Even if you haven’t heard of Kari Wahlgren, you for sure have heard of her voice work that spans hundreds of characters.

Related: 10 Filipinos You Probably Didn’t Know Were the Voices Behind These Animated Characters

While they may not get the same hype, attention, and, let’s be real, respect as their live-action counterparts, voice actors, and the voice acting industry in general, deserve their flowers just as much. They don’t often appear on screen, but their talented voices have brought to life many of our favorite animated characters, whether that be in anime, cartoons, video games, and more. Kari Wahlgren is one such cool af voice actor you need to know who’s up there with the greats such as Ashley Johnson and Tara Strong.

HUNDREDS OF VOICES, ONE ACTOR 

Like many, Kari came to Los Angeles to become an actress, but it was her voice-acting work that landed her on the map. The versatile performer first made a splash in the VO scene as part of the English dubs of animes, namely serving as the voice of Haruko in the cult-classic anime, FLCL, as her first VO job. 

“I wasn’t familiar with anime,” Kari admits to NYLON Manila in an interview on booking the role. “It was still very much a subculture back then, but I was auditioning for any voiceover opportunities I could. Haruko introduced me to anime and its fan base, and I’ve been so honored to be part of it over the years.” Soon, Kari expanded beyond English dubs and developed her repertoire to include animated television series, movies, and video games. Her voice work is extensive, and we mean extensive, with over 700 characters in her resume that includes Kitana and Mileena in the Mortal Kombat games, Harley Quinn in Gotham Knights, Starfire inTeen Titans, Zatanna in DC Superhero Girls, and Diane Sanchez in Rick and Morty. 

Yeah, she’s that good, and her recent project sees her step into the role of another pop culture icon: Aunt May in Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. Being the newest voice of Aunt May is no easy feat, but Kari says finding her version of the character wasn’t as hard as some might think. “(Showrunner) Jeff Trammell was a lovely guy to work with on this, and Sara Sherman is a great voice director, so it was a comfortable, warm environment to talk with them and find out how we saw Aunt May in this version of Spider-Man.” 

With that, voicing Granny Seiko in the Netflix anime DanDanDan, and more, Kari continues to leave her mark, and for every character she brings to life that becomes a fan-favorite or a pillar of someone’s childhood, she’s filled with a immense amount of gratitude. As she puts it, “Voiceover is often very solitary work, so it’s really meaningful when people tell you that something you did makes a difference in their lives.”  

Get to know more about Kari, her work, why voice actors deserve more respect, and more by reading our full interview with the actress below. 

How did you discover that you’re good at voice-over work?

As a child, I was always running around the house, performing voices from the movies I saw and the books my family read to me. Apparently, when I was five, I told my parents that one day I would be the voice of a Disney princess. So I’ve loved voiceovers for as long as I can remember. I did a lot of singing and theater growing up, and doing voices was always part of that, so it’s always been a part of my creative life. 

You got your start in VO by dubbing anime characters. How did you get those roles and what was it about it that attracted you to them?

During my first year in L.A., I saw a casting notice for an animated show. I auditioned and ultimately got the role, which was Haruko in the anime FLCL. I wasn’t familiar with anime. It was still very much a subculture back then, but I was auditioning for any voiceover opportunities I could. Haruko introduced me to anime and its fan base, and I’ve been so honored to be part of it over the years. I just played Granny Seiko in DanDaDan on Netflix, and it’s been cool to see a whole new generation of people discovering and enjoying anime. 

One of your most recent roles is voicing May Parker in Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. How did you approach the role to give it your own spin considering how popular Aunt May is to many viewers? 

I’ve been loving this show! It always starts with collaboration. You have to work with the creative team to get the feel and vision of the cartoon. Jeff Trammell was a lovely guy to work with on this, and Sara Sherman is a great voice director, so it was a comfortable, warm environment to talk with them and find out how we saw Aunt May in this version of Spider-Man. Plus, I’m a fan of comic books, so I always want to do a good job on these beloved characters…I love them, too!

What’s the best part about the job?

I love that voiceover allows me to play characters that I’d never get to play in real life. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what you look like….it’s very freeing.

Considering that your work rarely involves being immersed in actual sets or locations, how do you immerse yourself in your roles?  

I always imagine what the final project is going to look like. When I’m acting in a cartoon scene, I picture the animation the soundtrack, and all of the action in my head. It puts me right in the moment.

You’ve voiced hundreds of characters, but is there one in particular that stands out to you? 

I just got nominated for my first Emmy for voicing Granny Caterina on Disney Jr.’s Superkitties. I’ve absolutely loved that role. She is a little old grandma who steals things and sings and loves her grandson…I’m having a blast with that character!

How does it feel that your voice has played a pivotal part in shaping many childhoods? 

It’s such an honor. Voiceover is often very solitary work, so it’s really meaningful when people tell you that something you did make a difference in their lives. I never take it for granted.

What’s one thing about voice-over work and being a VO actor that you think more people should know?

It’s a skill. It’s very competitive, and it’s hard to make a career out of it. People think anyone can do it, and it’s just not true…the folks I know who have had long careers in voiceover are amazing actors.

While voice-over work is a critical part of the industry, it sometimes doesn’t get the attention or support it deserves. How do you think people and maybe even the industry can be more supportive or respectful of VO actors? 

My biggest pet peeve is when I tell people I’m a voice actor and they say “Do you do any real acting?” Don’t say that. It’s really insulting.  

For people who may be interested in getting into voice-over work, how can they start? 

Read out loud every day (we don’t always get our scripts in advance), get to know what your voice can do, and study with good people. There’s never been a better time to train with the top VO people online. Learn everything you can to find out what makes your voice special!

Photos by Adam Hendershott 

Continue Reading: Did You Know, 4*Town’s Tae Young From Turning Red Is Actually Voiced By A Filipino?

Why is everyone talking about taxi cabs on TikTok? And what does it have to do with relationships?

Related: What Happens When You Outgrow Online Dating? 

Going through heartbreak can be heavy, especially after going through a relationship (or worse, a situationship) that just didn’t work out. This can be extra painful if your partner isn’t ready to commit. But such is life, and you eventually go your separate ways. Then, picture this: After a while, you’re online and going through your social media. Wait, woah. Is your ex in a committed relationship? Right after they said they didn’t want to have one with you?

It can be stinging to see that happen, and it seems that TikTok found a way to explain that feeling with a new theory making the rounds on social media. Meet The Taxi Cab Theory. You might have seen people yap about it online or mentioned it in the comments section. They might have referenced it when talking about their personal dating life, or they might have gossiped about celebs that might have proved its existence. But what exactly does it mean in the dating space? We’re here to break it down. 

MIRANDA HOBBES, LAWYER & PIONEER

@thereal_aliceb

“Men are like cabs; when they're available, their light goes on. They wake up one day and decide they're ready to settle down, have babies, (whatever), and they turn their light on. [The] next woman they pickup, boom! That's the one they'll marry". – Miranda Hobbes

♬ original sound – Alice Borlongan

Sex and the City is an iconic show that contributed so much to pop culture, and they also have a hand in creating this theory. Miranda brought the idea up in Season 3, Episode 8: The Big Time. Miranda brings the theory up when Charlotte is convinced she’ll marry Trey, that it’s fate. Miranda chimes in, saying that it isn’t fate- but that his “lights” are on. She explains that men are like cabs, that their lights go on when they’re ready to settle. When they find the next woman to pick up, that’s the one they’ll marry. SATC always at the scene of the crime.

This theory poses the idea that men aren’t willing to commit themselves until that sudden shift happens. Basically, the theory views men and their dating habits through the lens of a taxi cab. If they’re ready to commit and settle down, the lights are turned on so to say. But if they aren’t, no amount of effort can make them change their minds. However, what makes the theory particularly interesting is that she mentions that it’s  “dumb luck.”, implying it’s more about the timing of everything. 

GETTING OFF AT THE LAST STOP

The episode came out in the year 2000, and let’s face it, not everything always ages well. But this theory seems to have stuck around, with many people sharing their stories of getting dropped off before seeing their exes commit to other people afterward. The disappointment of realizing you weren’t “the one” makes you wonder if you were just a detour, a side quest, or a stopover to the final destination. All these what ifs can bring up a lot of uncomfortable questions, which is why such a personal experience continues to resonate with so many young people. 

via GIPHY

The theory has seemed to evolve, with people saying it’s not just guys who do this, though men are usually still centered in the conversation. This, partnered with the current dating climate, makes it even more challenging for people to place proper labels or see eye-to-eye when settling down. While it makes some fair points, some netizens have mentioned that the theory isn’t an appropriate way to define such an experience fully. Some view it as simply another case of “right person, wrong time.”

RIGHT PERSON, WRONG TIME?

While this theory might help people navigate their feelings through similar experiences, perhaps it’s not the end-all-be-all explanation. Miranda’s original theory was more about luck rather than observing genuine change in people. Even if two people were compatible in a relationship, who’s to say their current situation would work out long-term? While it can be upsetting to see your ex settle with someone else, it doesn’t automatically mean you weren’t good enough for them or that you were a bad partner. 

via GIPHY

The theory’s biggest flaw is that it primarily considers one person’s perspective. We won’t always get to know what the other person was thinking in the relationship. If anything, it might be unfair for you to be with someone who doesn’t align with your desires. There’s a big chance that it’s no one’s fault. The only “crime” really committed is wanting different things at different times. While the theory occasionally hits, what’s more important is recognizing the nuances a situation like this carries. So, if you just got dropped off at your stop, don’t worry. There’s always a ride that will eventually take you to your destination.

Continue Reading: He’s Loyal, But… 8 Signs You Should Consider Breaking Up With Your Boyfriend Even Though He’s Not Cheating

We always love it when girls support other girls, and it’s extra cool when girl groups support each other.

Related: FLO’s “Access All Areas” Is The Ultimate Album For The Baddies

UK-based girl group FLO has been on the rise ever since their debut, and they continue to slay the game. With their 2024 debut album, Access All Areas, they served pure talent on every track. Besides their riffs and smooth harmonies, the girls have also taken part in writing many of their song. Reneé even produced their track Nocturnal (icon behavior, TBH).

But it isn’t just their own music that FLO sprinkles their baddie energy on. They’ve also lent a hand in creating songs for other artists, with one of those so happen to be K-pop girl group Hearts2Hearts. Take a peek at the credits for the group’s debut single, The Chase, and you’ll find FLO is credited as co-writers on the track. Okay taste! All the girls are girl grouping on this one, and we’re here for it. 

THE NEW GIRLS IN (SM)TOWN

ICYDK, Hearts2Hearts is SM Entertainment’s newest girl group and it consists of Jiwoo, Carmen, Yuha, Stella, Juun, A-na, Ian, and Ye-on. The company has given us some of K-pop’s most iconic girl groups to date, such as Girl’s Generation, f(x), Red Velvet, and aespa, so naturally, the expectations are up there for the 8-member group. With how many genre-defining groups SM has under their belt, we’re interested to see what these new girlies have to offer. And so far, with their dreamy visuals and vocals, we see why people are ready to stan.

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FLO, meanwhile, has an impeccable pen when it comes to writing tracks that hit, and it makes sense why fans were excited to see this crossover. Their songs often feature them singing about love, heartbreak, and being an overall baddie, so FLO stans were interested to hear how their presence would translate into another genre. We’re happy to say they passed the vibe check. The Chase is all about taking leaps and looking for a big adventure, and the song’s gentle R&B flair and sweet lyrics definitely have a hint of FLO in them. 

Many of us know that the music industry can be a competitive one. Women often get (unfairly) pitted against one another in these spaces. So, we love seeing two girl groups work their magic to make a bop. And what makes it even better is that it’s two girl groups we didn’t exactly see coming for a joint slay. But we’re always happy to be proven wrong. Perhaps this might inspire more collabs between other girl groups from different genres and continents. Here’s to more unexpected slays and crossovers.

Check out the music video for The Chase below:

Continue Reading: The Girls Of Global Girl Group UNIS Talk Girlhood And Living Out Their Dreams

There’s a lot more to this show than just the cannibalism.

Related: The New Movies And Shows Of February 2025 That Should Be On Your Watchlist

What happens when a high school girls’ soccer team crash-lands in the middle of the Canadian wilderness? If you guessed survival drama, you’re only halfway there. When it comes to modern series, Yellowjackets is in a league of its own. The show is like Lord of the Flies meets Mean Girls—except with cannibalism, cult vibes, and unhinged female rage. 

For the unfamiliar, Yellowjackets tells the tale of a high school soccer team called the Yellowjackets whose plane crashes in the middle of the forest on their way to a match. The show jumps between two timelines: the ‘90s, where the girls are stranded and forced to do whatever it takes to survive, and the present day, where the now-adult survivors are still haunted by what went down in the woods. 

And let’s be clear: This show doesn’t view teenage years through rose-colored glasses. If you’re looking for that next binge watch that delivers on the drama, tension, and enthralling take on young adulthood and trauma, this show is calling your name. Scroll down for a crash course on why Yellowjackets should be on your watchlist.   

Survival? More Like Savage Mode

Stranded in the mysterious wilderness, the Yellowjackets have to unlearn every “good girl” lesson society drilled into them. Politeness won’t keep you alive—ruthlessness will. A group of mostly young women are left to deal with some of the most traumatic experiences imaginable. 

Even though the surviving Yellowjackets try to live quietly and pretend nothing happened, any attempt at a normal life falls apart the moment someone starts asking questions. What makes the show special is that it doesn’t just delve into what happened in the wilderness, but it shows the survivors as adults, and clearly, they are still not okay. The series (which is currently airing its 3rd season) moves between the past and present, showcasing how the consequences of their actions done during their teenage years have not left, making for compelling plotlines that explore the effects of unhealed trauma. 

@nyrasgalore im sorry but misty is genuinely so funny 😭😭 cc (adjusted) & sp; vaeiyrian dt; @vaeiyrian ★ @katie #yellowjackets #yellowjacketsedit #yellowjacketsedits #yellowjacketsshowtime #mistyquigley #mistyquigleyedit #fyp #fypシ #foryou #foryoupage #trending #xyzabc ♬ original sound – philip

Whether it’s Shauna, who starts as a quiet, popular girl and ends up taking on a ruthless, leadership role after the crash, Lottie, who spirals into a controlling cult-like figure, or Misty, the creepy, socially awkward girl who becomes disturbingly useful and manipulative, each woman’s survival is driven by rage and trauma. 

It’s not just about surviving the wilderness—it’s about how they handle the emotional wreckage that comes with it.

ATE, and left no crumbs 

@epicscreenshots The Yellowjackets casting process was like solving a giant puzzle! Melanie Lynskey and Sophie Nélisse, playing the older and younger versions of Shauna, shared secrets and built a history together. Sophie Thatcher and Juliette Lewis? They have the same mannerisms! Samantha Hanratty and Christina Ricci as Misty? They absolutely nailed it! With Tawny Cypress and Jasmine Savoy Brown as Thaisa, everything clicked, especially with their coordinated gestures. This casting was about more than just a physical match—it was about capturing the spirit of each character. 🎥💛🖤 #Yellowjackets #YellowjacketsCasting #MelanieLynskey #SophieNélisse #SophieThatcher #JulietteLewis #MelanieLynskey #SophieNélisse #SophieThatcher #JulietteLewis #SamanthaHanratty #ChristinaRicci #TawnyCypress #JasmineSavoyBrown #EllaPurnell #LivHewson #KevinAlves #StevenKrueger #CourtneyEaton #WarrenKole #SimoneKessell #LaurenAmbrose #ShaunaShipman #YoungShauna #MistyQuigley #YoungMisty #ThaisaTurner #YoungThaisa #NatalieScatorccio #YoungNatalie #VanPalmer #YoungVan #LottieMatthews #YoungLottie #JackieTaylor #BenScott #AdamMartin #LauraLee #CallieSadecki #CoachBen #SamanthaHanratty #ChristinaRicci #TawnyCypress #JasmineSavoyBrown #MistyQuigley #ShaunaShipman #ThaisaTurner #BehindTheScenes #CastingProcess #TVDrama #EnsembleCast #TVShows #ShowtimeSeries #CastingPuzzle #Acting #CharacterDevelopment #MysterySeries #PsychologicalThriller #TVActors #ActressLife #TVEnsemble #YoungAndOld #MatchingMannerisms #SpiritOfTheCharacter #TVProduction #EnsembleActing #YellowjacketsFans #BehindTheScenesLook #CharacterCasting #YellowjacketsSeason #CastingDirectors #OnSetVibes #ShowtimeOriginal #YellowjacketsLove #TVShowCast #YellowjacketsBTS #MistyMisty #YellowjacketsFandom #ShaunaAndMisty #ShaunaAndThaisa #ChristinaRicciFans #JulietteLewisFans #SamanthaHanrattyFans #SophieThatcherFans #TVShowLove #YellowjacketsObsessed #YellowjacketsHype #CastingGenius #OnScreenMagic #BehindTheScenesTV #YellowjacketsSeries #ThrillerSeries #TVDramaFans #ShowtimeHit #TVCastPerfection #YellowjacketsFamily #TVShowOfTheYear #MustWatchTV #CastingMagic #IconicCast #MistyAndShauna #YellowjacketsJourney #ThaisaTurnerFans #ShaunaShipmanFans #MistyQuigleyFans #TawnyCypressFans #JasmineSavoyBrownFans #YellowjacketsTV ♬ original sound – EpicScreenShots

Yellowjackets has a killer cast, mixing familiar faces with up-and-coming stars. Christina Ricci, the original Wednesday Addams from The Addams Family and Sleepy Hollow, brings her signature eerie energy as adult Misty. Sophie Thatcher, one of horror’s newest it-girls and fresh off Heretic and Companion, totally owns the role of Natalie. 

Ella Purnell, who voiced Jinx in Arcane and starred in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, plays Jackie, while Sarah Desjardins, known from Riverdale and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, absolutely nails it as Callie. Seriously, this cast is everything and they deliver both as individuals and as an ensemble. 

Violence? Unapologetic AF

via GIPHY

In most media, female anger is something that needs to be “fixed”—but not in Yellowjackets. Here, the women are allowed to be angry, messy, and downright violent without any attempt to sugarcoat it. 

The hype around Yellowjackets usually revolves around trying to figure out who’s going to be the next Antler Queen or Pit Girl—two mysterious figures linked to some seriously messed-up rituals and power struggles in the wild. In Season 2, we saw Lottie (played by Simone Kessell) who steps into the new Antler Queen position and takes control. Meanwhile, the identity of the Pit Girl, a tragic and brutal victim, leaves us questioning who will step into the deadly role next. 

But honestly, the show’s twists and turns make it clear that these answers are never that straightforward. As the layers peel back, the real drama isn’t who’s next—it’s how far they’re willing to go.

Why We Eat This Up (Pun Intended)

Watching women let loose and go full chaos mode? It’s cathartic. There’s just something about watching women’s rage on screen, especially one that’s not rooted in or driven by men. In a world that constantly tells women to “calm down,” Yellowjackets flips the script and says, “nah, let’s burn it all down instead.” 

Just like Shauna’s twisted mind games, Misty’s chillingly effective ways, and Natalie’s self-destructive path—they all seem chaotic, but when you dig deeper, it’s clear why they act the way they do.

@imboycrzy yellowjackets season 3. #fyp #edits #aestheticedits #yellowjackets #yellowjacketsedit #yellowjacketsshowtime #yj #yjedit #yellowjacketsseason3 ♬ original sound – boycrazy

The show keeps circling around this heavy question: “Once you’ve eaten your friend, how do you go back to normal life?” Spoiler: you really can’t. It’s kind of like Plato’s cave allegory, but in real life—they can’t go back to their old lives. Crazy, right? The whole thing is about the transformation from innocence to something much darker, which makes for a transfixing binge.    

With Season 3 already here, the rage levels are only going up. Will the survivors embrace the darkness they left in the woods, or will it consume them? Either way, Yellowjackets isn’t just about survival—it’s about what happens when women stop holding back. And if the past seasons are any clue, things are only going to get messier.

You can stream Yellowjackets seasons 1 and 2 on Prime Video with season 3 currently airing on Paramount+. 

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Besides giving us heavenly R&B jams, Raveena also gives us a reason to continue dreaming.

Related: Meet The Filipina Makeup Artist Who Did Raveena’s Eye-Catching Wanderland Look

Many of us have probably felt hopeless when looking at the state of the world. As it becomes increasingly unrecognizable amidst climate change and other challenges, it doesn’t always feel like things will be okay for us. How do we move on if we constantly feel the weight of a collapsing world? For R&B singer Raveena, she looks towards the future with a more optimistic lens—and her music does, too. 

Photo by Erika Kamano

Her recent single, Sun Don’t Leave Me, reflects on the state of the planet but also sees her leading with love. This sentiment runs throughout the lyrics from her newest album, Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain (a deluxe version is set to drop on February 28). She questions the ways of the world, something people tend to feel paralyzed or apathetic in doing. Yet, she continues to move. What drives these projects home is her honesty and curiosity, and that’s perhaps the best way to characterize her. 

From her love for the earth to detaching from the concept of celebrity, she continues to live authentically. We can all learn from her commitment to a better tomorrow in her music and everyday life. It’s an energy she brings no matter the venue, from this year’s PLUS63 Festival to the studio in Pasig where we caught up with the musician ahead of her festival performance. Check out our full interview with Raveena below. 

Hi Raveena! Welcome back to the Philippines. You’ve been having an eventful February, as you’re here for the PLUS63 Festival! How does it feel to be back?

Hi! Thank you. I love the Philippines, the people are so sweet here. It reminds me a lot of India. Even the smells remind me of India. 

You also dropped your single “Sun Don’t Leave Me” this month. Can you tell us more about what inspired the track and what the writing process was like?

That song is kind of inspired by climate grief, watching the world change so drastically, even in just my few decades of being alive. Just watching the earth really decay and natural disasters happen more and more. As a person that really loves the earth, it’s hard to witness. So that song is about grief in that way.

You’ve always centered nature as a major theme in your work. What draws you to that imagery? 

I think that it’s so synonymous with presence and meditation. Whenever I’m in a forest or nature, that’s when I feel the most alive, it’s when I feel the most connected to my soul, it’s when I feel the best. I just try to just cherish that.

Speaking of imagery, you’ve also been known for incredible visuals that add to the musical experience. What/who are your inspirations when conceptualizing that aspect of your artistry?

Oooh, so many! I look a lot to Bollywood, I also look a lot to 70’s visuals (like 70’s editorials). A lot of surrealist imagery is really big. I love the photography coming out of Korea and Taiwan right now. I think there’s some really incredible stuff happening there that also feels very synonymous with what’s happening in Paris. It’s surrealist and an ode to nature, but in the most strange kind of way. I feel like artists I love visually are Björk, M.I.A., FKA Twigs, like all those kinds of people, more experimental visuals.

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A post shared by Raveena (@raveena_aurora)

How does your Indian roots and heritage shape who you are as an artist? 

I mean, I think in every way, you know. It’s what you grow up around. It’s so natural that those influences find your way. It reminds me of childhood, and I feel like it’s a lot of archival work of my memories. It’s like going back into the archives of my memories and discovering again those first sounds that hit my body as a kid.

You’ve opened up in the past online about detaching yourself from the concept of “celebrity” and fame to focus on your craft. May I ask how that shift in focus changes/betters the creative process for you?

I think some of that world, I mean all of it, feels really connected to the material, towards results. It’s really entrenched in capitalism, it’s not a natural concept to be hyper-famous, or like [a] celebrity, or all these things. I think that in this album process, I really focused on removing myself from distractions like being online, removing myself from my public perception, and just focusing on becoming a really open vessel for music. It’s [fame] so idolized as a lifestyle when it can be very empty sometimes when you’re so deep in it.

You’ve always honored healing and growth as a part of making music, and I think you shared that sentiment when your latest album, “Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain” was released. How has focusing on healing as a part of your music changed your life?

I think I’m just learning that part of healing is boundaries. Having boundaries with your time and boundaries with your space. It’s been a process getting to do my dreams, but also learning that I have to have boundaries even with the dreams. Cause sometimes, when you’re young and you’re chasing a dream, you don’t realize how parts of it can become unhealthy for you, or you’re overworking yourself. So I think a lot of the healing process was being like, “I’m a human first.”

You’re set to drop the deluxe edition of Where the Butterflies Go in the Rain this February 28, and the new songs touch upon climate grief but also hope for a better tomorrow. How do you think people can stay optimistic in the face of tough times and increasing destruction of the environment? 

I think we have to allow ourselves to dream of a utopia and really create a clear picture of it in our minds. Cause if we don’t know where we’re going or what we’re shooting for, and we’re just getting lost in the news cycles, the grief, and the pain every day we’re gonna get stuck there, we’re not going to be able to get to that next place.

I think giving yourself the grace to know that all the news will be there for you [it will be okay]. If you take a week to reset your nervous system, do that. Take that time to care for yourself and dream, create that vision of a utopia, be in nature, and understand what utopia even means for you and your community. If we don’t have a regulated nervous system, and we don’t have a dream, then we lose everything.

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A post shared by Raveena (@raveena_aurora)

That’s such a beautiful way to put it. It reminds me of this quote I read recently. It’s not word for word, but it talks about not letting anger be the only thing operating you but letting love be a force to drive you as well.

Exactly, and it’s so hard. I was in the midst of one of the world’s worst natural disasters in America [the LA fires] because my house was in the eye of the fire, and I’m still displaced. I still can’t go back home. I didn’t lose my house but it’s just too dangerous. I’ve just really had to contend with grief and real loss, pain, and hurt towards what’s happening with the earth. Like you said, I can’t let sadness rule me right now. I did let it for a couple of weeks, but now I’m like, “Okay I have to move on, I have to find some kind of optimism”. Because if I don’t, then I won’t be able to grow.

Let’s say someone asks you for advice on their own personal healing journey. What would you recommend they do to get started?

I would say that it all roots back to the breath. Just taking 5 minutes per day, like just practicing turning off your phone, being quiet, and focusing on your breath moving in and out. That can open up a whole portal towards meditation, being more in touch with your body. There’s a myriad of practices to do. That’s all you need to start. It’s that mindful breath.

Going back to the topic of growth, what’s something(s) you’d like to do this 2025?

Oooh, I haven’t thought of that. Something I wanna do is… I’m thinking of building an ecovillage on a farm with my friends. I really wanna lay down the roots to that this year. At least start to research and explore the location cause we’re looking at a lot of locations. It’s gonna be such a long-term process. It’ll probably take a decade to even do it. I really want to commit to starting that this year.

Filipino fans are more than excited to see you come back, and we also know your upcoming performance will be an introduction to you for new listeners. What do you wish Filipino audiences would take away from seeing you for the first time?

I feel like in America and the Philippines, there’s such a crossover of the love of R&B. I just hope they feel filled up with that, all that soulful music.

For people who may have not heard of you yet, what song/s of yours would you recommend they check out first so they can get a sense of who you are as an artist? 

I think Lose My Focus is a really good one. Headaches, probably for an older song. Rise is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever made. Maybe something from Lucid. I always love Floating or Still Dreaming; those are some good Lucid songs, Petal is a great Lucid song. And then Honey is a classic.

Continue Reading: Meet Lara Andallo, The Filipino-Australian R&B Artist You’ll Want To Be Obsessed With

What’s a new SB19 era without a magazine cover that signifies the group’s influence in Southeast Asia and beyond?

Related: VMAN Goes Global With The Arrival Of VMAN SEA This Year 

2025 is proving to be a particularly exciting year for SB19 and A’TIN. After releasing singles throughout 2024, the boys are back big time with not only a new single called DAM dropping on February 28 but also a new EP in April and their Simula at Wakas World Tour that kicks off with a historic concert at the Philippine Arena on May 31. 

We been knew SB19 is perpetually busy, but these coming months feel extra special given all the new content we’ll be getting. And speaking of new content, SB19 is set to get their first magazine cover of their new era as a cover star on the latest issue of VMAN SEA.

FROM SOUTHEAST ASIA TO THE WORLD

Recently, VMAN SEA announced The Spring Fashion issue, and it features SB19 as one of two covers, making them the first P-pop group and the first music group at that to front the regional publication. The issue will feature SB19’s exclusive fashion editorial with one cover showcasing the boys serving in the latest spring fashion. And regardless of which cover you purchase, both versions of the magazine will include SB19’s fashion editorial. 

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It’s no secret that SB19’s influence has grown over the years, both in the Philippines and abroad. Their cover with VMAN SEA further signifies the group’s role in elevating Southeast Asian music globally. The boys are proudly repping regional talent on the cover of VMAN Southeast Asia with how they unapologetically embrace their Filipino identity while still retaining their universal music appeal. A look into the promo materials for Simula at Wakas shows that the group’s penchant for storytelling, symbolism, and culture continues, which helps make their artistry resonate beyond Philippine borders.  

As P-pop continues to grow, SB19 stands at the forefront of taking the genre and Filipino identity to new heights. There’s a reason why many of your P-pop faves call SB19 their kuyas with how they continue to inspire the next generation of artists, both in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. But their influence also extends beyond music. 

It’s admirable how SB19 doesn’t hesitate to integrate their dual roles as artists and cultural ambassadors because they understand the impact and influence they have in showcasing Southeast Asian excellence on the world stage. In a world that still looks to the West or East Asia for the next big thing, we’re here for platforms like VMAN SEA that amplify Southeast Asian talent that deserves the global stage. 

You can get your hands on SB19’s VMAN SEA cover by pre-ordering the magazine now here. 

Continue Reading: The Present is You: justin and Self-Love in the Social Media Era

BINI Aiah is unlocking travel goals we didn’t even know we had.

Related: These 8 Celebs Make Us Want To Pack A Bag And Travel Solo

We’ve all wanted to be like those kinds of travelers that seem to be in different countries every weekend, those true jetsetters and wanderers. If not for money, time, commitments, and a few other things, we’re sure plenty of people would go on adventures all over the world more frequently. But to be honest, if we’ve got the means, BINI Aiah can do it despite being incredibly booked and busy, what’s our excuse?

Kidding aside, Aiah’s truly living her best life as a world traveler. We love an adventurous, spontaneous queen that takes life by the horns and explores what the world has to offer. From traveling solo to trips with family, trying out new sports to hopping from city to city, Aiah is not just checking off all of her travel goals—she’s checking off goals we didn’t even know we had, like traveling abroad with just a shoulder bag. And this is on top of her uber busy schedule as a member of BINI. Talk about travel inspo.

WHO NEEDS A SUITCASE?

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Just recently, Aiah spent her birthday on a day trip to Singapore—and if that doesn’t make you get bitten by the travel bug, know that she did it and packed like she was taking a stroll to the mall. Armed with her shoulder bag, her passport, a powerbank, and a few essentials, Aiah took traveling light to new heights. Not that we’re saying be unprepared when you travel though! But Aiah embodies the sentiment of not overthinking things every once in a while and taking the leap, despite all odds. It’s perhaps not something many will do (or can do!), but traveling to a whole different country for your birthday, just for a day, only carrying a crossbody, is an amusingly enviable travel anecdote and a top-tier icebreaker story.

SEE THE WORLD, DO THE THINGS

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Aiah’s not one to spend a vacation sleeping in and stay at the hotel when she travels. Though those kinds of travelers are still very much valid, the artist prefers to go out into the world and explore, and try out activities she’s never done before. From parasailing in Da Nang to jetskiing in Bali, Aiah’s the kind of traveler that soaks it all up and relishes being in a new place and takes the opportunities available to her.

We could all stand to have that mindset when traveling—to not let time tick on and moments go to waste. It’s a privilege to travel, so take a page from Aiah’s book and make the most of it!

INDEPENDENT GIRLIE

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Aiah first got the chance to travel alone in 2024, and she’s been riding that high ever since. Everyone who gets to travel solo always raves about the solitude, freedom, and independence that it grants. She dispels notions that traveling alone is lonely, unsafe, or boring—it can actually be exciting, healing, and a test of independence.

Though only about a year since her first solo travel experience in Vietnam, she’s also ticked off places like Hong Kong, Bali, and Singapore. “I feel as free as a bird and the whole experience was truly a healing moment for me. I can’t wait to do more solo travels in the future,” she wrote in her Vietnam Instagram post.

LIFE IS SHORT—SAY YES

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Aiah’s most recent trip to Egypt was yet another spontaneous adventure with her equally-adventurous friend. If some of us try to ensure to get visas, documents, and accomodations as early as possible, Aiah simply hoped that her visa would arrive in time—and in time it did. Four hours before her plane took off, to be exact, which is, to many of us, around the time we arrive at the airport before our flights.

Aiah might be one of the busiest people lately, but she’s always down to travel the world in between her schedules. She says yes to spontaneous trips, believing it’ll all work out and pay off in the end. It’s a valuable lesson for those of us who hold off on taking trips or doing anything, really, for one reason or another. Life is short—maybe this is your sign to say yes.

Continue Reading: Lessons On Travel We Can Learn From These Adventurous Filipino Celebs

Call center, marketing, content creation, modeling, acting, and more, EJ Nacion has lived it all in ways that have helped her be the diva that she is today.

Related: Model, Mermaid, Mano Po: Mika Reins On Her Roles And Goals

EJ Nacion isn’t 30 years old yet (she’s turning 29 this year, but her face card is giving 24 and below), yet she has been through enough chapters of her life to be the basis of a memoir. Getting her start in the corporate world after college, EJ lived the corporate girlie fantasy with jobs as a call center agent and marketing executive before eventually transitioning to content creation and modeling (a career move she credits designer Ushi Sato for after a chance encounter at the 2019 Opulence Ball). 

If that wasn’t enough, EJ has also dabbled in acting and is lowkey making history with her next project as she stars in Saving Sarah, the first vertical series in the Philippines. She even plays the mean girl in the show, which is an interesting move considering EJ IRL is a role model and an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights that actively raises awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention.

INSTAGRAM/EJNACION

Regardless of what EJ puts her mind to these days (and it’s a lot, which also includes a YouTube comeback later this year), she makes sure to do so while speaking and living her truth. It’s a state of mind EJ admits took years to develop, but as she’s grown older, she’s learned to do what’s best for her while staying grateful and humble. It’s no wonder how we’re only two months into 2025 and EJ has already bagged a nationwide campaign with BYS, which marks her first in-store beauty campaign. 

The path EJ finds herself on is one that even mean girl energy can’t deny. No one’s stopping this queer baddie with a story to tell, some of which she recently shared with NYLON Manila. Read our full interview with the multi-hyphenate below as she opens up about her recent projects, life as a corporate girlie, and more.

First of all, congratulations on your new BYS campaign. Could you share more about the experience and how you got on the campaign? 

Honestly, when my publicist told me about the campaign, I honestly was kind of like hesitant at first, but I immediately said yes. I was kind of like questioning myself if I am worthy of being part of a beauty campaign again knowing that I’m not really the beauty standard here in the Philippines, and we all know naman here in the Philippines, di ba, we’re mostly leaning towards Eurocentric features, but right now, I’m so happy that a lot of Filipinos are starting to appreciate our own beauty, and that’s why when this was brought up to me, I literally said yes.  

This is your first in-store beauty campaign. So whenever you see yourself or the images you took in the store, how does it feel? Is it like a dream come true moment? 

It honestly feels like a dream come true moment, not going to lie. Growing up, I used to get bullied. As a young queer kid who grew up in Paranaque, who always tries to find a way to prove himself or themselves, I find myself in a space where I always have to prove myself to everyone around me before growing up. 

But then I told myself, I kind of just reminded myself na parang, you know what dedma talaga, I was able to practice the art of deadma along the way. When I was in high school I always thought, na, I have to prove myself 10 times more because I’m queer, and seeing myself in beauty campaigns, or seeing myself working with brands, it’s such a dream come true for me. 

I’ve experienced so many hurdles in my life, challenges, and I never thought I’d be able to get to where I am now. I mean, obviously I still have a long way to go. I still have a lot of things to prove and work on, but, I mean, I’m glad that I’m on the right path.

INSTAGRAM/EJNACION

One of your newest projects is the series Saving Sarah. Could you tell us more about the show? 

It’s actually the first vertical serye here in the Philippines. It originated in China, and they’re actually bringing it here in the Philippines. It’s in this new app called BeetzeePLAY. My character there is called Micah, mean girl siya, so I’m one of the bullies of Sarah (the main character), which is kind of weird, because when I was in high school, I always got bullied. But seeing myself now like doing it, I mean, it was kind of hard at first, going back to acting again.

You play a mean girl in the show, which you aren’t in real life. So how did you internalize the role and at the same time make sure people don’t perceive you like that in real life?  

Honestly, at first it was very hard. It was very hard internalizing, especially my character. She’s actually like the head mean girl of the group, kind of like the Regina George of the group. And it was hard for me at first to internalize because, again, I haven’t gone through any workshops, parang practice lang talaga at home and when I first read the script, I was like, “Oh, this is so mean.” 

I mean, I was really mean to Sarah kasi there’s going to be a part there where things will heat up. It kind of tested my morals not gonna lie. It’s something that was kinda hard for me to play at first, but then again, I kept on reminding myself that this is not you. This is just your character. 

When I was internalizing my character, I also studied,  I watched different films that have the mean girl type, obviously, Regina George. I also watched High School Musical, Sharpay Evans. I wanted to watch different mean girls just so that I know how I’m going to portray Micah as a character. So parang at first, okay naman siya pero may mga times where I kind of struggled. It’s something very far from my character. But at the same time, I’m glad that I was able to pull it off and parang inembrace ko and inner Regina George ko and other mean girl characters I took inspiration from. 

They say it’s a good sign when actors get challenged by their roles. Would you say playing Micah was really a challenge? 

It’s a test of how you’re going to portray your character. And siyempre, this is where my craft comes in. Like, as an artist,  if people get mad at you and because of your character, that means that you’re doing a great job. Like you’re, you’re playing a good character. You really have to play that role.

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You’re only turning 29 this year, but you’ve already lived quite a life with experiences beyond being a creative such as working in corporate. How do you think that past life of yours has helped you become the person that you are today? 

Well, it honestly helped and taught me how to have the grit and also the tenacity to work hard and to pursue what you really want to do in life. When I was in corporate, my first job was a call center agent, and then after that, I took a break for like two years to pursue content and also in the entertainment industry. And I went back to being a corporate girlie, which is how I was a marketing executive for an E-commerce company. So I handled beauty brands at that time, and also lifestyle brands such as Nike and many more. And it taught me a lot of things about life. 

When I was working in corporate, I was juggling a lot of things. I wanted to do content creation. I was also doing acting when I had the spare time. Whatever happens in the reason, I’ll just follow wherever my life takes me. I know for a fact that this is not going to be forever. I’m not going to be forever young, you know, like at this point in life. I’m just going to take whatever is there, and I’m just going to grab every opportunity that comes at me or what life throws at me. 

It taught me how to balance a lot of things at the same time. But most importantly, if you really want to achieve something, or if may gusto, may paraan. For me, I’m just so grateful for everything that I have experienced, especially with my former job. It taught me how to be humble. It taught me how to be grateful and things that I have now and also to pursue the things that I want to pursue in life. 

Because again, just because I’m 29 or just because I’m at this age, doesn’t mean that I can’t pursue whatever you want to pursue in life. Everything happens for a reason. And you know, I guess life has its own ways of explaining or showing you that the reason why that didn’t happen is because you’re meant for bigger things, or you’re meant for the things that you’re meant to be for. 

If your younger self, your teenage self, could see you, what do you think they would tell you? 

Baka maiyak siya. Hindi ko talaga na expect na I would be here. Last year really taught me to just focus on my own lane and if ever my younger self would see it parang, he or she would be happy with where that person is now. I prayed for this for so long. I manifest this not just for me, but for my mom, for the people who believed in me, and I’m so grateful for the people who have helped me along the way. I’m not just doing this for myself. If ever my younger self could see this, they would be so proud of where I am now. 

And I want to give that person a tap in the back and say, “I’m glad na you didn’t give up. I’m glad na you didn’t listen to those voices that were in your head. I’m glad na you didn’t have to dim your shine or you didn’t have to stop just because of the failures that you have faced along the way.” And it honestly made me stronger. 

That’s what I always tell the young creatives now, especially the young models. I always tell them, na parang, just don’t give up on what you feel like you want to do just because people are criticizing you, or people find you weird, or if ever you don’t see any progress. You really have to be kind to yourself in order for the universe to reward you in the things that you want to have, or in the things that you’re going to have in the future. If you’re very kind to yourself, if you really give that love to yourself, all good things will come a long way. Everything will fall into places at the right time. 

INSTAGRAM/EJNACION

It’s safe to say that you’re an open book, but in a way that is very open to sharing their experiences that a lot of young people can learn from. Gen Z can also relate to that feeling of not knowing what they want and going through twists and turns. But you’re showing that it is possible to find what’s meant for you. Do you have any last words you want to share with Gen Z?  

I mean, honestly, that’s something that I really wanted to share, especially to Gen Zs. Growing up, I didn’t have someone who would help me out, or guide me on how to do certain things. I just took the leap. And I think that’s something that I really, really want to share to the youth now, especially to young queer kids. 

Don’t pressure yourself. Enjoy. Really enjoy every single moment that they’re doing, especially if they’re doing it for the first time. Kasi, sometimes people or kids now, they sometimes beat themselves up. And I guess that’s also, I mean, I know it sounds bad and I don’t want to say it’s normal, but we’re humans, and we’re valid to feel that way because, again, we wanted to attain, or we want to achieve certain things in life, and we put a quota to ourselves sometimes. Hindi mo kailangan maging perfect all the time. One of the things I’ve learned along the way is that you are human. 

Nobody’s perfect. It’s okay to make mistakes. Don’t beat yourself up and just keep going. I never thought I’d be able to live in my own place. I’m just so grateful for myself, I wanna give credit to myself because I never gave up. Don’t give up on your dreams just because you experienced a couple of hurdles along the way and that shouldn’t discourage you just because you haven’t seen progress yet. 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Continue Reading: Meet Ron Roxas, A Queer Fashion Design Student Proving Fashion’s Power In Self-Expression

Kaila Estrada’s Max Alvero on ‘Incognito’ is slowly becoming a fan-favorite action hero—and with very good reason.

Related: 5 Reasons Why Kaila Estrada Is On Our It-Girl Radar

Incognito is shaping up to be a promising action-packed series with interesting characters, fun dynamics, great performances, and engaging plot lines. Each character is a familiar archetype, brought to life by the star-studded cast of actors portraying them. One such character, one of the only two women on the main team of seven, has stood out as a true BAMF and endeared audiences to her story and personality.

Max Alvero, played by Kaila Estrada, is a young cyber ops specialist and former military who was dishonorably discharged for insubordination and desertion. She’s quickly become an icon, strong, independent, and helpful, but she’s also a softie at heart. With a set of specialized skills, a painful past, a dead fiancé, but also two loving moms (a welcome touch for a series that airs nationwide), a chance at redemption, and a connection with team leader JB (Richard Gutierrez), Max’s story is a fascinating one.

Kaila Estrada’s found her niche playing stoic, fiesty characters that aren’t complete kontrabidas. She plays tough-but-sensitive very well. Her portrayal of Max Alvero is one of the reasons the character’s a standout BAMF in an action-packed series—but here are the rest!

NO-NONSENSE GIRLBOSS

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Max, right from the get-go, clearly doesn’t take any nonsense from anyone. Not even from her team, especially the ever-comedic Tomas (Anthony Jennings). From unwanted advances to unnecessary actions, Max Alvero shuts any kind of possible nuisance down, taking her work seriously—knowing how dangerous missions could get.

During a mission, she went against orders to abort and went back into gunfire to save her fellow soldier and fiancé Sevi (Victor Silayan), who in turn took bullets to save her life. Max is skilled, tough, brave, and noble, definitely no damsel in distress nor unlikable antagonist, and that puts her in icon category.

NONCHALANT HACKER ICON

Deemed the “best hacker money can buy,” Max has cemented herself as an integral part of the team, able to hack systems and acquire the necessary data and information without so much as a bang moving out of place. She also takes down scammers in her spare time, natch. An expert at deception, she can hack and act her way into any site or system, and she’s as maangas carrying a rifle as she is when she’s typing away on a keyboard.

SHE CAN TAKE CARE OF HERSELF, FR

We love a woman who can hold her own—against a gaggle of creeps, too. Incognito wasted no time in truly showing off what Max (and Kaila) can do as an action hero, taking down a whole bunch of henchmen in one of her earliest scenes.

Though the young-woman-has-to-fight-off-creeps story beat has been done to death, trust that we’ll be cheering when bad guys get their butts handed to them.

When faced with unwanted advances from a bunch of men in Cerdova, Max tries to brush them off in a way that won’t bring any attention to her and the team. But of course, the men just got more aggressive, so she took them down—with some assist from Andres (Daniel Padilla) and her team, but she’s proven that she can take care of business just fine.

GOT SHOT? WALK IT OFF

Max was the first of the Incognito team to take considerable damage, getting wounded during a shootout in Cerdova. Though she encouraged them to go and save themselves, her team wasn’t going to leave her behind—and she was ready to go down fighting. It’s par for the course for characters like theirs to get injured, but she’s still very much a badass for powering through it and putting the mission first.

UNIMAGINABLE STRENGTH

Physical prowess and fighting skill aren’t the only determinants of strength. Back when she was serving, Max witnessed her fellow soldier and fiancé Sevi get shot right in front of her, and watched as he died in her arms. She still keeps wedding planning appointments, listening to Sevi’s old messages. We also see how vulnerable she gets talking to him and reminiscing.

It’s a tragic love story, and while we’d love to see a female action hero whose life is not tethered to or defined by a man in any way, persevering and returning to a life that not only is physically and mentally demanding, but also for sure always reminds her of the darkest moment of her life, takes incredible inner strength. And no one on Earth can say Max Alvero isn’t strong.

Continue Reading: 6 Things You Need To Know About Gen Z Artist And New Girl On Campus Ashtine Olviga

Music festivals are the event of the summer. Here’s what you need to know before attending.

Related: Music Festival Survival Guide: Beauty Essentials

With summer approaching, everyone’s feeling the heat. With clear skies and the sun shining (well, most of the time anyways), everyone’s looking forward to going out and having fun. If you’re looking for the ultimate Hot Girl Summer activity, look no further than attending a music festival. Enjoying your favorite artists, hanging out with your friends, and taking pics for the ‘gram is a combination that makes any event worth attending. Festivals such as Wanderland and &FRIENDS are set to take place during the next few months, giving us time to prep and have a slayful summer ahead. And let’s not forget the other festivals coming our way later this year.  

But what exactly should you prep before you go? Festivals are often whole-day events where you’ll most likely be out in the sun and standing for hours, so best be prepared before you head out. So, whether you’re a newbie or have your fair share of festivals, here are the essentials to bring and remember for your next festival. 

PACK YOUR BAG (THE RIGHT WAY)

via GIPHY

There are a few things you should keep in mind when packing your bags. Check the festival rules to know what you can (and cannot) bring inside the venue. Another thing to consider is that you’ll most likely be standing for long periods, so keep things light, both in items and bag of choice. Lastly, make sure you have all your essentials with you. Items like your phone, charger, power bank, ticket, wallet (with just enough cash for the day), and water bottle (although this may not be allowed depending on the festival rules) are key items to remember. 

Let’s get into some specific items. With the hot weather, fans are a necessity. A simple folding fan will do the job, but if you want to make it easy for yourself, bring a portable fan to help cool yourself off. This is especially useful if you plan on securing barricade and squeezing yourself in between the crowd. Another way to also protect yourself against the sun, or in case it rains, is to bring a portable umbrella. Speaking of keeping cool, there might be times you’ll want to chill in between sets. Bringing a blanket to lay on the ground is a good way to set up your own space to relax your legs in those moments. 

You may also want to pack a few skincare essentials like sunscreen so you don’t damage your skin under all that sun. Whether you stand or sit, the sun (and stage lights) will shine bright, so it won’t hurt to also have a pair of sunglasses in your bag.

GET READY TO SERVE (SENSIBLE) LOOKS

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Philippine weather is notoriously warm, but it never stopped Filipinos from serving looks. Music festivals bring out everyone’s inner model, and rightfully so. If you plan on playing Dress To Impress IRL, this is your chance to do so. Checking out previous festival ‘fits from our fave celebs makes for a good starting point for curating your look. Pinterest has also your back with its never-ending stream of inspo.

Once you’ve figured out what to wear, consider how to make it comfortable. Shoes will definitely be a key part of making the whole ‘fit comfy, as you will be on your feet most of the time. As much as the fashion girlies love a good high heel, we suggest going for something flat to avoid sore feet or a sensible boot. Another thing to factor in is the fabric you’re wearing. As someone who just recently attended her first music festival, I overlooked this part. I wore shorts that were way too warm for the occasion, but since then, I’ve learned my lesson. Keep on serving, but let’s not suffer doing so.

FESTI-QUETTE TO KNOW

via GIPHY

Every festival has their own set of rules to follow. But regardless of which festival you’re attending or even which country it’s in, there are a few universal rules to remember. 

First, being respectful towards fellow audience members is important. As part of the crowd, watching your faves can be a life-changing experience. With everyone wanting to get a glimpse of their idols, most people would try to go towards the front. As much as we all want to get the best view, pushing people is never a good idea for safety and fairness. Maintaining one’s personal space is also important, as everyone should be able to move freely wherever they stand. 

Next, be aware of your surroundings and keep all your valuables near you at all times. You may even want to consider labeling your stuff in case they get lost. While we’re on safety, looking out for fellow festival goers makes for a better experience altogether. If you spot someone getting injured or needing assistance, it’s good to step in and look for the appropriate event staff to help out. 

Third, let’s talk about the artists. If you’re not familiar with everyone in the lineup, showing respect towards them is crucial. Just because you don’t listen to their music doesn’t give you the right to disrespect them. Music festivals present a chance to expand your musical horizons, so coming in with open ears makes for a much more fun experience. Being openly distracted/busy in the middle of a performance can come off as rude, so do focus on stage. For all you know, you might have found a new artist to stan.

Lastly, when you go to a music festival, remember to have fun! You (or your parents/bestie/partner) spent all that money for the ticket, so make the most of it. Whether you’ll be singing your heart out or simply vibing to the music, you’re set for a perfect summer season ahead. 

Continue Reading: Upcoming Concerts, Live Shows, & Fanmeets In The Philippines This 2025