Kwento Ni Toto

2025/08/03

Unilab and Mercury Drug Celebrate 80 Years of Alaga and Malasakit For Their Suki

Marco Polo Demo 8/03/2025 12:10:00 AM

Age may just be a number, but 80 years is a milestone that speaks volumes—of trust, compassion, and unwavering service. On July 31, 2025, two of the country’s most trusted names in health and wellness, Unilab and Mercury Drug, marked their 80th anniversaries with a grand celebration of partnership, community, and gratitude through the Alagang Suki Fest 2025, held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The celebration was more than a concert, it was a heartfelt tribute to the generations of Filipinos, or their Suki, who have made both brands household names. From the first tablet dispensed at the counter to the latest loyalty card swipe, Unilab and Mercury Drug have grown side by side with their customers. And for eight decades, they have stayed true to the Filipino values of "Alaga" (care) and "Malasakit" (compassion), it's not just as brand slogans but as a way of life.

A Night to Remember

The Alagang Suki Fest opened with a dynamic performance by Legit Status, setting the tone for an evening of music, nostalgia, and joy. Headlining the event was Gary Valenciano, fondly known as Mr. Pure Energy, whose performance reminded the audience that age is just a number. His energy and passion, much like the brands he represented, showed no signs of slowing down.

Other acts included rock band Mayonnaise, heartthrobs Maki and Darren Espanto, and the nation’s rising girl group, BINI, who represented the younger generation of brand patrons with their high-energy and colorful performance. Laughter echoed through the coliseum thanks to Comedy Manila’s GB Labrador and James Caraan, who warmed up the crowd with relatable humor.

Celebrity brand ambassadors also made surprise appearances. Jolina Magdangal, radiant as ever, charmed fans during the Neurogen-E segment. Robi Domingo brought laughter and quick wit during Kremil-S, while Belle Mariano lit up the stage for Biogesic, drawing cheers from her fans.

More Than Just a Celebration

While the night was filled with fun, its deeper purpose was never lost. It was a salute to the Suki, the everyday Filipino families who trust Mercury Drug for their medicine needs and Unilab for their health and wellness.

For 80 years, both brands have been constant companions in Filipino homes. Through wars, natural disasters, pandemics, and personal battles with illness, Unilab and Mercury Drug stood by their promise, which is to care and to protect.

The brands’ core messages of "Alaga" and "Malasakit" continue to reflect their genuine mission—not just to sell medicine, but to deliver care. These are values rooted in Filipino culture and strengthened by time.

A Legacy Built with the People

The event also highlighted the role of Alagang Unilab Rewards and Mercury Drug Suki Card—loyalty programs that reward patrons not just with points, but with a sense of belonging. These initiatives are expressions of gratitude to the customers who have been part of their journey.

From grandparents who recall the early days of the Mercury Drug store, to Gen Z fans dancing to BINI’s latest hits, each person in the coliseum had their own story to tell. And through it all, Unilab and Mercury Drug were there: familiar, reliable, and trusted.

Looking Forward

As the lights dimmed and the final confetti fell, one thing was clear: this celebration was not just about the past, it was a promise for the future.

With every “ingat po” from the pharmacy counter and every tablet that brings relief, Unilab and Mercury Drug continue their mission. And as they look forward to the next chapters, their promise remains rooted in two words that Filipinos hold dear, Alaga and Malasakit.

Eighty years on, the bond remains strong. Because in every Filipino home, there is always space for care, compassion, and trusted partners, just like Unilab and Mercury Drug.

And that, truly, is the heart of being Alagang Suki.

2025/07/31

updates

HONOR 400 Pro 5G Powers In on August 2 at the GMA Gala 2025

Marco Polo Demo 7/31/2025 11:59:00 PM

Leading global technology brand HONOR Philippines officially announced the arrival of the highly anticipated HONOR 400 Pro 5G in the Philippines. Mark your calendars as this smartphone with 200MP AI Camera is set to be launched on August 2, the same time as the GMA Gala 2025.

“We owe the success of the HONOR 400 5G to our HONOR fans, without a doubt, and with that, we are introducing the HONOR 400 Pro 5G. They asked for it and their wish is our command. Coming this August 2, HONOR fans and tech enthusiasts should definitely watch out for #YourAIPhone with 200MP AI Camera,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. “For two years straight now, we have partnered with GMA for its annual gala to really bring out the camera capabilities of our midrange heroes. We are excited to share this feat with them,” Cheng continued.

What do we know about HONOR 400 Pro 5G So Far

Addition to the exceptional AI photography experience and outstanding durability of the standard version, the HONOR 400 Pro 5G includes a 50MP Telephoto Camera with a Sony IMX856 sensor, 3x optical zoom, and OIS, ensuring detailed zoom shots. It is equipped with the AI Enhanced Portrait feature and delivers ultra-high-definition Portraits that ensure the true colors of every subject shine through.

2025/07/30

VMA 2025

HONOR 400 Pro 5G Steals the Spotlight at VMA 2025, Cup of Joe Hailed as the AI Portrait Masters

Marco Polo Demo 7/30/2025 11:29:00 PM

Leading global technology brand HONOR Philippines just announced the arrival of its HONOR 400 Pro 5G on August 2 which will boast a 200MP Super Sensing AI Camera System. In partnership with The New Hue for its Video Music Awards 2025, the said smartphone’s camera capabilities were put to a test.

“As an institution that champions top-of-the-line technology, we also recognize local talents. This partnership with The New Hue reflects our commitment in supporting music scene in the country together with our upcoming smartphone HONOR 400 5G,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

HONOR 400 Pro 5G champions OPM

On July 27, The New Hue recognized mainstream and up-and-coming OPM talents with awards such as Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Group Artist of the Year, among others. Famous OPM talents such as Cup of Joe, Maki, Amiel Sol, Philia, Hev Abi, Janine Teñoso are present at the event.

200MP Super Sensing AI Camera System

The HONOR 400 Pro 5G includes a 50MP Telephoto Camera with a Sony IMX856 sensor, 3x optical zoom, and OIS, ensuring detailed zoom shots. It is equipped with the AI Enhanced Portrait feature and delivers ultra-high-definition Portraits that ensure the true colors of every subject shine through. With its enhanced AI Super Zoom feature, the HONOR 400 Pro boasts an AIGC-powered telephoto capability of up to 50x, making it perfect for capturing distant subjects.

updates

Timeless: A Filipiniana Bridal Exhibit at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby

Toto 7/30/2025 11:21:00 PM

The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines (DCP), presents Timeless, an exhibit of modern Filipiniana bridal gowns, on display at the hotel’s iconic Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025.

Celebrating the elegance of the Filipino love story, Timeless brings together nine esteemed designers from DCP: Edwin Uy, Rafael Gonzales, Bepz Torres, Joy Aaliwin, Laura Santos, Alistair Balane, Ganda Anore, Will Salvador, and Johnny Abad. Each designer offers a unique interpretation of the traditional Filipiniana silhouette, reimagined with contemporary sophistication. From voluminous ruffles and intricate beadwork to modern necklines and romantic lace, the exhibit highlights the evolving artistry of Filipino bridal fashion.

“This is the first time The Manila Hotel and Designers Circle Philippines have partnered in an all-Filipiniana bridal exhibit. The collection honors heritage while embracing innovation, reflecting the same values that The Manila Hotel upholds. As the Grand Dame of the Philippines, we continue to champion Filipino artistry and cultural pride while adapting to the tastes of the modern generation,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Set beneath the chandeliers and arches of the historic Grand Lobby, Timeless invites brides-to-be, fashion enthusiasts, and culture lovers to witness the craftsmanship of modern Filipino design.

Timeless is on display at the Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025. Admission is free.

2025/07/29

updates

JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith React to Their Acting Debut in iWant's “Ghosting”

Toto 7/29/2025 07:26:00 PM

For first-time actors JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith, stepping into their roles in the iWant Originals series Ghosting felt like stepping into another world—literally and emotionally.

Fresh off their Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 stint, the two now find themselves as the lead pair in a romantic supernatural series that blurs the lines between life, death, and love. But for JM and Fyang, the real challenge wasn’t just acting as a restless spirit or a heartbroken girl trying to heal—it was watching themselves not as JM and Fyang, but as Wilberto and Jaja.

“It’s different when you're just being yourself on reality TV,” JM shared with a nervous laugh during a behind-the-scenes interview. “But when I watched myself in the series for the first time, ang dami kong napansin. Am I moving my hands too much? Am I saying this right? Nakakahiya.”

Fyang echoed the feeling. “There were moments I had to look away from the screen! Sobrang conscious ako. Pero at the same time, I was proud. We did it. We really acted.”

This raw honesty adds another layer of charm to Ghosting, a series that doesn't just tell a story about moving on from love and life—it’s also about stepping into the unknown, much like JM and Fyang are doing with their acting careers.

More Than Just One Kind of Ghosting

The series takes its name from two meanings of the word "ghosting"—the popular millennial term for being suddenly ignored or left without closure, and the literal sense of encountering ghosts.

In the story, Fyang’s character, Jaja, escapes to her lola’s quiet provincial home after being ghosted by a guy she cared about. But instead of finding peace, she meets Wilberto (played by JM), a charming—but very much dead—local. What follows is a strange, slow-burn romance between the living and the spirit world.

But if you ask the cast, some scenes hit a little too close to reality.

A Fresh Start in a New Light

While the supernatural elements hook the audience in, it's the emotional honesty that grounds Ghosting. Directed by romcom veteran Ted Boborol (Vince & Kath & James, Finally Found Someone), the series delicately weaves grief, love, and letting go into eight binge-worthy episodes.

And at the center of it all are JM and Fyang, navigating unfamiliar territory both as actors and as onscreen lovers—awkward, uncertain, and completely relatable.

They may be haunted by nerves now, but their chemistry is anything but lifeless.

Catch the Premiere

Ghosting streams exclusively on the newly revamped iWant starting Saturday, July 19 at 8PM (PHT). Catch JM and Fyang's hauntingly awkward but heartfelt acting debut—and maybe discover that ghost stories, like love, aren’t always what they seem.

Unlock iWant Originals for just ₱35 per month. Stream the feels, the frights, and the firsts—only on iWant.

2025/07/27

updates

Easy Brand Food and Beverage Fair 2025 Draws Thousands to SMX Manila

Marco Polo Demo 7/27/2025 09:02:00 PM

The third annual Easy Brand Food and Beverage Fair opened its doors this morning at the SMX Convention Center Manila, bringing together over 8,000 food entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry partners for a day of innovation, training, and culinary excitement.

Organized by Top Chefs Food Supplies Inc., the 2025 fair is held at Function Rooms 1 and 2 and offers free admission to all attendees. The event aims to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by showcasing cost-effective, high-quality food and beverage solutions tailored for fast-paced kitchens and small business setups.

“Kaya tayo may ganitong event is gusto ko talagang i-showcase and ma-highlight ang lahat ng products [This event is all about showcasing our products],” said Mark Wang, Founder and President of Easy Brand. “With easy, di kelangan mahal para maging quality [With Easy, you can deliver quality without breaking the bank],” he added.

Unlike traditional trade fairs, the Easy Brand event features interactive experiences and hands-on training sessions. Attendees can take part in workshops on how to craft milk teas, frappes, soft-serve ice cream, and chicken wings — all using Easy Brand’s ready-to-use ingredients.

This year’s featured product innovations include:

Easy Whipmate, a non-dairy cream for whipping and baking
Easy Signature Coffee Beans, with blends from Atok, Tublay, and a 50/50 House mix
Easy Signature Yuzu Flavored Syrup
Easy Signature Coffee Jelly
EasyPro Cheese Sauce

Celebrity guest Matteo Guidicelli, a food enthusiast and entrepreneur, headlined the event alongside culinary icon Chef Boy Logro and other brand Chefs Zhe Jacinto, CJ Dy, and Bam Piencenaves.

“What's inspiring is that Easy Brand is a local Filipino brand… very easy, very good quality , [Easy Brand is proudly local... very easy, very good quality],” said Guidicelli. “What matters is partnering with trusted suppliers, and Easy Brand is just that,” he added.

“You can do what you love as long as you have Easy Pro,” added Chef Logro. “You’ll never go wrong in business.”

A major draw for participants are the live competitions including:

Easy Culinary Cup
Spirited Conversations: Beverage Competition
Sparkle and Shine Cake Creation Contest Season 5
Espresso Yourself
Whipmate to Perfection: The Battle Begins Now

The fair also features talks from guest experts on food trends, sustainability, and strategies to help small businesses grow smarter and faster.

Originally launched in 2023, the Easy Brand Food and Beverage Fair has grown into a major annual event that connects MSMEs with practical tools and trusted ingredients for success. This year’s Manila edition is just the beginning, organizers announced plans to bring the fair to Cebu next year.

Admission is free, but early registration is recommended due to limited slots. For updates and to register, visit https://www.facebook.com/EasyBrandPH.

2025/07/26

Work

What to Do If Work Suspension Last for 3 Days: Stay Safe, Stay Cozy, and Help Others

Toto 7/26/2025 03:10:00 PM

With heavy rains and floods, many companies and agencies prompted to suspension of work, many of us are forced to stay indoors. While the weather outside may be gloomy, there are still plenty of ways to stay safe, comfortable, productive—and even helpful—while at home.

Here’s a simple and easy-to-follow list of things you can do without stepping outside. We’ve grouped them from personal comfort and bonding to doing your part to help those affected by the storm.

1. Binge-Watch Your Favorite Movies and Teleseryes

Take this time to relax and catch up on series or films you've missed. Streaming platforms are full of feel-good shows or drama-packed teleseryes to keep you entertained.

Suggested movies and series to watch:

Miss Granny (Pinoy version) – for family laughs and touching moments
The Rain (Netflix) – fitting for the weather, with a survival twist
Reply 1988 – a warm Korean drama perfect for bonding
The Glory – if you’re in the mood for intense storytelling
The Broken Marriage Vow – for teleserye lovers

2. Go on a Mini Food Trip Inside Your Fridge

No need to head out, just explore what’s inside your refrigerator or pantry. Try to whip up something fun or new with what’s already available. Get creative with leftover dishes or invent your own rainy-day snacks.

3. Snuggle and Cuddle Time

Cold weather? Perfect excuse to cuddle. Whether it’s with your partner, kids, or even your fur babies, now’s the time to slow down and enjoy these quiet, cozy moments. A warm blanket, a warm drink, and a warm hug can go a long way.

4. Play Indoor Games with Your Family

Bond over classic board games, card games, or even charades. You don’t need fancy equipment—just bring out the laughter and fun. It’s a great way to pass the time and strengthen family ties.

5. Organize and Clean Your Space

Now that you’re homebound, why not do a little decluttering? Rearrange your room, tidy up your shelves, or sort out your closet. A cleaner space can lift your mood during dreary days.

6. Read a Book or Listen to a Podcast

Grab a book you’ve been putting off or listen to podcasts that inspire, entertain, or inform. This is a great chance to rest your eyes from screens and slow things down.

7. Reflect and Pray for Others’ Safety

Spare a moment for those who are experiencing the worst of the storm—those displaced, affected by floods, or without electricity. A short prayer goes a long way in showing compassion and hope.

8. Do Online Fundraising for Affected Communities

Use your social media platform for good. Set up a simple fundraising drive or online campaign for those in need. Many people want to help but don’t know where to start—be the spark.

9. Donate to Legitimate Organizations Online

There are many trusted groups running relief operations. Check their official websites or pages for GCash, bank transfer, or online donation portals. Every little amount helps.

Here are some of the organizations:

Philippine Red Cross
ABS-CBN Foundation
Kapuso Foundation
Caritas Manila

10. Encourage Others to Join You in Helping

Share stories of people helping. Invite your friends and followers to take part in any fundraising drive. A simple post can inspire others to donate, volunteer, or even just be aware.

While staying safe indoors is a priority during these rainy days, don’t forget to make the most of it—whether it’s reconnecting with loved ones, doing small projects, or lending a hand to those in need. Even without going outside, you can make your day count.

Stay safe, stay dry, and stay kind.

2025/07/25

WWF

Hulk Hogan: The Hero Who Shaped a Childhood Generation

Toto 7/25/2025 07:52:00 AM

On July 24, 2025, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan passed away at age 71. But for millions of children who grew up in the 1980s and ’90s, he was far more than a champion, he was a hero who shaped their childhoods.

In his red-and-yellow outfit, handlebar mustache and bandanna, Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler. He was “The Hulkster,” a symbol of strength, optimism and good overcoming evil. Every time he raised his arms, flexed his muscles and prepared for that signature leg drop, kids across not only in America but the whole world, echoed his words: “Say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and believe in yourself”.

From Living Rooms to Backyards

Saturday mornings meant gathering in living rooms to watch “Rock ’n’ Wrestling” cartoons, and Sunday afternoons were for WWF Superstars. On playgrounds and backyards, kids reenacted the Hulkster’s dramatic poses and moves. One recalled trying the leg drop and leg-wrapped body slam, playing for hours until dinnertime drew them in.

Hogan gave children a hero they could emulate, someone who always seemed to win. “Hulkamania was more than entertainment; it was a promise of excitement and hope,” wrote a fan nostalgic for the era.

Nickelodeon’s Rare Moment

In 1991, Hogan appeared on Nickelodeon’s “Stories from Growing Up,” sharing his childhood struggles with weight and confidence. The special offered a glimpse behind the persona: a young boy learning to overcome challenges, to transform himself, just as he encouraged his young fans to do.

A Cultural Phenomenon

Hogan’s influence reached far beyond wrestling. He starred as Thunderlips in Rocky III and led an exercise tape and toy workout kit that inspired kids to get moving.

The Real American Hero

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis described Hogan as “a superhero to a generation,” recalling how children in Tampa Bay saw him as a local icon, a man they felt they knew. Fans on social media echoed the sentiment: “To kids of the ’80s and ’90s, Hulk Hogan was a real‑life superhero”.

Enduring Echoes

Even years later, adults remember the surge of energy at the mention of Hogan’s catchphrases. One teacher shared a cherished memory of a 6-year-old who mimicked Hogan, “Ocelot859” on Reddit said the child’s “moxy and charisma” reminded them of the power of unfiltered childhood joy.

Today, those childhood memories remain vivid. Parents who once donned blond wigs and bandannas as childhood fans now share videos of their own children imitating his drills, proof that Hogan’s influence spans generations.

A Hero’s Lasting Legacy

Hogan’s passing leaves a void in the wrestling world. But for legions of fans, now parents themselves, his spirit endures in their homes and hearts. The memories he created were simple but profound: a strong hero, a clear message, and boundless childhood imagination.

In a world of changing heroes, Hulk Hogan remains timeless. His life reflected the power of storytelling and the magic of belief. And for many, that made growing up a little brighter, a bit stronger, and full of Hulkamania.

2025/07/24

updates

HONOR Hints at 400 Pro 5G Launch in PH With 200MP AI Camera

Toto 7/24/2025 10:54:00 PM

HONOR Philippines may be gearing up to launch the HONOR 400 Pro 5G, following the success of its HONOR 400 5G model. The company recently shared a teaser that has sparked speculation among fans.

In a social media post, HONOR revealed a promotional image featuring brand ambassadors Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia alongside what appears to be a new device.

“You should know by now that we love surprising and treating our HONOR fans. They asked for it, and now, we are giving it to them. We are very excited for the coming days so stay tuned,” said Stephen Cheng, vice president of HONOR Philippines.

The teaser has raised expectations that the Pro version of the popular HONOR 400 series could soon be available in the Philippines.

For the latest news and updates, visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media pages: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). A full list of retail stores is available at https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

2025/07/22

updates

Caught Cheating on Camera? What Every Leader Can Learn from the CEO Kiss Scandal

Marco Polo Demo 7/22/2025 11:03:00 PM

When the Kiss Cam Turns Crisis: Lessons from Astronomer CEO’s Scandal

In an age where reputations can rise and fall with the click of a camera, a moment on the jumbotron turned into a cautionary tale for tech leaders everywhere.

Andy Byron, CEO of Astronomer, a U.S.-based data orchestration company, found himself at the center of a viral scandal after being caught on a kiss cam at a Coldplay concert, embracing a woman who was not his wife. The video made its rounds online, sparking speculation, criticism, and ultimately, Byron’s quiet resignation.

While the details remain largely unconfirmed by Byron himself, the fallout offers more than tabloid fodder. It delivers a series of real-world lessons for CEOs, public figures, and professionals in a digital-first world.

1. You Are Always on Camera, Even When You Think You’re Not

Whether it’s a corporate event, a concert, or a coffee run, today’s leaders walk through life under a lens. The Coldplay kiss cam wasn’t surveillance, it was entertainment. But in seconds, it became an unexpected public relations disaster.

Lesson: If you're in a position of visibility, assume you are always being seen. Transparency isn’t just a virtue, it’s survival.

2. Personal Conduct Reflects Company Values

Byron’s moment wasn’t about the software he sold or the deals he signed. It was about trust. In tech, where data and reliability go hand in hand, perceived personal dishonesty can spill over into public distrust of your leadership and brand.

Lesson: For CEOs and founders, the line between personal and professional image is almost invisible. Stakeholders expect integrity beyond the boardroom.

3. Crisis Moves Faster Than the Facts

The speed of social media is relentless. Within hours of the video going viral, rumors flooded forums, news headlines, and LinkedIn feeds. Byron stepped down quietly, without issuing a detailed public explanation. But by then, public opinion had already shifted.

Lesson: In crisis PR, silence can be interpreted as guilt. Even a short, factual statement can help regain control of the narrative. Delay only lets speculation grow.

4. There’s No Such Thing as “Off the Clock” Anymore

Once upon a time, what happened on weekends stayed there. Not anymore. Today, a CEO at a concert becomes a story not because of where he is, but who he is.

Lesson: Leadership isn’t a 9-to-5 responsibility. For better or worse, reputation is a 24/7 job.

5. Culture Is Watching, and Responding

The backlash wasn’t limited to gossip. For many, it was about accountability. Viewers online drew attention to workplace ethics, the power imbalance in leadership, and the broader cultural issue of infidelity and power dynamics.

Lesson: Modern audiences, especially employees and consumers—value authenticity and ethical leadership. Cultural misalignment can hurt morale, recruitment, and brand trust.

6. When Trust Is Lost, It’s Hard to Rebuild

Byron’s resignation may have spared Astronomer a prolonged PR war, but trust lost is not easily regained. The company’s leadership must now refocus on its mission and rebuild its credibility, internally and externally.

Lesson: Crisis can force change, but rebuilding requires transparency, consistent behavior, and often, new leadership.

A Kiss, A Camera, and a Cautionary Tale

The Astronomer CEO scandal wasn’t just a gossip headline, it was a case study in modern leadership, crisis communication, and digital-era vulnerability.

In the end, it wasn’t about infidelity alone, it was about how one moment of poor judgment, caught on camera, could shake the foundation of a growing tech brand. And for professionals in any industry, the real takeaway is simple: personal integrity is public capital. Guard it well.

Why This Pinoy “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” Feels Closer to Home

Marco Polo Demo 7/22/2025 07:08:00 PM

A Familiar Story, Told the Filipino Way: Inside the Local Adaptation of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

When a beloved Korean drama lands in the Philippines, it comes with big expectations, and even bigger emotions. But in the Philippine adaptation of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, viewers are getting more than just a retelling. They’re getting a story reshaped with Filipino soul,one that hits closer to home, both in heart and in truth.

Premiered yesterday, July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5, that is while everyone is busy clearing water and carrying their belongings on higher grounds because of the flood. It was also early streamed on Netflix (July 18) and iWant (July 19). This highly anticipated teleserye is led by powerhouse stars Anne Curtis, Joshua Garcia, and Carlo Aquino. But beyond the casting, this reimagining stands out for one reason: it was built with the Filipino viewer in mind, every step of the way.

More Than a Remake: A Cultural Rebirth

Director Mae Cruz-Alviar and the creative team behind the show didn’t simply copy the Korean original, they transformed it. The story’s core remained: a guarded caregiver named Patpat (played by Joshua Garcia), his brother Matmat (Carlo Aquino), who lives with autism, and a successful yet emotionally scarred children’s book author Mia (Anne Curtis). Together, they wrestle with the ghosts of their past, uncovering old wounds and learning how to heal.

But this version unfolds with a uniquely Pinoy flavor. From the characters’ personalities to the backdrop of familiar landscapes, every detail was chosen to reflect how Filipinos experience pain, connection, and healing.

Instead of cherry blossoms and Korean winters, we see lush local scenery and sunlit countrysides. Filipino homes replace glass-walled hospitals. And yes, even the language shifts the tone. Where the Korean version may have leaned into restraint, the Filipino version isn’t afraid to show vulnerability, the kind that comes out during family dinners, late-night confessions, or quiet moments of prayer.

Scenes Rewritten for the Filipino Heart

Some of the Korean drama’s iconic scenes were respectfully adapted, or entirely reimagined, to match the Philippine setting and emotional rhythm. Supporting characters were restructured to reflect Filipino family dynamics, while scenes around mental health were softened and localized to better match the nation’s current awareness and openness.

“Kailangan namin i-handle na ‘wag biglaan ‘yung audience, na ‘wag sila ma-overwhelm,” said Director Cruz-Alviar. “So there is careful handling in telling the story but also staying true to the core of the show.”

Mental health isn’t an easy topic in any culture, but in the Philippines, where stigma and silence still surround conditions like depression and autism, telling this story required deep sensitivity and care. The production team partnered with advocates, therapists, and even visited special schools to portray the characters truthfully and respectfully.

A Personal Story for the Actors, Too

For Joshua Garcia, the role of Patpat hit close to home. “Nakaka-relate ako sa kanya kasi parehas kaming mapagmahal na kapatid at nangungulila sa nanay,” he shared. “Pati ‘yung pagka-burned out ng character ko, naramdaman ko rin.”

Meanwhile, Carlo Aquino underwent immersion sessions and intensive workshops to authentically portray Matmat, a person on the autism spectrum. The result? A performance that’s grounded, moving, and rooted in real-life experiences.

Anne Curtis, returning to teleseryes after years, gives life to Mia Hernandez, a role she describes as complex but ultimately healing. “It’s a healing story and it’s a beautiful journey of love,” Anne said. “Every Filipino… will be able to relate to the story of healing, pain, and love.”

An Advocacy, Not Just a Show

Beyond being a primetime teleserye, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay serves a bigger purpose. It’s an advocacy to understand and destigmatize depression, trauma, and the struggles of individuals with special needs.

At a time when many still whisper about mental health, this show speaks boldly, yet gently. It reminds viewers that it’s okay to feel broken. It’s okay to seek help. And it’s okay to not be okay.

And in true Filipino fashion, the story doesn’t end in sorrow, it ends in connection, healing, and hope.

Star-Studded Support Cast

The series also brings together a strong ensemble cast that includes Rio Locsin, Bobot Mortiz, Michael De Mesa, Maricel Laxa, Agot Isidro, Enchong Dee, Kaori Oinuma, Bodjie Pascua, Ana Abad Santos, Sharmaine Suarez, Xyriel Manabat, Louise Abuel, Francis Magundayao, Alora Sasam, Alyssa Muhlach, Bianca De Vera, Aljon Mendoza, and Mark Oblea.

With direction by Mae Cruz-Alviar and Raymond Ocampo, and creative leadership from Henry Quitain and Star Creatives’ Des M. De Guzman, the show is backed by a team that knows how to tell a powerful story with heart.

Watch and Feel the Difference

Catch It’s Okay to Not Be Okay starting July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5 at 8:45 PM.

This isn’t just a remake, it’s a mirror for Filipino viewers, showing that healing is possible, love is powerful, and no one has to go through pain alone.

2025/07/16

Youngest Filipino Male to Summit Mount Everest Returns Home with Century Tuna's Support

Marco Polo Demo 7/16/2025 11:12:00 PM

Filipino mountaineer and entrepreneur Jeno Panganiban has returned to the country after etching his name into history as the youngest male Filipino to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world at 8,849 meters above sea level.

Jeno’s successful ascent is more than just a personal victory, it is a story of transformation, perseverance, and national pride. Powered by grit and proper nutrition from his official partner Century Tuna, Jeno’s feat marks a significant milestone nearly two decades after the first Filipino reached Everest’s summit.

Carrying the Nation to the Top of the World

“When we were approaching the summit, I felt proud and emotional,” Panganiban recalled. “We knew the whole country was watching. And when I raised the Philippine flag at the top of the world, I knew this journey wasn’t just mine, it was for every Filipino who dares to dream.”

For Jeno, the moment wasn’t only about the view or the victory. It was about carrying a nation’s hopes, strength, and resilience to one of the most unforgiving places on Earth.

From Office Cubicle to Everest Peak

Before becoming a national pride, Panganiban lived a quiet life as a software engineer, working a 9-to-5 job. But his dreams stretched far beyond fluorescent lights and keyboards. He eventually built his own business distributing healthy produce to restaurants, allowing him the flexibility to train and pursue mountaineering full-time.

Climbing Everest was not a spur-of-the-moment decision, it was a goal years in the making. “I had to give up a lot,” he said. “But chasing the summit meant becoming someone new, someone stronger.”

Training with Tuna: Fueling the Climb

Jeno’s Everest quest was partnered by Century Tuna, a brand he credits for fueling his training and recovery. His go-to snack? Century Tuna Hot and Spicy with saltine crackers—simple, protein-packed, and a small comfort during grueling training days and extreme climbs.

“You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable,” he said. “That’s how we trained every day. We made sure our bodies and minds were ready for the push.”

The "Fit for Any Role" campaign by Century Tuna aligned perfectly with Jeno’s journey, highlighting how physical fitness, mental toughness, and proper nutrition empower individuals to take on life’s biggest challenges.

Surviving Everest’s Wrath

The road to the summit was far from smooth. Panganiban and his team braved freezing temperatures, shifting glaciers like the Khumbu Icefall, unpredictable avalanches, and dangerously low oxygen levels.

“There were moments I questioned everything,” Jeno admitted. “But I reminded myself why I was there. You don’t conquer the mountain—you conquer yourself.”

At the summit, with the Earth stretched out below him and the Philippine flag in hand, the months of training, sacrifice, and near-death risks felt worth it.

Century Tuna Celebrates a Living Testament of Strength Century Pacific Food, Inc. Executive Vice President and COO Greg Banzon lauded Jeno’s achievement, calling him a true symbol of what it means to be fit for any role.

“Jeno is living proof that through dedication, proper nutrition, and strength of will, anyone can reach their own summit,” Banzon said. “He is an inspiration—not just to athletes—but to all Filipinos navigating their own life challenges.”

Inspiring a Nation

Jeno Panganiban’s Everest climb is more than a record-breaking moment. It is a reminder that Filipinos—no matter how young or unassuming, can rise above limits. With courage in the heart and proper fuel in the body, no summit is too high.

“I want people to realize,” Jeno said, “that their summit may not look like Everest. It could be graduating school, starting a business, or overcoming something personal. But whatever it is, you can do it—with focus, belief, and the right preparation.”