Janine Berdin Announces Debut Album "Lab Songs Ng Mga Tanga" Set for September 26 Release

MANILA, Philippines — Janine Berdin, acclaimed singer-songwriter, is preparing to launch her much-anticipated debut album titled "Lab Songs Ng Mga Tanga" on September 26. The album promises an unvarnished exploration of love, heartbreak, and healing, reflecting the intense emotions tied to being "stupidly in love," as described by Berdin. Ahead of the album release, Berdin introduced the single "Hayup Ka," a powerful track addressing themes of gaslighting, manipulation, and the strength needed to break free from toxic relationships. Its raw lyrics and heartfelt performance set the emotional tone for the full album. Reflecting on her songwriting process during a recent press conference, Berdin revealed, "I really write quick because it’s just like words in my head when I’m feeling the thing — it’s like word vomit." She further explained the challenge lay in ensuring the accompanying music complemented the message perfectly. Expressing deep appreciation for her fans, Berdin said, "I would really like to thank you na sinasakyan niyo lahat ng trip ko. This is my first album after being in the industry for seven years. This album is yours. My music is yours. It’s ours." In a candid moment, she shared a quirky anecdote, laughingly admitting, "I wrote a lot of songs from this record while on the toilet. That’s just TMI — but it’s true!" Recently, Berdin was also honored as part of Spotify’s EQUAL Philippines program, which highlights female artists who are shaping the future of music in the country. With its candid themes and emotional depth, "Lab Songs Ng Mga Tanga" is positioned to mark a significant milestone in Berdin’s career, reinforcing her status as one of Original Pilipino Music’s most distinctive and fearless talents.

September Cultural and Entertainment Highlights: Art, Music, Theater, and More Across Metro Manila

Arts and entertainment enthusiasts in Metro Manila are greeted with an array of events starting this weekend, ranging from immersive exhibits to compelling theater productions and concerts. At Shangri-La Plaza, the Museum of Speaking Skin, an innovative space curated by Lactacyd, opens on September 25 and runs through September 28, offering visitors a unique exploration of skin science presented as living art. Admission to the exhibit is complimentary. In support of journalist Pablo Tariman, longtime friends organize a fundraising concert titled "Let the Wind Blow: A Bouquet for Pablo" on September 26 at 7:30 p.m., held at Mirror Theatre Studio, SJG Center in Poblacion, Makati City. The lineup includes internationally acclaimed tenor Arthur Espiritu and distinguished performers such as sopranos Stefanie Quintin Avila and Angeli Benipayo, among others. Tickets can be secured by contacting the provided phone numbers or email. Theatergoers can anticipate the opening of 9 Works Theatrical's production of "The Bodyguard The Musical," premiering September 26 at the new Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati. Directed by Robbie Guevara, this adaptation stars West End talents Christine Allado and Matt Blaker and runs until October 19. Tickets are available on TicketWorld. Meanwhile, the Gateway Art Fair returns from September 26 to October 5 at Gateway Mall 1 and 2, showcasing monumental artworks including Leeroy New's sculptures and notable installations by Agnes Lenon and Franxyz Paulo throughout Araneta City. Music fans have multiple highlights including pop-R&B artist HILLARI’s headline show on September 26 at Linya-Linya HQ in Libis, Quezon City. Tickets are available online. Renowned Filipina pianist Cecile Licad embarks on a nationwide concert tour, performing in venues across Baguio, Antipolo, Quezon City, Iloilo, and Catanduanes between September 27 and October 11. Sports events include the Philippine Fencing Association’s 3rd leg Minime and Veterans ranking competition at Gateway Mall on September 27-28, and a newly opened chess and Scrabble play area at Farmers Plaza, Quezon City during the same dates. Art aficionados may visit the Ateneo Art Gallery starting September 28 for a retrospective exhibition of Mauro “Malang” Santos’ drawings and paintings from his six-decade career, on display until February 28, 2026. Pet lovers are invited to participate in Mars Petcare's 10th "Run Fur Life" fun run on September 28 at Bridgetowne Estate, Pasig City, aimed at supporting animal rescues and promoting responsible pet ownership. Film enthusiasts can now catch "One Battle After Another," the long-awaited thriller directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, showing nationwide in theaters and IMAX. K-pop followers have the chance to watch "Cha Eun-Woo: Memories in Cinemas," a limited concert film screening exclusively at select Ayala Malls showcasing the artist’s performances and behind-the-scenes footage. In music collaborations, J-pop icons Kenshi Yonezu and Hikaru Utada released "JANE DOE," the ending theme for the anime movie "Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc," along with an official music video. Families with children can enjoy "Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie," the cinematic debut of beloved children's characters, playing at Ayala Malls Cinemas. Cross-cultural music collaboration continues with Thai band Tilly Birds and Filipino folk-pop group Ben&Ben releasing the single "Heaven," now streaming globally. National University volleyball coach Kenan has launched a music career with his debut single "Sabi Mo," inspired by 1990s and early 2000s pop-rock sounds, available across digital platforms. Theater adaptations include "Dagitab," a stage retelling of the award-winning film, running at Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater until September 28; "Shorts & Briefs," an 11th annual theater festival featuring first-time playwrights and performers from September 20 to October 5 in Pasig; and "Para Kay B," a production based on National Artist Ricky Lee’s novel, running through September 28 at Ateneo’s Doreen Black Box Theater. Adding to the theatrical scene, "Pingkian: Isang Musikal," winner of the 2024 Aliw Award for Best Musical, continues its run at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez in CCP Complex until October 12. GMG Productions stages the UK touring production of "Dear Evan Hansen" at The Theatre at Solaire until October 5, narrating the story of a socially anxious high schooler seeking acceptance. PETA Theater Center’s original Filipino musical "Walang Aray," set during the 1896 Philippine revolution, is running until October 12 with original and new cast members. For younger audiences, Repertory Theater for Young Audiences presents "Alice in Wonderland" every weekend until December 14 at REP Eastwood Theater, promising an interactive theatrical experience for children. This diverse lineup of events reflects Metro Manila’s vibrant cultural scene, offering a variety of engagements in art, music, dance, sports, and community activities for residents and visitors alike.

BINI Announces Spectacular Year-End Concert "BINIfied" at Philippine Arena

The Philippines' premier P-pop girl group, BINI, is set to close 2025 with an unforgettable concert event titled "BINIfied." Scheduled for November 29 at the renowned Philippine Arena, the eight-member group recently released a teaser that has sparked tremendous excitement among fans. The group's official Instagram account described the upcoming show as a high-energy spectacle featuring new stages, fresh songs, and individual performances. The post assured fans that it will be a concert experience leaving no one disappointed, saying, \"Fresh stages? Like OMG! New songs? EEEYYYY! Solo slays? ABSOLUTELY! It\'s the kind of concert where no one will leave unsatisfied.\" Throughout the year, BINI has consistently broken records, topped music charts, and established themselves as a powerful force in the local P-pop scene. Their viral hits and dynamic live performances have distinguished them not just as followers of the global K-pop trend but as innovators forging their unique path. Setting the Philippine Arena as their largest venue to date underscores the significance of "BINIfied." The concert promises to deliver an immersive experience featuring bold concepts, intricate choreography, and the unmistakable charisma that defines BINI. The production aims to embody the group\'s artistic growth and evolution. For BINI\'s dedicated fanbase, known as Bloom, this event represents more than just a concert; it is a celebration of the evolving P-pop movement. It serves as a testament to the genre\'s growing permanence, with BINI continuing to lead the charge, captivating audiences one stage at a time.

AZ Martinez and Ralph De Leon Delight Fans in Intimate Meet-and-Greet Event

AZ Martinez and Ralph De Leon recently held an enchanting fan meet-and-greet event that left attendees thrilled. Documented in an Instagram Reel shared by Sparkle, Ralph made a striking entrance dressed in all-white while descending a staircase. The pair engaged fans with interactive games, celebratory photos, and shared several heartfelt moments throughout the gathering. A spectacular fireworks display further heightened the festive atmosphere. Both AZ and Ralph expressed their gratitude toward the event organizers and fans who braved adverse weather conditions to join the celebration. Initially known as the RAZ duo, their partnership quickly captured widespread attention during their stint on "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition," where their chemistry earned them the affectionate moniker "AZRalph." Among their most talked-about moments are their reunion after Ralph’s eviction and their eventual wildcard return, which captivated audiences nationwide. Since their "PBB" experience, the duo has continued to engage fans through selfies and collaborative videos, strengthening their bond with supporters. Recently, they expanded their collaboration by starring together in the music video for Le John’s single "Naiilang," continuing to showcase their chemistry beyond reality television. The event not only celebrated their growing careers but also reaffirmed the strong connection between AZ Martinez, Ralph De Leon, and their dedicated fanbase.

Lee Chae-min to Visit Manila as Part of Asia Fan Meeting Tour Following Success of 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty'

South Korean actor Lee Chae-min, widely admired for his portrayal of the charismatic king in the hit Netflix K-drama "Bon Appétit, Your Majesty," is preparing to visit Manila as part of his first-ever Asia fan meeting tour titled "Chaem-into You." The tour is set to begin in Seoul on October 24 and 25, with stops planned in several key Asian cities such as Jakarta, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Chengdu, Taipei, Tokyo, and Manila. Details regarding the Manila event are yet to be announced. Fans attending can expect intimate fan interactions, diverse performances, and opportunities to experience different facets of the actor’s talents. "Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" centers on the enchanting story of Ji-young, a modern chef who travels back in time to the Joseon Dynasty, played by Lim Yoon-a, and Lee Chae-min's role as the mercurial king with a refined taste for gourmet cuisine. The series has garnered praise for its vibrant mix of royal culinary battles, dazzling cooking displays, and a compelling narrative exploring themes of power, love, and perseverance. The show has significantly elevated Chae-min’s international profile, despite his already notable career marked by roles in popular dramas like "Crash Course in Romance," "Hierarchy," and "Crushology 101." The drama’s reception on Netflix has been remarkable, having reached the No. 1 position on the Global Netflix Non-English TV chart and maintaining a strong presence in the top rankings across numerous countries. One of the series’ standout moments includes a dramatic fusion dish combining galbijjim and boeuf bourguignon, symbolizing the show’s unique blend of emotional storytelling and culinary creativity. Social media platforms flourished with fan-generated content including edits, recipe reenactments, and fan theories, which amplified the series’ momentum and deepened engagement with its audience. With over 6.8 million views by its fourth week and placing in the Top 10 in 65 countries, "Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" has been recognized as a global success. The New York Times praised it as a genre-blending romantic comedy that uses cooking as a central metaphor for love. As the series concluded, both Lee Chae-min and Lim Yoon-a expressed their heartfelt appreciation to fans worldwide. Lim Yoon-a remarked, "Thank you so much for the love you\'ve shown \"Bon Appétit, Your Majesty.\"" Lee Chae-min added, "I\'m truly grateful for all the love you\'ve given our series." The drama is available exclusively for streaming on Netflix, continuing to entice viewers with its mix of romance, history, and gastronomic artistry.

"Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" Concludes with Record-Breaking Finale on Netflix

Netflix's original series "Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" aired its final episode on Sunday night, concluding its narrative with a highly praised ending that resonated strongly with viewers. The finale reportedly garnered the highest ratings in the show's history, emerging as the most-watched program broadcast on Sunday across South Korea. Leading actors Lee Chae Min and Im Yoon Ah commemorated the series finale by sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes photos via their Instagram accounts. Lee Chae Min posted glimpses of the cast interacting on set, while Im Yoon Ah reflected on the memorable culinary dishes showcased throughout the series, such as Gochujang butter bibimbap, Doenjang pasta, and Doenjang soup. "Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" narrates the journey of an acclaimed chef who mysteriously travels back to the Joseon dynasty following a solar eclipse, blending historical drama with culinary themes. In the Philippines, the show consistently secured the top position in Netflix's rankings until the release of "Alice in Borderland" Season 3, which took the lead. Upon the finale's release, it ranked second among the "Top 10 TV Shows in the Philippines Today" on the streaming platform. In conjunction with the series' success, Lee Chae Min is planning to hold a fan meeting event in the Philippines soon, with additional details expected to be announced in the near future. The series' blend of history, food, and romance has evidently captivated audiences across multiple countries, cementing its place as a notable success in Netflix's content lineup.

ABS-CBN Remains Premier Media and Entertainment Leader in the Philippines

ABS-CBN stands as the foremost media and entertainment company in the Philippines, providing top-tier content across television, radio, digital channels, and film. The company is dedicated to serving the public interest and promoting core Filipino values through its diverse offerings. ABS-CBN consistently connects and inspires audiences both domestically and internationally, maintaining its leadership position in the industry. Its corporate structure emphasizes strong governance, investor relations, and broad international distribution, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth and quality service.

SB19’s Justin De Dios Debuts as Ec’naad in "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre"

SB19 member Justin De Dios has revealed his initial nerves when cast as Ec’naad in the hit fantasy series "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre." In a recent interview, the P-pop star admitted that acting is a new territory for him, citing his lack of experience in the field. "At first, kinabahan po ako kasi wala akong experience talaga sa acting eh. It\'s something different," Justin shared, disclosing his initial apprehension. Despite this, Justin expressed excitement about the role, noting that acting was a challenge he had always been eager to pursue. "Na-excite [ako] because it\'s something different. It\'s something that I wanted to try din even before pa." Portraying Ec’naad, the gatekeeper of the Devas, Justin emphasized his commitment to proving his worth in the role: "Nakakagulat lang din kasi, \'yun nga, wala naman kaming background sa acting pero nabigyan ako ng opportunity for this one. So, I think that I should take it and kailangan ko lang mag-work hard para masabi kong deserve ko \'yung role na ‘to." The singer's inaugural appearance on the show aired Monday evening, immediately generating buzz as his character trended on X (formerly Twitter), securing two trending spots. Prior to his debut, Justin prepared extensively through acting workshops and fight choreography training to embody his character authentically. "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre" features an ensemble cast including Bianca Umali, Angel Guardian, Faith Da Silva, and Kelvin Miranda. The series broadcasts on GMA Network weekdays at 8 p.m., following the newscast "24 Oras," with episodes also accessible online via the Kapuso Stream on YouTube.

Infinix GT 30 Pro Declared Official Tournament Phone for MPL PH Season 16

The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines (MPL PH) has officially designated the Infinix GT 30 Pro as its tournament phone for Season 16, highlighting Infinix’s expanding influence in the esports sector. The smartphone went through a demanding three-stage evaluation before being entrusted to pro players as their primary device during competition. The GT 30 Pro was initially subjected to extensive stress testing focusing on speed, stability, and power efficiency at Infinix and MOONTON Games’ Shanghai headquarters. Subsequent real broadcast simulations ensured the device’s flawless integration with MPL PH’s production infrastructure. Finally, professional MPL PH teams used the phone during scrimmages and practice sessions, confirming its responsiveness, comfort, and durability under intense gaming conditions. Edward Jay Dapadap of Aurora Gaming shared his reaction, stating, \"The experience we had with the Infinix GT 30 Pro was solid. The response is fast, gameplay is smooth, and there’s no hassle even with long hours of practice. It really feels like it was made for Mobile Legends gameplay.\" The GT 30 Pro’s launch at MPL PH Season 16 demonstrates that a tournament-grade smartphone can successfully balance high performance with accessibility. Equipped with advanced gaming features, a sleek, futuristic design, and robust functionality, the device is redefining expectations for both players and fans in the mobile gaming community. MPL PH talents also commended the phone’s gameplay capabilities and its standout appearance. Aaron Paul \"Burrito\" Gaddi commented, \"I really enjoyed the GT Trigger feature. I spam it for recalls in MLBB, and it’s easily available in shops. The design is futuristic and definitely eye-catching in public.\" Similarly, Theo \"Uomi\" Ignacio expressed surprise at the value offered, stating, \"The performance and design exceeded my expectations. I didn’t realize phones under 30,000 pesos could deliver such a high level of performance until I used the GT 30 Pro.\" This collaboration between Infinix and MPL PH represents a milestone in making professional esports technology accessible to everyday gamers. The GT 30 Pro is available in Blade White, Shadow Ash, and Dark Flare finishes. Interested buyers can purchase the Infinix GT 30 Pro at official Infinix outlets nationwide or through online platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. For further updates, promotions, and tips, follow Infinix on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and join the XFan Community on Facebook.

Engelbert Humperdinck Returns to Cebu for ‘The Last Waltz Farewell Tour’ in 2025

Engelbert Humperdinck, the renowned English ballad singer known for his romantic hits, is set to grace the stage in Cebu once again during his “The Last Waltz Farewell Tour.” At 89 years old, the music icon continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his classic love songs. The much-anticipated concert is scheduled for November 7, 2025, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. Humperdinck expressed a warm connection to Cebu, describing the city as a favorite destination that feels like home. In an online interview, he remarked, \"I’ve played in Cebu before, and it’s one of my favorite places to perform. This time, I hope I’m even better. The audience knows what I did before, and I can’t wait for them to come back and see me again.\" His music has long held a special place in Filipino culture. Ballads like \"Release Me,\" \"The Last Waltz,\" and \"A Man Without Love\" remain staples at karaoke sessions and family gatherings. Humperdinck credits karaoke’s enduring popularity for keeping his songs alive across generations, stating, \"Most of my songs are in karaoke machines, and I think that’s one of the reasons why my music has stayed alive. It’s very flattering, karaoke has kept my songs going for generations.\" Despite his extensive career spanning over six decades and millions of records sold, Humperdinck remains committed to delivering meticulously crafted performances. He emphasized the importance of professionalism in every show, paying close attention to sound, lighting, and audience feedback. \"I take the show all over the world, get audience reactions, and learn what songs people like and what songs to take out. It’s a question of knowing what the audience wants,\" he said. Maintaining his vocal strength at age 89 is a testament to his passion for singing. \"I take steam. I exercise my voice. I just keep it going,\" he explained. \"The more I sing, the stronger my voice becomes — that’s why I love being with an audience.\" Since the passing of his wife Patricia, Humperdinck has found new depth and sensitivity in his lyrics, adding emotional layers to his performances. \"Since her passing, I read the lyrics much differently than before. They have more sensitivity to them now, and it seems that every song includes a memory of her,\" he revealed. To delight his Filipino fans further, he disclosed plans to perform a song in the Filipino language during his Cebu concert, calling it a \"very, very nice\" gesture. He also acknowledged the respect he receives from local artists and impersonators who honor his distinctive style and voice. Humperdinck’s upcoming Cebu concert is poised to be a memorable event for longtime fans and new listeners alike, celebrating a career that has touched hearts across generations.