LIVE UPDATES: Binibining Pilipinas 2025

The exciting quest for the next Binibining Pilipinas queens is set to reach its peak this weekend.

This year, a field of 36 hopeful candidates will step onto the stage, each aiming to demonstrate their unique blend of beauty, confidence, and intellect as they compete for the coveted titles of Miss International and Miss Globe.

This highly anticipated event, marking the 61st edition of the nation's oldest active national beauty pageant, will hold its grand coronation night on Sunday, June 15, at the iconic Araneta Coliseum.

True queen: Keylyn Trajano transcends ‘trans’ label

Keylyn Trajano, a transgender Filipino woman, is set to make history on the international stage, aiming to use the platform of pageantry to champion messages of hope, determination, and acceptance.

Based in Pampanga, the model is preparing to compete in the Universal Woman 2025 pageant, where she will be the first-ever transgender contestant in the relatively new global competition.

Interestingly, Trajano will not be representing the Philippines. Having been born in Jeddah to Filipino parents before moving to the Philippines at a young age, she was crowned "Universal Woman Arabia" by the current reigning Universal Woman, Maria Gigante, at a recent event in Quezon City. This title allows her to represent her birth country in the upcoming pageant.

For those who follow Philippine pageantry, Trajano is a familiar face. She previously participated in the Century Superbods contest in both 2020 and 2024. She was also an official candidate for the Miss Universe Philippines Pampanga title last year.

While the Miss Universe Organization opened its doors to transgender participants years ago, the Philippines currently lacks gender legislation that would fully align with this policy at the national level. Despite this, Trajano was accepted into the Miss Universe Philippines Pampanga search. However, she ultimately decided to withdraw before the finals after careful consideration.

In a social media post, she explained her decision, stating, "Knowing that the country isn’t still ready for change, my stable avenues are things I cannot simply let go," citing her professional and business commitments as factors.

Speaking to the media at her Universal Woman Arabia coronation, Trajano shared her experiences in local pageantry: "there’s nothing not open about me, ever since I came out last year, and competed in pageantry. And every time I’m always the bridesmaid, every time I’m always so close, but never really given the chance in the Phillippines, because of who I am."

Trajano feels she has found her place, or "home," in the Universal Woman pageant. She expressed that the competition genuinely celebrates her identity and views her not just as an "inclusivity pick" but for who she is.

The Universal Woman pageant, based in the United Kingdom, is recognized for its notably inclusive guidelines. Unlike many pageants that have strict age limits, Universal Woman welcomes participants between the ages of 25 and 45. Trajano highlighted that, in addition to accepting transgender delegates like Miss Universe and Miss Intercontinental, this year's third edition will also feature four "plus-size" women contestants.

"It’s about me showing my best version, showcasing my advocacy, empowering women and trans women, and my LGBT community. And, finally, if I do my best, I can win," she stated, emphasizing her purpose in the competition.

Through her journey, Trajano hopes to inspire others, especially within the transgender community. "I want to be that reminder that you can do whatever you dream of," she said. "I’m willing to change the world in my own simple way. And hopefully this transpires through the whole world, to start from their own way."

Reflecting on the path she's traveled, Trajano acknowledged the difficulties she faced. "I’m grateful for everything that I’ve experienced in my life, all the hardships, all the abuse, all the discrimination, all the rejections. It led me to where I belong, which is Universal Woman," she shared.

The pageant's third edition was originally planned for India this month. However, organizers decided to postpone the competition following retaliatory missile strikes between India and Pakistan in early May concerning the Kashmir region.

Details regarding the new date and location for the Universal Woman 2025 pageant have not yet been announced. The current titleholder is Maria Gigante, the Cebuana event host who was the Philippines’ inaugural representative in the pageant.

When asked why she believes she should be the next Universal Woman, Trajano offered a profound response: "I have a story to tell. Our story transcends everything." She continued, "Our stories, our narratives are symbols of past, present and future. And stories are legacies... Stories are a message of hope. And all of us are different representations of hopes and empowerment. But my story is really mine. And that will transcend generations."

Pride Month power: Actor Adrian Lindayag marries Michael Dychiao in US

Actor Adrian Lindayag recently celebrated a major milestone, tying the knot with his longtime partner, Michael Dychiao, in New York City. The joyous occasion took place fittingly during Pride Month.

Lindayag shared photos from their special day on Instagram Friday, June 13, capturing moments at the iconic Grand Central Terminal. The couple looked sharp, both wearing traditional barong tagalogs for their ceremony at the famous New York landmark.

Sharing the news with his followers, Lindayag posted the pictures with the caption, "It's official: We're MARRIED!!!" The announcement quickly drew an outpouring of congratulatory messages from friends and fellow celebrities, including Barbie Imperial, Elisse Joson, Maris Racal, Cherry Pie Picache, Kim Molina, and Charlie Dizon, among many others.

Cherry Pie Picache sent her regards, writing, "Best wishes! So happy for you dear! Love wins!" Actress Dimples Romana also commented, commending the couple's attire designer, Bessie Besana.

Known for his impactful roles in LGBTQ+ centered projects such as the hit boys love film 'The Boy Foretold by the Stars' and the drama series 'Love Beneath the Stars,' Lindayag has been a visible advocate on screen. Their wedding adds a personal celebration to the ongoing observance of Pride Month.

‘Just for me’: TV host Joyce Pring shares 15-year journey to a college degree

Television personality and video jockey Joyce Pring is set to achieve a significant milestone: earning her communications degree from the University of Perpetual Help. This accomplishment marks the culmination of a 15-year journey that saw her balance a thriving career with her academic aspirations.

Joyce recently shared her personal story in a heartfelt social media post, reflecting on the challenges she faced. At just 17, she had to put her studies on hold and begin working to help support herself due to financial difficulties. She described this necessity as crushing, especially given her big dreams and desire to finish school, feeling tired of having to grow up so quickly to navigate the chaos in her life.

For years, Joyce carried feelings of pain and shame, contemplating "wasted potential" and what she might have achieved had she followed a more traditional path. However, by her mid-twenties, she gained perspective, realizing that despite not taking the conventional route, her life had still unfolded successfully.

Indeed, Joyce built a name for herself, winning the Myx VJ Search in 2011 and later becoming a host on GMA's popular noontime show, Eat Bulaga!. Despite her professional success, the desire for her college degree remained.

It wasn't until 2023, encouraged by her manager, "Mama Betchay" Vidanes, that Joyce finally made the commitment to return to school. She dedicated herself to completing the remaining two years of her communications program.

Joyce emphasized that this pursuit was deeply personal, explaining she didn't publicize her return to studies initially. She wanted to ensure she was doing it for the right reasons – to close a chapter left open for 15 years – not for external validation, but "just for me." She believes the idea of choosing between a diploma and relying on personal drive ("diskarte") is a false choice, asserting that one can strive for both, even if the path is long and challenging.

Graduating, for Joyce, is a way to connect with and affirm her younger self, who felt dejected and forced to mature rapidly. She sees it as proof that despite the difficulties, she persevered and that her journey has been guided positively. An acknowledged avid learner and Quezon City Science High School alumna, she extended her gratitude to her professors, the college dean, her thesis adviser, friends, and her family, including her husband, actor Juancho Triviño, and their two children, Eliam and Aggie.

While there are suggestions for her to pursue postgraduate studies, Joyce noted that is a future conversation. For now, her focus is on the overflowing joy and gratitude for this achievement, which she views not just as a personal success but as a testament to the support she received and, ultimately, a reflection of grace and faithfulness.

9 notable Binibining Pilipinas 2025 candidates: From veterans to multi-talented queens

For over six decades, Binibining Pilipinas has been a cornerstone in solidifying the Philippines' status as a global pageant powerhouse. More than just a showcase of physical beauty, the pageant, through the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), serves as a significant platform for its candidates to champion important advocacies and initiatives.

The competition truly demonstrates that a beauty queen embodies intelligence, compassion, and a profound dedication to uplifting communities, going far beyond mere glamour.

This year's roster of candidates certainly lives up to this standard. On June 15, held at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum, 36 determined Filipinas representing diverse cities and regions will compete. They are set to impress with their unique styles, sharp minds, and impactful causes, all vying for the coveted opportunity to represent the country at the 63rd Miss International pageant in Tokyo, Japan.

As this exciting new edition unfolds, several contestants stand out. Here's a look at some of the notable candidates to keep an eye on, from familiar faces in the pageant world to those stepping into the spotlight from other fields:

Francesca Beatriz Alvalajon from Aklan Province is quickly making her mark in Philippine pageantry. She previously represented the Philippines at Miss Eco Teen International in Egypt in 2022, securing the first runner-up spot (or first princess). Her performance in the Resort Wear segment during that competition was particularly memorable, highlighting her grace and presence.

Now 22, Beatriz is balancing her studies in psychology with professional roles as a hotelier and media producer, demonstrating her commitment and capability both on and off the pageant stage.

Jeannette Reyes, representing Batangas City, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and serves as a lieutenant in the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary. Her advocacy centers on marine environmental protection and conservation, alongside promoting sustainable eco-tourism.

A proven winner, Jeannette was crowned Mutya ng Pilipinas in 2022 and went on to compete at the Miss Tourism International pageant in Malaysia in 2023. There, she earned the Miss Tourism Metropolitan International title and received the Miss SouthEast Asia Tourism Ambassadress special award.

Katrina Anne Johnson, hailing from Davao Province, is making a much-anticipated return to the Binibining Pilipinas stage. She previously competed in Binibining Pilipinas 2023, where she finished as first runner-up, fulfilling a promise made to her late mother, who had her own dream of joining the pageant.

Katrina's decision to compete again underscores her dedication to pageantry. Her strong performance in 2023, combined with her genuine personality and captivating presence, has built her a significant fanbase. As she aims for the crown once more in 2025, Katrina stands as an inspiring figure of resilience and heartfelt ambition.

Annabelle Mae McDonnell, representing Iligan City, is another candidate with international pageant experience. After placing as first runner-up at Miss Universe Philippines 2022, she represented the country at the Miss Charm pageant the following year, also finishing as first runner-up.

Annabelle has a long-standing commitment to philanthropy, volunteering with Save the Children Philippines. Through this work, she supports their mission to protect and improve the lives of children in marginalized communities, an advocacy she aims to continue and expand through her Binibining Pilipinas journey.

From the world of acting to the pageant stage, Dalia Varde Khattab of Las Piñas is a familiar face to fans of the hit series "He’s Into Her," where she played the character Kim.

Born in Kuwait to an Egyptian father and a Filipino mother, the 21-year-old Star Magic artist is now a Binibining Pilipinas 2025 candidate. Her transition from the entertainment industry brings a unique background to the competition.

Jercy Raine Cruz, representing Makati, is a seasoned pageant participant who began competing at age 15. Her significant breakthrough came in 2023 when she was crowned Miss Chinatown Philippines, driven by her goal to support and highlight the Filipino-Chinese community.

Now 26, she hopes her advocacy for volunteerism can reach and positively impact an even wider population of Filipinos through the Binibining Pilipinas platform.

Alyssa Rae Zabala from Marikina is a cum laude graduate in architecture from the University of Santo Tomas. Her pageant aspirations trace back to a family legacy, as both her mother and aunt were former Binibining Pilipinas candidates.

Currently working as an architecture apprentice, she is also a passionate advocate for sustainable cities and environmental preservation, combining her professional skills with her desire for positive change.

Mia Betina Golosino of Malabon is one of the youngest contenders this year at just 19, making her pageant debut. Her participation is deeply connected to her advocacy focused on early childhood development.

Despite being raised in the United Kingdom, Mia shared in an interview that her family ensured she remained connected to her roots, instilling Filipino values and culture. Notably, she gained attention in 2017 at age 11 for achieving an impressive intelligence quotient (IQ) of 162.

Kathleen Enid Espenido, representing Siargao, is a Filipino-Australian beauty queen, model, and surfer widely recognized from her time as a housemate in Pinoy Big Brother: Kumunity Season 10.

Inspired by her upbringing in Siargao in a family predominantly of women, she is a strong champion for women empowerment. She also initiated her own project, KAI (Knowledge, Action, and Inspiration), aimed at assisting communities in building resilience and encouraging individuals to take meaningful action. Holding the title of Miss Fit Philippines, Kai sets her sights on adding the Binibining Pilipinas crown to her achievements.

7 songs for a maybe-not-quite happy Father’s Day playlist

Leo Tolstoy famously observed that while happy families share similarities, unhappy ones are distinct in their struggles. Thinking about it, family bonds truly do unfold in countless, often complex, ways – some loudly, some quietly, many simply blending into the background.

Sometimes, the deepest family wounds aren't from outright abandonment, but from the subtle, persistent hurts inflicted by overprotection, unspoken expectations, pride, or even love expressed in ways that miss the mark – too little, too late, or in the wrong form.

Not every household celebrates Father's Day with fanfare. For many, it's a day filled with complicated emotions, where words might fail and silences linger. This playlist isn't a simple tribute or a harsh critique; instead, it's a collection of songs that navigate the intricate relationships many of us experience or have inherited.

Consider these tracks a space to sit with what remains unresolved or what has closed, what still stings or gently lingers, and to acknowledge the courage it takes to name that pain in the first place.

Let's start with "Tahanan" by indie folk band Munimuni. Their signature "makata pop" shines through in this song, where the Filipino word for "home" takes on multiple layers of meaning. Here, it's not just a place to return to, but also a gentle command to find solace.

Lines like "Hanggang dito na lamang ang 'yong mga luha / tahan na" (Your tears end here / please stop now) feel like exit wounds, suggesting that grief can be held, like a hand, without needing to be fixed. The song doesn't rush you out of sadness; instead, it sits beside it, offering comfort like cooing to a child. Munimuni's steady harmonies feel like a supportive arm around your shoulder, quietly promising presence ("umaakay sa'yo / nandito lang ako" - guiding you / I am just here) even if you're not ready to forgive or remember fondly. If this day brings sorrowful tears, let this song be a companion, especially if you're still searching for what healing looks like, knowing only that you long for a space you can truly call "home," a place where peace might eventually arrive.

Next up is "Kyoto" by Phoebe Bridgers. This critically acclaimed indie rock track pairs a surprisingly brisk horn section and upbeat rhythm with lyrics that slowly unravel, sung in Bridgers' low voice, the words edged more with weariness than outright anger. She never needs to raise her voice as she details her father's various shortcomings – from broken promises of sobriety to late birthday greetings.

"I don’t forgive you / but please don’t hold me to it," she sings, a line that layers meaning. What initially seems like distance quickly reveals itself as the soft scarring of longing. This isn't a song about a single explosive moment of disappointment; it's about the slow accumulation of neglect that gradually erodes a child's trust.

The song reminds us that fathers aren't always monstrous villains; sometimes, they simply weren't present when they were needed. While some songs wallow in grief, "Kyoto" chooses to shrug, pack its bags, yet leaves the lights on, perhaps for a reconciliation that, if it ever happens, might arrive awkwardly.

Moving on to "Waltz of Four Left Feet" by Manila-based act shirebound. While often interpreted as a song about unrequited romantic love, it seamlessly translates into the language of family relationships – think of missed father-daughter dances, hands never held in milestone photographs, important questions about growing up left unanswered.

Delivered in shirebound's characteristic lo-fi hush, the song captures the wistful grace of someone trying to find peace with being on the periphery, whose love asks for nothing in return. Can repeating the chorus enough times – "Hindi ko naman yata ikakamamatay / kung hindi ko mahawakan ang iyong kamay" (I probably won't die / if I don't get to hold your hand) – somehow make it true?

The melody itself, a beautifully awkward riff hovering on the edge of something more complete, sways like a hesitant slow dance between two people who yearn to get it right but can't quite sync up. It embodies the act of trying anyway. Unlike many songs with similar themes that might dramaticize their grief, this track avoids grand declarations or soaring crescendos. Instead, it remains committed to its stripped-down tune, eerily echoing the experience of loving from a distance, accepting partial presence, and dancing on, even when every step feels slightly off.

Let's shift gears with Little Simz's "I Love You, I Hate You." Instead of a melodramatic ballad, this track delivers its profound reckoning through urgent bars and orchestral depth. It's a stark, honest look at the first man many of us are taught to idolize. The song confronts the emotional fallout of paternal absence and human fallibility with striking clarity, never letting anger overshadow insight.

What emerges is not a simple villain, but the result of a difficult humanization process for the person who perhaps taught you about love by its very absence. Here, the father is seen not as a myth, but as a man who was once a boy. The daughter, too, isn't just a child in need but a woman grappling with inherited silence.

Yet, even as the hurt unfolds, mercy is present. Not the kind that grants easy absolution, but the kind that views both figures – father and daughter – as flawed individuals trying, failing, and trying again to connect. The raw anger in "Is you a sperm donor or a dad to me?" sits alongside the poignant pity in "He was just once a boy, I often seem to forget," neither sentiment negating the other. Holding both allows the idealized image to crumble without breeding contempt. There's a powerful lesson in her verses about how the cycle of generational pain can be broken through the challenging, everyday act of truly seeing each other as human beings.

Moving back to Filipino music, Rey Valera’s song “Walang Kapalit,” like many of its era, immediately conjures a sense of nostalgia. It feels like a track best heard on cassette or hummed during a slow ride home.

The music is unhurried, and the iconic Manila sound artist's voice carries the quiet ache of someone who has learned that love in this world, especially familial love, is most intensely felt, and most painful, as duty. It's a song of complete giving with no expectation of return, a form of martyrdom so deeply ingrained in Filipino homes that it resonates with ancestral history.

Its lyrics offer glimpses into how devotion is often passed down – reminding us how love, particularly within families, is often expressed through sacrifice, silence, and an inability to voice one's own exhaustion. It might bring to mind the father who, bound by traditional masculinity, never spoke words of love to his children, or the child who learned to endure, having inherited a love that perpetually gave but never dared to ask for anything back.

Sade's "Babyfather" is sung as if conjuring a figure from thin air, her voice a smooth balm pressed onto a wound. Written for her daughter, the song subtly references two men – the child's father and stepfather – blending them into a soft, blurred image. Her voice exudes certainty, introducing a baby to the fathers who love them, yet it invites listeners to ponder: do you and your mother perceive the same man?

As the lines repeat, "Your daddy knows you’re a flame," and "your daddy love come with a lifetime guarantee," the song shimmers with a warmth that seems to conceal something cooler beneath the surface. Part lullaby for the child, part reflection addressed to the woman holding memories of a man in her heart, "Babyfather" might offer comfort to some. For others, the mantra-like affirmations may feel like a mother's labored attempt to smooth over a truth too complex to articulate.

Regardless, like much of Sade's work, it's a stunning, almost haunting, track born from the depths of love.

Finally, we arrive at "paruparo" by syd hartha. This song exemplifies hartha's nuanced songwriting style with its delicate repetition and layered lyrics, tracing the timeless journey of transformation through the enduring metaphor of a butterfly emerging from a burst chrysalis.

The song tells the story of choosing to grow, even when the belief in that growth is fragile. Part of its beauty lies in not romanticizing the butterfly; it's portrayed as vulnerable, sometimes doubted, constantly in motion. Even flight, the song warns, doesn't guarantee freedom from the pull of the earth. "Sa laya ng lipad, maaari pa rin na sumayad" (In the freedom of flight, one can still touch the ground), her voice echoes.

To grow without a father's warmth – or perhaps worse, in the shadow of his harm, as the songwriter has shared – doesn't mean your growth must be attributed to his, or anyone else's, negativity. This song offers not retaliation, but something more powerful: a quiet refusal to be defined or shaped by absence.

syd hartha resists the weight of what she leaves unnamed, allowing something brighter to take root in difficult ground. Her lyrics blossom with the maturity of someone who understands that survival isn't always loud, and flight isn't always grand or majestic. Sometimes it's slow, uneven, maybe a little lopsided, but in all its paths, it is still flight. And "paruparo" teaches us how to carry that inherent fragility with grace and dignity.

So, listen. Whether Father's Day feels truly happy, complicated, or somewhere in between, perhaps these tracks can offer a moment of connection. Maybe none resonate, maybe just one does. Take what feels right for you, and leave the rest. Listen closely to the music that plays within your own story – of the past and the hopes for the future.

What you need to know about Binibining Pilipinas 2025

The Philippines' longest-running national beauty pageant is set for its 61st edition this Sunday, June 15. Binibining Pilipinas 2025 will culminate in a grand coronation night at the Araneta Coliseum, where 36 hopeful candidates will compete.

Contestants are vying for two prestigious titles: Binibining Pilipinas International and Binibining Pilipinas Globe. The winners will earn the right to represent the country on the international stage. The reigning Binibining Pilipinas International, Myrna Esguerra of Abra, will compete in the Miss International 2025 pageant in Tokyo, Japan, later this year. Jasmin Bungay from Pampanga, last year's Binibining Pilipinas Globe, placed second runner-up at the 2024 Miss Globe competition.

The grand coronation will see Myrna Esguerra and Jasmin Bungay pass on their crowns to the new set of queens.

This year's batch features several familiar faces from the pageant circuit and entertainment scene. Among them is Annabelle Mae McDonnell from Iligan City, previously a first runner-up at both Miss Universe Philippines 2022 and Miss Charm International 2023. Also returning are Katrina Anne Johnson of Davao, the 2023 Binibining Pilipinas first runner-up, and Anna Carres de Mesa of Batangas, a semifinalist in 2022.

Other notable contestants with prior experience include Jeanette Reyes (2023 Miss Tourism Metropolitan International), Jercy Raine Cruz (2023 Miss Chinatown Philippines), Francesca Beatriz Abalajon (2024 Miss Grand Philippines finalist), and Maria Andrea Endicio (2024 Miss World Philippines semifinalist), who is also recognized as a courtside reporter for the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League. Additionally, Kathleen Enid Espenido, known for her appearance on Pinoy Big Brother, and Dalia Varde Khattab, who featured in the series "He’s Into Her," are also competing.

Adding excitement to the night, P-pop sensation SB19 is scheduled to perform. Despite being in the midst of their "Simula at Wakas" world tour, which recently kicked off and includes upcoming stops internationally, the group is returning to the Binibining Pilipinas stage for their third appearance.

The coronation night will be hosted by a lineup of prominent beauty queens. Nicole Cordoves is set to host for the seventh consecutive time, joined by MJ Lastimosa for her third straight year and Kylie Verzosa for her second. Maureen Ann Montagne, The Miss Globe 2021 titleholder, will also be part of the hosting team. Reigning Miss International, Thanh Thuy from Vietnam, is expected to attend as a special guest.

Harvey Weinstein judge declares mistrial on rape charge, 3rd sex crimes trial planned

In a notable development from the Manhattan courtroom, the judge presiding over the criminal trial of former Hollywood movie mogul Harvey Weinstein declared a mistrial on one of the rape charges he faced on Thursday, June 12.

This ruling came the day after Weinstein was convicted of a separate felony sex abuse offense and acquitted on another count. The mistrial was prompted by the jury foreperson, who informed Justice Curtis Farber of the state Supreme Court that they could no longer deliberate for a sixth consecutive day, following reports of dissension among jury members.

The unresolved charge that resulted in the mistrial is third-degree rape, linked to allegations made by aspiring actress Jessica Mann concerning an incident in 2013. Prosecutors have stated their intention to proceed with a third trial for Weinstein specifically on this count, and a hearing has been scheduled for July 2.

Earlier, on Wednesday, June 11, the jury delivered a mixed verdict on the remaining two charges. Weinstein was found guilty of first-degree criminal sexual act regarding alleged conduct involving former production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006. Conversely, he was acquitted of the same charge related to accusations by aspiring actress Kaja Sokola from 2002.

Weinstein, 73, has consistently pleaded not guilty to the charges and denies ever assaulting anyone or engaging in non-consensual sex. His legal team has announced plans to appeal the recent conviction, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 25 years in prison.

Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse, Arthur Aidala, Weinstein's lawyer, claimed his team possessed "very powerful evidence of gross jury misconduct" during the trial, including allegations that jurors considered outside information about Weinstein's behavior.

Weinstein's dramatic fall from grace, beginning in 2017, became a catalyst for the global #MeToo movement, which encouraged women to come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against powerful figures across various industries.

Prosecutors in Manhattan argued that Weinstein exploited his considerable power and influence to trap and abuse women. In contrast, the defense maintained that Weinstein's accusers were untruthful, suggesting they fabricated their stories out of spite after their consensual encounters failed to advance their careers in Hollywood.

This recent trial was a retrial ordered after New York state's highest court overturned Weinstein's original 2020 conviction and 23-year prison sentence last year. That prior conviction also involved charges related to Jessica Mann and Miriam Haley.

Beyond the proceedings in New York, Weinstein is simultaneously appealing a separate rape conviction and a 16-year prison sentence he received in California in 2022.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg characterized Wednesday's verdict as a successful outcome for his office. He dismissed concerns about jury misconduct, viewing the disagreements among jurors as indicative of a vigorous exchange of ideas during deliberations. Bragg also expressed deep gratitude to Weinstein's accusers for their resilience and willingness to come forward.

Bragg emphasized the pressure faced by the accusers, stating, "They were accused of being money hungry, they were called liars, they were even told that they, in fact, were abusers. But they stood their ground, and for that I am extremely grateful." Bragg is running for re-election in November.

The declaration of a mistrial on Thursday followed the jury foreperson's communication to Justice Farber the day prior. The foreperson reported being subjected to shouting and threats from other jurors due to his refusal to change his vote on the charge that remained undecided. Justice Farber had sent the jury home to compose themselves after hearing this.

Weinstein's attendance throughout the trial in Manhattan was marked by his ongoing health issues, often requiring him to use a wheelchair. In the months leading up to the court proceedings, he was held at Rikers Island jail and received medical care at a hospital in Manhattan.

The business repercussions of the widespread accusations against Weinstein began even before his first conviction. His eponymous film studio filed for bankruptcy in March 2018, approximately five months after the initial public reports of sexual misconduct emerged.

Puregold’s OPM Con 2025 is this year’s destination music event

 

Set to light up the Philippine Arena on July 5, Puregold’sOPM Con 2025 is sparking a global wave of excitement, with fans across the world making plans to witness the historic music festival—live. 

 

With ardent concert goers reportedly flying in from Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) intent on coming home, as well, the much-anticipated OPM Con is shaping up into a lavish homecoming and celebration rolled into one.

 

Across the archipelago, local buzz reflects the ongoing global draw. Puregold stores in Butuan, Bacolod, and Leyte report early ticket sell-outs, with shoppers booking flights and long-haul bus rides to be part of the musical milestone. The Philippine Arena is expected to welcome not just fans, but a wave of homegrown tourists seeking a full-blown concert experience on a grand global scale.

 

“More than anything, we organized the Puregold OPM Con 2025 as a service for all our shoppers and music fans,” says Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold’s Senior Marketing Manager. “Expect a powerful lineup and heart-pounding performances. Whether you’re a stan for today’s hottest artists or grew up on classic OPM, join us as we make music history together.”

 

Whichever way it goes, this unprecedented interest attests to the power of Puregold’s retailtainment—and to the fusion of heart, heritage, and showmanship. With a lineup featuring today’s most iconic OPM artists and a vision to make world-class entertainment accessible to every Filipino, OPM Con 2025 isn’t just this year’s destination music event—it’s a celebration of who we are.

 

As the countdown to July begins, one thing is clear: the world is watching.

 

For more updates, follow and subscribe to PuregoldChannel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and @puregoldph on TikTok.

[WATCH] Rappler Live Jam: CALISTA

Attention, A-listas! The rising P-pop quartet, CALISTA, recently made their debut on Rappler Live Jam, treating fans to a special performance.

Comprising members Anne, Denise, Elle, and Dain, CALISTA first stepped into the music scene in 2022 with their debut single titled "Race Car." Since then, they have expanded their discography with tracks including "Don't Have Time," "Christmas Rush," and "Ugnayan."

To kick off the year, the group also unveiled their first-ever EP, aptly named 'FOUR'. This EP features a collection of songs such as “LMK (Let Me Know),” “Bongga Ka Day,” “OOPS MY BAD,” “Alas Dose,” and “‘Wag Na.”

Fans can catch CALISTA's full Rappler Live Jam performance by visiting the designated page or heading over to Rappler’s YouTube channel.