OBRA
Topakk bags MMFF’s Jury Prize Award, 2 other citations
12:10 p.m. December 29, 2024
TOPAKK has set the bar high for a high-caliber quality action packed film after bagging three awards in 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal last Friday evening due to its own original storyline.
Topakk’s main actor Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde and the rest of the casts made their way at the red carpet of the grand ball room in Solaire Resort & Casino, winning the Best Float, Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence, and the Jury Prize Award aside from its 12 nominations.
“Given that we are the most action-packed film this Christmas, may we give all genres a reason to comeback this Metro Manila Film Festival,” Atayde, also the Quezon City’s first district congressman, said after receiving the award in memory of the great Filipino actor FPJ which started in 2012.
The FPJ Memorial Award for Excellence is not only about action films, but it is also for its content, creative execution, mass appeal, redeeming values, and love for family and the oppressed that was shown in the movie starred by Atayde and actress Julia Montes.
“Thank you very much MMDA [Metro Manila Development Authority], MMFF, and all the juries for the recognition. I am so happy to see everyone it is like a big reunion so happy to be on stage again thank you for supporting Topakk and all Filipino movies,” Atayde added.
Topakk directed by award winning veteran director Richard Somes was also the first and only Filipino action film entry to the annual MMFF in 2024 with international recognition since 2022 Mamasapano: Now it can be told.
Jury Prize Award was then handed to Topakk for its superb excellence and achievement in creating a masterpiece that exemplifies the Filipino talents in film making, and for reviving a lost genres in Philippine cinema and providing magic to the action movie.
Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde, co-producer Will Fredo, Arjo Atayde, and director Somes, among other movie casts, went to the stage to receive the Jury Prize Award and thank everyone for the valuable recognition.
Nathan Studios took a gamble for producing a thrilling action film in May 2023 that made it also international on its first screening in 78th Cannes Film Festival in France, then at the 76thLocarno Film Festival in Switzerland in August 2023, followed by other international film festivals in Austin, Texas, and Catalonia, Spain both in September 2023 before coming home this year to the MMFF.
Topakk’s Miguel, an ex-military with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) played by Atayde in the film, met and saved Weng (Julia Montes) against a corrupt police death squad involved in a drug cartel headed by Sid Lucero and Bernard Palanca behind the nonstop action saga movie.
The film was nominated in Best Actor (Arjo Atayde), Best Supporting Actor (Kokoy De Santos), Best Cinematography (Louie Quirino), Best Actress (Julia Montes), Best Original Theme Song (Darkness calls), Best Editing (Jaime Dumancas), Best Director and Best Production Design(Richard Somes), Best Musical Score (Jose Antonio Buencamino), Best Supporting Actor (Sid Lucero), Best Sound (Wild Sound) and Best Visual Effects (Rance Cariño) categories of the MMFF.
OBRA
Globe celebrates Alex Eala’s inspiring run at Miami Open
10:10 p.m. March 28, 2025
Filipina tennis sensation and Globe ambassador Alex Eala once again made the nation proud with her stellar performance at the Miami Open, where she showcased remarkable skill and determination against some of the biggest names in the sport.
The 19-year-old wildcard and world no. 140 delivered a breathtaking run in the tourney, defeating three Grand Slam champions— world no. 25 Jelena Ostapenko, world no. 5 Madison Keys, and world No. 2 Iga Swiatek— before bowing out in a hard-fought semifinal match against American Jessica Pegula on Friday.
Despite an early lead and a valiant comeback in the second set, Eala ultimately bowed out, missing a finals berth but drawing rousing applause from the crowd following a remarkable run.
Alex was the first Filipina to make it as a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 1000 Semifinalist and the first in the Open Era to beat top-10 players. She is expected to reach her career-best ranking of 75 in the WTA when the rankings get published on Monday, becoming the first Filipina in history to debut in the top 100 of the WTA rankings.
“Alex has once again demonstrated the heart and fighting spirit of the Filipino. Her Miami Open journey is a testament to her relentless drive and unwavering dedication to the sport,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO. “We are incredibly proud of her achievements and will continue to support her as she inspires young athletes across the country.”
Eala, who has been a Globe ambassador since she was eight, has continuously raised the bar for Philippine tennis, showing that Filipino talent can shine among the world’s best. Her Miami Open campaign cements her status as a rising star in professional tennis and a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
Globe remains committed to continue supporting Eala as she continues her journey on the global tennis stage.
OBRA
Experience a royal first: Warabimochi Kamakura opens at SM Megamall
6:36 p.m. March 11, 2025
The wait is over! The globally celebrated Japanese dessert brand Warabimochi Kamakura has officially opened its doors at SM Megamall’s Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth magic, this viral sensation is the latest addition to SM Supermalls’ reputation as the #HomeOfFirsts, bringing first-to-market brands and world-class culinary experiences to Filipino foodies.
A Taste Fit for Royalty
Once a delicacy reserved for Japanese royalty, warabimochi has been reimagined by Warabimochi Kamakura into a global phenomenon. Crafted with a secret recipe and premium ingredients, their signature warabimochi boasts a delicate, jelly-like texture that dissolves blissfully in your mouth. Available in Kinako (roasted soybean flour) and Matcha, each serving is paired with a luscious Kuromitsu syrup that elevates the flavor.
But the experience doesn’t end there—Warabimochi Kamakura is also famous for its warabimochi drinks, a modern twist on the classic dessert. These refreshing beverages come packed with chewy warabimochi pieces in flavors like Matcha, Hojicha, Strawberry, Coffee, and the zesty Matcha Lemonade. Don’t miss out on their limited-edition seasonal flavors, with the first to be launched this Valentine’s Day, which are always worth the wait!
A Global Sensation Lands in Manila
With over 65 stores across Japan and a growing presence in foodie destinations like South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, USA, Australia and China, Warabimochi Kamakura has captured the hearts of dessert lovers around the world. Known for its viral appeal and signature taste, it’s no surprise that the brand has become synonymous with long lines and eager customers. Now, as part of SM Supermalls’ #HomeOfFirsts, SM Megamall is proud to be the exclusive Philippine destination where you can experience this sweet sensation firsthand.
Discover What’s New at SM Megamall
SM Supermalls takes pride in being the #HomeOfFirsts—bringing you the best in world-class dining, first-to-market brands, and groundbreaking experiences that redefine what it means to have it all. Warabimochi Kamakura’s arrival at SM Megamall expands the mall’s roster of brands offering Filipino mallgoers unforgettable experiences that both inspire and connect communities. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the world-renowned Japanese dessert phenomenon—come visit and be part of this sweet sensation!
Stay connected! Follow @kamakura_philippines on Instagram for updates, exclusive content, and sneak peeks. For more sweet discoveries and exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
OBRA
A Valentine’s weekend of fireworks and music at SM Mall of Asia
6:33 p.m. February 17, 2025
Skies full of lights, hearts filled with love — this is how Valentine’s weekend was celebrated at SM Mall of Asia (MOA) as it once again hosted “The Biggest and Brightest Show on Earth,” the 12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (PIPC).
A Valentine’s weekend to remember
Co-presented by SM Development Corporation (SMDC) and Suzuki, SM MOA elevated the Valentine’s weekend to dazzling new heights, leaving audiences mesmerized. The evening began with an extraordinary fireworks exhibition by Platinum Fireworks Inc., enveloping the sky in a cascade of light and color, setting a magical tone for the night.
Lola Amour serenades the crowd
As the perfect Valentine’s Day treat, the crowd was serenaded by a captivating live performance from Lola Amour, whose soulful melodies stirred hearts and created an atmosphere brimming with love and excitement.
Filipino rock band Lola Amour ignites the stage with an electrifying performance.
International fireworks take center stage
The night reached new levels of awe when the first competitor, Team Austria’s steyrFire Feuerwerke, took center stage. Audiences were spellbound as each burst of fireworks harmonized flawlessly with music, creating a breathtaking symphony of light and sound. The stunning showcase was a true spectacle, igniting the sky and the hearts of everyone in attendance, making it the ultimate Valentine’s weekend celebration.
The competition heats up
The 12th PIPC is a showdown of reigning pyromusical champions, with audiences witnessing spectacular performances over five Saturdays from February 15 to March 15.
On February 22, watch France’s Luxfactory Fireworks and China’s Polaris Fireworks, Co. LTD fill the night with colorful and equally unique fireworks displays. Witness USA’s Rozzi Fireworks and the 11th PIPC Champion—Steffes-Ollig Feurwerke of Germany as they open the month of March with a bang.
March 8 is South Korea’s Fassecom and United Kingdom’s Pyrotex Firework’s time to sparkle while Canada’s Royal Pyrotechnie will paint the sky on March 15. Finally, Platinum Fireworks Inc. will close the competition with a grand exhibition.
Ticket information
Get your pass for February 22 to March 8 for only P3,000 for Patron (with dinner), P800 for VIP, P500 for Gold, and P200 for Silver.
Meanwhile, tickets for the last show, March 15, ranges from P3,000 for Patron (with dinner), P1,000 for VIP, P600 for Gold, and P250 for Silver.
The PIPC is brought to you with the support of PlaytimePH. Event sponsors Power Mac Center and CameraHaus are also giving you a chance to win big in their Snap & Win Contest! Capture your favorite PIPC moment and upload it to your Facebook or Instagram. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/smmallofasia.
Get PIPC tickets via the SM Tickets website or at official PIPC ticket booths at SM MOA.
For more information on exciting SM MOA events, follow them on social media.
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