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Mark your calendars, Filo Carats! K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN’s “Follow Again” concert is heading to the big screens this August, including in Philippine cinemas!
Starting August 1, Filipino fans can get a glimpse of the K-pop sensations' performances at their “Follow Again” encore tour, held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium last April.
According to the official website, the film will feature performances of hit songs such as “Maestro,” as well as unit stages for tracks “Spell,” “LALALI,” and “Cheers to Youth,” captured in cinematic angles with a stunning backdrop of CARAT lightsticks illuminating the venue.
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The concert film will be screened in select SM Cinemas and Ayala Malls Cinemas across the country. You can book tickets starting July 23 via SM Cinema’s website and outlets, SureSeats, or through the film’s official website.
SEVENTEEN has recently made a successful comeback with their compilation album, “17 Is Right Here,” which featured the title track, “Maestro.” Earlier this year, the 13-member group also staged a two-day concert in the Philippines for their “Follow” tour, held at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan.
Make sure to secure your tickets and don’t miss this limited screening, Carats!
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Robinsons Movieworld, through its Premier Cinemas, presents the second season of CineArts, an exclusive cultural cinema experience at Opus Mall and The Mall – NUSTAR that brings world-class performances to Filipino audiences.
In partnership with Trafalgar Releasing, this unique series offers exclusive screenings of opera, ballet, and concert films from London’s Royal Opera House, giving Filipino moviegoers a front-row seat to global icons and an experience to enjoy high culture without leaving the country.
Courtesy of Robinsons Movieworld
Season Two opened with “Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe,” on Sept. 23 and 30, but there are other runs on Oct. 7 and 14, followed by an exceptional lineup of performances from the Royal Ballet and Royal Opera, including “Tosca,” “Cinderella (2024),” “The Nutcracker,” “La Traviata,” “Woolf Works,” “Giselle,” “Siegfried,” and “The Magic Flute.”
Screenings will be held every Tuesday at Opus VIP Cinema and NUSTAR VIP Cinema, where state-of-the-art visuals, surround sound, and plush seating elevate the viewing experience. Ticket prices start from P900.
Here is the schedule for Season Two of CineArts:
Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe – Sept. 23 and 30, Oct. 7, and 14
Royal Opera: Tosca – Nov. 4 and 11
Royal Ballet: Cinderella (2024) – Nov. 18, 25, and Dec. 2
Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker – Dec. 9, 16, 23, and Jan. 13
Royal Opera: La Traviata – Feb. 10, 17, 24, and Mar. 3
Royal Ballet: Woolf Works – Mar. 10, 17, and 24
Royal Ballet: Giselle – Mar. 31, Apr. 7, 14, and 21
Royal Opera: Siegfried – Apr. 28, May 5, 12, and 19
Royal Opera: The Magic Flute – May 26, Jun. 2 and 9
For tickets and full screening details, visit the website here, follow Opus Premier Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram, and NUSTAR Premier Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
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It’s not every day that a Broadway phenomenon lands in your neighborhood cinema. But starting Oct. 1, 2025, Filipino fans will finally get their shot to experience Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s genre-defying musical, on the big screen for a strictly limited one-week run until Oct. 7, 2025. And it’s not just the filmed version you may have streamed on Disney+. This release packs an exclusive prologue titled “Reuniting the Revolution,” featuring fresh interviews with the original cast and creators.
Courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
Timed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the show’s Broadway debut, this cinematic event is more than nostalgia. Filmed at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in June 2016, the production stars Miranda himself as Alexander Hamilton, alongside Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry, Daveed Diggs, Phillipa Soo, and Jonathan Groff.
Directed by Thomas Kail and produced by RadicalMedia, the film captures the raw energy and emotional depth that made Hamilton a Pulitzer Prize-winning, Tony-sweeping phenomenon.
Photo from Instagram/Hamilton Musical
The Philippine release follows earlier rollouts in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.K., and precedes Australia and New Zealand’s November premiere. For Southeast Asian fans, this marks a rare chance to experience the show’s full theatrical power on the big screen, complete with surround sound, communal gasps, and maybe a few tears.
Tickets are expected to sell fast, especially with the buzz surrounding the exclusive content and the limited screening window. Be sure to catch “Hamilton” in select cinemas from Oct. 1 to 7, 2025.
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Step into the world of live theatre with "Standing Ovation," your trusted companion for navigating Asia's vibrant performing arts scene. From the neon-lit streets of Hong Kong to the historic stages of Manila, we're scouring the region to bring you honest, engaging reviews of the most talked-about shows. Whether you're drawn to the flawless elegance of ballet, embarking on a musical journey through moving tunes, or the raw emotion of dramatic plays, let us guide you to the performances that will resonate with you. So grab your playbill and join The Beat Asia as we immerse ourselves in the region's dazzling arts & culture scene. The curtain's rising – let the review begin!
Lately, it’s not just the rains that have been pouring in Manila, but also a wave of theater musicals, turning the season into one of song, dance, and powerful performances.
Earlier this month, the Theater at Solaire presented the Tony Award and Oliver-Award Award-winning Best Musical, “Dear Evan Hansen,” moving Filipino audiences with its touching storyline, inspiring songs, and important messaging.
The stage musical debuted in 2015 with music and lyrics by composing duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman,” “Snow White”), and a book by screenplay writer Steven Levenson (“tick, tick ... BOOM!”). It follows the story of a high school senior with social anxiety who gets mistaken as a close friend of a classmate who dies by suicide, leading him to fabricate a lie that spirals into an unexpected journey of connection, guilt, and self-acceptance. The musical has also been adapted into a movie in 2021, with Ben Platt reprising the role he originated on stage, alongside actors Kaitlyn Dever, Julianne Moore, and Amy Adams.
GMG Productions and ATG Productions joined forces to bring this Broadway hit to the Philippine stage for the first time, which featured the UK Touring Production’s cast and crew. The Beat Asia got to witness the brand-new staging of the beloved musical, and here’s why we believe it’s more than just your average Broadway export.
Photo from Website/Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour
Tears and Truths in ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
One thing that makes “Dear Evan Hansen” stand out among other stage plays is its contemporary relevance, which manifests through its story and modern sound.
If you’re unfamiliar with the story, here’s how it goes: Evan is an anxious high school student longing for a sense of belonging. As advised by his therapist, he writes letters to himself, journaling what made his days good and worth celebrating. When one of these letters is mistaken for a final note from his classmate, Connor Murphy, who has died, his life takes an unexpected turn as he’s pulled into the boy’s grieving family.
Misunderstandings and assumptions stack up one over the other until Evan had woven a lie so intricate that it became impossible to get out of. The fabricated story, however, allowed him to connect with new people, making him feel like he now belonged. As the story unfolds, he becomes torn between telling the truth and losing everything, and maintaining a lie that brings him closer to the life he had always longed for.
This musical explores modern issues like social anxiety, depression, and the role of social media in shaping identity and relationships. The latter, especially, is woven so deeply into the story, showing just how powerful a tool it can be in spreading awareness, providing support, and becoming a bridge for connection. But like a two-edged sword, it was also portrayed as having the power to easily destroy someone’s life or reputation in a single click.
What we love about this show is how it’s direct in its messaging without feeling preachy, and how real and personal it feels. Unlike big, flashy musicals with intricate plotlines and out-of-this-world characters, “Dear Evan Hansen” zooms in on one teenage boy’s struggle with anxiety, loneliness, and wanting to be seen. That simple premise sparked massive conversations beyond the stage about mental health, authenticity, and connection, giving it a social impact and making it a memorable experience for theatergoers.
It may not boast grand sets, large ensembles, or intricate props and backdrops, but its emotional rawness kept audiences engaged. Some notable scenes include the self-pep talks Evan does with an imaginary Connor — especially the one in the second act when he’s forced to face the reality of his accident at the park, and the “Requiem” musical number the Murphys perform, which shows the different ways people deal with grief.
Photo from Website/Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour
Lighting and the projected screens were also utilized well on stage, emphasizing various emotions and providing additional movement like silhouettes walking across the screen while Evan passes through crowded hallways or the projected social media accounts during “You Will Be Found,” demonstrating how Evan’s speech went viral and put him in the spotlight, spiraling deeper into his fabricated story that has now turned into a movement. In his conversations with Connor, the latter is always a step behind him, which allows the spotlight to focus on Evan, all the while giving Connor a muted sheen. From the audience, it makes him look like a ghost or a figment of one’s imagination. Their voices during these scenes also seem to reverberate more, emphasizing the haunting truth.
This production’s emotional core lies in its music, which, ICYDK, won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album in 2018. Throughout the 16 musical numbers, viewers are taken on an emotional journey that starts in loneliness and ends in self-discovery and belonging. It also leans more toward pop than traditional theater tunes, which makes it easier to connect to, especially for younger audiences.
“Waving Through a Window” conveys feelings of being an outsider and longing to make a meaningful connection, while “For Forever” beautifully captures Evan’s deepest desires — to simply make a friend and have the most perfect day together.
There are also anthemic and inspirational tracks like “You Will Be Found,” which emphasizes that no matter how lonely or isolated one feels, there is always someone who will find and support them, and even romantic ballads like “If I Could Tell Her” and “Only Us,” which reflect Evan’s developing relationship with Connor’s sister, Zoe.
Photo from Website/Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour
The current production cast did a remarkable job restaging this iconic show, each actor breathing new life into their character. Sonny Monaghan’s Evan was nothing short of spectacular. While his vocals in the opening song started a little shaky at first, the actor quickly found his footing, his voice soaring as the show progressed. His performance drew real tears during “For Forever,” when Evan fabricates his story about Connor, and again in “Words Fail,” when he finally comes clean about his lies. It was also impressive how closely his tone echoed that of the original Broadway Evan, without ever feeling like an imitation.
Rebecca Mckinnis, as Heidi, delivered an emotional and heartfelt “So Big/So Small,” perfectly capturing the unconditional love of a parent. Her distinctive mix of country twang and rock edge added grit and punch to “Good For You,” making it one of the standout moments of the night. Meanwhile, Tom Dickerson brought natural charisma to Jared, providing a much-needed break between the heavier scenes. His playful “Soda Pop” line — a clever nod to the film K-Pop Demon Hunters — earned plenty of laughs from the audience. Meanwhile, Rhys Hopkins made an impressive professional debut as Connor. Though his role kept him absent for much of the show, he left a lasting mark with his commanding stage presence and powerful vocals. His impressive range had us eager to see what roles he takes on next.
Photo from Website/Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour
If there was one moment that fell short, it was the romantic duet “Only Us,” which lacked some of the tenderness and chemistry we were hoping for. Still, this was a minor dip in what was otherwise a beautifully executed production. With such a gifted cast, the show was moving, heartfelt, and a worthy tribute to the original.
Final Verdict
This limited run is a true gift for Filipino theater enthusiasts, offering not only captivating entertainment but also moments of deep insight and emotional resonance. More than its amazing cast and award-winning music, “Dear Evan Hansen” proved that change can start from somewhere small, like a post on your feed, or on a bigger platform, like a theater’s stage. It also sends the message that you are not alone and that everyone has a place to belong.
Relatable and moving, we highly recommend seeing it while you still can! The show is currently running at the Theater at Solaire until Oct. 5, 2025. You can book your tickets here.
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Standing Ovation reviews here.
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The cast for Netflix’s newest season of “Physical: 100” has now been announced.
In a press release, Netflix revealed the 48 contestants of “Physical: Asia,” the franchise’s first-ever nation-vs-nation showdown. Eight participating countries — South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Türkiye, Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines — will clash in a high-stakes competition of strength, strategy, and teamwork, all in the name of national pride.
Each country is represented by a six-person squad, with a national superstar to lead and embody the competitive spirit of their homeland.
Photo from Website/Netflix
South Korea:
Kim Dong-hyun “Stun Gun” (Ex-UFC Fighter) (Leader)
Yoon Sung-bin (Olympic Skeleton Racer)
Kim Min-jae (Ssireum)
Kim Jae-hong (Amotti) (Winner of Physical: 100 Season 2)
Jang Eun-sil (Women’s Wrestling Athlete) (Physical: 100 alum)
Choi Seung-yeon (CrossFit Asia Champion)
Japan
Okami Yushin (MMA Legend, UFC Asia Record Holder) (Leader)
Itoi Yoshio (Professional Baseball Player)
Nakamura Katsumi (Swimmer)
Hashimoto Soichi (Professional judoka)
Ozaki Nonoka (Amateur Wrestler)
Watanabe Kana (Judo Practitioner)
Australia
Robert Whittaker (Former UFC Middleweight Champion) (Leader)
Alexandra Milne (Fitness Coach, Influencer)
Eddie Williams (Strongman Athlete, Two-time Australia’s Strongest Man Winner)
Dom Tomato (Professional Parkour Athlete)
Eloni Vunakece (Former Professional Rugby League Footballer)
Kayelin van Zyl (CrossFit Athlete, Former Australian Hockey Player)
Philippines
Manny Pacquiao (8-Weight-Class World Champion) (Leader)
Lara Lorraine Deang Liwanag (CrossFit Athlete, 2020 Philippine National Champion)
Mark Mugen Striegl (Mixed Martial Artist, Former UFC Fighter, SEA Games Champion)
Ray Jefferson Querubin (Strongman, Powerlifter, Weightlifter, Multiple-time Philippines’ Strongest Man)
Justin Coveney (Rugby Player for the Philippine Volcanoes)
Robyn Lauren Brown (Track and Field Athlete, 400m Hurdles National Record Holder for the Philippines, Asian Champion 2023)
Thailand
Superbon Singha Mawynn (Muay Thai World Champion) (Leader)
James Rusameekae (Former Volleyball Player)
Sun Kerdkao Wechokittikorn (National Team Rugby Player)
Anucha Yospanya (National Team Wrestler)
Nuannaree Viste Olsen “Ploy” (Muay Thai Coach)
Uracha Teerawanitsan “JaJarr” (CrossFit Athlete and Trainer)
Mongolia
Orkhonbayar Bayarsaikhan (Mongolian Wrestling Champion) (Leader)
Dulguun Enkhbat (Professional 3x3 Basketball Player, Member of the Mongolian National Team)
Lkhagva Ochir Erdene Ochir (Professional Contortionist and Handbalancer)
Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu (Mixed Martial Artist, Competitor in ONE Championship)
Khandsuren Gantogtokh (Professional Volleyball Player, Middle Blocker for the Mongolian National Team)
Adiyasuren Amarsaikhan (Judoka, Competitor in the +78kg Weight Class)
Türkiye
Recep Kara (4-Time Turkish Oil Wrestling Champion) (Leader)
Anil Berk Baki (Extreme Sports Athlete, Sailor, Social Media Personality)
Ali Sofuoglu (Turkish Karateka Specializing in Kata, Olympic Bronze Medalist)
Ogeday Girisken (Actor, Fitness Influencer)
Yasemin Adar Yigit (Retired Turkish Freestyle Wrestler, 2-time World Champion, 7-time European Champion, Olympic Bronze Medalist in Tokyo 2020)
Nefise Karatay (Actress, Former Model, Fitness Advocate)
Indonesia
I Igedz “Executioner” (Bodybuilder) (Leader)
Mrcus Gideon (Retired Professional Badminton Player)
Jeremiah Lakhwani (Model and Athlete)
Glenn Victor (Olympic Swimmer and Model, Mister International Indonesia 2024)
Fina Philippe (Presenter, Actress, and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Athlete)
Maria Selena Nurchaya (Actress, Model, Former Basketball Player, Miss Universe 2012)
The series is set to blend elite athleticism with cultural tradition, highlighting combat sports, ball games, track and field, and sports events like Korean ssireum, Mongolian wrestling, Turkish oil wrestling, and Muay Thai. This show is more than just a clash of athletes; it’s a showcase of heritage, pride, and physical mastery on an unparalleled global stage.
“At its heart, the Physical series is about raw competition that transcends disciplines and generations,” said Producer Jang Ho-gi. “By bringing national pride into the equation, the battles will be more intense, more emotional, and more unforgettable than ever.”
“Physical: Asia” will premiere this October 2025 on Netflix.
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Been looking for a new K-Pop group to stan? Maybe we could help.
Among all the K-Pop boy groups that have debuted in recent years, there’s one group that stands out for their dynamic choreography, strong vocals, and overall global appeal: NTX.
Photo from Website/NTX
NTX is an eight-piece group comprised of members Hyeongjin (Co-Leader, Main Vocalist), Yunhyeok (Co-Leader, Main Vocalist), Xiha (Vocalist, Main Dancer), Changhun (Vocalist, Rapper), Hojun (Lead Vocalist), Rawhyun (Main Producer, Rapper, and Sub-Vocalist), Eunho (Vocalist, Main Producer), and Seungwon (Rapper, Lead Dancer, and Maknae).
NTX, short for “NEO TRACKS NO. X,” is a representation of their ambition to rise up the ranks, explore new perspectives, and widen the reach of K-Pop from South Korea to the world. Since their debut in 2021, the group has toured the world, reaching countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Kazakhstan to name a few.
The boy group had also recently visited the Philippines, performing at a free-for-all mall show at Robinsons Galleria last Aug. 16, 2025. They performed alongside P-Pop boy group 1st.One, who said that NTX was amazing to perform with.
If you’ve just heard about NTX or a veteran NTFul, here are some songs to introduce NTX:
Kiss The World
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What better way to introduce a new group than with their debut track? NTX’s global ambition and vibrant energy shine brightly here, and the chorus feels straight out of a coming-of-age movie — like that moment where the main character finally realizes what they’re meant to do. The members’ harmonies add a hopeful glow, making it a true, feel-good anthem that perfectly captures their mission to connect with fans all over the world.
Black Hole
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Catchy and undeniably one of their dreamiest songs to date, “Black Hole” pulls the listener into a fantasy universe. With lyrics painting the galaxy as a place where you can do whatever your heart desires, NTX’s optimism and youthful charm come alive through every line. It’s a song that’s both vast and personal, almost like stargazing with friends and wondering what the future may hold.
Like This
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Switching up the vibe from the first two tracks, “Like This” shows NTX’s “NEO TRACK” versatility with swagger, old-school hip-hop flavor, and hard-hitting choreography. The song gleams with their bad boy charms while still carrying a message that’s true to their group’s identity: inspiring listeners to follow their hearts unapologetically, with no regrets.
PROBLEMATIC
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Powerful and charismatic, “PROBLEMATIC” sees NTX playing around with EDM while keeping their signature sharp choreography at the forefront. The pounding bass beats and exhilarating lyrics give the track an electrifying feel to it — the kind that leaves both fans and first-time listeners breathless and in awe.
OVER N OVER
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Their most recent release, “OVER N OVER,” channels the early 2010s party music vibe — think Flo Rida’s “Club Can’t Handle Me,” but with NTX’s own youthful twist. The track is irresistibly bouncy, pulling both fans and first-time listeners into the party. With its infectious chorus and catchy hook, it’s proof that NTX can deliver a crowd-pleasing performance, while still sticking to their signature energy and identity.
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The Philippines’ brightest OPM talents will now be honored at this historic event.
The Filipino Music Awards (FMAs) is set to become the country’s largest celebration of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), bringing together over 500 musicians, industry leaders, and music fans for a landmark night.
The historic event will spotlight the artists, record labels, and creative projects that continue to shape and elevate the OPM movement, honoring the extraordinary talent that exemplifies Filipino music today.
Happening on Oct. 21, 2025, 6 PM, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, The Filipino Music Awards is produced by AGC Power Holdings Corp. and presented by its subsidiary, Modern Media Group Inc. (MMGI).
The FMAs will recognize 20 prestigious awardees across five distinguished categories, each with a unique evaluation process that reflects the FMA’s mission to honor the best of Filipino music in all angles.
Photo from Instagram/Filipino Music Awards
Genre Awards: Celebrating the songs that redefine genres and drive musical innovation. These awards will be determined by the official FMA jury, composed of OPM icons and industry veterans, to ensure artistic credibility and expert recognition.
Folk Song of the Year
Hip-Hop Song of the Year
Alternative Song of the Year
Pop Song of the Year
R&B Song of the Year
Rock Song of the Year
People’s Choice Awards: Recognizing the artists and songs shaping today’s culture and setting tomorrow’s trends. These will be determined entirely through public voting. The official nominees for each category have also been revealed:
Legacy Awards: Paying homage to timeless artistry and legacies that shape generations. These awards will also be determined by the official FMA jury.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Music Foundation of the Year
Tribute Award
Grand Awards: Honoring Filipino artistry and impact on both a national and global scale. These awards will be determined through a balance of jury deliberation and metric achievement, reflecting both artistic merit and data-driven success.
Album of the Year
Artist of the Year
Concert of the Year
Music Company of the Year
Song of the Year
Tour of the Year
Special Awards: more details will be revealed soon.
Photo from Instagram/Filipino Music Awards
The evening will also feature world-class performances, bringing generations of standout OPM talent on one stage. The first batch of performers has been announced:
SB19
BINI
IV of Spades
Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra
Lolita Carbon
Yeng Constantino
BGYO
Maki
Ely Buendia
Ben&Ben
Gloc-9
More announcements will be made in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!
Photo from Instagram/Filipino Music Awards
Complimentary tickets are now available through SariSari Shopping until Oct. 19, 2025, with different magazine package types and inclusions:
Platinum Record Package (P4,000)
One exclusive shirt (black)
One exclusive tote bag
Three magazine back issues:
One Billboard Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One Rolling Stone Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One NYLON Manila magazine (randomly selected)
One complimentary Lower Box Ticket
Gold Record Package (P3,500)
One exclusive shirt (white)
One exclusive tote bag
Two magazine back issues:
One Billboard Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One Rolling Stone Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One Complimentary Upper Box Ticket
Silver Record Package (P1,500)
One exclusive tote bag
Two magazine back issues:
One Billboard Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One Rolling Stone Philippines magazine (randomly selected)
One Complimentary General Admission Ticket
For more updates and information, follow The Filipino Music Awards on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok! Vote for the People’s Choice Awards here.
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Locking eyes with a K-Drama heartthrob while clutching a signed poster isn’t always just a dream because Lee Jong-suk is coming to town. The breakout star is set to arrive at his 2025 Asia Fan Meeting Tour: “With: Just Like This!” in Manila on Nov. 30, 2025, at The Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Known for his unforgettable roles in Big Mouth, W: Two Worlds, Pinocchio, Romance Is a Bonus Book, While You Were Sleeping, and the new legal drama Law and the City, Lee has become a household name across Asia. His magnetic screen presence and emotional depth have earned him legions of fans, and now, Filipino supporters will get the chance to meet him face-to-face.
Photo from Instagram/Lee Jong-suk
This marks Lee Jong-suk’s second fan meeting in the Philippines, following his 2023 visit. With his latest drama gaining traction and his fan base stronger than ever, the Manila stop is expected to be one of the most memorable legs of the tour.
Lee’s Manila stop is just one leg of a seven-city tour that kicked off in Seoul on Sept. 14, coinciding with his birthday. From there, he’ll greet fans in Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, Bangkok, and Hong Kong, bringing his signature warmth and charm to each destination. The tour’s title, With: Just Like This!, is a nod to his official fan club “With,” and reflects his desire to create intimate, lasting memories with supporters across Asia.
Tickets go on sale Oct. 4, 2025 at 12 PM via TicketNet and all TicketNet outlets. Prices range from P3,500 (Lower Box B) to P12,000 (VVIP). All attendees will receive an exclusive photocard, while VIP and VVIP ticket holders will enjoy additional perks like a special ID and lanyard. Select fans will also be eligible for signed posters, group photos, and a hi-bye session, with raffle allocations across ticket tiers.
For longtime fans or newcomers to the K-Drama universe, this event promises an evening of charm, connection, and cinematic magic. Follow Lee Jong-suk on Instagram to keep yourself updated on his latest shows and events.
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The word “tawid” in Filipino primarily means “to cross.” It simply means moving from one place to another. As is the case with most words, the country’s counterpart to "crossing" has also developed new meanings. And for The Juans — consisting of members Carl Guevarra, Japs Mendoza, Chael Adriano, and RJ Cruz — the word represents the current stage in their respective lives.
While the pop-rock band started out with more upbeat songs during the early years of their career, they have unexpectedly established a name for themselves as a “hugot band,” known for their songs about love and heartache. It is a songwriting style they have mastered over the past few years, with singles like “Hindi Tayo Pwede,” “Hatid,” and “Dulo.” All these tracks, also categorized as “mapanakit (hurtful)” songs, tackle love in its purest form, though not in its most tender.
For their new album, titled TAWID, The Juans is still devoted to their brand of storytelling. This album, however, is more nuanced. It marks a reinvention of their musical style, both lyrically and sonically. During the listening party and press conference held at TriNoma last Sept. 4, The Beat Asia got a chance to experience TAWID before its official release. Here’s what we think about the album.
Courtesy of The Juans
‘TAWID’ Proves the Juans Is More Than Just Their ‘Hugot Band’ Moniker
If there’s one thing fans can expect from the album, it’s that The Juans’ customary songs about the heartbreaking side of love are still very much present. On being branded as a "hugot band," lead vocalist Guevarra said during the press conference, "I think hugot songs only make sense if they come from a point of sincere, honest love. The lover part will always be an integral key to our messaging."
In Tagalog, “Hugot” means “pull.” The word has also taken on a new meaning, especially in the contemporary era, where it refers to drawing out something more profound and sentimental from deep within. For Guevarra, all their hugot songs stem from a genuine feeling of affection. It’s not something they just pulled out of thin air. Pain wouldn’t be present, after all, if the love wasn’t real in the first place. It’s the authenticity of it all that has made their songs strike a deep emotional chord among listeners. And Gueverra couldn't have explained it better.
“Hindi ka naman masasaktan kung hindi ka nagmahal ng tunay (You won’t get hurt if you weren’t truly in love). Therefore, [love] is essential to our storytelling. It’s part of the formula… We are storytellers first before we are musicians. There will be love songs all the time,” Guevarra added.
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
The band members revealed it took them half a year to fully flesh out the album, with some songs written a few years ago. The album, which consists of 10 songs (including the previously released “Ako Na Lang” and “Ano Ba Talaga Tayo?” featuring Janine Berdin), originally had more than 10. While the band admitted it was scary at first to put as many as 10 out there, it was also a struggle for them to narrow the list down.
“It was more about truly committing to the messaging and storytelling. [Our one guiding light was what we wanted to write] from a place where we actually are — at this point in life, our age, and our emotional state,” said Guevarra.
It’s clear that TAWID wasn’t intended to be just an album fans can listen to during sad hours. It serves as a representation of where the band is currently, both in creative and personal aspects. Although writing about the different facets of romance has always been The Juans’ bread and butter, they have, from time to time, incorporated songs that aren’t all about love. TAWID is no different. If anything, it only showcases the band’s sensibilities as both artists and storytellers, having successfully conveyed complex emotions through their songwriting.
Courtesy of The JuansCourtesy of The Juans
The album’s opening track, “Gusto Kita,” is a high-energy, disco-leaning number about a bold declaration of love. It is a fun contrast to the album’s far less energetic tone, setting the stage for what would become an emotionally charged listening experience. It is followed by "Ako Na Lang," where the narrator clings to the hope of being chosen by the one they desire. However, one romantic single from the album stands out the most: “‘Di Na Masakit.”
The Juans point out that we often hear songs about the painful aftermath of a relationship, but rarely about what happens when both the pain — and the love — finally fade. The track is a celebration of moving forward, free from the weight of what once was. Of course, it wouldn’t be a The Juans record without a generous dose of “hugot.” And “hugot” they deliver. But it’s in songs like “Tanda” and “Naiwan” where we truly get a chance to connect with the band on a deeper level.
Inspired by a band member’s friend who recently got married, “Naiwan” is a song about contemplating life and realizing that it’s moving quickly for everyone they love. It’s not a bitter song — just a sudden realization that time is passing, things are changing, our friends are getting their lives together, and at some point, we start feeling a little left behind; hence, the title.
“Tanda,” on the other hand, is a sentimental single about looking back on what they’ve accomplished as a band, holding onto their fondest memories as they grow older, and preserving them until the moment age finally catches up with them.
Photo by The Beat Asia
TAWID is undeniably a The Juans album. They are not yet done writing about the different aspects of love — and, by all means, they don’t have to be. After all, the band thrives greatly on authenticity. Every song they write is based on real experiences, whether romantic or otherwise. That said, the album could have been even stronger with more songs outside the romantic context, as the band has proven they can handle deeper and more diverse themes just as well.
The Juans Is Done Chasing Popularity
Having recently celebrated their 10th year as The Juans, the lesson they continue to embrace is to see things through “purpose, not popularity.” Over those 10 years, they've learned that "longevity is the name of the game." As Guevarra said, "it’s not about chasing hype — it’s about living a life with purpose."
Reflecting on their journey and drive, Guevarra shares insights into what fuels The Juans’ perseverance and evolving aspirations. “Being ambitious is one of the reasons why we keep pushing, even if we don’t see the output that we desire. In our 10 years as The Juans, not every song we release [has been a hit]… But our dreams have expanded from [wanting to be] known and famous to being an inspiration to the people that we are singing for… Our dreams are expanding. And this ambition that we have is also one of our driving factors in giving our best even if we don’t see the [fruits of our labor] yet.”
Years ago, the members of The Juans asked themselves one question: “Bakit kaya wala nagsusulat tungkol sa’tin (Why is no one writing about us)?” They’re thankful that several journalists have started writing about them, especially last year.
“Uy, nakikita na tayo sa balita (Hey, we made it to the news),” said Gueverra.
Courtesy of The Juans
During the press conference, a number of Juanistas (the band’s fanbase) were already flocking to experience the album firsthand. Despite time constraints, The Beat Asia managed to ask at least one question that all members could answer quickly: “If each member could pick just one personal favorite track from the album, what would it be?”
RJ: “Ngiti.”
Carl: “Naiwan.”
Japs: “Gusto Kita.”
Chael: “Tanda.”
No explanations. Just a raw glimpse into where the members currently are, songs that would allow listeners a look into their personal journeys. Overall, TAWID is a strong reflection of who The Juans truly are as a band and as individual artists. It is a great milestone album, serving listeners a record perfect for late-night hours. The album shows they are more than just a band known for heartbreak anthems, as they venture beyond their usual comfort zone while staying true to what fans love about them. And we’re excited to see them bare more layers of themselves in the future.
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Indio, California is about to get a taste of P-Pop for the first time as BINI joins the lineup of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2026. The P-Pop group makes history as the first-ever P-Pop act to perform at the iconic desert festival.
The full lineup of Coachella 2026 | Photo from Instagram/Coachella
Coachella runs for two weekends, April 10 to 12 and April 17 to 19, 2026, at the Empire Polo Club. Headliners for the festival’s 2026 edition include Sabrina Carpenter — “keeping her word” following her 2024 debut — alongside Justin Bieber, who will headline for the first time, and Karol G, the first Colombian artist to top the bill.
BINI is scheduled to perform on April 10 and 17, sharing the stage with Sabrina Carpenter alongside KATSEYE, The XX, Teddy Swims, Disclosure, Foster the People, and more.
BINI | Photo from Instagram/BINI
The “Nation’s Girl Group” — comprised of members Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena — debuted in 2021 under ABS-CBN’s Star Music and Star Magic with their single “Born to Win.”
With their synchronized performances, hard-hitting vocals, and unique pop sound, they have emerged as one of the biggest names in P-pop and Southeast Asia, known especially for their viral hits “Pantropiko,” “Salamin, Salamin,” “Lagi,” “Karera,” and more.
They have also released English-language tracks such as “Cherry on Top,” “Blink Twice,” and “Shagidi.”
Other popular acts set to perform at Coachella 2026 include K-Pop powerhouse BIGBANG, Taemin, Addison Rae, Alex G, YoungThug, Laufey, Fujii Kaze, MajorLazer, and PinkPantheress.
For more information and updates, follow the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on Instagram.
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Last Sept. 5, the Smart Araneta Coliseum was packed with music fans as Coke Studio Philippines held its Season 9 concert, bringing together an exciting lineup of local and international artists.
Curated from social listening and careful research, The Coke Studio Live at the Big Dome lineup served up a feast of explosive collaborations and electrifying performances. This year’s theme revolved around cross-genre tracks, and each collaboration showcased a unique blend of musical genres that delighted fans and made music history with every note.
“OPM (Original Pilipino Music) is very much alive! If you look at the charts now, you see more OPM music. Everybody really worked hard to uplift OPM, and we’re really grateful for the small part that we play in giving these rising artists a platform to thrive,” said Teejae Sonza, Coca-Cola Trademark Category Marketing Head, ASEAN & South Pacific.
More than just a music platform, Coke Studio is all about uplifting people through music and creating shared moments that will last a lifetime. This year’s lineup exemplified that through never-before-seen collaborations between some of today’s hottest artists and rising musicians. The event featured Coke Studio fan-fave collaborators ALAMAT, who teamed up with singer-songwriter MRLD. Indie band Over October also shared the stage with Ena Mori, while Dionela delivered a sultry R&B/Hip-Hop track with up-and-coming rapper Alex Bruce.
But icing on the cake was the presence of the nation’s girl group BINI, who dropped their fourth Coke Studio track alongside the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY), and global heavy-hitter Lauv, who returned to Manila for a truly exciting set filled with all his beloved songs such as “I Like Me Better,” “Chasing Fire,” and “Paris in the Rain.” Here’s what went down last Friday night.
Pushing the Boundaries of OPM
If anything, Coke Studio is a platform where artists are encouraged to create and experiment. With this season focusing on cross-genre tracks, it was a night packed with unexpected soundscapes.
The night kicked off with an explosive performance by Filipino boy group ALAMAT, who returned to the Coke Studio stage. The six members opened with their latest single, “Hiraya,” and followed up with hits “Sa ‘Yo Pa Rin Uuwi,” and “Dagundong.”
They then welcomed Coke Studio rookie MRLD, who performed “Ikaw Pa Rin,” “Ligaya,” and “Sandali.” The singer also shared that apart from this being her Coke Studio debut, it’s also her first live performance at the Araneta Coliseum.
The two artists returned to the stage to perform their Coke Studio collab track, “Rock Baby,” a reimagined record of the VST & Company classic.
“When we heard that song was going to be our peg, we were excited. We immediately took that line, ‘Rock Baby Rock’ as the main hook. Even though it didn’t run through the whole song, we made sure it’s there alongside our own sound,” MRLD told The Beat Asia. “The surprising part is we were able to give it justice and bring it back to life.”
“We were excited to make it our own, because each of us has something to offer,” added Jao. “We were able to give it our own flavor.”
ALAMAT | Photo by The Beat Asia
Alamat celebrated their fourth collaboration with the platform, having previously released tracks with artists like Iñigo Pascual (Season 5), Dwta (Season 7), and Nik Makino (Season 8). When asked how the experience has helped them evolve as artists, Jao shared, “When we started, there were only a few of us who wrote songs. Coke Studio encouraged us to write more, and we discovered more about ourselves. It has been a big part of growth.We learned so many different genres from other artists, and we learned how to hone our craft, so thank you so much, Coke Studio!”
On the other hand, MRLD is gaining momentum, having just released their debut album, “7th Sense,” last March. When asked if there were any challenges they had to overcome during its production, they answered, “With the tracks, most of the songs were written two or three years ago, so the challenge was paano ko siya maramdaman ulit (how do I feel them again)? Like with the sad songs, if I’m happy where I am now in life, it’s difficult to put myself in those shoes again. But thanks to the producers of the album, we were able to revive those feelings, and the storytelling feels were still there. I was also able to produce, which I haven’t done in a long time. Usually, I would just send over my songs to the producers, but for this album, I was very hands-on.”
Alamat and MRLD | Photo by The Beat Asia
The night seemed to have just begun as Over October made a rockin’ Coke Studio debut with “Bitin,” “Kaakit-Akit,” “Lumayo,” and their hit song, “Ikot.”
During the pre-show interviews, we got to chat with the band and asked if there was a change they would like to see in OPM.
“I think not paying too much attention to the numbers. You’ll be surprised at how many good artists there are that don’t have big numbers,” said the band’s lead vocalist, Josh Buizon. “I think that would change it. It may be difficult at first, but you can start by going to open mics. You’ll be surprised at how there are so many smaller acts that are so good!”
Filipino-Japanese singer-songwriter Ena Mori brought her bright pop energy to the stage afterwards, as she performed “SOS,” “Trust Me,” and “King of the Night.” She was then joined by Over October to sing their collab track “Tulad ng Dati.” The song has a feel-good sound with lyrics about reminiscing about the past. The song samples Sam Concepcion and Tippy Dos Santos’ “Dati,” giving it a whole new vibe and flavor.
Courtesy of Coke Studio Philippines
When asked about the unique qualities they were able to put into the track, Josh replied, “I think we brought in our signature sound — like the band feel of it. Our sound is more on the rock side of things, so we were able to bring down a little bit of that flavor. We also distributed the writing. A lot of the English parts of the song are Ena, and the Tagalog ones are Over October. I think in that sense, we also brought our own flavor to those verses and parts that we were singing.”
“I think I reminisce in that alternative soft rock part of the track. It was a challenge coming from synth pop, then going into the alternative side, but there was still a bit of synth pop element in there. It really just homogenized with all of us,” added Ena.
“Ena was also saying she liked one of our songs with ‘70s elements. So we tried adding some of those to the track too,” added Joshua Lua, lead guitarist of the band.
With Season 9 being their first Coke Studio stage, the two artists also expressed how amazing it was to be part of the lineup. “We keep saying it over and over, it’s really a dream come true! Growing up, we would see Coke Studios and all of the artists, hoping one day we would be able to be a part of the seasons. We’re just really happy to be here, soaking everything in. We’re just having a great time!
“I think we’re all proud of ourselves to be able to do this,” said Ena. “It’s such a surreal moment! It's also a challenge to do everything perfectly, but I'm just grateful for the opportunity.”
Over October and Ena Mori | Photo by The Beat Asia
Fierce rapper Alex Bruce brought the house down with “Bling” alongside her back-up dancers. Although she only had one song for this set, everyone was energized by her performance, which is proof that she’s someone to look out for.
Following her performance is Filipino R&B artist Dionela, who charmed the crowd with his soulful music and meaningful lyricism that earned him a spot in a unique pocket of OPM. The singer made us all feel kilig as he sang two of his biggest hits, “Marilag” and “Sining.”
For their collaboration track, the duo sang about situationships in “Fall Season,” a soulful R&B track reimagined from Moonstar88’s “Migraine.”
“I produced the track and I actually created it in the middle of traveling between gigs,” Dionela told The Beat Asia. “And for some reason, it was so easy to do. Maybe because I was happy at that moment in time, and I guess that translated to the music. I just let the music create itself.”
Alex Bruce also shared how amazed she was by the process, admiring Dionela’s work as a producer, saying how she had learned a lot from the experience, and even hopes to produce her own music someday.
Dionela also sang his song “Oksihina,” which he stated was the song that still surprises him every time he performs it live.
“That song was written when I had fatal COVID, and I wrote it on the back of the receipt of the last food I wanted to eat,” he revealed. “Every time I sing that song, it feels like, you know, I wouldn’t have been able to sing this song if things turned out differently. It’s a new beginning every time I sing it.”
Dionela and Alex Bruce | Photo by The Beat Asia
After a short intermission, with the hosts leading the audience with a round of games, it was finally time for the main event. The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth gave us their soaring rendition of BINI’s “Blooming,” before the girl group brought the house down with back-to-back performances of “Blooming,” “Blink Twice,” and “Salamin, Salamin.”
They also sang their latest Coke Studio track, “Oxygen,” which they performed alongside the company orchestra.
“This isn’t the first time we’re performing on the same stage since we already worked together at the BINI concert,” BINI Jhoanna shared during the pre-show interviews. “It’s a full circle moment for all of us.”
Courtesy of Coke Studio Philippines
Coke Studio then welcomed a beloved global artist to the stage, who played a 16-track set that took us on an emotional roller-coaster ride. Lauv reunited with his Filipino fans, causing the singer to get emotional from the cheers and support he received. Some of our favorite stages included his opening number “Paris in the Rain,” “Steal the Show,” the “Mean It – Eyes – Superhero” medley, “Who,” “Never Not,” and of course, the song he described as “will always be our baby,” “I Like Me Better.”
Courtesy of Coke Studio PhilippinesCourtesy of Coke Studio Philippines
Safe to say that Coke Philippines did it again, serving up exciting collaborations and performances worth remembering. When we think about how far this platform has come, we remember that more than good music, it has also created memorable moments for everyone present.
“When this started nine years ago, it was all about uplifting the sights and sounds of Filipino music. We’re not creating something new here. We’re just listening to what’s out there on the radio, listening to what the fans are telling us, as well as what’s on social media platforms and responding to and co-developing it with the artists that we work with,” said Teejae.
“We are very fortunate to have worked with a lot of artists. We’re very happy to give people a platform, and we’re very happy when our alumni become big in the industry. Hopefully, this platform can also help them be discovered by more audiences in other parts of the globe, because that’s the value of Coca-Cola. It’s about uniting people, creating shared moments, and uplifting the world through music and connection. We’re very happy to be part of this development of OPM, and to continue supporting the industry and the passions of the Filipinos as well.”
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