The journey of Filipino designer Veejay Floresca to becoming the first Filipina trans woman to win an international fashion design competition, marking a milestone for the Philippines on the global stage, takes center stage in “Gamechangers: A Limited Series,” now streaming on iWant.

Veejay made history as the first Filipina trans woman to win “Project Runway” Season 21, an international fashion design competition, following years of persistence that included multiple auditions before securing a spot on the show.

Produced by Metro Channel, the limited series traces Veejay’s journey from her roots in Manila to her solo debut at New York Fashion Week, detailing the discipline, strategy, and creative vision that shaped her rise in the global fashion industry.

In its second episode, “Gamechangers: A Limited Series” also highlights how Veejay continues to give back through her foundation, supporting aspiring creatives and promoting authenticity and representation in fashion.

Meanwhile, the first episode features Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena, who shares his journey from growing up in a family of athletes to becoming one of the world’s leading performers in the sport.

“Gamechangers: A Limited Series” is produced by Metro Channel and created by Christina N. Lopez, Lala Ventura, and Giselle Interior. The series is directed by Iggy Bilbao, with Stacy Alfonso as producer and River Rosal as writer.

Subscribe to iWant, with plans starting at P35 per month, to watch “Gamechangers: A Limited Series” and discover the stories of Filipinos making their mark across different fields on the global stage.

Enjoy all the feels you want, only on iWant, the largest collection of Filipino feels. Download the app and subscribe via Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Stay updated by following iWant on Facebook, TikTok, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

Langgam Performance Troupe (LPT) opens its 11^th year of independent performance-making with Within and Without End (WAWE), a meta-devised work that reflects on the craft of acting and performance. 

A performance about performers within performers, WAWE commences a trilogy that explores one’s relationship with the theater machine by exploring the metaphysical nature and reality of performance. As an Open Rehearsal, audience members will witness a performer’s transformation, complete with actors’ warm-ups, improv exercises, exchanging of ideas, and run-throughs occasionally interrupted by the director and dramaturg.

WAWE also shapeshifts: not entirely loose, but open enough to arrive at different outcomes with each and every Open Rehearsal, further emphasising the inherent ephemerality of performance.  

WAWE was developed over two years by Opaline Santos, Serena Magiliw, and the late Joel Garcia, who will be joining the performance through his journal. The performance is directed by Jenny Logico-Cruz with dramaturgy by Blonski Cruz, who are also LPT’s artistic director and company manager respectively.

Within And Without End  had its first set of performances in March and experienced generally positive feedback with some glowing online reviews. Here are some excerpts and links to comments about WAWE: 

What surprised me is the openness to reflects that deeply into a certain appreciation of one’s crafts

–       Taken From the actor’s archive: within and without end | by Gio Potes | Mar, 2026 | Medium

what moved me most was the care in the process. the performers were treated deeply as humans. the costumes and objects carried personal meaning. the audience could move with the actors. so much space — physically and emotionally — for thinking and witnessing.

–   EA Torrado, Artistic Director of Daloy Dance Company

Qualities often attributed to restraint and precision in aesthetic projects can also emerge within an open rehearsal process – an honest and highly collaborative inquiry among all the bodies in the room.

–   Sabrina Basilio, Dramaturg and Performance Maker

After a successful run in March, the company would like to give more people the opportunity to join them in an Open Rehearsal within Metro Manila before they take the show to other parts of the country.

WAWE will run on May 8-9 (8pm) at 99 Mahiyain corner Madasalin St. Sikatuna Village, Quezon City. Tickets are available for PHP 800 until March 6, and PHP 1000 afterwards. 

Register tickets here: https://forms.gle/kHxBJPT8hvqaqY1K8

The audience is encouraged to register early as space is limited. The Open Rehearsal may require audience members to take off their shoes and move around the space accordingly with the guide of the creative team. Some aspects of the Open Rehearsal contain nudity.

From early morning jogs to weekend fun runs, more Filipinos are embracing active lifestyles as health and wellness become a growing priority in everyday life. Running, in particular, has long been a go to physical activity in the country — accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community culture — making it a natural choice for individuals seeking both physical and mental well being.

This shift towards more intentional, health focused living reflects a broader movement among Filipinos to stay active, connected, and environmentally conscious; increasingly supported by organizations that recognize the role of technology, community, and sustainability in driving positive change.

“Our initiatives reflect our belief that progress must be purposeful and sustainable. As we continue to expand our 5G infrastructure and deliver world class connectivity, we are also committed to ensuring that our growth supports healthier communities and a greener planet,” said Marjorie Garrovillo, FVP and Co OIC at Smart Communications, Inc (Smart).

Smart continues to champion initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles while advancing environmental responsibility and inclusive digital progress across the country. 

Through strategic partnerships and community driven programs, Smart supports platforms that encourage physical activity, meaningful engagement, and eco conscious action. Among these initiatives are fitness and wellness platforms and events such as the GCash Run, which brought together running, digital innovation, and environmental advocacy. By supporting initiatives that integrate active living with technology enabled engagement, Smart reinforces its long standing commitment to environmental stewardship and its support for initiatives that contribute to climate resilience and the transition towards a circular economy.

Enabling healthier lifestyles through sustainable connectivity

Smart’s support for wellness led initiatives is complemented by its continued investment in next generation connectivity. The company is rapidly expanding its 5G network nationwide to build a more efficient, reliable, and future ready digital ecosystem that supports evolving lifestyle needs.

As 5G adoption accelerates across the Philippines, Smart has reported an 88% year on year increase in full 5G traffic. This growth is driven by the rising number of 5G capable devices on the network, which increased 35% year on year to reach 11.2 million units, now accounting for 19% of total handsets.

The wider availability of affordable 5G devices, combined with ongoing network optimization, is enabling more Filipinos to access faster speeds, lower latency, and more responsive digital experiences — capabilities that increasingly support health and fitness platforms, real time communication, and everyday digital activities.

Award winning network experience

Smart’s continued focus on network excellence has earned global recognition. The company was recently recognized by Ookla® for providing the Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines.

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data, Smart achieved a Video Score of 78.60, allowing subscribers to enjoy seamless 1080p streaming and near instant playback. The Best Mobile Latency award underscores the network’s responsiveness, which is a critical advantage for real time applications such as streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and digital tools that support active and connected lifestyles.

As Filipinos continue to prioritize health, movement, and sustainability, Smart remains committed to enabling progress that goes beyond connectivity by empowering communities to live better today while helping build a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.

“Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0” second big placer Heath Jornales officially steps into the music scene as he launched his debut single “Back To You.”

“No matter how many times that person breaks your heart or ilang beses ka i-reject, you still fall back to them,” Heath shared after performing the song on “It’s Showtime.”

The Sparkle artist composed the pop-acoustic track, while StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos helmed its production. Main and acoustic versions of the song were also released on digital streaming platforms.

Heath will perform his debut single live at the upcoming “Heath Wave: The Ultimate Fan Jam” happening this Sunday (April 19), 7pm at the SM North Edsa Skydome.

SVIP, Patron, and Gen Ad tickets have already been sold out, while limited VIP 1 (P3,499) and VIP 2 (P2,799) tickets are available on SM Tickets.

Let Heath tug at your heartstrings with his debut single “Back To You” available on all digital streaming platforms and don’t miss the “Heath Wave: The Ultimate Fan Jam” happening this Sunday (April 19), 7pm at the SM North Edsa Skydome.

Step into the ring. The official trailer for Street Fighter is now available! The trailer features an unreleased version of “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” by Tupac Shakur created for Mike Tyson in the 1990s. 

Street Fighter is directed by Kitao Sakurai and stars Noah Centineo (Ken Masters), Andrew Koji (Ryu), Callina Liang (Chun-Li), Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoai (Akuma), David Dastmalchian (M. Bison), Cody Rhodes (Guile), Andrew Schulz (Dan Hibiki), Eric André (Don Sauvage), Vidyut Jammwal (Dhalsim), Orville Peck (Vega), Olivier Richters (Zangief), Hirooki Goto (E. Honda), Rayna Vallandingham (Juli), Alexander Volkanovski (Joe), with Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson (Balrog) and Jason Momoa (Blanka; also a co-producer). Street Fighter opens only in cinemas October 14. 

Check out the new posters! 

Synopsis: 

Set in 1993, estranged Street Fighters Ryu (Andrew Koji) and Ken Masters (Noah Centineo) are

thrown back into combat when the mysterious Chun-Li (Callina Liang) recruits them for the next

World Warrior Tournament: a brutal clash of fists, fate, and fury. But behind this battle royale lies a deadly conspiracy that forces them to face off against each other and the demons of their past. And if they don’t, it’s GAME OVER!

Helmed by director Kitao Sakurai, Street Fighter is set to bring the battle from the arcade to the big screen with Hadoukens, roundhouses, and all your favorite characters

Paramount Pictures and Legendary Pictures Present

In Association with Capcom

A Legendary Pictures Production

“STREET FIGHTER”

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY

JJ Hook, Jay Ashenfelter, Kenzo Tsujimoto, Haruhiro Tsujimoto

PRODUCED BY

Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Jason Momoa, Takayuki Nakayama, Stefan Makhoul

Based on the CAPCOM Video Game

STORY BY

Dalan Musson and Gary Dauberman

SCREENPLAY BY

T.J. Fixman and Kitao Sakurai

DIRECTED BY

Kitao Sakurai 

STARRING

 Noah Centineo as “Ken Masters”  

Andrew Koji as “Ryu”  

Callina Liang as “Chun-Li”  

Joe “Roman Reigns” Anoai as “Akuma”  

David Dastmalchian as “M. Bison”  

Cody Rhodes as “Guile”  

Andrew Schulz as “Dan Hibiki”  

Eric André as “Don Sauvage”  

Vidyut Jammwal as “Dhalsim”

Orville Peck as “Vega”  

Olivier Richters as “Zangief”  

Hirooki Goto as “E. Honda”  

Rayna Vallandingham as “Juli” 

Alexander Volkanovski as “Joe”  

With Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson as “Balrog”  

And Jason Momoa as “Blanka”

#StreetFighterMovie

@paramountpicsph

Watch the official trailer:

In line with the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls” SM Supermalls celebrated Women’s Month 2026 through a series of collaborative initiatives that sought to elevate conversations on matters that affect women into meaningful actions.

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, and in partnership with United Nations Philippines, the Philippine Commission on Women, the Quezon City Government, and various civil society and youth organizations, SM led a united effort to empower communities in the advancement of gender equality, maternal health, and social awareness. 

SM malls served as the convergence point where Youth leaders, women’s advocates, government partners, and community organizations gathered to open dialogues that sought to break down barriers, challenge harmful norms, and create more opportunities all for women and girls everywhere.

 “At SM, we continue to create the most-loved spaces where women are empowered to lead, grow, and thrive. Our commitment goes beyond opportunity—it is about building inclusive environments where every woman and girl feels supported, valued, and able to reach her full potential,” said Atty. Pearly Joan Jayagan Turley, Senior Assistant Vice President of SM Supermalls and Program Director for SM Cares for Women and Breastfeeding Mothers.

Purple illumination signals start of Women’s Month

Kicking off women’s month, SM Cares launched an advocacy campaign on March 2, with the iconic SM Mall of Asia Globe illuminated in purple, the global color symbolizing dignity and justice for women. The lighting served as a powerful visual call to action that launched the month-long advocacy and reinforced public awareness of the International Women’s Day campaign. 

Youth leadership at the center of International Women’s Day celebration

The centerpiece of the month-long celebration was the International Women’s Day 2026 Youth Celebration, titled “Youth Rising: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” held on March 10 at the SM North EDSA Skydome. The landmark gathering convened young leaders, advocates, and organizations to engage in discussions on gender equality, climate justice, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and gender-based violence prevention. 

The event featured panel discussions, TED-style talks, and a Challenge and Solutions Lab, with 47 youth organizations and schools such as National University Fairview, Nazareth, and Ortigas; the National Youth Commission; Philippine Science High School Main Campus and Central Luzon Campus, as well as the University of the Philippines Los Baños—all collaborating to develop ideas for advancing equality and justice. 

Supporting women’s health through “Gatas ng Buhay”

As part of its Women’s Month activities, SM Cares also supported maternal and child health through the “Gatas ng Buhay” milk-letting activity held on March 20 at SM Fairview in partnership with the Quezon City Human Milk Bank and Quezon City General Hospital. 

The program featured expert-led sessions on breastfeeding guidance, newborn care, maternal nutrition, and the importance of human milk banking, while also conducting a simultaneous milk-letting activity to support infants in need.

This year’s milk letting activity yielded more than 18,000 ml of breast milk that could feed around 75 babies in a day—23% higher than the previous year.

Be part of the movement for gender equality—join SM Cares in supporting programs that empower women and girls and help build more inclusive communities. Learn more at https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

The legendary music icon, currently on tour and renowned for his velvety voice and timeless ballads, has captivated audiences worldwide for over six decades. Engelbert Humperdinck is best known for his iconic hit Release Me, which topped charts in 11 countries and remained in the UK Top 50 for an impressive 56 weeks. His illustrious catalogue includes enduring classics such as Am I That Easy to Forget, Quando Quando Quando, A Man Without Love, The Last Waltz, and Spanish Eyes.

More recently, his 1968 hit A Man Without Love has enjoyed a resurgence, reaching new audiences after being featured in Marvel’s Moon Knight starring Oscar Isaac, as well as in the action film Bullet Train starring Brad Pitt.

With over 150 million records sold worldwide and a remarkable string of No. 1 hits—including the legendary 1967 smash Release Me—Engelbert Humperdinck remains one of the world’s most beloved performers. A recent Grammy nominee and recipient of numerous accolades, including stars on the Hollywood and Las Vegas Walks of Fame, he continues to be celebrated for his rich, velvety voice and charismatic stage presence.

 “I’ve always loved coming to Asia—the energy and warmth of the audiences are truly special,” he shared. “I’m thrilled to bring these songs to my fans in various parts of Aisa, and especially Manila this September.”

“The Legend Continues – Engelbert Humperdinck – TheCelebration Tour 2026”in Manila will take place at the New Frontier Theater on 25 September 2026 at 8:00 PM. Tickets for this special one-night event are available at P12,800 (Platinum), P11,800 (SVIP), P10,500 (VIP), P8,000 (Gold), P5,500 (Silver), P2,500 (Bronze). Tickets go on sale exclusively via www.ticketnet.com.ph at 12:00pm on Friday, 1 May 2026. A limited number of tickets will be available, so fans are encouraged to book early through the official ticketing site.

“The Legend Continues – Engelbert Humperdinck – The Celebration Tour 2026” is set to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to enjoy his timeless music live. The tour not only marks his triumphant return to Southeast Asia, but also celebrates his latest studio work, with songs from All About Love reinterpreting classics from the Great American Songbook. Promoters say audiences should expect a grand show befitting the legend’s illustrious career.

NUSTAR Online takes center stage as a major sponsor of Billboard Philippines Women in Music 2026, reinforcing its commitment to supporting culture, creativity, and premium entertainment experiences, especially in celebration of Women’s Month.

Held at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater at BGC Arts Center, the annual celebration honors the women shaping the sound, direction, and future of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). The event gathers influential artists, industry leaders, and cultural tastemakers, recognizing outstanding achievements while fostering meaningful conversations around creativity, leadership, and impact in music.

For NUSTAR Online, the partnership reflects a natural alignment with its positioning as a luxury lifestyle gaming platform that goes beyond play. By supporting a platform that uplifts Filipina voices, the brand strengthens its connection to a dynamic and influential creative community—one that continues to redefine modern Filipino culture.

“NUSTAR Online is proud to be part of a celebration that champions excellence, empowerment, and artistry,” the brand shares. “This partnership allows us to engage with inspiring women who drive both industry and cultural conversations, while further expanding our presence across entertainment and lifestyle spaces.”

Adding to the experience, NUSTAR Online hosted a photobooth at the event, allowing attendees to engage with the brand while waiting outside the theater. The team also produced on-ground content for its NUSTAR Online: Exclusives series, capturing key moments and highlights from the event and giving audiences a closer look at the celebration across its social media platforms.

This year’s Billboard Philippines Women in Music honored some of the country’s most influential and groundbreaking artists. Among the awardees were KAIA for Listener’s Choice, Ashtine Olviga for People’s Choice, KZ Tandingan as Rule Breaker, G22 as Rising Star, Yeng Constantino as Hitmaker, BINI as Powerhouse, Lolita Carbon as Icon, and Regine Velasquez as Woman of the Year.

Through this collaboration, NUSTAR Online continues to elevate its role not just as a gaming platform, but as a brand that celebrates artistry, empowers communities, and supports the evolving landscape of Filipino entertainment.

For more exclusive content, events, and premium lifestyle experiences, follow NUSTAR Online on social media at @nustaronline. 

About NUSTAR Online

NUSTAR Online is the Philippines’ premier luxury lifestyle gaming and entertainment platform, licensed under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Built on innovation, elegance, and responsible gaming, it offers a premium digital environment with curated casino games, exclusive content, and user-focused rewards—redefining how Filipinos experience online entertainment. Designed for both modern and seasoned players, NUSTAR Online delivers world-class play through style, safety, and convenience. Players can visit www.nustargame.com or follow @nustaronline on social media. New users may also enjoy up to ₱6,566 in bonus credits upon registration and up to 1% Cashback daily.

Fans, get ready for a fantastic opening number from Bamboo, Darren, Jason Dy, and Jarlo Base with G-Force and MNVRS Ignite. 

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid will celebrate her special day with a powerful birthday performance together with Ogie Alcasid, Yeng Constantino, Jona, and Klarisse De Guzman. 

Witness a grand celebration performance from “Your Face Sounds Familiar” Season 4 grand winners JM dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano, to be joined by Zsa Zsa Padilla, Alexa Ilacad, Kai Montinola, and Carmelle Collado.

Heating the “ASAP” stage is a hot number from fierce ladies Maymay Entrata, AC Bonifacio, and Jane De Leon with G-Force. 

Prepare your energy to sing-along with the new gen divas Alexa, Kai, Esang De Torres, and Elha Nympha.

Bringing the best of OPM to the stage is a remarkable concert from Gary Valenciano with Mapua Cardinal Singers. Back-to-back with an exceptional OPM act from Erik Santos and Angeline Quinto with trending duo El Manu and Jessy Kang. 

Get ready to feel the love in a one-of-a-kind duet performance from Martin Nievera and Moira. 

Expect even more thrilling surprises as KD Estrada, Jarren Garcia, and Christof come together to serenade the fans.

Wrapping up the wonderful free concert experience is an all-star band finale number from Martin, Gary, Regine, Ogie, Zsa Zsa, Erik, Angeline, Yeng, Robi Domingo, Darren, Jason, Esang, Elha, Nyoy Volante, Khimo Gumatay, and Klarisse.

Serving as the hosts this weekend are Robi, Darren, and Alexa.

Catch the country’s longest-running and award-winning musical variety show, “ASAP,” on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2.

Kapamilyas can also watch “ASAP” on Kapamilya Online Live, Jeepney TV, A2Z, iWant, and TFC.

Bicol-born singer-songwriter dwta makes a fearless statement with “Tabi!,” a genre-blurring track released on the same day as her birthday. While the song marks a vital shift in sonic direction and imagery, the song remains grounded in the artist’s unmistakable voice, showing artistic renewal and transformation.

Long recognized for her softer, introspective sound and earnest songwriting, dwta melds alt-pop sensibilities with folk textures, country-inspired banjo strums, driving percussions, and grunge-inflected electric guitars. The result is surprisingly a cohesive piece of work—one whose fearless new energy and quirks bring out the best in her.

“As I spend more time in the scene, I get exposed to so many creatives and different sounds,” the acclaimed Filipino artist explains. “Naturally, I pick up influences along the way and my sound just evolves with it. Tabi! is a reflection of that growth. You’ve already heard my softer side, so this time I wanted to show something bolder and more confident. It’s still me, just with a different energy.”

Now with a sharper edge and a more confident voice, dwta explores new dimensions of expression on her latest release, drawing from her experiences growing up in the countryside and embracing the formative years that eventually shaped her into the artist that she is now. In reconnecting with her roots, dwta reclaims a piece of her that had, at times, felt distant in her recent work. 

In “Tabi!,” her past and present converge to reveal a new version of her, becoming both a homecoming and reckoning all at once. dwta admits, “Tabi! feels like coming back to myself remembering who I am, where I came from, and things I experienced growing up in the province. It’s like I’m finally making space for a stronger version of me.”

Thematically, “Tabi!” reframes departure not as a form of loss, but as an act of courage and self-preservation. 

“I want people to feel like it’s okay to walk away from anything that disrupts their peace,” the Sony Music Entertainment artist shares. “Whether it’s a toxic relationship, a bad habit, or even a friendship, it’s okay to let go. It doesn’t make you weak; it actually makes you stronger. The vibe I imagine is like those action movie endings where you walk away while everything explodes behind you. That sense of freedom and power is what I want people to feel.”

dwta’s “Tabi!” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.