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Articles by Kelsey Telo
IV of Spades fans gush over ‘Come Inside of My Heart’ international success on TikTok
IV of Spades’ four-year-old track resurfaced online at a wildfire rate across the globe. It first entered TikTok’s Billboard Top 50 in September and stayed until the first few weeks of October. Big international accounts such as WNBA, Netflix and Marie Claire have used the song as a sound, while the NFL in particular used it multiple times.
Ely Buendia reinvents self with ‘Method Adaptor,’ embracing a new era in OPM
12 hours ago Something has changed inside North Korea THE KAESONG Industrial Complex in North Korea has long symbolised hopes for peace and unity on the Korean peninsula.
Eyebrows raised over Quiboloy's senatorial bid
Doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy’s filing of the certificate of candidacy this week earned criticisms on social media. This comes shortly after the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder turned himself in to the authorities on charges of sex trafficking and sexual abuse of minors, among others. Pinoys online could not help but express dismay and anger at the senatorial aspirant and the systems that allowed him to file his COC.
Fil-Am YouTuber’s Philippine cinema roast ruffles Pinoy Feathers
A video essay made by a Filipino-American Youtuber One Down criticizing Philippine cinema has earned the irk of some Pinoys online. The 14-minute cultural analysis attempts to explore how Filipino-produced movies supposedly fare poorly compared to those from other countries such as India, South Korea, and Nigeria. Many Filipinos online expressed their frustrations over the think piece, saying it was not written with enough research and sensitivity.
Fil-Am YouTuber’s Philippine cinema roast ruffles Pinoy Feathers
1 hour ago Party-list group Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabansa submits its certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA) at the Manila Hotel on Sunday, October 6. #PHVote #AmbagNatin #BeTheChange Get live updates: https://bit.ly/COCfiling
Why influencer Rosmar's Manila councilor bid is gaining buzz
Some new names and old ones emerged on the first day of the filing of certificate of candidacy (COC) for the 2025 midterm elections. Content creator Rosemarie Tan Pamulaklakin or Rosmar Tan, known for her vlogs and enterprises, is one of the candidates who earned various reactions online.
Hiked ‘Mt. Ortigas’?: Pinoys online cry foul over MRT Ortigas Station’s stairs
Man kept 34kg pearl under his bed for 10 years without realizing it was worth a staggering amount A fisherman has admitted to keeping a pearl under his bed for a decade, which could be the largest natural pearl ever found in history. The man, from …
Appreciating the alt edge of Yudip*t*’s drag
The self-proclaimed “glamorous aswang” of “Drag Race Philippines” (“DRPH”) Season 3 has offered the reality show a taste of refined branding. One of the drag contestants, Yuidip*t*’s unexpected exit from the season, however, shocked some fans who knew she had so much more to offer. On the fourth episode of the reality contest, the Bacolod queen walked out during a lip sync battle withcontender, J Quinn, ultimately eliminating herself.
Drag fans gush over Mama Pao’s lethal 'face card' on 'Drag Race Philippines'
As the latest season of “Drag Race Philippines” unfolds, its host, Mama Pao or Paolo Ballesteros continues to prove that she is “mother”. Her look on Season 3, episode 4 of the reality show convinced many Filipinos online that she has always been the rightful host of the successful franchise. MAMA PAO⁉️🤍💜#DragRacePH pic.twitter.com/pJKwCfPGwv — Drag Fans Philippines (@DragFansPH) September 4, 2024 Pinoys online raved about Paolo’s mug, even comparing her makeup look to Barbie and some celebrities.
Meet VP Sara Duterte’s TikTok impersonator, ‘Inday Tasha’
She may not look exactly like Vice President Sara Duterte but the resemblance is uncanny. Called Inday Tasha, impersonator Tasha Geronda has garnered a following of 300,000 on TikTok, capitalizing on her look resembling the vice president. @indaytasha23Thank you for the love and support🌸♬ original sound – inday tasha Tasha usually sports attire in UniTeam green-color and puts her right hand on her chest to get in character.
Lens man Geloy Concepcion’s day-in-the-life series with daughter endears Pinoys
Photographer Geloy Concepcion first got his big break with his project “Things you wanted to say but never did” which gave an avenue to anonymous grieving hearts worldwide. Outside his artistic persona, Geloy now shares some snippets of his life online with daughter Narra, endearing Pinoys online with their father-daughter bond. Geloy and Narra usually spend their free mornings riding a bike to a breakfast place before heading to the park.
Why Marvin Agustin is being dubbed as 'Ryan Reynolds of the Philippines'
Actor turned restaurateur Marvin Agustin’s name is making rounds online for reasons more than his “August 10” meme. READ: ‘JulyNa’ naman: Marvin Agustin, social media ride Jolina Magdangal July 1 meme trend TikTok users unearthed some of the former actor’s roles in comedy and drama, which instantly became a source of comic relief to many. He is now a successful restaurateur.
Filipinos test NEDA's P64 daily food 'threshold' Original
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has clarified that the widely criticized P64 daily food budget is merely a threshold and is not intended to prescribe meal plans. Prior to this, some Filipinos online took matters into their own hands, demanding clarification from the agency—because, for them, the numbers just didn’t add up.
TikTok user translates Gen Z terms into Filipino
Who knew internet lingo could sound good in Filipino? TikTok user @mykee.mae showed how some widely used internet slang by Gen Zs could be used in the native language just in time for Buwan ng Wika. @mykee.maeHELP ūüė≠‚ô¨ Funny Quirky Comedy – Redafs She translated ‚ÄúAte and left no crumbs,‚ÄĚ which is a way to say ‚Äúyou did that so well‚ÄĚ to ‚ÄúKinain mo ‚Äėyan at wala kang tinirang mumo‚ÄĚ. Among others, the TikTok user also mentioned ‚Äúglow up‚ÄĚ which she said is ‚Äúlumiwanag‚ÄĚ in Tagalog.
Pinoys online recognize EJ Obiena's flair for words
Asia’s top pole vaulter EJ Obiena showed another side of himself during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Aside from his athletic persona, Pinoys noticed the pole vaulter’s knack for words and clarity of mind. Some Pinoys online unearthed his 2021 column on The Philippine Star where he wrote about the mammoth support it takes to win an Olympic medal. He also bared the inner workings of the sport as an industry, and the practical systems in place that either hinder or nurture him. “Athlete na, writer pa?
BINI Maloi spotted wearing ‘katsa fashion’
Fans spotted BINI Maloi Ricalde wearing a cute top made of a flour sack at the recent KCON in Los Angeles, California. Turns out, the P-POP girl group member had been rocking the “katsa fashion” for a while now. OUTFIT NI MALOI FROM WHEAT FLOUR? 😂😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/jZTQCOIurS — cowlet (oa) (@smolmidoring) August 1, 2024 The viral post on X with 45,000 likes and 915,000 views earned positive reaction from fans, admiring Maloi’s original and stylish quirks. “Upcycling queen?!?!” an X user quipped.
Who’s who: Pinoys’ bet if singing is an Olympic sport
Who’s your bet? Among the barrage of Olympics memes came a hauling of Pinoy Olympian bets—in an imaginary world where singing was a coveted sport. “If singing was a part of the Olympics, who would your country send to compete?” an online user asked on X (formerly Twitter).
'Brazilippines' phenomenon brews online as Brazil, Philippines rejoice in solidarity over Olympics win
It was not only Filipinos who rejoiced when gymnast Carlos Yulo bagged back-to-back gold medals at the Paris Olympics 2024. Brazilians also expressed genuine support for the country’s historic feat at the Games, in spirit of what they call “Brazilippines” sisterhood. “A Filipino won a gold medal and it’s gold for Brazil too because we are cousins,” a Brazilian X (formerly Twitter) user wrote.
Budots goes international on TikTok
From the streets of the Philippines to TikTok videos all around the world, budots has come a long way. “Emergency”, a budots remix created by DJ Johnrey of “Dr. Beat” by Gloria Estefan, currently has hundreds of thousands of entries under its sound on the app. Some are budots dance while others are outfit videos. Pop star Olivia Rodrigo showed some of her GUTS world tour outfits using the trend.
‘Ilang taon na’: Filipinos fed up about flooding post-‘Carina’
The flooding in Metro Manila last week brought up not only garbage woes but also glaring issues on flood control. Some Filipinos, who bear the brunt of frequent flooding, took to social media to express wider calls for better solutions in the wake of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon rains. Writer Jerry Gracio remembered past typhoons when Filipinos fated the same tragedy that cost properties and lives.
‘Umbagang Pilipinas’: Effigy at SONA 2024 denounces ‘Bongbong vs Sara’ strife
Called “Umbagang Pilipinas”, the effigy created by rallyists for the third State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. depicted the brewing rivalry between the president and the vice president. Its name is a jab at the administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” branding. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) wanted to call attention to the plight of Filipinos swept under the supposed feud between Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte.
Simple Filipiniana, black gown, ethnic wear: What women wore at SONA 2024
Simplicity reigned during this year’s red carpet for the State of the Nation Address 2024. Even fashion icon Heart Evangelista said herself that she wanted to dress simple for the day. Nevertheless, women who attended the third SONA of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. still made interesting fashion choices where Filipino designers shone.
Pinoys flock TikTok star Devin Halbal's MOA fan meet
“Mabuhay kudasai!” TikTok creator Devin Halbal thanked her Filipino fans for coming to her recent meet-and-greet event at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. “I’m going to start crying because the Philippines has been one of my biggest supporters since the ‘Doll check-in’ era, from when I only made videos in speaking English,” Devin wrote. Pinoy fans also expressed their support online, pouring in comments on her Instagram post. “THIS IS MARIA CLARAA Y’ALLLL,” one user commented.
Johnoy Danao gives BINI’s ‘Salamin, Salamin’ a ‘relapse’ rendition
Renowned OPM singer-songwriter Johnoy Danao released on TikTok an acoustic cover of BINI’s hit song “Salamin, Salamin”. Known for “Ikaw at Ako”, among other somber love songs, Johnoy gave the song an interesting spin. @johnoydanao late na ba ako? @BINI PH ♬ original sound – johnoy danao With 300,000 likes and 1.9 million views so far, Pinoys flocked to Johnoy’s comment section in praise of the unexpected treat. “Ba’t ganon nakakakilig na nakakaiyak???? HAHAAHAHA,” a TikTok user wrote.
‘Unmatched era’: Kathryn Bernardo, Nadine Lustre, Liza Soberano’s 2010s reign reminisced
Filipino entertainment was on a roll during the 2010s with back-to-back movie hits starring Kathryn Bernardo, Nadine Lustre and Liza Soberano. While these women have since taken new heights in their respective careers, that era remains beloved and unmatched, according to many Pinoys. A Pinoy social media user took to X (formerly Twitter) to reminisce about the movies that defined a generation’s teenage years, as well as catapulted the trio to elite status.
‘Unserious queen’: BLOOMs collate BINI Sheena’s quirky moments
BINI Sheena Catacutan is the girl group’s resident “kalog” queen, according to fans collectively called BLOOMs. With their recent three-day concert concluding, fans could not help but collate Sheena’s most memorable quirky moments. First off, Sheena’s interaction with the production crew at their concert.
Munimuni to stage their biggest concert yet
With a promise of a creative musical experience, Munimuni returns onstage for their third concert “ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert” set on July 20 at Villamor Hall, UP Theater Complex in Diliman, Quezon City. The indie-folk band will play their latest songs from the album of the same name, along with some old hits. This will be their biggest concert yet in scale and production compared to their first two in 2018 and 2019.
Why more Filipinos are entering 'running era'
Running this year came in vogue among Filipinos regardless of their fitness level. What’s interesting in the increased interest in running is all the various reasons why more and more people get into their “running era.” Whether for serious business or for fun, some people find solace in what others may consider a penance. One telling sign that running is in vogue is the crowds that flock to events.
Pinoys' viral videos get int'l attention
A clip of two TikTokers during their livestream went viral for their Filipino “kanal” humor (low-end humor) —something that some people from other Southeast Asian countries have started to notice. “The Philippines is already the most EXTRA in Southeast Asia 😭😭😭😭,” one Indonesian X (formerly Twitter) user wrote.
Rundown: Films that helped shape local queer cinema, according to Pinoys
In celebration of Pride month, some Filipinos online remembered iconic movies that paved the way for diverse LGBT representation in the entertainment industry. From telling untold struggles to shaping public opinion, some local movies are credited for laying groundwork for where Pinoy queer cinema is right now—and where it is headed in the future. Online personality AC Soriano took to X (formerly Twitter) to acknowledge the contribution of late comedian Dolphy Quizon in queer-centric storytelling.
‘Morena representation’: Denise Julia dedicates 1st live TV performance to brown-skinned girls
R&B singer Denise Julia performed on live television for the first time last week. The musician shared that her guesting on “ASAP Natin’To” last June 2 was not only a dream-come-true but also an opportunity to represent morenas or brown-skinned girls. “I grew up watching ASAP every Sunday. Literally every. Sunday. Hoping one day I get to see morena representation in an entertainment industry that so often favors light-skinned artists and public figures,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
BINI Maloi's strut at All-Star Games goes viral
BINI member Maloi Ricalde always brings out character in anything she does with BINI. At the recently-concluded Star Magic All-Star Games 2024 where they performed “Karera” and “Pantropiko”, she stole the show with her entrance—for good and hilarious reasons. In the viral video, Maloi is seen strutting and missing her staging mark at the center of Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Bullet Dumas to make music comeback with ‘Nananatili’ concert
With a vocal power that could fill a room with just his guitar, Bullet Dumas returns to the stage with a promise of something more, a solo concert. After focusing on acting, he teased a new dimension to his music that he picked up from the theater stage. “Hindi basta-basta lang…mas collaborative,” Bullet said, talking about how being meshed together with the theater community levelled up his craft. “Grabe ‘yung proseso ko dito. Hindi ko siya minadali,” he added.
‘La Luna Sangre’ trends after Russian kid learns Filipino from watching it on YouTube
“‘La Luna Sangre’ supremacy!” The 2017 television series, starring Kathryn Bernardo and Angel Locsin, trended on X (formerly Twitter) following a viral post claiming that a seven-year-old Russian learned to speak Filipino language from watching the show on YouTube. “Please don’t give your children iPads. One of my nieces, a 7-year-old who has never been outside of the Caucasus, began speaking Tagalog,” the X user wrote. “We couldn’t converse with her.
Vice Ganda lauded for raising societal issues in viral ‘Piliin mo ang Pilipinas' entry
“It’s Showtime” host and comedian Vice Ganda once again proved that she is the “Unkabogable” queen of Philippine media with her entry for the “Piliin mo ang Pilipinas” trend. RELATED: TikTok creator Lenie Aycardo doubles down on ‘Piliin mo ang Pilipinas’ trend | ‘Asoka’ makeup trend: What we know about the viral TikTok challenge Donning on-brand “Meme Vice” looks and elegant Filipiniana gowns, she took the trend up a notch by shedding light on some of the country’s most pressing societal issues.
TikTok creator Lenie Aycardo doubles down on ‘Piliin mo ang Pilipinas’ trend
Content creator Lenie Aycardo wowed social media with her latest TikTok entry for the “Piliin mo ang Pilipinas” trend. With big production value and various transformations featuring Philippine cultures, her followers were amazed not only by her but also her team. “Napakahusay talaga ng team nya grabe,” wrote one Filipino on X (formerly Twitter). In the TikTok video, she transformed into a princess of the Maranao people, an indigenous Filipina, a tribesman of Kalinga, and then into Maria Clara.
Filipinos question gov’t fish importation plan
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has allowed up to 25,000 metric tons of frozen fish imported into the Philippines for the last quarter of the year. Some Filipinos took to social media to express dismay over the move, stating how ironic that an archipelagic country would need fish from other countries. “An agricultural country that imports rice & a country that is surrounded by water that imports fish means we have tragically inept leaders,” wrote on X (formerly Twitter) user.
Banksy event in BGC prompts protest art discussion
Banksy is an anonymous street artist known to make anti-establishment graffiti art in cities like London and Los Angeles. This week, a museum in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City teasing an event called “Banksy Universe” sent social media abuzz with both excitement and critique. READ: Banksy Universe?
Pinoy pharmacists explain prescription vs over-the-counter drugs amid viral pharmacy video
Filipino pharmacists took to social media to clarify the difference between prescription and over-the-counter drugs, following a viral Facebook video of a customer trying to buy Rx-labeled medication without prescription. The now-deleted original video has reached various medical professionals who raised concerns on the uploader’s aggression—as well as the unchecked pharmaceutical practices that led to this situation.
What we know about the viral TikTok challenge
“Asoka”, a 2001 bollywood movie starring Kareena Kapoor has inspired a makeup trend of the same name on video-sharing platform TikTok. Content creators who upload their own versions of the trend let the viewers along with the makeup preparation, as they sing to an original “Asoka” theme song “San Sanana”. These videos are paired with fast-paced cinematic transitions and feature a stunning Indian bridal makeup as the end result.
Meet the Pinay who teaches Philippine biodiversity one video at a time
Environmentalist Celine Murillo is dedicated to educating people on the Philippine biodiversity. With her videos featuring trees, fruits and animals found in the country, Murillo has captured an audience online who tune in to her adventures. Her top liked video, an explainer on Philippine native berries on TikTok, amassed over 240,000 likes and 4.1 million views.
Discourse about post on NYC virtual cashier from Philippines
A viral post on X, formerly Twitter, showing a virtual cashier in a New York City restaurant phoning all the way from the Philippines has opened a conversation on “exploitation.” X User @thatguybg’s post garnered over 41,000 likes and 18.9 million views as of writing.
'Mother Uge's' works remembered
Actress Eugene “Mother Uge” Domingo is an institution in Philippine showbiz, no less. As a prolific comedienne, her body of work showcases some of the strongest moments in Philippine comedy—and a social media user took the effort to round up her brilliant and laugh-out-loud scenes. Interested in enrolling into Eugene Domingo studies? Get ready to be schooled.
Educational shows Filipinos want back on TV
Some Filipinos had a dose of nostalgia online as they reminisced about iconic television shows of late ’90s to early 2000s. From the game show “Kapamilya Deal or No Deal” to the late-night newscast “Bandila”, one X (formerly Twitter) user wrote a thread on remarkable theme songs and opening billboards that used to score a whole generation’s childhood. some of iconic philippine tv show/radio theme songs – a thread 1.
Why Pinoys are opposing MIAA's plan to remove gang chairs at NAIA-3 arrival lobby
Some metal gang chairs have been removed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 arrival hall, ahead of plans to permanently remove all of them. While the said chairs are being cleaned at the moment, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) said that they are scheduled to remove all the gang chairs at the NAIA-3 arrival lobby after the Holy Week. “We can no longer distinguish between legitimate welcomers and strangers who just want to make themselves comfortable.
A not-so-nonchalant explainer
You’ve met a nonchalant or two in your life. There’s a chance you yourself are one. But what does it mean? And why is it thrown so casually around online? In one viral Facebook post, one Filipino poked fun answering the question: “Ano ba ‘yung nonchalant?” The response was SB19’s song “MAPA” which goes “nonchalant chalant chalant”. Funny knock-knock, but not quite it. Nonchalant by definition characterizes a person who appears more calm and relaxed as expected.
AFP urged to address domestic abuse allegations among ranks
A wife of an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officer stepped forward and reported an alleged abuse she experienced from her husband. Due to this, Tessa Luz Reyes-Sevilla, wife of military official Ranulfo Sevilla, called on the AFP to address domestic abuse and called for an investigation among their ranks, as she claimed that she is not the only one with such experience. “Hindi po ako nandito para sirain ang institusyon. Gusto ko pong itama ang pagkakamali natin.
SMC asked amid Skyway connector plan for NAIA rehab
A consortium led by San Miguel Corp. (SMC) unveiled plans of building a Skyway connector as part of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport rehabilitation under the government’s private-public partnership. SMC president and chief executive officer Ramong Ang said this Skyway connector seeks to address traffic congestion problems. The plan drew flak among some Filipinos online who think that toll projects are car-centric and will not benefit commuters.
TikTok dubs trending singer Shaira the 'Queen of Bangsamoro Pop'
Breakout singer Shaira was catapulted to online fame by her viral song “Selos” with no big-name management or promotion. Through catchy tunes and striking lyrics, Shaira Moro, who hails from Mindanao is now being dubbed “Queen of Bangsamoro Pop” on social media. “No promo. No album. No mall tours. No TV guestings. No 200 dogs. Just pure B-Pop excellence,” wrote one Filipino on X (formerly Twitter). Shaira has over 310,000 monthly listeners on Spotify so far.
Lotto manipulation claims raised anew amid report of bettor winning 20 times in a month
Filipinos online raised speculations of possible manipulation in lotto winners following reports of a lone better who won 20 times in a month. On Tuesday, Sen. Raffy Tulfo bared that a single bettor won 20 times in one month, based on a list of winners submitted by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to the Senate. “Bakit tuwing draw, may nananalo na? Ngayon, walang mintis.
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