with scissors for hands living in a brooding gothic mansion when he’s suddenly discovered by a mother, Peg Boggs, who was selling Avon products door to door. He’s eventually taken in by her family living in the pastel suburbia just below the mountain from which the dark mansion stands. He falls for Kim Boggs (Winona Ryder) and off they are with romance as fragile and beautiful as a snowflake.

Aside from the obvious otherness of Edward that stands as a barrier between them, Kim also has a jock and controlling boyfriend, making their love unattainable. It’s a hauntingly beautiful story about acceptance and identity, leaving us with the question of what it truly means to belong. Edward’s Scissorhands is a delicate dance of innocence and longing that lingers long after the credits roll.

TITANIC (1997)

We’re diving deep with Titanic, where grand romance meets epic disaster. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jack, a manic pixie dream boy with a talent for the arts and Kate Winslet’s Rose, a young and beautiful socialite entrapped with the pressures of classism, find love aboard the ill-fated ship, defying the class divide with all the fervor of a summer fling that you know has an expiration date.

Their relationship is raw, transformative, and tragically brief, framed by James Cameron’s breathtaking visuals of the sinking ship. Titanic isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural monument, a visual symphony of love and loss that hits you like a wave every single time. We can’t help but fall for Jack and Rose’s doomed love story, because deep down, we all know there’s a bit of room on that door.

IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE (2002)

Wong Kar-wai’s In the Mood for Love is the cinematic equivalent of a whispered secret. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, it’s a lush, evocative exploration of unspoken desires and restrained passion. Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung) and Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung) are neighbors who discover that their spouses are having an affair. In their shared solitude, they form a bond that’s as delicate as a spider’s web, taut with the weight of what could be.

Their love is subtle, expressed through stolen glances, fleeting touches, and shared noodles, making it all the more poignant. The film’s beautiful cinematography and score wrap you in a red dreamscape of yearning and nostalgia, leaving you pondering over what could’ve been.

A WALK TO REMEMBER (2002)

Grab your tissues, because A Walk to Remember is just like the love letter you sent to someone you just had to let go. Based on the Nicholas Sparks novel of the same name, it’s the story of Landon Carter, a bad-boy high schooler (Shane West), who falls head over heels for Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore), the sweet, religious girl next door.

Their love unfolds simply and tenderly, only to be shadowed by Jamie’s life-threatening illness. The movie’s power comes from its sincerity and emotional depth, portraying a love that’s both transformative and profoundly heart-wrenching. Moore and West bring a vulnerability to their roles, making the characters’ growth and connection believable and so moving, it has become a staple romance for all ages.

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An animal shelter needs a new home for their rescues! Pawssion Project is sending out an SOS, and maybe you can help.

Related: Happy Animals Club Animal Shelter Has Been Ordered To Close—What Can Be Done?

Finding homes for rescued and rehabilitated animals is a noble yet difficult task, but plenty of individuals and organizations take it upon themselves to advocate for the voiceless and provide animals the care they also deserve.

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Non-profit animal welfare organization Pawssion Project is primarily run by volunteers and powered by sponsor and donations. Since 2018, they’ve helped over 2000 animals—everything from spaying and neutering to sheltering and rehoming.

However, finding homes for the dogs and cats they rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome is made more difficult by the fact that the nonprofit is losing the space they are using in Bulacan as a place to shelter these animals. With over 300 rescues in need of a new temporary home, find out how you can help below.

LOSING THEIR HOME

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The non-profit often holds events, partners with brands, collaborates with people with platforms, all to raise funding and support for all the animals they house and care for. This has led to plenty of animal lives saved and plenty of adoptions, but it’s not enough. There are more issues and problems nationwide than animal welfare organizations can handle.

Furthermore, in June, Pawssion Project announced that the rented Bulacan land where they were sheltering and taking care of rescues has been bought out to permanent residents, and they would have to relocate. They were able to ask for an extension, but now, time is running out. They’ve put their rescue operations on hold as all hands are on deck to find a new shelter to house over 450 rescued animals. The priority is to find a new permanent space, but since they now only have until end of December this year, they need to clear out and find at least a temporary space for their rescues.

Primarily, they need spaces to house dogs, a separate home for cats, foster homes to shelter some of the rescues, a large enough land to be able to operate, and funding for transport and logistics. Their call for donations and leads have blown up online, and there are a few ways you can help.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

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From Shaira Luna to Justin de Dios, plenty have heeded the call to help Pawssion Project achieve their mission of giving abused, abandoned, and neglected animals another chance at a happy life. You can join them by checking out Pawssion Project’s social media pages to get real-time updates and support directly, and you can also do the following:

• Donate (for funding for crates, transport, rent, construction, logistics, gas, electricity, water, animal care, etc.)
• Help them with relocation and resource leads (housing spaces, land, crates, transport vehicles)
• Amplify their call to garner more support and leads (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.)

While they are currently tackling this emergency, you can support Pawssion Project whenever, wherever you are. You may book a visit to their Bacolod shelter and show some love for the rescues. You can also sponsor a rescued dog or cat and provide the funding for their care and rehabilitation if you can’t take care of them yourself. You can also buy Pawssion Project merchandise. If you own a business or an organization, you can partner with the non-profit for fundraising or adoption events.

More than that, you can volunteer as well to give them some extra hands to help with the work. And—if you’re down, you may adopt and provide some of their rescues a kind, loving home they can call their forever home, giving them a second chance. These animals deserve to live well-lived lives, too.

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With the Dream Chaser Palette by barenbliss, your dream looks are just a swipe away—so why not chase them?

Related: These 4 New barenbliss Products Can Help You Achieve The K-Beauty Look of Your Dreams

The right eyeshadow has the power to transform your entire look—from “I woke up like this” to “I’ve got it all figured out” in a few strokes. Whether you’re a beginner into soft shadows or trying out the trending aegyo sal, the promise of effortless, long-lasting glam is always a game-changer.

The Dream Chaser collection by barenbliss brings that glow-up straight to your makeup stash with sheens, shimmers, and neutrals. Recently expanded with new shades 05 Pink Romance and 06 Moonlight Fantasy, this collection is like your personal fairy godmother for eyeshadow—making it easy to write your own story with every swipe of color.

Here’s everything you need to know about these must-have palettes.

Dream Big with the Dream Chaser Palette

With buttery mattes, shimmering metallics, and pressed glitters, each shade boasts micro-smooth powders that glide seamlessly onto your lids, delivering impeccable color payoff every time. From a soft-focus daytime glow to bold, layered drama for nights that demand attention, this palette is your answer to endless possibilities.

Now featuring the stunning Pink Romance and Moonlight Fantasy shades, the collection expands beyond its beloved OG favorites—Coral Cloud, Dreamer Dust, Honey Lake, and Sugary Rose. With hues ranging from subtle pinks to moonlit tones, these palettes are more than pretty—they’re powerful. Waterproof, sweatproof, and long-lasting for up to eight hours, they keep your look flawless with a single swipe.

It’s not just about the colors (although, let’s be real—they’re stunning). The Dream Chaser Palette is infused with a skin-loving formula that sets it apart from your average product. Packed with macadamia seed oil, shea butter, and vitamin E, it hydrates, nourishes, and protects your delicate eyelid skin. Plus, the Color-Lock Technology ensures smooth application and effortless layering.

Compact, portable, and complete with a built-in mirror, this palette is ready to go wherever you do. And if you’re worried about fallout ruining your glam—or your contact lenses—fear not. It’s as clean and considerate as its formula promises, proving beauty can be kind.

The Dreamy Collaboration with Elinails

Taking the aesthetic further, barenbliss teamed up with Elinails, the creative alias of Manila-raised Korean nail artist Elina Jung. Known for her Y2K-inspired designs and whimsical nail art, Elina brings a dose of charm to the campaign with nail designs inspired by the Dream Chaser collection. Think dreamy palettes, floral treatments, and 3D designs that perfectly complement the palettes’ ethereal feel.

Bare Your Bliss

The Dream Chaser Collection proves that clean beauty can feel as effortless as your favorite daydream. Because let’s be real—your eyes are the perfect canvas for self-expression, and this collection makes it easier than ever to create looks that match your mood, your vibe, and your vision.

So, what are you waiting for? Start creating your dreamiest looks. Explore the collection now and discover your next beauty moment at barenbliss.com.

Continue reading: How To Recreate This Fresh, Sweet barenbliss Makeup Look As Seen On Toni Sia

Are you (and your wallets) ready for these upcoming concerts and fanmeets this 2025?

Related: All The Concerts, Live Shows, Fanmeets and More Coming To The Philippines This 2024

ST. VINCENT (January 8)

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We never thought we’d see the day, but St. Vincent is actually coming to the Philippines, and it’s going to be for a show at The Filinvest Tent on January 8. What a way to start the year.

CIGARETTES AFTER SEX (January 14)

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As one of the first big concerts of 2025, Cigarettes After Sex will be playing to their Filipino fans at the MOA Arena on January 14.

BIANCA DEL RIO (January 17)

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The queen of mean herself, Bianca Del Rio, returns to the Philippines for a show at the New Frontier Theater on January 17.

SEVENTEEN (January 18 and 19)

[NOTICE] SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR IN ASIA 개최 안내 (+ENG/JPN/CHN)

▶️ https://t.co/j7MspZUkdh#SEVENTEEN #세븐틴#SVT_RIGHT_HERE_WORLDTOUR#SVT_RIGHT_HERE_IN_ASIA pic.twitter.com/CfgSbmQDxh

— 세븐틴(SEVENTEEN) (@pledis_17) September 25, 2024

Cue the war flashbacks. SEVENTEEN is taking their RIGHT HERE tour to Asia next year, and it includes two days at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan on January 18 and 19.

HWANG IN YOUP (January 25)

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Filipino Hwang In Youp stans get to start 2025 right with a fan meeting featuring the famous actor at the New Frontier Theater on January 25.

MAROON 5 (January 29)

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Maroon 5 makes their return to the Philippines at the start of 2025 with a show at the MOA Arena on January 29.

AURORA (January 31)

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Aurora makes her Manila debut in 2025 with a show at the New Frontier Theater on January 31.

TJ MONTERDE (February 1, 2, and 3)

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Just in time for the month of love, OPM crooner TJ Monterde will be holding a concert at the Araneta Coliseum on February 1, 2, and 3.

THE SCRIPT (February 11 and 12)

Breaking News 🚨📢
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐏𝐓 is coming to MANILA with their 'Satellites World Tour' on February 11, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum. Tickets go on-sale August 10 Saturday 10AM via https://t.co/QGwxIw3WQE and TicketNet outlets nationwide.

𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧… pic.twitter.com/9dmpPSClmw

— Wilbros Live (@WilbrosLive) August 1, 2024

Famous for songs like The Man Who Can’t Be Moved and Hall of Fame, rock band The Script is dropping by Manila in 2025 for the Asia/Australia leg of their Satellites World Tour! Catch the band perform at the Araneta Coliseum on February 11 and 12.

NIKI (February 11 and 12, and March 1)

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NIKI let us know that she’s coming to Manila next February for a two-night show at MOA Arena this early so that we can save up for those tickets. And due to popular demand, NIKI will be returning to the country just a month later for a third night, this time at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on March 1.

THE CORRS (February 15 and 16)

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After their successful sold-out concerts last year, THE CORRS listened and promised to return to Manila sooner rather than later. And what better way than with a two-day Valentine’s Day treat at the Araneta Coliseum on February 15 and 16?

DAY6 (February 22)

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My Days, your days are about to get better as you await DAY6’s next show here in Manila! Catch Sungjin, Young K, Wonpil, and Dowoon live at their FOREVER YOUNG World Tour on February 22 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum!

WATERBOMB FESTIVAL MANILA (February 22 and 23)

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Just in time for the start of the summer season, Waterbomb Manila will be making its debut on February 22-23, 2025 at The Quirino Grandstand in Luneta.

WAVE TO EARTH (February 28)

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K-band Wave to Earth returns to the Philippines in 2025 for biggest concert in the country yet with a show at MOA Arena on February 28.

ENHYPEN (March 1)

[공지] ENHYPEN WORLD TOUR ‘WALK THE LINE’ IN ASIA 개최 안내 (+ENG/JPN/CHN)
(https://t.co/A3a4nbyIrT)#엔하이픈 #ENHYPEN #EN_WORLDTOUR_WALKTHELINE #EN_WALKTHELINE #WALKTHELINE_IN_ASIA pic.twitter.com/u6gZ6KQWU9

— BELIFT LAB (@BELIFTLAB) November 18, 2024

Another year, another ENHYPEN concert. Just a few months after their funmeet at Araneta Coliseum, ENHYPEN finds their way back to the PH. The boys just get bigger and bigger as their latest concert in the country sees them take over the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan on March 1.

KESHI (March 4)

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keshi is bringing his Requiem World Tour to Asia in 2025, and it includes a stop at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on March 4, 2025, Tuesday with special guest boylife.

KYLIE MINOGUE (March 17)

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Mother is back! After more than a decade, Kylie Minogue makes her return to the Philippines as the Australian pop icon will hold a concert on March 17.

BOYNEXTDOOR (March 22)

BOYNEXTDOOR TOUR ‘KNOCK ON Vol.1’ 🔊 Announcement

🔗 https://t.co/BMTCqqsEbV#BOYNEXTDOOR #보이넥스트도어 #BND#KNOCK_ON_Vol_1 pic.twitter.com/OP1oSBREKS

— BOYNEXTDOOR (@BOYNEXTDOOR_KOZ) September 23, 2024

BOYNEXTDOOR is truly about to be next door as they’re coming to Manila for their first-ever world tour KNOCK ON Vol.1! Catch the boy group at the Araneta Coliseum on March 22, 2025.

M2M (May 1 and 2)

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After 25 years, the beloved Norwegian pop duo M2M is reuniting for their first-ever headlining tour, and it kicks off in Asia with two shows in Manila on May 1 and 2, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum.

ADO (May 8)

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Japanese artist Ado, known for her work on the soundtracks of SPY x FAMILY and ONE PIECE FILM: RED, is coming to Manila next year as part of her 2025 World Tour with a show at MOA Arena on May 8.

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