Overheat.official from Camarines Sur Wins Best World Music Recording at Awit Awards

Camarines Sur Board Member Donna Onate expressed her excitement as the musical group Overheat.official from Baao earned the Best World Music Recording Award at the prestigious Awit Awards. In a recent social media message, Onate celebrated the group’s achievement, commending their exceptional musical prowess and unwavering commitment. "Congratulations to Overheat.official from Baao, Camarines Sur, for winning the BEST WORLD MUSIC RECORDING AWARD at the Awit Awards powered by Vibe Ph! Your remarkable talent and dedication to music have truly shone through, and this accolade is well-deserved," Onate stated. She emphasized the group’s role in spotlighting the rich musical talent within the Rinconada area and encouraged them to continue motivating audiences through their remarkable artistry. Onate described Overheat.official as world-class talent, taking pride in their accomplishment and representation of the region’s vibrant music scene. The award serves as recognition of both the group's creativity and the growing prominence of local artists in national and international platforms.

"Magpakailanman" to Celebrate 23rd Anniversary with Two-Part Special Featuring Mikee Quintos and Beauty Gonzalez

"Magpakailanman," the celebrated drama anthology, is commemorating its 23rd anniversary with a two-part special featuring Mikee Quintos and Beauty Gonzalez. The upcoming episodes, titled "Ang Babae sa Loob ng Krimen" and "Ang Babae sa Death Row," were announced during a media conference hosted by Mel Tiangco on Monday. These episodes are a collaboration with the GMA Kapuso Foundation. Directed by Zig Dulay, known for his work on "Firefly" and "Green Bones," the special drama follows the intense story of a woman sentenced to death row following the killing of her father. This narrative promises to deliver a gripping portrayal of crime and its ramifications. In addition to the special episodes, "Magpakailanman" will launch its own YouTube channel as part of the anniversary festivities. The channel will feature some of the anthology's most memorable episodes from its extensive history, making these stories accessible to a broader audience online. The two-part anniversary special is scheduled for broadcast on November 29 and December 6 at 8:15 p.m. on the GMA Network, inviting viewers to join in celebrating more than two decades of compelling storytelling.

Former Miss International Lara Quigaman Backs Myrna Esguerra Ahead of Global Pageant

Former Miss International winner Precious Lara Quigaman has expressed her strong support for Myrna Esguerra, this year’s Miss International Philippines, as the young beauty queen prepares to compete at the Miss International 2025 pageant. Quigaman described Esguerra’s story as "truly inspiring," noting her resilience as one of 17 siblings who overcame early hardships, including times of scarcity. "She put herself through school, worked tirelessly for every opportunity, and never gave up. Nothing was handed to her; she earned every step," Quigaman remarked, relating Esguerra's journey to her own experience. Reflecting on her victory in 2005, Quigaman shared, "When I walked onto the Miss International stage two decades ago, I had no financial backing, no connections, and no PR team—only hard work, faith, and a belief in fairness. The pageant allowed women to compete on equal footing where merit and character mattered most." Esguerra, preparing to represent the Philippines in Tokyo on November 27, expressed gratitude as she looks ahead to the competition: "Looking back at this incredible journey, I feel nothing but gratitude. Thank you to everyone who has supported me. Now, with just two days to go, it's time to focus, breathe, and deliver the best performance. Para sa Pilipinas." The Philippines boasts a rich history in Miss International, with six titles won by Gemma Cruz (1964), Aurora Pijuan (1970), Melanie Marquez (1979), Lara Quigaman (2005), Bea Rose Santiago (2013), and Kylie Verzosa (2016). With Esguerra's entry, the country aims to add a seventh crown to its legacy. Quigaman encouraged Filipinos to offer their wholehearted support: "Tomorrow, as she takes the stage, let's cheer, pray, and believe with her as she strives to bring home our 7th Miss International crown. We must support pageants and organizations known for their integrity and genuine empowerment." She concluded with a heartfelt message, "God bless you, Myrna! Let your beauty shine with truth, kindness, and grace. We're behind you all the way." Fans still have the opportunity to support Myrna by voting through the official Miss International app, which could help secure her spot in the Top 20. The 63rd Miss International pageant will be held live from Tokyo this Thursday, November 27.

Marco Masa and Eliza Borromeo Reflect on Public Reaction to Their 'Pinoy Big Brother' Journey

Former "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0" housemates Marco Masa and Eliza Borromeo have shared their astonishment regarding how their stories were portrayed and received by the public. In a recent interview, both stars revealed that not all significant moments inside the "Bahay ni Kuya" were broadcast to the audience. Eliza Borromeo noted, \"I was surprised by the many twists that happened inside the house, and even more so to realize how much I was unaware of while I was still inside.\" Marco Masa echoed similar sentiments, stating, \"It was shocking after spending a month inside assuming everything was fine. I genuinely tried to build meaningful connections and bring out the best in everyone. But coming out, I was taken aback by the public feedback.\" Despite the critiques aimed at both housemates, Marco expressed particular concern for Eliza’s reputation, asserting she was unfairly judged. \"I was worried about her because she is innocent of the accusations. Eliza performed exceptionally well and is truly honest and sincere.\" Both emphasized the importance of the bond they formed inside the house, with Marco mentioning his desire to preserve their connection. Eliza urged fans to consider that the televised footage might only show a slice of reality. \"What you see on screen is just a fraction, and sometimes even that is shown briefly. It’s difficult for me to accept all the comments and opinions when the full story is not told,\" she explained. Eliza also spoke about knowing her true intentions during her time in the house and praised Marco’s kindness and sincerity. \"Marco is genuinely kind, and the connection we built inside the house was not superficial. We continue to cherish it even now.\" Prior to joining the reality show, Marco was part of a popular love team with Sparkle teen star Ashley Sarmiento, having worked together on projects such as "Akusada," "Lolong," and "Maka." Eliza had previously admitted her feelings for fellow Kapamilya artist Miguel Vergara during her stay in the house, while her unexpected bond with Marco became a notable storyline of the season. Marco and Eliza were the second duo evicted from the "Bahay ni Kuya," following Waynona Collings and Reich Alim. "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab 2.0" continues to air weeknights at 9:40 p.m., Saturdays at 6:15 p.m., and Sundays at 10:05 p.m. on GMA Network.

Cebu’s Youth Orchestras Deliver Inspiring Performances Locally and Abroad During Holiday Season

Cebu’s Classic Youth Orchestra (CYO) and Christ Our Mighty Savior (CoMS) Chamber, both founded by Prof. Reynaldo Abellana, held notable performances during the recent holiday season. From December 12 to 14, 2025, the CoMS Chamber embarked on a music tour across Hong Kong and Macau. Their concert, "Praise in Harmony," was themed "Songs of Hope, Healing, Faithfulness and Advent Light." The finale on December 14 was presented in partnership with the Hong Kong Adventist Academy Symphony Orchestra. Opening with a solemn reflection on the ongoing conflicts in Israel, the program featured Christian hymns such as "All the Way My Savior Leads Me," "In Christ Alone," "Nearer, My God to Thee," "He\'s Been Faithful," and "Let There Be Peace on Earth." The concert further addressed recent tragedies in Cebu, including the 6.9-magnitude earthquake on September 30 and Typhoon Tino on November 4, through pieces like "Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee," "Dwelling in Beulah Land," and "When We All Get to Heaven." Highlighting the resilience of communities affected by the November 26 fire in Tai Po\'s Wang Fuk Court apartment complex, the ensemble performed "Side by Side" and "Happiness Is the Lord." The event concluded with a celebration of the Advent season, featuring selections such as "Mansion Over the Hilltop," "Carry the Light," Handel\'s "Hallelujah Chorus," and "Joy to the World." Meanwhile, on November 16, CYO staged "An Evening of Classics" at San Carlos Seminary College under the direction of maestro Obette del Rosario. The concert commenced with Mozart\'s Symphony No. 25 (first movement) and included Saint-Saëns\' "Allegro Appassionato" and "Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso," spotlighting soloists Jaque Mabalcon (cello) and Paul Gilbert Ramos (violin). The second act featured Haydn\'s "The Bird," Anderson\'s "The Syncopated Clock," and selections from "My Neighbor Totoro," performed by the Classic Orchestra Young Ensemble led by conductor France Mabalcon. The finale blended Doyle\'s "Potter Waltz," the overture from "Tanging Yaman," the Visayan song collection "Mga Awit Binisaya," and patriotic piece "Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas" with "4 Voices" and "Golden," performed jointly by CYO and the Classic Orchestra Young Ensemble. Christ Our Mighty Savior Chamber, composed of musicians aged 9 to 21 from Cebu, is a Seventh-day Adventist music ministry group with an extensive performance history that spans over 50 churches in the Philippines and abroad, including tours in Japan, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Europe.

Veteran Actor Bing Davao Dies at 65 Due to Cardiac Arrest

Veteran actor Bing Davao passed away at the age of 65 due to a cardiac arrest. The news was confirmed Saturday by his niece, Rikki Mae Davao, who expressed the family\'s sorrow over his sudden demise. "He passed away early this morning from a cardiac attack," Rikki Mae stated in a message. Bing Davao was the brother of fellow actor Ricky Davao, who also passed away earlier this year in May. Bing was known for his roles in television series such as \"Victor Magtanggol\" and \"The Rich Man\'s Daughter,\" among others. His contributions to the entertainment industry have been remembered fondly by colleagues and fans alike, mourning the loss of a respected figure in Philippine show business.

Academic Experts Highlight the Most Impactful Albums of 2025

In 2025, music across genres has delivered compelling and innovative works that resonate deeply with listeners and critics alike. Academic experts have identified some of the most remarkable albums of the year, showcasing a blend of artistic growth, cultural exploration, and emotional intensity. Yazmin Lacey's sophomore album _Teal Dreams_ represents a confident evolution of her soulful, multi-genre style, weaving themes of personal growth and renewal through memorable melodies and reflective lyrics. Lacey's collaboration with Ezra Collective continues to offer a rich, rhythmic experience that invites listeners into a world of introspection. In the realm of metal, _The Dreaming Prince in Ecstasy_ by Lamp of Murmuur stands out for its fusion of black metal and psychedelic elements, challenging traditional genre norms with vulnerable and romantic themes, diverging from the usual aggressive motifs commonly associated with the style. Rosalía’s _LUX_ is praised for its avant-garde approach, combining operatic classical pop with multilingual lyrics that explore themes of mysticism, gender, and divinity. The album’s intellectual depth is balanced by strikingly relatable songs, making it a rare example of commercially successful and conceptually daring pop music. Junior Brother’s third album, _The End_, uses folk influences and unconventional time signatures to create haunting, atmospheric soundscapes inspired by Irish folklore. The distinctive voice and songwriting style emphasize authenticity and emotional complexity. Neil Hannon’s _Rainy Sunday Afternoon_ with The Divine Comedy revisits his signature blend of catchy melodies and insightful satire. The album balances heartfelt ballads with sharp social commentary, demonstrating his sustained creative vitality after three decades. On the heavier side of the spectrum, The Acacia Strain’s _You Are Safe From God Here_ delivers a powerful, uncompromising metal record that explores isolation and despair with raw intensity. Its dense compositions culminate in a sprawling, atmospheric closer, underscoring the band’s evolution and emotional depth. Lily Allen’s comeback album _West End Girl_ redefines the breakup narrative with candid storytelling inspired by her personal life and experiences during a theatrical project. The album’s directness and cultural references reaffirm Allen’s influential presence in contemporary music. PinkPantheress continues to captivate with _Fancy That_, a concise album blending nostalgic 80s electronic sounds with youthful, relatable lyrics. It highlights her talents as a songwriter and producer, creating a vibrant party atmosphere that appeals to a wide audience. The Thornton brothers, Gene "Malice" and Terrence "Pusha T," return as Clipse with _Let God Sort Em Out_, their first album in 16 years. Produced by Pharrell Williams within Louis Vuitton’s Paris studio, the record combines synth-heavy beats with reflective lyrics that broaden beyond their earlier street narratives. Polish composer and singer Hania Rani’s _Non Fiction: Piano Concerto in Four Movements_ is a neo-minimalist instrumental work inspired by the tragic story of Josimah Feldschuh, a child prodigy from the Warsaw Ghetto. Amid contemporary conflicts, Rani’s album offers a poignant meditation on war, resilience, and humanity. These albums collectively represent a rich tapestry of music in 2025, from experimental pop and metal to folk and classical influences. They highlight artists’ abilities to push creative boundaries while addressing themes of identity, loss, and hope. What album resonated most with you this year? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Carla Abellana Quietly Marks Transition with Wedding Imminent

On December 26, actress Carla Abellana subtly announced the end of one chapter and the beginning of another with a simple yet poignant Instagram Story captioned, \"Last Christmas as a Miss.\" This understated message quietly confirmed her impending marriage just a day before her wedding scheduled for December 27 in Tagaytay. Though she has maintained a low profile regarding her relationship, the post provided a gentle acknowledgment of her upcoming union with her fiancé, non-showbiz professional Dr. Reginald Santos. Alongside this, Carla shared intimate photos from a bridal shower hosted by her beauty clinic sponsor. The images featured her wearing a \"Bride to Be\" sash and smiling warmly among close friends, revealing a serene and personal celebration rather than a public extravaganza. Industry observers had anticipated her absence from the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) awards night, which coincided with her wedding date. Carla stars in \"Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins,\" an official MMFF entry produced by Regal Entertainment, making her decision to prioritize her wedding particularly noteworthy. The scheduling conflict had sparked speculation about her nuptials, which her recent social media update effectively clarified. Earlier this month, Carla also shared an engagement photo featuring her ring, accompanied by white heart emojis and a verse from Jeremiah 29:11, emphasizing hope and purpose — sentiments reflecting her mindset as she prepares for this new chapter. Carla Abellana’s simple phrase \"Last Christmas as a Miss\" encapsulated a deeply personal milestone: a respectful farewell to her single life and an embrace of the future with quiet joy and confidence.

Carla Abellana Weds Dr. Reginald Santos in Intimate Tagaytay Garden Ceremony

Carla Abellana captivated guests as she exchanged vows with her non-showbiz partner, Dr. Reginald Santos, during a weekend ceremony set in a scenic garden in Tagaytay. The actress appeared radiant in a modest wedding dress complemented by a veil adorned with floral appliques, while the groom wore a traditional black and white tuxedo. The intimate event was highlighted through photos shared by the actress's mother, Rea Reyes, and GMA Integrated News. Earlier in the week, Carla had also shared images from her bridal shower, further building anticipation ahead of the nuptials. Despite public interest, Abellana maintained discretion about her relationship, choosing not to publicly address rumors about her wedding until the event took place. Notably, this marks her second marriage, following her previous marriage to actor Tom Rodriguez. Reflecting on this new chapter, the actress opted for a low-key but elegant celebration surrounded by close family and friends, signifying an important milestone in her personal life.

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.