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Metrobank soars in 2023 with back-to-back local and international awards
Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) continued its upward momentum in 2023 as it brought home awards that demonstrated its strength and reliability for clients and cemented its leadership in the industry......»»
Metrobank soars in 2023 with back-to-back local and international awards
Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) continued its upward momentum in 2023 as it brought home awards that demonstrated its strength and reliability for clients and cemented its leadership in the industry......»»
Hori7on’s first winter wonderland in Seoul
Like an OG international boy group, the Pinoy pop pride Hori7on jetted back to Seoul, South Korea right after the Asia Artist Awards (AAA) to continue rehearsing and practicing its expertise in performing. Solidifying the brand further, the group members Vinci, Kim, Kyler, Reyster, Winston, Jeromy, and Marcus are spending the holidays away from family......»»
FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year
Real-world impact and contributions to society are the best measures of education. It stands as the most valid indicator of effective learning. The World University Rankings for Innovation has revolutionized the way we measure academic success, putting emphasis on tangible outcomes that shape communities and drive progress. Leading the charge among Philippine universities, FEU Tech (Far Eastern University Institute of Technology) has risen through the ranks of this prestigious award for three consecutive years, showcasing its unwavering commitment to modern education. With groundbreaking research, cutting-edge methodologies and a transformative approach to learning, FEU Tech is not just creating graduates but shaping future Filipino trailblazers who can thrive in workplaces and create substantial impact in different industries. Real-world results WURI aims to effectively measure such impact by highlighting creative and innovative approaches universities have in their research and educational programs through six categories: Industrial Application, rather than the traditional ways of counting research papers and lecture-type teaching; Value-Creating startups and entrepreneurship, rather than a traditional focus on the number of jobs filled; Social Responsibility, Ethics and Integrity, rather than a focus on knowledge and skills just for material success; Student Mobility and Openness for exchange and collaboration between schools and across national borders, rather than an independent yet closed system; Crisis Management in the midst of climate change, Covid-19 pandemic and other global and local crises; Progress during the Fourth Industrial Revolution through digital technology, artificial intelligence, big data, cloud services, blockchain and so on. FEU Tech, which has always been on the lookout for opportunities to innovate its educational programs, was the only university in the Philippines to join the WURI Rankings back in 2020. After ranking Top 19 for Ethical Values on their first try, the institution was poised to garner more awards in succeeding years. In 2021, FEU Tech ranked Top 24 for Entrepreneurial Spirit. In 2022, they ranked Top 98 overall globally, and in 2023, ranked Top 77 overall in a very competitive pool of top-performing universities and institutions both in the Philippines and around the globe. FEU’s invaluable contribution towards the internationalization of Philippine higher education also garnered recognition from the Commission on Higher Education during the Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability Awards 2023 last 6 October. The award was received by Dr. Florante D. Poso Jr., director of Quality Assurance. Immersive FEU Tech’s commitment to revolutionizing education goes beyond rankings. Amidst the pandemic crisis, the university has unveiled its innovative Mastery-based Individualized Learning Enhancement System, which aims to create an adaptive, immersive and personalized learning experience. MILES empowers students with the flexibility to explore and master their subjects at their own pace, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and creativity. At the heart of MILES lies a cutting-edge virtual learning environment where students can immerse themselves in interactive simulations, collaborate with peers and engage in hands-on learning experiences, transcending the limitations imposed by physical classrooms. The university’s enhanced WURI ranking is just the beginning when it comes to its pivotal role in shaping innovation ecosystems, creating significant contributions to society and becoming a recognized global leader in transformative education. The post FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
4 World Travel Awards titles eyed
The country’s best destinations are vying for four major awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2023, considered the Oscars of the travel industry.The Department of Tourism on Wednesday said the Philippines earned four nominations including its back-to-back titles as the World’s Leading Beach Destination, World’s Leading Dive Destination, and World’s Leading Island Destination.The DoT is also vying for the World’s Leading Tourist Board title.“The Philippines’ track record of excellence in the travel and tourism industry continues to earn its reputation as aworld-class destination. The nation’s nomination in four distinct categories underscores its commitment to providing travelers with unparalleled experiences,” the DoT statement said.Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said that such nominations further recognizes the Philippines as an in-demand destination both for local and international travelers to this day. Growing global interest for Phl“We welcome these nominations that show growing global interest and love for the Philippines. With the natural beauty of our beaches, dive sites, and islands, the wealth of history, heritage, and culture, and the festivals, flavors, and adventures across our diverse regions, every tourist’s journey guarantees a lifetime of memories. Tourism employs over 5.35 million Filipinos who display such care and hospitality for our tourists that make the Philippine experience truly unforgettable,” she said.Established in 1993, the London-based WTA acknowledges excellence in the travel and tourism industry in three tiers: country, regional, and world awards across different categories. The post 4 World Travel Awards titles eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SB19, Francine Diaz, Ivana Alawi big winners at TikTok Awards Phl 2023
Phenomenal P-pop group SB19 and some of the country’s most popular actors and social media content creators were among the big winners at the “TikTok Awards Philippines 2023,” held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City on 30 September. SB19’s “Gento,” which topped local and foreign charts and has been covered by many K-pop groups and international dancers, won Song of the Year. [caption id="attachment_191701" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Francine Diaz | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/FRANCINE DIAZ[/caption] Dirty Linen and Fractured Actress Francine Diaz emerged as Celebrity Creator of the Year, besting nine other nominees including David Licauco, Barbie Forteza, Dennis Trillo, Yeng Constantino, Maris Racal, Jillian Ward, Yassi Pressman and Rayver Cruz. [caption id="attachment_191702" align="aligncenter" width="525"] IVANA ALAWI | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/IVANA ALAWI[/caption] Popular vlogger-turned-actress Ivana Alawi won “Shop Creator of the Year,” beating actresses Kiray Celis, Sherilyn Reyes-Tan, Iwa Moto, twins Joj and Jai Agpangan, and content creators Nicole Caluag, Akosi Dogie, Queenee Mercado, Momshie Odille and Michelle Ho of My Best Mommy Life. Meanwhile, Arshie Larga was hailed as “Tiktok Creator of the Year.” The popular pharmacist-TikToker, who is known for his informative yet entertaining content, looked back on his TikTok journey and thanked God, his family and his supporters for appreciating his work. In his acceptance speech, he urged his fellow content creators to be a force for good in society: “Let’s always use our platforms wisely and responsibly, and ‘yung clout natin gamitin sa tamang paraan, not just to entertain but to inspire.” The complete list of winners of the TikTok Awards Philippines 2023: TikTok Creator of the Year: Arshie Larga Dance Creator of the Year: Niana Guerrero Comedy Creator of the Year: Spencer Serafica Effect House Creator of the Year: Andie Rabino Popular Creator of the Year: Carlyn Ocampo Celebrity Creator of the Year: Francine Diaz Song of the Year: SB19’s “Gento” Popular TikTok Shop Creator: Ivana Alawi Popular TikTok Shop Brand Owner: Viy Cortez Rising Creator of the Year: Miss Deliciousness Livestreamer of the Year: Krizel Yuson Entertainment Creator of the Year: Jezreel Ely Breakthrough Entertainment Partner: ABS-CBN News Publisher of the Year: News5 Educator of the Year: Chinkee Tan Beauty Creator of the Year: Teree Daisuke Fashion Creator of the Year: Jeanette Ong Foodie Creator of the Year: Abi Marquez Gaming Creator of the Year: Archerperezz Sports Creator of the Year: Bianca Bustamante The post SB19, Francine Diaz, Ivana Alawi big winners at TikTok Awards Phl 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nobel prize goes to mRNA Covid vaccine researchers
Researchers Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman won the Nobel Medicine Prize on Monday for work on messenger RNA (mRNA) technology that paved the way for groundbreaking Covid-19 vaccines. The pair, who had been tipped as favourites, "contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times", the jury said. The World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a pandemic in March 2020 and the first mRNA vaccines were approved for use against the illness in December that year. Billions of Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna doses have been injected around the world since then. Together with other Covid vaccines, they "have saved millions of lives and prevented severe disease in many more", the jury said. Kariko, 68, and Weissman, 64, longstanding colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States, have already won a slew of awards for their research. In recognising the duo this year, the Nobel committee broke with its usual practice of honouring decades-old discoveries, aimed at ensuring it has stood the test of time. While the prizewinning research dates back to 2005, the first vaccines to use the mRNA technology came out just three years ago. Unlike traditional vaccines which use weakened virus or a key piece of the virus' protein, mRNA vaccines provide the genetic molecules that tell cells what proteins to make, which simulates an infection and trains the immune system for when it encounters the real virus. Sweet comeback The idea was first demonstrated in 1990 but it wasn't until the mid-2000s that Weissman, of the US, and Hungarian-born Kariko developed a technique to control a dangerous inflammatory response seen in animals exposed to these molecules, opening the way to develop safe human vaccines. The honour is particularly sweet for Kariko, the 13th woman to win the Medicine Prize, who toiled in obscurity for years and struggled to convince her superiors of the need for research on messenger ribonucleic acid. Speaking to Swedish Radio, she said her late mother always had faith in her, listening to the Nobel prize announcements "year after year" hoping to hear her daughter's name called out. "Unfortunately, five years ago she passed at the age of 89. She might be listening from above," Kariko said. Thomas Perlmann, the secretary general of the Nobel Assembly, called Kariko "an extraordinary and unusual scientist" who "resisted any temptation" to do "something easier". Weissman told AFP he heard the news from Kariko, who received the call from the jury first. "We were wondering if somebody was pulling a prank on us," he said. "This is the ultimate -- this is the prize I thought of when I was five years old when I started to get interested in how things worked," he added. Breakthrough In the 1990s, Kariko believed mRNA held the key to treating diseases where having more of the right kind of protein can help -- like repairing the brain after a stroke. But the University of Pennsylvania, where Kariko was on track for a professorship, demoted her after grant rejections piled up. She carried on as a lower-rung researcher. Much of the scientific community was at the time focused on using DNA to deliver gene therapy, but Kariko believed that mRNA was also promising since most diseases are not hereditary and don't need solutions that permanently alter our genetics. First though, she had to overcome the problem of the massive inflammatory response in animal experiments, as the immune system sensed an invader and rushed to fight it. Kariko and Weissman discovered that one of the four building blocks of the synthetic mRNA was at fault -- and they could overcome the problem by swapping it for a modified version. They published a paper on the breakthrough in 2005. In 2015, they found a new way to deliver mRNA into mice, using a fatty coating called "lipid nanoparticles" that prevent the mRNA from degrading and help place it inside the right part of cells. Both these innovations were key to the Covid-19 vaccines. Nobel Committee member Olle Kampe said the prestigious prize may help sway the opinion of some anti-vaxxers. It "may make hesitant people take the vaccine and be sure that it's very efficient and safe", he told AFP. The technology is now being used to develop other treatments for cancer, influenza and heart failure, among others. Kariko and Weissman will receive their Nobel diploma, gold medal and $1 million cheque in Stockholm on December 10. The Nobel will however not be the first gold medal in Kariko's family. Her daughter Susan Francia is a two-time Olympic gold medallist rower. The post Nobel prize goes to mRNA Covid vaccine researchers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The 10-year-old fashion influencer
Taylen Biggs has close to 1.5 million followers across TikTok and Instagram, a wardrobe full of designer clothes and 15 fashion weeks under her belt -- and she's 10 years old. Taylen arrived at last week's Balmain show, one of the hottest tickets of Paris Fashion Week, in a luxurious white jacket-and-skirt combo by the French label, black boots and bag by Karl Lagerfeld and her favourite Vintage Frames shades. She was followed, as always, by her cameraman. Also keeping a discreet distance was her "bodyguard", as she calls him, who also happens to be her father. "I love fashion and I love meeting new people and interviewing them and seeing what they have to say," she told AFP, before getting down to business with her microphone. Taylen, who lives in Miami, has interviewed the likes of DJ Khaled, popstar Kali Uchis and American Football star Patrick Mahomes, as well as a huge number of models, designers and fellow fashionistas. She is practically a veteran of red carpets, appearing at everything from the MTV Music Awards to the Superbowl, a regular at New York and Miami fashion weeks, and all over Milan and Paris for the past fortnight. "I really miss my family a lot," she said. "And I miss Miami. But I don't miss the food from Miami. I'm in love with the food here." Influencers are now the fashion industry's favoured form of media -- a direct line to the public and happy to trade goodies for coverage -- and age is no obstacle. Taylen's father, Josh Biggs, says he has largely given up his job as a construction contractor in Miami to work full-time as his daughter's assistant. "I travel with her everywhere she goes, I am her shadow," he told AFP. Asked if his daughter has become a business, he says: "People see her through the camera lens... but in real life, she's a child first and foremost." 'No qualms' Taylen landed her first modelling gig when she was 18 months old after her fashion-loving mother, a Colombian who came to the United States when she was 13, posted pictures of her on social media that were spotted by an advertising agency. She now runs her daughter's social media accounts and oversees home-schooling for Taylen and her two younger brothers. "We take school very seriously, it's priority number one," said her father. They worked through the summer so that Taylen could take a long break during the back-to-back fashion weeks in Milan and Paris in September. Taylen's father -- who says he has little interest in fashion -- says there is no pressure on his daughter to continue if she gets bored. "If she's ready to change and pursue a different career, then it's up to her," he said. "We will leave the fashion world in a second. There's no qualms about it." But Taylen seems to enjoy her job. "I'm really good with anyone," she said. "I'm really good with kids. I loooove children! And I really love adults -- I don't even get annoyed." The post The 10-year-old fashion influencer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Metrobank gets global recognitions for exceptional performance
Built on trust, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. has been recognized as the Strongest Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker for the third straight year and the Best Domestic Bank in the country by Asiamoney. This attests to the Bank’s strength and reliability in putting its clients in good hands. The Bank gained these prestigious international recognitions from The Asian Banker and Asiamoney for its consistent strong financial performance across the board. In the first half of 2023, Metrobank maintained a strong 34 percent growth in net income of P20.9 billion, fueled by the Bank’s expanding assets, enhanced margins, and robust fee income growth while sustaining a stable asset quality. One of the World’s Best Companies On top of these awards, the Bank was also listed by TIME Magazine and Statista as one of the World’s Best Companies. The “World’s Best Companies” is a comprehensive list that ranks top performing companies across the globe based on employee satisfaction, revenue growth, and sustainability. “We’re honored to receive these back-to-back recognitions, especially as we celebrate the Bank’s 61st anniversary. At Metrobank, we always strive for excellence — whether it be in addressing our clients’ needs, achieving exceptional financial performance across our business, or contributing to nation-building. These awards are testaments to the steadfast commitment and relentless drive of each Metrobanker to keep Filipinos in good hands,” said Metrobank president Fabian Dee. Reliable partner through Filipinos’ financial journey For decades, Metrobank served as a reliable partner for Filipinos throughout their life journey — providing them financial services and guidance that are tailor-fit to their needs, even as they now navigate a modern and digital world. But before offering them a product or a service, every Metrobanker ensures that their clients fully and clearly understand the financial products and services they will avail of. The Bank’s mission to enable Filipinos throughout their financial journey goes beyond simply offering relevant solutions. Despite its financial success, the Bank’s priority and advocacy is to educate Filipinos first as they step into their financial journey. This is to make sure that every client makes a fully-informed financial decision and know how to protect themselves against fraud. This is made evident through Metrobank’s sustained financial education efforts — designed to equip Filipinos with reliable financial advice, fit for every life stage. In 2022, Metrobank introduced a comprehensive personal finance e-book developed to help Filipinos to become financially resilient. Meanwhile, the Bank’s Earnest app aims to simplify investing, through bite-sized lesson cards and easy-to-understand articles that cover basic investing concepts. For more advanced investors, there is Wealth Insights, an online portal that contains publicly accessible market-moving news and insights, as well as exclusive premium content that includes bespoke articles which dive deep into timely and actionable investment ideas. Meanwhile, Metrobank provides its clients with regular reminders and guidance to protect themselves against fraudulent transactions via SMS, emails, and social media posts. Today, Filipinos can easily start their financial journey by going to Metrobank’s hundreds of branches nationwide or digitally via the Earnest app. Those aiming to further grow their funds through investments can do so with Metrobank’s Online Time Deposit, which offers an interest rate of up to 4.5 percent, or through Metrobank’s wide-range of unit investment trust funds (UITF). With its commitment to give customers a safe, simple and secure experience on the NEW Metrobank app, the Bank recently introduced its interoperable QR feature, which allows on-the- go clients to enjoy more convenient fund transfers to and from other banks and e-wallets. Meanwhile, clients who are ready for a life upgrade - be it a new car or their dream home, can avail of Metrobank’s home and car loan offers with affordable rates and flexible payment terms. Growth partner for businesses Metrobank’s services transcends from customers to enterprises. When Metrobank was founded in 1962, it was primarily built to be a bank for businesses. Over six decades later, the Bank continues to stay true to its roots by offering a full suite of best-in-class financial solutions designed to serve enterprises of all sizes — from SMEs to large corporations based here and abroad. The post Metrobank gets global recognitions for exceptional performance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Strike deal only first step in resolving film industry crisis
A tentative deal to end a long-running writers' strike that has paralyzed Hollywood is only a first step in resolving a film industry crisis, as an equally bitter studio stand-off with the actors' union stretches on. The Writers Guild of America, which walked out back in May over demands including better pay and safeguards against the use of artificial intelligence, finally thrashed out a deal with studios including Netflix and Disney on Sunday night. Ratification of that agreement -- first by the WGA board, then by its 11,500 members -- is widely expected to be waved through without any obstacles in the coming weeks. Picketing for writers has been suspended and the guild has indicated that it could allow members to return to work even before the final vote is counted. Late-night TV shows could return to air "within the next two to three weeks," according to Variety, citing industry insiders. But a far thornier issue is the still ongoing strike by Hollywood actors, represented by the SAG-AFTRA union, which is likely to take weeks to resolve and will prevent any return to production in the immediate future. Even after that, with hundreds of film and television shoots backed up, it could take months for Hollywood to clear the logistical logjam and get fully back to work. "There are presumably upwards of 1,500 productions that all want to start as soon as they can," said entertainment lawyer Jonathan Handel. "And so when SAG gives the word, they're all going to be competing simultaneously... it's absolute chaos. "I don't think we're going to see normalcy in the production process until sometime after January or February." 'Huge roadblock' The WGA's deal with studios achieved compromises on minimum wage increases, bonus payments for writers participating in hit shows, and guarantees that scripts using AI will not undercut human writers and their paychecks. Many of these issues overlap with the actors' demands, and SAG-AFTRA negotiators will be poring over the fine details this week, ahead of their own talks with studios. But, Handel warned, many SAG-AFTRA demands go further than those of the writers. These include steeper pay rises to counter rampant inflation, and an actual share of revenue for hit streaming shows. Studios will be wary that whatever they offer to actors is likely to be demanded by other Hollywood professions such as movie set crews and technicians, who have their own contract renewals due next year. "I think basic wages going are going to be a huge roadblock towards the SAG deal in the next few weeks, because of pattern bargaining," said Handel. SAG-AFTRA also has its own specific demands, such as restrictions on the use of remote, self-taped auditions, which became ubiquitous during the pandemic but are disliked by many actors. 'Fool's assumption' Still, Sunday's deal means SAG-AFTRA negotiators could meet with unions as soon as next week, for the first time since actors went on strike in July. "The end of the WGA strike will hasten the end of SAG-AFTRA's walkout," predicted Variety. But even "if things go smoothly -- which is a fool's assumption -- I still think it would take two to three weeks to get a SAG deal done... which takes you into October," said Handel. "Then there's the ratification process, which takes another month." That means the clock is ticking for actors to be able to promote big year-end movie releases, such as Disney's superhero sequel "The Marvels." And publicists are desperate for their stars to start campaigning for some of the industry's biggest events -- television's Emmy Awards, and the film industry's Oscars, which take place in January and March respectively. The post Strike deal only first step in resolving film industry crisis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mike Enriquez honored by PMAP with posthumous award
For his contributions to the industry as one of the country’s most trusted broadcast journalists, Miguel “Mike” Enriquez was posthumously conferred a Makatao Award for Media Excellence by the People Management Association of the Philippines. The award was personally received by his wife, Lizabeth “Baby” Enriquez, together with GMA Network first vice president for radio Glenn Allona and assistant vice president for GMA Integrated News John Ray Arrabe, during a ceremony held at GMA Network last 15 September. Presenting the award to Mrs. Enriquez were 2022 PMAP president and board of trustees for Media and Communications member Ellen Fullido; PMAP communication specialist and Makatao Awards for Media Excellence program lead Martin Alcantara; training head Richard Mamuyac; and HR Head Bernadette Tan. A five-time Makatao awardee and Hall of Famer, Enriquez was recognized by PMAP for his dedication to and enduring legacy in advancing public knowledge, as well as his promotion of sound people management in the country through his years of service as broadcaster. Enriquez was recognized as Best TV Male Newscaster at the 3rd Makatao Awards in 2013. He achieved back-to-back Best Radio News Anchor wins at the 6th and 7th Makatao Awards in 2017 and 2018. He then took home the Best Radio News Program Host award during the 8th and 10th Makatao Awards in 2018 and 2022. Enriquez. who passed away last 29 August at the age of 71, was the president of RGMA Network, Inc. and GMA Network's senior vice president and consultant for Radio Operations. He anchored DZBB's “Super Balita sa Umaga” and “Saksi sa Dobol B." He was one of the anchors of GMA's flagship newscast “24 Oras” and of the late-night newscast “Saksi.” He also hosted the long-running public affairs program “Imbestigador.” Several Kapuso news personalities and shows were also recognized at PMAP’s 11th Makatao Awards held last 30 August. State of the Nation anchor Atom Araullo won Best TV News Program Host, while GMA Integrated News Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab's online newscast Stand for Truth was named the Best Online Broadcast for its "Emergency Landing" episode. In the radio category, the tandem of Arnold Clavio and Connie Sison were recognized as Best Radio Public Affairs Program while “Dobol Weng sa Dobol B” was named Best Radio Public Affairs Program. Joey Reyes Zobel and Melo Del Prado completed the awards by winning Best News Program Hosts. For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.GMANetwork.com. The post Mike Enriquez honored by PMAP with posthumous award appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast
Rama, Hari (Rama the King) returns to live stage, becoming one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. Produced by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the ballet and musical had its gala at the rehabilitated Manila Metropolitan Theater on 15 September. Aside from the show itself, there were a lecture and a small tiangge (bazaar), affording the audience a fuller experience and a deeper appreciation of the ballet, as well as the source material, the Sanskrit epic Ramayana. Also an initiative in line with the recently signed Philippines-Indonesia Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation and the Philippines-India Cultural Exchange Program, the lecture, “Perspectives: Understanding Ramayana, The Great Epic of Asia,” was held in the early afternoon at the Metropolitan Theater Ballroom, tackling the impacts and different interpretations of Ramayana not only in India but also in Southeast Asia. Speakers were Agus Widjojo, ambassador of Indonesia to the Philippines; Shambu Kumaran, ambassador of India to the Philippines; and Dr. Marilyn Canta, retired professor from the University of the Philippines in Diliman. [caption id="attachment_185911" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Indian Ambassador Shambu Kumaran, Dr. Marilyn Canta, NCCA chairman Ino Manalo and Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo. | Photograph by Roel Hoang Manipon[/caption] The Hindu epic, said to date back as early as the mid-eighth century BCE, is a much beloved work and has many versions in Southeast Asia. Its influence is very much evident in Indonesia, where the epic has a version written in old Javanese, called the Kakawin Ramayana. The Prambanan, the ninth-century Hindu temple compound, has bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the epic, and the Ramayana Ballet is regularly performed up to this day. In the Philippines, the Meranaw people of Mindanao has a folk story derived from Ramayana, “Maharadia Lawana,” which was adapted into an hours-long, modern theatrical showcase for the Budayaw: The BIMP-EAGA Festival of Cultures in 2017. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. Audience members started arriving at six. The first-timers to the theater explored and took photographs of the different corners. Illustrious guests were led by National Artists Virgilio S. Almario, Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Ricky Lee and Agnes Locsin, as well as cultural agency heads, National Archives of the Philippines executive director and NCCA chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, National Museum of the Philippines director Jeremy R. Barns and Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino chairman Arthur P. Casanova. Also in the audience were theater and cinema scholar Nicanor Tiongson, professor and researcher Galileo Zafra, actor and satirist Mae Paner, actor Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, talent manager Noel Ferrer, theater critic Amadis Maria Guerrero, Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, chef Gelo Guison and designer Barge Ramos. Aika Robredo, the eldest daughter of former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, also enjoyed the show. [caption id="attachment_185913" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The wedding of Rama and Sita.[/caption] Her mother graced a rehearsal on 6 September, especially invited by Rama, Hari choreographer and director, National Artist Alice Reyes and composer, National Artist Ryan Cayabyab. On 7 September, Robredo enthused on Facebook: “Yesterday, we, together with some local artists from Naga, trooped to the Metropolitan Theater in Manila to watch their first full stage rehearsal and we were stunned. They were not in costumes yet and the stage design was not even mounted yet but the entire production left us breathless and speechless!! It is the best of Philippine Dance and Music.” She encouraged everyone not to miss “the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists.” Aside from Reyes and Cayabyab, the other National Artists involved in the production are the late Bienvenido Lumbera, who wrote the lyrics and libretto; Salvador Bernal, who designed the stage and costumes; and Rolando Tinio, who translated it to English. They were not yet declared National Artists when the production by Ballet Philippines premiered on 8 February 1980 at CCP’s Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo. The original staging featured Nonoy Froilan, Basil Valdez, Kuh Ledesma, Leo Valdez and Edna Vida. Rama, Hari was not restaged until 2012, starring Christian Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Richardson Yadao and Katherine Trofeo. It won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay awards. An adaptation was mounted in 1999, called Rama, Hari, Rama at Sita, The Musical, featuring Ariel Rivera and Lani Misalucha as performers, directed by Leo Rialp and choreographed by Locsin. The music was composed by Cayabyab and Danny Tan, and the lyrics written by Roy Iglesias and Dodjie Simon, based on Lumbera’s book. Rama, Hari was planned to be the closing production of Ballet Philippines’ 50th season in March 2020, but was canceled when lockdowns were imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic. When Reyes established her own dance company in 2022, the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Rama, Hari became one of its cherished projects. [caption id="attachment_185909" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Energetic dancing by Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. | Photographs courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Reyes put both dancers and singers on the same stage, interpreting scenes and emotions in both words and movements. The cast is led by Arman Ferrer as Rama with alternate Vien King and dancer versions Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola. Sita is portrayed by singers Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and neophyhte Nica Tupas and dancers Monica Gana and Katrene San Miguel. [caption id="attachment_185910" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Erl Sorilla as Lakshmana and Monica Gana as Sita. | Photograph courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Singers Poppert Bernadas, Matthew San Jose and Jonel Mojica and dancers Richardson Yadao (also dancer for King Janaka) and Tim Cabrera take on the villain role, the demon king of Lanka, Ravana. Other performers are Audie Gemora (singer, King Dasaratha), Lester Reguindin and John Ababon (dancers, King Dasaratha); Miah Canton and Raflesia Bravo (singers, Kooni and Soorpanakha); Ma. Celina Dofitas and Sarah Alejandro (dancers, Soorpanakha); Michaella Carreon and Dofitas (dancers, Kooni); Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana (singers, Kaikeyi and the Golden Deer); Janine Arisola and Karla Santos (dancers, Kaikeyi); Erl Sorilla and Renzen Arboleda (dancers, Lakshmana and King Sagreeva); Paw Castillo and Jon Abella (singers, Hanuman and Lakshmana); and Dan Dayo and Ricmar Bayoneta (dancers, Hanuman); Alejandro and Krislynne Buri (Golden Deer); Dayo and James Galarpe (Bharata). Aside from ARDP and CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program, other performers come from Guang Ming College Artist Residency Program, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers. Music is performed by Orchestra of the Filipino Youth with Antonio Maria P. Cayabyab as conductor. After the two-night gala on 15 and 16 September at the Manila Metropolitan Theater, the production moves to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater of Circuit Makati in Makati City on 22 and 23 September. The post ‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nina Lim-Yuson — A lifetime of girl scouting
The president of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Nina Lim-Yuson, grew up in a family and home of Girl Scouts. Her grandmother, Pilar Hidalgo-Lim, was one of the co-founders of the GSP. “It was actually my Lola Pilar who suggested to Josefa Llanes Escoda, the GSP founder, to go to America to learn about girl scouting.” This tidbit of history, Nina shared in an online interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE. Pilar Hidalgo-Lim became GSP president, and so did Nina’s mother, Estefania Aldaba-Lim, who served as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Nina’s sister too, the eminent broadcast journalist, Cheche Lazaro, was a Girl Scout. Coming from a lineage of women achievers, Nina could not have chosen a different path. It was scouting that formally introduced the family to social responsibility, skills development and citizenship. Her brothers were also Boy Scouts. “I started when I was six years old and it was my Lola Pilar who inducted me as a Brownie. It used to be called Brownie because we were still using the American pattern,” she related. She belonged to Troop Number One, the first to be organized by the GSP national headquarters. In high school at the Jose Abad Santos Memorial School of the Philippine Women’s University, she became a junior and later a senior Girl Scout. College would briefly end her Girl Scouting as she focused on her studies. Along the way, she also danced with the Bayanihan Folk Dance Company. It was not unexpected that she would return to scouting, her first love, and her first extra-curricular activity. For the last 36 years, she has been active in various organizations and volunteer work. She founded the Museong Pambata. She is a recipient of The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service and is active in its various social development efforts. What Nina brings to her post is the legacy of leadership that had been passed on to her through generations of women leaders in the family. “My Lola Pilar was my idol. She was such a nice person and I never knew her totally as a president. I knew her more as a loving lola from all the stories she related when we rode up to Baguio. “My mother, on the other hand, was the opposite. She was very career-minded. I learned naman from her a lot of things, like being thrifty and having a list of things to do. In terms of organization, she was like that. Because she was in government. And, you know, when we started Museo, while it was actually my concept, I learned a lot from her. She would call me up at 5 o’clock in the morning and she would rattle off what needed to be done, like ‘number one, number two and so on.’ That was her. And I’m glad that I worked with her for six years in Museo. She was the president and I was the executive director for six years. I took over in 2000 as president and chief executive officer. And then, I stepped down in 2017.” Girl Scouts who read and tell stories Nina was elected president of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines for the term 2021-2024 during its 2021 national convention. From day one, she shared, “My purpose was to reach out to the community-based troops because we have always been school-based. Many young women now have social problems so we need to reach out to the communities through our community-based troops.” Also on top of her priorities is literacy development, a cause that she addressed even in the Museo Pambata. She explained, “My advocacy has always been education. So, I was very concerned because the Asian Development Bank reported in 2022 that the World Bank found out that our Filipino children at ages 9 and 10 cannot read. So, I felt that because girl scouting is all over the country, with 96 local councils, the organization could serve as a vehicle for improving literacy in our country. “We started the Girl Scout Storyteller project because storytelling affects the heart first before the mind. When young people start with storytelling, they will love the stories and then the written word. They would then want to read. “We now have storytelling in economically challenged communities and we have partners. We sent out 2,500 books throughout the country with the help of our partner couriers.” Initially, she sought the help of her family foundation “to give a donation. I also sought the help of Ging Montinola, who is into literacy development. Together, we founded the literacy program. We are building this fund to cover the cost of buying children’s books. We will have a storytelling contest next year.” Raising funds for Camp Escoda Nina then shifted the conversation to another major endeavor that she is spearheading as GSP president — fundraising for the 27-hectare Camp Josefa Llanes Escoda in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, which was donated by the provincial government during the term of Governor Amado Aleta, the father of consul and civic leader Fortune Ledesma. “Palayan is beautiful because it has rolling hills, but it doesn’t have electrical and water facilities and roadworks. It doesn’t have a swimming pool, and it’s so hot in Nueva Ecija. It also does not have a conference hall. This is a big one-time fundraising project because it’s for the future of the girls who are going to the camp. Because as of now, if you go camping there, you have to walk up the hills to get your drinking water. You have to make buhos to take a bath.” She recalled, “In my time as a young Girl Scout, which was of another era, we had to walk in the dark to fetch water to fill up two drums. I was so scared because there were tuko in Los Baños. That taught me to be courageous. Camps really build up your lifetime skills and attitude. Camping is very integral in girl scouting and boy scouting. So, this camp will serve a purpose. It just needs various basic facilities to make it world-class and convenient with the proper amenities, but the girls will continue to learn all those survival techniques and appreciate nature right on the camp.” She praised architect Pippo Carunungan, “who is an environmental planner. He surveyed the site and drew up everything. It will be a beautiful camp, he said, because it’s a gift of nature.” First Lady as Chief Girl Scout Nina recently led the Girl Scouts in a fundraising ball attended by the “First Lady, Liza Araneta-Marcos, who is our Chief Girl Scout. It’s mandated in the GSP constitution that whoever is the female president of the country or the First Lady is the Chief Girl Scout. In the past, we had Imelda Marcos, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. All the first ladies were all Chief Girl Scouts. “Mrs. Liza Marcos spoke before us and she promised to help. She said, ‘We will make it the best campsite.’ Everyone was excited to see her and she obliged everyone who asked to have selfie with her. She is very friendly. She is really a Girl Scout.” Nina shared, “A generous couple is sponsoring the swimming pool at P6 million, while a gentleman entrepreneur is sponsoring the perimeter fence at P1.5 million. Many other businessmen and leaders have pledged to help build this dream GSP project. “We really need to raise about 50 million to have a very good camp. But when the First Lady heard about it, she said, ‘It has to be P250 million.’ But, really, when we have the funds, we can have deep toilets that have running water instead of tabo-tabo. Since we have a little Pampanga river that runs across the camp, we can build a bridge that crosses it and then the girls can have white-water rafting there in the Pampanga river. “Camp Escoda will be a very important and significant venue for our Girl Scouts to gather, bond, learn new skills and develop as morally upright citizens of the country and the world. It is especially so because camping is integral in any Girl Scout’s life. If you don’t have camping, it’s like half of your scouting life is missing. Every Girl Scout remembers that time of her youth. And being the national camp, it will welcome Girl Scouts representing the 96 councils from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao who will participate in various events and trainings.” Girl Scouts of all ages As GSP president, Nina travels to various parts of the country. “We have regional conferences aside from the meeting of the Central Board when regional heads and executives come to Manila. “I had just come from Baguio where I stayed for two-and-a-half days. I met our young Girl Scout representatives from ages 14 to 18. I enjoyed listening to them and exchanging ideas with them. I am so happy that we have a wealth of intelligent girls who want to serve the country. They are the ones who are going to take over. “It’s amazing that GSP is no longer limited to old people on the board. We finally have young ones on the board. Our Escoda committee is headed by Jade Delgado from Iloilo. Then we have Justine Bautista. She’s a psychometrician. She heads the Program Committee, which is a big committee because when we were in Baguio, we had 86 girls from all the councils throughout the country. Many of them are running for SK. “So, in my 70s now, which I don’t feel at all, I don’t take any medicines or something like that. Being with young people is what inspires me. Because at 15, 16 or 17, they already know that they have some kind of a mission.” Nina proudly shared that the venue of the Baguio conference, 'Ating Tahanan' on the South Drive was bought during the tenure of my Lola Pilar. We have four buildings there, including the houses of Senator and actor Rogelio de la Rosa and Carlos Valdes, the accountant. Lola Pilar, according to Carlos Valdes, twisted his arm to get a low price. I’m so thankful for all those who preceded me because they bought these places. It’s on South Drive which is so valuable. We even have a reserved forest behind us.” As she looks forward to the next camping and gets even busier raising funds for Camp Escoda, Nina feels elated that “every one of us in the Girl Scouts has been together in our various undertakings. The nice thing is we are now intergenerational because we try to bring in the old with experience, institutional memory and their wisdom born of their long life, and the young who are full of enthusiasm, energy and new ideas.” A star scout for a granddaughter While Nina does her part for the bright future of girl scouting in the country, her personal family too has not stopped contributing to the roster of members to this worldwide organization. Today, a granddaughter of hers, seven-year-old Rocio Yuson de Guzman, is a Star Scout. She is the daughter of Nina’s daughter, Nicky. No grandmother could have been prouder. Nina said, “Rufio loves being a star scout. When I arrived from the recent world conference in Cyprus, I came back with some badges and I gave some to Rufio who is very proud of the little badges that I got for her.” For sure, Nina will pass on not just the badges to Rufio. More importantly, she will give her granddaughter the once-in-one’s-childhood experience of being a Girl Scout and learning “the values that are identified in the Girl Scout Promise and Laws. I think that while there is so much to enjoy and learn, it is the inculcation of these values that would mold her into a well-rounded human being. As we all know, a Girl Scout’s honor is to be trusted. A Girl Scout is loyal, thrifty, courteous… and so on. It’s like a mantra -- the values that one lives by. “I have reached that point when it is not about success or what one accumulates in life, whether awards or accomplishments or material things. It is more about what I can share and scouting gives me that honor and privilege — to do my part in helping mold our young girls and making them aware even at an early age that they have a mission and worthy purpose in life. It is not just about being good and outstanding on your own but it is also about helping others to become better in what they’re doing and live better lives. “And I need not look far. As a grandmother, I dote on my Star Scout granddaughter, Rufio. There’s a world out there for her to discover and in which she has a role to play and use the skills and values she will learn from scouting.” The post Nina Lim-Yuson — A lifetime of girl scouting appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NSYNC to release first new song in decades for ‘Trolls’ movie
American boy band NSYNC has reunited for their first new song in over 20 years, which will be featured in the upcoming movie "Trolls Band Together." "Back in the Studio. Better Place out 9/29," the group posted on social media Thursday, alongside a video of all five members recording their vocals. The last studio album released by turn-of-the-millennium heartthrobs Justin Timberlake, Joey Fatone, JC Chasez, Lance Bass and Chris Kirkpatrick was 2001's "Celebrity." "If we do this song it's a love letter to our fans," Timberlake said in the video posted to X. "Wait, that's the first NSYNC song finished in 23 years," Bass added. Timberlake voices a lead character in the "Trolls" film trilogy, with the third installment coming to US theaters in November. The new movie features a boy band storyline. NSYNC's members reunited onstage this week for the first time in a decade to present Taylor Swift with the Best Pop award at the MTV Video Music Awards. The post NSYNC to release first new song in decades for ‘Trolls’ movie appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Homemade gin with a hint of malunggay and sampaguita
Swing through the double glass doors along 30th street of Bonifacio Global City and straight into the city’s award-winning drinking den, The Back Room, as it serves its newest elixirs to enjoy. Spearheaded by mixologist Volkan Ibil, The Back Room offers 13 new concoctions. [caption id="attachment_183397" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The Bootleg.[/caption] “The bar’s philosophy is more tipple than fare. Our 13 new signature cocktails are categorized into five themes based on taste preference which were named after a specific narrative of the Prohibition Era: Jag Juice (strong, flavor-forward), Giggle Water (sophisticated and glamorous), Live Wire (refreshing), Moonshine (experimental) and On a Toot (for sharing),” says Ibil, head mixologist of Shangri-La The Fort, Manila. [caption id="attachment_183399" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The Daily.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_183400" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Shoeshine at 30th.[/caption] Since its inception, The Back Room received multiple recognitions, such as 50 Asia’s 50 Best Bar 2019; Best Hotel Bars in the World — The Legend Awards 2020 by Departures Magazine; 51 Asia’s Best Bars 2021; Best Bar in the Philippines by Travel + Leisure Asia’s Best Awards 2022; and most recently 75 Asia’s Best Bars 2023. The Back Room also has its homemade gin — Bee’s Knees — locally made which pays tribute to popular Philippine ingredients: dalandan, malunggay and sampaguita. The post Homemade gin with a hint of malunggay and sampaguita appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone’s ‘Poor Things’ wins Venice top prize
The Golden Lion in Venice was awarded Saturday to a hilarious and shockingly explicit reworking of Frankenstein, "Poor Things", starring Emma Stone as a sex-mad reanimated corpse, which had festival-goers in stitches. An ongoing Hollywood strike may have robbed Venice of its usual bevy of stars, but its strong selection showed the world's oldest film festival was still a launchpad for Oscar contenders. "Poor Things" by Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos was labeled an "instant classic" by critics. It looks set to repeat the success of his 2018 film "The Favourite", which won two awards in Venice on its way to a string of international prizes. Stone plays Bella, a woman brought back to life with an infant's brain by a mad scientist (Willem Dafoe). Accepting the award, Lanthimos said the film "couldn't exist without another incredible creature, Emma Stone", who could not appear due to the strike. The film features some of the most explicit sex ever seen in an A-list Hollywood film as Stone's character discovers -- and very much enjoys -- her sexuality. It brilliantly skewers the way men try and fail to control the innocent Bella -- particularly a rogueish Mark Ruffalo -- triggering bursts of spontaneous applause and riotous laughter from audiences in Venice. The post Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone’s ‘Poor Things’ wins Venice top prize appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Walang (Mag)saysay
During one of the many well-publicized Senate hearings in the aftermath of the infamous Mamasapano Massacre in 2015 that led to the murder of 44 Special Action Force troopers, one Miriam Coronel-Ferrer was grilled by an irate Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano. Coronel-Ferrer was then chairman of the Aquino Government’s peace panel that had signed an accord with the Muslim rebels on the establishment of a Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, an agreement widely regarded as having signed away a lot of our Republic’s prerogatives in favor of armed Islamic insurgents. Senator Cayetano demanded to know from Coronel-Ferrer why the government dragged its feet in providing artillery support and reinforcements to the trapped policmen, to which she notoriously replied, “The policy of the government is to first negotiate with the armed groups fighting with state forces.” To this, Cayetano replied, “No government in the world negotiates with terrorists.” Coronel-Ferrer’s response left most in the Senate gallery dumbfounded when she said, “I know of no such policy.” Yet here she is, one of this year’s Magsaysay Awardees. Ironic it is that an award founded in honor of one of the best-loved Presidents this country has ever had, would be given to an underling of someone who would become one of the most hated in Philippine history (after a string of scandals such as the Luneta hostage fiasco, “Yolanda” and Dengvaxia, among many others). Even more ironic is that she is being given the award for her supposed “transformative power of non-violent strategies,” when all that she succeeded in transforming was forty-four elite police personnel into corpses due to the appalling display of violence of a rebel movement she greatly enabled. She also almost transformed our Republic into a dismembered state; thank heavens the backlash from the massacre caused the agreement she brokered to be shelved in favor of one much less onerous to the Philippines. But what is to expected of an award-giving body co-opted by Yellowtards, as a quick look at the roster of its chairman and trustees will readily reveal. Composed of men and women with strong ties either to Mrs. Cory Aquino and/or her anointed successor, Fidel Ramos, these people either served in the Cabinet or important agencies of one or the other President; or had enjoyed — or are still enjoying — high positions in big corporations supportive of the Aquino Yellow narrative. So it should be of no wonder that these denizens of the same echo chamber would exhibit the proclivity, remarkably endemic to the Aquino clique, of giving awards and accolades to each other. As if that would somehow compensate for the fact that the narrative that has kept them in power for more than 30 years had been totally demolished. Just note the decorations given to Leni after she lost, from fellowships to doctor’s degrees honoris causa to trophies for this and that dubious achievement. Such a pity that the Magsaysay Awards should so decline in prestige. It used to be an important recognition for Asian leaders, counting among its Filipino awardees the likes of Francisca Aquino, Rosa Rosal, F. Sionil Jose, Lino Brocka, Dr. Fe del Mundo, Nick Joaquin, James Reuter, Bienvenido Lumbera and Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Yet, like many others touched by the Yellow reverse-Midas touch, what used to be gold is turning to crap, with Yellow stalwarts Jesse Robredo, Sheila Coronel, Conchita-Carpio Morales, Haydee Yorac and Hilario Davide among the list. Cringy, especially since among those who have previously received the honor were the Dalai Lama, Thai Premier Anand Panyarachun, Mochtar Lubis, Akira Kurosawa, Ravi Shankar and Mother Teresa. To use an overworn cliché, President Magsaysay would be turning in his grave to know that his eponymous award has become another way for those in the same political group to pat themselves on the back. Its value has depreciated and, if the trend is not arrested, it will soon be irrelevant, a case of walang saysay. The post Walang (Mag)saysay appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Emma Stone stars in sex-mad Frankenstein-like tale at Venice
With Emma Stone as a sex-mad reanimated corpse in "Poor Things" and Wes Anderson presenting his take on Roald Dahl, the Venice Film Festival was taken on some wild rides on Friday. "Poor Things" was set to premiere on the Lido without its star to light up the red carpet, due to the ongoing Hollywood strike barring actors from publicity work. Rumors at the festival suggest the horror-comedy, in which Stone plays a woman brought back from the dead by a mad scientist, could be an early awards frontrunner. Its Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos has established himself as one of the most imaginative and daring filmmakers of his generation. His previous film "The Favourite", also starring Stone, won the Jury Prize in Venice in 2018 and best actress for Olivia Colman, paving the way to her Oscar triumph. "Poor Things" is among 23 movies competing for the top prize, the Golden Lion, to be awarded on September 9 by a jury including directors Damien Chazelle, Jane Campion and last year's winner Laura Poitras. Anderson's Dahl Meanwhile, another indie darling, Wes Anderson, was feted in Venice with a lifetime achievement award. He presented "The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar", a 40-minute film based on a short story by beloved children's author Roald Dahl. It is one of four Dahl adaptations the whimsical director has made for Netflix featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, Ben Kingsley, Dev Patel and Ralph Fiennes. As always, there is a meticulous, chocolate-box feel to Anderson's film. "It's more like a little theatrical presentation that we found a way to film," Anderson told reporters. The director, who previously adapted Dahl's "Fantastic Mr Fox", said he was strongly against moves to alter the author's books for "sensitivity" reasons. Asked about recent revisions to Dahl's books to remove character descriptions like "fat" and "crazy", Anderson said: "No one who is not an author should be modifying someone's book." He added: "I understand the motivation for it, but I'm in the school where, when the piece is finished... the audience participates in it, we know it, so when it's done, it's done." Strikes and waivers Also premiering on Friday was "The Promised Land" starring Mads Mikkelsen, described by The Hollywood Reporter as a "gripping historical epic" about a low-born soldier seeking to better himself. Mikkelsen was able to attend the festival for the Danish film, but Venice has lost out on several star appearances due to the actor and writer strike in Hollywood, which is primarily over pay and the potential threat of AI. Some independent films have been given a waiver, including Michael Mann's "Ferrari" which premiered on Thursday, allowing lead actor Adam Driver to attend. But others such as Stone and Bradley Cooper (for his Leonard Bernstein biopic "Maestro") are not coming, costing the studios valuable PR shots of their stars arriving by gondola and working the red carpet. Still to come in Venice are new movies by Sofia Coppola ("Priscilla" about Elvis Presley's wife) and David Fincher ("The Killer" starring Michael Fassbender and Tilda Swinton). There are also out-of-competition premieres for controversial directors Woody Allen ("Coup de Chance") and Roman Polanski ("The Palace"). The post Emma Stone stars in sex-mad Frankenstein-like tale at Venice appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Golden Globes to air January 7 under new ownership
Next year's Golden Globes will take place on 7 January, the organization that bestows the entertainment awards said Thursday, in the wake of intense scrutiny over accusations of corruption and racism in recent years. Nominations are set to be revealed on 11 December, the organization added in a statement. The combined film and television awards have long been considered among the most prestigious in Hollywood after the Oscars. But the Golden Globes have lost their luster among many in the industry after The Los Angeles Times in 2021 revealed the bleak backstage operations of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, which made up the contest's jury. In particular, the report said the group did not have a single Black member at the time, and detailed accounts of HFPA voters receiving lavish gifts from entertainment studios whose products they were voting on. In 2022, the historically raucous ceremony was shunned by Hollywood's elite and was not broadcast on television. Since then, the Globes have launched several image reform measures, including involving a more diverse group of voters and instituting a crackdown on ethics violations. The changes brought the ceremony back to live television in January 2023, and despite several notable red-carpet absences, the number of stars in attendance -- including Steven Spielberg, Michelle Yeoh, and Brad Pitt -- suggested that Hollywood was ready to move on from the scandal. Still, the show recorded its worst-ever ratings, with only 6.3 million viewers. As part of its reforms, the Golden Globes have been bought out by private investors, effectively shuttering the 80-year-old HFPA. As part of Thursday's announcement, the Globes said it had formed a new committee that would now be "responsible for selecting, ratifying and accrediting journalists as voting members" of the Globes' jury. The nine-member committee will "uphold and enforce rigorous standards and practices for the voting body," the statement added. The committee will include Tim Gray, veteran entertainment journalist from Variety magazine, who was named vice president of the Golden Globes. The post Golden Globes to air January 7 under new ownership appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»