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Filipino-born drag artist Mac, who goes by the stage name Taylor Sheesh, recently made headlines when she took on the persona of pop superstar Taylor Swift at a mini concert in Quezon City.
The live show, dubbed “We Want Eras Tour in MNL,” was organized as part of Filo Swifties campaign to bring the Eras Tour to the Philippine shores.
During the event, Taylor Sheesh channeled her inner Taylor Swift with mind-blowing performances of hits such as the mystical “Willow,” the infectious “Bejeweled,” and the heart-tugging “Enchanted.”
Photo by Instagram/heymacyou
One of the event highlights was when she reenacted the viral performance of Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood,” when Taylor Swift defended a fan from a security guard.
“Thank you @swiftiesphl and @ilovetrinoma for inviting [me] and making this event iconic. To my dancers, thank you so much,” the drag queen expressed her appreciation in an Instagram post.
“To all my fellow Swifties, thank you so much for your energy last night. See you all at the next mall tours!” she added.
Catch Taylor Sheesh’s upcoming gigs by following her on Instagram and Twitter.
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Looking for a new book to read? There’s a new novel hot off the press, and if you’re a fan of horror or speculative fiction, you’re going to want to sit down for this.
“Head by the Ceiling” is a horror novel by Anthony Shieh that follows the story of a group of employees at a network company who are hounded by a series of murders. As fear takes hold, they begin to suspect that these horrors are far from coincidental. Each chilling event brings them closer to a horrifying truth — one far more sinister than they could have ever imagined.
The Beat Asia got in touch with the Filipino-Taiwanese-Dutch author to pick his brain on his inspiration and influences for this bone-chilling tale. This marks the author’s debut in the genre, which he described as a “homecoming” after publishing a string of successful diverse books including “Death of a Loved One in the Time of Pandemic,” one of Philippine Inquirer’s Noteworthy Books of 2024; the #1 Amazon Bestselling BL (BoysLove) romance “White Mocha Americano,”and “VERGE” — a poetry collection about life at its breaking point.
A true genre chameleon, Anthony enjoys experimenting with his writing and finding new ways to tell a story. But his latest book is a fulfillment of a childhood dream, having written his first horror story at only fourteen years old! The author expressed that while his previous novels explored different genres and improved his craft, they were also stepping stones that led him back to where he truly belonged: in the dark and mysterious world of the horror genre.
In our latest exclusive, we’re diving into Anthony’s current magnum opus, his processes and influences, as well as how the genre has shaped his career as a storyteller.
On Returning to Horror
Despite being his debut, “Head by the Ceiling” wasn’t Anthony’s first brush with the genre. The author had been a fan of all things horror at a young age, fostered by a love for horror films such as “The Exorcist” and “Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter.” His mother often brought him to their local video stores to rent Filipino horror movies like “Aswang” and “Shake Rattle and Roll,” which exposed him to the local tales. It was from there that his interest in the genre took root and led him to write his very first horror story, “Tormented,” when he was only fourteen years old. However, the author revealed an intriguing fact about where his fascination with the supernatural also comes from.
“Beyond film, it also comes from personal experience. I have a 'third eye,' which opened when I was four years old. The first elemental I ever saw was a Kapre perched atop a coconut tree on Makiling St. At first, I mistook it for the PLDT Radio Light, but then I noticed two fiery red dots…eyes, glaring back at me. As I focused, its full silhouette emerged. This experience later became a key influence in my debut horror novel.”
Anthony also revealed that he’s gifted in palm reading, a skill passed down from his Oma in Taiwan to his mom — who also reads tarot — and then to him. It’s clear to see that the writer’s relationship with the genre is deeply rooted in his culture and family history, and how these ties to the unseen have shaped his perspective and his writing.
Photo from Anthony Shieh
When asked about his definition of horror, Anthony replied, “Horror has always been part of our lives. It’s stitched into our history, our fears, and even our Filipino DNA. From oppression and war to crime and the everyday dangers we face, it lingers in the background. It’s not just a genre, it’s something we all experience in different ways. More than just scares, horror reflects the world around us. It brings to light our anxieties, struggles, and hard truths. People don’t always give it the credit it deserves, but horror is one of the strongest forms of storytelling. It makes us feel, question, and see the world in a way no other genre can.”
With the release of his latest novel, Anthony likens it to a homecoming as he finally wrote a story that fully embraces horror — a genre he had always felt destined to write. It features LGBTQ+ characters, explores themes of friendship, love, and family, and even draws inspiration from Japanese folklore, yokai, and films like “Final Destination,” “Evil Dead,” “Pulse,” and “It Follows.”
“‘Head by the Ceiling’ is the realization of that dream,” he told The Beat Asia. “It's an emotional rollercoaster with immersive world-building and intense, terrifying moments. One reviewer called it ‘a gory & nightmarish horror with great pacing, non-linear storytelling, and vivid, eloquent writing that adds to its cinematic feel.’ That’s exactly what I strive for: stories that play out like a film in your mind, pulling you in frame by frame.”
On Reinventing Storytelling
Debuting his first horror novel is a true milestone, indeed, but Anthony has been known for his craft for years, having released both prose and poetry books that showcased his versatility, wit, and talent as a writer.
“Horror is my tribe, but I’ve always been the kind of writer who likes to explore. I’ve dabbled in memoir, dramedy fiction, and poetry. Always experimenting, always testing my limits. Each writing has pushed me to try something new, but no matter how much I explore, I always circle back to horror. Every story I’ve written has been part of that journey, pushing me further, sharpening my voice, and ultimately reinforcing that this is where I’m meant to be.”
“I love writing both [prose and poetry], but at the core, I’m a novelist,” he added. “Poetry lets me capture emotions in snapshots; raw, introspective, and sometimes cathartic. But novels? That’s where I thrive. I love building worlds, shaping characters, and letting stories unfold in their own time. There’s something about the long form that allows me to dive deeper, to really explore the layers of a character or theme. A novel feels like a journey, and I love bringing readers along for the ride.”
Anthony also gave us a glimpse into his brainstorming and planning process, which is almost as intriguing as his palm reading talent! The author admitted to having taken inspiration fromdreams and how he would sometimes wake in the middle of the night to jot down the details, which has shaped many of his stories, including “Head by the Ceiling.”
“My writing process is structured yet flexible. Some days, I focus on one novel, and the next, I might feel drawn to another. It all depends on my mood,” he shared. “While many say you should write daily, I disagree. I believe you should write when you feel like writing. Otherwise, you’ll just end up hitting the backspace button.”
The author also listed some impressive influences that have shaped his craft through the years. He admitted to gravitating towards novelizations and screenplays more, finding inspiration in works like “Alien” by Alan Dean Foster, Fede Álvarez's reimagination of “Evil Dead,” and Stephen King’s “Carrie.”
He also listed some local favorites, explaining how horror in the Philippines is deeply rooted in culture and folklore. He expressed how he has so much respect for authors such as Dean Francis Alfar, Kenneth Yu, and Yvette Tan, whose passion and dedication to Philippine folklore and realism have contributed immensely to the reason why it’s still alive and thriving today.
With a new book just released and a whole lot more in store — including his participation in an upcoming anthology and two more novels in the works (you heard it here first!), Anthony is shaping the Philippine horror fiction landscape one chilling story at a time, and we simply can’t wait to devour more of them!
You can get “Head by the Ceiling” at National Book Store (NBS) branches nationwide and online at Anvil Publishing and NBS website, Shopee, and Lazada shops. You can also learn more about Anthony Shieh by visiting his official website and following him on Facebook and Instagram for updates on upcoming events and releases.
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Missed out on EXO member D.O.’s first solo fan concert, “Bloom” in Manila last year? No worries, because he’s set to return to Manila this August 16, 2025, for his second Asia concert tour, “DO It!”
D.O. will be performing in nine cities across Asia for his second Asia concert tour from July to October, beginning in Seoul, to be followed by Taipei, Jakarta, Manila, Singapore, Malaysia, Macau, Bangkok, and will be concluding in Tokyo. More cities and dates will be announced in the future.
D.O.’s Manila stop will be handled by concert organizer Wilbros Live, who also handled his first concert in Manila a year ago. Ticketing details and more have not been revealed yet, so stay tuned for more announcements!
D.O.: EXO member, Solo Artist, and Critically Acclaimed Actor
Doh Kyungsoo, most famously known as D.O., first debuted as a vocalist of K-Pop boy group EXO in 2012. He, as part of the group, went on to release chart-topping hits such as “Growl,” “Call Me Baby,” “Ko Ko Bop,” “Tempo,” and “Love Shot.” He debuted as a solo artist in 2021 with his first extended play, “Empathy.”
Apart from his singing career, D.O. is also a renowned actor, with his leading roles in K-dramas such as “100 Days My Prince” (2018), and “Bad Prosecutor” (2022), and roles in movies like “Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds” (2017), “Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days” (2018), “Swing Kids” (2018), “The Moon” (2023), and “Secret: Untold Melody” (2025).
D.O., along with fellow EXO members Xiumin and Kai, are set to hold solo fan concerts in Manila this year, with Xiumin performing at the New Frontier Theater in May and Kai at the Araneta Coliseum in July.
For more information and updates, follow Wilbros Live on their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages. Follow D.O. on his official Instagram account here.
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In a world where art often bridges the tangible and the transcendent, Jezzel Wee’s works are experiences rather than mere objects. Drawing inspiration from shifting landscapes, the organic beauty of nature, and the rich artistic legacies of both Japanese and Filipino cultures, her work is a seamless fusion of intricate patterns and natural textures that transform clay into immersive, interactive installations that invite touch, movement, and exploration.
Rooted in tradition while also deeply contemporary, Jezzel Wee’s ceramics are a story of noticing the small details and finding inspiration in the cliché.
In our latest artist spotlight, Jezzel Wee talks about her journey into ceramics, learning from masters, and leaving a message of hope through her work.
What led you to pursue ceramics as a medium?
I like the tactile quality of clay, and I was also drawn to the process of ceramics. It is very tedious, and it has risks, but at the same time, it has high rewards.
I learned that you learned your craft from a Japanese ceramic artist. Can you share your journey in learning the craft?
I learned from Ryoji Matsumiya, owner and potter of Tsugaru Kanayamayaki in Aomori, Japan. In Tsugaru Kanayamayaki, they process their own clay, fire climbing (noborigama) and anagama wood kilns, and have studios that focus on the slab technique, wheel throwing technique, slip cast technique, jigger and jolly technique, and pressure mold technique.
I was fortunate to have done and learned most of the techniques of production in Tsuguru Kanayamayaki. They also trusted me to make designs for them, I had to learn what designs were appealing to the Japanese market.
The biggest challenge for me was when they assigned me to be their chief designer. One of the last projects I made for them was the lamp design production for Hoshino Resorts in Aomoriya, Misawa, and Aomori, Japan.
Strict discipline and respect for the art and craft are needed.
Who or what are your biggest influences in your work?
I cannot name a specific person who influences my work because all my mentors, potter friends, and artist friends inspire me to do well in my work. It may sound cliché, but nature and my surroundings have the biggest influence on my work.
How would you describe your style of aesthetic in ceramics?
I think my style/aesthetic in ceramics is a blend of Japanese and Filipino patterns and influences.
You find inspiration in the complexities of organic forms and relate them to changing landscapes. Can you share specific examples of natural elements that have significantly influenced your recent works?
For the “Liberating the Chawan” show last 2022 in Pinto Art Museum, most of my works were inspired from growing moss and marine life. Another example is my work for “Weighing Seeds, Pulling Through” at Gravity Art Space, the installation was inspired from Kapok pods and seeds that I often see when I walk around UP Campus.
I like the idea on how nature can present itself in a broad perspective and as we spend time immersing ourselves, we notice the small details that completes the whole. I guess those characteristics significantly influence my work.
How did your involvement in the Art Fair PH 2025 come about?
It started when Eya Beldia and I were having a conversation about an exhibition that I wanted to do. Ms. Dawn Atienza of Tin-aw Art Projects and Eya Beldia told me last September that they proposed the idea to Art Fair PH 2025 and got chosen for their special projects.
What does it mean to you to have been a part of this event?
It meant that I could show another perspective or way to appreciate ceramics as an art form.
Can you describe your work, “Pagbulong”?
“Pagbulong” is a site-specific ceramic art installation where the viewer is encouraged to hold and engage with the pieces.
Each ceramic doll is a bell that they can gently shake after they whisper their wishes. As they hold and shake the ceramic doll, a ringing sound will be heard, and other dolls will resonate the same sound.
What motivated you to create interactive art, and how do you think it enhances the connection between the artwork and the viewer?
For the past few years, my works have always been interactive and immersive; I wanted to create a space where viewers are invited to engage with the work. I think I want to share my experiences with the viewers on how I view the world.
The tactile or the sense of touch grounds us to be at the present, the sound being produced prompts us to pay attention to the work or what’s in front of us. I think that the time spent with the work creates this intimate connection between the work and the viewer.
What did you hope to convey to the viewers through your exhibition, “Pagbulong”?
I hoped that they had the time to slow down and take the opportunity to say wishes for themselves, for others, or even our country. To realize that each and every one of us carry that wish or hope for things to be better.
How do you see your work evolving after Art Fair Philippines?
My work will always be grounded in creating experiences for the viewers, to connect with themselves and be more self-aware. I think I will explore more on how to create site-specific works that will engage viewers.
Do you have any upcoming collaborations or exhibitions your audience can look forward to?
As of now, the bulk of the preparation was for Art Fair Philippines. Maybe a few group exhibitions in the 3rd or 4th quarter of the year.
Learn more about Jezzel Wee and her works by following her on Instagram.
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The West yearns for more Filipino words in their dictionaries.
The Oxford English Dictionary has recently added 11 new Filipino words to their Philippine English category. This addition includes the untranslatable word to express a feeling of intense cuteness aggression, “gigil.”
The Oxford English Dictionary describes “gigil” as both a noun and an adjective; as a noun, the dictionary says it’s “an intense feeling caused by anger, eagerness, or the pleasure of seeing someone or something cute or adorable, typically manifested by the tight clenching of hands, gritting of the teeth, trembling of the body, or the pinching or squeezing of the person or thing causing this emotion.”
As for the adjective, Oxford Dictionary describes it as an emotion felt by a person “overwhelmed by an intense feeling caused by anger, eagerness, or the pleasure of seeing someone or something cute or adorable.”
Aside from “gigil,” the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) added 10 other Filipino words to the Philippine English category—totaling to eight (8) new words and three (3) added definitions to existing entries. Here are the other words that have been added:
CR
(noun) a toilet; a lavatory; comfort room.
Kababayan
(noun) A fellow Filipino; one’s fellow Filipino. A person from the same Philippine region or town as another.
(noun) A small, sweet cake, similar to a muffin, typically yellow in color, in the shape of a salakot.
Lumpia
(noun) In East and Southeast Asian cookery: any of various types of spring roll, typically consisting of a very thin pancake filled with minced meat, seafood, or vegetables, rolled into a cylinder (and sometimes deep-fried) and served with a dipping sauce.
Pinoy (This was added in 2006 and modified in March 2025.)
(noun) A (usually male) native or inhabitant of the Philippines; a person of Filipino descent.
(adjective) Of, belonging to, or relating to the Philippines or Filipinos.
Salakot
(noun) A type of lightweight Filipino hat traditionally worn by farmers as protection against the weather, typically domed or conical in shape, with a wide brim and often having a spiked or ornamental finial at the tip of the crown.
Sando
(noun) A sleeveless garment worn under or instead of a shirt; a vest.
Thomasite
(noun) An American teacher in the Philippines during the period of American occupation (1899=1946); esp. one belonging to the first group of teachers who arrived on the U.S. Army Transport Thomas in 1901, tasked with establishing a new public school system, teaching basic education, training Filipino teachers, using English as the primary language of instruction.
Videoke
(noun) A form of entertainment popular in bars, at parties, etc., in which a person sings the vocal line of a popular song to the accompaniment of a pre-recorded backing tape while following the lyrics which appear on a screen in time with the music. Also, the equipment used for this.
Load
(noun) Credit purchased for a pay-as-you-go mobile phone.
Terror
(adjective) A teacher that’s strict, harsh, or demanding.
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The Beat Manila’s Up and Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from the Philippines, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and to promote the music they (and us too!) would love for the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at [email protected] or slide through our DMs on FacebookorInstagram!
It’s always thrilling to see new names appear on the Top OPM (Original Pinoy Music) Artists chart, and we’re here to tell you about one rising singer-songwriter that should be on your radar.
Currently holding the title of #1 Top OPM Artist on Spotify Philippines, Earl Agustin has become the most-streamed OPM artist in the country for the first time, and the first Filipino artist in history to reach the Top 50 on the Global Spotify chart. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to his talent and steady rise in the industry.
The singer-songwriter from Mindanao is known for his retro-pop jamssuch as “Tibok,” an original love song that once topped several music charts in the country, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music; as well as “Dalangin” and “Dito Sa’kin," which are currently at #9 and #37 on the Spotify Top 50 PH chart, respectively (as of Mar. 31, 2025). The rising artist also holds an impressive social media following with a combined follower count of 369.4K on TikTok and Instagram as of writing.
The Beat Asia sat down with the musician to get to know more about his musical roots, his writing process, and what he intends to achieve in his burgeoning musical career. We also got the scoop on his current #1 hit and how the song was actually inspired by a real-life experience! Earl talks more about his clever artistic choices for the track in our latest exclusive.
Hi Earl! How did you get started with doing music?
I actually started writing music during the pandemic. But before that, my dad used to train Drum and Lyre corps in schools, and I happened to join one in grade school. I guess that was my first exposure to music.
In high school, I enrolled in a Special Performing Arts (SPA) program and studied visual arts for four years. My friends at the time were all musicians, and it was around that time that I started picking up instruments, learning to sing and play guitar. I was 16 or 17 when I realized I could really sing and do music.
During the pandemic, I got involved in the [music] community. I met an artist on Facebook sometime around 2020 to 2021, and I really liked their stuff. From there, I learned about virtual gigs and would often join in. That's when I also started to post covers on TikTok, Facebook, and sometimes on YouTube.
Cool! Did you learn to play instruments on your own?
Most of it was self-taught. I enrolled in guitar summer classes, but it was a beginner's course, so most of the stuff I was taught there I was already aware of. But I suppose that was my most formal training.
Before the pandemic, did you ever consider pursuing music as a career?
No, actually. I was studying AB Communications in college, so my expected trajectory was to be in the news or media. But during my internship around 2022, I was discovered by Viva’s (Viva Artist Agency) A&R through one of my TikTok covers. So, after I graduated, I quickly pursued it.
I don’t think a lot of people get the opportunity to get scouted by a big company like Viva, so I gave it a chance.
And you came all the way from Mindanao! How was the experience of transitioning to a new place and pursuing this unexpected path?
It’s big. It was definitely a huge transition for me because I used to live in a city where original music didn’t really thrive. The music scene there is mostly cover bands, so to transition into living in a place where original compositions are valued, it’s a big thing! Plus, there’s me being Bisaya and having to learn the language. I mean, I could speak Tagalog well, but there are still some cultural differences.
Let’s talk more about your music. Have you already established your signature sound? How would you describe it?
I think it’s safe to say that I’ve found it. Two years ago, I was struggling to really establish a sound for myself because I’ve always liked R&B, and it has always resonated with me. But it was with my first single with Vicor Music that I started my journey to finding the sound I wanted to produce and sustain as a brand, which is the Retro Pop-Soul — or makalumang tunog na R&B(vintage sounding R&B).
My music is also very influenced by artists like Silk Sonic, VST & Company, and Apo Hiking’s Society. It’s a mix of the Western Motown sound with OPM.
What inspires you to write songs?
The songs that I write are mostly love songs. I love love. I love writing about it, and it became a goal for me as a songwriter to write about that shared human experience of love.
Speaking of love songs, congratulations on your #1 hit “Tibok.” How does it feel that it has gotten so much attention despite being released in 2023? Did you ever expect it to blow up?
Absolutely not! Among the songs I’ve written, it’s actually the one I thought wouldn’t be popular with the masses. It’s super wordy compared to the other songs I wrote. Parang mas commercial yung iba, pang-masa (My other songs are more commercial, more mass appealing), so I didn’t expect it would resonate with a lot of people. But masaya 'yung feeling (I feel great about it).
It’s a testimony that when you’re just really honest about what you write, people resonate with it more. I think this is the most honest song I've written and the realest I’ve been. I believe that’s what contributed to its success.
Can you tell us a bit about what the song is about and what inspired you to write it?
It’s not a happy love song. It’s a song about mixed feelings and emotions. I had this experience where I had a crush on somebody, and then we were just talking until we faded into nothing. That’s exactly what I was trying to say in the song.
If you listen to it, it starts [out with a happy vibe]. Kikiligin ka (you’ll feel the butterflies), but towards the middle and end of the song, the trajectory goes down. The uncertainty kicks in, which is when you start asking yourself if they have feelings for you or if they like you back.
For the last part of the song, I chose to do a fade-out. It’s an artistic choice because it represents what happened in real life — how we just faded into nothing. The song captures the raw emotions of what was really happening at that time, asking: 'Where is this going?'
When composing, what comes first: music or lyrics?
It depends. Most of the time, when I’m doing the most random things in the house, that’s when the melodies come to my head. There are also times when I thought of a phrase that’s nice, or I read something, and I feel the urge to write about it. But mostly, it’s music first, based on my experience.
Now with a few hits under your belt, how does it feel to be deemed as one of the top acts in OPM right now?
Grabe, it’s surreal! I can’t believe it. In all honesty, I never dreamed about being on top among these amazing artists. Just releasing songs was my victory. That was my definition of success.
But now, being on this list filled with amazing artists and musicians,sobrang surreal ang pakiramdam (It feels unbelievable), but I don’t want to get used to the feeling of being on top. Life is like a wheel, after all. Sometimes you’re up, and sometimes you’re down. I feel really, really blessed. This doesn’t happen often to people like me.
Can you tell us about your most memorable performance and why?
I have a lot! *laughs* But one of my favorite gigs was the one we did in Nasugbu, Batangas, with Amiel Sol.
At that time, I didn’t expect the crowd to sing along to my songs. But the moment I stepped on stage, I was shocked! Everyone was so warm and welcoming, and they were singing my songs. It’s a big thing for me.
What do you love most about being a musician or performer?
I think what I love the most about it is the effect of music on people. I really love performing for people, and there’s this unexplainable joy when you hear music — that feeling music can provoke in a person.
When you play for people, you get to connect with them. It doesn’t even matter if the song is in English, Tagalog, or Bisaya. Whatever language it is, it connects people in a way that is special.
Do you have any dream collaborations?
For sure, Anderson Paak and maybe Jacob Collier. For local artists, Dionela, Arthur Nery, and Zack Tabudlo.
From left: Earl Agustin, Arthur Nery, and Amiel Sol | Photo from Facebook/Earl Agustin
After peaking at number one, do you still have goals you want to achieve as an artist?
I guess the goal right now is to release more songs and cement my name in OPM, to leave my legacy as a songwriter. I want to be known as somebody who wrote real and honest songs about love or anything else.
Is there anything we should look forward to from you this year?
I have a lot of things prepared this year compared to the last two years, starting with a new single. There’s other stuff I can’t say yet, but they’ll come out this year. Also, hopefully, I’ll be able to do more gigs and music festivals.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. You can follow Earl Agustin’s musical journey by keeping up with his TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.
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Get ready theatre fans, because Dear Evan Hansen is finally coming to Manila — And yes, You Will Be Found in the audience.
After years of waiting (and countless “Waving Through a Window” covers), GMG Productions has announced the Tony and Grammy-winning musicalwill make its Philippine debut in September 2025 at The Theatre at Solaire, bringing its heart-wrenching story and soaring anthems to the stage.
Fans of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul’s heart-wrenching score (“Disappear,” “You Will Be Found”) can now experience the Manila run of the UK touring production live and in full theatrical glory.
“Filipino audiences have been asking for Dear Evan Hansen for years, and we’re beyond excited to finally bring it to Manila,” said Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “The story, music, and message resonate deeply, and we can’t wait for Filipino fans to experience it live.”
The show follows Evan Hansen, a socially anxious high schooler who stumbles into a lie that spirals beyond his control. First staged in Washington, D.C., in 2015 before its Broadway debut in 2016, "Dear Evan Hansen" went on to win Best Musical at the 2017 Tony Awards, along with a Best Actor win for Ben Platt.
Tickets officially go on sale Apr. 15, 2025 via TicketWorld. If you want early access, UnionBank cardholders and GMG waitlist members can grab pre-sale tickets from Apr. 8 to 14, 2025here.
Location: The Theatre at Solaire, 1 Asean Avenue Entertainment City Tambo, Paranaque City 1701 Metro Manila
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Known as the largest convenience store chain in the world, 7-Eleven has become a staple in the lives of many Filipinos. You can find their stores every few blocks across the country, cementing their role as the people’s trusted kapitbahays (neighbors) who serve and support their everyday needs.
7-Eleven’s in-house coffee brand, City Café (CC), is a testament to that commitment, providing every Filipino with their favorite coffee fix to get them through their hectic daily schedules. Last Mar. 26, the brand launched an exciting new era as they welcomed a new member to their family, who will help them in ushering in new and exciting things to your coffee experience.
“More than just an establishment, what we really want to be is a companion wherever, whenever. If 7-Eleven is your trusted neighbor, then City Café is your bestie, your reliable go-to that’s always there to keep you fueled day and night,” said Valerie Uy, Marketing Communications Division Head of 7-Eleven Philippines.“Over the years, we’ve seen coffee culture evolve in amazing ways, especially here in the Philippines. We’ve seen more young people embrace coffee, experiment with flavors, and make it a central part of their lifestyle. We’re so excited to introduce something new today, and we are sure that you’re going to love what we have in store for you this year.”
City Café plays a key part in how 7-Eleven builds brand love, and this year, they’re giving you more reasons to enjoy coffee at the most affordable price and premium quality alongside their newest ambassador, Darren Espanto. The singer and actor stepped up on stage and officially revealed himself as CC’s newest bestie in a launch event at 7-Eleven’s 4,000th store located in Newport Circle, Pasay City. The event was filled with DARRENatics, 7-Eleven executives, and friends from the media as they welcomed the charismatic singer to the CC family.
Photo by The Beat Asia
In line with the celebration, City Café also announced a special promo. Coffee lovers can enjoy any small City Café drink (hot or iced) for only P30 until Apr. 1!
“I feel like I drink coffee so much that I’ve manifested a project like this,” Darren said when asked how he felt after being chosen as the new brand ambassador. “Everything happens so fast, and I just feel so grateful!”
The actor also shared how he always started his day with coffee and was an avid drinker, relying on the beverage to keep him energized through his busy schedules.
“At the start of my day, coffee po agad (I have coffee first thing)! I usually enjoy it iced. When the days are long because of work, I try to pace my coffee drinking if I need to get energized again. Usually before showtime, or if I have stuff to do afterward.”
As part of the celebrations, Darren also got to play Barista for the day and made coffee for some of his supportive fans.
Photo by The Beat Asia
For those who live an active lifestyle like Darren, City Café provides a variety of blends that can keep you fueled throughout the day or night. These include Americano, French Vanilla Cappuccino, Mochaccino, and Spanish Latte, which you can enjoy iced or hot. For the hot beverages, you can also get a shot of espresso, a Classic Brewed Coffee, or their Signature Hot Chocolate. Iced beverages have standard regular sizes and are priced at P49 (P47 for Americano), while hot drinks can be as low as P30 (small), P45 (medium), and P55 (large) per cup. You can get your coffee from their shiny self-service coffee machines. Just grab a cup, tap your coffee of choice on the screen, and let it brew! Afterward, just pay at the counter, and you’re good to go. It’s that simple!
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When asked how the coffee selection was curated, CC executives replied that it was all based on consumer preferences.
“At 7-Eleven, delighting the customers is at the heart of what we do, and for the CC team, it means actively listening to what the consumers want and keeping up with the trends, ensuring that we deliver high-quality products,” said Sette Bañez, Marketing Communications Section Manager of 7-Eleven Philippines.
“This has been the brand’s approach over the years. The strongest testament to that commitment was the launch of City Café’s Iced Coffee, which was driven by the insight that more and more consumers, especially Gen Zs, prefer their coffee iced. So whatever we do, rest assured it will be guided by and shaped by the consumer’s preferences — from new product launches to exciting promotions.”
Darren also encouraged everyone to try out City Café, because not only is it affordable, it's also premiumcoffee made from 100% Arabica beans. He shared that although a simple black Americano is his go-to coffee drink, he holds an exception for CC’s Spanish Latte and French Vanilla Cappuccino, which he said are his preferred pick-me-up drinks.
“Aside from the taste, it’s a different flavor. Nakaka-happy siya (It makes me happy),” he said.
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From classic brews to trendy new twists, coffee has become more than just a drink but an experience that many people enjoy and look forward to, and CC has much to offer in the next few months with this collaboration.
Charlene Harn, Section manager for Cup Drinks at 7-Eleven Philippines, passionately told us about the projects their coffee brand has launched and how they intend to push the boundaries of Filipinos’ coffee experience further in the coming weeks.
“Starting today until Apr. 1, we are offering as much as a P7 discount on any small City Café drink. On the sustainability side of things, our campaign ‘Good Coffee, Good Habits’ allows you to avail a P5 discount when you bring your tumbler or reusable cup for your coffee,” she said. “But what is next for City Café? We are not here for nothing, we can only go bigger, bolder, stronger, and better! The sky is the limit for City Café. We don’t want to spoil the surprises, but one thing is for sure: with Darren, your kapitbahays, and coffee besties in tow, leveling up your bean-to-cup experience with City Café will always be our priority. Whenever, wherever.”
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To get the latest updates and all the exciting brews to come, follow 7-Eleven Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
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