John Arcilla hits the road with a singing carabao in Puregold CinePanalo’s ‘Beast’

 

 

Decades into a distinguished acting career built around valiant soldiers, fathers, and men pushed to their limits, John Arcilla may have finally met his most unusual screen partner yet: a singing carabao.

 

Yes, a singing carabao.

 

The unlikely tandem and their relationship are at the heart of “Beast,” one of seven full-length films competing at the 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival. Directed by Lawrence Fajardo, the movie takes Arcilla into the strange and enchanting territory of magic realism while sticking close to the realities of rural Filipino life.

 

Arcilla plays a farmer who, after completing a final harvest demanded by his landlord, sets off on a journey to Manila.

 

What begins as a seemingly ordinary road trip soon becomes anything but ordinary.

 

Because somewhere along the way, reality starts to shift—and a singing carabao is just the beginning.

 

ARCILLA MAKES THE IMPOSSIBLE FEEL REAL

 

The magic of “Beast” works precisely because Arcilla plays it straight.

 

Rather than allowing the film’s fantasy elements to overwhelm its story, the internationally acclaimed actor anchors everything in something painfully identifiable: the struggles of an ordinary Filipino farmer trying to survive.

 

It is fertile territory for an actor who has spent decades bringing complex Filipino characters to life.

 

The same gravitas Arcilla brought to films such as “Heneral Luna,” “Metro Manila,” and “Birdshot” now enters a completely different cinematic world. Here, hardship and wonder can co-exist and the bizarre can reveal something deeply human.

 

Arcilla gives “Beast” its emotional weight, making audiences believe in the man even when they may not quite comprehend what is happening around him.

 

And that could be exactly what makes the film’s unusual premise work.

 

MORE THAN JUST THE LEADING MAN

 

Arcilla did not merely hoist “Beast” on his shoulders as its star. He also helped bring the film to life as a co-producer.

 

Arcilla’s role marks another step in the evolution of an actor whose career has spanned across theater, television, and cinema—and whose performance in “On the Job: The Missing 8” gave him the distinction of being the first Filipino to win the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival.

 

In “Beast,” Arcilla utilized that heady experience and stature not simply to inhabit a story but also to help make it possible.

 

His move into production empowers him to actively support the kind of Filipino cinema he has spent decades championing as an actor. It also makes “Beast” more than just another acting showcase; it marks another leg in Arcilla’s continuing journey as a Filipino film artist.

 

A ROAD TRIP WORTH TAKING

 

A veteran actor. An aging farmer. A slow journey to Manila. And a carabao that sings.

 

On paper, “Beast” easily sounds like one of Puregold CinePanalo’s most intriguing offerings. But underlying its playful and fantastical premise is a story rooted in the lives of Filipinos who don’t have the luxury of escaping reality.

 

Perhaps that is where its magic truly lies.

 

“Beast” is one of seven full-length films screening at the 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, which runs from September 23 to October 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market!

 

Regular tickets are priced at ₱250, while discounted tickets are ₱200 for PWDs, senior citizens, students, national athletes, and Aling Puring and Perks cardholders. 

 

A ₱2,000 festival pass provides access to all seven full-length films and 19 student shorts. Festival passes will be available starting September 22 at Gateway Cineplex 18, and from September 23 onwards at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma.

 

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 is sponsored by Alaska, Angel, Argentina, Ariel, Bingo, Birch Tree Fortified, Bear Brand, C2, Century Tuna, Champion, Chuckie, Coca-Cola, Colgate, Cream Silk, Datu Puti, Downy, GoodNom Fresh, Great Taste, Del Monte, Jack 'N Jill, Knorr, Lucky Me!, Maggi, Magnolia Real Mayonnaise, Milo, Monde, MY San, Nestea, Nissin, Nivea, Palmolive Naturals, Pantene, Purefoods, Rebisco, Royal, Safeguard, Sprite, Surf, Wilkins, and Zonrox. 

 

FIRST IMPRESSIONS AREN’T EVERYTHING: OONA. MAKES A STATEMENT WITH ‘UNANG TINGIN’

After making an impact with their debut single “Darama,” OONA. is ready to show another side of their artistry with their second single, “Unang Tingin.” Composed of Bella, Jaylou, Kari, Coleen, and Isaki, the group continues to make their presence felt, following the strong introduction they made with “Darama.” Now, with their latest release, OONA. is taking their musical journey a step further with a song that carries a message that goes beyond first impressions.

“Darama” gave audiences their first taste of what OONA. can bring to the music scene, creating an impact and establishing the group’s identity. With “Unang Tingin,” the members are proving that they are not simply here to make noise—they have stories and messages they want to share through their music. The new single explores how easily people can form opinions based on appearances, personalities, or even a single encounter.

At its core, “Unang Tingin” is a reminder that there is always more than what meets the eye. In a world where people are often judged in an instant, the song encourages listeners to take a second look and give others the chance to show who they really are. What we see at first may only be a small part of someone’s story, and sometimes, the most meaningful discoveries happen when we look beyond that initial impression.

Fans will also have the opportunity to celebrate this new chapter with OONA. as the group holds a listening party on September 18 at Westborough Town Center in Silang, Cavite. It will be a chance for fans to experience “Unang Tingin” together and get up close with Bella, Jaylou, Kari, Coleen, and Isaki as they introduce the song and continue building on the momentum created by “Darama.”

With “Darama” making an impact and “Unang Tingin” offering a deeper message, OONA. is showing that their journey is only beginning. First impressions may capture attention, but it is the substance, artistry, and heart behind the music that ultimately make people stay—and OONA. is ready to leave exactly that kind of lasting impression.

Get Ready for “Spit or Swallow” on VMX This September 11

How much are you willing to swallow just to feel accepted?

VMX takes you to the seductive and complicated world of desire and self-discovery in Spit or

Swallow, premiering on September 11.

Starring Kim Yashii as Lena, Rinoa Halili as Astra, and Ghion Espinosa as Cole, Spit or

Swallow follows a young woman torn between her own desires and the need to please others.

Lena is a quiet, obedient college girl who has always lived according to the expectations of

those around her. Though curious about pleasure and intimacy, her understanding has largely

remained within the pages of the books she reads.

Everything changes when she meets Cole, an older and confident man who introduces her to a

relationship filled with lust, validation, and attention. But beneath the excitement lies a dynamic

that slowly pushes Lena to question how much of herself she is willing to surrender, and

whether her choices are truly her own.

Another unexpected connection enters Lena’s life in the form of Astra, a mature and intimidating

substitute professor who sees and treats her differently. As their growing closeness deepens

behind closed doors, feelings Lena has never allowed herself to fully embrace soon awaken.

But when secrets threaten to come to light, the dynamics among the three begin to shift. What

follows puts Lena, Astra, and Cole in an increasingly complicated and manipulative situation

where Lena must ultimately confront what she truly wants and discover whether seeking love

and acceptance is worth losing herself in the process.

From director Sigrid Polon, who previously helmed several VMX hits including Kabitan and Eks,

as well as the Viva Movie Box microdrama Elisa: Batang Kabit, Spit or Swallow explores what

happens when saying yes means swallowing more than you ever wanted to.

To stream Spit or Swallow, subscribe at web.vivamax.net or download the app via Google Play Store, App Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

For payment thru website, you may choose from EC Pay, 7 Eleven, All Day, All Day, PayMongo, GrabPay, GCash, or PayMaya. For payment thru app, you may choose from Globe, Smart, GCash, Paypal, Visa, or Mastercard. 

For payment thru Ecommerce, you may choosefrom Lazada, Comworks, Clickstore, or Paymaya. For payment thru authorized outlets, you may choose from Load Manna, Comworks, Cebuana Lhuillier, Palawan Express, and Load Central. VMX’s cable partners are SkyCable, Cable Link, Wesfardell Connect, Fiber, BCTVI, Cebu Cable, Zenergy HD, Cotabato Cable Television Network Corporation, and Concepcion Pay TV Network, Inc.

In UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar, VMX can be accessed for only

AED35/month. In Europe, VMX can be enjoyed for only 8 GBP/month.

VMX is also available in Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand,

South Korea, Taiwan, Brunei, Macao, Vietnam, Maldives, Australia, New Zealand, USA and

Canada.

For more original Pinoy entertainment, from blockbuster movies to hit TV series from any genre,

visit vivamax.net.

VMX, atin ‘to!

Saving Cherry Is Worth Your Time and Money

🍒🎬 ACTING SKILLS CHECK! THIS CAST IS READY TO SERVE!

Looking for a film that brings together fresh energy, compelling performances, and a cast worth watching? “Saving Cherry” deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Leading the way is Barbie Forteza, who once again gets the opportunity to showcase her impressive acting range. Her performance gives the film an emotional pull and serves as a reminder of why she continues to be one of the most exciting actresses of her generation.

Adding more star power to the film are Mikee Quintos, AC Bonifacio, Mika Salamanca, Sassa Gurl, and Khalil Ramos, each bringing their own personality and talent to the story. The combination of seasoned performers and rising stars makes the ensemble particularly interesting to watch.

More than just the story, Saving Cherry is a film worth checking out for the performances alone. It gives audiences the chance to see these talented artists step into their roles and bring their characters to life.

🍒 So, is it worth watching? Absolutely. If you want to witness Barbie Forteza and this exciting ensemble showcase what they can do on screen, Saving Cherry is definitely one to add to your movie list.

Watch Saving Cherry and see why this talented cast is worth the hype! 🎬👏🏻

Negros Trade Fair marks 40 years of championing MSMEs with SM Supermalls

  

Unveiled during the media launch, the official BÚTLAK video sweeps across Negros—its landscapes, landmarks, fashion, and artistry—bringing the island’s creative spirit to life.

One afternoon at SM Aura was enough to show why generations of shoppers have made the Negros Trade Fair a much-awaited celebration. The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), together with SM Supermalls, officially launched BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair with a preview that brought together the flavors, fashion, craftsmanship, stories, and creative spirit of Negros. From September 22 to 27, 2026, the landmark anniversary edition will bring 178 brands from the Negros Island Region to the SMX Convention Center Aura.

A Journey to Negros—Without Booking a Flight!

One of the media launch’s most evocative moments was the unveiling of the official BÚTLAK video. Taking viewers through the places, flavors, craftsmanship, and stories of Negros, the film offered the kind of visual journey that could make anyone want to book a flight and experience the island for themselves. 

But there is no need to pack a suitcase. This September, Negros is coming to Manila for six days of food, fashion, art, homeware, and handcrafted discoveries at SMX Aura.

ANP President Christina Gaston opened the program, emphasizing the fair’s role in helping creativity become enterprise. “For ANP, MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them. Over 40 years, we have seen small businesses grow into enterprises and local products reach markets once thought beyond their reach,” Gaston said. 

ANP leaders, partners, and Negrense culinary personalities share a celebratory moment at the BÚTLAK media launch.

This was followed by welcome remarks from SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, who underscored how platforms such as the Negros Trade Fair can connect Filipino culture with greater economic opportunity. “Our role is to help open doors. For us, the Negros Trade Fair is a wonderful example of how culture and enterprise can grow together,” Tan said. Through SM for MSMEs, SM Supermalls continues its collaboration with ANP by connecting homegrown businesses to a high-traffic marketplace, greater visibility, new customers, partners, and growth opportunities.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and style icon Tessa Prieto celebrate the color, craft, and unmistakable creative spirit of Negros.

Broadcast journalist Ces Drilon serves as host, guiding guests through an afternoon celebrating Negrense creativity, enterprise, and heritage.

 

A taste of Negros: Guests sample regional flavors and culinary favorites during the media launch—a delicious preview of what awaits at the fair.

 

That journey continued at the table as guests sampled a taste of what awaits at the fair, with Negrense culinary personalities JJ Yulo, Joel Torre, and Chef JP Anglo sharing the flavors and stories of the province. The tasting offered just a first bite of the experience—from comforting regional favorites and heirloom recipes to fresh interpretations by a new generation of food entrepreneurs. 

For Joel Torre—actor, restaurateur, and owner of JT’s Manukan—the pride behind the food is just as important as its flavor. “I’m a proud Negrense. I’m very proud of Negros products,” Torre said. 

Chef JP Anglo linked that same pride to the fair’s ability to keep evolving. “Life is always changing; it’s a constant evolution,” Anglo said. “And that’s why the Negros Trade Fair is thriving through the years—it’s because of that chase to perfection and love for craftsmanship.”

Food, fashion, crafts—and 178 brands to discover

That same spirit is carried by a new generation of brands. Stephanie and Cristina Claparols of Lakat Sustainables described the fair as a place where ideas are exchanged and makers support one another: “To us, this really feels like a family gathering, and there’s a lot of new brands to discover, especially coming from the new generation. I think that’s the most exciting part of it.

Food remains one of the fair’s biggest draws. Visitors can look forward to well-loved names such as Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside newer food concepts, regional specialties, sweet treats, pantry staples, and pasalubong finds. 

As Basti Escalante of the Antonio’s Group put it, “Negrense food goes beyond inasal—there’s a lot more to discover.” 

Beyond the table, the fair offers plenty to wear and bring home. Arête creates handcrafted island-style accessories using indigenous Philippine materials, while Ellege Handcrafted Fashion brings Negros Occidental’s intricate hand-smocking tradition into contemporary clothing. Other fashion and lifestyle labels will showcase resort wear, jewelry, woven pieces, and modern designs rooted in local culture. Home and craft enthusiasts can explore pieces by Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, Artisana Island Crafts, NVC Foundation, and other makers transforming abaca, rattan, bamboo, capiz, ceramics, wild pandan, and repurposed materials into distinctive décor, houseware, art, and furniture. Many of these pieces also sustain artisan livelihoods and help keep community craft traditions alive.

The fair will feature 178 brands across food, fashion, furniture, homeware, art, and local crafts—bringing come for the names they already love and leave with a new favorite—or several. 

Leaders and partners behind BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair come together during the media launch. From left: Royce Cabuñag, AVP and Head of SM Communities; Chef JJ Yulo; Mary Anne Colmenares, NTF Chairperson; Chef Tony Boy Escalante, owner of Antonio’s; Francis Esteban, owner of Breakfast at Antonio’s; Christina Gaston, ANP President; Antonio Sebastian Escalante of Antonio’s; Pats Lim Dy, SAVP for SM Communities; and Joaquin San Agustin, EVP for Marketing of SM Supermalls.

A 40-year legacy designed for the next 40

ANP Vice President Mary Anne Colmenares captured the meaning behind the anniversary theme: “Our roots are found in the traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us. Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots. After 40 years, Negros continues to bloom—and its brightest chapters are still ahead.” The milestone edition is therefore both a homecoming and a new beginning. “We’re celebrating 40 remarkable years—but we’re equally excited about the next 40,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.   More than shopping, this is a celebration of talent, heritage, and heart. Bring your family and friends, support local, and take home a piece of Negros! See you at BÚTLAK!