Puregold CinePanalo announces full-length official entries for its 2026 run

 

 

There was a hush at Cinema 12 of Gateway Cineplex 18 as the screen showed a woman reaching for cocktail cans during the big reveal of the seven official entries in the full-length category of Puregold CinePanalo 2026. The cinematic moment sparked drama and excitement among the gifted filmmakers whose dream projects were set to come to life. 

 

The seven feature films are Joseph Abello’s Wantawsan; BC Amparado’s Mono No Aware; Thop Nazareno’s Apol of my Ai; Carl Joseph Papa and Ian Pangilinan’s Patay Gutom (Dead Hungry); Lawrence Fajardo’s Beast; Mikko Baldoza’s Stuck on You; Rodina Singh’s Multwoh (Patay na Patay Sa’yo).

 

As previously announced, each of the seven entries will receive a production grant of P5,000,000 and a chance to compete for the festival’s awards. The select feature films will be shown on screen alongside twenty short films made exclusively by student filmmakers. 

 

In addition to the cinematic reveal videos, the event also showcased its retail roots by awarding each of the seven official entries with a giant stylized grocery receipt signifying their record-breaking production grant.

 

“The upcoming 2026 Puregold CinePanalo is going to be the festival’s biggest installment yet,” says Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “It was only right that we revealed the Top 7 films with a splash of our own.”

 

Puregold CinePanalo organizers likewise affirm that each of the seven film entries will surely amaze audiences and live up to the lofty expectations set by the success of its past festivals.

 

“Puregold CinePanalo is giving its biggest grants to date, largesse that all seven participants truly deserve by showing us the passion, creativity, and ‘panalo sa husay’ spirit that only Filipino filmmakers can bring,” festival director Chris Cahilig says. “These films are going to make audiences laugh, cry, and everything in between. We can hardly wait for audiences to see what lies ahead at the festival.”

 

Now on its third year, the Puregold CinePanalo has served as a platform for intrepid Filipino filmmakers in crafting their dream projects, some of which were eventually selected to compete at international film festivals across Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

 

“Puregold has always believed in the power of supporting and nurturing Filipino artists,” says Hayagan-Piedad. “It is one of Puregold’s greatest prides that CinePanalo has grown to this level and given so many Filipino filmmakers the chance to produce world-class movies. We have no doubt that the seven films competing next year will be no exception.”

 

The 2026 Puregold CinePanalo will be held next year at the Gateway Cineplex 18 and Ayala Malls. The Festival is proudly supported by Canon Marketing Philippines, CMB Film Services, Terminal Six Post, IM Rentals, the Asia Pacific Film Institute, Stage Post Audio and Music Productions Inc., the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.

For more information on the Puregold CinePanalo, you may stay updated through the official Festival Facebook page at facebook.com/puregoldcinepanalo

LG and Cinemalaya Drive the Future of Filipino Film and Creativity

Honoring the next generation of Filipino filmmakers, LG awards the Cinemalaya 21 winners with the next generation of LG OLED AI TVs that bring every story to life 

Next-generation Filipino filmmakers at Cinemalaya 21 receive LG OLED evo AI TVs

LG Electronics Philippines proudly joins hands with Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival as Major Sponsor, further solidifying its commitment to empowering Filipino artistry and innovation. This year’s theme, “Cinemalaya 21: Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos”, continues the festival’s legacy of celebrating Filipino independent films and supporting new filmmakers, keeping Philippine cinema vibrant with stories that reflect and capture real Filipino life. Since its launch in 2005, Cinemalaya has become one of the country’s most respected film festivals, providing a platform for filmmakers to share inspiring and meaningful stories. 

This partnership reflects LG’s commitment to empowering creativity and the arts through technology, continuously supporting film, design, and visual storytelling that celebrate human imagination. In recognition of outstanding Filipino filmmaking, LG Electronics Philippines awarded LG OLED evo AI C5 TVs to this year’s winning filmmakers.  

Best Film (Full Length) – “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao

The winners of Cinemalaya 21 reflected diversity of Filipino cinema, with 10 full-length features and 10 short films competing in this year’s festival, each offering a unique perspective and voice. The most celebrated film, Best Film (Full Length), was awarded to “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao, a documentary that follows Agnes, Amanda, and Randy, three land rights advocates from Cagayan Valley whose stories embody resilience, hope, and purpose. Amid their disrupted ties to home, the film celebrates their enduring spirit and unyielding will to protect and uplift their communities. 

Best Film (Short Film) – “The Next 24 Hours” by Carl Joseph Papa

Best Film (Short Film) went to “The Next 24 Hours” by Carl Joseph Papa. An animated film that follows Sheila, a young woman whose strength and spirit are tested over the course of a single day. Through expressive visuals and heartfelt storytelling, the film offers an intimate look at the challenges of facing unwanted attention and asserting her independence in a society that often overlooks women’s experiences, capturing courage, resilience, and the quiet determination to stay strong. 

NETPAC Award (Full Length) – “Republika ng Pipolipinas” by Renei Dimla

The NETPAC Award at Cinemalaya, presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema, recognizes films with outstanding artistic merit that contribute to the growth and visibility of Asian cinema. The NETPAC Award (Full Length) went to “Republika ng Pipolipinas” by Renei Dimla, a striking mockumentary centered on Cora Vitug, a farmer who establishes her own community built on empowerment and self-determination. The story highlights that what truly makes a nation great is not its land or history, but the courage of its people, those who continue to dream, create, and stand for change.  

NETPAC Award (Short Film) – “Hasang” by Daniel de la Cruz

The NETPAC Award (Short Film) went to “Hasang” by Daniel de la Cruz, a tender and poetic story that blends myth and memory through the eyes of Boni, a young boy who witnesses his grandmother’s quiet transformation. The film beautifully captures a journey of letting go and embracing mystical truths, revealing the deep interconnectedness of all beings in a world slowly changing around them. 

LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Black technology

With the LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Black technology, every shadow and contrast is rendered with UL-verified true blacks, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the depth and emotion in dramatic scenes. The a11 AI Processor 4K Gen2 ensures next-level visual detail, upscaling every frame and recognizing faces to enhance expressions and depth, bringing characters and stories to life exactly as the filmmaker intended.  

LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Color technology

Brightness Booster Ultimate adds clarity even in bright environments, while Perfect Color guarantees 100% Color Volume and Color Fidelity, that every hue, from subtle tones to vivid landscapes, is displayed with accuracy and vibrancy. AI Picture Pro takes it further by analyzing each frame to enhance resolution, brightness, depth, and clarity, making even the smallest details stand out, ideal for filmmakers who want to see every element of their work in full detail. Completing the experience, the AI Magic Remote allows easy control with gestures or voice commands, letting users navigate effortlessly through film libraries, review footage, or explore creative content with ease.  

LG OLED evo AI TV

The films featured in this year’s Cinemalaya Festival are a powerful showcase of the craft, passion, and vision of Filipino filmmakers. When paired with the right technology, these masterpieces come alive with emotion and precision. Every frame, expression, and subtle detail of light and shadow captures the story’s intent and brings out the depth and beauty within it. Life’s Good when every story captivates and leaves a lasting impact. 

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology—it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at www.lg.com/ph/tv-soundbars/ and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines. 

World Travel Expo Year 9 Runs October 17-19 at Space, One Ayala, Makati

#WorldTravelExpo Opens in Makati with Optimism and Celebration

Cheers and excitement filled SPACE, One Ayala as the World Travel Expo Year 9 officially opened its doors on October 17, 2025, bringing together the country’s vibrant travel community for another year of discovery and connection.

Event Organizer Miles Caballero welcomed guests with heartfelt appreciation, saying,

“Every time we open a new chapter of the World Travel Expo, we are reminded of why we do this—to bring people together, to celebrate the beauty of travel, and to keep our shared passion alive.”

The ribbon-cutting and opening ceremony gathered partners, exhibitors, and guests from across various industries, marking the start of a three-day event that highlights the best in travel, hospitality, and lifestyle.

Now in its ninth year, the World Travel Expo remains a trusted platform for travelers and businesses alike. The event features exclusive airfare and hotel packages, cultural showcases, local and international exhibitors, and interactive experiences designed to inspire every kind of traveler.

Organized by AD Asia Events Group OPC, the Expo remains committed to connecting people, ideas, and opportunities within the growing tourism industry.

Caballero closed her message with a reminder that travel is more than a destination—it is an experience meant to be shared. 

“Let us Discover Beauty. Let us Explore Freely. Let us make this journey unforgettable together.”

100,000 Free Pandesal Given in Oct. 16 "World Pandesal Day" with VP Sara Duterte; Free Medical & Dental Mission Set for Oct. 26

The annual “World Pandesal Day” celebration was held today, October 16, at the 86-year-old Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Barangay Kamuning, Quezon City. This beloved tradition celebrates the nation's favorite bread while highlighting the urgent need to address the age-old problem of hunger, aptly aligning with the United Nations' "World Food Day."

The event provided 100,000 pieces of free warm, fluffy pandesal and other foods like cheese, ham, juices, coffee, etc. free to the public, continuing its legacy of community spirit and charitable giving, primarily for urban poor families. Recipients included public school teachers and students, orphanages, etc. 

A Gathering for a Cause, also Donating Public Schools 

This year's civic and cultural event was honored to welcome Vice President Sara Duterte as its special guest. Kamuning Bakery Cafe has a tradition of hosting prominent leaders; last year's celebration featured Senators Imee Marcos and Ping Lacson, with past visitors including President Bongbong Marcos, former Vice President Leni Robredo, and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

Kamuning Bakery Cafe owner Wilson Lee Flores shared that one of his inspirations for World Pandesal Day is the Biblical story of Jesus multiplying a boy's donation of five loaves and two fishes to feed thousands.

Wilson Lee Flores also announced that as part of Kamuning Bakery Cafe's commitment to donate a rural public school every year, they would pledge to donate a new public school in Davao region which was recently hit by earthquakes and they would ask for the office of Vice-President Sara Duterte to recommend which site. 

Extending the Legacy of Kindness with Free Medical Mission

The generosity of World Pandesal Day extends beyond a single event. As a second part of the celebration, Kamuning Bakery Cafe will hold its annual FREE Medical, Dental and Optical Mission on Sunday, October 26, from 8 AM to 12 Noon, in cooperation with the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center.

Event Details at a Glance:

· 🥐 WORLD PANDESAL DAY CELEBRATION

  · Date: October 16, 2025 (Thursday)

  · Time: 10:00 AM onwards

  · Special Guest: Vice President Sara Duterte

  · Highlight: Distribution of 100,000 free pandesal and other food items

· 🩺 FREE MEDICAL, DENTAL & OPTICAL MISSION

  · Date: October 26, 2025 (Sunday)

  · Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 Noon

  · In Cooperation With: Chinese General Hospital & Medical Center

Location for both events: Kamuning Bakery Cafe, Judge Jimenez Street corner K-1st Street, Brgy. Kamuning, Quezon City.

This initiative is more than a celebration of bread; it is a sustained legacy of kindness. The community is encouraged to share this news and participate in these events.

Other civic projects led by bakery owner, realty businessman, and writer Wilson Lee Flores include the annual donation of rural public school buildings in past years, the non-partisan Pandesal Forum, and the annual "World Poetry Day" celebration on March 21.

Sustaining a Legacy of Inspiration: Regine Velasquez Leads Gabay Guro’s 18-Year Tribute to Teachers

 

Behind every success story stands a teacher — someone who believed first, long before the world took notice. They are mentors, motivators, and second parents who shape lives through patience, compassion, and an unwavering heart for service.

This October 25, 2025 (Saturday) at the Meralco Theatre, Gabay Guro continues its 18-year legacy of honoring the nation’s educators through the Grand Gathering 2025 — the country’s most meaningful celebration dedicated to Filipino teachers — following the successful Teacher’s Fests held in Ilocos Norte, Koronadal, Biñan, and Dumaguete, as well as the National Teachers’ Day celebration at the Mall of Asia Arena last October 6, spearheaded by the Department of Education with a portion led by Gabay Guro. It stands as a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who continue to build the nation — one lesson, one learner, and and life at a time. 

Under the banner theme “Our Teachers: Heroes of Learning, Builders of Tomorrow,” Gabay Guro continues its legacy of uplifting educators through scholarships, livelihood programs, digital training, and community support. Behind this inspiring celebration are the PLDT-Smart Foundation and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), in partnership with PLDT Home, Smart, PLDT Managers’ Club, mWelland the Department of Education (DepEd). Together, they lead this year’s Gabay Guro Grand Gathering, a powerful celebration of gratitude honoring the dedication, resilience, and lifelong service of Filipino teachers who continue to shape the nation’s future.

Leading this year’s tribute is Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Chairperson of Gabay Guro, mWell President and CEO, and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), whose vision continues to empower and inspire educators across the country. Under her leadership, Gabay Guro remains steadfast in championing teachers through scholarships, transformative programs that strengthen the pillars of education and community building. 

“This year’s Grand Gathering is more than a show — it’s a love letter to our teachers,” said Chaye Cabal-Revilla. “Through music, laughter, and celebration, we want them to feel how deeply the nation values their sacrifice and passion. Every performance and every song is a tribute to their unwavering spirit. We want our teachers to laugh, sing, and dance with their favorite stars because they deserve a celebration that mirrors the joy and dedication they bring to every Filipino classroom. This is our way of saying thank you — with music, fun, and heartfelt appreciation.”

An Inspiring Concert Lineup

With the theme "Sayawan, Kasiyahan, Kalusugan at UnliKantahan," this year's Gabay Guro Grand Gathering unites OPM legends and today's rising stars in spectacular "collab" performances that capture the energy and heart of Filipino teachers.

The celebration kicks off with an exciting pre-show featuring the Vibe Hosts and the TML Crew, setting the stage for a day of rhythm, inspiration, and gratitude for teachers across the nation.

The main program opens with the dynamic energy of Teacher Georcelle and G-Force, whose electrifying performance promises to set the tone for a day of celebration and passion.

Audiences will be treated to world-class vocals from OPM's finest — Jed Madela, Jona, Erik Santos, and Poppert Bernadas — as they deliver powerful and emotional renditions that pay tribute to the selflessness and dedication of Filipino teachers.

Adding inspiration to the lineup, the Inspirational Diva Jamie Rivera will uplift the crowd with her timeless songs of faith and gratitude — a fitting reminder of the heart behind every teacher's mission to nurture and guide.

Bringing color and confidence to the stage, Precious Paula Nicole, the Drag Race Philippines Season 1 winner, will dazzle the audience with a stunning and empowering performance that embodies joy, pride, and self-expression.

Completing the all-star celebration, Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid will headline the show with her signature powerhouse vocals and heartfelt tribute to educators — capping the day with a performance that promises to be both emotional and unforgettable.

Guiding the festivities with warmth and charisma are MJ Lastimosa and Dylan Menor, who will serve as the event's hosts — bringing energy, charm, and heartfelt appreciation for the teachers who continue to inspire generations.

As the excitement builds, more artists are expected to join the lineup as the October 25 celebration draws near — promising an even bigger, more inspiring tribute to the nation's modern-day heroes.

Beyond world-class entertainment, teachers attending the Grand Gathering can also look forward to exciting prizes and surprises throughout the event — including cash prizes of up to ₱1 million, gift certificates, Cignal entertainment packages, and the grand prize of a brand new Cherry Tiggo Touring. These rewards symbolize Gabay Guro's gratitude for the teachers' unwavering service and the joy they continue to bring to generations of learners.

Entrance to the Grand Gathering is free, but teachers are encouraged to pre-register through their local DepEd divisions to ensure smooth access to the event.

For teachers who cannot join the face-to-face celebration on October 25, the Gabay Guro Grand Gathering will be livestreamed via the Gabay Guro Facebook page and YouTube channel, allowing educators across the country to take part in this meaningful celebration from wherever they are.

More than just a concert, the Gabay Guro Grand Gathering 2025 is a celebration of heart and purpose — blending entertainment and advocacy under the movement's enduring banner: "Our Teachers: Heroes of Learning, Builders of Tomorrow." For over 18 years, Gabay Guro has been a pillar of support for Filipino educators, empowering them through scholarships, livelihood programs, digital innovations, housing assistance, and training initiatives that help strengthen communities across the country.

As the curtain falls at the Meralco Theatre, the message of Gabay Guro shines brighter than ever: to uplift, empower, and celebrate every Filipino teacher who continues to shape the nation's future — one song, one lesson, and one child at a time.

For more information on how to participate in Gabay Guro's 2025 events, visit their official website, and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages.