Pinoy designer’s creation wins best national costume in Haiti

Proud Pinoy: Filipino designer’s creation wins best national costume at Miss Universe Haiti 2026

Story by David
When In Manila
22 September 2026

Pinoy talent shines bright once more on the international stage after Filipino fashion designer Kennedy Gasper’s breathtaking pearl-inspired creation won the coveted Best National Costume award at the 2026 Miss Universe Haiti pageant.

Named “The Pearl of the Antilles,” Gasper’s masterpiece was worn by 26-year-old pageant veteran Sklouchere Pierre during the Miss Universe Haiti competition held on August 23, 2026, where she ultimately finished as second runner-up.

​“’Pearl of the Antilles’ is my tribute to Haiti—the beauty that captivates, the resilience that endures, and the spirit that cannot be dimmed. Inspired by Haiti’s identity as the jewel of the Caribbean, this costume represents a nation whose greatest treasure has always been its people. I wear it proudly as Haiti’s beauty, strength, and story take center stage,” Sklouchere shared in a post.

Gasper’s creation seamlessly combines oceanic and celestial elements through intricate beadwork and luminous textures. The showstopping ensemble features a clear corset adorned with vertical rows of white pearls and sparkling jewels, while the bust area showcases a dramatic, coral-like sculpture centered around an oversized pearl.

The costume creates a striking contrast between its upper and lower halves. Its royal blue skirt, crafted from a metallic, light-reflecting fabric that mimics the ocean’s motion, adds a vibrant pop of color.

​To complete the ethereal look, the 25-year-old Isabela native styled the piece with a stunning, glow-in-the-dark moon headpiece paired with cascading white beads framing the face. The ensemble was finished off with a grand backpiece and matching arm accessories shaped like natural seashells.

This victory marks yet another major milestone in Gasper’s portfolio. Prior to his recent creation for Sklouchere, the fashion designer from San Mateo, Isabela, crafted the iconic lion-inspired costume for Miss Universe Cameroon 2020 Angèle Kossinda.

​Back in 2021, Gasper also made headlines worldwide when his creation for Miss Universe Nigeria Maristella Okpala took home the Best National Costume award at the 70th Miss Universe pageant—proving time and time again that Filipino design and craftsmanship are truly world-class.

​Back in 2021, Gasper also made headlines worldwide when his creation for Miss Universe Nigeria Maristella Okpala took home the Best National Costume award at the 70th Miss Universe pageant—proving time and time again that Filipino design and craftsmanship are truly world-class.

Filipinos are finally getting well-deserved recognition on the global stage

Liza Soberano: Filipino global recognition is sparking a movement

Kristofer Purnell 
Philstar.com
September 17, 2026 

MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos are finally getting well-deserved recognition on the global stage, says Liza Soberano.

Philstar.com exclusively spoke to the actress during the promotional rounds for her latest film "Forgotten Island," a DreamWorks Animation movie inspired by Filipino culture, mythology, and folklore.

Majority of the project's cast and crew is of Filipino descent. Liza leads the voice cast alongside fellow Filipino-American H.E.R., and together even contribute a song on the official soundtrack.

The movie follows best friends Raissa and Jo (Liza and H.E.R., respectively) as they are stranded on the titular island of Nakali, where the only way home may mean losing a lifetime of memories and emotions.

Liza shared her thoughts on what it means to be part of the Filipino community being recognized even more in the global entertainment scene.

The actress began by acknowledging how surreal and honored she feels being part of the project itself.

"I feel like this is kind of a movement," Liza continued. "There's so many Filipinos all over the world that are kind of having a moment in film, music, and food space."

She noted how exciting it was to see people form other cultures taking interest or having curiosity for Philippine culture and finding the beauty in it.

"Us, Filipinos, we love to travel the world and experience other people's cultures so it's nice that we're finally also getting that [kind of] reactions to our culture," Liza added.

"Forgotten Island" also features the voices of Lea Salonga, Dolly de Leon, Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy, Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto, Filipino-American actress Amielynn Abellera, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng.

Directed by Joel Crawford and Filipino-American Januel Mercado, it hits Philippine cinemas this September 23.

Philippines will be represented in the Oscars by two movies

Two Filipino films are Oscar-bound

Business World
September 15, 2026 

IF THINGS go right, the Philippines will be represented in the Oscars by two movies, one as the country’s official entry to the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, the other as Australia’s official entry. Philippine market insights

The Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) has announced that Rafael Manuel’s Filipiñana has been selected as the Philippines’ official entry.

According to an FAP statement, “In selecting Filipiñana, the Committee considered the integrity of the film, the producers’ commitment and capacity to fulfill the requirements of the Oscars campaign, and the film’s ability to embody the pride of Philippine cinema. The Committee also recognized the film’s strong visual style but more importantly its incisive examination of class, power, labor, and social realities, as well as its growing international profile.”

The committee, composed of Filipino film industry experts approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and convened by the Film Academy of the Philippines, considered eight films and evaluated them based on artistic merit, cultural relevance, and international campaign potential, choosing Filipiñana to go to the Oscars.

“The film offers a visually distinct and controversial portrait of the Filipino experience: through the eyes of a young Filipina at an elite country club, the film exposes the structural violence, class disparity, and post-colonial inequities that persist even now beneath a meticulously manicured surface of privilege. Its growing international critical recognition affirms both its artistic merit and its capacity to carry a Filipino story rooted in universal questions of power, identity, and survival to a global audience. The Film Academy will work closely with the Filipiñana team throughout the Oscars campaign, providing the support they need and make the most of this opportunity for Philippine cinema,” FAP Director-General Paolo Villaluna was quoted as saying.

Filipiñana follows a 17-year-old girl from rural Ilocos who works as a “tee girl,” lining up golf balls for the club’s wealthy members. Then she discovers that her seemingly innocent fascination with the club’s president is connected to a darker shared history.

The film stars Jorrybell Agoto, Carmen Castellanos, Teroy Guzman, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Isabel Sicat, and Nour Houshmand.

Filipiñana made its world premiere in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, where it received the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Creative Vision. It was also shown at the Berlin International Film Festival, the San Francisco International Film Festival, at the Independent Film Festival of Boston, and at the Cinema Jove International Film Festival.

AUSTRALIA’S BET

Meanwhile, Australia selected First Light, the feature debut of Filipino-Australian filmmaker James J. Robinson.

First Light has a predominantly Filipino cast and uses mostly Tagalog to tell its story. It stars Ruby Ruiz, Maricel Soriano, Rez Cortez, and National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik.

The film revolves around Sister Yolanda, an aging nun whose faith is challenged following an incident at a remote convent in the Philippines. Philippinemarket insights

First Light has made the rounds of international festivals including the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Marrakech International Film Festival, the International Film Festival Rotterdam, the Shanghai International Film Festival, the Glasgow Film Festival, and the New Zealand International Film Festival.

The film received funding from Screen Australia in association with the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund, and the FDCP and VicScreen. It is produced by Majella Productions and Clou Media Productions.

The 99th Academy Awards will be held on March 14, 2027, in Los Angeles. — AAH

Lav Diaz film Makikiraan Po wins award at Venice Film Festival

Lav Diaz film Makikiraan Po wins award at Venice Film Festival

Jojo Gabinete 
PEP.ph
14 September 2026

Lav Diaz proves he’s not just a great director but also a talented actor, showcasing his skills in his scenes from Call My Manager!

Diaz portrays himself in the much-talked-about Filipino series streaming on HBO Max.

The audience enjoyed his scenes with Monsour del Rosario.

LAV DIAZ'S FILM WINS AT VENICE FILM FESTIVAL

The 67-year-old film director received praise for his performance in Call My Manager!, his film Makikiraan Po, with the English title Let Us Through, Dear Ancestors, was honored at the 83rd Venice Film Festival.

Makikiraan Po received the Premio Brian or Brian Award from the international film festival which began on September 2, 2026 and ended on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Lovi Poe and Montgomery Blencowe are among the producers of Makikiraan Po, which stars Ronnie Lazaro, Christian Bables, Bart Guingona, Yul Servo, and Rafa Siguion Reyna.

The Brian Prize is awarded to a film that demonstrates respect for human rights and freedom of conscience.

83RD VENICE FILM FESTIVAL WINNERS

American actor John Malkovich won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor for the film Wild Horse Nine.

Part of his acceptance speech: "I am humbled to be chosen for this award, which has been given to so many wonderful actors over the past 83 iterations of the Venice Film Festival.

"Thank you to the jury for bestowing this honor upon me, and thank you, Martin McDonagh, for writing this lovely screenplay and for your superb direction of it, and for gifting me with this fantastic role.

"And thank you to all my wonderful colleagues, most especially my sidekick, the great Sam Rockwell."

Filipino actor John Arcilla won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor in 2021 for his performance in On The Job: The Missing 8.

The winners of the 83rd Venice Film Festival held at the Venice Lido, Italy:

Golden Lion: Woman Unknown, May el-Toukhy

Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize: Possible Love, Lee Chang-dong

Silver Lion for Best Director: Ilya Khrzhanovsky, DAU

Special Jury Prize: NAZA, Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor

Best Screenplay: Un Bon Petit Soldat, Coralie Amedeo, Stéphane Brizé, Olivier Gorce

Volpi Cup for Best Actor: John Malkovich, Wild Horse Nine

Volpi Cup for Best Actress: Mathilde Arcel, Woman Unknown

Marcello Mastroianni Best Young Actor Award: Malou Khebizi, A Place to Heal

Luigi De Laurentiis Award for Debut Film: House of the Wind, Auguste Bernard

Kouemo Yanghu Audience Award — Armani Beauty: I Matter, Alina ?erban Orizzonti

Best Film: Diane in the Loop, Ann Sirot and Raphaël Balboni Orizzonti

Best Director: Jacqueline Lentzou, A Day in the Life of Jo: Chapter Phaedra

Orizzonti Special Jury Prize: House of the Wind, Auguste Bernard, Kouemo Yanghu Orizzonti

Ilocos Norte student Cassandra Rasos Crowned World Champion in Hong Kong Math Olympiad

Ashley Cassandra Rasos Crowned World Champion in Hong Kong Math Olympiad

Flying Ketchup
25 August 2026

All Photos: Michael Malvar

A young Ilocos Norte student has brought pride to the Philippines after emerging as champion in the Senior Secondary category of the Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiad. Ashley Cassandra Rasos, a Grade 11 student of Sarrat National High School, topped her division against students from different countries.

She competed in the category covering Levels 10, 11, and 12 and represented the Philippines in the international competition. Her victory gave Sarrat National High School another reason to celebrate its growing reputation in mathematics competitions. The achievement also shows how Filipino students can compete and excel on the international academic stage.

Who Is Ashley Cassandra Rasos?

Ashley Cassandra Rasos is a Grade 11 student from Sarrat National High School in Ilocos Norte. She represented the Philippines in the Senior Secondary category of the Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiad. The category included students from Levels 10, 11, and 12, putting Rasos against competitors from different countries. Despite the level of competition, she emerged as the champion of her division. 

A Champion From Sarrat National High School

Rasos’ victory also brought international recognition to Sarrat National High School. The school has produced students who have performed strongly in mathematics competitions, including other representatives who joined the same event. Her win adds another international achievement to the school’s growing list of academic accomplishments. It also highlights the opportunities available to students who develop their skills in mathematics at a young age. For Rasos, the competition became an opportunity to represent both her school and the Philippines.

Other Sarrat Students Also Earned Awards

Rasos was not the only student from Sarrat National High School who received recognition in the competition. Kurt Arjan Palalay and Immanuel Gamayo competed in the Secondary 1 category, with Gamayo receiving a Merit Award. Clark Kent Malaqui and Patrick Jirah Cabasaan competed in Secondary 2, where they earned Bronze Awards. Except for Cabasaan, the Sarrat representatives were first-time participants in the competition. Their results made the international event an especially notable achievement for the school.

Sarrat National High School representatives and their results:

Ashley Cassandra Rasos — Champion, Senior Secondary category

Kurt Arjan Palalay — competed in Secondary 1

Immanuel Gamayo — Merit Award, Secondary 1

Clark Kent Malaqui — Bronze Award, Secondary 2

Patrick Jirah Cabasaan — Bronze Award, Secondary 2

Guided by Coach Michael Malvar

Rasos and the Sarrat delegation competed under the guidance of coach Michael Malvar. His role was to support the students as they represented their school and the Philippines in the international mathematics competition. The delegation’s performance resulted in several recognitions beyond Rasos’ championship. The Philippine delegation also received four distinctions during the competition, namely the Boole Award, Leibniz Award, Euler Award, and Euclid Award. 

Ilocos Norte’s Strong Math Competition Record

Rasos’ achievement is part of a broader record of strong performances by students from Ilocos Norte in international mathematics competitions. In 2024, Sarrat National High School student Brian Jansen Vallejo was recognized as a World Champion in the World International Mathematical Olympiad in the Secondary 1 category.

The Philippine Senate later cited Vallejo and other Filipino students who won awards at the competition. Another Sarrat graduate, Ma. Cassandra Reich Duque, became a WIMO World Champion and later received a full scholarship to the Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen. These achievements show that the province has produced students capable of competing at a high level in international mathematics. Rasos’ latest victory adds another impressive chapter to that record.

Why Her Victory Matters

The achievement of the Ilocos Norte student is more than just a personal academic victory. It demonstrates the ability of Filipino students to compete with young mathematicians from other countries. International competitions also give students opportunities to test their problem-solving skills against challenging mathematics problems.

Success in these events can help raise the profile of Philippine schools and encourage more students to pursue mathematics and science. Rasos’ achievement may also inspire other young Filipinos to see academic competitions as opportunities to represent the country.

A Proud Moment for the Philippines

Ashley Cassandra Rasos’ championship gives Filipinos another reason to celebrate young talent in the country. Coming from Sarrat National High School, she demonstrated that world-class academic achievements are not limited to students from major urban centers.

Her success also puts attention on Ilocos Norte and the students and educators developing mathematics talent in the province. Together with the achievements of her fellow Sarrat representatives, the result reflects the potential of Filipino students in international competitions. For many Filipinos, the story of this Ilocos Norte student is a reminder that talent can come from anywhere.

Making the Country Proud

Ashley Cassandra Rasos has made her school, province, and country proud after becoming champion of the Senior Secondary category at the Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiad. Her achievement came alongside awards earned by several other students from Sarrat National High School.

With the guidance of coach Michael Malvar, the delegation successfully represented the Philippines in an international mathematics competition. Rasos’ victory also continues a growing tradition of strong mathematics performances from students in Ilocos Norte. The story of this Ilocos Norte student proves that Filipino youth can make their mark on the world stage through talent, preparation, and determination.

Filipino law students crowned world champion at Oxford University Moot Court

Filipino law students crowned world champion at Oxford University Moot Court

Facebook Post 
Iskolar ng Bayan
22 August 2026

WORLD CHAMPIONS! 🇵🇭⚖️

Law students from the University of San Agustin College of Law in Iloilo brought pride to the Philippines after winning the 2026 Monroe E. Price Media Law Moot Court Competition International Rounds held in Oxford, England. Oxford’s official results named the University of San Agustin, Philippines as champion, with Osgoode Hall Law School of Canada finishing as runner-up.

The international rounds were held from April 13 to 17, 2026, with the final taking place at the Bonavero Institute of Human Rights, University of Oxford. A total of 85 teams competed across six regional rounds, with only 30 teams from around the world advancing to Oxford.

The winning Filipino team was composed of Marco Giorgione Dava, team captain and oralist; Gie Ann Marie Aloro, oralist; and researchers Kenverly Kirch Duran and Zynnie Zaragosa. They competed under the University of San Agustin’s Bulahan Price Team.

Dava also earned an individual distinction, placing 10th among 98 oralists in the preliminary rounds. The global field included teams from institutions such as the University of Oxford, University of Chicago, University of Vienna, Singapore Management University, NALSAR University of Law, and the University of the Philippines.

Their victory was later formally recognized in the Philippine House of Representatives through House Resolution No. 1030, congratulating the University of San Agustin College of Law team for winning the world championship at the 2026 competition.

From Iloilo to Oxford, Filipino law students have once again shown that Philippine talent can stand—and win—on the global academic stage. 🇵🇭🌻

Para sa Edukasyon. Para sa Bayan

Pinoys making waves in J-pop industry

6 Filipino artists making waves in J-Pop

Nika Roque
GMA News
20 August 2026

SB19 and BINI raised the Philippine flag in Japan at the Summer Sonic last weekend. The two groups performed both in the Osaka and Tokyo legs of the music festival, introducing the P-pop sound to Japanese audiences.

But did you know that the J-pop scene also has Filipino artists?

Several Pinoys are making their names and talents known in Japan—from singing popular OSTs, pursuing careers as solo artists, and becoming part of idol groups.

Here are six Filipinos making waves in J-Pop.

Beverly

If you are a fan of anime or Japanese series, chances are you already heard her voice.

Beverly Caimen, simply known as Beverly, is a Filipino singer now based in Japan. She is known for being part of the official soundtracks of Japanese shows.

She performed "Again," the Season 1 opening song of the 2019 reboot of "Fruits Basket," and "I Need Your Love," the theme song of the 2017 drama "Crisis" starring Shun Oguri.

"My gosh, the first time the drama came out and I heard my voice, it was like I was in shock," Beverly told GMA News Online in Filipino in an exclusive interview. "I heard my voice. It was on TV—on Japanese TV. So I got excited."

Beverly also recently went viral for her Rufa Mae Quinto impression on the Japanese variety show "Chidori's Oni Renchan" last May.

Earlier this year, she collaborated with "Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen" hitmaker Pikotaro for the song "Pee Poop Party People."

She was in the Philippines last year to perform at ToyCon 2025.

Kento Nakajima

Kento Nakajima confirmed that he is half-Filipino during an interaction with Liza Soberano at a fashion show in New York. They were caught on video, with Liza saying she's from the Philippines and Kento replying, "So I'm half-Filipino."

Kento is a known singer, actor, and television personality in Japan. He debuted as part of the group Sexy Zone in 2011. He left the group in 2024 and debuted as a solo artist that same year with the release of the album "N/bias."

As an actor, he made his international debut with the Hulu series, "Concordia." He also starred in the film "Love Like Falling Petals."

Kento is fresh from a performance with SB19 at Summer Sonic in Tokyo. They performed the hit song "Gento," with Kento performing a Japanese rap verse and also singing Tagalog lines.

He also had his own set both in Tokyo and Osaka.

Fondly known as Kenty, he is a proud otaku and often shares his love for anime like "Yu-Gi-Oh!"

Reiko

Reiko was born in the Philippines and raised in Japan. He participated in the talent search "The First" to become a member of the boy group Be:First, but he didn't make the final cut.

However, life had other plans as the rising J-Pop act made his solo debut in 2023 with the single "No More" followed by "Butterfly."

That same year, he dropped the ballad "Itazura," as well as its Filipino version, "Hanggang Kailan Pa."

Reiko visited the Philippines as part of the lineup of UMusic Night.

In July, Reiko released his renditions of "Tadhana" by UDD and "Multo" by Cup of Joe. He put his electronic and R&B twists of the hit OPM songs.

Alan Shirahama (Generations)

Alan Shirahama was born to a Filipino mother and Japanese father. He is known as the leader of the Japanese group, Generations. He is also a fourth-generation member of the group, Exile.

Generations has had a colorful career with eight studio albums in their discography. Their songs include "Hard Knock Days," "Love you More," and "Ageha."

Alan and fellow member Yuta recently met SB19, and did the "Lawless" dance challenge with Stell, Ken, and Justin.

Meanwhile, Alan also tours as a DJ and collaborates with various artists.

In 2023, he traveled to the Philippines and visited Intramuros and the San Agustin Church. He was named tourism ambassador to the country that same year.

Yuri (HANA)

The rising J-Pop group HANA has a half-Filipino member, Yuri. In an interview, Yuri said her love for music is thanks to her Filipino roots.

HANA released the pre-debut single "Drop" in January 2025, before their official debut single "Rose," which was released in April.

The group released their self-titled debut album last February. Their songs include "Blue Jeans," "Bad Girl," and "Tiger."

Yuri and fellow HANA member Naoko recently met SB19 in Japan and did the "Lawless" dance challenge with Josh and Justin.

Harumi

Harumi, or Harumi Kusagaya, was born to a Filipino mother and Japanese father.

According to Genius, Harumi showed an interest in music at a young age and joined the church choir at three years old. Her family then moved to Japan when she was 13.

Harumi made her major debut with the album, "Pride," in 2022. Her songs include "Sea of Memories," "Pride," and "Love."

She is also a theater actress who played Jane Seymour in the musical "Six" when it toured in Japan.

Along with Beverly, she is among the cast members of the Japanese staging of "Rent" the musical this year. —MGP, GMA News

Filipino dance group Legit Status declared champion in UDO World Finals UK

Legit Status Varsity bags gold in UDO World Street Dance tilt

Philstar Global
17 August 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino dance group Legit Status stomped its way to a first-place win in the UDO World Finals held from August 12-16 at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens in the United Kingdom.

The 24-member crew ruled the 18-and-Under Advance category, the first Filipino group to do so.

The squad earned its ticket to the Big Dance owing to first- and second-place finishes in the UDO Philippines Street Dance Championship in Quezon City from November 21-23, 2025.

The victory at Winter Gardens made the group a two-time world champion, having conquered the 2025 World Hip Hop Dance Championships in Phoenix, Arizona.

Legit Status Varsity also thus made a rousing follow-up to its showings at SOAR Manchester from August 7-9, where it struck gold in Under 16 category and finished as runner-up in the Adult Mega Crew division.

The Cubao Quezon City-based dance squad said it has been entering competitions left and right with one goal in mind: to put the Philippines on the global dance map.

And they have succeeded so far.

Bretman Rock, Niana Guerrero, Valkyrae make 2nd 'Time100 Creators' list

Bretman Rock, Niana Guerrero, Valkyrae make 2nd 'Time100 Creators' list

Kristofer Purnell 
Philstar Global
18 July 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Three individuals of Filipino descent landed on the "2026 TIME100 Creators" list by Time magazine, a compilation of 100 content creators deemed to have "the most influential digital voices."

All three representatives — Niana Guerrero, Bretman Rock and Rachel Hofstetter (better known as Valkyrae) — were included in the list's Titans category.

Niana, the only one of the three based in the Philippines, is the most-followed Filipino on TikTok at nearly 47 million followers and her inclusion featured a write-up by Leslie Horn Peterson.

The writer shared how Niana went viral in 2017 as a 12-year-old dancing to "Despacito" and now has collaborated with international artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae, Lisa of Blackpink and Katseye led by Filipina Sophia Laforteza.

United States-based Bretman and Valkyrae, who is of Filipino and German descent, both had their write-ups done by Kara Nesvig.

Nesvig noted how Bretman's Instagram and TikTok feeds are filled with beauty content around the world, as well as nature scenes from his Hawaiian home.

Bretman made the shift from Vine to YouTube by keeping in touch with short- and long-form content and now the more down-to-earth side of his life.

"With hilarious videos about naming baby peacocks or applying false lashes to his chickens so they look more like him — not to mention the farmland video that won him the 2025 TikTok Video of the Year Award— Bretman's content is a reminder of how living in harmony with nature can make life more beautiful," Nesvig wrote.

Gaming icon Valkyrae, meanwhile, was praised for being a standout Twitch streamer in a male-dominated space, picking up millions of views in the last decade.

Valkyrae's influence has extended beyond gaming with her Hihi Studios media company, "Wine About It" podcast, music video appearances, and voice roles in animation.

Joining the three in the Titans category were Joe Rogan, IShowSpeed, Druski, Alex Cooper, Alan Chikin Chow, Markiplier, Mark Rober, Subway Takes' Kareem Rahma, Quenlin Blackwell, and cover star Alix Earle — many of whom were on last year's inaugural list.

Notable names in other categories were Mark Phillips, Whitney Leavitt, Lex Fridman and "Backrooms" director Kane Parsons.

Cup of Joe wins special honor at Music Awards Japan 2026

Cup of Joe wins special honor at Music Awards Japan 2026

Kristofer Purnell 
PhilStar Global
16 July 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino pop-rock band Cup of Joe bannered the Philippines well at the recent Music Awards Japan after winning a special honor for the country.

Music Awards Japan, organized by Japan's Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association, honors musical talents from within Japan, around Asia, and in the Western regions.

The group attendend the ceremony last June 13 in Tokyo, where it performed hit track "Multo" during a premiere event in the afternoon ahead of the main proceedings.

"Multo" was up for Best Song Asia but lost to "Golden," the popular song from animated juggernaut "KPop Demon Hunters."

Cup of Joe did not leave emptyhanded, however, as "Multo" received the Philippine Popular Music Special Award, won last year by fellow band Lola Amour for its own hit song "Raining in Manila."

Similar regional special awards went to G-Dragon's "Power" for Korea, Youngohm's "My Heart Follows You" for Thailand, Hindia's "Everything U Are" for Indonesia, and Hòa Minzy's "Boc Bling" for Vietnam."

Local rock band Sakanaction won Song of the Year for "Kaiju," while pop singer Fujii Kaze and another rock act, Mrs. Green Apple, retained their Album of the Year and Artist of the Year awards, respectively, the former for his album "Prema."

Pop groups Hana and XG were honored with the New Artist of the Year and Best Global Hit from Japan awards respectively, the latter for "Hypnotize."

Mrs. Green Apple, Fujii Kaze, Hana, and XG won other awards during the ceremony but it was Kenshi Yonezu's "Iris Out — the theme song of "Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc" — that won Best Song in four different continents including Asia.

For the international song categories the winners were Lady Gaga's "Abracadabra" for Pop, Tyla's "Chanel" for R&B; Green Day's "Smash It Like Belushi" for Rock; Tyler, The Creator's "Stop Playing With Me" for Rap; Rosalia's "Reliquia" for Alternative; and Blackpink's "Jump" for K-pop. BTS won Best K-pop Artist.

PH athletes recently snared medals from various international events

PH harvests medals from rowing, aquatics, archery, bowling, billiards

Philippine News Agency (PNA)
July 9, 2026

Note: All photos are from Philippine Sports Commission Facebook page

MANILA – Aside from tennis' newest star Alex Eala, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, and gymnast bothers Carlos and Eldrew Yulo, a slew of Filipino athletes recently snared medals from various international events.

The Philippine youth team shone at the Asian Rowing Beach Sprint Championships in Pattaya, Thailand with three golds, one silver, and one bronze medal.

Emmanuel Pilar topped the U16 coastal men's single sculls and the double sculls with Kyle Olano; while Khayzie Caviltes and Ayonna Huerto ruled the U19 coastal women's double sculls.

Matt Jugadora pocketed silver in the U19 coastal men's single sculls, and Amelyn Pagulayan-Feiza Lenton took home the bronze in the coastal women's double sculls.

Meanwhile, 2024 Paris Olympian Joanie Delgaco snared bronze in the women’s single sculls at the 67th Internationale Ratzeburger Ruderregatta in Germany.

At the 122nd Vienna International Rowing Regatta in Austria, the Philippine team collected one gold, one silver and two bronze medals.

Edgar Ilas won in the lightweight men's single sculls while the men’s pair of Rynjie Peñaredondo and Van Maxilom clinched the silver.

Joanie Delgaco added two bronze medals to her collection -- one in the women’s single sculls and another in the women's doubles with Kristine Paraon.

In aquatics, divers Gabriella De Jesus, Gillianne Amber De Leon and Jana Rodriguez brought home a gold each from the 3rd Parisakti Diving International Competition in Jakarta, Indonesia.

De Jesus captured the gold in the platform (Group B Girls), De Leon in the platform (Group B Girls) and Jana Rodriguez in the Open platform girls.

De Jesus added a silver in the 1M springboard (Group B Girls).

Swimmers Riannah Chantelle Coleman and Jamesray Ajido, meanwhile, qualified for the Dakar Youth Olympic Games in Senegal, slated Oct. 31 to Nov. 13.

The other Filipino qualifiers are Pi Durden Wangkay and Naomi Marjorie Cesar (athletics), cyclist Maritanya Krog, and wushu artist Angel Polo.

Three more Filipinos are vying for slots in gymnastics and windsurfing, for a total of nine spots allocated to the Philippines via the universality rule.

Universality places are special entry spots in individual sports for underrepresented or developing nations even if they do not meet strict performance standards.

The Philippines finished 1-2 in the Predator PBC Indonesia International 10-Ball Open, also in Jakarta.

Three-time world champion Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado beat Paolo Gallito, 10-9.

Biado had won the world 9-ball twice (2017 and 2025) and the world 10-ball in 2024.

Team Philippines likewise made an impact in lawn bowling as Marisa Baronda-Johnson and Jocelyn Salanap dominated at the Lion City Cup in Singapore, striking gold in ends format and silver in sets format.

The Philippine team similarly impressed at the Singapore Youth Archery Championships with a 30-medal haul -- 13-10-7 gold-silver-bronze.

Abigail Jane Lim and Mateusz Vaughn Johnson nailed three individual gold medals each to lead the Filipino achievers.

Eala made it to the fourth round of Wimbledon in London, the first Filipino to go that far in a Grand Slam since Felicisimo Ampon's quarterfinal feat in the 1953 French Open in Paris.

Obiena, who ranked world No. 2 in 2023, won at the Czesław Cybulski Memorial in Poznań, Poland and at the Raiffeisen Austrian Open in Eisenstadt.

At the 13th Senior Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championship in China, Carlos and Edriel struck gold and bronze, respectively, in floor exercise.

Obiena and Carlos Yulo, both made it to the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Olympics, with the latter snaring two golds in Paris. (PNA)

FROM PSC FACEBOOK PAGE

05 JULY 2026 - The Philippines secures its first-ever world title as e-Gilas Pilipinas finishes on top at the E-FIBA World Finals Qatar Season 4 in Doha, Qatar. A monumental milestone for Philippine esports basketball on the global stage. 🏀

They swept Türkiye in the grandfinals, 2-0, and  broke through the team's consecutive fourth-place finishes from previous years to and finally lift the championship trophy 

06 JULY 2026 - Pinay weightlifter Alexsandra Ann Diaz delivers a historic performance, claiming golds and breaking records, at the 2026 IWF World Youth Weightlifting Championships in Cali, Colombia. 

Competing in the Girls' 48kg class, the young weightlifting prodigy captured all three available gold medals while establishing new Youth World standards in the Clean & Jerk (98kg) and Total (175kg) lifts. She lifted 77kg to clinch the gold in the snatch category. 

Filipino chef crowned as Young Chef England 2026

Filipino chef Stephen Raymundo crowned as Young Chef England 2026

Jude Cartalaba
ABS-CBN News
June 26, 2026 

In the high-stakes, pressure-cooker world of global gastronomy, the Philippines has found its newest torchbearer in Stephen Raymundo.

The young Filipino chef, currently part of the team at Claridge's in London, was recently crowned Young Chef England 2026. 

While the accolade places him among the country's most promising culinary talents, his path to the award began far from professional kitchens. He did not study in an elite culinary institute or undergo traditional culinary training. Instead, his passion for cooking started at home at the tender age of 13.

“My mum was the first person who taught me how to cook, and the first dish I ever made was adobo, a Filipino classic,” Raymundo shared, looking back with a smile. 

“From that moment, it became something special between us. Whenever she was not home or was on her way back, she would text me and say, ‘Cook me adobo!’ Looking back now, that was the beginning of my connection with food.”

Today, while he spends his days mastering the rigorous, meticulous techniques of British and French haute cuisine at Claridge’s, his heart remains anchored to his roots. For Raymundo, the ultimate goal is to weave his heritage into his cooking, serving up world-class dishes inflected with a distinct Filipino twist.

Flavor and emotion

For this young chef, cooking is far more than a display of technical skill — it is an exercise in empathy and human connection.

“My philosophy as a chef is to make a memory for the guest,” he explained. “I want my food to be something people remember, not only because of how it tasted, but because of how it made them feel.”

“I love seeing people react to something I have cooked, especially friends and family who do not know I am a chef. Seeing their faces light up and hearing them say, ‘Wow, this is nice’—is one of the most rewarding feelings. Food has the ability to bring back memories, create new ones, and connect people through flavour, smell, and presentation,” Raymundo said.

It is this profound understanding of individuality that sets him apart in a sea of talent.

“You could give three chefs the exact same ingredients, garnish, and brief, and each one would create something completely different,” he noted. “That is what makes food so exciting. Every plate carries the personality, creativity, and perspective of the chef behind it.”

Working in Claridge’s

Raymundo attributed the sharp trajectory of his growth to the unforgiving, elite standard of his current culinary home.

“Much of my development has come through real kitchen experience, especially through the daily trials and standards at Claridge’s. Working there has taught me discipline, consistency, speed, flavour, presentation, and respect for ingredients,” he said.

That rigorous discipline was put to the test at the World Young Chef Young Waiter (YYY) England Finals 2026. Facing down an esteemed, eagle-eyed panel of industry titans — including celebrity chef Calum Franklin, Simon Attridge of Claridge's, Mario Perera of Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Tom Booton, and Roy Ner — Raymundo excelled under immense live pressure.

The competition goes far beyond the plate, evaluating emerging professionals on technical prowess, organization, creativity, teamwork, and mental fortitude.

Established in the UK in 1979, the YYY competition is an internationally revered platform celebrating the finest hospitality talent aged 28 and under. Designed to champion hospitality as a noble vocation, it fosters mentorship and opens global doors for the industry’s future leaders.

Raymundo shared the 2026 England podium with two equally formidable peers: Alex Coward from London's Hide, who claimed Young Waiter of the Year; and Juni Guthrie from Sexy Fish, who secured Young Mixologist of the Year.

Together, this trio will proudly represent England at the upcoming World Finals, where they will face off against the absolute best young hospitality talent on the planet.

As Raymundo prepares to take his place on the global stage, he carries with him the discipline of Claridge's, the prestige of England's culinary elite, and the unforgettable aroma of a mother's home-cooked adobo.

That fascination with the emotional resonance of food drives his daily hustle.

Fil-Canadian Nurse John landed on Forbes magazine's "Top Creators of 2026" list

Filipino-Canadian nurse John makes Forbes' new top creators list

Kristofer Purnell
Philstar Global
26 June 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-Canadian nurse and content creator John Dela Cruz, more popularly known as Nurse John, landed on Forbes magazine's "Top Creators of 2026" list.

Nurse John figured in the No. 28 spots, a good middle finish in between American content creators Marques Brownlee and Tana Mongeau.

Forbes noted that Nurse John scored a 12.97% average engagement from his over 19 million followers. His $7.2 million (PP441 million) earnings garnered him an Entrpreneurship Score of 3.

The magazine mentioned in a write-up how the creator "turned hospital burnout into a multimillion-dollar stand-up career," recalling Nurse John's frontline services during the pandemic and the TikTok videos he posted to cope with his industry's chaos.

The past couple of years saw Nurse John sell out a number of comedy shows — including his "Short Staffed Tour" visiting the Philippines earlier this year — as well as appearances in several comedy events like Netflix Is a Joke and Just for Laughs.

It should come as no surprise that topping Forbes' list is Jimmy Donaldson or MrBeast, the most-followed YouTuber to date.

MrBeast was followed by Dhar Mann and Steven Bartlett, with Markiplier and Rhett & Link rounding out the Top 5.

Other familiar names on the list include Druski, I Show Speed, Mark Rober, Khaby Lame, Ms. Rachel, Jacksepticeye, Steven He, and the D'Amelio sisters Charli and Dixie.

Put together the 50 listed creators have combined earnings worth more than a billion dollars.

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang wins Top Chef season 23

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang wins Top Chef season 23

GMA Lifestyle
11 June 2026

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang strengthened the country's place on the map after she clinched the title of the American television series Top Chef Season 23.

Rhoda wowed the editor-in-chief of Food & Wine magazine, Hunter Lewis, chefs Eric Ferguson, Camari Mick, and Nok Suntaranon, and Top Chef alums Sara Bradley, Joe Flamm, and Stephanie Izard with a four-course meal.

The Filipina chef prepared sweet potato and uni, lugaw, and a grilled eggplant omelet with lap cheong XO and pork belly. She also served caldereta braised in liver instead of dessert to honor her father.

“This is a toast to my dad— caldereta braised in liver and vegetables,” Rhoda told the judges.

She added, “After we talked about all the courses being a 'toast to something,' it was important for me to honor my parents.”

After an excruciating showdown of grit and talent in the kitchen, Rhoda ultimately won against Sherry Cardoso and Laurence Louie.

According to reports, Rhoda will take home $250,000 (P15,366,125.00), a feature in Food & Wine magazine, an appearance at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colo., headline her own exclusive dinner at the historic James Beard House in New York, and have the opportunity to present at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago.