Inspired by Travel, Driven by Purpose—Tagaytay's Hotel Casiana Delivers Hospitality with Heart and Innovation

Hotel Casiana GM Clive Aranha Shares the Real Work Behind Great Guest Experiences on PLDT Enterprise’s ROI’d to Success with Hustleshare

 

Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana & Events Center, together with his dedicated team, continues to deliver seamless guest experiences—powered by reliable connectivity and digital solutions from PLDT Enterprise

 

For Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana, hospitality is about earning every guest’s trust, one thoughtful detail at a time—whether it’s a warm greeting, a child’s smile in the play club, or a wedding that goes off without a hitch.

 

“At Hotel Casiana, our mission is to delight discerning travelers by curating extraordinary experiences and unforgettable memories,” said Aranha.

 

Hotel Casiana, located along the scenic Tagaytay-Nasugbu highway, is a ten-story sanctuary that marries Scandinavian aesthetics with Filipino warmth. Built to accommodate families, corporate teams, and eventgoers alike, the hotel offers premium amenities such as a heated pool, wellness center, children’s carousel, and a variety of versatile function rooms.

 

In the latest episode of ROI’d to Success, the business podcast of PLDT Enterprise in partnership with Hustleshare, Aranha shares how a childhood fascination with hotel life turned into a lifelong mission to create an extraordinary guest experience in Tagaytay.

 

“I had a neighbor who worked on cruise ships, and he would always share stories about the different countries he visited,” shared Aranha, recalling the moment his interest in the hospitality industry began.

 

“I’ve been fascinated by the idea of traveling the world and getting paid for it since I was in fourth grade,” shared Aranha. “I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people and exploring different cuisines, which naturally led me to the hospitality industry. As I began my career, I quickly realized the sacrifices and challenges that come with succeeding in this field. But I also believe that many of the skills we develop in hospitality, particularly in dealing with people, are applicable across various careers. That’s what makes this job truly fulfilling for me.”

 

But behind the luxury is a team that’s been forged through real challenges. From navigating the abrupt decline in bookings during the pandemic to training a team grounded in empathy and precision, Aranha emphasizes that leadership means growing with your people, not above them.

 

“It’s not about ‘I,’ it’s about ‘we,’” Aranha shares. “Success is when your team feels like they’re part of something greater.”

 

A Partnership Built for Reliability and Growth

 

As Hotel Casiana’s reputation for reliable service grew, so did the demands for fast, uninterrupted operations—especially during peak seasons. To support its commitment to guest satisfaction, Hotel Casiana partnered with PLDT Enterprise to enhance its digital infrastructure.

 

With PLDT iGate and trunkline services now in place, the hotel has transformed its day-to-day operations. Guests enjoy smoother online bookings, event teams coordinate seamlessly across departments, and staff communication remains uninterrupted during critical moments.

 

“When I joined Hotel Casiana, I made it a point to identify recurring issues raised by our guests and one of the most pressing was connectivity,” said Aranha. “Thankfully, we were able to partner with PLDT Enterprise, who provided reliable solutions like iGate. This significantly improved our Wi-Fi, which is critical in today’s guest experience. We’ve also started adopting paperless, eco-friendly technologies like QR codes, and are now exploring AI integrations. PLDT Enterprise continues to play a key role in our digital transformation.”

 

Since the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, Hotel Casiana now attributes 12% of its total yearly bookings to online platforms. In 2026, a new hotel will be opened in Mexico, Pampanga, and Aranha looks forward to continuing the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, bringing its technology and innovation offerings to the new establishment.

 

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” Aranha says. “The right tools let us do that consistently, even when the hotel is fully booked. That’s where tech meets trust.”

 

Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise, also expressed his pride in the growing partnership: “Hotel Casiana exemplifies how hospitality is evolving with the help of reliable technology. We’re proud to support their journey in delivering outstanding guest experiences through stable connectivity and digital tools. At PLDT Enterprise, we believe in empowering businesses like Hotel Casiana to thrive—not just in key cities, but in regional growth centers like Tagaytay where tourism and service excellence continue to grow.”

 

Powering Philippine Hospitality with Purpose

 

The partnership between PLDT Enterprise and Hotel Casiana reflects a shared mission: to equip Filipino businesses with technology that lets them do what they do best—connect with people.

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” says Aranha. “Technology doesn’t replace that. But when it’s done right, it empowers us to do it better.”

 

Discover the story of Hotel Casiana at ROI’d To Success with Hustleshare on Spotify. To learn more about the digital solutions fit for your business, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-HC-pr

 

About PLDT Enterprise

 

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

 

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Pinakapinipili. Our Pinakamalaki, Pinakamasarap: Why 4 out of 5 Pinoys Still Choose Chickenjoy

Try saying this three times fast: Pinakapinipili, Our Pinakamalaki, Pinakamasarap. You know what we’re describing? Jollibee Chickenjoy! Can you do it without missing a beat?

It’s actually more than just a fun tongue twister. It’s a delicious truth. And with 4 out of 5 Filipinos choosing Jollibee Chickenjoy as their ultimate fried chicken, it’s clear that it plays in a league of its own.

“We’ve always known that Chickenjoy is loved across generations, but these numbers really affirm what we’ve been hearing and seeing every day — that it’s one of the things that Filipinos will keep choosing,” said Luis Berba, Marketing Assistant Vice President of Jollibee Philippines.

From its crispylicious skin that crackles with every bite, to its juicylicious meat, Chickenjoy is the PINAKA!

Pinakapinipili. Our Pinakamalaki, Pinakamasarap. The people have spoken, and the Chickenjoy advantage remains unbeatable. It’s more than a meal — it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a reason for family and friends to gather.

Anne Curtis also jumped in on the fun, gamely taking on the Pinakapinipili, Pinakamalaki, Pinakamasarap tongue twister challenge—nailing it as smoothly as she bites into her favorite Chickenjoy. After all, some things are just easier done when it’s your pinakapinipili, Jollibee’s pinakamalaki, and pinakamasarap fried chicken.

So, whether you’re in it for the crispiness, juiciness, or the sheer joy of eating your favorite fried chicken, there’s one name worth repeating:

Pinakapinipili. Our Pinaka Malaki. Pinaka Masarap. Chickenjoy!

Taste the Pinaka Difference. Get your Jollibee Chickenjoy today in 1-pc. Solo, 2-pc. Solo, and bucket options, available in all Jollibee stores nationwide and via Dine-In, Take Out, Drive-Thru, and Delivery.

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

Maging Handa sa Tag-Ulan at School Needs with Maya Easy Credit

 

 

Payong ready, baon check. Pero minsan, kahit handa at kompleto ka na sa gamit, kulang pa rin ang budget, lalo na kapag sabay-sabay ang gastos sa school at may biglaang emergency ngayong tag-ulan. Dito mo talaga kailangan ng partner na maaasahan pagdating sa pera.

Buti na lang, may Maya Easy Credit! Instant access sa pera kapag kailangan mo, diretso sa Maya app, para sa kahit anong emergency o biglaang gastos. Sa ilang click lang, puwede mo nang gamitin ang pera pangbayad sa stores gamit ang QR scan, o ilipat agad sa Maya Wallet para magamit sa iba pang kailangan mo.

Mabilis, Madali, at Ready sa Bawat Gastos Mo

Para sa quick fixes sa rainy day emergencies. May revolving credit line na hanggang ₱30,000[1]—perfect para sa kuryente, bills, emergency repair sa bahay, o panggamot ngayong tag-ulan. Flexible ang repayment, kaya anytime puwede kang humiram ulit kapag kailangan. Planuhin lang ang repayment schedule para iwas late fees at dagdag gastos.

Footnote: Must be 21 to 65 years old to apply. Approval is subject to credit evaluation.

Para sa school essentials at baon. Hindi mo na kailangang mag-alala sa biglaang gastos para sa school. Maya Easy Credit has your back para sa notebooks, projects, at pangbaon kapag na-delay ang sweldo—lahat sa isang app lang. Importante lang na gumamit ng credit para sa totoong kailangan ng pamilya mo.

Mabilis at hassle-free. Lahat nasa phone mo lang, di mo na kailangan ng maraming paperworks. Walang pila, walang komplikasyon, at instant ang feedback sa status ng approval mo. Tandaan: mas maaga kang magbayad, mas mabilis ding bumabalik ang available credit line mo. Kahit maliit lang ang isinisingit buwan-buwan, malaking tulong ito para mapanatili ang good credit standing at mas bubukas pa ang financial opportunities para sa’yo.

Paano Mag-apply?

1. Mag-login sa Maya app at i-click ang “Credit” tab.

2. Mag-apply sa Maya Easy Credit, ilagay ang mga hinihinging detalye sa form

3. Kapag approved, puwede mo nang gamitin ang credit—pambayad sa stores o ilipat sa Maya Wallet, ready to use agad!



Sa panahon ngayon, dapat ready ka sa kahit anong gastusin. Nandito ang Maya Easy Credit para sa’yo—rain or shine, school or emergency.



Visit maya.ph at mayabank.ph, at i-follow ang @mayaiseverything sa Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, at TikTok for updates.



###

About Maya

Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, with Maya, the #1 Digital Bank, and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor. Maya Bank is a digital bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), with deposits insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor. To learn more about Maya, check out maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Follow Maya at @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok and @mayaofficialph on Twitter.

LOVE SESSIONISTAS: THE REPEAT BACK ON STAGE AFTER SOLD-OUT SUCCESS

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 2025 – By overwhelming demand, the beloved

Sessionistas—Ice Seguerra, Sitti, Juris, Nyoy Volante, Kean Cipriano, Duncan Ramos, and Juris—are

returning to the concert stage for Love Sessionistas: The Repeat after the resounding success and

sold-out run of their first two reunion shows, OPM fans now have another chance to relive the

magic, music, and memories that defined a generation.

The Sessionistas, a powerhouse ensemble of some of the country’s most iconic voices, will once

again join forces for a night of timeless hits, unforgettable harmonies, and heartfelt performances.

Audiences can expect a show that blends nostalgia with fresh energy, as the group reimagines their

signature duets, mashups, and audience favourites while adding a few surprises to keep the night

truly special.

First brought together through their celebrated live performances on ABS-CBN’s ASAP stage and

recordings, the Sessionistas quickly became a phenomenon, redefining the meaning of jam sessions

and cementing their place in OPM history. Their music, a mix of love songs, anthems, and soulful

ballads, resonated with Filipinos everywhere and continues to do so today.

“Nothing compares to the feeling of singing and sharing the stage with this family again,” says Ice

Seguerra. “The love we received from the fans for our first two shows was overwhelming, so we’re

beyond excited to give them another show that feels like home.”

Love Sessionistas: The Repeat promises not just a concert but an experience, a celebration of

friendship, music, and the enduring power of OPM to bring people together. Fans are encouraged to

secure tickets now, as demand is expected to be just as strong as the first two shows

SHOW DETAILS:

Love Sessionistas: The Repeat

18 October 2025 (8:00 PM)

The Theatre at Solaire

Tickets available via TicketWorld or through Fire and Ice LIVE! (Viber: 09178771758)

Your Ultimate Guide to Credit Without the Burnout

 

Let’s face it: credit is often misunderstood. For some, it’s a safety net. For others, it’s a cycle they can’t break. But the truth is, credit—when used with intention—can be one of your most powerful financial tools. The difference lies in how it’s built, and who it’s built for.

 

That’s where Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, stands out. Instead of treating credit as a one-size-fits-all solution, Maya designs tools that adapt to your real life—whether you’re managing emergencies, covering essentials, or working toward long-term financial wellness.

 

Here’s how Maya helps you borrow smarter, not harder:

 

Credit That Works When You Need It

Emergencies don’t wait for ideal timing. That’s why Maya offers Easy Credit^[1], a revolving credit line of up to ₱30,000, available instantly when you need it. There’s no paperwork needed, and with up to 30 days to repay what you use.

 

The best part? It’s built into the Maya app, right where you manage the rest of your finances, so you stay in control without disruption.

 

Credit Without the Catch

When you need more than just a short-term boost, Maya Personal Loan^[2] gives you access to up to ₱250,000, with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months. No collateral required.

Whether you’re handling a major life expense or consolidating existing debt, Maya’s loan product is designed to be predictable and manageable, so borrowing doesn’t turn into burden.

 

Credit Cards with Built-In Discipline and Rewards

The right credit card doesn’t just help you spend, it helps you earn. Maya’s Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you up to 5% on Landers purchases, 2% on dining, and 1% on all other qualified transactions.

 

Looking for something elevated? The Maya Black Credit Card delivers more than just sleek design. It lets you earn instant Maya Miles—versatile points every time you spend. You can soon use them to pay for shopping or dining, convert your Maya Miles into airline miles right in the app, starting with partners like Philippine Airlines. Plus, get access to exclusive rewards through Maya’s in-app catalog, giving you more value with every spend.

 

Tools to Help You Borrow and Save Simultaneously

Maya understands that the best borrowing decisions happen when you're not operating on panic. That’s why you can pair your credit use with Personal Goals inside Maya. Create up to 5 savings goals, each earning 4% p.a. interest, and build buffers for upcoming expenses, from tuition to travel.

 

Responsible borrowing doesn’t mean saying no to credit. It means choosing tools that meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

 

Maya is here to champion financial choices that reflect who you are and where you’re going. That means more transparency, more control, and more respect for your time and your effort.

 

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to learn more. 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.

From food to film, Joel Torre still rocks and reigns

Joel Torre isn't just a name synonymous with Philippine cinema royalty; he's a captivating force who has seamlessly blended an illustrious acting career with building a flourishing inasal empire. With a career spanning 56 years, Torre continues to command attention, both on screen and in the culinary world, demonstrating a magnetic presence that keeps audiences and diners equally enthralled.

Engaging in conversation with Joel Torre is akin to witnessing a masterclass in performance art. One moment he’s vibrant and expansive, the next he shifts, becoming reserved and introspective. This chameleon-like quality isn't surprising for a multi-awarded actor, recognized both locally and internationally. His journey into acting began at the tender age of seven when renowned stage and film director Peque Gallaga discovered him in a Bacolod play, leading to decades of invaluable mentorship under Gallaga's tutelage.

Under Gallaga, Joel refined his craft, studying advanced acting and performing with the St. Genesius Guild – named after the patron saint of actors, as Joel would emphatically remind you. He embraced method acting, keenly following Eric Morris’s "Morris Technique," which encourages actors to draw from their own experiences to create authentic portrayals. This dedication places him in the company of acclaimed method actors like Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Al Pacino, all adhering to Gallaga's mantra: "Hindi puwede ang puwede na" (Never settle for just good enough).

His impressive filmography boasts collaborations with Filipino directorial giants. In the critically acclaimed *Oro, Plata, Mata*, Joel transformed from a seemingly awkward 21-year-old into a mature, yet terrifying, young man during a grueling bloodbath scene, a role he says required him to "dig deep." More recently, his Netflix hit *Lolo and the Kid* (2024) soared to number one in 38 countries. His chilling portrayal of hitman Tatang Maghari in Eric Matti’s *On The Job* is particularly memorable. Joel meticulously researched the role by interviewing real inmates, one of whom was a scrawny, unassuming hitman. Joel vividly recounted how this individual described hiding "under a bench while waiting for my victim," an anecdote he brought to life with a transformative presence that underscored the frightening reality of such characters.

Beyond the silver screen, Joel's passion for food rivals his dedication to acting. He candidly shares that his "second passion" for food led him and his wife Christy to establish JT’s Manukan on May 3, 2003, as a practical "fallback" during acting hiatuses. He humorously recalls the early days of their "hole-in-the-wall" eatery, sweating over the grill and chatting with customers from a slanted driveway dining area – a far cry from the sprawling success it is today.

The roots of his inasal empire trace back to his childhood in Bacolod, the home of the signature dish. Joel credits his mother, who ran a "cloud kitchen" long before the term existed, cooking for neighbors and supporting her thirteen children through difficult times like the sugar crisis. He fondly remembers learning the value of hard work by rolling lumpia as a child, earning a meager five pesos for his efforts.

Today, JT's Manukan boasts 40 branches, including international outposts in Singapore and Dubai. While Joel playfully dismisses the term "empire," his ambition is clear: he envisions JT's Manukan evolving into a heritage restaurant, much like the iconic Max's. With two new movies and a teleserye on the horizon, Joel Torre continues to redefine what it means to be a multifaceted icon, embodying his belief that "to be local is to be foremost global" in both film and food.

A fairytale for all ages: ‘Shrek The Musical’ celebrates the freak in everyone

Get ready to step into a world where fairytales get a hilarious, heartwarming twist! An all-Filipino staging of the beloved Broadway hit, 'Shrek The Musical', is set to transform the Newport Performing Arts Theater into an enchanting swamp this October. This much-anticipated production promises to be an ogre-sized spectacle for audiences of all ages.

Fans will recall the original 2001 DreamWorks animated film, a cultural phenomenon that redefined fairytale norms. It introduced us to Shrek, an unlikely hero who found family and acceptance in his muddy wetlands, proving that even outsiders can be heroes. The film’s clever humor, pop culture references, and unique romance quickly cemented its status as a cult classic.

Now, the Full House Theater Company (FHTC) is bringing that same magic and conviction to the stage. Opening on October 31, director Dexter Santos and his talented all-Filipino cast envision the theater not as an escape from the world, but as a vibrant space where everyone truly belongs, echoing the film’s powerful message of inclusivity.

The musical features a stellar lineup, with Jamie Wilson as the titular Shrek, Krystal Kane as Fiona, Topper Fabregas as Donkey, Alfredo Reyes as Lord Farquaad, and Julia Serad as Dragon. This cast, largely selected through open auditions, is set to deliver a performance that embraces grand spectacle while diving deep into the story's poignant themes of exile, prejudice, and the formation of chosen families.

Jamie Wilson himself shared his connection to Shrek, noting, "He’s been outcast by society just because he was born an ogre. He realizes that, ‘No, I don’t have to be like that.’ I can be a hero, and so can everybody else should you choose to be." This sentiment resonates strongly in the Philippines, as Marvin Ong, Donkey's understudy, highlighted: "In the Philippines, there are many people who are ostracized or are looked differently on whether it’s because of their sexuality, their appearance, their social status. Everybody wants to belong."

Director Dexter Santos promises a visual feast, including an "extensive dragon scene," as part of his ambitious "theme park" blocking approach. With a massive 47-member cast gracing the Newport stage, the creative team, including artistic director Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and associate director Michael Stuart Williams, is designing for an unforgettable, immersive experience. Lauchengco-Yulo explained, "We really need to make it also very visually stimulating for the children. Because the material is a little bit adult, so it might just go over their heads."

This 2025 production continues the legacy of 'Shrek The Musical', which first premiered on Broadway in 2008. Much like the film, the musical has captivated audiences worldwide with its blend of witty fairytale parody, heartfelt ballads, and larger-than-life characters that defy traditional hero archetypes.

The show's brilliance shines through David Lindsay-Abaire’s clever lyrics and Jeanine Tesori’s genre-bending music, delivering iconic songs from the triumphant "Who I’d Be" and the yearning "I Know It’s Today" to the joyfully rebellious "Freak Flag" and a lively rendition of The Monkees’ "I’m A Believer." Coupled with high-energy choreography and quick-fire comedic timing, the stage transforms into a living swamp, promising a design rich in color, movement, and childlike wonder, all while keeping the story's core message intact.

The musical’s famous line, "ogres have layers," takes on deeper meaning in Santos’ production. Associate director Michael Stuart Williams describes the show as "wildly funny, heartwarming, and visually spectacular," emphasizing its power to reveal "something real and relatable" beneath the slapstick. This relatability stems from its diverse ensemble of misfit fairytale creatures, who collectively redefine belonging. Associate director Cara Barredo further clarifies the production's stance, assuring that the "freaks" won't be treated as punchlines, but rather showcased authentically, honoring their truth.

In the Filipino context, these themes gain even sharper resonance. Belonging here isn't solely emotional; it's intricately tied to societal norms and expectations. The swamp in 'Shrek The Musical' becomes a powerful mirror, reflecting a society where acceptance can often hinge on conformity, and where finding genuine sanctuary becomes both a fragile and vital endeavor. Don't miss your chance to experience this magical journey: 'Shrek The Musical' runs from October 31 to November 17 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, with tickets available via Ticketworld, Newport World Resorts Box Office, and Helixpay.

Where ‘LizQuen’ has been last 3 years, where the former love team is today

After years of fervent fan speculation, Filipina-American actress Liza Soberano has finally confirmed her three-year separation from long-time on-screen and off-screen partner Enrique Gil. The revelation came during a poignant and candid episode of her documentary-podcast, "Can I Come In?", released on Thursday, August 14.

Soberano openly shared that while Gil was her first love, she had harbored a desire to make their breakup public for quite some time, only holding back at his initial request. Whispers of a split first surfaced in 2022, which Liza swiftly denied that June, insisting they were "totally fine." Enrique also seemed to quell rumors, referring to her as his "best friend and baby" in a January 2023 birthday message and later stating in July 2023 that they were "good" but simply preoccupied with individual projects. Her confirmation now follows more than two years after talent manager Ogie Diaz first claimed their relationship had ended in May 2023.

During what turned out to be their unannounced separation, both artists embarked on distinct career paths. Liza Soberano made a significant move to America in 2022, where she signed with James Reid's Careless Music, marking her official foray into the international film scene. This pivotal decision came after the expiration of her contracts with Star Magic and former manager Ogie Diaz, aligning with her long-held aspirations for Hollywood.

Her international debut saw her land a supporting role as Taffy in the 2024 horror dramedy "Lisa Frankenstein," starring alongside Kathryn Newton and Cole Sprouse. Despite the film's mixed reviews, Soberano's performance garnered critical acclaim, particularly for her physical comedy and overall delivery. She reflected on the liberating experience of working in Hollywood, noting how its "fantastical" storytelling offers more artistic freedom compared to the "reality-driven" narratives often found in the Philippines. In 2024, she also appeared in Thai artist Bright Vachirawit's music video for "Long Showers."

Transitioning from Careless Music in 2024, Soberano is now managed by the Singaporean group WILD. Further cementing her dedication to the craft, she established her own production studio in 2024, reportedly with seven projects already in development. Personally, Liza has emphasized her focus on self-prioritization, expressing a newfound freedom from seeking external validation. Her candid podcast also touched upon deeply personal topics, including childhood trauma, her mother's drug use, and foster parent abuse, underscoring her commitment to personal growth and healing.

Meanwhile, Enrique Gil revitalized his career in the Philippines, venturing into production alongside acting. He both produced and starred in "Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Hospital Killer" (2024) and "I Am Not Big Bird" (2024). A self-professed horror enthusiast, Gil was particularly drawn to "Strange Frequencies," a "found footage" horror film that became part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival. He expressed a desire to further explore this unique style within Philippine cinema, appreciating its raw, personal, and immersive qualities for the audience.

After a three-year hiatus from showbiz starting in 2020, Gil inked a new exclusive contract with ABS-CBN in 2023, expressing excitement for a "new path" and tackling roles he had not explored before. Fans can anticipate his reunion with actress Julia Barretto in the upcoming series "Hi, Hello," marking their first on-screen collaboration in over a decade. Beyond his acting endeavors, Enrique also took on a significant corporate role in 2023, being appointed Chief Communications and Impact Officer for the telemedicine platform KonsultaMD.

The journey for Liza and Enrique since their quiet breakup has been one of individual rediscovery and career evolution. Their on-screen pairing, affectionately known as 'LizQuen', captivated audiences from their debut in the 2014 series "Forevermore" through beloved projects like "Dolce Amore" (2016), "My Ex and Whys" (2017), and "Alone/Together" (2019), culminating in the 2020 series "Make It With You."

While 'LizQuen' as a romantic pairing may be a chapter closed, rumors have begun to swirl regarding Liza's current romantic life, with reports linking her to former Careless Music CEO Jeffery Oh, following a private birthday celebration she reportedly arranged for him in Los Angeles in 2024. Regardless, Liza has underscored that her primary focus remains firmly on her own well-being and continuing to build a life true to herself.

Liza Soberano reveals childhood trauma, mother’s drug use, foster parent abuse

In a deeply candid and unscripted conversation, actress Liza Soberano recently opened up about her tumultuous and traumatic childhood on "Can I Come In?", a unique podcast-cinema-documentary hybrid hosted by Sarah Bahbah.

Born Hope Elizabeth Hanley Soberano in Santa Clara, California, in 1998, Liza described her parents, Jacqueline and John, as young and "misguided," akin to a "Bonnie and Clyde duo" focused on survival without considering the long-term impact on her.

She revealed her mother's severe crystal meth addiction, which tragically led to her younger brother being born addicted to the drug. Her father, facing criminal charges for drug manufacturing and illegal firearm possession, was eventually deported, leaving her mother to care for the children alone.

Among her earliest and most harrowing memories was an incident at age two involving her mother’s boyfriend, Michael. After he stole a van, the family vanished for days, prompting a police search for "kidnapping." Liza vividly recalled being left alone in a car seat at night, and an attempt to escape being thwarted. A particularly disturbing moment occurred when Michael tried to force her to hit her infant brother with a car seat; upon her refusal, he struck her head with a gun. Soon after, sirens approached, revealing her mother had called the authorities.

With her mother subsequently hospitalized and then imprisoned, and her father absent, Liza and her brother entered the foster care system. She spent the longest time with a foster parent named Melissa, whom she later described as both psychologically and physically abusive.

Despite being introduced as her mother’s high school best friend, Melissa's treatment of Liza was anything but friendly. Liza recounted being subjected to severe humiliation, including being called "the family dog," forced to sit in a cardboard box during family movie nights, and being made to eat a meatball until she choked. In a particularly distressing account, Melissa compelled her to clean dog feces from a rug with her tongue, even physically forcing her head down.

During social worker visits, Melissa's demeanor would drastically shift, even offering Liza candy. Believing this temporary kindness was genuine, Liza would lie, assuring the social workers that everything was fine. She reflected on this, stating that as a child, she inherently trusted adults and believed their words of affection, even when actions contradicted them.

As time went on, the abuse escalated severely, with Liza noting Melissa "stopped being like a human" to her. One instance saw her denied food at a fast-food drive-thru, leaving her silently weeping in the back seat. Later, she was forced to spend a cold, dark night sleeping in the garage as punishment, where Melissa threatened to harm her baby brother if she didn't remain silent. Food deprivation became a recurring form of control, with periods of starvation followed by excessive feeding, sometimes going for days without meals.

The abuse finally came to light during a surprise visit from a social worker, who observed physical signs of neglect on Liza's body, specifically a skinny frame and a bloated stomach.

After leaving foster care, Liza lived with her grandparents before financial difficulties prompted a move to the Philippines at age 10. This transition led to a reunion with her father, a relationship she candidly described as "uncomfortable" and "estranged," feeling that his demands were "unmerited" given his previous absence.

Reflecting on her past, Liza acknowledged that her early experiences taught her to "make myself so small" and to "tolerate and accept a lot of disrespect and abuse" out of a deep-seated fear of losing people. She concluded that for her, words hold little meaning without corresponding actions, emphasizing that true love and care are demonstrated through consistent behavior, not just verbal affirmations.

When asked to visualize freedom, Liza painted a picture of "an open field, full of life... open and airy, and it feels safe." Despite this vision, she candidly admitted she doesn't yet possess that freedom. Her path forward, she revealed, involves releasing the need for external validation, prioritizing her own well-being, and truly embracing indifference to others' opinions.

She then made a heartfelt promise to herself, "Hope, I promise you, I’m never going to let anyone make you feel inferior, ever. Don’t let people hurt you. Don’t stay because you’re afraid of rocking the boat. Love yourself first, and life will get so much better."

This deeply personal revelation coincided with Liza's recent confirmation that she and former love team partner Enrique Gil ended their relationship three years prior.

Taylor Swift says ‘Showgirl’ album reflects joy of recent tour

Pop superstar Taylor Swift is once again setting the music world abuzz with the announcement of her 12th original album, "The Life of a Showgirl." During an appearance on the popular "New Heights" podcast, hosted by her boyfriend Travis Kelce and his brother Jason, Swift revealed that this eagerly awaited album is slated for release on October 3.

Swift shared that "The Life of a Showgirl" is a direct reflection of the overwhelming joy and vibrant energy she experienced behind the scenes during her monumental, record-setting Eras Tour. She described the album as stemming from "the most infectiously joyful, wild, dramatic place" in her life, promising listeners a collection that is "exuberant, electric, and vibrant," complete with what she confidently called "bangers."

The record-breaking Eras Tour, which concluded in December 2024 after grossing over $2 billion, clearly left a profound impact on the artist. Demonstrating her dedication, Swift managed to record "Showgirl" by traveling to Sweden in between her European tour dates.

When discussing her artistic vision, Swift expressed her aim to create "melodies that were so infectious that you’re almost angry at it" and lyrics that are "as vivid, crisp, focused and completely intentional." This commitment to compelling songwriting has been a hallmark of her illustrious career, which includes an unparalleled four Album of the Year Grammys among her 14 total awards.

Travis Kelce hinted at a noticeable shift in tone from her previous album, "The Tortured Poets Department," stating that "Showgirl" is an album that "will make you dance," a sentiment Swift echoed, confirming that her music often reflects her current disposition, and "Life is more upbeat." The 12-track album's cover features Swift gracefully floating underwater in a bejeweled bodice, an image she noted symbolizes the conclusion of her tour nights. Fans can look forward to a collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter on the title track, alongside other intriguing song titles such as “Elizabeth Taylor,” “Eldest Daughter,” and “Actually Romantic.”