Kwento Ni Toto

2025/10/16

Why Eat Pizza’s 10-Inch Sliders Make Every Craving Easy to Satisfy

Toto 10/16/2025 08:30:00 AM

Food cravings often lead us to discover places worth coming back to, and Eat Pizza is one of them. With the opening of its 7th branch at SM City Fairview, the brand continues to share its signature Korean-inspired pizzas—bold flavors served in a fun and easy-to-eat way.

What makes Eat Pizza different is its idea of giving everyone a “slide for EveryWant.” Whether your group can’t agree on toppings or you just want to explore more than one flavor, their 10-inch sliders make it possible to satisfy all tastes without the usual mess of a big, round pizza.

A Personal Take: My Pizza Review

I got the chance to try some of their offerings, and here’s what stood out for me:

Plenty of choices. Eat Pizza has a wide variety of flavors—from Korean Sausage and Hot & Spicy Bulgogi to classic favorites like Pepperoni and Cheese. Even those who want something sweet can go for Sweet Corn Cheese or Sweet Milk.

The dough matters. One thing I noticed is that their dough stays soft even when it’s no longer hot. Of course, it tastes best when freshly served, but I appreciated that it doesn’t turn hard or chewy after cooling.

Convenience in size. The 10-inch slider is just the right size to enjoy without making a mess. It’s easy to hold, share, and finish—perfect for a quick bite or a barkada hangout.

Flavors for Every Mood

Eat Pizza embraces the idea that pizza should be fun and flexible. Craving something savory? Try Samgyeopsal or Korean Sausage. In the mood for something safe and familiar? Pepperoni or Classic Cheese won’t disappoint. Feeling adventurous? Go for Sweet Potato or Sweet Corn Cheese.

The rectangular shape adds a unique touch, and with its perfectly baked crust, every bite feels balanced—just the right crunch on the outside and soft inside.

Beyond Pizza

To complete the meal, Eat Pizza also offers tasty sides such as Spaghetti, Carbonara, Sweet Potato Corn Cheese, and even Tteokbokki with Cheese. These are perfect add-ons for anyone who wants a fuller dining experience.

Opening Day Energy

During the grand opening, Eat Pizza rolled out a special “Year of Slide” promo, giving the first 10 customers 12 monthly vouchers for free pizza. Guests were also entertained by the NU Dance Troupe, whose energetic performance brought extra excitement to the event.

Final Slice

Eat Pizza at SM City Fairview proves that pizza can be both exciting and convenient. With its wide range of flavors, soft dough, and perfectly portioned 10-inch sliders, it’s a great option whether you’re eating solo or with friends.

So if you’re around Fairview, drop by, grab a slice (or two), and let your cravings decide. After all, at Eat Pizza, there’s truly a “slide for EveryWant.”

2025/10/15

updates

Michaela Marks 20 Years of Style and Empowerment

Marco Polo Demo 10/15/2025 09:22:00 PM

Michaela began its journey in 2005 with the opening of its first boutique on Juan Luna Street in Binondo, Manila. What started as a small shop offering high-quality fashion pieces for women quickly grew to meet the rising demand for stylish and affordable products that cater to diverse lifestyles and social classes.

Two decades later, Michaela has become a symbol of empowerment—first championing women of all backgrounds, and now embracing a broader message of “gender empowerment.” The brand continues to celebrate every Filipina at heart, fostering a community of inclusion, confidence, and self-expression.

Reflection of Strength and Beauty

More than a label, Michaela is a reflection of its customers. Michaela caters to women who are actively pursuing their goals in life, embodying resilience, strength, and style whether a working mother, a student transitioning between academics and work, or a woman who is still discovering herself.

The brand’s collections are made to fit not just the lifestyle of every Filipina but also their values, as the company chooses materials that are durable and elegant. Michaela has stayed true to its commitment: quality and timeless designs.

Fashion with a Purpose

As the fashion industry evolves, so does Michaela. Over the past years, the brand has doubled down on sustainability, embracing vegan leather, eco-conscious production processes, and ethical sourcing. Michaela collaborates only with suppliers who share its dedication to reducing environmental impact, ensuring that beauty and responsibility go hand in hand. But the brand's mission goes beyond the product. Through its MCares initiative, the brand actively supports community programs and environmental campaigns. MCares reflects Michaela’s belief that true fashion doesn’t just look good; it does good.

Crafted by Heritage, Empowered by Women

Michaela was built on a foundation of excellence. Its founder, with a keen interest in designs, infused global expertise into every creation. This legacy lives on in every stitch, blending timeless design with the strength, elegance, and spirit of the Filipina woman. For 20 years, Michaela has stayed true to its philosophy: at Michaela, we make what every woman wants and deserves.

With a commitment to thoughtful design, expert craftsmanship, and empowering style, the brand has become a symbol of everyday luxury and lasting confidence. As Michaela celebrates this milestone, it not only honors the past but also embraces the future, continuing to design with purpose, lead with heart, and uplift women everywhere.

20 Years of Purpose, Powered by You

To commemorate this remarkable journey, Michaela is launching a nationwide anniversary raffle promo. Twenty lucky winners will take home exciting prizes, including the latest Apple Watch Series 10, iPad Mini, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, to thank the loyal customers who have made Michaela’s growth and success possible.

As Michaela looks forward to more years of success, its commitment remains stronger than ever not only to the fashion industry, but also to its social responsibility through its advocacy arm, MCares, which continues to make a positive impact not only in fashion but also in the lives of Filipinos. More than just a brand, Michaela strives to leave a lasting legacy of care, compassion, and progress, creating a ripple effect that touches the hearts of communities it serves.

Wellness

Bea Alonzo Embraces Wellness and Strength with Birch Tree Adult Boost

Marco Polo Demo 10/15/2025 09:12:00 PM

Multi-awarded actress Bea Alonzo shared how she maintains her health and fitness with Birch Tree Adult Boost, the flagship milk brand of Century Pacific Food Inc. and one of the country’s trusted adult milk brands. Living an active lifestyle filled with sports and frequent travels, Alonzo said she values proper nutrition to help her stay energized and keep up with her daily activities.

Bea Alonzo as the newest ambassador of Birch Tree Adult Boost.

“Staying strong and healthy isn’t just a goal; it is a way of life. Drinking the right milk gives me the nutrients that I need to stay strong, healthy, and at my best every day. Gladly, there is Birch Tree Adult Boost milk that can give me the right nutrition,” said Bea Alonzo.

Milk plays an important role at every stage of life as the body evolves over time. Children need it for growth and development, teens rely on it for bone health and cognition, while adults need it for bone strength and immunity. Adults, specifically, require extra vitamins and nutrients for sustenance, which is why Birch Tree Adult Boost is specially formulated to provide that support.

Birch Tree Adult Boost has the Active Tri-Boost formula that supports overall wellness in adults by providing support nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, B-vitamins, Iron, and Zinc. These nutrients help to strengthen immunity, sustain energy, and heighten brain function. Perfect for adults who want to remain healthy and energetic just like Bea.

Bea Alonzo enjoyed a skiing adventure in her Andorra trip, showcasing her passion for active living.

“As I turn 38 this October, I become even more mindful of my health and my body, and I like challenging myself with different ways to maintain good health,” Bea shared. “I like doing workouts like push-ups, squats, planks, and other sporty activities, then I balance it with proper nutrition. Birch Tree Adult Boost gives me that extra support so I can keep up with my busy lifestyle,” she added.

As an award-winning actress and entrepreneur, Bea has built a strong reputation both in entertainment and in business. With her passion for travel and discovering new experiences, she proves that life gets better as we reach our peak years. “We wanted to highlight how milk isn’t just for kids, it’s just as important for adults who want to stay strong, energized, and overall healthy. That’s why we partnered with Bea Alonzo for Birch Tree Adult Boost. She embodies the idea that age is not a limit, you can be at your best at every stage of your life,” shared Greg Banzon, Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer of Century Pacific Food, Inc.

Watch the latest commercial of Birch Tree Adult Boost featuring Bea Alonzo here:
https://bit.ly/BeaAlonzoBTAB.

For more information, please visit https://www.birchtree.com.ph/ or follow Birch Tree on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BirchTreeAdultBoost or @birchtreeadultboost on Instagram for more updates.

2025/10/14

updates

Chef Boy Logro Leads Launch of Easy Training Center for Culinary Professionals

Marco Polo Demo 10/14/2025 12:22:00 AM

EasyBrand officially opened its first Easy Training Center on October 3, 2025, with renowned chef Boy Logro leading its culinary programs. Despite the rainy weather, the launch pushed through as planned, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to growth and resilience in the culinary industry. The new facility aims to serve as a hub for chefs, food entrepreneurs, and beverage professionals to hone their craft and expand their business ventures.

The Easy Training Center marks a new milestone for the country’s culinary and food service community, providing a hands-on learning environment designed for both aspiring and seasoned professionals. Guided by industry experts, the programs focus on practical skills and market-ready knowledge. The grand opening was headlined by EasyPro® ambassador Chef Boy Logro, one of the country’s most celebrated culinary figures, along with the Faces of Easy Brand and other respected mentors—all gathered to welcome a new era of culinary excellence, rain or shine.

The center promises to go beyond typical classroom-style instruction by combining hands-on training, real-world applications, and business-focused insights. With the support of EasyBrand PH and its team of ambassadors, the center aims to redefine food preparation and beverage training, making it accessible, efficient, and profitable for those who want to thrive in the industry.

Chef Boy Logro at the Helm

Chef Boy Logro, widely known for his dynamic energy and world-class experience, will lead the grand opening activities. His sessions will showcase the unique advantage of learning both the traditional way and the Easy way of preparing food and beverages. According to him, the goal is not just to train chefs but to create entrepreneurs who can build sustainable businesses.

“This training center is more than just a place to cook—it’s where we turn passion into livelihood,” said Chef Logro. “We want to train people with skills that are relevant today, from efficient kitchen operations to creative menu development, so they can compete in the growing food service market.”

Programs Tailored for Industry Needs

The Easy Training Center offers specialized programs designed to fit different needs and schedules:

EasyPro® (3-day module): Day 1 focuses on culinary operations, Day 2 explores the difference between traditional methods and the Easy way, and Day 3 concludes with an exam and evaluation.
Easy® Beverage (1-day program): Hands-on training in coffee, milk tea, mocktails, and cocktails, aligning with current café and beverage trends.
Easy® Signature (2-day program): Advanced culinary techniques and creative recipes for professional-level food preparation.

Long-Term Support for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Beyond the grand opening, Easy Training Center is committed to providing continuous mentorship and innovation. By integrating EasyBrand products into training, participants gain firsthand experience in maximizing ingredients for both creativity and efficiency.

With plans to expand in the near future, Easy Training Center envisions becoming a nationwide hub for culinary and beverage education, empowering more Filipinos to start their own food businesses and succeed in the competitive food service market.

The grand opening marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to building a new generation of chefs, café owners, and entrepreneurs who are not only skilled in the kitchen but also ready for the business world.

2025/09/30

updates

Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” Rallies 8,000+ Volunteers Nationwide

Marco Polo Demo 9/30/2025 05:56:00 AM

Century Tuna, the country’s top tuna brand, is rolling out the third year of its award-winning “Saving Our Seas” campaign with a stronger push for marine conservation. In 2025, the initiative will expand to six sites nationwide, highlighting efforts to promote a plastic circular economy and protect the country’s coastal ecosystems.

Representatives from Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), HOPE, brand partners, and volunteers join forces for the “Saving Our Seas” International Coastal Cleanup Day activity in Anilao, Batangas, one of six cleanup sites held nationwide.

The campaign gained fresh momentum during the fan meet of brand ambassador Park Seo Joon, where Filipino fans supported the cause by donating plastic bottles. Building on that response, Century Tuna is taking the program nationwide, encouraging community involvement, volunteerism and wider participation in safeguarding the seas and marine life.

To celebrate this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day, Century Tuna revitalized their campaign initiatives with a more ambitious goal.

Volunteers and divers are working together to safeguard marine life and preserve the oceans.

Started as a single coastal cleanup in Batangas in 2023, it quickly grew into a nationwide movement. This year, the campaign expanded its reach, organizing and supporting coastal cleanup drives across Manila, Batangas, Subic, Davao, Zamboanga, and General Santos City. To cap it off, the campaign attracted over 8,200 volunteers, a significant jump from last year’s 205 volunteers. The volunteers came from various groups such as the local government units, Porto Novo, The Asri, and Pier Uno group of divers, the Philippine Marine Corps, Century Tuna Superbods, employees of Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), and like-minded friends.

Volunteers from Manila, General Santos City, Davao, Batangas, and Zamboanga have united under Century Tuna’s 'Saving Our Seas' campaign.

“Our product comes from the sea, and without healthy oceans, we have nothing,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Century Pacific Food Inc.’s Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division. “This isn’t just about a one-day cleanup, but about raising awareness and creating something sustainable through Aling Tindera and the plastic circular economy. Each piece of plastic collected can be transformed into livelihood opportunities, while keeping it out of the ocean,” he added.

Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division, CPFI, delivers his message of gratitude and commitment to marine preservation.

The campaign targets a 33% increase in plastic collection this year, powered by Century Tuna’s strength in partnerships. From its roots with HOPE’s Aling Tindera waste-to-cash program, the initiative has expanded to more like-minded organizations and individuals, reinforcing its commitment to the plastic circular economy and marine conservation.

“We are truly thankful because Century Tuna is one of HOPE’s biggest sponsors here. Their support is a huge help to our agri-fishery sector and to the livelihood of our communities. With 29 sites across Mabini, from resorts to local communities, this partnership creates a real impact for our people,” said Ms. Caroline Beloso, Friends of HOPE Inc.’s Field Coordinator in Mabini, Batangas.

In Mabini, Batangas, HOPE’s Aling Tindera representatives came together to clear plastic waste from the coast.

Century Tuna also took part in new partner initiatives, including joining the cleanup activities of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Public Services of the City of Manila, and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). The campaign also partnered with other brands such as Shakey’s, Vita Coco, Beach Hut, and Peri-Peri to further strengthen the initiative.

CPFI hands over trash bins to fisherfolk in Mabini, Batangas as a symbol of their commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and helping save our seas.

All these combined efforts resulted in collecting 1,386 kilograms of plastic waste, a significant growth from last year’s 357 kilograms of plastic waste.

In just three years, Saving Our Seas has collected over 100 metric tons of waste, growing from one site to six and becoming a nationwide movement. More than a cleanup, this is about building community, creating livelihoods, and working together for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. With everyone’s commitment, we are confident this will be our most impactful International Coastal Cleanup yet,” shared Mr. Ray Guinoo, Century Pacific Food Inc.’s Assistant Vice President and Marketing Director for Local Tuna Operations.

Ray Guinoo, Director of Marketing at CPFI, thanks volunteers and reaffirms Century Tuna’s commitment to protecting the seas.

The campaign entered its 3rd year with a huge success, amassing a huge number of volunteers and raising its partnership initiatives. The “Saving Our Seas” campaign is a testament to Century Tuna’s strong commitment to becoming the torchbearer of marine protection in the country.

Launched in 2023, Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” campaign aims to put into the spotlight the problems of plastic pollution in marine biodiversity by reinforcing the idea of Plastic Circular Economy through coastal and reef cleanup activities together with an environmental education program in schools.

For more information, please visit https://savingourseas.centurytuna.ph or visit Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

2025/09/27

updates

Eat Pizza’s 7th Branch Opens at SM Fairview With Bold Korean Flavors

Toto 9/27/2025 08:51:00 AM

Eat Pizza has opened its seventh branch at SM City Fairview, bringing its signature “slides”—Korean-inspired pizzas with bold, authentic flavors—to more customers.

The brand has steadily carved its place in the comfort food scene with a wide range of flavors under its “Slide for Everywant” concept, offering choices that cater to different cravings.

It’s a familiar scenario: friends planning a get-together struggle to agree on what to eat. One asks for Korean Sausage, another insists on Pepperoni and Cheese, while someone else leans toward Sweet Corn Cheese. Eat Pizza’s variety was created to solve that dilemma, ensuring everyone gets a slice of what they want.

Why settle with one flavor if we could indulge in a variety of 10-inch pizzas where everyone could get their favorite? This way the table is filled with satisfied cravings, and the result? A perfect moment of shared enjoyment where no one is left hungry for their favorite slice.

The Main Event: A “Slide for EveryWant”

Whether you're craving something sweet, savory, or spicy, Eat Pizza offers a treat for every palate. The unique rectangular shape and perfect crust make it a satisfying and convenient meal for any time of day.

Baked to a perfect crust due to its unique rectangular shape and size, Eat Pizza is the ultimate treat for every craving and occasion. You can "cheese the day" with a bite of Korean-inspired creations like Hot & Spicy Bulgogi, Korean Sausage, Sweet Potato, and Samgyeopsal. For those who prefer more traditional pizza flavors, options include Classic Cheese, and Pepperoni, while for those who believe pineapple belongs on pizza, the Aloha flavor is the perfect choice. Adventurous and sweet eaters can try the Sweet Corn and Sweet Milk flavors.

Eat Pizza ensures there’s a slice for everyone, truly living up to its motto of a “slide for EveryWant".

The Perfect Co-Stars: A Tasty Something on the Side

Have an appetite for sides? Choose between the classic Spaghetti, Carbonara, Sweet Potato Corn Cheese, Sweet and Spicy Corn Cheese, and Teokbokki with Cheese to pair with your pizza pie-fection.

Bringing a Taste of Korea to More Filipinos

Eat Pizza's Grand Opening Promo also offered a "Year of Slide" to the first 10 customers who purchased at least P250 worth of products, providing 12 monthly transferable vouchers for a free pizza redeemable at any branch in the Philippines.

Adding to the excitement, the crowd was treated to a dynamic performance by the NU Dance Troupe, who captivated the audience with a high-energy routine that perfectly matched the vibrant atmosphere of the grand opening.

Eats Pizza is inviting everyone to visit its newest branch at SM City Fairview and dig into the satisfaction that only the original perfectly baked, on-the-go pizza, can create. Come and get the chance to try the original 10-inch Korean pizza and let the taste speak for itself, because as they say, nothing beats the original.

Couldn’t get your hands on the “Year of Slide” promo? Follow Eat Pizza Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok (@eatpizzaph) for grand openings announcements and get a chance to win a year of free pizza.

updates

J-pop Icons Kenshi Yonezu and Hikaru Utada Collaborate on New Track “Jane Doe”

Toto 9/27/2025 06:40:00 AM

Japanese pop star Kenshi Yonezu has teamed up with singer Hikaru Utada for the new track “Jane Doe,” the ending theme for the upcoming Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc. The collaboration, their first together, was written and composed by Yonezu with Utada on vocals.

The official music video, directed by Tomokazu Yamada and featuring both artists, premiered last September 24.

The release comes on the heels of a busy streak for Yonezu. His song “Iris Out,” another theme for Reze Arc, debuted at No. 2 on Spotify’s Top Songs Debut Global Chart. Meanwhile, his earlier hit “Kick Back,” the opening theme for the Chainsaw Man TV anime, became the first Japanese-language track to earn RIAA Platinum certification.

The “JANE DOE” music video features the two artists, dressed entirely in black, sitting apart on benches on a train station platform. It depicts a station platform where passengers heading in different directions briefly cross paths only during boarding and getting off. While waiting for the next train, two passengers who happen to sit on the same bench exert a light gravitational pull on each other, like invisible, large circles. Directed by Tomokazu Yamada, known for music videos including Kenshi Yonezu's “Lemon,” “Uma to Shika,” and “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka! – Sayonara.” Hikaru Utada’s “Mine or Yours,” “A Flower of No Color,” and “Gold -Mata Au Hi Made-,” as well as directing last year’s “SCIENCE FICTION TOUR 2024.”

Of the track, KENSHI YONEZU says, “I started working on the song without giving too much thought to who would sing it. However, as the song began to take shape, it became evident that no one was better suited to it than Utada-san, so I reached out to them. The moment Utada-san’s voice—melancholic, yet sweeping like a gust of wind—came in over the track, I remember being so moved that I let out a sharp gasp. As a songwriter, I feel truly honored to have been given this opportunity.”

HIKARU UTADA adds, “I knew I had to give it a go when I received this offer. Both of us being uncompromising singer-songwriters, we knew better than anybody else where the other comes from, but also faced the challenge of meeting halfway where our styles, as we found in the process, contrast. I hope everyone can feel the new sides that were brought out in us, as we remained true to ourselves and each other.”

Music video director TOMOKAZU YAMADA says, “We spin endlessly in the darkness of the universe, exerting light gravitational pull upon one another. Even when we are close enough to touch, we are all distant stars. Each with its own rotation, each gazing upon its own night. This is truly a collision of galaxies. A moment that is like an eternity, in a place that is neither light nor darkness.”

“IRIS OUT” is already setting another record on the Spotify Japan Daily Chart, achieving the “highest daily play count ever recorded” for six days in a row. “IRIS OUT” debuted on Spotify's Top Songs Debut Global Chart at #2, is also currently at #3 on Apple Music's Global Daily Top 100 chart. The music video for “IRIS OUT” was also released on September 15 and has already surpassed 10 million views on YouTube, generating significant buzz as earning #4 on the Global YouTube Daily Music Videos Charts. Available to watch now.

CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC will be hitting theatres in United States on October 24, 2025 from Sony Pictures Entertainment, who has acquired the worldwide distribution rights for the film. The theatrical release of CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC opened on Friday, September 19th in Japan. Rocket started with a huge hit, topping the weekend box office rankings exceeding the sales of the smash-hit Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle.

ABOUT CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC

The film version of CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC is set after the final episode of the Chainsaw Man TV anime series. It depicts the main character, Denji, who is thrown into an unpredictable destiny by a girl he meets by chance, Reze, alongside the fast-paced action scenes for which MAPPA studio is renowned. The film will be released in more than 50 countries and regions, beginning with Japan on Friday, September 19. CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC will be hitting theatres in United States on Oct 24, 2025. Sony Pictures Entertainment has acquired the worldwide distribution rights for the film and will be releasing it in the country.

The original CHAINSAW MAN series has sold more than 30 million copies and is currently being serialized in the popular Shonen Jump+ magazines. The author is Tatsuki Fujimoto, a genius manga artist who has created a series of high-profile works including Fire Punch, Look Back, and Sayonara Eri. In 2022, the anime series was broadcast by the animation production studio MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan: The Final Season, etc.), and high acclaim was won not only in Japan but also around the world. The anime series has been streamed in over 200 countries and regions.

ABOUT KENSHI YONEZU

After gaining success with Vocaloid music under the stage name HACHI, Kenshi Yonezu began producing under his real name in 2012. In addition to music, he has attracted attention for his album cover illustrations and video productions. The video for his hit single “Lemon”, the long-running theme song for the TV series Unnatural, is the most-viewed music video in Japan, and topped Billboard Japan’s year-end charts for two consecutive years, leaving a mark on music history both in Japan and abroad.

His 2020 album STRAY SHEEP set a record of 1.9 million copies sold with the highest-placing Japanese artist ever to appear on the IFPI year-end global ranking chart. He continued to work tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic, including performing as the first Asian in a virtual concert hosted by the online game Fortnite. Collaborated globally with UNIQLO on their UT collection with the storefront collaboration displays in NY and other 8 UNIQLO stores worldwide. He was awarded an AAC Award, listed in Forbes’ 100 Asian Digital Stars, and received the Minister of NEWS RELEASE Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists.

In 2022, he released “M87” as the theme song for the film Shin Ultraman, and “POP SONG” as the theme song for a PlayStation commercial. His single “KICK BACK,” the opening theme for the TV anime CHAINSAW MAN, made Spotify’s Global Top 50, and became the first Japanese-language song certified Gold by RIAA®. He was also selected as the first and only Japanese artist to be a part of the “RIAA Class of 2023”, with which the association summarized the artists who had flourished in the year.

In 2023, Yonezu released “Tsuki Wo Miteita - Moongazing” as the theme song for the RPG game Final Fantasy XVI, and “Chikyugi - Spinning Globe” – the theme song Studio Ghibli’s animated film The Boy and the Heron (Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature, 2024), directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

In August 2024, Yonezu wrote “Garakuta – JUNK”, the theme song of the movie LAST MILE, and released his sixth studio album, LOST CORNER. In September, Yonezu released an exclusive line of graphic tees in collaboration with Uniqlo, as part of their ongoing UT series celebrating pop culture from around the world. After 11 years, Hachi (Kenshi Yonezu) himself created a new illustration for the VOCALOID song “Donut Hole”, and a fully animated music video based on the illustration. Original chocolate was also released from Godiva Japan as the “GODIVA x HACHI Donut Hole Collection” from October as the first time for Godiva worldwide to create a chocolate collection lineup in collaboration with an artist. In November Yonezu released “Azalea”, a song written as the theme song for the global Netflix series Beyond Goodbye. For the first time in 6 years, appeared at Kohaku Uta Gassen.

In 2025, Yonezu released “Plazma”, a theme to the film Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- and also the theme to its anime series Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-. He then released the theme to the anime series Medalist with a collaboration music video between Kenshi Yonezu and the Winter Olympics gold medalist Yuzuru Hanyu. Yonezu kicked off his largest-scaled world tour, KENSHI YONEZU 2025 WORLD TOUR / JUNK after performing domes in Japan, toured Asia, Europe, and the U.S., drew a total of 440,000 people. Kenshi Yonezu has just recently announced his new tour, KENSHI YONEZU 2026 TOUR / GHOST— a 6-city, 14-show arena headliner across Japan. The tour will kick off in Nagano on November 6, 2026, and will travel through Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, Miyagi, and Kanagawa, concluding on December 17. In September, he dropped his latest track, “IRIS OUT”, the official theme for the new film CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC, and its ending theme "JANE DOE" on 9/22.

As for Yonezu’s music videos, “Lemon” has surpassed 930 million views, continuing to break the records of Japanese artists. It is one of the 16 music videos of his songs that garnered him a commanding record of surpassing 100 million views each (“Lemon,” “Eine Kleine,” “LOSER,” “Peace Sign,” “Haiirotoao (+Masaki Suda),” “orion,” “Flamingo,” “Kanden,” “Fireworks,” “Paprika,” “Shunrai,” “Uma to Shika,” “Spirits of the Sea,” “KICK BACK,” Foorin’s “Paprika” and Masaki Suda’s “Machigaisagashi”). He has over 7.89 million subscribers on his official YouTube channel.

CONNECT WITH KENSHI YONEZU
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

ABOUT HIKARU UTADA

A Japanese singer-songwriter and producer Hikaru Utada debuted with the single ‘Automatic/time will tell’ on December 9, 1998. Their first album First Love remains the best-selling Japanese album of all time. In 2024, they released their first greatest hits album SCIENCE FICTION to commemorate their 25th anniversary of their debut, followed by their first tour in six years ―the nationwide HIKARU UTADA SCIENCE FICTION TOUR 2024. In 2025, continuing a dynamic run of creative output, Utada’s latest digital single “Mine or Yours” has captured attention as the theme for the Ayataka green tea commercial, marking the second consecutive year of Utada’s collaboration with the brand. Electricity Remixes, a limited-edition vinyl released on July 9 featuring three remixes by internationally recognized artists Karen Nyame KG, Arca and salute, has already generated excitement among music fans in Japan and around the world following the earlier digital releases.

CONNECT WITH HIKARU UTADA
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | X | YOUTUBE

2025/09/19

updates

GCash Launches New Livestream Quiz Show for a Cause

Marco Polo Demo 9/19/2025 10:00:00 PM

GCash is reimagining how Filipinos can give back with the launch of Game to Give, a first-of-its-kind livestream quiz show happening on September 19 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM on the @gcashofficial TikTok. The event highlights just how easy it is to give and support a cause with GBayanihan, the in-app donation platform of GCash that lets users give faster, safer, and more seamlessly to advocacies they care about.

Game to Give brings together content creators Lottie B, Show Suzuki, Ashley Rivera, and Hershey Neri, who will face off in a trivia showdown filled with Pinoy pop culture questions. Each creator will be playing for a chosen NGO, with every peso raised during the contest going to their respective organization.

Viewers are also encouraged to donate whatever amount they can. At the end, the winning creator will get 500k for their cause.

GBayanihan is Your Express Lane to Giving Back

GBayanihan donation is a platform built right within the GCash app that lets users directly support verified organizations working across advocacies like education, health, shelter, and community development with just a few taps.

The partner organizations of GBayanihan are vetted by GCash and the Philippine Council for NGO Certification, so users can donate with confidence knowing their support is making a real impact. Whether they are passionate about helping kids get access to quality education, supporting healthcare initiatives, funding shelters, or contributing to long-term community programs, GBayanihan opens up ways for Filipinos to donate to causes they’re truly passionate about.

Some of the partner organizations on the GBayanihan include:

● Education: Hero Foundation, InLife Foundation, and PHINMA Foundation
● Health: Let’s Save the Brain Foundation, UNICEF, and Save the Children Philippines
● Shelter: Cribs Foundation Inc. and the Virlanie Foundation
● Community Development: CFC ANCOP, ABS-CBN Foundation, and World Vision

The GBayanihan platform also enables immediate giving during emergencies. This ensures that when urgent needs arise, donors can mobilize immediately.

With GBayanihan, making a difference is finally as easy as sending money to a friend. Because when it comes to helping out, every peso counts. And now, everyone can be part of the change! Here’s how to give through GBayanihan:

1. On the GCash Dashboard, tap View All
2. Under “Pay” look for and tap on the GBayanihan icon
3. Choose the organization you would like to donate to
4. Input the amount and tap “Confirm”

Every transaction is confirmed instantly, and donors can repeat the process anytime to support multiple causes. Start giving today with GBayanihan.

2025/09/14

updates

SM Prime Launches Manual for a Waste-Free Future

Marco Polo Demo 9/14/2025 06:55:00 PM

Manila. The SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) campaign for a Waste-Free Future and its Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable, or RDC model aims to make segregation simple, easy, and actionable.

In the recent Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025), SM Prime launched the SM Waste Free Future Manual – a playbook that encourages individuals and communities to learn about RDC and building better segregation habits.

Small steps, big impact

In the Philippines, the country generates up to 61,000 tons of waste daily and an annual 2.7 million tons of plastic waste. A figure that will rise with urbanization and poor waste disposal practices.

Inspired by the SM Green Movement’s strong call to action to make sustainability part of everyday life, SM Waste Free Future invites everyone to become part of the solution.

The three categories, RDC, make sorting waste an empowering exercise by focusing on the word “able” meaning having the power, skill, or the opportunity “to do”. The manual’s easy, practical, and inspiring read hopes to encourage readers to do just that –championing segregation systems and proper waste disposal.

Photo caption: Limited number of copies have been printed in support of SM Prime’s sustainability efforts. A digital copy of the manual will be made available for download.

It also features innovative reuse programs of SM Prime’s business units that keep materials in circulation and out of landfills. When done at scale, each contribution can inspire others to follow, creating a ripple effect.

Learn, practice, champion

Done with great reflection during its incubation stages, SM Waste Free Future presented a rethink of waste segregation habits and systems built over time.

“We have to be open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step that’s crucial for advancing waste management solutions,” said SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans “Chico” Sy, during the 2024 World Environment Day program launch.

Today, the campaign is deeply encouraged by institutions and agencies that strongly advocate developmental goals.

In his message of support, Dr. Selva Ramachandran, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lauded the RDC bin labeling system. “Proper waste segregation is an entry point toward a circular economy – one that goes beyond waste management to design out waste, keep materials in circulation, and regenerate natural systems.”

Photo caption: Together for a waste-free future, SM Prime sustainability champions at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025.

All together now

Together, we are stronger than we realize. “This project is not specific to one organization, but one that belongs to an entire society. We welcome everyone to practice this in their everyday lives,” Sy said.

To solve a mounting problem requires all hands on deck. SM Prime firmly believes that together, we can create a sustainable, waste-free future.

“A waste-free future requires shared action from government, business, and communities. May this manual be a catalyst for deeper collaboration, innovation, and circular solutions that support national priorities and the global Sustainable Development Agenda – building systems across sectors that prevent waste, recover valuable resources, and protect our environment for generations to come,” said Dr. Ramachandran.