Francis Nnoruka Emerges as UP's Defensive Anchor in Crucial Win Over Ateneo

The University of the Philippines continues its tradition of producing strong frontcourt players, as freshman Francis Nnoruka stepped up prominently during UP’s recent victory over Ateneo. With former UP stalwarts Francis Lopez and Quentin Millora-Brown present at the game, Nnoruka honored the legacy of his predecessors with an impressive stat line of 17 points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks. Speaking about the presence of Lopez and Millora-Brown, Nnoruka remarked, \"That’s a big thing, you know. I was excited that they were out there watching. We just had to like put the same effort they put when they were playing, and try to fill out the space that they left in the team.\" The young center added, \"[I’m] really happy that they watched the game, and I’m really happy that we got the dub at the end of the game.\" UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde also praised Nnoruka’s contribution, particularly highlighting his resilience and increased intensity in the second half. Facing a 16-point deficit, Nnoruka’s leadership on the floor helped fuel the Fighting Maroons’ comeback. \"I expected Francis to be able to do that. What’s significant is how he gathered himself toward the second half, because in the first half his energy wasn’t really there. But then he accepted the challenge and raised his intensity. For me, I’m proud of him in the second half,\" Monteverde emphasized. With the Fighting Maroons now assured of a twice-to-beat advantage heading into the playoffs, Nnoruka remains focused on maintaining consistent effort and fulfilling his role to help bring another UAAP championship to UP. \"I’ll tell you the same mindset coming into the season: consistency, try to stay consistent and try to play with effort. Try to play my role and accept my role, you know, and do what I can do to help the team win. That’s really what it is,\" he concluded. The promising performances from Nnoruka signal a bright future for the Fighting Maroons as they aim to reclaim the UAAP crown.

Miguel Tanfelix Faints During Filming of Horror Movie Scene

Actor Miguel Tanfelix recently shared a distressing experience during the production of "KMJS' Gabi ng Lagim The Movie," where he fainted amid the shooting of a demanding scene. In an interview with Nelson Canlas aired on "24 Oras," Tanfelix explained that the scene was filmed inside a ship’s basement set that had poor airflow and was filled with smoke to create a suspenseful atmosphere. "There wasn’t much air circulation on our set, and we had smoke filling the area. During that scene, I had to act hysterically — yelling while lying on the floor — which caused me to breathe in a lot of smoke," he recounted. Realizing that he was about to lose consciousness, Tanfelix immediately alerted the director to stop filming. "I told the director, \"Wait, I think I’m going to faint.\" That was the last thing I remember before the director and medical staff surrounded me. I drank water while they checked on me," he recalled. Medical personnel monitored his blood pressure and confirmed that he was physically fine afterward. Reflecting on the incident, Tanfelix described it as a frightening experience, especially since it was his first time feeling such disorientation. "It was scary because the world seemed to spin, and I couldn’t understand what was happening to me," he said. "KMJS' Gabi ng Lagim The Movie" stars Tanfelix alongside Jillian Ward, Sanya Lopez, Elijah Canlas, and others. The film is composed of three distinct horror stories inspired by true events and directed by Yam Laranas, Dodo Dayao, and King Marc Baco. It is produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs and is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on November 26.

Will Ashley and Andrea Torres Lead New Drama Series "Babae sa Bintana"

Sparkle has announced their upcoming vertical drama series titled "Babae sa Bintana," which stars Will Ashley and Andrea Torres in leading roles. The teaser poster released on Monday features a blood-stained curtain partially revealing Will Ashley's face, with Andrea's image subtly embedded on the fabric, symbolizing the complex relationship between their characters.\n\nAccording to Sparkle, the series explores a haunting dynamic, describing the female lead as "the dream he can\'t stop watching" and "the nightmare he can\'t escape." Alongside Ashley and Torres, the cast includes notable actors Olive May, Jan Marini, and Karenina Haniel.\n\nWill Ashley has maintained a busy schedule following his success as the second placer in the recent "Pinoy Big Brother" season alongside Ralph De Leon. He has multiple projects lined up, including two films for the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival: "Love You So Bad" and "Bar Boys: After School," as well as another film titled "Poon." Additionally, Ashley will appear in the series "Secrets of Hotel 88," featuring several other former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemates.\n\nAndrea Torres, meanwhile, has recently been seen in "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre" portraying the character Ayeshka. She also took on a leading role in the GMA Afternoon Prime series "Akusada."\n

Iñigo Jose Reprimanded for Using Code Names on Pinoy Big Brother

During a recent episode of "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0," Iñigo Jose was admonished by Kuya for using code names to refer to other housemates. On Sunday’s broadcast, Iñigo was heard referring to himself as "Raphael," calling Sofia Pablo "1st Princess," and Lella Ford "2nd Princess" while recounting a story to his housemates. Similarly, Joaquin Arce utilized code names such as "Trey" for Ashley Sarmiento, "Bryan" for Iñigo, "Sunny" for Lella, and "Charlotte" for Princess Aliyah. After discovering this breach, Kuya summoned Iñigo to the confession room to address the issue of using code names and other forms of coded communication, which are against house regulations. Iñigo explained his actions saying, \"I couldn’t help but want to convey my message to the other person, so I wrapped the truth to express or share my genuine feelings.\" Kuya reminded Iñigo that such behavior constitutes a violation of the rules, particularly as it compromises the house’s principle of honesty. Additionally, Iñigo was reminded that speaking under the blanket was also prohibited. \"Part of being true to yourself is admitting or expressing your real emotions,\" Kuya emphasized. Following the conversation, Iñigo approached Joaquin to clarify his intentions and apologize for any resulting misunderstandings, which Joaquin accepted graciously. "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0" continues to air weeknights at 9:40 PM, Saturdays at 6:15 PM, and Sundays at 10:05 PM on GMA.

"Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0" Reveals New Group Formations

In a recent episode of "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0," the 16 housemates reorganized into four newly formed groups, each comprising two Kapamilya and two Kapuso members. The groups were established following a leadership challenge hosted by Kuya, which involved a stick catching game where participants tossed and caught sticks on the back of their hands. Housemates were ranked based on the number of sticks caught and the speed of completion.\n\nThe top four performers—Princess Aliyah, Fred Moser, Rave Victoria, and Anton Vinzon—earned the role of group leaders. These leaders then took turns selecting their team members, resulting in the following group lineup:\n\n**Big Back Dreamers**\n- Leader: Princess Aliyah\n- Caprice Cayetano\n- Joaquin Arce\n- Krystal Mejes\n\n**Interlinked Minds**\n- Leader: Fred Moser\n- Iñigo Jose\n- Heath Jornales\n- Lee Victor\n\n**Palabanghels**\n- Leader: Rave Victoria\n- John Clifford\n- Lella Ford\n- Sofia Pablo\n\n**Astig Divas**\n- Leader: Anton Vinzon\n- Miguel Vergara\n- Ashley Sarmiento\n- Carmelle Collado\n\n"Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0" continues to air on GMA, with episodes scheduled on weeknights at 9:40 PM, Saturdays at 6:15 PM, and Sundays at 10:05 PM.

Miley Cyrus Announces Engagement to Musician Maxx Morando After Four Years Together

Pop superstar Miley Cyrus has officially announced her engagement to fellow musician Maxx Morando after four years of dating. The couple's relationship came into the spotlight following their attendance at the global premiere of "Avatar: Fire and Ash," where Cyrus was spotted wearing what appeared to be an engagement ring on her left hand. Cyrus later affirmed the engagement during an interview, expressing her surprise and delight at entering this new chapter at age 33. She reflected on the evolution of her approach to relationships, noting, \"The detail that I can share is that for us, our privacy and keeping it small has been something that I’ve been astounded that I’ve actually been able to have and having more choice.\" She further discussed how her perspective on sharing personal matters has shifted with maturity, stating, \"I think it’s also being older, being more protective of what I’m open to sharing.\" Supporting the announcement, Morando’s father shared celebratory photographs of Cyrus alongside his son, featuring a close-up of the engagement ring. He accompanied the post with congratulatory messages and emojis, underscoring the joyous occasion. The couple, consisting of Cyrus, 33, known globally for her musical career and former Disney Channel fame, and Maxx Morando, 27, a drummer, writer, and producer for the band Liily, reportedly began dating in 2021. Cyrus revealed in a 2023 British Vogue interview that their first meeting was a blind date, humorously noting, \"Well, it was blind for me and not really for him. I thought, ‘The worst that can happen is I leave.’\" Their relationship was publicly visible at various events, including Gucci’s ‘Love Parade’ fashion show in 2021 and Cyrus’s New Year’s Eve Party that same year. Cyrus was previously married to actor Liam Hemsworth from December 2018 to August 2019. Their relationship was characterized by multiple reconciliations before ultimately parting ways, with the divorce finalized in January 2020. Since then, Cyrus has flourished both personally and professionally, releasing chart-topping hits such as the Grammy-winning song "Flowers," which resonates as a powerful post-breakup anthem. The engagement ring is reportedly designed by renowned jewelry designer Jacquie Aiche. Further specifics about the couple’s plans have yet to be disclosed, as they embrace this exciting new phase together.

Bjorn Morta Crowned Champion of TiktoClock's Tanghalan ng Kampeon 2025

Bjorn Morta has emerged as the grand champion of TiktoClock's Tanghalan ng Kampeon 2025, delivering an outstanding rendition of Michael Jackson's "Rock With You." The singer, hailing from Quezon City, expressed surprise at his victory during an interview aired on Thursday. "I'm usually the one getting scolded for being late and losing focus, but I give my best during practice," Morta stated, reflecting on his journey to the top. Morta surpassed five other finalists — Baron Angeles, Kimberly Baluzo, Nicole Shigematsu, Julius Cawaling, and Shane Luzentales — to claim the title. His prize included a cash award of P500,000 and a home appliance package valued at P75,000, presented by GMA Entertainment Group officials Cheryl Ching-Sy and Darling De Jesus-Bodegon. Looking ahead, Morta revealed plans for his music career: "Following this win, I will release my debut single titled 'Hiling,' followed by two additional singles, 'Lilim' and 'Hinahanap Kita.' I am currently preparing to produce and record them." Morta's victory marks a significant milestone as he transitions from a promising contestant to a rising artist in the music scene. Congratulations to the new champion!

Filipino Young Artists Honored at 58th Shell National Students Art Competition

The 58th Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) culminated in a prestigious awards ceremony held at the Ayala Museum in Makati, celebrating fifteen talented young Filipino artists selected from over 2,200 nationwide entries. This year's theme, ALAB, invited participants to channel their passion, purpose, and creativity, resulting in compelling expressions of hope, identity, and cultural reflection. Jorell Legaspi, Senior Director for Arts & Culture at the Ayala Foundation, expressed pride in supporting the competition's mission to nurture future artistic talent, highlighting how these young creators continue to shape the nation's cultural fabric. The judges, composed of renowned Filipino artists and cultural leaders, assessed submissions based on originality, technical skill, and their resonance with the ALAB theme. The judges recognized pieces that conveyed deeply personal narratives as well as broader social concerns, reflecting the vibrancy and challenges of contemporary Philippine society. UP College of Fine Arts Dean Abdulmari "Toym" Imao Jr. remarked, "ALAB transcends mere passion; it represents purpose—art that bears witness and actively contributes to cultural development." **Watercolor Category** - First place: "Odyssey of the Scrap Mariner" by Jonnas Almazar (Bataan Peninsula State University), which celebrates a child's boundless imagination. - Second place: "Two-Big" by Irish Fernandez (Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College – Main Campus), symbolizing hope and future aspirations. - Third place: "Kinsesas" by Keth Byonnsey Estilo (EARIST), depicting a father-welder whose sparks reflect dreams for his daughters. **Digital Fine Arts Category** - First place: "Sagwan Math-tatag!" by Adam Martin De Leon (UE Caloocan), addressing the nation's challenges with math and the pursuit to uplift learners. - Second place: "This Flame Remembers Me" by Sofia Frances De Guzman (Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna), a tribute to resilience and rediscovery of purpose. - Third place: "Moving Stories" by Amos Ulang (UP Diliman), inspired by everyday commutes and creative inspiration. **Photography Category** - First place: "Alab: A Burning Vision of Hope" by Jerry Balanay (Northwestern Mindanao State College), portraying creativity emerging from darkness. - Second place: "Hangga't May Liwanag" by Jason Mendoza (Sorsogon State University), capturing community warmth in a busy barbershop. - Third place: "The Flame Within" by Shainne Maica Ayap (Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas), featuring a young reader illuminated by inspiration. **Sculpture Category** - First place: "Pinagtagping Piraso" by Ivan Joysen Del Rosario (Rizal Technological University), a sculpture symbolizing a grandmother battling Alzheimer's piecing together fading memories. - Second place: "0.02g" by Jusun Joshua Estoce (UST), highlighting the significance of a grain of rice and the struggles of Filipino farmers. - Third place: "Paglayag Tilupad" by Gian Paolo Marchadesch (UP Diliman), symbolizing fragile yet determined Filipino dreams through a paper boat. **Oil/Acrylic Category** - First place: "Usok na Nagiging Buhay" by Ruth Cenas (UP Mindanao), depicting candle smoke transforming into a future artist's aspirations. - Second place: "Raniag ni Maskbayan (The Light of Futurity)" by Don Ace Rabbon (University of Northern Philippines), reflecting children guided toward becoming bearers of light. - Third place: "The Flame Within" by Vilia Crestene Gelaga (Cebu Technological University – Argao Campus), portraying youthful creativity and purpose. For over 70 years, the Shell NSAC has fostered the artistic potential of Filipino students, serving as a platform that empowers young creators to imagine boldly and contribute meaningfully to the nation's cultural heritage. Shell Vice President for Corporate Relations Serge Bernal underscored the importance of these artists, stating, "Every young artist who paints, sculpts, designs, and creates strengthens the country's cultural identity and lights the way for generations to come." Updates on exhibits, featured finalists, and upcoming events can be accessed through Shell Pilipinas Corporation's official website and social media outlets.

Oscars to Stream Exclusively on YouTube Starting in 2029

LOS ANGELES, California — Beginning in 2029, the Oscars will be available solely on YouTube, marking a significant shift from the event's traditional broadcast on ABC. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed on Wednesday that the new multi-year agreement with the Google-owned platform will make it the exclusive global home for the prestigious film awards and related year-round programming. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming." The Oscars, which annually honor outstanding achievements in cinema and attract Hollywood's elite, typically draw an audience of approximately 20 million viewers in the United States, with millions more tuning in worldwide. ABC's contract to broadcast the ceremony is set to expire in 2028, coinciding with the 100th edition of the Awards. The Disney-owned network will continue airing the event until then. Transitioning to an exclusive streaming platform reflects a broader industry evolution amid changing viewing habits, particularly among younger audiences, and the increasing prominence of digital media in Hollywood. The most recent Oscars broadcast attracted nearly 19.7 million viewers, aided by its simultaneous live streaming on Hulu — also owned by Disney — which helped deliver the ceremony's highest ratings in five years despite technical issues affecting some viewers during the final moments. While the pandemic caused viewership to plummet to as low as 10.4 million, the Oscars once regularly captivated over 40 million viewers a decade ago. This new deal with YouTube signals an innovative approach to audience engagement for one of the entertainment industry's marquee events.

Novak Djokovic Returns to Melbourne with 24 Grand Slams, Poised for More

Novak Djokovic has arrived in Melbourne already holding a remarkable 24 Grand Slam singles titles, a record he once viewed as temporary but now stands as a testament to his legacy. Approaching 38, Djokovic’s hunger for a 25th major remains, though it no longer drives him with the urgency it once did. While his competitive fire remains undiminished, age has instilled in him a deeper understanding of his place within the sport's history. Rather than chasing trophies relentlessly, Djokovic now opts to compete with a deliberate and nuanced strategy, balancing ambition with longevity. The Australian Open continues to serve as Djokovic's preferred battleground, where his ten titles demonstrate his enduring dominance at Rod Laver Arena. This year, his preparation has been more cautious and measured, reflecting his awareness that managing physical demands is key to prolonging his career. He candidly discusses the importance of body management, focusing on selected tournaments and matches to maintain his competitive edge without overextending himself. There is no dramatic proclamation accompanying his campaign—only a clear recognition of his current boundaries. Meanwhile, the tennis landscape is shifting with the rise of young stars such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who have established themselves as major contenders through their combination of speed, power, and determination. Djokovic openly acknowledges their supremacy, referring to them as the new standards in the sport rather than rivals or threats. This candid acceptance highlights Djokovic's maturity and readiness to face new challenges without defensiveness. Djokovic's evolution is marked by adaptability. No longer fixated on absolute dominance, he now embraces opportunities as they come. The Australian Open draw places him in Sinner's half, setting up a potential semifinal clash, while Alcaraz awaits on the opposite side, striving to complete a career Grand Slam. This configuration symbolizes the dynamic tension between past and present in men's tennis. At this stage of his career, Djokovic is enhancing his legacy incrementally. He refuses to fade into irrelevance and competes on his own terms, aware that any triumph must be earned against formidable opposition. His approach exemplifies a champion who respects the evolving competitive environment while remaining a compelling figure in the sport. "It's about choosing the right moments," Djokovic has implied in recent interviews, underscoring his strategic mindset. His ongoing quest in Melbourne reflects not only a pursuit of titles but also a reflection on the enduring impact of his remarkable career.