EastWest, foodpanda, and Visa launch a credit card built for food lovers

 

EastWest, foodpanda, and Visa jointly introduced their cobranded credit card at a launch event held in Makati City, where they welcomed media friends for a first look at the new product. It is positioned as the Ultimate Foodie Card for food lovers seeking an instantly rewarding experience for everyday cravings.

The EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card offers up to 10 percent cashback on foodpanda orders worth up to Php 4,000 (or cash back worth PHp 400) after which, foodpanda orders will continue to earn 3 percent. It also gives 1 percent cash back on all international spend and 0.3 percent on local transactions, with a total monthly cashback cap of Php 1,000 to be credited weekly to the user’s pandapay wallet. These features bring real-time value to one of today’s most popular digital lifestyles.

“This partnership brings together three brands that drive convenience, value, and digital innovation,” said Jerry Ngo, Chief Executive Officer of EastWest. “At EastWest, we continue to build financial solutions around real daily habits. The EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card is another way we make banking easier, turning every meal into a moment of value.” 

Built on a shared goal of creating connected experiences, the card is designed to simplify how customers pay, order, and enjoy their everyday essentials. It offers full digital application through the foodpanda app or EastWest AI chatbot ESTA, with approved cards delivered straight to customers and ready for use across all Visa-accepted channels, online or in-store. It also streamlines everyday spending with automatic weekly cashback.

Every new cardholder gets a waived annual fee for the first year, and the first 50,000 approved applicants unlock six months of free pandapro membership plus exclusive vouchers for extra rewards.

“This collaboration is truly the perfect recipe for everyday delight,” said Daniel Jaramillo, Managing Director of foodpanda Philippines. “We believe that every transaction deserves the best reward—food. With the new card and its weekly cashback, our customers get to treat themselves to the food they love, and enjoy instant wins with every purchase."

“Visa is proud to power this partnership, expanding secure, contactless, and rewarding payment options for Filipino consumers,” added Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Head. “Together with EastWest and foodpanda, we’re enabling the next wave of digital payments in the Philippines.”

The launch supports the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ digital payments roadmap, which targets 70 percent adoption by 2030, and aligns with EastWest’s strategy to embed banking within the everyday digital ecosystems of Filipinos.

To learn more or apply, visit the foodpanda app or www.ewlend.com/esta.

About East West Banking Corporation

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name. For more information, visit www.eastwestbanker.com.

About foodpanda

foodpanda Philippines currently operates in 192 cities and municipalities across the Philippines and is continuously expanding. foodpanda is a subsidiary under Delivery Hero, a worldwide leader of the food delivery industry. For more information, visit www.foodpanda.ph. 

Through the foodpanda website or via the new iOS and Android apps, customers can enter their address and view a curated list of restaurants and shops serving their neighborhood. Once they have found their choice, they can place an order in the comfort of their home or office, paying online through foodpanda’s secure platform or via cash-on-delivery The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant or shop, picked up by the foodpanda rider and delivered straight to their doorstep.

EastWest, foodpanda, and Visa launch a credit card built for food lovers

 

The new EastWest foodpanda Credit Card, powered by Visa.

 

 

EastWest, foodpanda, and Visa jointly introduced their cobranded credit card at a launch event held in Makati City, where they welcomed media friends for a first look at the new product. It is positioned as the Ultimate Foodie Card for food lovers seeking an instantly rewarding experience for everyday cravings.

 

The EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card offers up to 10 percent cashback on foodpanda orders worth up to Php 4,000 (or cash back worth PHp 400) after which, foodpanda orders will continue to earn 3 percent. It also gives 1 percent cash back on all international spend and 0.3 percent on local transactions, with a total monthly cashback cap of Php 1,000 to be credited weekly to the user’s pandapay wallet. These features bring real-time value to one of today’s most popular digital lifestyles.

 

“This partnership brings together three brands that drive convenience, value, and digital innovation,” said Jerry Ngo, Chief Executive Officer of EastWest. “At EastWest, we continue to build financial solutions around real daily habits. The EastWest foodpanda Visa Credit Card is another way we make banking easier, turning every meal into a moment of value.”

 

Built on a shared goal of creating connected experiences, the card is designed to simplify how customers pay, order, and enjoy their everyday essentials. It offers full digital application through the foodpanda app or EastWest AI chatbot ESTA, with approved cards delivered straight to customers and ready for use across all Visa-accepted channels, online or in-store. It also streamlines everyday spending with automatic weekly cashback.

 

Every new cardholder gets a waived annual fee for the first year, and the first 50,000 approved applicants unlock six months of free pandapro membership plus exclusive vouchers for extra rewards.

 

“This collaboration is truly the perfect recipe for everyday delight,” said Daniel Jaramillo, Managing Director of foodpanda Philippines. “We believe that every transaction deserves the best reward—food. With the new card and its weekly cashback, our customers get to treat themselves to the food they love, and enjoy instant wins with every purchase."

 

“Visa is proud to power this partnership, expanding secure, contactless, and rewarding payment options for Filipino consumers,” added Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Head. “Together with EastWest and foodpanda, we’re enabling the next wave of digital payments in the Philippines.”

 

The launch supports the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ digital payments roadmap, which targets 70 percent adoption by 2030, and aligns with EastWest’s strategy to embed banking within the everyday digital ecosystems of Filipinos.

 

To learn more or apply, visit the foodpanda app or www.ewlend.com/esta.

 

About East West Banking Corporation

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name. For more information, visit www.eastwestbanker.com.

Fuel your grind with the “Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap” goodness of SB19’s go-to snack

 

 From late night grinds, early calls, side gigs, and everything in between, most Pinoys are always on the move. But in a world where the hustle never stops, sometimes a quick pause coupled with a flavorful, huwow-worthy snack can help keep one going.

With a lineup that includes favorites like Chicken Skin ni Mang Juan and Chicharron ni Mang Juan in classic Filipino flavors, Mang Juan is a truly Pinoy snack that can help fuel one’s grind.

Aside from the classic flavors that Pinoys, including P-pop Kings SB19, enjoy, Mang Juan introduces another reason to keep snacking: the light and crispy seafood flavors of Kropek ni Mang Juan.

Packed with “Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap” goodness, every crunchy bite of Kropek ni Mang Juan brings a new twist on the usual seafood flavors, while still staying true to what makes Mang Juan a Filipino favorite.

Whether you're into sweet-salty snacks or chips with a hint of spice, your cravings are covered with Kropek ni Mang Juan’s Sweet Chili Hipon and Spicy Fried Pusit flavors. These seafood-flavored snacks are light, flavorful, and proudly Pinoy, made to match your drive and fire. The Sweet Chili Hipon delivers that tamis-alat kick that hits just right, while Spicy Fried Pusit brings a saktong anghang, asim at alat that wakes up your senses.

And when it comes to hustling, who better to relate to than SB19? The P-pop kings know the grind all too well—with rehearsals, tours, and shoots that usually require peak energy and passion. “Nakakapagod ang training at rehearsals namin, pero worth it para sa mga A’TIN,” shares Stell. “That’s why it’s nice to have a snack like Mang Juan na talagang nakakagana sa sarap.”

So whether you're in study mode or gearing up for another long day, fuel your grind and grab a bite of Mang Juan for that “Huwow!” snacking experience.

If you haven’t tried SB19’s go-to snack, Mang Juan, this is your sign to try it for yourself. Just like them, fuel your grind with the nakaka-Huwow sa Pinoy Sarap goodness of Kropek ni Mang Juan. From the classic Chicharron and Chicken Skin to the newest addition, Kropek ni Mang Juan, the total Mang Juan snack lineup just keeps getting better.

Visit and grab a pack of Mang Juan at your nearest supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

###

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. Known for its bold flavors, Mang Juan delivers top-quality snacking with its Kropek line—made to be crisp, flavorful, and budget-friendly, making it a go-to choice for Filipino snack fans. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

Puregold Taps Into Experiential Retail with First Hakot Relay Run

Puregold Price Club, Inc. President Vincent Co led the first wave of runners at the first-ever Puregold Hakot Relay Run. (Photo Credit to Running Photographers)

Puregold recently transformed a fun Filipino activity into a large-scale community engagement platform with the launch of the Puregold Hakot Relay Run at Burnham Green Park in Luneta.

Held on November 22, the event prompted a strong turnout with participants numbering in the thousands, demonstrating the retailer’s continued focus on community-building initiatives that are aligned with its long-term brand and customer growth strategy.


Blending fitness, entertainment, and Puregold’s iconic “hakot” experience, the three-kilometer relay introduced an innovative twist to the traditional fun run format. Teams of three joined the race not for speed but for strategy, competing in a hakot segment wherein runners grabbed grocery items and filled their sling bags before tagging the next team member. The ensuing scenario was a vibrant and adrenaline-filled activity that brought families, barkadas, and communities together in a uniquely Puregold way.

Puregold also staged a Sunset Concert at the venue, where OPM and P-Pop performers such as KAIA, G22, Press Hit Play, and the duo BREKA (Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca) filled the park with live music and turned the relay into an afternoon celebration for families and fans alike.

All participating runners were winners as they took home a Puregold Hakot Relay Finisher’s Medal, an official race singlet, and a grocery sling bag, made exclusively for this inaugural event.

The Puregold Hakot Relay Run is reflective of the company’s broader goal to uplift Filipino communities and celebrate everyday wins.

Puregold President Vincent Co, who led the first wave of runners, said, “Wins come in many forms. This is a new one for us, as Puregold tries to create moments where families, friends, and communities can connect. This Hakot Relay Run gave us a chance to do exactly that.”

The tremendous success of Puregold’s first-of-its-kind relay affirms the potential of more creative, community-driven initiatives to strengthen brand affinity while deepening customer loyalty.



Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

Puregold Price Club, Inc. President Vincent Co led the first wave of runners at the first-ever Puregold Hakot Relay Run. (Photo Credit to Running Photographers)

Vincent Co's Puregold celebrates successful 2025 by giving away PhP15 million worth of prizes

Racking up PhP 7 billion in revenues in the last quarter of 2025, Vincent Co's Puregold is sharing the bounty with its customers by creating life-changing moments of joy through the grand Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo promo. To date, Puregold’s loyal shoppers have won laptops, smartphones, tablets, free groceries, tindahan showcases, and more on its weekly draws. By the end, the company will have given away over PhP 15 million worth of prizes to its most loyal customers.

The largesse is emblematic of the growth that Puregold President Vincent Co has generated through his leadership in the company. This year alone, Co opened more stores nationwide while pushing basket size and foot traffic. The result: more shoppers choosing to spend their hard-earned money at Puregold.

Vincent Co stresses the importance of acknowledging the role his steadfast customers play in the company's success. “Even with the economic challenges besetting many Filipino families, our customers and members continue to stand by us and help us sustain growth,” says Co. “Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo is pure gratitude to our loyal customers. Together, we will ensure that Puregold remains a dependable shopping destination that brings convenience and value to every home and every tindahan.”

Now approaching its eighth weekly draw covering the period of November 17 to 23, Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo is stirring up excitement over its forthcoming major prizes that include Suzuki Smash motorcycles, brand-new BYD Sealion 6 SUVs, and several PhP 1 million cash prizes. Customers only need to present a registered receipt that meets a set minimum purchase amount. 

By offering customers chances to score gadgets, grocery essentials, or P-Wallet credits, Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo’s weekly draws also turn everyday errands into opportunities to win big.

With its valued Filipino consumers at heart, Puregold celebrates the people who have been with the brand through every milestone. The loyal customer base Puregold has cultivated and sustained through the years now gets to share in the humble success of the retailer.

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

 

Racking up PhP 7 billion in revenues in the last quarter of 2025, Vincent Co's Puregold is sharing the bounty with its customers by creating life-changing moments of joy through the grand Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo promo. To date, Puregold’s loyal shoppers have won laptops, smartphones, tablets, free groceries, tindahan showcases, and more on its weekly draws. By the end, the company will have given away over PhP 15 million worth of prizes to its most loyal customers.

The largesse is emblematic of the growth that Puregold President Vincent Co has generated through his leadership in the company. This year alone, Co opened more stores nationwide while pushing basket size and foot traffic. The result: more shoppers choosing to spend their hard-earned money at Puregold.

Vincent Co stresses the importance of acknowledging the role his steadfast customers play in the company's success. “Even with the economic challenges besetting many Filipino families, our customers and members continue to stand by us and help us sustain growth,” says Co. “Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo is pure gratitude to our loyal customers. Together, we will ensure that Puregold remains a dependable shopping destination that brings convenience and value to every home and every tindahan.”

Now approaching its eighth weekly draw covering the period of November 17 to 23, Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo is stirring up excitement over its forthcoming major prizes that include Suzuki Smash motorcycles, brand-new BYD Sealion 6 SUVs, and several PhP 1 million cash prizes. Customers only need to present a registered receipt that meets a set minimum purchase amount. 

By offering customers chances to score gadgets, grocery essentials, or P-Wallet credits, Puregold Nasa Resibo ang Panalo’s weekly draws also turn everyday errands into opportunities to win big.

With its valued Filipino consumers at heart, Puregold celebrates the people who have been with the brand through every milestone. The loyal customer base Puregold has cultivated and sustained through the years now gets to share in the humble success of the retailer.

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

Life After Diagnosis: TGP and PCEDM Empower Filipinos to Live Better with Diabetes

So paano na nga kapag may diabetes ka na?
Magbabago ba ang buhay mo? Mahirap ba? These are the questions many Filipinos face upon learning they have diabetes—a chronic condition that, when unmanaged, can lead to serious health complications.

A Growing Health Concern Among Filipinos

According to the Department of Health (DOH), around 4.3 million Filipinos are currently living with diabetes, making it one of the top causes of death in the country.

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that diabetes causes approximately 1.5 million deaths each year, with the Western Pacific Region—where the Philippines belongs—seeing a steady rise in prevalence.

These “scary” numbers reflect a harsh reality: while diabetes is common, it doesn’t have to control one’s life. With proper education, timely consultation, and the right treatment, Filipinos can live long, full lives even after diagnosis.

Living Better, Not Just Longer

Diabetes experts from the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM) remind the public that diabetes management is possible through simple, consistent habits anchored on their long-standing IWAS: 4Dapat Diabetes Campaign advocacy:Ikonsulta sa doktor
Wastong pagkain
Aktibong pamumuhay
Sapat at angkop na gamot

These four steps emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, proper nutrition, physical activity, and adherence to doctor-prescribed medication—principles that can drastically improve quality of life after a diabetes diagnosis.

TGP and PCEDM: Partners in Advocacy

To make credible diabetes education more accessible to Filipinos, The Generics Pharmacy (TGP) has partnered with PCEDM through a formal Memorandum of Agreement signed by TGP Deputy General Manager Aileen Natividad and PCEDM President Dr. Lora May Tan-Tin Hay.

The partnership seeks to strengthen nationwide efforts in diabetes awareness, prevention, and management by combining TGP’s extensive retail and community network with PCEDM’s medical expertise.

“This partnership reinforces our mission to make healthcare more accessible and reliable for every Filipino. By working hand-in-hand with PCEDM’s advocacies and medical expertise, we aim to bridge the gap between awareness and action when it comes to diabetes prevention,” said Natividad.

“Through this collaboration, we want Filipinos to know that life after a diabetes diagnosis is still full of hope and possibilities—with the right care, education, and support,” shared Dr. Tan-Tin Hay.

Empowering Communities Nationwide

Under this collaboration, both organizations will roll out advocacy initiatives across digital, in-store, and on-ground platforms—including expert-led talks and community health engagements.

TGP will lead the implementation of advocacy content while augmenting the dissemination of PCEDM’s social media contents.

Jollibee brings the heart of the Filipino Christmas to life with “Buo ang Saya ng Pasko,” a new Christmas film premiering on November 16 at 6PM.

 

This year, Jollibee captures how both typical families and different versions of Filipino families now come together. Featuring touching vignettes in its new Christmas film and an original soundtrack, Jollibee’s new heartwarming film reminds us that even as the faces around the table change, as long as the family is together—Buo ang saya ng Pasko.

 

“Buo ang Saya ng Pasko” premieres on Jollibee’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Don’t miss it!

Puregold’s Got My Eyes on You drops truth bombs on the realities of modern dating

 

Can two workplace achievers compete for a promotion yet fall in love as they do? The answer apparently is yes, as depicted in Puregold’s TikTok BL series Got My Eyes on You, the story of Drew (Miko Morales) and Shawn (Esteban Mara) and how their disparate circumstances and a common goal drive them closer rather than apart. 

With an undercurrent of romantic tension between them, Shawn and Drew are shown navigating a brewing office romance as they savor light moments with their friends and co-workers Moira (Hannah Lee) and Wilfred (Darwin Yu). Indeed, with GMEOY’s honest take on love, friendship, and ambition, the episodes readily ensnare hearts and rack up views.

Beyond all this, however, viewers may expect GMEOY to shed light on the beautiful yet confusing realities of modern dating. 

Here are some truths about love revealed on Puregold’s Got My Eyes on You. 

For many of us, responsibilities come before romance. 

In Episode 14, Drew opens up to Shawn on why the General Manager position means so much to him. He says, “Ako nagpapaaral sa mga kapatid ko,” he admits, showing that his goals come from a place of love and duty. 

Meanwhile, although he comes from a wealthy family, Shawn also wants to prove himself. In today’s world, many can relate to putting dreams and family first, even as love quietly grows in the background. 

‘No labels’ means no rules, but all the feelings. 

In Episodes 17 to 19, Drew begins to realize that he is falling for Shawn. When he sees Shawn chatting with someone else, jealousy creeps in, even if he knows he has no right to feel that way. He asks, “Ano ba tayo para magselos ako?” 

Modern dating often encourages “no labels” and situations, which entail having feelings while pretending you’re not supposed to. 

Work and love don’t always mix well. 

 

In Episode 15, Sir Trevor (Victor Sy) confronts Drew and Shawn about their growing closeness. “May relasyon ba kayong dalawa kaya pati ang work, apektado?” Both then try to keep things professional, even avoiding each other in Episode 16. 

However, their rivalry for the General Manager position only makes things more complicated, especially as the attraction becomes even harder to ignore. 

Confession is hard, even when it’s obvious. 

In Episode 18, the trepidation we usually feel when we reveal our feelings manifests when Drew wonders, “What if hindi niya ako gusto?” 

The truth is, we all want to be honest but are held back by the fear of rejection. In the modern dating world, people safeguard their hearts with humor and subtlety—and taking the first step is the hardest thing to do. 

Sometimes, friends give you the push you need. 

As things turn awkward between Drew and Shawn in Episode 20, Shawn turns to Moira and Wilfred for advice. Just like in the real world, friends listen, tease, and push you toward what you are too afraid to do yourself. 

In Episode 24, Moira and Wilfred even conspire to have Drew and Shawn share a night shift. Sometimes, love needs a little help from the people who see it before you do. 

Love can grow in the most ordinary moments. 

Even as they try to fight it, Drew and Shawn fall deeper for each other during simple shared moments—vet visits, a casual photoshoot, a deep conversation. 

This reminds us that even in the complicated world of modern dating, love does not always need drama or grand gestures. Sometimes, time, laughter, and openness are enough. 

For more insight on the realities of modern dating, catch the latest episodes of Got My Eyes on You on the Puregold TikTok Channel (@puregoldph). 

Fans of Got My Eyes on You can also watch for the Director’s Cut of the series, available on YouTube starting November 27, with new episodes airing every Thursday at 7 PM.

Subscribe to Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.

AJ Raval Reveals She’s a Mother of Five, Three with Aljur Abrenica

AJ Raval has revealed that she is a mother of five children — three of whom she shares with actor Aljur Abrenica.

During her guest appearance on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on Wednesday, the actress was asked to confirm if it was true that she and Aljur already have two children together.

“Actually, Tito Boy, there are five,” AJ responded. “I have five kids.”

She went on to name her children, starting with her eldest, Ariana, who is seven years old. However, she became emotional when she mentioned her second child, Aaron, whom she lovingly described as “an angel.”

“He’s no longer with us,” AJ said tearfully.

PHOTO: AJ RAVAL INTERVIEW IN FAST TALK WITH BOY ABUNDA

AJ then talked about her three other children with Aljur, the youngest of whom is named Abraham.

When asked why she decided to reveal this information publicly, AJ said she wanted to put an end to the speculations surrounding her family and to give her children the freedom to live without hiding the truth.

“I really thought about this,” she said. “I wanted to free my kids from all the talk and give them a life without secrets.”

AJ also shared that her children know and get along with one another, including Aljur’s sons with his ex-wife, Kylie Padilla — Alas and Axl.

“Aljur’s eldest, Alas, is very responsible with his younger siblings,” AJ added with a smile.

Reflecting on her journey as a mother, AJ admitted that motherhood was not easy at first, especially with all the challenges she faced in public life. But she said her family’s unwavering support helped her overcome the difficulties.

“At first, it was really hard,” AJ said. “But my family was there. They supported me through everything. I managed, Tito Boy.”

Back in September, AJ’s father, veteran actor Jeric Raval, confirmed that his daughter has two children with Aljur.

AJ and Aljur publicly revealed their relationship on Valentine’s Day 2023, posting affectionate photos on social media. Later that year, Jeric Raval expressed his wish for Aljur to officially marry AJ.

Aljur, who was previously married to Kylie Padilla, separated from her in 2021. Despite the ongoing rumors, AJ has firmly denied being the third party who caused their breakup.

“I was not the reason they separated,” AJ clarified in previous interviews. “When Aljur and I got together, everything was already clear between him and Kylie.”

Her revelation has since gone viral online, with many netizens expressing mixed reactions — some shocked, others showing admiration for her courage to speak her truth.

For AJ Raval, the confession marks a new chapter in her life — one built on honesty, motherhood, and freedom from judgment.

From Viral HuffPost Essay “Thank You, Cancer” to Awards Contender: Paper Flowers Launches Oscar Campaign After AFM 2025 Showcase

Los Angeles, CA — Paper Flowers, the acclaimed independent drama inspired by the life of Shalin Shah, is officially launching its 2025–26 awards campaign, with a focus on the Best Adapted Screenplay category.

Adapted from Shah’s private journal entries—words he never meant to share—the film traces the real-life journey of a young USC graduate and Peace Corps volunteer who turns a rare cancer diagnosis into a story of love, courage, and gratitude. 

In his final days, Shah’s girlfriend shared excerpts with Varun Soni, Dean of Religious Life at USC, who then enlisted Antonia Bloomberg (then a journalist at HuffPost) to publish them. The resulting viral essay, “Thank You, Cancer,” became the emotional foundation of Paper Flowers.

“Unlike most adaptations, this story comes straight from lived experience,” said producer Asit Vyas. “It’s raw, unfiltered, and profoundly human.”

Directed and written by Mary Krell-Oishi, Asit Vyas, and Mahesh Pailoor, the film stars Kapil Talwalkar, Olivia Liang, Karan Soni, Faran Tahir, Meera Simhan, and Tom Everett Scott. 

Paper Flowers will hold its Oscar-qualifying theatrical run at the Laemmle NoHo 7 from November 19–25, 2025, aligning with U.S. Gratitude Month and leading into Thanksgiving.

Championing the film’s independent spirit is Lela Meadow-Conner, President of Art House Convergence and curator of The Popcorn List, which spotlights standout indie features without U.S. distribution.

“Shalin’s words began as a private journal,” Vyas added. “Now they’re reaching hearts around the world.”

Official Website: www.paperflowersmovie.com
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_P2hZRXC5g