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Download Tanglaw, the First Filipino Devotional App in Audio and Text Format!
Walk in God’s love and light with Tanglaw App—thefirst Filipino devotional mobile application in audio and text format. You may download the app for FREE!
Tanglaw is a daily devotional for iOS and Androiddevices, produced by CBN Asia and voiced by the hosts of The 700 Club Asia and friends.
Filled with powerful Scriptures, this devotional app is designed to draw you closer to the heart of God, shed light on your questions and musings, and bring daily nuggets of encouragement to readers and listeners each day.
Download the Tanglaw app and experience God’s Word and light—right at your fingertips! You can also stream it on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and Amazon Music.
Let your family and friends experience God’s encouragement, too! For more information, visit Tanglaw’s website, or send an email to info@tanglaw.org.
Source: CBN Asia
Glow as you are with the TECNO Spark 10 selfie smartphone
The best all-rounder smartphone that meets Gen Z's self-expression needs is coming to the Philippines
MANILA, MARCH 30, 2023 – Innovative global premier mobile phone brand TECNO Mobile is bringing to the Philippines the TECNO Spark 10 series, the all-rounder, high-performance smartphone designed for GenZ’s self-expression needs – perfect night time selfies, smooth gaming, and immersive video entertainment experience.
A trendsetting technology brand with operations in over 70 global markets, TECNO Mobile will make available the TECNO Spark 10 Series in the Philippines starting March 31. The smartphones will be priced competitively at less than PhP10,000, making it affordable to the youth and closing the gap between what they both want and need.
The TECNO Spark 10 series highlight TECNO's commitment to bring stylishly designed innovative and quality smartphones to progressive individuals who stop at nothing in pursuing their passions.
With the #TECNOSpark10Series smartphone, Gen Zs #GlowAsYouAre in every new beginning.
SPARK 10 Pro: A glow-up for selfies and performance
SPARK 10 Pro, the superior model of the brand-new SPARK Series is distinguished by its young and trendy design, advanced selfie capability, and strong performance in its target section.
SPARK 10 Pro features a 32MP ultra-clear glowing selfie front camera with dual flash for capturing amazing selfies in any light, as well as a 50MP rear camera. It has an adjustable three-level soft light feature for capturing the best selfies.
Besides perfect selfies, SPARK 10 Pro’s powerful MediaTek Helio G88 gaming processor creates an amazing experience for gamers and a super smooth user experience for daily use, while its unique hard-wearing starry glass back panel creates a glossy finish that is comfortable in the hand.
With these features, SPARK 10 Pro is perfect for trendsetters looking to express their vibrant, youthful energy.
The TECNO Spark 10 Pro, which features a RAM expandable up to 16GB and ROM of 256GB is priced at Php 7,499 only . Also available is Spark 10 Pro with 128GB ROM for a discounted price Php 6,899 until first sale period only. Get yours now at the TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee, TECNO Mobile PH Flagship Store in Lazada, TECNO Concept Experience Kiosks and TECNO Partner Retail Stores nationwide.
For more information, please visit TECNO Mobile at www.tecno-mobile.com
-ENDS-
About TECNO Mobile
TECNO is a premium smartphone and AIoT devices brand. With “StopAt Nothing” as its brand essence, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best contemporary technologies for progressive individuals across global emerging markets, giving them elegantly designed intelligent products that inspire consumers to uncover a world of possibilities.
TECNO understands the needs of consumers from different markets and provides them with localized innovations and design breakthroughs demonstrated through their mastery of serving consumers who are “young at heart” and never stops pursuing excellence. TECNO’s portfolio spans across smartphones, tablets, smart wearables and AIoT devices made for consumers in over 70 emerging markets world-wide.
For more information, please visit www.tecno-mobile.com.
Source: TECNO Philippines
ADB Signs Loan for First Cross-Border Wind Power Project in Asia, First Plant in Lao PDR and Largest in Southeast Asia
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 March 2023) —The Asian Development Bank (ADB), through its Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program (TSCFP), has initiated a series of discussions with government agencies in several of its developing member countries to help them align their regulatory frameworks with international laws that enable paperless trade.
In close collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the Digital Standard Initiative (DSI), and the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), ADB is advocating for the adoption and alignment of national regulations with UNCITRAL’s Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR). MLETR creates a legal framework for national laws to enable the use and recognition of electronic transferable records, both domestically and across borders.
“Laws recognizing electronic trade documents are crucial to digitalize global trade and realize tremendous benefits for economies in terms of growth and jobs,” said ADB Private Sector Operations Department Director General Suzanne Gaboury. “We are convinced that the widespread adoption of MLETR, or comparable legislation, holds the promise of increased efficiency, security, and transparency of global trade and supply chains. Digitalization of trade is a key priority for ADB. We are working hard with our developing member countries to create more resilient, green, and inclusive trade and supply chains that are good for business, the environment, and economies.”
Replacing physical documents for trade, such as bills of lading, with electronic versions would allow more companies in developing Asia—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—to access global trade and supply chains. It will also make it easier to monitor activities in those networks to ensure adherence to environmental and social standards.
This year, as part of accelerating digital trade under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Integrated Trade Agenda 2030, ADB is providing technical assistance on MLETR to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Georgia. Working closely with the PRC’s Ministry of Commerce and with the Georgia Revenue Service under the Ministry of Finance, the initiative will raise public and private stakeholder awareness of MLETR, and its benefits to trade, as well as facilitate national-level discussions on the potential adoption of MLETR and enabling reforms to digitalize trade.
“This initiative is extremely welcome and provides a model of best practice for other multilateral development banks. Time and again, I hear the same story from businesses. The number one obstacle to delivering a cheaper, faster, simpler trade system is legal barriers. It’s absolutely essential these barriers to digitalizing trade documents are removed and legal systems are aligned to MLETR,” said Legal Reform Advisory Board (LRAB) and ICC DSI Co-Chair Chris Southworth. “This will enable trade information to flow in digital form and all the unnecessary paper, bureaucracy, and inefficiency to be removed. Removing legal barriers will provide a trading environment fit for the 21st century, enabling technology solutions to scale, reduce barriers to finance, and crucially allow more small companies to participate at a lower cost.”
ADB, the ICC, and the Government of Singapore have formed LRAB as part of the DSI to help harmonize legislative frameworks. ADB is joined in this global initiative by partner multilateral institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Bankers Association for Finance and Trade, the Commonwealth, Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the International Trade and Forfaiting Association, UNCITRAL, and the ASEAN Economy Community.
Backed by ADB's AAA credit rating and working with more than 250 partner banks, TSCFP enables trade and supply chains with loans and guarantees that underpin economic growth and create jobs to improve people’s lives. TSCFP initiatives help to make global trade and supply chains green, resilient, inclusive, transparent, and socially responsible.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
Source: ADB; photo by ADB
Bluer Than Blue: An Ode to Unacceptable Goodbyes
Bluer Than Blue: Prose and Poetry by Jessa Erandio and Lorena Gaveria is a breath of fresh air in a sea of poetry books. First of all, the unassuming volume contains bits of prose which explains to the reader how the authors’ heartbreaks began, ended, and is still happening. The poems were well written and direct. Best of all, it says what the reader needs to know in its blurb: “...if it is not meant, a heart will stay bluer than blue…”.
The blurb declares the authors’ awareness that their heartbreaks happened because their relationships were not meant to be. The authors do not search for ways to mend their relationships because they know that these are already lost causes. Rather than hoping that things could still go back to the way they were, they process their heartbreaks in poems and paragraphs. As I read their works, I realized that there was power in simply not accepting the goodbyes that transpired in the past. However, it is also possible that while they were unacceptable, it is still possible to embrace lives without the people that we are not meant to love. This can begin by processing the heartbreaks that broke us, without allowing them to damage us completely. And while it is impossible to explain these heartbreaks through empirical means, it is possible to flesh out the details of these lost loves through prose and poetry. This was successfully done by the authors, and the conversations continue through their social media pages.
Bluer Than Blue: Prose and Poetry is not a tragedy. It is an ode to unacceptable goodbyes, wherein its authors did not allow themselves to be victimized by their own heartbreaks. Instead, they celebrated them through literary works which they have compiled in this book. I highly recommend this because local poetry books that are well written should serve as inspiration to people of all pages. Heartbreak can be turned into a superpower, if only it can be tapped to be used as material for great literary pieces.
Bluer Than Blue: Prose and Poetry will soon be available on the Central Books website.
Pinoy pop act raven recalls sweet, laid-back memories in new song “Sunday”
Filipino singer-songwriter/producer raven recalls his fondest moments with a lover in his new single "Sunday," out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
The balmy tune captures the essence of laid-back afternoons and countryside trips in a romantic way—a charming quality that the young artist from Balcony Entertainment has cultivated in recent years.
The bedroom pop soloist dedicates the song to his girlfriend, especially the lyrics, “o kay sarap magpalipas ng oras / lalo na kapag kasama kita (trans: time is well spent / when I’m with you).”
He explains, “The track speaks about remembering slow paced but fulfilling days with your loved ones and remembering those days while wishing for them to happen again.”
Written and produced by raven himself, “Sunday” is a pop-rapditty that glides smoothly into stripped-down territory, with the young artist’s penchant for catchy guitar riffs and lo-fi sonic details adding color to the production. Easily one of his catchiest tracks to date, the summery bop will surely win the audience over—thanks to its simplicity and earnest sensibilities.
According to raven, the release of the song will be “accompanied by a visualizer that brims with quirky aesthetics and a unique twist in the end.”
raven’s “Sunday” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
ERIC BELLINGER & HITMAKA RECRUIT MUNI LONG, CORDAE, TINK & MORE FOR 1(800) HIT-EAZY: LINE 2 OUT NOW!
ACCOMPANIED BY THE OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR “SUM 2 SEE” FEATURING BLXST!
2x GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum singer/songwriter Eric Bellinger & super producer Hitmaka release their new album 1(800) HIT-EAZY: LINE 2 via All Wins Ent./EMPIRE. The project is accompanied by the official video to the unheard single, “Sum 2 See” featuring buzzing newcomer Blxst.
STREAM 1(800)HIT-EAZY: LINE 2HERE
WATCH “SUM 2 SEE” FT. BLXST HERE
The highly anticipated album, 1(800) HIT-EAZY: LINE 2, follows Eric’s critically acclaimed GRAMMY-nominated album New Light and is the second installment of the 1(800) HIT-EAZY series from the artist and producer duo. The 14-track project features special appearances from Fabolous, Cordae, Tink, Blxst, Kalan.FrFr, & recent GRAMMY winner Muni Long in addition to previously released hit singles, “Obsession,” “Obsession” Remix ft. Muni Long, the gym anthem “BNB” (Brand New Body) and “Decide.”
Speaking about the project, Eric shares, “For the first time in a long time, I stepped outside of talking about my personal relationship & emotions to speak on behalf of the fellas! If you listen to the project from start to finish, you hear a 14-track story filled with love, vulnerability, and betrayal but this time from the male's perspective. We hear a lot about men living double lives, but we never heard the story when the roles are reversed. I took it upon myself to tell the story of the side dude.”
Accompanied alongside the album is an official music video for “Sum 2 See” featuring buzzing artist Blxst. The track samples the 1988 popular hit “Piece of My Love” by R&B group Guy and is directed by frequent collaborator Keoni Mars (Ty Dolla $ign, Masego). “Sum 2 See” visually picks up where “Obsession” left off, as Bellinger’s love interest finally gives him a chance to date.
1(800)HIT-EAZY: LINE 2 Tracklist
1. “Replay This”
2. “Nighttime Fantasies”
3. “Curious” Feat. Fabolous & Cordae
4. “BNB” (Brand New Body)
5. “Way You Move”
6. “2 Bad” Feat. Kalan.FrFr
7. “Obsession”
8. “Sum 2 See” Feat. Blxst
9. “IFYKYK”
10.“I’m Tryin’” Feat. Tink
11.“Decide”
12.“Patterns”
13.“Keep Me In Mind”
Bonus: “Obsession” Remix Feat. Muni Long
Bellinger is currently on the road for The “Obsession Tour” which is his first solo headlining tour with Trevor Jackson, Kyle Banks & more as openers. The tour kicked off on February 2nd in Seattle, and will make stops through Chicago, Atlanta, New York & more! Today, he will be able to celebrate the release of his project in his home city of Los Angeles at The Vermont.
For more information and ticket purchases, please visitwww.ericbellinger.com/shows
“The Obsession Tour” Dates:
March 30, 2023 – Orange County, CA – Constellation Room
March 31, 2023 – San Diego, CA – Voodoo Room
April 1, 2023 – Las Vegas, CA - StarBase
Keep Up With Eric Bellinger:
INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | FACEBOOK |YOUTUBE | TIK TOK
Source: Blackstar
Summer Flip Flops from Shopee
Buy these cute and comfy >₱70 slippers here. 🩴 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
Just finished reading #thelightwecarry by @michelleobama! Buy it here. 📖 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
Tanikala Brings You Stories of Hope and Forgiveness with “Senior Moment” and “Kampihan”
CBN Asia’s much-anticipated Holy Week special, Tanikala, brings you two brand-new made-for-TV films about hope and forgiveness, with Senior Moment airing on Maundy Thursday, April 6, and Kampihan on Good Friday, April 7, at 5:00 p.m. on GMA.
In Senior Moment, seasoned actors Carla Martinez and Mari Kaimo tell the story of a balikbayan couple who decide to retire in their hometown in Batangas—and to everyone’s surprise—end their decades-long marriage.
In this dramedy, their characters, Pepe and Pilaring, are welcomed by neophyte burglars, Hutch Perales and ArcyMorfe, followed by a hilarious situation that changes their lives forever.
Thrilled about their first Tanikala role as husband and wife, the actors shared that they felt the deep connection to their roles and hoped that viewers would resonate with Senior Moment, too.
“That also happened to my marriage. I can relate to Pilaring because during a trying time in my marriage, I also felt that I was not appreciated anymore. There was a point that I wanted to end my marriage, but I thank God that He saved me and my marriage,” Carla recalled.
Meanwhile, Barbara Miguel, Karen Atendido, and showbiz couple Jan Marini and Gerard Pizzaras are back in another heart-tugging story in Kampihan.
They are joined by rising actors Angel Guardian, Neo Rivera, Carlos Canlas, CJ de Guzman, and Ellene Cubelo, who will play a group of travel joiners who accidentally end up in a remote fisherman’s village. This life-changing turn of events leads the group on a journey of discovering more about faith, family, and purpose.
“Mang Fred loves his child very much and I could relate to him in that aspect. Like him, I try my best to protect my relationship with my children,” Gerard said. His wife Jan, who plays mother roles with ease, has a slightly different take on her role, “I can’t see myself having a laid-back life like Nanay Anita, but when it comes to parenting, we are both very hands-on and involved in the lives of our children.”
Senior Moment is directed by John Valdes Tan and written by Gina Marissa Tagasa and Icko Gonzalez, Kampihan is written and directed by Icko Gonzalez.
“Our hope is that Senior Moment will encourage viewers to reflect on the significance of marriage and inspire them to work towards building and maintaining strong and lasting relationships. In Kampihan, we aim to inspire others to find fulfillment in the knowledge that they are loved and valued by our Creator. These stories are ones that must be told, and we invite you to be a part of the journey,” Gonzalez said.
Witness stories of hope and forgiveness in Tanikala presents Senior Moment on Maundy Thursday, April 6, and Kampihan on Good Friday, April 7, at 5:00 p.m. on GMA.
Source: CBN Asia
Shopee Cat Toy with Scratching Post
We can’t stop recommending this cat toy 🧸 Buy this cat scratching post toy here. 🐈 #shopresambassador #shopaholicsam
Cat Scratching Post
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The Itchyworms dedicate new song “Panic In My Mind” to Chino Singson
The upbeat, ‘60s-inspired track can also be interpreted in many ways, according to lead vocalist and drummer Jazz Nicolas
The Itchyworms are back with an upbeat, retro-pop tune that deals with the dread of knowing that your loved one will be moving away to a different place for good.
Their new single “Panic In My Mind” was specifically written for their bandmate Chino Singson, who moved to Canada with his family to start a new life.
But according to Jazz Nicolas (lead vocals, drums, piano, keyboards, and keytar), who wrote the song based on a real-life event, the meaning behind “Panic In My Mind” can be taken in multiple ways. “The second half of the song shifts the narrative to a bitter person whose ex-partner in now with someone else, and is having a jealous existential crisis because of that.”
The Itchyworms' signature sound lives on in "Panic in My Mind," which blends intricate vocal harmonies and colorful melodies with ‘60s-style pop. A perfect accompaniment for its lyrics, which talk about pining over someone in a world where they are the anomaly, the arrangement turns up the excitement a few more notches with its nuanced musicality. It’s done with effortless grace and less of theatrics.
“We were going for a more organic sound with acoustic instruments as opposed to our previous album, Waiting For The End To Start, which had a lot of electronic elements,” Nicolas explains. “It also has a ‘60s vibe due to the jangly guitars and three-part harmonies.”
“Panic In My Mind” is produced by Jazz Nicolas and Mikey Amistoso. The latter is a long-time friend and collaborator, who is now officially part of the band.
“He co-produced the song with us, played various instruments, and sang harmonies,” Nicolas adds.
The Itchyworms are set to embark on their first US tour, dubbed “Akin Ka Na Lang, Amerika.”
The multi-city concert kicks off on March 24 in New York City, New York and will wrap up on April 7 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Here are the official dates and venues:
March 24 - New York (D'Haven),
March 25 - Fort Worth (Ridglea Theater)
March 26 - San Antonio (The Grand Event Center),
March 29 - Houston (Gerry's Grill),
March 31 - San Francisco (Bal Theater):
April 1 - Los Angeles (The Noypitz DTLA)
April 2 - San Diego (Lola Happy Bistro)
April 5 - Chicago (Michella Terrace)
April 7 - Las Vegas (Diversion Amusements)
For more information about the tour, visit the band’s official social media pages and revamped website: www.itchyworms.com
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
The Itchyworms’ “Panic In My Mind” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
P-Pop star MONA recalls memories of being a fan on new single “Tagahanga”
“Tagahanga” is produced by K-Pop/P-Pop producer OhWon Lee and written by MONA herself.
Filipino singer-songwriter MONA channels the inner thoughts of a fan girl on “Tagahanga,” her official second single under Sony Music Entertainment.
The song tells the story of a passionate fan who rallies around her idol, hoping to connect with them in a meaningful way and get noticed. It was also penned by MONA herself, who admitted that her experiences as a fan inspired the storytelling.
“To an extent, I’d say that these memories come from a place of love and adoration,” MONA shares. “I took the experience to heart when I decided to start a career in music, because at some point in my life, I know how it feels to be a fan.”
On “Tagahanga,” the promising songstress transforms her positive energy into a euphoric pop anthem. She delivers the material produced by K-Pop/P-Pop producer OhWonLee with a balance of introspection and enthusiasm, singing as if she’s fully committed to the essence of the narrative.
“The producer prominently highlights the bass and guitarparts, creating a driving rhythm that encourages dancing and movement,” the Always Remember act adds. “This, in turn, sets the tone of the track, adding a layer of fun and excitement.”
MONA recently joined Sony Music Entertainment’s esteemed roster of P-Pop talents, which also includes KAIA, Fourth Impact and SB19 among its lineup. With more than 18 million followers on TikTok and a growing portfolio as an influencer, the breakthrough artist hopes to conquer the local music scene with her vocal abilities and solid pop instincts.
MONA’s new track “Tagahanga” serves as a follow-up to her debut single “Always Remember,” a song that values the importance of self-worth and preservation in facing one’s fears.
MONA’s “Tagahanga” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
EMERGING KOREAN ALT-ROCK ARTIST LØREN RELEASES DEBUT EP, “PUT UP A FIGHT”
LISTEN HERE
WATCH: MUSIC VIDEO FOR TRACK “FOLKS”
HERE
Photo Credit: 88rising and THEBLACKLABEL
Rising alt-rock artist LØREN has released his debut EP, “Put Up a Fight,” out now via 88rising and THEBLACKLABEL. The 5-song EP was written and produced by LØREN - listen HERE. Along with the EP, LØREN released a stunning video for EP track “Folks” - watch HERE.
“Put Up a Fight” highlights LØREN’s unique strengths as a musician - the Korean artist wrote, produced, and played each instrument for all the songs on the EP by himself. LØREN’s grungy vocals cascade over roaring guitar riffs and powerful drums throughout the project, ranging from the pop-punk angst of “Panic” to the indie-rock inspired “Sticks And Stones.” The EP is as remarkable visually as it is sonically - the “Folks” music video amplifies the themes of the song through breathtaking (and bloody) imagery. LØREN struggles forward through a church as he is bombarded with bullets and arrows, with the video ending in LØREN triumphantly playing guitar as fireworks explode around him.
“Put Up a Fight” is LØREN’s first release since 2021 and marks the start of an exciting new era. The EP comes on the heels of his first ever visit to the United States where he performed at SXSW, with Paste calling his performance one of the best shows they saw all week. He also recently announced that he will be performing at 88rising’s Head in the Clouds in New York City on May 21.
LØREN has made a name for himself internationally as a songwriter for BLACKPINK (and video costar) along with buzz for a string of singles he released in 2021, which together have garnered him 14M Youtube views and 1.2M instagram followers. He is currently the face of Saint Laurent and has graced the covers of Vogue Hong Kong, DAZED Korea, i-D, and most recently Female Magazine as their first male cover star.
CONNECT WITH LØREN
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | WEBSITE
Source: Blackstar
The Expat by Jovelle Fernandez
The Expat by @jovelle_fernandez is an insightful book about life around the world. You do not need to be an expat to appreciate the rich lessons in this book. Buy it here. 📖 Read my review on www.speakoutsam.com📖 #booksam #shopeesambassador @centralbooksph #publishondemand
The Expat: An Invitation to Improve and Grow
I read The Expat: Powerful Life Lessons from Living, Working, and Traveling Around the World by Jovelle Fernandez, M.D., Ph.D., on the premise that it is an invitation to become the real best version of myself. It has exceeded my expectations. More than being an autobiography about a Filipina doctor’s international career, it was also a call to become a kinder individual.
I read it in one sitting even when I have never worked overseas because the author had a lively and engaging writing style that invited me into her life. She was able to inject humor into some serious topics such as leadership in a male-dominated society and experiencing potential sexual harassment in a liberal city. She was able to incorporate family values and lessons on keeping one’s faith alive without sounding preachy and overbearing. It was a pleasure to read and appreciate this book not just as a whole, but for being both an informative and inspirational autobiography and an educational book.
The author introduced the book as something which could be universally appreciated. It does not have to be read by those who worked abroad alone. It can provide life lessons to everybody, which sounded like a daunting task. The author has successfully fulfilled this by keeping her writing simple yet powerful. She let her own stories and insights speak for themselves. True to her velvet hammer nature, the author can speak volumes and deliver a point without trying too hard.
This book is about going beyond your own comfort zone. I surely enjoyed her life story, as well as her valuable lessons. It is a love letter to the resilience of the Filipino. It provides hope and wisdom without the fluff. It is a trip around the world, while emphasizing the real meaning of home and self-worth.
The Expat by Jovelle Fernandez, M.D., Ph.D., is available on https://central.com.ph/ and on Shopee.
Nipa Brew Sun Stoked Craft Beer
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Filipino singer-songwriter syd harthatransforms trauma and darkness into healing on debut EP, gabay
The 6-track release is written by syd herself, and produced by constant collaborator Brian Lotho
Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha addresses her personal battles in life on gabay, her debut EP under Sony Music Entertainment.
In touch with her own fragilities, syd hartha digs deeper into her experiences with trauma, heartbreak, pandemic stress, and healing on an EP that feels more than just a warm balm.
According to the young musician, gabay is crucial in reclaiming her identity as it helps her confront emotional truths in a way that is freeing and empowering. The folk-pop act explains, "My new EP is a compilation of different stories from my adventures and misadventures as a young woman. It mainly talks about healing and taking control over your own destiny; letting go of the past, and getting to know yourself again.”
Produced by Brian Lotho, gabay features an esteemed list of collaborators and guests, including Pat Sarabia on drums, Raisa Racelis on bass, and Bea Fabros for the lead guitar parts in "kung nag-aatubili.” Incorporating delicate melodies and deceptively simple arrangements with her folk-pop sound, syd hartha leaves listeners mesmerized on gabay, a record that recognizes the importance of asserting creative agency while inviting meaningful collaborations into the fold.
The 6-track EP was originally intended for an earlier release, but due to circumstances beyond her control, sydhad to start from scratch and rethink things through. “My band and I were already scheduled for the recording of the whole EP in March 2020,” the paruparo singer-songwriter shares. “The pandemic happened, and it caused significant disruption to our plans. But everything happens for a reason. It gave me room to explore and grow at my own pace.”
syd hartha’s gabay spins tales from a confessional standpoint, moving into gloomier territory when needed and finding light and hope amidst the arduous process.
The 22-year-old artist reveals, "pakay, kung nag-aatubili, and 3:15 are songs I wrote years ago when I was in a dark place,” she said. "gabay and lipad were written during the pandemic, a time where we were all stuck inside four corners, seeing ourselves every day. I reached a point where I saw myself in the mirror and realized I didn’t recognize her anymore. I knew I was sick of treating and talking negatively to myself and started to decide I wanted to create a new life for myself. I realized that I had to zoom out of my little box of self-loathing and see things through from a different perspective. During those moments, I realized that I wouldn’t even be alive forever, I might as well just have fun in this whole life thing, right?”
syd hartha’s debut EP, gabay is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
HATCH: The 5th Edition
For the forthcoming Easter season, The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Manila Bulletin, brings back HATCH – a one-of-a-kind showcase of artfully crafted Easter eggs. Displayed as a focal point of the Grand Lobby of the hotel, guests will be treated to a delightful display of novel collaboration of Filipino artists.
With the aim to promote the local art scene and highlight the creative genius of local artists, HATCH: The 5th Edition features 18 uniquely customized acrylic eggs showcasing multitude of creative styles and distinct personalities of Filipino contemporary artists who come from different disciplines. Just as the artists adapted their respective unique styles of mixed media, each Easter egg has a different story to tell.
Featured artists include: Addie Cukingnan, Agi Pagkatipuna, Al Perez, Aner Sebastian, Carlito Ortega, Carlo Magno, Cindel Tiausas, Carlos Cee Cadid, Demet dela Cruz, Migi Sebastian, Egai Fernandez, Emmanuel Nim, Jinggoy Salcedo, Margie Organo, Maria Magdamit, Migs Villanueva, Monnar Baldemor, Reen Barrera, Remy Boquiren, Roger “Rishab” Tibon.
In 2020, Manila Bulletin won the gold award for HATCH during the 55th Anvil Awards. The exhibit moved from city to city where visitors were introduced to an exceptional showcase of Filipino artistry.
HATCH will be on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until April 23, 2023.
Source: The Manila Hotel