BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday Open Table MCC MANILA What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? OTMCC: Open Table Metropolitan Community Church (Open Table MCC) is an ecumenical and progressive Christian church with a specific outreach to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQIA+) individuals, families, and communities. As queer individuals from diverse backgrounds, we see that visibility is growing but so are the challenges. Many LGBTQIA+ Filipinos still face discrimination in housing, healthcare, and professional settings, as well as rejection from religious institutions and families that should offer care and support. For those of us connected to Open Table MCC, everyday life includes the act of reclaiming space: spiritual, communal, and personal. We’ve found belonging in a faith community where we are free to come as we are. Here, we live out our Statement of Faith: "We are people on a journey, learning to live into our spirituality, while affirming our bodies, our genders, our sexualities." In a society that often asks us to choose between faith and identity, Open Table reminds us that we don’t have to pick one over the other. Both are gifts. Both are holy. What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? OTMCC: We want Filipinos to know that being LGBTQIA+ and being a person of faith are not mutually exclusive. At Open Table MCC, we believe in God’s radically inclusive love that embraces all genders, sexualities, and identities. LGBTQIA+ people are not outsiders to faith—we are part of it. We are your siblings, co-workers, neighbors, and churchmates, who live full, complex, sacred lives. Our presence is not a problem to be fixed, but a gift to be received. We invite you to the table not just metaphorically, but spiritually and relationally. Come and be part of God’s wider work of justice, peace, and healing. ( https://www.instagram.com/opentablemcc.ph/ )

BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday Jefaye Elli RIZAL What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? JE: Being a queer person in the Philippines may seem loud and colorful, but oftentimes it feels like a battlecry. Although it is wonderful to see an enormous number of youth in this generation having gender sensitivity awareness, we are still asserting our rights, legal protections, fighting against discrimination, and microaggression. It is lovely to see cisgendered people waving at us, smiling, and laughing with us during pride events, drag shows, or every party we are in but on a daily basis, being a queer person still makes me whisper a soft, tiny, shining dream as I blow my candles every year: I want us to be celebrated and not just tolerated. What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? JE: Conservatives consider us as someone who needed "cure" for a disease we don't even have. By simple dressing up, expressing yourself as a queer person is something that they still tend to modify. When in fact, our history tells us that even our wonderful ancestors in the precolonial era, the Babaylans, spiritually, culturally, and symbolically represented the transgender and nonbinary identities of people who held high status in our society. They did not care less about the clothes they wore, they did not give a damn about labels, as they broke down gender roles and stereotypes. If there's one thing to be "cured" in this society, it's ignorance. ( https://www.instagram.com/_jefayerytale/ ) Photographer: Edgar Siervo ( Siervo and Photography )

BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday arigoggles PASIG What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? a: The timing of me discovering my queer identity, I happened to be living in Los Angeles (2015-2022), to now living in Manila. It was eye opening to feel the pressure of fitting into the heteronormative expectations in The Philippines, compared to feeling the openness and the privilege of challenging sexuality/gender roles in Los Angeles.   But what I love about the queer scene here in Manila is how unapologetic and proud the community is here, despite The Philippines being a Catholic dominated country where same-sex marriage is not acknowledged, or legal… yet. I see this pride present itself through the queer parties and events I would find myself in, DJing in or attending. What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? a: With being able to immerse in both country’s (Los Angeles, CA and Manila, PH) queer communities, it’s unfortunate to hear the same conversations and have the same observations of the lack of sapphic dominated spaces, which goes in hand with feeling tokenized as sapphics. Especially in nightlife, where many spaces cater towards gay men, and then suddenly those gay men spaces would host sapphic nights, it sometimes does come off disingenuous.  But on the flip side, it’s an exciting time to see  sapphic led sapphic parties/events starting to appear. And hopefully, these sapphic dominated parties/events continue to grow and be permanent within queer communities. https://www.instagram.com/arigoggles/ Photographer: Wilmark Jolindon  ( https://www.instagram.com/thewilmark/ )

BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday Cyrus Dan Ca ñares  MANDALUYONG What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? CC: Speaking from my personal experience I find living in Manila as queer to be well, normal. I don’t differentiate myself from the non-queer folks. I just live my life as it is. Period. No explanation needed. Unfortunately though, as much as the culture is “accepting” of queers we still have a long way to go in fighting for equality and inclusivity. So yeah, everyday life as queer in Manila is a complex balance of beauty and complexity.  What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? CC: I grew up in Manila and the queer community here is as colorful as the jeepneys and tricycles you’ll see in the street. Nothing makes me happy than seeing members of the community celebrate their most authentic selves! And a visit to any drag shows, art exhibits,  and queer-owned spaces can attest to the creativity and joyfulness of the queer Pinoy. Is it a perfect community? No. But it’s real, expressive, and always rooted in love. ( https://www.instagram.com/siriusofalltrades/ ) Photographer: Wilmark Jolindon  ( https://www.instagram.com/thewilmark/ )

BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday Sam Lim CEBU What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? SL: I move through the world like I design — sometimes loud, sometimes soft, but always with intention. As a queer Filipino living in Cebu, I’ve learned to read every space like a pattern: where to cut, where to fold, where to let myself flow. Some days I shrink to fit in. Other days I take up space like a sparkly ball gown. I navigate by creating — turning queerness into cloth, silence into silhouette. It’s not always easy, but every look I make is a reminder: I exist, I resist, and I am not alone. Living as a queer designer in Cebu means learning how to exist in a world that doesn’t always know what to do with you. There’s pressure to stay quiet, to act “normal,” to make yourself smaller — but I’ve found ways to express who I am through design, styling, and the clothes I create. My queerness shows up in my work, especially in my graduate collection. It wasn’t just about fashion — it was a way for me to explore my identity, question norms, and show softness as something powerful. Every piece I make is a part of that story. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned how to move with intention. I take up space in my own way, even if it’s quiet. What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? SL: Queer people in Cebu are not just trying to be seen — we’re already creating, building, and showing up. Even with limited resources, we’re styling shoots, throwing ballroom events, and designing pieces that reflect who we are. We do the work even when no one’s clapping. We turn scraps into beauty. We show up with heart, whether it’s in pageants, small gigs, or studio corners. There’s so much talent and truth here — and we’re not waiting for anyone to validate it. We’ve always known how to make space for ourselves. That’s what makes us powerful. https://www.instagram.com/samlimofficial/

BLNC Facets : Pride in Everyday Carlos Mangcupang by Vince Lim DAVAO What is everyday life like as a queer person on your side of the country? VL : Thankfully, living as a queer person in Davao feels a little lighter these days. We’re lucky to be in a city where there’s an avenue for us to grow into whoever we want to be. We have what we call safe spaces to run to when life feels heavy. Sometimes, it’s a trusted friend. At other times, it’s a quiet spot in the city, a creative group, or even an industry that welcomes us. Of course, the realities are still mixed, especially in the southeastern part of the country. Some people genuinely welcome and celebrate us. Others tolerate our presence. And yes, there are still those who reject us outright and refuse to see our worth in society. But despite all that, I can confidently say that we can strut the streets in our glittery makeup, over-the-top outfits, statement handbags, and sip our overpriced coffee without fear of being harassed. Ang mga bayot sa Davao dili magpadaog-daog. We don’t let ourselves get trampled on. We speak up when needed, whether it’s for ourselves or our sisters in the community. To sum it up, we don’t have to clear our throats every day to clap back at ignorance and homophobia. That’s a kind of peace we’ve carved out for ourselves, slowly but surely What would you like Filipinos to know about the LGBTQIA+ community where you are? VL : LOUD. VIBRANT. PRESENT. When I received the invite to be part of this project, the first thing that came to mind was: “Who could capture what queer culture in Davao feels like?” And without hesitation, I slid into the DMs of my dear friend Carlos. Carlos is a fellow creative in the food and beverage industry. He’s known for pouring bold, colorful narratives into each of his craft cocktails. If you're ever in Davao, don’t miss a visit to Taste of Home . Every sip tells a story, and behind the brand is someone who proudly carries both his queerness, creativity, and love to his family. In a city often recognized for politics and dynasties, the queer and creative scene in Davao is alive. We may not always be at the forefront, but you’ll hear us, see us, and feel our presence. For this project, Carlos wore a piece from Francisca Batiancila’s graduate collection “BOWA,” a design inspired by the beauty of voluptuous bodies and the celebration of one’s natural form, exactly the kind of fashion statement that reflects our pride and authenticity. Yes, like in many places, we still have a long road. But we walk it hand in hand with the emerging wave of young queer models, designers, artists, and the brave souls who came before us and continue to fight for space and acceptance. Palaban ang mga bayot diri sa Davao.  We’re not going anywhere, and we’ll keep showing up loud, vibrant, and full of love. Muse: Carlos Mangcupang ( https://www.instagram.com/carlosmangcupang/ ) Creative Director/Photographer: VSION - Vince Lim ( https://www.instagram.com/vjwlim/ ) Hair and Makeup Artist: Danja Buencamino ( https://www.instagram.com/danjbuencamino/ ) Production Assistant: Ira Langahid ( https://www.instagram.com/iradominic_/ ) Outfit by Francisca Batiancila Accessories from Joolz ( https://www.instagram.com/____joolz/ )

Believe in life and love once more. Inspired by true stories, “I Remember You” follows the journey of Gani (JC Santos), a bank employee assigned to Boracay to save a failing branch of their microfinance-oriented bank. Boracay brings back memories - years ago, Gani was set to be married to Debbie (Valeen Montenegro), but the two would go their separate ways when Gani's ambition resulted to Debbie's loneliness. Being in Boracay brings back old hurt, but Gani meets Isay (Sarah Panguiton), a self-made single mother, who eventually works her way into Gani's heart. As their relationship blossoms, Debbie unexpectedly shows up on the island. Is this Gani's second chance at a failed romance, or is this a new beginning? Bente Productions is proud to present its very first film - I Remember You,  Director Boboy Yonzon’s debut feature. Yonzon, primarily known as a visual artist and author, ventures into the world of cinema for the very first time to tell a story about second chances amidst the backdrop of an ever-changing world. With the film, he yearns to help viewers feel seen in their struggles not just in love, but the most basic of needs, which is why he partnered with Bente Productions, a member of CARD MRI - a world class leader in microfinance that champions the everyday Filipino. In the film, Gani helps struggling small business owners in Boracay to keep afloat - something that is at the heart of Yonzon and Bente’s advocacy. “First of all, Bente Productions, Inc. was formed specifically to tell the stories of the disadvantaged sectors. We believe that, through entertainment, we could inform. The first offering of the company hews closely to real events. In a plenary brainstorming, what stood out was what really happened in Boracay - with the bank and the people it serves. The challenge was how to make it into a feature film.” , Yonzon says. The clear answer was centering the film on love - love for and from your family, your community, and maybe that special someone - all people that inspire you to keep going through all the struggle. To do this, Yonzon would call the help of JC Santos and Valeen Montenegro to tell the story of I Remember You . “We wanted for the leading role, somebody whose celebrity does not steal away the authenticity of the chcaracter; Parang low key but amiable and down-to-earth. We looked for somebody who is amidst a great party, but feeling sad. As for the leading lady, we wanted somebody who instantly looked aristocratic, lovely. The kind of person who some people usually avoid because she looks snobbish, but is kalog pala.” , Yonzon shares. JC boasts an impressive filmography starring in critically-acclaimed films such as Family Matters (2022), On Vodka, Beer, and Regrets (2020), Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2019), Babae at Baril (2019), and 100 Tula Para Kay Stella (2017). In I Remember You , he leads the film with is already trademark earnestness and sincerity in every role he plays. On the role of Gani, JC says - “I am always drawn to heroic characters. Characters who you can trust to save the day for those who are in need. I enjoy creating circumstances kung bakit sila ganun passionate sa ginagawa nila.” Valeen, on the other hand, is a well-loved comedic actress known for her roles in shows such as Love. Die. Repeat (2024), Bubble Gang (where she rose to fame for her role in the Balitang Ina! sketch), To Have And To Hold (2021), Beautiful Justice (2019), and My Korean Jagiya (2017). While known for her comedy, Valeen flexes her dramatic acting chops in I Remember You . “What drew me to Debby is how real she is. She’s strong but soft, confident but still searching. She’s not trying to prove anything—she just wants the truth, and she’s ready to face it no matter how painful. I think that kind of emotional maturity and vulnerability makes her really special.” , Valeen says. In a world that forces us to adapt and change to the harshest of conditions at a moment’s notice, Director Boboy Yonzon invites viewers to help each other through these struggles, and if necessary, give each other second chances - “ It is important to deal with struggles in a world that appear to be more complicated each year. We need to understand them and, if it is within your power, help ease the struggles. Foolish at it may seem, we hold hands with the viewers In recognizing these. ” Valeen adds - “ It’s a film that deserves to be felt. You’ll witness the beauty of Boracay, the stillness, and the emotional journey of the characters. It’s not just about love—it’s about healing, timing, second chances, and even the real-life struggles we don’t always talk about, like financial decisions and sacrifices.” JC hopes that the film can inspire people to help each other and their community when times get rough - “ Aside from it being a story of love and second chances and the journey of a man’s passion to help the community.” I Remember You  will be showing in cinemas nationwide this July 9, 2025. I Remember You  is a story for those that dare to hope and dare to dream even in the face of an extreme and ever-changing world. If you’ve lost faith in love and life, come witness a story about giving yourself a second chance to live once more.

In a night that celebrated the lasting legacy of Filipino artistry, The Philippine Terno Gala 2025 gathered six of the country’s most acclaimed designers under one remarkable roof. With Diagold as the main jewelry partner and major sponsor, the evening shimmered with exquisite brilliance that matched the grandeur of the designs. Moving fluidly from tradition to reinvention, the runway became a living canvas of cultural pride, brought to life through the visions of Edwin Ao, Protacio, Jun Escario, Joey Samson, Jojie Lloren, and Cary Santiago. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales This year’s gala highlighted the terno, the iconic symbol of Filipino grace, reimagined through each designer’s unique perspective. Edwin Ao opened the evening with crisp cuts and unexpected touches, showcasing his talent for structure and subtle defiance of the ordinary. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Protacio followed with his signature blend of classic and daring, presenting barong and terno pieces that balanced nostalgia with a modern edge. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Jun Escario offered a breath of softness through flowing silhouettes in muted neutrals, his modern romanticism bringing an understated yet fresh approach to timeless reinvention. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Joey Samson pushed the boundaries further, merging the terno with sharp tuxedo details. His designs balanced strength and elegance, masculinity and femininity, bending convention with quiet confidence. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Jojie Lloren’s architectural ternos paid tribute to form and restraint, with dramatic folds and sculptural drapes turning fabric into wearable architecture. His work proved that discipline can be just as captivating as extravagance. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Cary Santiago closed the show with theatrical ternos in his signature black, grey, and off-white palette. Each piece, adorned with winged birds in delicate flight, embodied his vision of classic drama transformed into art. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales More than a fashion presentation, The Philippine Terno Gala 2025, made even more dazzling through Diagold’s exquisite jewelry, stood as a testament to how heritage lives on when artists boldly reimagine it. As the final bows were taken, the message was clear: the terno is not a relic but a living emblem of Filipino identity, forever evolving and forever magnificent. Photo by Mark Philip S. Dales: https://www.facebook.com/mdales

Paris, June 27, 2025 – In a quiet yet commanding moment at the Hôtel des Invalides, Jonathan Anderson unveiled his inaugural Dior menswear collection—a dialogue between raw edge and classical elegance. Born from the tension between impulsive rule-breaking and couture refinement, this outing heralds not only a fresh vision for Dior Men, but also the beginning of an unprecedented era as Anderson assumes artistic control over men’s, women’s, and haute couture at the house . A Gallery of Stillness & Tension The set resembled an aristocratic gallery: parquet floors, velvet-hued walls, and two small Chardin still-life paintings, a nod to Anderson’s philosophy of “modest yet beautiful” The subtle staging framed the collection’s ethos—where each tilt of a collar or fold of fabric drew attention not to spectacle, but to the silent strength behind considered design. Collars & Contrasts A recurring motif: collars pressed and buttoned on one side with meticulous couture precision, the other released, sprung upward in a gesture of casual defiance.Trousers shifted between languid, pajama-soft fabrics and sharply structured silhouettes, the hems often cuffed high. A standout moment was the trio of waistcoat, crisp shirt, and slouchy jeans—a striking synthesis of Savile Row nobility and streetwise ease. Volume & Playful Subversion Across sixty looks, Anderson toyed with golden ratios of balance and imbalance: oversized trenches draped over slim-cut trousers, sculpted jackets hanging above floodlit wide-legs. Accessories played their own game—tie knots worn backwards, ties looped nonchalantly—and even the neon-dyed Victorian faille awoke ancestral tailoring to pop-inflected surprise. Art + Pop Crossover In the run-up to the show, Anderson issued teasers: Warhol prints of Lee Radziwill and Jean-Michel Basquiat stamped with Dior insignia, and a teaser featuring Kylian Mbappé—signaling that art, sport, and culture would all stake their claim in his Dior vision. Crafting Raw Elegance Anderson’s devotion to the story woven through each thread shone through. As noted by his earlier Loewe-era creeds, garments must “remember the hand”—crafted so that imperfection becomes poetic tension. Ultra-cropped waistcoats threaded with embroidery, ceramic-fastened coats with deliberate cracks—every detail reinforced an identity rooted in tactility. A New Chapter for Dior This debut is more than a mere fashion show—it’s the opening page of a unified Dior universe. Anderson’s voice—felt in neon dialect, in off-kilter volumes, in artistic subversion—marks a turning point for a house founded on restrained grandeur. It sets an era where duality is not compromise, but power. The Verdict Jonathan Anderson’s Dior Men S/S 2026 is an elegant paradox. Softness and structure. Classicism and irreverence. Couture precision and street-ready fluidity. His signature rough-imperfection eloquently converges with Dior’s legacy—a balanced collision, truly, not compromise. As Anderson steps into his historic role—becoming the first since Christian Dior to oversee all lines—this collection confirms his unique aptitude to commune with Dior’s past while reshaping its future. The fashion world, it seems, is listening—and leaning in.

"Wrapped Saints" symbolizes the silenced and marginalized beings whose voices are stifled by society. These figures, swathed and confined, embody the untold stories and muted cries of individuals pushed to the corners, their existence barely acknowledged. Through this artistic representation, the concept challenges the viewer to recognize that if these beings were heard, they could reshape societal structures, proving that their voices, though wrapped and restrained, hold the power to matter deeply. Sequined hood EAST OF EDEN @exploreeastofeden Wedding gown and veil BORDELO @bordelo_club Half pleated blazer ROBERT ANDREW HIYAS @robertandrewhiyas Sculptural  dress UNO ALMOGELA @uno.almogela Eyewear YASHA ROSALES @yasharosales_ Full look NICKY RICE @nickyrice_official Dress SAINTE MARION @sainte_marion Dress FRANCIS LIBIRAN @francislibiran Coat GENES & HAILS @genesandhails | Crochet dress MNTCLV @montecalvo_creations Headpiece and puffer coat RAE EDUAVE @raeunivrse | Crochet dress MNTCLV @montecalvo_creations Full look ROBERT ANDREW HIYAS @robertandrewhiyas | Wire sculpture MANG DADADA @mang.dadada Dress PATRICIA NAOMI CRUZ @patricianaomi_studio Full look YASHA ROSALES @yasharosales_ Sleeved coat and embellished collar ROBERT ANDREW HIYAS @robertandrewhiyas Lace dress PATRICIA NAOMI CRUZ @patricianaomi_studio Ensemble, stylist’s own Dress PATRICIA NAOMI CRUZ @patricianaomi_studio Full look FRANCIS LIBIRAN @francislibiran Dress GENES & HAILS @genesandhails | Jacket BORDELO @bordelo_club Full look EAST OF EDEN @exploreeastofeden Team Credits Production & Creative Direction: Bimpoman  / @bimpoman Photography: Wilmark Jolindon  / @thewilmark Styling: Ruzzian Escaros  / @ruzzianesc Bolo Pascual of Gee Jocson Studio assisted by  Shantel Beramo   @bolo_pascual @geejocson @shantelberamo Makeup: Bea Arreola @bearreola Dom Ocampo  / @dom.ocampo Paige Señeres  / @pgsnrs Iya Sanchez  / @byiyamua Nicolette Esmilla  / @nixki.18  Hair: Reese Cy  / @taureese_ Backie  / @iambackie Nails: Dorothy Zata  / @dthyzta Marianne  / @ marianne.com _ Jennifer Riko  / @fruztrated_arki  Production Assistant: Kurt Villagracia  / @ksnzv Models: Andie  / @andied_z Cassandra  / @itsacass @cray_o Jamila  / @j.mlsn Jesiah  / @jesiahporte.__  Lauren  / @laurensanz_ @priyasatine Saint  / @d.saintyves @sossiertomi Trina  / @trinaticss Vanessa  / @vanessanav__ Yuki  / @og.yuki

Rob Deniel’s music lives in the spaces between genre and emotion—equal parts rock, bedroom blues, indie-pop, and retro daydream.  His breakout single "Ulap"  didn’t just climb the charts; it quietly rewrote the rules for what OPM could sound like, racking up millions of streams and earning him a devoted following. Tracks like "Gabi," "Baby I Tried,"  and "Ang Rosas"  further revealed his range, while newer releases such as "RomCom," "Miss Miss,"  and "Arrowmance"  confirm what fans already know: Rob is no one-hit wonder—he’s a storyteller in constant evolution. Fresh from a photo shoot session ahead of Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert  this June 20 at the New Frontier Theater, we caught a different side of Rob—quiet but present, reflective but grounded. Off-camera, he opened up about the songwriting that shaped him, the vision guiding his next chapter, and the life lessons he’s collected along the way. Let’s start with your songwriting—your lyrics often feel incredibly personal. When you're writing a song, where do you usually pull from first: your memories, emotions, or imagination? A: It is a mixture of my imaginations and past experiences. For me blending all of them in writing my songs helped me expand this world inside my head. It generates creativity for me. Can you tell us the story behind one of your favorite songs you've written—what was happening in your life at the time? A: Sinta is one of my favorites, this song is also a fan favorite. It is a genuine song that talks about patiently waiting for the right person at the right time and accepting someone wholeheartedly without any hesitation. Your music has this nostalgic, almost cinematic vibe that sets it apart. Who or what have been the biggest influences in shaping that signature sound? A: Listening to my musical heroes definitely helped me create my own sound such as the Apo Hiking Society, Eheads, Itchyworms and Rico Blanco. But actually watching a lot of films and TV shows is a huge influence to me that it helped me a lot in terms of crafting this cinemtic romcom movie soundtrack vibe which I really like. What does “success” in music look like to you now, and has that definition changed since you started? A: At this point of my career, having to express my genuine self and touching other people’s lives through my music is the success for me. Yes as an artist it is definitely an amazing feeling to let myself express everything I want to express. But to inspire and touch other people’s lives is a different kind of fulfillment. It inspires me to create more. Looking back on your journey so far, what has been one of the most affirming moments that made you think, “This is exactly where I’m meant to be”? A: Performing at the big stages such as the Araneta Coliseum, New Frontier and other big festivals I performed on. Each time I perform at those big stages the more I realize that I am meant to be a performer and an entertainer. I really love how I turn in to this different version of myself that is more confident and extroverted than the offstage version of myself. You’re performing in 'Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert’ soon. How does it feel to be part of a production that blends music and narrative in such a unique way? A: It feels cool to perform in a very diverse crowd that not only appreciate the series but also appreciate OPM music. I’m also excited to introduce myself more to a wider audience that would help introduce other songs rather than the well known ones. What kind of energy or message are you hoping people will take home from your live performance on June 20? A:  Rock N Roll energy. I want them to enjoy the music as much as they want. I also want them to feel inspired to love more and be the person they want themselves to be. Let’s get real—when the spotlight’s off and the crowd is gone, what’s something people might not know about the version of Rob Deniel who’s just… Rob? A: I’m just a chill, fun and clingy guy. I can get a bit quiet sometimes but I love listening to other people’s stories. I’m also a sucker for films and sports specifically basketball. What’s one life lesson that your music career has taught you—something you carry with you, not just as an artist, but as a person? A: There’s a right timing in everything. There’s no shortcut to success. Having the right amount of patience and eager to enjoy the process is a step to where you want to be. It is also important to make the people around you feel loved and cared about. Lastly, for anyone who's loved your music from afar but hasn’t seen you live yet—why should they come to Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert  at New Frontier Theater on June 20? What can they expect that they’ve never experienced before? A: It will be worth every penny. If they are a fan of our music and the series, they will surely enjoy the concert. It is going to be a music festival like experience. Different artists, different songs, different feels. Rob Deniel isn’t just making music—he’s building an emotional archive that feels like it belongs to all of us. As he steps into the spotlight at Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert , it’s clear that he’s not just performing—he’s sharing. And if his words have taught us anything, it’s that there’s always more to the story than what we hear in three minutes and a chorus. Catch Rob live this June 20 at New Frontier Theater and experience the songs, the stories, and the soul—up close and in full color. Produced by BLNC team Photography by Stephen Capuchino @stephencapuchino Film by Ian Francisco @ianfranciscoph Camera Operator: Adrian Alegre @unnecessaryfiles AMIEL SOL Grooming: Janell Capuchino @janellcapuchino Hair: Kurt Andrei @its.krrtt Styling: Dave Arden @daveardenstyleph ROB DENIEL: Grooming: Posh Torres @posh.torres Styling: Rodel Briñas @rubrinas shot at @zoomburst Special Thanks: Viva Records @viva_records, Vicor Music @vivor_music, Ivory Music @ivorymusicph, Botejyu @botejyuphilippines

Known for weaving gentle melancholy and deep introspection into his music, Amiel has slowly carved a place in the hearts of listeners who crave honesty. A Filipino indie singer-songwriter known for his mid-tempo alternative pop and OPM sound, Amiel first gained widespread attention with “Sa Bawat Sandali,”  a chart-topping hit that landed on Spotify Philippines’ radar and never quite left. Signed under Ivory Music (Viva Records), his catalog reflects a quietly growing discography that speaks to everyday heartbreaks, hope, and homegrown longing. With songs like “Ikaw Lang Patutunguhan”  breaking into the Viral 50 charts, Amiel’s rise has been steady—but never manufactured. His music feels like late-night thoughts and early-morning clarity, and his presence in “Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert”  this June 20 at the New Frontier Theater is proof that the quietest voices sometimes carry the heaviest truths. In this exclusive conversation with BLNC Magazine , Amiel opens up about the music behind the series, the pressure and poetry of creating, and the personal truths that continue to shape him as an artist. Your music feels deeply personal and emotionally layered—what usually triggers a song idea for you? Is it a memory, a moment, a person? A: The usual trigger for me to write a song is love itself- the way I experience it and how I give it really resonates with how I write my songs. My next song to be released soon is a specific track where i've felt an emotional breakthrough. What has your creative process looked like lately? Has it changed since you first started writing music? A: It has not changed. I still write for the love of music. I have no specific process- what's important to me is that I always have my notes app or voice recorder app just so I am ready for when ideas arrive. This is because in my case, ideas are always fleeting, so I have to make sure that I grab them when they come. Were there moments you almost gave up on this path? What helped you hold on to the dream? A: No, there were no moments when I almost gave up. My dream is to be able to write songs and perform on gigs. As long as I get to do that, I'm already living my dream! Fame and fortune was never part of it- it's just a bonus. So the times when there were only a few people listening to my music, I was still pursuing my dream! Your lyrics often speak to love, loss, and healing. Is there a personal story or experience that keeps finding its way into your songs, even unintentionally? A: There are always personal experiences attributed to my songs. But I also get a lot of inspirations from the experiences of the people around me and the media i consume As an artist navigating the industry, what have been the biggest lessons or truths you've learned about yourself—both in success and in struggle? A:  The most important things are passion, consistency, and showing up. Everything else will follow when you are true to these three things. How do you balance vulnerability in your music with protecting parts of your personal life? Or do you feel like the two are inseparable? A: For me, it's all about the words I use in the songs. I want them to be personal to me, while at the same time be personal also for the listener. I pour my heart out to every song, and I don't really worry about revealing things about my life Looking at the music you’ve created, what do you want your audience to feel or take away from it—especially those who feel unseen or unheard? A: Love is real! It is something within reach! There are people for us who will love us unconditionally. Your upcoming concert at the New Frontier Theater is a huge milestone. What kind of experience are you hoping to create for your fans that night? Follow-up: Can you give us a hint of what surprises might be in store? We want them to be able to FEEL the music! We will have numbers where we will sing together! Finally, for those who’ve followed you from the start and even those discovering you now—what would you like to say to them ahead of June 20? A: I hope you all get to enjoy the concert and continue to support OPM! As the lights rise on “Ang Mutya ng Section E: OST Live in Concert” , Amiel Sol isn’t just performing songs—he’s revisiting memories, both his and ours. His music invites you to feel without filter, to remember without shame, and to believe in soft beginnings again. Catch Amiel Sol live on June 20, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater , alongside Rob Deniel, Earl Agustin, GAT, and the cast of Ang Mutya ng Section E. Come for the concert, stay for the stories. Produced by BLNC team Photography by Stephen Capuchino @stephencapuchino Film by Ian Francisco @ianfranciscoph Camera Operator: Adrian Alegre @unnecessaryfiles AMIEL SOL Grooming: Janell Capuchino @janellcapuchino Hair: Kurt Andrei @its.krrtt Styling: Dave Arden @daveardenstyleph ROB DENIEL: Grooming: Posh Torres @posh.torres Styling: Rodel Briñas @rubrinas shot at @zoomburst Special Thanks: Viva Records @viva_records, Vicor Music @vivor_music, Ivory Music @ivorymusicph, Botejyu @botejyuphilippines