Tuesday, October 28, 2025

5 Things to Know about IV of Spades’ first two-day solo concert at SM MOA Arena

IV OF SPADES makes a triumphant comeback, adding a second night to their debut Arena concert after tickets vanished in a flash. The full original lineup—Badjao, Blaster, Unique, and Zild—will take the stage for two unforgettable nights, December 12 and 13, 2025. Be there for their epic return: IV OF SPADES LIVE AT THE MOA ARENA, a live music experience by KARPOS.

Since forming in 2014, IV of Spades has lit up the OPM scene, debuting with “Ilaw sa Daan” in 2016 and capturing hearts with their viral 2018 anthem, “Mundo.”


As anticipation reaches a fever pitch, here are five must-know details about this landmark concert event!

  1. Mark your calendars: IV of Spades’ first arena concert takes over the SM Mall of Asia Arena on December 12 and 13, 2025, with a second date added after overwhelming demand. Tickets go on sale on November 9, 2025, at noon. Expect brand-new tracks, reinvented fan favorites, and the entire original lineup on stage.

  2. Their comeback single “Aura” stormed to #5 on Spotify PH, breaking streaming records. Fans can look forward to experiencing it live for the very first time.

  3. The band’s new album, “Andalucia,” drops on November 5, 2025, just in time to set the stage for December’s concerts. Fans can pre-save all 12 tracks—including “Aura,” “Nanaman,” and “Konsensya”—on Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer.

  4. IV of Spades has been buzzing on social media, jumping into viral trends and keeping fans in the loop. Their TikTok (@ivofspadesofficial) features playful takes on “Illegal by PinkPantheress” and the remixed audio from “The Hows of Us,” all while hyping up their big concert.

https://www.tiktok.com/@ivofspadesofficial/video/7557683915805297927

IV of Spades participated in the remixed audio trend from “The Hows of Us.”

  1. Fans have spotted clever Beatles-inspired touches in “Aura” and “Nanaman”—from the Mellotron flute in “Aura” that echoes Strawberry Fields Forever to the whimsical bicycle scene in “Nanaman,” reminiscent of I Feel Fine’s video. These Easter eggs weave classic nostalgia into IV of Spades’ signature sound.

This is your moment—grab your tickets at any SM Tickets outlet or online at smtickets.com and claim your spot at this once-in-a-lifetime, sold-out spectacle! Hurry before they’re gone!


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IV of Spades’ first concert at SM Mall of Asia Arena is set to take off on December 12-13, 2025.


Ticket Prices:

● FLOOR STANDING - PHP 4,500.00

● LB PREMIUM - PHP 6,500.00

● LB REGULAR - PHP 5,500.00

● UB PREMIUM - PHP 3,500.00

● UB REGULAR - PHP 3,000.00

● GA PREMIUM - PHP 2,000.00

● GA REGULAR - PHP 1,500.00

*Ticket prices are inclusive of ticketing fees


 

Crispy Fry® Reinforces Its Place in Filipino Kitchens with New Campaign and Brand Ambassador Ian Veneracion

Crispy Fry®, the country’s #1 breading mix brand, continues to ignite Filipino love for fried food with the launch of its “Eat Campaign”, a fresh take on home-cooked meals that goes beyond just fried chicken. With new dish inspirations like the Fry Feast Platter — featuring Fried Tofu, Mojos, and Potato Wedges — Crispy Fry® proves it remains a dynamic kitchen essential for all tastes and occasions.


This year, the brand brings an exciting new energy to Filipino households by introducing its newest endorser: Ian Veneracion, a timeless and widely admired figure in Philippine entertainment.

Best known for his versatile roles and family-oriented image, Ian Veneracion now serves as the official face of Crispy Fry®’s 2025 campaign. With a showbiz career that spans over four decades, Ian has earned the trust and admiration of generations—especially mothers and homemakers who resonate with his dependable, warm, and relatable persona.

“Crispy Fry® is a staple in countless Filipino homes, and we are excited to welcome Mr. Ian Veneracion as our brand ambassador,” said Daye Magno, Department Head of Marketing at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation. “His credibility and enduring connection with Filipino families make him the perfect partner to represent our message: that Crispy Fry® brings ease, flavor, and joy to everyday meals.”

More Than Just Fried Chicken




Crispy Fry® has long been known for turning everyday fried chicken into a crispysarap experience. With variants like Original, Garlic, Spicy, and BatterMix, Crispy Fry® gives homemakers the freedom to serve crispy and delicious meals — every single time.

For 2025, the campaign broadens this appeal, inviting families to try more creative dishes through the Fry Feast Platter and explore how Crispy Fry® can bring life to more than just chicken. Whether it's golden-crisp tofu or perfectly seasoned mojos, Crispy Fry® is a must-have pantry staple for effortless yet flavorful cooking.

“As someone who enjoys preparing meals for my family, I appreciate how Crispy Fry® makes cooking not only easier but more exciting,” shared Ian Veneracion. “It’s reliable, delicious, and versatile — just like how I approach the roles I take on.”

“Basta Fried, i-Crispy Fry®”

At the heart of the campaign is a renewed call to action: “Basta Fried, i-Crispy Fry®.” This tagline captures the brand’s commitment to making every fried dish a guaranteed success, while also inviting more personal, emotional connections with Filipino homemakers and families.

The campaign is on a roll across multiple platforms with Ian Veneracion leading the way in a series of TV commercials and digital content aimed at inspiring more Filipinos to enjoy cooking at home. 

Only Maya Gives You the Power to Save Your Favorite Housemate in PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition

After a successful run of the last Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Celebrity Collab Edition, Maya—the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines—is back inside Kuya’s house. With a new batch of Gen Z Kapamilya and Kapuso housemates, fresh collab twists, and iconic moments unfolding every week, the magic of the PBB Celebrity Collab 2.0 Edition is stronger than ever. Returning as this season’s official voting partner, Maya gives Mayamayans the power to save their favorite housemate in just a few taps. 

  

Whether you're a loyal stan, a silent voter, or a full-on fandom commander, Maya makes it easier and smarter to go all out for your fave. 





Your Vote, Supercharged 

Mayamayans can level up their voting power with exclusive perks—like referral rewards and extra funds from their Maya Savings interest earnings. First time using Maya? Get 100% cashback on your first vote!  Share your Maya invite code and earn as much as ₱15,000 from successful referrals so you and your friends can go full force to save your chosen Housemate. 


Voting Made Easy 

No complicated steps here. Just open the Maya app, tap the PBB icon, choose your Housemate, and pick your vote package. That’s it. Whether you’re backing your favorite Kapamilya or Kapuso Housemate, Maya puts real voting power in your hands.  


More Than a Vote—It’s a Movement 

Mayamayans can even use their Maya Savings interest earnings to support their favorite Housemates. With Maya, everyday transactions—like paying bills, buying coffee, or sending money—can earn up to 15% interest p.a., credited daily, giving you extra funds to vote when it matters most. 


Don’t miss PBB Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0, airing every weeknight at 9:40 PM, Saturdays at 6:15 PM, and Sundays at 10:05 PM on GMA.  You can also catch every episode online via Pinoy Big Brother’s YouTube page, GMA Pinoy TV Channel, Kapuso Stream, Kapamilya Online Live, and iWantTFC. The all-access stream is also available on GMANETWORK.COM and IWANT. 

 

Download the Maya app now, vote smart, and start your #SaveWithMaya journey today! To know more about this exciting collab, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.   

Holiday Travel Made Easy: 3 Ways to Beat the Christmas Rush

Between group chats that can’t decide where to go, sold-out stays, and flights that suddenly cost more than your 13th-month pay, holiday travel planning already feels like a sport. Your wallet’s crying before you’ve even booked a ticket, and that konting budget? Lalong ‘di kakasya kasi mahal lahat! 

Holiday travel hits different—it’s exciting but expensive, and the chaos can test even the most seasoned traveler. But don’t hang up your travel goals just yet—here are three foolproof, wallet-friendly ways to make it through the holiday rush and actually get to your destination, stress-free:

  1. Book Now, Pay Later — Even If You Missed the Seat Sale or Dream Stay

Holiday travel season is when flights sell out fast, hotels get fully booked, and prices skyrocket overnight. The solution? Plan early and book smart with GGives. It lets you secure flight and hotel deals of up to ₱125,000 while prices are still low, then pay later in easy, budget-friendly installments.


No more “book now, cry later”—just smooth, stress-free planning with no down payment required. So skip the payday panic and last-minute price hikes—booking early and still having a budget left for pasalubong. That’s the real travel win.


  1. Keep Your Budget Intact with a Fuss-Free Credit Line for Smooth Trips

That “I deserve this” feeling hits hard during the holidays—and so does the panic when you check your remaining balance. Between food trips, travel essentials like groceries, gas, and RFID load, plus last-minute gifts and unplanned pasalubong, expenses can pile up fast. That’s where GCredit comes in.


With a flexible credit line of up to ₱50,000 (depending on eligibility), GCredit helps you cover unplanned costs—whether it’s meals, activities, or that unexpected “treat yourself” moment. It’s the spending sidekick that keeps your trip smooth, your wallet steady, and your holiday worry-free.


  1. Travel with Confidence — Keep Your Peace of Mind Wherever You Go

You’ve packed your essentials and planned every detail—but what about peace of mind? Travel hiccups like flight delays, lost luggage, or sudden tummy aches can happen anytime. That’s where GInsure comes in, giving you protection that keeps you covered when the unexpected strikes.


For as low as ₱299, Standard Insurance Travel Protect International or Saver Plus (for local  travels, P103) provides coverage for travel inconveniences, emergency medical assistance, and personal accidents—up to ₱2.5 million. It’s simple, affordable protection that lets you enjoy your trip worry-free. Because while you can’t control delays, you can control your peace of mind.


Find out what stress-free travel feels like when you GCash Your Way This Holiday

No more overthinking, no more “next year na lang.” Tuloy ang travel goals this holiday season—because real travel freedom isn’t about how light your luggage is, but how light your worries are.

With GCash every step of your trip, from booking to coming home, is smoother and stress-free. So go ahead, pack your bags (not your stress)—you’ve got the guts and the funds to make every holiday merry, not heavy.

If you’re eligible, you can activate GGives by going to "Borrow" then clicking "GGives". Fill out the quick application form, and once you're activated, you'll see your available credit limit! Note that your offer is subject to regular evaluation. To activate GCredit, go to "Borrow" then click "GCredit." Fill out your details, complete your registration, and submit to view your credit limit.


With GInsure on GCash, you can secure comprehensive travel insurance in just a few taps, ensuring that your adventures are protected.


Ready to hop on your next flight? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!


Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.  

Jollibee’s New Christmas Treats Bring Holiday Joy in Every Cup

Christmas in the Philippines is all about togetherness, joy, and of course — indulgent food that bring people closer. This year, Jollibee makes the season even sweeter with its all-new Christmas Treats, made to turn even the simplest moments into a festive holiday celebration.



From the first sip of the luscious Iced Vanilla and Iced Caramel Coffees to the creamy Coffee Floats, and the chocolatey Rocky Road Sundae made with KITKAT ®, every treat delivers holiday joy in every cup. Smooth, crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey — these festive treats offer rich textures and delicious flavors that feel like Christmas with every cup.

“Filipino Christmas is known as the longest and happiest in the world, and Jollibee is proud to be part of the celebrations,” said Pamie Cruz, Marketing Director from Jollibee. “With the new Jollibee Christmas treats, we want to capture the spirit of the season by transforming everyday into joyful holiday moments.”


Perfect for barkada bonding, office merienda breaks, or family get-togethers, Jollibee’s Christmas Treats let you bring the holiday cheer anywhere, anytime, starting at only PHP 60.

The Jollibee Christmas Treats are available for a limited time only in select Jollibee stores nationwide for dine-in, take-out, and delivery. Order now via the Jollibee App, Order.Jollibee.com, GrabFood, or foodpanda, and experience holiday joy in every moment.

For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on X, Instagram, and TikTok. 

Immerse into Evening Thrillers and the Black Swan Soirée this Halloween at Solaire Resort North

Step into a world of the unknown this Halloween where a bounty of the dark, thrilling side of life anticipates your arrival at Solaire Resort North. Revel in the nightly elegance of the Black Swan Halloween Soirée atop Quezon City this October 31st where the moon-lit horizon surrounds you for an electrifying evening of mystery and spirits ready to be unleashed with each sip.


The spirits beckon

Heed the Black Swan’s call this Halloween at Solaire Resort North where a night of sophisticated mystery awaits partygoers. Spirits are unleashed this October 31 as Skybar partners with Bacardí Philippines to create exclusive and exciting new cocktails just for everyone this Halloween.



Let the revelry begin for Php 1,000++ per person, with unlimited servings of boldly delicious cocktails and delicately curated luxury bottle packages made for a night of exhilaration. Immerse yourself in a darkly glamorous atmosphere on a rooftop by the stars where you can toast, mingle, and dance at this one-night-only event.


Unleash the darkness this Halloween

Let loose at Skybar and dance along to the exhilarating beats of DJ Eva Smalls ready to guide you through an evening of otherworldly energy. Sway and move to the beat of each rhythm and unleash your spirit this Halloween. Slip into your best Black Swan-inspired outfit for the night and indulge in the dark.



For more of a thriller, visit Quezon Club in your best costume, where the evening lines up a tantalizing set of acts to spice up your Friday festivities. From a beguiling performance on the harp by French-Vietnamese harpist and singer Heloise La Harpe, an energetic dance routine by Quezon Club’s own in-house performers the Quezon Collective, high-octane beats by DJ Brenda Muñoz and DJ Earl Austin, all the way to a special performance by renowned impersonator, Daryl “MJ” Jackson to take you back to the past this Halloween.


For reservations and inquiries, visit sn.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/skybar-spirits-unleashed, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table and give into the call of the night full of thrillers and mysteries this Halloween. 

The Manila Hotel Named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards for the Second Consecutive Year

The Manila Hotel once again earns international recognition as it is named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel 2025 at the 32nd World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held on October 13, 2025, at the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong.



Following its 2024 win, this consecutive victory reaffirms The Manila Hotel’s enduring excellence and its stature as the country’s premier luxury landmark. The World Travel Awards—often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry”—honor organizations that set new standards of excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality worldwide.



Accepting the award was Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., President of The Manila Hotel, who expressed deep gratitude for the international recognition.


“To be named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel once is already a distinct honor, but to receive this award for the second consecutive year is truly humbling,” said Atty. Lina. “This recognition belongs to our people—the heart and soul of The Manila Hotel—whose passion and dedication continue to define Filipino hospitality at its finest. For 113 years, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of heritage and excellence, and this honor further inspires us to uphold that legacy as we continue to elevate the experience of our guests.”


A Legacy That Looks Ahead

With this back-to-back win, The Manila Hotel further cements its place as a national icon of heritage and prestige. As it continues to evolve, the hotel remains committed to enhancing every guest experience. Rooted in history, thriving in the present, and focused on the future, The Manila Hotel stands as a living symbol of Filipino pride. 

Mars Philippines Celebrates How Pet Adoption Can Change Two Lives

Mars, a leading pet care company behind brands pets and pet owners love including PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, WHISKAS®, and CESAR®, launched the second annual Mars Global Adoption Weekend (GAW). 


Building on the success of last year’s global adoption drive, the 2025 initiative expands to over 20 countries and is shining a light on the impact of pets on mental wellbeing and how adopting a shelter pet can change two lives – the pets and the pet owners.



The Philippines was one of the first to start the activation in partnership with Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) at the 10th Anniversary Run Fur Life event in Manila. The signature event attracted over a thousand participants, inspired by BB the dog as mascot. A tripod dog, rescued by AKF volunteers, BB is a celebrity advocate for shelter dogs in the Philippines, showcasing the benefits of shelter dogs to be adopted in their forever homes.


These stories reinforce the powerful truth that pets transform lives: 83% of people worldwide say their pet has improved their mental wellbeing (Mars and CALM PAWS Survey, 2025). Pets and people truly are better together.


Although shelter adoptions in the Philippines remain in the low single digits, the impact is profound. Adopting a shelter pet transforms two lives: giving the animal a second chance and enriching the life of the pet parent. 



“Adopting a shelter pet changes two lives. It’s not only the pet’s life that is transformed, but the human’s as well. This Mars Global Adoption Weekend, Mars Philippines is proud to champion adoption by donating more than 30,000 daily pet meals to our shelter partners. In October 2025 anyone can help fill the bowl of shelter pets in the Philippines with Mars #TwoLivesChanged campaign at Shopee, Lazada and TikTok. Mars will donate meals for shelter pets with every purchase of PEDIGREE® and WHISKAS® products in our official stores*,” shares Ms. Deng Osite, Sales Director, Mars Petcare Philippines.

For more than 30 years of doing business in the Philippines, Mars has built trusted partnerships with local NGOs, the veterinary community, and opinion leaders to tackle pet homelessness. Through educational programs and donations, Mars supports both pets in need and the communities that care for them—driven by our unwavering belief that every pet deserves a loving home. 

Celebrating Sustainability and Culture: Miss Earth 2025 at Estancia de Lorenzo, Tarlac

The Miss Earth 2025 x Estancia de Lorenzo Eco-Tourism and Sustainability Experience begins at the Estancia de Lorenzo Tarlac on October 25 with a warm welcome ceremony. A courtesy call with Mayor Boots Rodriguez of Capas highlighted the local community’s support, culminating in a farm-to-table welcome dinner at Balai de Lorenzo that emphasizes the use of local produce and sustainable dining practices. This day marks the beginning of a meaningful journey where beauty meets purpose, and nature serves as the stage for advocacy.




The following day, delegates immerse themselves in an agro-tourism experience that includes a crop tour and a salted egg-making workshop led by local farmers and culinary experts. A cooking demonstration and tasting session by Balai De Lorenzo’s in-house chef, Chef RJ, showcases farm-to-table recipes. The day concludes with a poolside tapas and cheese night at Mango Garden, featuring sustainable local products, allowing delegates to connect more deeply with the roots of sustainability through hands-on experiences involving farms, food, and community.



The third day, October 27, is dedicated to environmental outreach and cultural exchange. Delegates participate in a tree-planting activity at Manibukyot Village, followed by a school visit and an educational outreach program that includes environmental talks aimed at inspiring the next generation. The day also features a swimsuit photoshoot highlighting eco-friendly fashion, a boodle fight dinner accompanied by a cultural performance from Capas National High School, and the awarding of Ms. Esthetica. This day reinforces the message that beauty with a cause transforms into meaningful action through planting, teaching, and celebrating the culture that sustains us.

 

The event concludes on October 28 with a long gown photoshoot held at Balai de Lorenzo, followed by a farewell breakfast. As delegates depart, they carry with them the spirit of Estancia de Lorenzo Tarlac—its warmth and unwavering commitment to sustainability, thus leaving a lasting impression of the region’s dedication to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.


For more information, bookings, and inquiries, please contact Estancia de Lorenzo via its official website at estanciadelorenzo.ph.  To promote transparency and safe transactions,  bookmark and share the official site to help prevent scams and protect clients