Lifestyle & Features

The country’s leading broadcast company GMA Network receives a grant from the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) to produce a high-quality program that promotes awareness on Filipino culture, social issues, and holistic development of the youth. GMA-7 is the sole broadcast company among the four qualified grantees to be awarded in the National Endowment Fund for Children’s Television (NEFCTV) 2022 Grants Program.  GMA …

As part of its milestone 25th anniversary celebration, GMA Network’s flagship and acclaimed documentary program, I-Witness, gathered students from various schools for an inspiring talk session dubbed “i-25: The I-Witness Talks” last August 20 at the Blessed Frassati Auditorium of the University of Santo Tomas. I-Witness’ hosts, Kara David, Howie Severino, Atom Araullo, Mav Gonzales, and John Consulta,  shared their experiences as documentarists, giving the attendees helpful advice. …

Dead Man Walking, a contemporary opera by Jake Heggie, begins and ends with a murder. Based on the nonfiction book of the same title on the recollection of events that happened in 1982 by Sister Helen Prejean, Heggie’s Dead Man Walking is a harrowing yet beautiful tale of forgiveness, regret, and unlikely friendships in the middle of pursuing justice. Sister Helen Prejean …

GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF), the socio-civic arm of GMA Network, recently received a four-million-peso donation from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The donation was formally handed over by AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr. to GMAKF Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Rikki Escudero-Catibog during the “Sagip Dugtong Buhay” bloodletting event held on August 17 …

Edgar Mortiz, a 70s teenage idol turned TV director and producer, returns to his musical roots with "Goin’ Standards," an album of Frank Sinatra songs. Described by journalist Nestor Cuartero as a heartfelt passion project, the album showcases Edgar's smooth vocals, providing a nostalgic, joyful experience. Available on vinyl and digital platforms.

Jordan Shangkuan Ong, a modern Renaissance man, blends elements of art, science, and technology. He is a concert pianist and filmmaker recognized at Cannes and the Texas Renaissance Festival. As a Senior Salesforce Business Analyst, he excels in AI and automation. Ong, honored with the Asian Pillars Award, inspires young pianists and has performed globally, balancing his dual careers.

Fiesta in America Expo 2024 in East Rutherford, NJ, featured diverse cultural events, business networking, and community empowerment. Highlights included the People’s Ball, Jose Rizal film screening, a fashion show, and live performances. Over 12,800 attendees celebrated Filipino heritage, while free healthcare and support for small businesses further underscored the event's community focus.

By NESTOR CUARTERO In the midst of a busy city life, how refreshing it was to be invited to a traditional barrio fiesta. We responded to just that last May 15, the feast day of San Isidro, patron saint of farmers. After a 45-minute drive from Rosario town heading east towards San Juan, Batangas, we arrived at our destination, the …

By YUGEL LOSORATA  When a book you’ve written is published, it means one thing: You’ve finished one and it’s forever out there. You can’t guarantee anything other than that, like it becoming a bestseller or making you a certified celebrity, or your crush back in high school reading it and realizing what a mistake that she took you for granted …

The FDCP, under its government mandate, leads the Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM). In its fourth year, PFIM 2024 promises an unforgettable tribute to the nation’s cinematic heritage, with the theme ‘Tuloy ang Tradisyon ng Pelikulang Pilipino,’ honoring the legacies of National Artists for Film, especially marking the 100th birth anniversary of Eddie Romero.  Throughout September, the FDCP will bring …