Elio lands in cinemas: Join his journey with Glordon across the Universe—and straight into our hearts

“Elio,” Disney and Pixar’s latest original film, is now showing in Philippine cinemas, taking audiences to an emotional, intergalactic adventure about friendship and discovering who you truly are.

At the heart of the story is Elio, an 11-year-old boy who feels he doesn’t fit in. After losing his parents at a young age, he turns his gaze toward the stars, longing for meaning, belonging, and connection. When a cosmic twist of fate lands him in the Communiverse, an interplanetary society of aliens, Elio unexpectedly becomes Earth’s ambassador.

But Elio’s greatest discovery isn’t galactic fame—it’s Glordon, a warm-hearted alien whose presence is as big as his heart. Together, they form an out-of-this-world best friendship that helps Elio heal, grow, and understand what it truly means to belong.

“Elio’s parents passed away when he was younger,” shares producer Mary Alice Drumm. “He’s lonely. He sees this magnificence in space—the promise of life—and he puts all his energy into that. He really believes that’s where he’ll find true connection.”

Director Adrian Molina adds “Glordon is what Elio really needs. It’s not membership in this glittery, awesome space club—it’s an actual friend. And Elio will learn a lot about himself through this new friendship.”

Co-directed by Oscar® winner Domee Shi, Elio hits an emotional chord for audiences of all ages. “It’s through opening himself up to Glordon—an alien—that Elio is able to begin healing his loneliness,” says Shi. “It’s so important right now because kids and adults are feeling lonelier than ever. My hope is that audiences feel inspired to look for and make connections with the people around them and with this planet, and the universe in some way.”

With dazzling animation, laugh-out-loud moments, and a meaningful emotional core, “Elio” is the perfect movie for families and friends to enjoy together, reminding us that connection is the most powerful force in the universe.

Just the way Elio and Glordon find a best friend in each other, Filipino audiences are finding "Elio" to be a touching and exciting adventure best seen on the big screen. Now showing in cinemas nationwide, “Elio” is a cosmic story of belonging, bravery, and the magic of being truly seen, and it’s an experience best shared with your best friend by your side. Book your tickets now for Disney and Pixar’s “Elio”: https://www.disney.ph/movies/elio

Blast off into an intergalactic adventure with Disney and Pixar's "Elio"— in cinemas this June 18!

This June 18, prepare yourself for “Elio,” a cosmic misadventure featuring an unexpected best friendship between an 11-year-old space fanatic who can’t fit in and a goofy and soft-hearted son of a violent alien warlord who wants to carve his own path. In Disney and Pixar’s newest feature film “Elio,” the two discover the value of friendship and embrace their true selves as they meet aliens and challenges of intergalactic proportions.

In this new original story from Disney and Pixar, “Elio,” is taking viewers beyond Earth and into the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide. After being mistakenly taken as Earth’s leader, Elio discovers who and what he is really meant to be while forming new bonds with eccentric life forms and navigating crisis after crisis.

Voiced by Filipino-American Yonas Kibreab, Elio Solis is just like any other curious kid who thinks that the only way out of his misery is getting out of this planet, literally. “He’s an unusual kid who’s obsessed with getting abducted by aliens,” says director Domee Shi. “Elio feels like there’s nothing for him on Earth—he dreams of going to another world where he’s accepted for who he is.” Meanwhile, Elio’s guardian Aunt Olga is a Major in the Air Force who's always dreamed of becoming an astronaut. Voiced by Zoe Saldaña, Aunt Olga wants nothing more from Elio than to stop looking to the stars and start living his life with her.

A look behind the Communiverse

The film was deeply rooted in research, with the production team consulting American astronomer Dr. Jill Tarter who is best known for her work in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). “She taught us to think about space in a more expansive way that in turn made us feel more connected here,” says producer Mary Alice Drumm. Production designer Harley Jessup’s vision was aligned with this approach, saying, “we spent a year designing a colorful cast of aliens with a carefully calibrated palette. We knew we’d have multiple alien Ambassadors on screen at the same time, and their colors had to work together in harmony—like the Communiverse itself!”

From the studio that brought you “Inside Out 2,” “Elio” is directed by Domee Shi, writer and director of Academy Award®-winning short film “Bao,” Madeline Sharafian, storyboard artist on the Academy Award®-winning film “Coco,” and Adrian Molina, the co-director and writer on Academy Award®-winning film “Coco.”

The film also features the voices of Remy Edgerly as Glordon, Brad Garrett as Lord Grigon, Jameela Jamil as Ambassador Questa, and Shirley Henderson as OOOOO.

Disney and Pixar’s all-new original feature film “Elio” will release in Philippine cinemas this June 18. Get ready to blast off into an out of this world adventure and book your tickets now: https://www.disney.ph/movies/elio.

Healing Through the Storm: My Liver Surgery Journey

Dear Life, 

I don't know your plans for me, but thank you for watching over me through the years. 

Over a decade ago, I was diagnosed with polycystic liver disease — small cysts and supposedly harmless. At the time, I was told there was nothing to worry about, just to monitor them once a year. So I went on with life, carrying the quiet hope that things would stay that way. 

But as the years passed, the cysts grew. I experienced discomfort, and eventually, even simple breathing became a challenge. Still, there were no real answers, only repeated ultrasounds and a wait-and-see approach.

In 2023, I decided it was time to look for better answers. That decision led me to another specialist in 2024, who listened, investigated, and offered a clearer path. I underwent a guided cyst drainage in June and hoped that would bring lasting relief. But just four (4) months later, the fluid came back, and I found myself needing another procedure. It became clear that we needed to take a more permanent step.

By early 2025, I was referred to a liver surgeon who discussed a procedure called Marsupialization of the liver cysts, which could help stop the cysts from refilling and relieve the pressure they were causing. It wasn’t an easy decision, but with guidance from my doctors and unwavering support from my family, I said agreed.

On April 16, 2025, I underwent the operation. The larger cysts that had been affecting my health were finally removed. It was a tough experience, but one I faced with faith and hope.

Now I’m home, recovering slowly but surely. Some days are harder than others—physically, emotionally, most especially, FINANCIALLY. This journey has tested me in ways I never expected. But through it all, I’ve held on to faith. I believe better days are coming.

To anyone who might be facing a health challenge of their own: please take heart. You are stronger than you think, even when you feel fragile. There is hope, even in the hardest moments.

I’d like to share something I wrote shortly after my surgery—words that still echo what I feel: 

“Dear Life, I don't know your plans for me, but thank you for watching over me through the years. After months of preparation, I underwent surgery to remove cysts caused by polycystic liver disease, which had been affecting both my body and mind. With the guidance of my doctors and support from family, we chose this path. I am now home, healing, and praying for better days. I will keep fighting, but ultimately, I entrust my life to our Maker who knows what's best for me…”

Thank you for reading a piece of my journey.

Nationwide Craze of HONOR X9c 5G Seen as Big Crowds Flock Over First Day Sale

Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just dropped its newest viral smartphone, the HONOR X9c 5G nationwide. Starting January 25, successful pre-orders can now claim their HONOR X9c 5G at any HONOR Experience Stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7c_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7c_PR).

Alongside the much-awaited availability of HONOR X9c 5G nationwide, HONOR also opens its newest Experience Stores in SM City Sucat, SM City Cagayan De Oro Downtown, and SM City Tuguegarao.

SM CDO Downtown Premier

"We are truly overwhelmed with the support of HONOR fans all over the Philippines. This is our biggest turnout yet and this inspires us even more to serve them better. We are very far from over and we will only keep doing what’s best for our loyal customers," shared Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. 

Malupiton at HONOR Experience Store SM City Sucat! 

HONOR Star and TikTok sensation graced the grand opening of SM City Sucat together with HONOR Philippines National Sales Head Blake Garcia, Go-to-Market Director Steven Yan, Owner of Power Premium Ms. Gina Poblete, and SM Sucat Tenant Relations Manager Joanna Kristine de Villa. 

Coming in three exciting colors; Jade Cyan, Titanium Purple, and Titanium Black, HONOR X9c 5G is now officially available for only Php 16,999 in-store and online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9c_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9c_PR). 

For more affordable payment options, the HONOR X9c 5G is also available through installments via TikTok Paylater with the same freebies until January 24, 2025. 

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/

Golden Era

I just celebrated my birthday last Sunday and was truly grateful and happy with the outcome. Although I wish I could've invited more, it was only limited to my family members and some friends closer to my age. I always thought that people in their 50's were way too old but now that I have reached this age, I do not feel that way at all, lol. Instead of thinking the inevitable, I was grateful instead because I have reached this far and still looking forward to celebrate more birthdays. Anyway♡♡s, here's the cake I asked my baker (also a friend) to make.

I found the design on the internet, send it to her and she incorporated it with her own style and the result was great! Of course, the color of the cake is gold because you know why... 😉 The flavor was mocha, then she added whipped cream I guess. I am not a baker but all I know was that this cake tasted so good! I was so glad I found some baker friends who can make my cake even on a short notice. Yeah, I was undecided at first to have a party or not, or just to celebrate with my family. Until three days before my birthday when I finalized everything. Glad the result was flawless. Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to celebrate my special day with special people ♡

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) Announces Change of Company Name to Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc. (CCEAP)

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) has changed the company’s legal name from “Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc.” to “Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc.” (CCEAP).

 

Following the announcement on 23 February 2024 on the completed acquisition of CCEAP by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Plc (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV), the company has obtained approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission for the change of its company name.

The unveiling of the new company name was held at Coca-Cola’s Canlubang Plant. From left to right: CCEAP President and CEO, Gareth McGeown; Aboitiz Group of Companies President and CEO, Sabin Aboitiz; Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Vice President and General Manager for Australia, Pacific and South East Asia, Peter West; and CCEAP Supply Chain Vice President Frank Garcia.

“Our new name signifies an exciting new phase in our journey as we reaffirm our commitment to serving our customers, supporting our people and communities, and driving long-term growth for the country. In the 113 years that Coca-Cola has called the Philippines home, we look forward to a hundred more years of refreshing our consumers and making a difference through our Great People, Great Beverages, Great Execution, and Great Partners — Done Sustainably,” says Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCEAP.

New Year Reflections

Hello 2025!

Hello January!

Hello Birth month!

As the new year begins, my mind is filled with countless thoughts, but I choose to focus on positive things and entrust my worries to God. This month marks a significant milestone in my life as I celebrate my golden year of existence in this world. I hope to celebrate it surrounded by family and friends who truly matter to me. My goal is to focus on things that bring me happiness, contribute to my growth as a person, and help me remain resilient. 

I have many prayers for this year. First and foremost, I pray for my health. I hope to feel better and receive the proper treatment for the liver cysts that have troubled me for years, especially in recent months. Second, I pray for the safety and well-being of my family, particularly my youngest child, who is often misunderstood and made fun of because she is on the spectrum. It pains me deeply, but I continue to trust in God’s protection and guidance. 

Third, I pray for financial blessings for our family. I lift up my husband’s work, praying that he finds the strength and grace to navigate the challenges he faces. I also pray for opportunities for myself to find a job, whether online or on-site, even at this stage in my life. Lastly, I pray for others, asking that their heartfelt prayers be answered. Above all, I remain grateful to the Lord for the blessings He has already given and for making so much possible.

Happy 1st of January everyone!

Back Where it Began: Big Bad Wolf Book Completes 2024 Tour with Return to Cagayan de Oro

Big Bad Wolf Books comes full circle as the world’s biggest book sale returns to Cagayan de Oro to wrap up the year with one last amazing book sale for the year. Big Bad Wolf Books’ grand epilogue is set to take place at the 5th floor of SM CDO Downtown beginning December 6 to 16, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

After several book extravaganzas all over the Philippines, Big Bad Wolf Books circles back to where the year’s excitement started. This is a special moment as it presents the Kagay-anons an excellent opportunity to reflect on their reading journey, reminiscing their first book sale experience and seeing how far they’ve come as readers. Big Bad Wolf Books’ return is more than just a book sale event. It’s a celebration of a year filled with awesome adventures and epic stories.

Being the first stop of the tour, Cagayan de Oro raised the bar high for Big Bad Wolf Books’ 2024 journey. As the year comes to a close, Big Bad Wolf Books promises a perfect finale by giving Kagay-anons the ultimate book lover’s paradise. 

Present at the opening day, Big Bad Wolf Books Project Director Ley Almeda expressed her excitement for the final book sale of the year. “We’re absolutely thrilled to begin and end the year with an awesome event here in Cagayan de Oro!” She shared, “When we first came here last February, we were welcomed with so much enthusiasm. It’s truly remarkable to see that not even a year after, the book sale has attracted another great crowd.” 

Big Bad Wolf Books’ Regional Head Bernard Lee was also at the event to welcome the Kagay-anon crowd. He remarked, “We’re ecstatic to see the people of Cagayan de Oro so passionate for books.” Commenting on Big Bad Wolf Books’ 1M New Reader Mission, he said, “WIth the overwhelming support we’re receiving, there’s no doubt that we’re closing the year with an incredible number of people falling in love with reading.” 

The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale offers over 2 million books at unbelievably affordable prices. From the latest releases to classic bestsellers, titles from every genre imaginable are yours to grab at the book sale. Plus, with prices up to 95% off and going as low as P20, it’s a great time to update your collection of reads and also cross off those last-minute gift shopping lists without straining your wallet. 

To further lighten up the load on your year-end book shopping, Metrobank is also back with its exclusive promo. Credit cardholders can enjoy a 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000. With such a fantastic deal, attendees can fill their shelves with literary treasures. 

Completing the quest to 1M New Readers, Big Bad Wolf Books continues to invite people to come discover reads that will inspire a love for reading at the final book sale of 2024. Staying true to its mission to improve literacy in the Philippines, Big Bad Wolf Books brings the Red Readerhood Program along to Cagayan de Oro. Through this initiative, Big Bad Wolf Books aims to share the gift of reading to communities which have limited access to quality reading materials. By checking out books for donation at designated counters at the book sale, attendees can be a part of this meaningful initiative. Donated books will be handed over to DSWD, which will then disseminate them to children, schools, and other communities in underprivileged areas to give them the opportunity to discover the transformative power of reading. 

Kagay-anons, don’t miss the chance to end the year with wonderful reads, amazing deals, and unbeatable discounts. Get your “happy ever after” with Big Bad Wolf Books and head over now to the book sale. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media pages to stay updated! 

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

🐺   🐺   🐺

About Big Bad Wolf Books The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone. 

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them. 

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

Yuletide Season 2024

Did you start decorating your Christmas tree already? Do you have a theme every year?

It has always been my tradition to put up my Christmas tree on the eve of November 30 so that by December 1st, it feels very Christmas-y at home. My kids are quite familiar with my routine and I'm glad my youngest child is there to assist me assemble the tree and even insisted on putting all the decorations. With that, I am grateful coz it lessens my workload. Her favorite part is putting the Christmas star on top of the tree as the finale, lol.

Below is a picture of me in front of a Christmas tree that is obviously not mine 😁

I always love SM's giant Christmas tree and their theme this year is Wonderland. This was taken 2 weeks after my medical procedure and I was just glad to have visited this place. 

Happy Holidays Everyone!🎄

 

Big Bad Wolf Books Brings 1M New Reader Mission to Cagayan de Oro for Its Grand Finale

Calling all Kagayanons! Big Bad Wolf Books is getting ready to make a big splash at the White Water Rafting Capital of the Philippines! Ending the year with a bang, the Big Bad Wolf Unite on a Mission to 1M New Reader campaign heads over to Cagayan de Oro. Big Bad Wolf Books is set to light up the 5th floor of SM CDO Downtown, from December 6 to 16, at 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

After kicking off this year’s tour with its first-ever event in Cagayan de Oro last February, Big Bad Wolf Books is thrilled to go full circle to hold its final book sale of the year for the last hurrah of its 1M New Reader Mission. The mission was first launched during the first Manila stop at Parqal, Aseana City. Now, it’s the Kagayanons’ turn to join in on the reading fun!

Big Bad Wolf Books has been visiting cities across the country, bringing exciting book sales to boost this meaningful initiative. With Cagayan de Oro as its final stop for 2024, Big Bad Wolf Books hopes to inspire even more people to discover a love for reading and experience the transformative power of books.

In pursuit of its mission to onboard 1M new readers, Big Bad Wolf Books also seeks to extend its reach far beyond the book sale. As part of its commitment to improving literacy in the country, Big Bad Wolf Books opens its Red Readerhood counters for donations. Attendees can purchase books from the book sale to donate to DSWD. This partnership and the collective effort of book sale attendees have allowed Big Bad Wolf Books to deliver reading materials to children, schools, and areas that have limited access to quality books. Through this initiative, Big Bad Wolf Books is not only inspiring new readers but also nurturing the next generation of thinkers, learners, and leaders.

The holidays will be in full swing soon, and Big Bad Wolf Books is making sure that no fun or festivity is spared. Going full throttle, Big Bad Wolf Books is bringing unbelievable deals, unbeatable discounts, and an amazing collection of books so that no Kagayanon will leave empty handed. From heart-racing mysteries to wonder-filled children’s stories and soul-soothing reads, the book sale is a treasure trove of great reads. Even more good news, this extensive range of books are available for up to 95% off with prices going as low as P20. With Big Bad Wolf Books, there’s a perfect book for every age, interest, and budget. 

Just in time for the season’s festivities, Metrobank is returning with Big Bad Wolf Books with its exclusive offer of 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000. This special offer gives book lovers and holiday shoppers the perfect opportunity to bag even more great finds at the book sale.

Big Bad Wolf Books began its 2024 chapter with an awesome book sale in Cagayan de Oro, and as the year comes to a close, it returns to finish strong with an unforgettable book sale. Jaw-dropping deals, an ocean of books, and an extra merry time awaits, so mark your calendars for Big Bad Wolf Books’ anticipated return to Cagayan de Oro. Follow Big Bad Wolf Books’ social media pages for the latest updates!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram) 

About Big Bad Wolf Books 

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.