On June 28, a remarkable event took place deep within the lush forests of Mt. Anobang-Lobi in Brgy. Kagbana, Burauen, Leyte in partnership of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF). Two critically endangered Philippine Eagles, Carlito and Uswag, were released back into their natural habitat, symbolizing a significant step towards the conservation of this majestic species.

Our journey to witness this historic release was both challenging and exhilarating. Brgy. Kagbana, one of the most remote communities in Leyte, has been home to the Mamanwa Tribe since the 1980s. It is a place where time seems to stand still, and nature thrives unspoiled.

When was the last time you paused to celebrate your achievements? In the hustle of daily life, it's easy to miss the moments that shape our journey. Celebrating milestones helps us recognize that it's never too late to reach for greatness. Photography is a wonderful way to honor these victories. With Great Image, you can capture your accomplishments, preserving them as a lasting reminder of your journey and potential.

Reflecting the past triumphs

Each picture is a solid reminder of the challenges we've conquered and the victories we've celebrated. Think about your school years, from kindergarten to college. Every graduation photo tells a story of your struggles and successes. Even if you had to pause your education to work, that graduation photo, when you finally achieved your degree, symbolizes your grit and determination. It proves that it's never too late to reach your goals.

Capturing new beginnings

As we navigate life's ever-changing landscape, photography becomes a beacon of hope and renewal. It allows us to capture the excitement and optimism of new beginnings, whether starting a new career or pursuing a long-held passion. Even the simplest photographs, like your first ID picture for job applications, symbolize a fresh chapter as you transition into adulthood. Each photo affirms your readiness to embrace change and strive for greatness.

Immortalizing milestones

We all reach new heights at our own pace, and these milestones deserve to be celebrated. Photography lets us capture these special times forever. Think about the couples who finally take their wedding photos after years of being together or those who welcome a baby after trying for so long. These photos prove their patience and commitment, inspiring others to pursue their dreams, wherever they are in life.

Honoring personal growth

Looking back at ourselves can be a powerful tool for growth. Photography offers a unique way to see our journey of self-discovery. By capturing moments of reflection and self-acceptance, we celebrate how far we've come and the challenges we've conquered. For example, someone who has struggled with self-confidence might finally feel comfortable getting a professional portrait taken. This portrait becomes a symbol of their newfound acceptance and inner strength.

A wonderful Father’s Day awaits every kind of dad! Show your appreciation for your multitasking superdad, nostalgic fur-dad, or caring plant-dad with the perfect Galaxy gift. Check out these amazing deals on Galaxy devices this June that will make him grin with pride. Epic surprises for the hard working dads Every hardworking dad needs a companion to lighten the load of a busy day. Let them experience the epic power of AI in the Galaxy S series to increase productivity with Call and Text Assist and Live Interpreter functions for seamless office calls, or with the Google Circle to Search feature to easily plan your next family vacation.

If you buy a Galaxy S24 Ultra for your dad until June 30, 2024, he can also enjoy a FREE Galaxy Watch5 Pro and keep track of his health. Epic discounts up to P25,000 also await if you choose from the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Flip4 or ZFold 4. Additional FREE gifts also come when you purchase this month: Galaxy Buds2 Pro when you buy a Galaxy Z Flip5 or Z Fold5, or a Galaxy Buds FE for every purchase of the Galaxy S23 FE.

Improve their work set up with the Galaxy Tab S9 series. With the DeX Mode they can use their tablet like a desktop and get work done anywhere whether at home, at the office, or waiting in the car to pick up the kids from school. Cop the Galaxy Tab S9 series and enjoy a FREE Keyboard Cover. If you prefer the Galaxy Tab S9 FE, you’ll also get a free Smart Keyboard plus P2,000 discount.

For a more affordable tablet option, you can also consider the Galaxy Tab A9 series - get tf for as much as P2,000 off this Father’s Day. There’s also a new kid-friendly option to help dads and their kids get some fun bonding time - the Galaxy Tab A9+ Wifi Kids Edition, the perfect edutainment buddy for kids.

The Galaxy Tab A9+ Wifi Kids Edition has an expansive display perfect for watching videos and for exploring kid-friendly games through the Samsung Kids app, while still allowing dad to get maximized productivity with DeX Mode. It even comes complete with a puffy case to better protect the tablet, a crayon stylus, stickers for personalization, and a travel adaptor.

TOYCON PH, the premier event for toy and collectible enthusiasts in the Philippines, marks its 21st year, celebrating the evolving world of toys and creative play. The convention continues to attract fans, collectors, creators, and industry professionals, serving as a hub for all ages to explore the past, present, and future of playthings. This annual event underscores its status as a key destination in Asia for toy aficionados.

Event Overview
Date: June 14-16, 2024
Location: SMX CONVENTION CENTER MANILA
TOYCON PH 2024 is set to transform the SMX Convention Center Manila into a vibrant playground for toy aficionados. The convention will feature an extensive range of exhibits and activities, including exclusive toy product reveals, performances from international Pop idols, panel discussions with toy industry experts and celebrity collectors, toy designing workshops, interactive gaming and tabletop tournaments, cosplay, comics and a bustling marketplace for rare and exclusive collectibles.

Event Highlights
●Be a part of the exciting launch of two new toy brands from MNDSTYL and the creator of Funko Pop
●Catch the launch of an exciting new Quiccs release of TEQ 63 and Jollibee
●Take your pick of exciting toy exclusives from Solid Toys, RLux Custom, Armored Komodo, Devil Toys, Omo Collectibles and more than 50 other Designer toy artists
●Enjoy new finds and releases from big toy brands like Hot Toys, Jada, Bandai, PopMart, Funko, Toy City, and so much more!
●Catch the celebration of GMA Network’s 74th anniversary with surprise GMA celebrity appearances!
●View the very first reveal of the 20-foot Voltes V Legacy display of Telesuccess Productions!
●Funko Funatics Philippines launching the Funko Exclusive Tee and the Freddy Funko exclusive for TOYCON MNDSTYL FANX 2024 at their booth "Freddy's Sari Sari Store!"
●Enjoy performances from International Performers - Bugvel, Chicken Blow The Idol, Kuroguro, and Tenohira El, Voice Actress/Idol - Ai Negeshi, local idols, Pastel Mix and Day Night Explorers and many more surprise international guests!
●MNDSTYL FANX presents JPOP Singer-songwriter krage and KPOP boy group n.SSign for their 1st time live performance here in the Philippines!
●Special musical performance by P-POP Sensation G22, the Female Alphas, and beloved OPM band I Belong to the Zoo courtesy of CaliCo Toys.
●Be part of the Mana Underground Table-top Tournaments: Battlegrounds
●Catch the special displays and special spotlight presentations from upcoming movies, "Alien vs Predator: Romulus," "A Quiet Place: Day One," "Deadpool and Wolverine," "Friendly Fire," Horizon: An American Saga," "Inside Out 2," and "Transformers One."
●Enjoy all the spectacle of costume play performances with TOYCON’s Cosplay KO Competition
●Meet and greet our talented Filipino anime voice actors at the Calico Booth featuring: Nica Rojo, Elle Genovata, Alain Alfred and Blair Arellano.
●Catch the awarding of the Pinoy Pop Culture Icon for 2024. It will be awesome!
●Be a part of more than 100 toy collector groups of the Philippine Toy Groups Association with their collections exhibited at the TOYCON Gallery
●Enjoy the Creators and Artisan Alley and Comic Zone with celebrity graphic artists, authors, crafts people and inventors!
●Get your first lightsaber from Saber Source with a special collab with TOYCON, launching the exclusive and limited edition "Kawayan" light saber.
One of the main attractions at TOYCON Evolution is the unveiling of new toy lines and limited-edition collectibles. Major toy manufacturers and independent creators alike will showcase their latest innovations, offering attendees the first look at the toys that will shape the market in the coming year. This includes everything from action figures and designer toys to high-tech gadgets and educational toys.

From watching your favorite games to powering up for a healthy lifestyle, make life memorable and much easier with Samsung appliances and Galaxy devices powered by Galaxy AI. Samsung is offering amazing customizable bundle deals through its #YouMake exclusive offers! Get up to 50% off on Samsung Galaxy devices and best-selling Samsung TVs, home appliances and monitors until June 10, 2024.

With Samsung devices in your hands and appliances your homes, #YouMake winning in life easier for everyone!

#YouMake living life easy with Galaxy AI

Being a superfan and getting the latest news on your idols is made super easy with Galaxy AI on the Galaxy S24 series. With the “Circle to Search” function, all you have to do is circle, highlight, write, or tap anything on the screen.

Looking for a bigger screen to use more apps simultaneously? Get work done even faster with the Galaxy Z Fold5, now with Galaxy AI features like Transcript Assist and Notes Assist. With a large 7.6-inch Main Screen, quick job-switching functionality, and a thinner S Pen Fold Edition that makes annotation simple, this multitasking powerhouse lets you complete your duties and watch games from anywhere.

Crowded entrance, a feel of elegance and refinement, the air was filled with anticipation and celebration as Ginebra San Miguel, the world’s largest-selling gin producer, hosted "The Art of Gin" event. This occasion was not only a nod to World Gin Day but also a tribute to Ginebra San Miguel’s remarkable 190-year journey in gin-making. Guests from all walks of life, including media personalities, bloggers, influencers, celebrities, and performers, gathered at Novotel Manila Araneta City to witness the unveiling of a new gem in the brand’s crown—the Ginebra San Miguel Archangel Reserve.

Brilliant Skin Essentials hosted a spectacular event at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan on June 2, 2024, marking several milestones in the company’s journey. The grand launch of their latest product, Hello Melo Drink, featured the popular actress Kim Chiu as the brand's newest endorser. This highly anticipated event also included significant contract signings with F&D and iFuel, showcasing the company's expanding reach across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The event kicked off with the contract signing with F&D, a momentous occasion symbolizing the strong partnerships that Brilliant Skin Essentials is building. Miss Glenda dela Cruz, the CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials, began the event with heartfelt remarks, highlighting the emotional significance of the day. “Nandito ‘yong Lola ko, ‘yong family ko. She’s (Miss Glenda’s Inang) the reason why kung bakit ako nandito, gusto kong ipakita sa kanya na lahat ng pinaghirapan mo, ito na ‘yong bunga ng marami ng nagmamahal sa apo mo, and ang dami pong nagmamahal sa Brilliant Skin— lalo na po kayo (F&D). Kaya sabi ko bibigyan ko ng magandang launching ang Hello Melo, ang ating bagong product,” she said.

The girl group, BINI, has brushed off allegations that their hit song "Salamin, Salamin" promotes witchcraft. This controversy erupted after a religious content creator claimed to have evidence that the song was linked to dark practices. However, BINI members were quick to dismiss these claims, clarifying the true, endearing nature of the song.

BINI Colet couldn’t help but laugh when she saw the post, mentioning that the group often encounters amusing interpretations of their music. "Actually, nakita ko po yung post na yun, nakakatawa po, pero mas meron pa po nakakatawang post bukod dun. Natatawa na lang po kami kasi may nabubuo na po silang kwento sa mga kanta namin," she said. (Actually, I saw that post; it's funny, but there are even more funny posts besides that. We laugh about it because they are creating a story in our songs.)

Meanwhile, BINI Maloi confidently labeled the claims as "fake news" and reiterated that "Salamin, Salamin" is simply a good song. "Fake news po. Hindi po witchcraft ang ‘Salamin, Salamin.’ Maganda lang po ‘yung song,” she affirmed. (It’s just fake news. ‘Salamin, Salamin’ doesn’t promote witchcraft. The song is just nice.)

The misunderstanding likely stems from the song’s use of the phrase "mirror, mirror on the wall," reminiscent of the evil queen’s line from the Snow White fairy tale. The phrase might evoke images of magic and witchcraft, but the lyrics of "Salamin, Salamin" are far from sinister. Instead, they tell a tale of a girl’s longing for her crush to notice her, wrapped in the relatable context of youthful infatuation and hope.

The song's lyrics express a common teenage experience: the uncertainty and excitement of a crush. Lines like "Mahiwagang salamin kailan ba niya aaminin, Kaniyang tunay na pagtingin" (Magic mirror, when will he admit his true feelings) capture the mix of hope and anxiety familiar to anyone who has ever had a crush.

Darren Espanto, the singer who stole hearts as a young contestant on "The Voice Kids Philippines," is set to celebrate a major milestone in his career. On June 1, Espanto will take the stage at the Araneta Coliseum for his highly anticipated "D10" concert, marking ten years of remarkable achievements in the music and entertainment industry.

Darren's journey began in 2014 when he wowed audiences with his powerful voice and captivating stage presence on "The Voice Kids Philippines," finishing as a runner-up under the mentorship of Sarah Geronimo. Since then, Darren has grown into one of Asia's most beloved pop artists, known for his wide vocal range and emotive performances.

The Ransom Collective’s Muri will soon release “Afternoon,” the first song from her debut EP, which is coming out this year.

The Filipino singer and violinist shared the release date and song title on her social media.

Muriel Gonzales said “Afternoon” is about her own experiences as a young woman dealing with work and life problems by herself, in a country far from home.

“I’ve been working on this song for quite a while,” she admits. “Without revealing too much about the creative and thought process behind Afternoon, I actually find it freeing to open up about being vulnerable and share a piece of myself through songwriting. Sometimes, expressing what you really feel helps you gain a deeper understanding of yourself as a person and as an artist. Making the entire track was both a journey and a reflection. I can’t wait to share it with the rest of the world.”

Currently based in London and Paris, Muri is working on her solo EP, with plans to perform her new material in Europe and Asia sometime this year.

Muri is best known for her work with indie folk collective The Ransom Collective as a violinist and singer. As a solo artist, she has earned a nomination for Wishclusive Contemporary R&B Performance of the Year at the prestigious Wish Awards and Favorite Female Artist at the 35th Awit Awards for her pre-debut 2022 single “Letters.” In the subsequent year, she collaborated with electronic producer LUSTBASS on a remix of "Thunder," which garnered a nomination for Best Remix Recording at the 36th Awit Awards, the Philippines' equivalent of the Grammys.

Filipino music superstar James Reid has once again captivated fans with his latest single, "Hurt Me Too," marking his debut project under Sony Music Entertainment. This emotional ballad delves deep into the theme of heartbreak, showcasing Reid's talent for combining raw emotion with compelling storytelling.

With a career spanning over a decade, James Reid has become a key figure in contemporary pop and R&B music in the Philippines. His chart-topping records, sold-out tours, and successful brand campaigns have made him a household name. But it’s his ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity that truly sets him apart.

In "Hurt Me Too," Reid presents a stripped-down ballad that hits hard emotionally. The song, produced by Tim Marquez, finds Reid at his most vulnerable, reflecting on past heartbreak with a mix of fondness and pain. "I wrote the song three years ago together with Seth Reger, an artist from LA," Reid shares. "He really helped me tap into these emotions that I didn’t even know I was feeling at that moment."

Reid's exploration of heartbreak in "Hurt Me Too" marks a significant shift in his musical direction. Known for hits like "Cool Down," "Turning Up," and "16B," Reid's previous work has often leaned towards upbeat, feel-good tracks. However, this new single introduces a more introspective side of the artist.

"For this next album I’m working on, I wanted to focus on the core of who I am as a songwriter with minimal but intentional music production," Reid explains. "Hurt Me Too is like a palate cleanser for me in a way that it introduces a change in sound and direction."

The heartfelt tune is complemented by a music video directed by Elena Virata, a close friend of Reid's. "The concept was simple but powerful, focusing on unreleased emotions and frustrations," he adds. The video’s simplicity allows the song's emotional depth to shine through, creating a poignant visual experience for listeners.

James Reid's music has always resonated with fans due to its authenticity and relatability. His ability to connect with listeners on a personal level is evident in his extensive catalog, which includes popular tracks like "Right There," "On Top," and "The Life." These songs, much like "Hurt Me Too," showcase his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with memorable melodies.

Reid's journey in the music industry began with his win on the reality show "Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Clash 2010." This victory catapulted him into the limelight, leading to a successful career in both music and acting. Over the years, Reid has continued to evolve as an artist, consistently pushing the boundaries of his craft.

Joining Sony Music Entertainment is a significant milestone for Reid, aligning him with other prominent Filipino artists such as SB19, Ben&Ben, and Clara Benin. This partnership is expected to further elevate Reid's career, providing him with new opportunities to reach a global audience.

Reflecting on his career, Reid expresses gratitude for the support he has received from fans and collaborators alike. "I’m grateful for the journey and the growth I’ve experienced over the years," he says. "Each song, each album is a part of my story, and I’m excited to share this new chapter with everyone."

As "Hurt Me Too" gains traction on digital music platforms worldwide, fans are eagerly anticipating Reid's upcoming album. This next phase promises to delve deeper into his personal experiences, offering listeners a more intimate glimpse into his life and emotions.

James Reid’s ability to convey profound emotions through his music is a testament to his talent as a singer and songwriter. "Hurt Me Too" is not just a song; it’s a reflection of his journey, his struggles, and his growth. It’s this authenticity that continues to endear him to fans, old and new.

Reid's work stands out for its enduring impact. His songs have the power to evoke memories, inspire reflection, and provide comfort. With "Hurt Me Too," James Reid reaffirms his place in the music industry, proving that true artistry lies in the ability to touch hearts and minds.

James Reid's "Hurt Me Too" is available now on all digital music platforms. As he continues to explore new themes and sounds, one thing remains certain: James Reid is an artist whose music will continue to resonate for years to come.

COMCO Middle East & Africa (COMCO MEA), the Dubai-headquartered communications agency of COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, has been recognized in Caterer Middle East’s F&B PR Power List 2024, an honor dedicated to celebrating the region's exceptional and influential PR firms that deliver compelling messages and exemplary results for their clients.

Founded in 2021, COMCO MEA is a part of the COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, an inter-regional powerhouse and award-winning communications group that started in Southeast Asia and is now rolling out to other regional centers of the world. In a span of two years, COMCO Middle East & Africa has remained committed to the group’s strategy based, content driven and channel agnostic way of doing PR and other related disciplines. Through COMCO’s unique brand of Meaningful Storytelling, they were able to build notable campaigns and move stakeholders to action.

Being recognized in the F&B Power List by Caterer Middle East is a testament to the company's excellence, and was made possible because of the efforts and expertise of COMCO MEA’s co-founder and managing director, Tricia Jimenea and Partner and Head of Hospitality Josimar Delfin. With Ms. Jimenea’s 20 years of experience in corporate, lifestyle, and entertainment and Ms. Delfin’s a decade and half years of experience as a hotelier and F&B strategist, the company has built an exciting list of clients within two years and has already completed over 125 campaigns across the region.

The summer just got hotter with Kathryn Bernardo joining Century Tuna as the new brand ambassador for the 2024 Superbods campaign. Known for her charm and fitness, Kathryn is the perfect fit to lead this year's "Best You Ever" campaign, which celebrates self-love and self-improvement.

Kathryn Bernardo, a top actress and fitness enthusiast, is the new face of Century Tuna Superbods 2024. The "Best You Ever" campaign encourages Filipinos to embrace their wellness journeys and become the best versions of themselves. With Kathryn leading the way, the campaign is set to inspire many to focus on personal growth and overall health.

“With Century Tuna, I’m embracing fitness and wellness like never before. I hope that the ‘Best You Ever’ campaign becomes an avenue for Filipinos to start or continue their journey to become the best version of themselves. We all start somewhere and with a lifestyle that is centered on our overall wellbeing, we empower ourselves and the people around us to strive for the best,” said Kathryn.