Pageantry is no longer just about glitz and glamor—it’s about bold self-expression, authenticity, and moments that resonate far beyond the stage. This year’s Miss Grand International swimsuit and preliminary competition saw contestants from around the world break stereotypes and inject personality into every stride.
Photo from Miss Grand International
Below we highlight performances that reminded audiences that beauty pageants are evolving—where confidence, joy, and individuality shine as bright as the crowns they seek.
MISS FRANCE
Screengrab from Miss Grand International
France’s representative, Safiétou Kabengele, stunned the audience during the swimsuit competition by unexpectedly removing her wig and handing it to a fellow contestant on stage. In that powerful moment, she not only represented her country with pride but also delivered a profound message: beauty isn’t measured by your strands of hair but by the light in your soul. Hair may fall, but confidence rises from within.
MISS THAILAND
Screengrab from Miss Grand International
Thailand’s representative, Malin Chara-anan, delivered a standout performance during the swimsuit competition as well. In a playful twist, one of her competitors sprayed mineral water on her, creating the illusion of giving herself a fresh spray tan just before she strutted confidently down the runway. The unexpected moment captivated the audience, adding a fun energy to the stage.
MISS PHILIPPINES
Screengrab from Miss Grand International
Our Philippine representative, CJ Opiaza made a strong impression during the swimsuit segment. The Filipina beauty queen radiated confidence and attitude. She began her introduction with a salute and had a striking moment with Miss Peru on stage, both in a joyful and humorous atmosphere. Opiaza’s runway walk and poses were exceptional, featuring a captivating camera gaze, a stylish hair flip, and confident turns, earning her a spot among the Top 20 Best in Swimsuit.
MISS INDONESIA
Screengrab from Miss Grand International
Indonesia’s representative, Nova Liana, dazzled in a creative gown featuring a striking heart-shaped hem, which she calls “Unconditional Love.” Her dress carries a powerful message to the world: love has the power to heal, unite, and transform. It urges us to break the cycle of hatred and fear, replacing them with compassion and understanding. Instead of raising our voices in anger, let us speak in a call for peace—and let love be the light that guides us forward.
MISS VIETNAM
Screengrab from Miss Grand International
Vietnam’s representative, Que Anh, captivates with her graceful presence and confident catwalk. She showcases the Firegown, a design inspired by flames rising from ashes. The dress features intricate curved motifs, and its fishtail silhouette accentuates her alluring figure. Midway through her performance, Que Anh stuns the audience by dramatically removing part of the gown, transforming her look right on stage.
Each contestant left the audience with a story, a spark, or a smile, proving that pageantry is not just about elegance, but also about embracing individuality and inspiring others. Are you ready to hear about the next Miss Grand International 2024? Stay tuned this Friday, October 25 and will kick off at 08:00 ET/05:00 PT.
Virginia Food, Inc. has taken a creative step to embrace Filipino family traditions by partnering with renowned Cebuano artist Pierre “Pikoy” Arcillo Famador II. This collaboration aims to raise the spirit of our culture for a holiday dining experience mixed with art.
In this latest collaboration, Virginia Food, Inc. draws inspiration from the deep love Filipinos have for the Christmas season, as well as their appreciation for art. By teaming up with the talented Pikoy, whose artwork radiates joy, Virginia Food, Inc. has transformed the packaging of its hams into a canvas that showcases the warmth and love characteristic of Filipino families.
Each ham bag design embodies the warmth and tradition of the Filipino Christmas spirit—capturing cherished moments like decorating Christmas trees, crafting colorful parols, exchanging heartfelt gifts, and, of course, sharing a delicious Noche Buena feast on Christmas Eve. Through these artistic canvases, we are reminded of how we once celebrated, and how we should continue to honor the true essence of the holiday season.
The Works of Pikoy
Meet Pierre “Pikoy” Arcillo Famador II, a talented graduate of the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at the University of the Philippines. Known simply as Pikoy, he is a Cebuano artist with a unique gift for spreading positivity and happiness through his artwork.
With his striking colors and delightful, whimsical characters, Pikoy invites us to take a trip down memory lane as his artworks celebrate the simple pleasures of life—like the joy of playing with tires, the adventure of riding a jeepney, the thrill of swinging on a playground, and even the wonders of watching insects or playing with spiders. Each art piece is a reminder of our carefree childhood days, giving us nostalgia and smiles in equal measure.
Supporting Local Artists and the Community
Virginia Food, Inc.’s collaboration with Pikoy is a big step towards supporting local artists and fostering community engagement. By featuring his artwork, they not only improve their own product but also promote the importance of Filipino artists in preserving cultural stories and narratives. This partnership shows the brand’s commitment to uplifting local talent and showcasing the richness of Filipino artistry.
How to Get Your Exclusive Artist-Designed Ham Bag
So, how can you get your hands on these exclusive bags? It’s simple! When you purchase a Virginia ham this Christmas, you’ll receive one of these beautifully designed bags as a complimentary gift; perfect for gifting or adding a joyful touch to your own holiday celebrations!
So, Sugboanons, experience the joy of Filipino traditions this Christmas with Virginia Food, Inc. and the artistry of Pierre “Pikoy” Arcillo Famador II—where every meal is a masterpiece!
“Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a dear friend, and a father.” – Cheryl Cole
Liam James Payne, born August 29, 1993, was an English songwriter and a member of the best-selling boy band One Direction. He was cherished by many, including his family, friends, and fans. Tragically, on the night of October 16, 2024, everything changed—Liam Payne, at 31 years old, died.
A Trip for a Friend Ends on a Somber Note
The last photo of Liam and Niall during Niall’s concert
What could have been a fun weekend in Argentina took a tragic turn. On October 2, 2024, Liam reunited with his bandmate, Niall Horan, during one of Niall’s concerts. They shared hugs, reminisced, and enjoyed each other’s company. However, as the night came to an end and they said their goodbyes, Niall reflected in his tribute, “I sadly didn’t know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It’s heartbreaking.”
On October 16, local authorities received a call from the CasaSur Palermo hotel requesting assistance because a guest was causing a disturbance in one of the rooms. Here’s the transcript of that call gathered and translated by the BBC:
After a loud violent scream that echoed the Buenos Aires establishment, Liam Payne was found dead. Turns out, that the One Direction member fell from his balcony.
The Autopsy
Wire photo via Reuters
The report revealed multiple hemorrhages and traces of drugs in Liam Payne’s system.
After falling from the third floor of a hotel, Payne was declared dead by the authorities. According to the National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office, he suffered multiple internal and external hemorrhages, with 25 of these injuries confirmed to be caused by the fall, as noted by the coroner. However, the primary cause of Payne’s immediate death were the head injuries he sustained, along with injuries to his abdomen, limbs, and thorax.
Now that the toxicology report has been released, more details have come to light regarding the incident, which began with substances in his system, notably what is referred to as “pink cocaine”- a cocktail of drugs containing methamphetamine, ketamine, and ecstasy. Additionally, traces of crack cocaine and benzodiazepine were also found in his system.
A Call for Help
Liam Payne was affectionately known as the “Daddy Direction” of One Direction, where he took on the role of leader. Once the top-grossing new band in the music industry, they eventually went on hiatus and disbanded. Afterward, each member sought to establish their solo careers, but it was clear that the hiatus deeply affected all of them, especially Liam.
He released several singles and songs, some of which were underrated while others gained popularity. However, in the years leading up to his death, Liam frequently opened up about his struggles with alcoholism and substance abuse. While some so-called fans turned into critics, a loyal few remained to support the fading star—until his last stardust burned up and vanished.
Tributes for Liam
Photo from Cheryl on Instagram
Fans around the world mourned Liam Payne’s death, but it was his family who felt the greatest loss, especially his 7-year-old son, Bear, who will grow up without his father. Stars and the One Direction members shared heartfelt tributes, reminiscing about their time together and expressing how shocking the news of Liam’s passing was to everyone who knew him. His legacy will live on in the memories he created and the impact he had on those who loved him.
Today, October 22, classes are canceled in various regions of the Philippines, including Cebu City as Kristine, internationally known as Trami, strengthened into a tropical storm.
Photo from Canva
Below are the list of localities with class suspensions in all levels:
Asturias
Badian
Balamban
Baljoon (Public School only)
Bantayan
Bogo City
Daanbantayan
Liloan
Madridejos
Mandaue City
Medellin
Minglanilla
Minglanilla
Moalboal
Oslob
Pilar
Pinamungajan
Poro
San Francisco
San Remigio
Santa Fe
Sibonga
Sibonga (All Public School and High School Only)
Sogod
Tabogon (Public School only)
Tabuelan
Talisay
Talisay City
WEATHER UPDATE
Photo from Canva
Kristine has strengthened into a tropical storm while moving west-northwest over the Philippine Sea., according to PAGASA. As of 11:00AM today, it’s center was 335 km east of Virac, Catanduanes. The storm is traveling at a speed of 10 km/h in the same direction. It has maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h near its center, with gusts that can reach up to 80 km/h.
The wind signals alert the public about the potential wind threats from a tropical depression. Currently, the highest possible alert for “Kristine” is Wind Signal #3, as there is a chance the storm would rapidly intensify. The wind patterns interacting with “Kristine” may lead to strong gale-force gusts in specified areas, particularly in coastal and upland locations. Central Visayas is likely to be affected.
As daytime turns dark, and the howling winds whisper in your ears with words instead of a small breeze. We’re all in this time of the year where it’s all about horrors and games monsters play. Halloween fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of horror booths and other spine-tingling attractions that promise to plunge visitors into a world of fright.
Photo from “Outside”
Whether you crave haunted houses, creepy creatures, or nightmarish scenes, these attractions promise to send shivers down your spine. With a mix of fear and fun, these experiences are sure to make your Halloween a night to remember. Buckle up for the fright of your life and see if you can survive what awaits!
Photo from Lenie Lanojan
Below we list the opening must-see Halloween events in Cebu, welcoming all brave and fearful individuals until all souls are consumed:
THE HAUNTING: PARKMALL HOUSE OF HORRORS
Loud, spine-chilling screams echo throughout Parkmall, all emanating from The Haunting. Step into a nightmarish world where 80’s-style slasher horror comes to life in terrifying detail. We won’t spoil the surprises that await, but if you’re brave enough to discover what’s behind those screams that leave survivors trembling, venture inside—if you dare!
Gather your courage and face the fear at The Haunting.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Entrance Fee – Php 50.00//head
Ticket Booth is located at the G/F near Tiger Manju
No Refunds: Assess your comfort level before purchasing
OTHER INFORMATION
Opening Dates: October 5 to November 3, 2024 (Monday to Sunday: 1pm – 9pm)
Recommended Age: 13 and above
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Parkmall” as your destination.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 01K jeepney at A. Soriano Ave., near the entrance across from the DIY building. The jeepney will lead you to its final stop; Parkall.
VILLAIN VILLE
Starting on October 26, 2024, join Ayala Central Bloc for a spooktacular experience at Villain Ville! From the thrilling Wicked Night Run to exciting surprises and endless fun, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re rocking your best villain costume or just going for the good vibes, it’s bound to be a wickedly unforgettable time!
Wicked Villain Run – Dress in your spookiest and most creative costume for a night of thrills! Simply show a single purchase receipt worth P1,500 from October 17 to 26, 2024, and get ready for a wicked night run. Head over to the Concierge, Ground Floor to register. The fun kicks off only on October 26 at 5PM, at the Corte Garden.
Photo from Ayala Central Bloc
Bands of Mischief – Show your Ayala Malls Z!ng App, follow @ayalamallscentralbloc on social media, and craft a personalized bracelet—an ideal memento for you, your friends, and even your furry pals. It’s the perfect way to celebrate those wicked connections. The fun kicks off only on October 26 at 5PM, at the Corte Garden.
Photo from Ayala Central Bloc
Villain Runway – Embrace your dark side and take over the night! Wear your most sinister costume and strut your stuff down the runway. The fun kicks off only on October 26 at 7PM, at the Corte Garden.
Photo from Ayala Central Bloc
Spooktacular DJ Party
Extend the excitement at the Night Run After-Party and recharge with pulse-pounding music. The fun kicks off only on October 26 at 8PM, at the Corte Garden.
Photo from Ayala Central Bloc
Don’t wait until it’s too late—mark your calendars now and start crafting your costumes! You won’t want to miss this spooktacular Halloween event at Ayala Central Bloc.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Wicked Villain Run: P1,500 minimum single purchase receipt, excluding bills payment, services, and supermarket purchases.
Exact Location: I. Villa Street, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City, Philippines, 6000
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Ayala Central Bloc” as your destination.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 04L jeepney and instruct the driver to drop you off at IT Park. Once you get off, take a walking distance from Salinas Drive (near TGU Tower). Just walk straight ahead, you’ll reach Ayala Central Bloc.
Lapu-Lapu City Horror Booth
Photo from Congresswoman Cindi King Chan
It is down to three options: (A) Gabi ng Lagim, (B) Gabi ng Lambing, or (C) Gabi ng Lagum? So what’s it going to be?
The Mayor of Lapu-Lapu City, Mr. Junard “Ahong” Chan, has an exciting treat in store for Halloween! After finding the best actors to play the scariest monsters for the planned horror booth, stay tuned for Gabi ng Lagim. The haunted attraction will run from October 30 to November 2, 2024, at the Lapu-Lapu City Sports Complex from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Photo from Congresswoman Cindi King Chan
The booth offers three spine-chilling themes:
1. Haunted House – Wander through eerie hallways where spirits of restless souls lurk in every corner, waiting to make their presence known.
2. Terrifying Hospital – Step into an abandoned hospital filled with twisted nurses, deranged doctors, and the unsettling remnants of patients who never left.
3. Scary Cemetery – Brave your way through a foggy graveyard where the dead refuse to rest, and shadows seem to move on their own.
Be prepared as each theme is a twisted tapestry of shadows and screams, enticing brave souls to confront their deepest fears. From haunted houses adorned with flickering lights and ghostly whispers to interactive experiences that blur the line between reality and nightmare, these eerie installations offer a thrilling escape into the grim.
Don’t miss this thrilling experience—brace yourself for a night of fear and fun!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
There are no updates for ticket prices yet, stay tuned with Mayor Ahong’s Facebook page for announcements.
Exact Location: Sports Complex, Lapu-lapu City Hall Access Rd., Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Sports Complex Lapu-lapu” as your destination.
SPACE ADVENTURE: JOURNEY TO THE WONDERS OF THE UNIVERSE
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu
You’re probably wondering, what does a space adventure have to do with Halloween? Well, let me tell you: think space isn’t scary? Think again. The sun? It’s massive, and from its point of view, Earth is just a tiny speck of dust. And the black hole? It’s so huge it could swallow our entire solar system without a second thought. We could get sucked in without even realizing it. Now that’s terrifying! So what we’re trying to do is, space is scary, scary is for Halloween, thus space is still related to Halloween.
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu
Ayala Center Cebu is hosting a traveling exhibition called Space Adventure: Journey to the Wonders of the Universe, organized by The Mind Museum. This event invites people of all ages to explore the universe’s wonders.
Photo from Ayala Center Cebu
This exhibit explores the atomic origins of life within the cosmos. Visitors can look forward to uncovering constellations, learning about the challenges of space exploration, and wandering the solar system.
Photo from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center CebuPhoto from Ayala Center Cebu
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Php 3,000 minimum single transaction at any food or non-food merchant, except pharmacy, bills payment, department stores, and supermarkets.
Php 10,000 minimum single transaction from Metro Department Store and Supermarket, Rustan’s, or The Marketplace.
Entry Pass Information
To gain entry, visitors need to present receipts:
General Merchants: Spend at least Php3,000 in a single transaction at any food or non-food merchants (but not pharmacy, bills payment, department stores, and supermarkets).
Metro Department Store & Supermarkets: Spend at least Php10,000 in a single transaction.
Pass Details
Each pass allows entry for one person and one companion, Children under 13 must be with an adult.
A total of 2,000 passes will be available throughout the event.
Receipts must be dated from October 20 to November 4, 2024.
OTHER INFORMATION
Event Run: October 21 to November 4, 2024
Call Ayala Center Cebu concierge: 888-3790 loc 3790
Exact Location: Level 1 near Oh Georg, Ayala Center Cebu, Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business PArk, Cebu City, Philippines, 6000
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Ayala Center Cebu” as your destination.
By Commute: From SM City Cebu, ride a 04L jeepney and instruct the driver to drop off at The Terrace of Ayala Center Cebu. Ask around where you can find Oh Georg. When there’s Oh Georg, there’s Space Adventure.
HADLA-HADLA SA PALM GRASS
Photo from Palm Grass Cebu Heritage Hotel Official Facebook Page
Join a thrilling Cebuano-themed Halloween Kids’ Party at Palm Grass!
Get ready for an exciting day at their “Hadla-hadla sa Palm Grass” event on October 27, 2024 at 10AM at Palm Grass The Cebu Heritage Hotel. Put on your best spooky costumes and enjoy a day filled with fun Cebuano games like:
Tusloka ang Ahos (Poke the Garlic)
Pakan-a ang Tambaloslos (Feed the Big Mouth)
Kuota ang Kaban (Guess What’s in the Box)
Pangitaa ang Duwende (Find the Gnome)
Hadlok-hadlok Costume Contest
Participants with the scariest costume will win a special prize. FREE ADMISSION for all children of Inhouse and Kapihan ni Lumaya guests.
Don’t miss out on this spooky event with a chance to win exciting prizes!
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Prices may vary.
FREE ADMISSION for all children of Inhouse and Kapihan ni Lumaya guests.
Exact Location: 68 General Junquera Street Barangay Kalubihan, Cebu City, Philippines, 6000
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin the exact location above or “Palm Grass Hotel” as your destination.
No matter which attraction you dare to explore, this Halloween promises an unforgettable adventure filled with spine-tingling moments and heart-racing thrills. So gather your bravest friends, face your fears, and make the most of this spooky season. Will you survive the night, or will the monsters follow you home? Happy Haunting!
Being out and about everyday means you’re always exposed to smoke, dust, humidity, and more that can cause harm, especially to your hair. Pair it up with constant hairstyling and, surely, it is going to be damaging.
But, switching up your hairstyle allows you to express yourself better and damaging factors are something you can’t totally control. The question now is: how can you take care of your hair from something so unavoidable?
Just like how you take vitamins to keep you going, conditioning your hair keeps it glowing and treating it keeps it from further damage. Believe it or not, it’s simple and the Cream Silk Hair Institute with the experts behind it are making it easier by sharing what to do and what to use for your hair!
For dry and frizzy hair
Dry, frizzy, and dull hair is a common problem and using hair conditioners everyday gives your hair the daily nourishment it needs to keep it healthy and smooth.
Good thing Cream Silk Vitamin Boost Conditioners have vitamins and oils that can give you 10X straighter and stronger hair! If you want to kick it up a notch, the NEW Cream Silk Triple Keratin Serum Conditioners can take your hair’s beauty to a whole new level with 30X Keratin Serum that helps address advanced hair needs.
For intense damaged hair
For intense styling damages, treatments are the way to go in repairing and renewing your hair, to be used along with conditioners. Take the Cream Silk Salon Expert Treatments for example that has Keratin and Collagen Dual Serum, bringing the hair back to its most beautiful state even with all the perming, hair coloring, heat styling, rebonding, and more.
Discover the best Cream Silk hair regimen for you by trying the NEW Cream Silk Hair Profiler on BeautyHub PRO at www.beautyhub.ph/creamsilk-hair-institute/ to give your hair the nourishment it needs while repairing every damaged strand, so you have nothing to worry about! Get that healthy, more beautiful, and lustrous hair by using both Cream Silk Vitamin Booster Conditioners and Salon Expert Treatment!
Made for the Filipina Locks
Cream Silk is a leader and expert in Filipina hair and hair care products.
In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Cream Silk Hair Institute was launched as an educational platform that helps Filipinas understand hair care, adding both hair conditioners and hair treatments to their regimen, and gain access to superior hair care products by Cream Silk.
In St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis declared the 14 new saints for the Catholic Church. The list included eleven “Martyrs of Damascus,” and three nineteenth-century founders of religious orders. All of them commended for living their lives through service in the ways of Jesus Christ.
Photo from the Catholic News Agency
These new saints lived Jesus’ way: service. They made themselves servants of their brothers and sisters, creative in doing good, steadfast in difficulties, and generous to the end.
Pope Francis
The New Saints
Here are the new canonized saints:
St. Giuseppe Allamano
The founder of Consolata Missionary Orders and an Italian diocesan priest
Consolata Missions Magazine Photo Archive
St. Marie-Léonie Paradis
A nun and the founder of an order intended for servicing priests in Montreal, Canada.
Photo from Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops
St. Elena Guerra
Hailed as the “Apostle of the Holy Spirit,” St. Elena Guerra is known for her writings and devotionals.
The Martyrs of Damascus
St. Manuel Ruiz López and his seven Franciscan companions were canonized 160 years after their deaths from the hands of Syrian prosecutors
The Siblings
St. Francis, St. Mooti, and St. Raphael Massabki are siblings who are also lay Maronite Catholics and were martyred in Syria with the seven Martyrs of Damascus.
A Beacon of Hope
The canonization of the new saints is a sign of hope in the never ending battle of spirituality and religion. They are symbols of steadfast faith even in the midst of unforgiving situations, such as during a war or more so, in the face of death.
When we learn to serve, our every gesture of attention and care, every expression of tenderness, every work of mercy becomes a reflection of God’s love. And so we continue Jesus’ work in the world
Pope Francis
The Gospel for the Mass was spoken in Greek along with the Latin translations in honor of the 11 Martyrs of Damascus, to pay respect and homage for their sacrifices during their lives.
Pilgrims from around the world, such as from the Middle East, Canada, Kenya, Spain, Italy, and Uganda traveled to Rome to pray for and witness the canonization, in which the Pope was grateful for the support.
Sugboanon Hillsong fans, this is your chance to buy discounted tickets!
For a limited time, from October 21 (10:00 AM) to October 27 (11:59 PM), SM Tickets will be holding discounted prices for the upcoming Hillsong London Live Cebu Concert this November 8, 2024 at Seaside Cebu.
A Concert for a Cause
Ticket prices for the concert have been reduced big time—from Php 560.00 for Silver seats to just Php 399.00! The same goes for the other tiers, including Gold and Platinum.
This price drop is part of the effort to support the International Care Ministries (ICM), with all proceeds going to their mission. However, if you’re aiming for those sought-after VIP seats, you’ll still need to pay the original price of Php 3,000.00, as that remains unchanged.
So, what are you waiting for, Sugboanons? Head over to accredited SM Ticketing outlets or visit the SMTickets website to book your tickets now!
It’s a psychological thriller that explores beyond being bitten by a zombie and surviving the apocalypse.
Photo from Netflix
“Outside,” an original Filipino film directed by Carlo Ledesma, was one of the most highly anticipated movies of the year. Filipinos rarely get our own zombie films, especially ones with high-quality production and a serious tone—let alone one featured on Netflix! As a result, there was a lot of excitement, even from those like me who aren’t typically into zombie and horror movies.
Photo from Netflix
The film premiered on October 17, 2024, and guess what, netizens weren’t thrilled by the thriller! On IMDB, the film received a 5.1/10 as of today, October 20, 2024, while on Netflix, it scored 67% on audience rating.
Photo from Netflix
Support Pinoy or Criticized Pinoy?
Many people took to social media to share their opinions on the film, expressing appreciation for its depth beyond just a typical zombie flick. But, the movie “Outside” received mixed reviews, with a rating split evenly—50% in favor and 50% against. So, we dug deeper into the reasons behind this divide and discovered that initial expectations were not clearly communicated to the audience.
Photo from Netflix
The trailers showed terrifying zombies roaming the Philippine province, leading many viewers to anticipate a storyline centered around a Filipino family fighting the undead. However, the true antagonists of the film turned out to be the family’s inner conflicts and secrets, rather than the zombies themselves.
This disconnect in expectations led to significant backlash, particularly from fans of “Train to Busan” and “The Walking Dead.” Many voiced their criticism, despite the film being labeled as a psychological thriller. The slow-burning plot added to the fueled discontent, as audiences had hoped for more action and thrilling zombie chases.
Once the backlash started, some fans of the film responded with their own thoughts and expressed their concern as to why us Pinoys, instead of supporting a deep storyline, ended up pulling down the ratings of an original Netflix movie. It was a film that was meant to give and show the tension between the characters affected by, not just the apocalyptic situation they were in, but also the generational trauma ensued years prior, according to one commenter. Add to that the surprising plot twists along the way, which made each character have solid development throughout the film.
Should You Watch It?
Photo from Netflix
A definite YES, Sugboanons! But, make sure to watch it with open minds and let the story take you to where it needs to. However, if you want the typical bloody fungus infected zombie fights, then maybe skip the film or better yet, still watch it and don’t focus on the zombies! You’d be amazed by how one word, “Sorry,” can change throughout the plot, and how the title actually meant beyond just what’s physically waiting for the family outside an apocalyptic world.
Only bad thing ’bout a star is they burn up. – J.Cole
Photo from Reuters
When a celebrity passes away, many of us feel a sense of sadness that seems strange because WHY would we cry for someone who doesn’t even know us, nor we’ve only ever crossed paths once? So, penny for your thoughts, is it okay to grieve for stars?
It’s All About Connection
HP Fans raised their wands up at the Wizarding World for Dame Maggie Smith who played the role of Prof. McGonagall
Celebrities often seem larger than life; they’re the type of people who we look up to, we listen to, and strive to be near with. They share their talents, stories, and even their struggles with us through movies, music, or social media. Over time, we develop a significant kind of connection to them as we laugh at their jokes, cry during their performances, and celebrate their achievements. So, in short answer, yes, THIS ONE-SIDED feeling of bonding is totally fine; but be careful, because even though they’re far from us day-to-day, the type of grief we feel may still have the same heavy gravity as losing someone we dearly love. This is when fandoms come in, as the act of grieving becomes a shared experience.
For many fans, expressing grief can be a way to find closure. Writing a tribute, sharing memories, or participating in fan gatherings can help honor the celebrity’s legacy. These actions allow us to channel our emotions into something meaningful.
Fans Gathered Around Liam Payne’s Last Place
Fans gathered around Liam Payne’s place of death
In Buenos Aires, directioners and fans of Liam Payne gathered around the hotel where the star fell. They paid tributes, lit candles, said their prayers, and above all, sang the iconic One Direction song, “Night Changes,” which is one of the saddest hits of the former boy band before they went on hiatus. Many cried and hugged their friends as they reminisced on nostalgic times when the boy band was still on top of their game. Furthermore, many were devastated especially by the possibility that they’ll finally get the reunion they’d wanted, but at the funeral of Liam.
Around the world, directioners are giving their condolences and sharing their stories about how 1D changed their lives, and how everyone was shocked about the news that came early in the evening of the 16th.
In the end, grieving for celebrities is a normal part of being human. They touch our lives in ways we may not fully understand, and it’s okay to feel sadness when they’re gone. So the next time you find yourself shedding a tear for a star, remember: you’re not alone, and it’s perfectly fine to grieve for those who’ve inspired you, even from afar.
