Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Benj Pangilinan honor the tradition of ‘paying it forward’ through Season of Giving campaign

The initiative is part of a campaign to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity and malnutrition

Manila, Philippines – Sony Music Entertainment Philippines (SMEP) and Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan have recently linked up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP), an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world's most vulnerable, to support communities in Manila that are impacted by food insecurity and malnutrition.

This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company upholds its commitment in collaborating with partner organizations through a series of in-person events and charitable activities.

For this particular project, the international record label has collaborated with Rise Against Hunger Philippines in enacting programs that are design to uplift the lives of many people through food aid and entertainment. In a collective statement, RAHP was all praises to Sony Music Philippines and Benj for spreading the holiday joy with the children this season of giving. “Their dedication to give back not only makes this holiday season merrier for the kids, but also makes our mission to achieve food security all the more possible.”

The fast-rising recording star has recently joined the SMEP team through a day of volunteering and performances at the Better World Tondo community center, which functions as a food bank and feeding center. This is where RAHP holds food drives, and the AHA Learning Center manages an after-class studying program for the disadvantaged kids.

Aside from providing relief and assistance to the beneficiaries, Benj performed two songs, including his current single, “Dance Like You.”

“Giving back has always been something I’ve loved doing,” the Sony Music talent said. “This opportunity was a wonderful experience for me. Sometimes, when you bless others, you realize later how much you’ve gained and learned from the experience. I’m also grateful to Sony and my management team from Genesis for sharing my vision when it comes to giving back to the community.”

Offshore Music delivers ‘kaleidoscope of emotions’ on the 9-track holiday album, An Offshore Christmas

 

The compilation record features tracks from ena mori, Mt. Lewis, Elton Clark, Sansette, and more

Offshore Music, a Manila-based record label known for its focus on creative integrity, captures the spirit of the holiday season with a new compilation album featuring its stellar roster of local music acts.

Aptly titled An Offshore Christmas, the 9-track record earworms its way into the collective consciousness with diverse stories spanning generations and experiences, interpreting what Christmas meant from varied lenses: a joyful hymn that brims with life and humanity, a vodka-induced downer that revels in the sentiments of missing home, a quirky jam that envelopes listeners with comforting warmth, and simply, a frustrated sad song that barely keeps up with the season’s booming, optimistic energy.

As Offshore Music CEO Ely Buendia puts it, “The album is a kaleidoscope of emotions, from melancholy to euphoria, as well as a feast for anyone who enjoys all kinds of music.”

Offshore Music General Manager Audry Dionisio takes pride in the record’s insistence not to be boxed in the usual category of how a holiday-inspired album should be. She points out, “We also made sure that people from different walks of life would not feel left out. Every song in the album can be played way past the Christmas season, that’s for sure.”

The Christmas-themed album features recently released tracks from its esteemed lineup of artists, including Pinkmen, Suspiria Pink, Elton Clark, Sansette, Eliza Marie, JR Oca Experience, Sulo, as well as additional new songs from ena mori and Mt. Lewis.

“With the new roster of artists on board, it also created a fresh and inspired energy within us to collaborate more with them and for them to showcase their abilities to the public more,” Offshore Music A&R Director Pat Sarabia shares.

Mt. Lewis’ “Trip To Jerusalem,” the album’s focus track, provides a contemporary spin on The Eraserheads’ cult holiday classic while retaining the original’s intrinsic charm and fuzz. When asked about how he feels about the rendition, Ely Buendia expressed his approval of the band’s tenacity to breathe new life to an underrated, deep cut. “We thought it was fitting to honor their brave achievement by having one of our artists cover a song from Fruitcake for our own Christmas release.”

Another album highlight is ena mori’s “Christmas Song (Version II),” a bittersweet little tune about choosing to celebrate Christmas alone with cats rather than joining a party filled with family members and friends who do nothing but send a minefield of emotional triggers. Over snappy, acoustic guitars and minimal percussions, the alt-pop star delivers an anthem that is bold and uncompromising in its message but remains hopeful amidst the intention to hide the hurting.

Offshore A&R Manager Otep Tumambing emphasizes that the holiday record is more than just a reinforcement of postcard-perfect tradition but also a time to nurse the wounds of isolation and grief—all valid feelings that deserve to be celebrated on the same level as their merrier counterparts.

“Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays globally, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and generosity. An Offshore Christmas aims to provide our artists and their audience with a platform to express their views on Christmas, even if it's about sadness and loneliness. Not everyone experiences the usual ‘happy’ Christmas, and they deserve to be celebrated as well.”

‘An Offshore Christmas’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment.

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About Offshore Music 

Offshore Music is an independent record label founded by a mix of businessmen and musicians in 2016. Its aim is to guide the listeners of Filipino music toward artists with the ability to make the familiar sound fresh. Driven by initiative and imagination, Offshore Music provides an honest space of creativity, and above all, an avenue for quality music.

MQ Cosmetics Introduces Exclusive Macaroon Bundle for the Holiday Season

MQ Cosmetics, a leading beauty brand, is thrilled to announce its special holiday promotion - the Macaroon Bundle. This limited-edition bundle is exclusively available this ber month only, making it the perfect gift for makeup enthusiasts and beauty lovers.

The Macaroon Bundle features a collection of our popular macaroon-inspired shades, offering a delightful array of colors to enhance your holiday looks. Each macaroon shade is carefully crafted to provide long-lasting wear and vibrant pigmentation, ensuring a flawless and glamorous finish.

Individually, these macaroon shades are priced at 810 pesos each. However, with the Macaroon Bundle, customers can enjoy all the shades at a discounted price of only 595 pesos. This incredible offer allows our customers to save 215 pesos while enjoying the full range of our macaroon-inspired collection.

The holiday season is a time for celebration and indulgence, and the Macaroon Bundle embodies the spirit of joy and glamour. MQ Cosmetics. wanted to offer customers a special treat during this festive time, and the Macaroon Bundle is the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness and color to their makeup routine.

MQ Cosmetics aims to provide high-quality beauty products that are both affordable and luxurious. The Macaroon Bundle is a testament to this commitment, offering customers the opportunity to experience our premium shades at an exceptional value.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive offer - the Macaroon Bundle is available only this ber month. Visit our website or authorized retailers to get your hands on this limited-edition collection and elevate your holiday makeup looks.

For more information, please contact Joycenyl Reyes at 09494422025 and reach their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/mqcosmeticsph.

Unlock the Joys of Learning with REX’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) Christmas Promos!

 Running out of gift ideas? Worry no more! We’ve got you covered. For your peppy young ones, Rex Education has prepared a delightful array of surprises, especially for this holiday season.

Let every child explore and wonder. Let the fun in learning begin!

1. Little Explorers Giveaway Promo

Buy any ‘Little Explorers’ and ‘Hello Animals’ regular-priced items worth PHP 350.00 and up, and receive a pencil case for free! This awesome deal is here for a limited time only. So, stock up on your Little Explorers and Hello Animals books now! The adventure of learning awaits your little ones, and so does a free pencil case!

1. Little Explorers Color Crafts Bundle Promo

Immerse your little ones in vibrant fun with REX's Little Explorers Color Crafts Bundle! When you purchase any two Little Explorers coloring books worth at least PHP 500.00, receive a set of REX's colored pencils for free! This bundle guarantees hours of creative exploration, making it the perfect gift to unleash your child's artistry and imagination. Remember—bundles are available for ages 3+ and ages 4+. Take advantage of this opportunity and add a splash of color to your child's world this Christmas!

1. Little Explorers Creative Scribbles Bundles

Get ready for a blast of fun with REX's Creative Scribbles Bundles! Each bundle, now with a fantastic 15% discount, comes with four books designed to inspire your little artists to express themselves freely. With four different sets to choose from, these bundles are the perfect spark for their creativity. From simple scribbles to extraordinary art, watch as your child beams with a sense of accomplishment and self-expression. Time's ticking! Hurry up and snag these limited-time bundles!

1. Hello Animals Science Wonder Bundles

Embark on a thrilling adventure with REX's Hello Animals Science Wonder Bundles, each book is now at an amazing 20% off! Uncover the wonders of the animal kingdom and learn interesting facts alongside your child. These bundles are educational and quite fun to read. Keep your little explorers curious and fuel their sense of wonderment with these bundles. Buy ‘Hello Animals’ nowand let the learning adventure begin!

1. Little Explorers Learning Bundles

Give the ultimate gift of knowledge with REX's comprehensive learning bundles! With four sets and a superb deal of 20% discount each, these bundles cover a wide range of subjects—from the fundamentals of math and language arts to the wonders of science. Each bundle is thoughtfully curated to make learning a joyous and engaging experience, setting the stage for a bright future. Don't miss out on this opportunity! Let the joys of learning last a lifetime.

Always and especially this Christmas, cherish every moment with your early learners. They’re only young once, so let’s make the most of it and introduce them early to the magic, fun, and joy of learning.

For us at REX, this is how we believe we can help and be part of your incomparable tender moments and heartwarming experiences with your loved ones. Let REX help you with the gift of knowledge through our ‘Little Explorers’ and ‘Hello Animals’ books.

Visit your nearest REX Book Store branch or explore our online platforms to unwrap these Christmas bundles and promos.

• Lazada store: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/rex-book-store/
• Shopee: https://shopee.ph/rexbookstore

Let REX be your partner in gifting knowledge to every child. Happy holidays, happy giving, and happy learning!

ATEEZ RELEASES NEW STUDIO ALBUM THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL

 Their second studio album release features a total of 12 new songs, led by the title track “Crazy Form.”

PURCHASE HERE | LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE

IMAGE CREDIT: KQ Entertainment

 

Global chart-topping group, ATEEZ, have released their long-awaited, second studio album THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL. The full-length album is out now via Sony Music Korea/RCA Records – click here to listen.

This latest endeavor solidifies ATEEZ’s strong position as a global artist as they expand their discography with new sounds and genres that have captivated listeners from the first note of their instrumental preview video. After the major success of their previous EP THE WORLD EP.2 : OUTLAW, where they brought the Korean spicy flavor to the music stage with “BOUNCY (K-HOT CHILLI PEPPERS),” the group is ready to take on a new form.

THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL contains 12 tracks - featuring “Crazy Form” as the title song. The album displays the extraordinary musical abilities of the group with credits listing every member of the group. Of the 12 tracks, the four-unit songs – “MATZ” “IT’s You,” “Youth” and “Everything” bring this to the forefront.

The title track “Crazy Form” takes on a dancehall genre infused with an Afrobeat rhythm that shines a light on a new style song for ATEEZ. Exuding a unique wit and irreplaceable charm representative of the group, it presents the beginning of a new musical chapter for them that draws the perfect synergy between an addictive melody and powerful choreography.

The released preview video for the album has already garnered over 3 million views on YouTube (at the time of writing) fascinating viewers with the enthralling and mysterious scenes in the short clip.

With the wrap of their successful tour ATEEZ WORLD TOUR THE FELLOWSHIP : BREAK THE WALL, selling out shows in multiple continents including North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia, the group is set to start a new musical chapter with their upcoming release THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL.

 

LISTEN TO THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL HERE

THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL TRACK LIST

01. WE KNOW

02. Emergency

03. 미친 폼 (Crazy Form)

04. ARRIBA

05. Silver Light

06. Crescent Part.2

07. 꿈날 (Dreamy Day)

08. MATZ (HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA)

09. IT’s You (YEOSANG, SAN, WOOYOUNG)

10. Youth (YUNHO, MINGI)

11. Everything (JONGHO)

12. FIN: WILL

 

Ben&Ben explores themes of longing and loneliness on new single “Autumn”

 

Ben&Ben expresses the loneliness that comes in waves after being apart from your loved one for so long.

On their new single, “Autumn,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment, the nine-piece collective copes with the emotional complications that hit home, resulting in a song about “the distance that people often unintentionally create with their other half, because of the changes that life throws at us.”

According to the Paninidigan Kita hitmakers, the introspective track was written in Canada last year, right smack in the middle of their North American tour. The band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Paolo Benjamin, felt an aching yearning to be with his significant other, as the long distance proved to be very challenging for both of them.

“A few months later, in early 2023, brother Miguel Benjamin completed the lyrics, also adding a bridge about being in different seasons, which really completed the message of the song,” the folk-pop collective adds. “It speaks about themes of loneliness, yearning, and ultimately, hoping against hope that a new season will come.”

Marking a new chapter for the band, “Autumn” embraces a new direction that reveals subtle details with each listen. Blending rich, acoustic arrangements with lush textures and otherworldly touches, the emotional ballad is meticulously crafted to capture the yearning that comes with being in a long-distance relationship with your other half.

The award-winning band explains in a collective statement, “Autumn is a song where we showcase how we’ve evolved and matured as a band. Writing-wise, we felt that the perspective was a more realistic and mature take on the subject. Arrangement and production-wise, we discovered a lot of new ways to express sounds that achieve the emotion we were going for.”

The song is included in a three-part release that Ben&Ben hopes to share in the coming weeks. Aside from “Autumn,” the acclaimed Filipino act will also be dropping the full-band version of their new track “Courage” in the following week, as well as a special collaboration with another artist, due December 8, 2023.

 

Ben&Ben’s “Autumn” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Rex Education at the 2023 CEAP National Convention: Joins Thousands as Pilgrims of Hope on the Path to Synodality

 In an era marked by unprecedented challenges and transformations in the field of education, this year’s CEAP National Convention holds special significance. CEAP has long been at the forefront of transformative education, advocacy, solidarity, and synodality. Every year, this incomparable event provides a platform for educators, administrators, stakeholders, and partners to come together, exchange ideas, collectively address the ever-evolving needs and challenges of the educational sector, and celebrate as a community.

Rex Education also witnessed that the CEAP National Convention is also a spiritual and intellectual journey, an odyssey that reflects the member-institutions and partners’ common aspirations to inspire hope, navigate challenges, and promote quality education for all, with Catholic faith at the core. This year's convention, bearing the theme "Pilgrims of Hope: Exploring Pathways to Synodality" is a testament to CEAP’s continuing journey and support of the Church and society through the promotion of Filipino Catholic education. Rex Education is grateful to be part of the CEAP convention.

In this journey, REX, with its decades-long commitment to Philippine education steps onto the convention stage reaffirming its role as duty-bearers of education and an ally to educators and educational institutions, including Catholic schools and organizations, among others. The theme of synodality—journeying together as people of God—is intricately woven into the fabric of REX's story and its mission to nurture every child for lifelong learning—a journey of a lifetime, for every Filipino whole learner.

Rex Education Hub: Paths to Lifelong Learning

For the CEAP convention, REX brought back its Educational Hub, featuring its diverse and extensive collection of educational resources spanning early childhood education through the formative years in K–12 and to higher education and professional or adult education. Rex Education’s wide array of quality and thoughtfully developed learning materials have been designed for every learner, from early childhood to adulthood, REX is present in every stage and opportunity for the child to learn, be happy, and succeed in life.

REX’s resources also offer a comprehensive selection of solutions for teachers, parents, and learning companions, all to complement and enrich teaching and learning processes and experiences, including values that foster learner development.

Under Early Childhood Education (ECE), REX exhibited its Little Explorers brand with over 100 titles, including the Hello Animals books. With a focus on values and holistic development, they are designed to stimulate young minds, encourage creativity, and lay the foundations for lifelong learning.

REX also offers a broad range of resources for the K–12 program. For this year, REX introduced some of its latest titles for 2024. These include worktexts in Science, Math, and Language, aligned with the evolving needs of learners, educators, and educational institutions.

As learners progress to higher education and embark on their professional journey, REX continues its committed presence in their overall growth. REX also unveiled its latest educational resources at the event, encompassing various fields, including Business and Accountancy, Criminal Justice Education, Teacher Education, Hospitality and Tourism, and General Education programs. These newly introduced materials are expected to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and values required to excel in their chosen career paths.

REX's participation at the 2023 CEAP National Convention goes far beyond featuring its educational resources. It symbolizes dedication to learners of all ages. It is also a testament to Rex Education’s unwavering commitment, just as with the other CEAP delegates, to journey together, with hope, toward a brighter future for Philippine education.

REX supports DepEd's MATATAG Agenda

REX's participation at the convention is also a resounding declaration of support for DepEd's newly launched MATATAG Curriculum. The MATATAG Curriculum is expected to decongest the present K to 12 Curriculum by reducing the number of competencies and focusing more on the development of foundational skills, and in the process improve students’ learning outcomes.

"REX is in full support of the MATATAG agenda, particularly the initiative of making the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens," said Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer of Rex Education. "We believe that the implementation of the new curriculum will further enhance the quality of education in the Philippines and contribute to the holistic development of our learners."

REX's dedication to this agenda goes beyond words; it is reflected in its initiatives and actions. REX engages education duty-bearers, Edukampyons, and aims to build their capacities for respecting, protecting, and fulfilling every Filipino learner’s right to quality education. As such, REX continues to collaborate with curriculum development experts, respected authors, seasoned educators, subject area coordinators, and other subject matter specialists in the development of quality learning materials.

Overall, the 2023 CEAP National Convention remains a force and inspiration for the Catholic faithful in the educational sector and a symbol of resilience and hope for today’s generation and the future. Held on October 17–20, 2023, at the Water Front Hotel, Cebu City, CEAP 2023 successfully brought together over 3,000 delegates nationwide.

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Rex Education takes home awards at 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal, 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards

 Rex Education was recently recognized at the 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal and the 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA).

The Quezon Gawad Parangal is held annually in October as part of the local government’s celebration of the city’s founding. The 2023 awards ceremony recognized individuals and institutions who were exemplary in the fields of social work, environment and sanitation, law and justice, business and entrepreneurship, and science and technology.

Rex Education was among the 15 individuals and institutions recognized at this year’s iteration of the prestigious event. The 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal took place on October 25 at the PETA Theater Center.

The selection panel of Quezon City department heads, previous award winners, and respected professionals from various sectors conferred the award to REX for its prominent dedication to educating the masses through literature. The local government also cited REX’s pioneering work in the educational publishing industry, particularly through Rex Book Store, Inc. (RBSI).

RBSI’s contributions to education publishing include learning materials encompassing early childhood education, basic education, high school, tertiary, law, and post-collegiate materials. RBSI takes pride in its extensive network of 24 branches located across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This only further affirms REX’s mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. To be the choice learning companion of Filipino learners and to be recognized by the communities REX serves, are a joy and honor.

Four of REX’s published works were also recently recognized at the 45th CMMA. The CMMA is an annual ceremony that pays tribute to individuals and organizations that produce values-filled content through print, broadcast, and social media. The CMMA pre-announced winners virtually on October 27.

REX and Catechetical Media Network (CMN-Asia, Inc.) bagged the Best Children’s Magazine with the publication “Backpack.” Meanwhile, REX and CMN-Asia’s “Crossroads” won in the Best Youth Magazine category.

“Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin (Marketing Our Local Products)” by Allan Alejo Jr., published by REX and CMN-Asia, was recognized as Best Editorial Cartoon. “Si Nelia, Si Marta, at Si Maria” by Felix C. Alcantara, published by REX and CMN-Asia, was acknowledged as Best Comic Story.

These citations further fuel REX's drive and dedication to producing quality learning materials that can inspire spirituality and values among Filipino children. REX always endeavors to contribute to the development of the whole learner— one who is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and values-oriented.

In light of these accolades, REX remains inspired to constantly improve and strive for excellence— para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

iQor Qares Launches ‘Opening Doors to Education’ School Supply Donation

iQor Qares in the Philippines recently donated school bags and school supplies to elementary schools as part of an initiative to empower young students and create awareness about the importance of education. iQor Qares Philippines Foundation is a nonprofit charitable organization that supports iQor employees, their families, and their communities in need of financial assistance due to life-altering or catastrophic events.

The board of directors of iQor Qares Philippines Foundation and the steering committee worked together to gather donations from employees and enlisted the assistance of the senior leadership and human resources teams to pack the school bags. The administrative team delivered the school supplies, including notebooks, pencils, dictionaries, whiteboards, markers, modeling clay, rulers, and protractors, to the following schools:

• Angeles City, Pampanga – Cutcut Elementary School

• Mabalacat, Pampanga – Monicayo Elementary School

• Santa Rosa City, Laguna – Macabling Elementary School

• Dasmariñas City, Cavite – Paliparan 3 Relocation Site through the Kristong Hari Parish

“It was a wonderful experience having not only our senior leaders from the Philippines take part but also our chief operations officer and the other country leads from Trinidad, Colombia, and India all lend a hand to pack 500 school bags for distribution here,” said Kevin Murphy, vice president of operations. “Seeing the impact iQor Qares has had on so many really puts a smile on my face, and our team values what our organization is doing for employees and our community at the same time.”

Since early 2023, iQor Qares has provided financial assistance to iQor employees in the Philippines who have faced life-altering events and hardships. The organization also believes in giving back to the communities in which iQor operates, especially focusing on supporting public elementary school students and addressing the challenges many children face in accessing quality education.

“By rolling up their sleeves and actively engaging in the event, senior leadership exemplified the very essence of being an iQorian by setting a tangible and inspiring example for all employees. Their presence and participation sent a clear message that the company's values are not just words on paper but deeply ingrained in our actions,” said James Down, senior director of

operations.

“The ‘Opening Doors to Education’ project reflects our commitment to making education accessible and inspiring students to prioritize their learning. By offering school supplies, the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families who struggle to afford basic educational materials. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for students to build their confidence and self-esteem. We hope that this project will inspire more people to contribute and initiate similar projects, ultimately creating a positive impact on education in the regions where iQor operates,” said Fleurette Navarro, chief people officer at iQor and chairperson of iQor Qares Philippines Foundation.

For more information or to donate, visit iQorQares.com. iQor Qares welcomes both one-time and recurring credit card donations from individuals worldwide. Additionally, iQor employees in the United States and the Philippines have the option to enroll in payroll donations. Every contribution is sincerely appreciated and plays a meaningful role in fulfilling the iQor Qares mission.

iQor is a value-driven global business process outsourcing organization committed to creating rewarding experiences and human connections. Employees enjoy flexible work-in-office and work-at-home positions. iQor has 17 contact centers in the Philippines archipelago spread across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit https://apply.iqor.com.

CAPTION

Kevin Murphy, Vice President of Operations at iQor, shares smiles with the students of Monicayo Elementary School in Mabalacat, Pampanga, as they receive school bags and supplies from the iQor Qares Foundation.

iQor employees join iQor Qares Foundation’s “Opening Doors to Education” project school supplies drive in Pampanga, Laguna and Cavite