Puregold engages Pinoy BL community in exciting “My Plantito” fan meet

Ardent viewers of Puregold Channel’s first BL (Boy-Love) series, My Plantito, recently got the chance to engage with the stars of the show—and the creative minds behind it—in an afternoon of fun, kilig, and big surprises at the Puregold QI Central. 

Held last September 16, the fan meet was attended by the cast and crew of My Plantito, which included its sought-after leads Kych Minemoto and Michael Ver, and the rest of the series stars—Ghaelo Salva, Devi Descartin, Elora Espano and Derrick Lauchengco. 

Award-winning director Lemuel Lorca, producer Chris Cahilig, and Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad warmly welcomed the crowd at the fan meet, which was hosted by actor and model VJ Mendoza.

Ms. Piedad was specially thrilled by the huge turnout at the event. “My Plantito’s multitude of fans—BL lovers and plantitos and plantitas—showed up to express their heartwarming support for the series, proving that Puregold is on track with its retailtainment efforts,” she shared. “Trust that we will continue to connect with our customers and followers with more stories that resonate with Filipino romcom lovers.” 

The show’s very own “Charming Charlie,” Kych Minemoto, also showed his appreciation for fans who attended the first-ever My Plantito fan meet. “In this intimate encounter with our followers, we felt their joy, their energy, and saw the smiles on their faces . . . it was priceless!” Kych gushed. “I relish being part of Puregold Channel’s My Plantito, and I’m constantly overwhelmed by the enthusiastic reception of fans from here and abroad."

Michael Ver, the mysterious Miko Plantito, is just as excited. “This fan meet is like a big, warm hug from our viewers. It's touching to see how much they appreciate our work and how they‘re able to relate to our narrative. This is the kind of support that inspires us and Puregold Channel to keep delivering our best.”

During the fan meet, two lucky fans were given the chance to bring home all the items they could grab during the One-Minute Puregold Grocery Hakot.

Another highlight of the event was the performance by Kych Minemoto and Michael Ver, who brought the characters of Charlie and Miko to life right before the eyes of their adoring fans.

A digital series to watch for, My Plantito has been receiving positive feedback from viewers, with each episode gaining over a million views within just a week of posting. Fans extol the series not only for its lighthearted BL storyline, but for the Filipino values it highlights such as family, friendship, love, and fun.


Do you want FREE entertainment? Subscribe now to Puregold Channel on YouTube. For more updates, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and @puregoldph on TikTok.

2Kings Productions is the newest player in PH events and concert scene

2023 has definitely been a breath of fresh air. Following more than 2 years of deafening silence, isolation and purely virtual shenanigans – the world has finally opened up. Parties, concerts and events are back in full swing! If there’s anything we’ve learned thus far, it’s that there is truly nothing quite like experiencing good vibes and human connection with your friends and loved ones (or even strangers!), a drink or two while vibing to your favorite local and international artists. This is where 2Kings Productions comes in.

Founded with a passion for world-class entertainment and creating unparalleled experiences paving the way for memories that last, 2Kings Productions is the newest player in the events and concert scene. Make no mistake – while this local production company has just launched, its founders are definitely seasoned individuals with expertise when it comes to entertainment. 

One-half of this power duo is Henry Angelo Pantollana – an entrepreneur extraordinaire with several successful businesses under his sleeve, spanning through different categories – medical, digital and even trading. With his penchant for good music and experiences paired with his exceptional business acumen, he definitely has a lot to bring to the table in this new venture. He is also celebrating his birthday along with the launch. 

The other half is Moy Macasero also known as “Moymoy Palaboy”, the first ever Filipino Youtube sensation who has made a name for himself in mainstream entertainment as an actor, comedian, singer and songwriter. He was a former MTRCB Board of Director (2017 – 2022) and is currently the Vice Chairman of the Optical Media Board. 

Held on the 9th of September at Xylo, BGC, 2Kings gave esteemed guests a taste of what’s to come in the coming months – copious food and drinks, a party like no other and big surprises that made that night one for the books.

Heartthrob Derick Lauchengco signs management deal with film producer Chris Cahilig

Mister Model Worldwide 2022 titleholder Derick Lauchengco, a promising actor, gets a boost in his showbiz career after signing a management contract with award-winning film producer, director, and public relations entrepreneur Chris Cahilig.

Lauchengco had previously worked with Cahilig as a cast member of the wildly popular and TikTok series 52 Weeks, where he first drew the attention of the netizen for his good looks and acting prowess.

The show wasn’t Lauchengco’s first venture into the public domain. The young man had stood out in the modeling circuit for a few years, even snagging the title Second Prince in the prestigious pageant, Misters of Filipinas. Then in 2021, Lauchengco was named Mister Model Worldwide 2022, a coveted title that led to appearances in numerous film and television projects as well as commercials.

Currently a marketing management student at University of Perpetual Help System-Dalta Las Piñas, and a member of the school’s varsity basketball team, Derick Lauchengco is a figure to watch in the gallery of fresh new showbiz personalities.

Affirming that signing up with Cahilig has been his best career move so far, he says,“Ang lawak na ng experience ni Direk Chris. Sobrang galing niya bilang director at producer, at bilib na bilib ako sa kanya bilang isang manager,” he gushes.“Nagpapasalamat talaga ako sa kanya for this opportunity.”

For Chris Cahilig, talent management is not uncharted territory. By signing up Lauchengco, he is reigniting a dormant passion that had kept him stoked in the not-so-distant past. Those were the years he helped foster the careers of a variety of artists, including the iconic PPop boy band 1:43, actor Bekimon, radio DJs Nicole Hyala and Christsuper, as well as boyband trio JBK.

As a creative artist with manifold interests, Cahilig flourishes as a film and commercial producer and director. He was behindfeature films such as Mia, Echorsis, and Miss Q and A, as well as Puregold Channel’s digital series like Ang Babae sa Likod ng Face Mask, Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile, and 52 Weeks.

Cahilig is also the producer behind My Plantito, a BL-themed romcom series currently released on TikTok. All these have led to his recent appointment as head of the first-ever Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

On the other hand, Lauchengco tested showbiz waters between 2021 and 2023when he played supporting roles in the anthology drama series Regal Studios Presents. He also appeared in Mana Po Legacy: The Family Fortune and Kurdapya.

Lauchengco has high aspirations for his future but he assures his fans that successwill never turn his head. “Kahit anongmarating mo, dapat manatili kang nakaapakpa rin sa lupa.”

The promising young actor likewise believes in having a gratitude attitude. “I will always be thankful sa mga taong tumulongsa akin, lalo noong nagsisimula pa langako. Hinding-hindi ko sila malilimutan. Sana makabawi ako sa kanila and masuklian koang tulong at tiwala na ibinigay nila sa akin. Eto ang magsisilbing gasolina ko para magsumikap lalo.”

When asked about his dream projects, Lauchengco claims he envisions himself in the kind of roles he admired growing up. “Gusto ko talaga maging action star, parangang idol kong si Kuya Coco Martin!”

Cahilig sees this happening for his new talent. “Derick is an exciting and energetic star in the making,” he says. “I am constantly blown away by his fine work ethic and strong potential. I can’t wait to help him reach his dreams. It’s only a matter of time.”


For inquiries, you may contact chriscahilig@insight360ph.com

Kemans Announces Barbie Forteza and David Licauco as Newest Brand Ambassadors

The country’s hottest celebrity love team, Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, of Sparkle GMA Artist Center, who rose to fame because of their undeniable chemistry in the fan-favorite GMA period drama Maria Clara at Ibarra, loosely based on Dr. Jose Rizal’s novel Noli Me Tangere, have been chosen as the newest brand ambassadors of Kemans.

Kemans, the brainchild of CEO Dr. Eric Yapjuangco and his wife, COO Vina Yapjuangco, RPh, is a premium quality, expertly formulated skin care and personal care solutions brand that offers real results. It is FDA-approved, authentic, and proudly Filipino-made.

Barbie Forteza and David Licauco’s flawless skin makes them the perfect endorsers for the brand’s face care line, which includes Retinol Skin Renew Facial Serum, Niacinamide Blemish Blur Facial Serum, Vitamin C Brightening & Regenerating Facial Serum, Ultimate White Radiance Facial Serum, Ultimate White Radiance Beauty Bar 2-Piece Pack, Ultimate White Radiance Exfoliating Toner, Ultimate White Radiance, Overnight Glow Cream, Ultimate White Radiance Advanced Beauty Set, Daily UV ProTech Face & Body Sunscreens, and Daily UV Pro Tech Face Tinted Sunscreen.



The momentous contract signing between Kemans and the GMA stars took place on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 11 am at Café Ysabel in San Juan. Present during the signing were Kemans and The Icon Clinic founder CEO Dr. Eric Yapjuangco and his wife COO Vina Yapjuangco, General Manager Lerma Sta. Cruz, Vice President of Sparkle GMA Artist Center Joy Marcelo, and Sparkle GMA Artist Center Senior Talent Manager Jan Navarro.

Coastal land reclamation: A glimpse into today’s urban development strategies

 Coastal land reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban strategy in places that experience urban growth. 

This is according to a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale, and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78% of these cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in 253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg.

Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, these countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial, and industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. Key drivers like global trade and rapid urbanization are already ubiquitous, so for the next step, these cities desire prestigious place-making efforts and enhanced international reputation. 

“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.

“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar. 

Cities that lead coastal land reclamation 

Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says. 



Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore. 

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area. 

For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.




Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah. 


Palm Jumeirah is an awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map.

Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles. 

Architect Fulgar, who firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.

“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgaron these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.

Best practices of coastal land reclamation

Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments. 

“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar. 

Moreover, Architect Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’ thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and blue spaces to reduce the development's environmental footprint.

“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”