Anna Magkawas Headlines Village Pipol’s 18th Anniversary

 

Village Pipol Magazine celebrated its 18th anniversary last October 15, at The Vibe Arcovia, marking a debut of growth, gratitude, and inspiration. With the theme “Powered by Roots, Thriving into the Future,” the event gathered over 100 brands, partners, and friends of the magazine for a night that honored legacy.

The milestone signified more than longevity—it represented maturity and purpose. Just like a debut, it was a coming-of-age moment for Village Pipol, reflecting on the community and partnerships that have helped it grow while embracing the vision of the years ahead.

At the center of this celebration stood Anna Magkawas, entrepreneur and cover personality of Village Pipol’s 18th anniversary issue. Her story of resilience, groundedness, and determination perfectly embodied the essence of this year’s theme.

A Woman Grounded in Purpose

Rowena D Belgica Country Manager Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group and Richie De Quina RED Entertainment President

Known for her role as a business leader of Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group and an empowering figure for many aspiring entrepreneurs, Anna’s journey is a reflection of Village Pipol’s own story: built through relationships, resilience, and authenticity. Her feature in the anniversary issue highlights the strength that comes from being grounded in one’s beginnings, while continuously striving for growth.

“Success means nothing if you forget the people who were with you from the very beginning. Always stay rooted, remain humble, and never think too highly of yourself.”

Anna’s presence reminds everyone that true success is a shared story. Just as Village Pipol has grown through the support of its partners and readers, Anna’s success is proof that no one thrives alone—it takes a village to build a legacy.

Village Pipol’s Sales and Marketing Head Regino Rubi shared why Anna was the perfect choice for this milestone cover.

“She truly deserves to be the main cover. Even now that she’s at the peak of her success, we still see her working with the same people, finding time for her family, and always putting her Luxers at the heart of her business,” said Rubi.

Gilded Origins: A Night of Elegance

The 18th anniversary celebration shimmered under the concept “Gilded Origins,” with guests in black, silver, and gold, symbolizing strength and triumph. The night was filled with stories, toasts, and shared gratitude; a moment that looks forward to a future fueled by the same passion that started it all.

Thriving into the Future

This celebration underscored Village Pipol’s ongoing commitment to celebrating authentic stories of people who rise by staying true to their roots. As the publication moves forward, it continues to thrive on the same values that shaped it from the start: credibility, creativity, and connection.

Anna Magkawas’ feature serves as a reminder of what it means to thrive into the future while remaining deeply rooted in purpose. Her journey mirrors the very spirit of Village Pipol built by community, strengthened by collaboration, and guided by authenticity.

As the magazine turns a new page, it carries with it the message that success is never solitary—it’s shared, nurtured, and grown by a village. And in celebrating 18 years of stories and strength, Village Pipol Magazine remains steadfast in its mission to honor the people who make every milestone possible.

Rappler Live Jam: ena mori

Get ready, music enthusiasts! The uniquely talented Japanese-Filipina artist, ena mori, is making her highly anticipated return to Rappler Live Jam this Thursday, October 16.

This special performance comes just months after the release of her latest EP, 'rOe,' a captivating body of work that delves into deeply personal themes. Fans are eager to experience her distinct sound live once more.

ena mori describes 'rOe' as her candid encounter with stepping into her twenties, all while a part of her heart remains tethered to childhood. "For this EP, I wanted to explore my memories and how I see them now, through the eyes of an adult. Maybe it’s a longing for that innocent state of being — or perhaps I’m just a little addicted to the comfort of nostalgia," she revealed, highlighting the EP's introspective journey.

This six-track collection follows her acclaimed full-length album, "DON’T BLAME THE WILD ONE!," which was released three years prior. To catch ena mori performing songs from 'rOe,' make sure to tune into Rappler Live Jam on Thursday at 8 pm PHT. You can bookmark this page or head directly to Rappler’s YouTube channel to watch the live session.

Maricel Soriano, Piolo Pascual make Star Cinema comeback in family tearjerker

Twelve years after her last appearance, the iconic Diamond Star Maricel Soriano is set to captivate audiences once again in a Star Cinema film, making a much-anticipated return alongside sought-after leading man Piolo Pascual. Their new project, a family tearjerker titled "Meet, Greet & Bye," promises an emotional journey that confronts the universal truth of losing those we hold dearest.

In this poignant film, Soriano takes on the role of Baby Facundo, a matriarch whose illness prompts her children to unite and fulfill her heartfelt wish: to meet her favorite K-drama star. This dream comes with a crucial condition – she must agree to seek medical treatment afterward. Piolo Pascual, also returning to Star Cinema after his 2017 film "Last Night," portrays Tupe, Baby's eldest son, who shoulders the responsibility of keeping the family together amidst their mother's challenging condition. Rounding out the family are Gen Z stars Joshua Garcia as Brad, Belle Mariano as Geri, and Juan Karlos Labajo as Leo, all contributing to a narrative rich in familial struggles and the bravery required to face inevitable goodbyes. The film is helmed by multi-awarded director Cathy Garcia-Sampana, known for her box-office hits like "Hello, Love, Again" and "The Hows of Us."

For Piolo, this comeback to Star Cinema feels like a homecoming to his "family" – the very studio that nurtured his talent and provided his initial big break. He expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to be part of a film that authentically portrays the complexities and deep affection within family relationships, noting Star Cinema's trusted reputation for such dramas.

Maricel Soriano, too, was drawn to the project not just by its compelling story but also by the caliber of her co-stars. She praised their dedication and artistry, remarking on the genuine talent and kindness she experienced on set, emphasizing how "very, very real" the narrative felt to her.

The experience of working with industry legends like Soriano and Pascual was a first for young stars Belle Mariano and Juan Karlos Labajo. Despite the generational difference, the cast forged a deep familial bond off-screen, making the filming process both easier and more meaningful.

Labajo fondly recalled the set as a "home filled with laughter and warmth," admitting to feeling "separation anxiety" now that filming has wrapped. Mariano echoed this sentiment, sharing how Maricel's maternal warmth quickly dispelled her initial apprehension, leading her to affectionately call Soriano "mama." This authentic connection, Mariano believes, was crucial in delivering their characters' emotions convincingly on screen.

While the off-screen dynamic was light and joyful, the cast acknowledged the heavy emotional weight of their roles, as the story resonates deeply with the painful reality of losing a loved one. Piolo Pascual reflected on the film hitting "close to home," particularly for Filipino families, highlighting the universal heartbreak associated with familial loss.

The film's emotional core stems from a very personal place for its writers, Jumbo Albano and Patrick Valencia. They revealed that "Meet, Greet & Bye" was inspired by their greatest fear – losing their parents – describing the film as a "love letter" to their own parents, a sentiment echoed by their director towards her children.

The writers intentionally crafted the story to be universally relatable, understanding that the fear of losing a loved one transcends individual experiences. Maricel Soriano, a revered mother figure in the industry, hopes the movie will serve as a powerful reminder to audiences about the irreplaceable importance of parents and the necessity of constantly expressing love and appreciation to them.

"Meet, Greet & Bye" is slated for a worldwide premiere beginning November 12 under Star Cinema, with details regarding international screening territories to be announced soon.

Rappler Talk Entertainment: The cast of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’

Manila's theater scene is currently vibrant with the grand opening of Rockwell’s brand new Proscenium theater, proudly hosting the highly anticipated "The Bodyguard The Musical." This spectacular production captivates audiences by bringing to life the unforgettable hits from the 1992 movie starring Whitney Houston, along with a selection of her other greatest chart-toppers, including the infectious "I Wanna Dance With Somebody."

The talented ensemble, presented by 9Works Theatrical, features Filipina West End star Christine Allado in the leading role of Rachel Marron, while Matt Blaker embodies the steadfast bodyguard, Frank Farmer. Adding further depth to the cast is award-winning gospel singer-songwriter Sheena Palad, who portrays Nicki Marron.

Recently, Rappler Talk Entertainment had the pleasure of welcoming Sheena Palad, alongside her co-stars CJ Navato, who plays Ray Court, and Vyen Villanueva. They offered an insightful visit to discuss the ongoing show and what makes this musical a must-see event.

For those keen to experience this musical sensation, "The Bodyguard The Musical" is scheduled to run for one more weekend, concluding its performances on October 19. The full Rappler Talk episode featuring the cast became available for viewing starting Thursday, October 16, at 4 pm.

Springsteen film strips away the myth to depict ‘Bruce, the man’

Music icon Bruce Springsteen recently made a surprise appearance at the London Film Festival, gracing the red carpet for the premiere of his new biographical film. Titled "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere," this movie promises to offer a deeply personal look into the legendary musician's life, moving beyond the public persona to explore the man behind the anthems.

The highly anticipated film features Jeremy Allen White, acclaimed for his role in "The Bear," stepping into the shoes of the multiple Grammy winner. White is joined by Stephen Graham, who portrays Springsteen's father, and "Succession" star Jeremy Strong, playing his long-time manager, Jon Landau. Directed and co-written by Scott Cooper, the movie draws inspiration from Warren Zanes' book of the same name.

Unlike a typical career retrospective, "Deliver Me from Nowhere" delves into a pivotal, often challenging, period of Springsteen's youth. It explores his struggles with inner demons and childhood trauma while he was in the midst of writing his raw, introspective 1982 album, *Nebraska*. The narrative also bravely tackles his complex relationship with his father, highlighting themes of familial connection, mental health, and the transformative power of art in confronting personal pain.

Jeremy Strong emphasized the film's courage in demystifying such a legendary figure, stating it's about "repairing trauma through art and confronting depression." Crucially, Springsteen himself, now 76, was actively involved in the production. Lead actor Jeremy Allen White recounted how Springsteen offered his "blessing" and even gifted him a guitar to learn on, fostering an authentic portrayal rather than a mere imitation.

This marks the first time Bruce Springsteen's remarkable journey has been brought to the big screen in a biographical feature. After its festival debut, "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere" is set to begin its global cinematic rollout on October 22, inviting audiences worldwide to witness a poignant and unfiltered look at "The Boss."

Rappler Talk Entertainment: The cast of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’

Get ready to be moved! "The Bodyguard The Musical" has officially opened its spectacular run at Rockwell’s brand new Proscenium theater, promising an unforgettable experience for fans of Whitney Houston. This highly anticipated production brings the magic of the 1992 film to the stage, featuring a dazzling array of Houston's greatest hits, including the iconic "I Wanna Dance With Somebody."

The cast is nothing short of phenomenal. Filipina West End sensation Christine Allado takes on the challenging lead role of Rachel Marron, while Matt Blaker embodies the steadfast bodyguard, Frank Farmer. Adding her powerful voice to the ensemble is award-winning gospel singer-songwriter Sheena Palad, portraying Nicki Marron, setting the stage for a truly powerhouse vocal performance.

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting some of the show's talented stars on Rappler Talk Entertainment. Sheena Palad, along with co-stars CJ Navato (who plays Ray Court) and Vyen Villanueva, joined us to share insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the production. If you missed it, you can catch the full interview now.

But hurry! "The Bodyguard The Musical" is only running for one more weekend, concluding on October 19. Don't miss your chance to witness this breathtaking spectacle and relive the timeless music of Whitney Houston live on stage.

Rappler Live Jam: ena mori

Get ready to tune in as the talented Japanese-Filipina soloist, ena mori, makes her anticipated return to Rappler Live Jam this Thursday, October 16! She's back just months after releasing her latest EP, 'rOe', promising another captivating performance for fans.

Her newest musical endeavor, the six-track EP titled 'rOe', delves into a poignant exploration of stepping into her twenties while still grappling with lingering fragments of childhood. It's a journey of self-discovery, confronting the nuances of growth and transition.

Speaking about the inspiration behind 'rOe', ena mori revealed in a press release, "For this EP, I wanted to explore my memories and how I see them now, through the eyes of an adult. Maybe it’s a longing for that innocent state of being — or perhaps I’m just a little addicted to the comfort of nostalgia."

This evocative EP follows three years after the successful launch of her acclaimed full-length album, 'DON’T BLAME THE WILD ONE!', showcasing her continuous evolution as an artist.

Make sure to catch ena mori as she performs songs from 'rOe' live on Rappler Live Jam this Thursday at 8 PM (PHT). You can easily join the session by bookmarking this page or heading directly to Rappler’s YouTube channel.

JM Granado’s cooking up Filipino food like you’ve never seen before

 

JM Granado has been taking comforting Pinoy culinary classics to new and exciting places barely ever imagined before. The home cook turned FoodTok icon has been capturing the imaginations of the online landscape with his unique twists on familiar Filipino dishes. Looking for a warm, savory bowl of sinigang to get through the rainy season? Granado fuses it with the noodles and umami of Japanese ramen. Have some leftover kaldereta taking up space in the fridge? Use it as the protein for a decidedly Pinoy tasting take on the grilled cheese sandwich.

These are just some of the innovations borne of Granado’s intense passion for the flavors from his childhood. “I started cooking because I wanted to recreate the flavors I grew up with which is Filipino cuisine,” said Granado. “Over time it became something more. I started sharing my cooking online during the pandemic and people connected with it.”

Far from just connecting to his recipes, netizens have flocked to JM Granado for continued inspiration in the kitchen. His TikTok account currently has over 130,000 followers, with his most watched video on the website having reached 13.9 million followers. In this video, he presents a brilliant fusion of Pinoy and Chinese flavors with a ginataang vegetable dumpling recipe.

Granado’s passion as a home cook has allowed him to break free from culinary traditions and embrace the creativity allowed by his audience and kitchen. “I like mixing familiar flavors with new ideas. Hindi naman fine-dining level, just food na hind imo aakalain na magma-make sense. Since I’m a home cook, I don’t really follow rules.”

The creativity on display in his dishes remains rooted in a respect for the traditions that he works in though. For example, one of his signature dishes brings a Pinoy twist to an American breakfast favorite: chicken and waffles. Granado swapped out the traditional waffle for a pancake bursting with the sweet flavors of bibingka instead. The combination of familiar flavors in a surprising new form has made bibingka’t chicken a major bestseller at Granado’s restaurant Silid in Mallorca City.

This understanding of tradition but forward-thinking creativity has helped Granado stand out in the online space. On top of his myriad followers, he’s also already collaborated with such major brands as Knorr, Heinz, Selecta, and even Grab. Granado’s expertise and practiced hand at content creation has allowed for fruitful collaborations that fuse share-worthy videos with brand recognition. Each time, he brings a personal touch to each collaboration, creating true, resonant stories that speak to his audience.

Granado has since taken a further step in this online journey as he’s now represented by Sphere Celebrity and Influencer Management. “Now that I’m part of Sphere, sobra akong excited to collaborate more and share bigger stories,” said Granado.

It’s clear that whatever JM Granado’s cooking up in the kitchen, everyone will be rushing to take the first bite.

For further inquiries, contact Sphere Celebrity and Influencer

Management at 09178017876 or inquiresphere.ph@gmail.com.

D’Angelo, trailblazing neo-soul singer, dies at 51

The music world is mourning the profound loss of a true pioneer. D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B artist credited with trailblazing the neo-soul genre, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, at the age of 51. His family confirmed the sad news in a statement, revealing he had been in a "prolonged and courageous battle with cancer."

In their heartfelt announcement, D'Angelo's family expressed profound sorrow, stating, "We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind." They poignantly added, "the shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life," underscoring the deep personal loss felt by those closest to him.

The news quickly reverberated across social media, sparking an outpouring of grief and gratitude. Fans and artists alike shared emotional tributes, reflecting on the immense impact D'Angelo had on their lives and the broader music landscape. Fellow artist Doja Cat notably praised him as "a true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come," highlighting his enduring influence.

Born Michael Eugene Archer, D'Angelo burst onto the music scene in the 1990s, defining a new sound with his seminal debut album, *Brown Sugar*. Released in 1995, the album quickly rose to prominence, peaking at number four on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Hits like "Lady," which cracked the top 10 of Billboard’s Hot 100, alongside critically acclaimed tracks such as "Cruisin’" and the iconic title track, solidified his place in music history.

The significance of *Brown Sugar* was re-emphasized in 2020 when *Rolling Stone* lauded it as one of the greatest albums ever. The publication described it as "a visionary fusion of seventies soul and nineties R&B that paved the way for neo-soul," ranking it an impressive 183rd out of 500, a testament to its groundbreaking artistry.

Following his stellar debut, D’Angelo continued to push creative boundaries with two more studio albums: *Voodoo* in 2000 and *Black Messiah* in 2014. *Voodoo* notably spent two weeks atop Billboard’s Top 200 list, further cementing his critical and commercial success. He also lent his talents to collaborations with other luminaries of R&B and neo-soul, including Erykah Badu and featuring on Lauryn Hill’s groundbreaking 1998 debut, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill*.

Beyond his musical genius, D’Angelo also famously became a reluctant sex symbol following the release of his 2000 hit, "Untitled (How Does It Feel)." The song's popular music video, featuring a shirtless D'Angelo, cemented this image, though he often downplayed the label, consistently emphasizing his desire to be recognized solely for his musical artistry.

A testament to his unparalleled talent, D’Angelo earned four Grammy Awards from 14 nominations throughout his illustrious career. Critically, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time, a voice that transcended genres and left an indelible mark.

In a 2023 tribute, *Rolling Stone* eloquently captured his vocal mastery: "Few modern singers so freely display their church roots — but rather than a showboat, his phrasing is often understated, building patiently to torrid screams that could make the stoutest church lady feel positively sinful." The publication further praised how his "subtle phrasing makes his music deeply durable, just like his gorgeous natural instrument," beautifully intertwined with intricate arrangements.

In recent years, D’Angelo had adopted a more reclusive lifestyle. His passing comes just months after the death of singer Angie Stone, with whom he shared a son. He is survived by his three children, leaving behind a profound musical legacy for generations to cherish.

PH’s Emma Tiglao radiates as moon goddess in Miss Grand national costume

Filipino elegance took center stage at the Miss Grand International 2025 national costume competition, where Miss Grand Philippines, Emma Tiglao, captivated audiences by embodying the Kapampangan moon goddess in her breathtaking ensemble, "Mayari: The Lunar Empress of Pampanga."

The multi-talented 30-year-old Kapampangan model, TV reporter, and beauty queen unveiled this mythology-inspired masterpiece at the MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, October 13th. Her stunning appearance precedes the much-anticipated coronation night, set for Saturday, October 18th.

Crafted by celebrated Filipino designer Patrick Isorena, the costume is a visual poem, designed to evoke the tranquil lunar glow of midnight and its shimmering reflection on calm waters. This ethereal vision was brought to life through exquisite blue sapphire and silver beadwork.

Every element of 'Mayari' tells a story. A striking crescent-shaped backdress, adorned with delicate filigree patterns, beautifully represents the moon's timeless cycles. The intricately structured bodice, featuring elegant wing-like embellishments, powerfully conveys the divine and regal essence of a goddess.

Adding to the celestial grandeur, an ombre cape gracefully cascades, reminiscent of the deepening night sky. As Tiglao moved across the Miss Grand International stage, this design choice allowed her to exude a captivating, soft moonlit aura, truly personifying Mayari.

Through this masterpiece, Tiglao and Isorena aimed to seamlessly blend the Philippines' rich mythological heritage with contemporary artistry. Their vision was to portray Mayari not just as a goddess, but as a timeless symbol of feminine strength, profound beauty, and equality. As Tiglao herself beautifully articulated on Instagram, "Each element weaves the story of a Filipina goddess — fearless yet graceful, mystical yet human, standing as a beacon of light amid darkness."

With her stunning 'Mayari' portrayal, Emma is now striving to achieve a historic back-to-back victory for the Philippines, following CJ Opiaza's assumption of the Miss Grand International title last year. All eyes will be on her as she competes for the coveted golden crown on October 18th in Bangkok, with fans worldwide able to tune into the coronation night live via GrandTV on YouTube.