From Shondaland and Jess Brownell, BRIDGERTON returns for a fairy-tale inspired fourth season. Bohemian second son Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) refuses to settle down, despite pleas to the contrary from matriarch Lady Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell). Until — at Violet’s masquerade ball, Benedict is awestruck by a masked, mysterious Lady in Silver. With the reluctant help of his sister Eloise (Claudia Jessie), Benedict sets out in society to uncover the young lady’s identity. But in fact, his heart’s desire is not in society at all — she is a resourceful maid called Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), working for the formidable Lady of the house, Araminta Gun (Katie Leung).
Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek and Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton in Bridgerton Season 4. PHOTO BY LIAM DANIEL
When fate brings Benedict and Sophie back together, Benedict wrestles between the reality of his affection for this intriguing maid and the fantasy of the Lady in Silver — unaware that they are the same person. Will Benedict’s inability to see these women as one in the same derail the undeniable spark between him and Sophie? And can love truly conquer anything — even a cross-class connection forbidden by society?
Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek in Bridgerton Season 4.
PHOTO BY LIAM DANIEL
Inspiring Benedict’s journey are the marriages of his siblings —including Francesca (Hannah Dodd) to John Stirling (Victor Alli), and Colin (Luke Newton) to Penelope (Nicola Coughlan), who faces new challenges as a now public gossip columnist.
The 2026 Oscar nominations have officially been unveiled, setting the stage for Hollywood’s biggest night just weeks ahead of the ceremony. Hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second consecutive year, the Academy Awards will air live on Sunday, March 15, from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, streaming on ABC and Hulu starting at 4 p.m. PT.
Photo credit: Warner Bros.
Sinners Dominates the Nominations Race
This year, Ryan Coogler’s Sinners stole the spotlight by making history as the most-nominated film of all time with 16 nominations. The film surpasses a pantheon of previously dominant titles—All About Eve, La La Land, and Titanic—each of which had held the record with 14 nods. The historic achievement places Sinners in a rarefied position among Oscar immortals and signals a transformative moment for Coogler’s acclaimed project.
Photo credit: Warner Bros.
A Snapshot of the Nods
For a greater snapshot, here is the full list of the formidable names and works in contention:
Best Picture
Bugonia (Focus Features)
F1 (Apple)
Frankenstein (Netflix)
Hamnet (Focus Features)
Marty Supreme (A24)
One Battle After Another (Warner Bros.)
The Secret Agent (Neon)
Sentimental Value (Neon)
Sinners (Warner Bros.)
Train Dreams (Netflix)
Best Director
Chloe Zhao, Hamnet
Josh Safdie, Marty Supreme
Paul Thomas Anderson, One Battle After Another
Joachim Trier, Sentimental Value
Ryan Coogler, Sinners
Best Actor
Timothee Chalamet, Marty Supreme
Leonardo DiCaprio, One Battle After Another
Ethan Hawke, Blue Moon
Michael B. Jordan, Sinners
Wagner Moura, The Secret Agent
Best Actress
Jessie Buckley, Hamnet
Rose Byrne, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
Kate Hudson, Song Sung Blue
Renate Reinsve, Sentimental Value
Emma Stone, Bugonia
Best Supporting Actor
Benicio Del Toro, One Battle After Another
Jacob Elordi, Frankenstein
Delroy Lindo, Sinners
Sean Penn, One Battle After Another
Stellan Skarsgård, Sentimental Value
Best Supporting Actress
Elle Fanning, Sentimental Value
Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Sentimental Value
Amy Madigan, Weapons
Wunmi Mosaku, Sinners
Teyana Taylor, One Battle After Another
Best Adapted Screenplay
Will Tracy, Bugonia
Guillermo del Toro, Frankenstein
Chloé Zhao & Maggie O’Farrell, Hamnet
Paul Thomas Anderson, One Battle After Another
Clint Bentley & Greg Kwedar, Train Dreams
Best Original Screenplay
Robert Kaplow, Blue Moon
Jafar Panahi & Script Collaborators, It Was Just an Accident
Ronald Bronstein & Josh Safdie, Marty Supreme
Joachim Trier & Eskil Vogt, Sentimental Value
Ryan Coogler, Sinners
Best Animated Feature
Arco
Elio
KPop Demon Hunters
Little Amélie or the Character of Rain
Zootopia 2
Best International Feature
The Secret Agent
It Was Just an Accident
Sentimental Value
Sirât
The Voice of Hind Rajab
Best Documentary Feature
The Alabama Solution
Come See Me in the Good Light
Cutting Through Rocks
Mr. Nobody Against Putin
The Perfect Neighbor
Best Animated Short
Butterfly
Forevergreen
The Girl Who Cried Pearls
Retirement Plan
The Three Sisters
Best Casting
Hamnet
Marty Supreme
One Battle After Another
The Secret Agent
Sinners
Best Cinematography
Frankenstein
Marty Supreme
One Battle After Another
Sentimental Value
Sinners
Best Costume Design
Avatar: Fire and Ash
Frankenstein
Hamnet
Marty Supreme
Sinners
Best Documentary Short
All the Empty Rooms
Armed Only With a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud
Children No More: “Were and Are Gone”
The Devil Is Busy
Perfectly a Strangeness
Best Film Editing
Stephen Mirrione, F1
Ronald Bronstein & Josh Safdie, Marty Supreme
Andy Jurgensen, One Battle After Another
Olivier Bugge Coutté, Sentimental Value
Michael Shawver, Sinners
Best Live-Action Short
Butcher’s Stain
A Friend of Dorothy
Jane Austen’s Period Drama
The Singers
Two People Exchanging Saliva
Best Makeup and Hairstyling
Frankenstein
Kokuho
Sinners
The Smashing Machine
The Ugly Stepsister
Best Original Score
Bugonia
Frankenstein
Hamnet
One Battle After Another
Sinners
Best Original Song
“Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless
“Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters
“I Lied To You” from Sinners
“Sweet Dreams of Joy” from Viva Verdi!
“Train Dreams” from Train Dreams
Best Production Design
Tamara Deverell, Frankenstein
Fiona Crombie, Hamnet
Jack Fisk, Marty Supreme
Florencia Martin, One Battle After Another
Hannah Beachler; Set Decoration: Monique Champagne, Sinners
“For all who are in love, and all who are meant to love.” Pavane officially premieres on February 20, with the teaser trailer and poster unveiled today. From director Lee Jong-pil (Escape, Samjin Company English Class), the film follows three young people who have closed off their hearts… but slowly find light through one another, ultimately learning to face life and love again. Ko A‑sung, Byun Yo‑han, and Moon Sang‑min lead the cast, bringing warmth, humor, and chemistry to a story about love and friendship.
The teaser trailer introduces three people carrying private wounds: Mi-jeong (Ko A‑sung) keeps her distance from society’s judgmental gaze; Yo‑han (Byun Yo‑han) is a free spirit with a passion for rock music; and Gyeong-rok (Moon Sang‑min) has traded dreams for the practical demands of life. The trio cross paths for the first time in a department store underground parking lot, where Gyeong-rok is immediately drawn to the mysterious Mi-jeong. Yo‑han stokes that curiosity, sharing what he knows about her and gently playing matchmaker. As Yo‑han nudges them closer with humor and easy charm, Mi-jeong and Gyeong-rok begin to notice each other in new ways. The trailer captures the flutter of first love between the two, and the warm, steady friendship that forms among all three — small moments of care and laughter blooming at the edges of a noisy world.
The striking teaser poster shows Mi-jeong and Gyeong-rok beneath an aurora-lit sky, with the film’s themes of yearning, renewal, and connection echoing in its tagline.
With its delicate emotional touch and hopeful tone, Pavane asks what it takes to love again after life has hardened the heart. Pavane premieres on February 20, only on Netflix.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) stands as a cornerstone of public service in the Philippines. Guided by its enduring commitment to be a “Matino, Mahusay, at Maaasahang Kagawaran” (A Department that is Honest, Competent, and Trustworthy), the DILG continues to deliver quality leadership and responsive service to the nation. This article explores how the DILG translates its values into actionable strategies, most prominently through its Strategic Plan 2023–2028, which charts a transformative course for the department and its attached agencies, with a focus on Local Government Units (LGUs) and the communities they serve.
Core Vision: Matino, Mahusay, at Maaasahang Kagawaran
Matino (Honest and Upright): Upholding integrity in governance, ensuring transparent processes, and fostering accountability at all levels of local administration.
Mahusay (Competent and Excellent): Strengthening technical capacity, leadership, and efficiency to deliver public services that meet and exceed expectations.
Maaasahan (Trustworthy and Dependable): Building public trust through consistent performance, reliable delivery of services, and responsive governance.
These guiding principles shape the DILG’s approach to policy design, program implementation, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that reform efforts are grounded in ethical governance and tangible outcomes for citizens.
Driving Public Service Forward: The DILG’s Mission and Strategic Path (2023–2028)
The Strategic Plan 2023–2028 lays out a clear orientation toward results-driven governance, with emphasis on local empowerment, resilience, and inclusive development. Key themes include:
Strengthening Local Governance: Enhancing the capacity of LGUs to deliver essential services, manage resources prudently, and plan for sustainable growth. This involves capacity-building programs, performance-based incentives, and improved local governance frameworks.
People-Centered Service Delivery: Prioritizing citizen experience and accessibility in public service, with streamlined processes, digitalization where appropriate, and responsive feedback mechanisms to address concerns promptly.
Good Governance and Accountability: Institutionalizing transparency, anti-corruption measures, and robust oversight to maintain public trust and ensure responsible stewardship of public resources.
Resilience and Adaptation: Preparing communities to respond to hazards and shocks, integrating disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation into local planning, and reinforcing public safety at the community level.
Inclusive Growth and Social Development: Ensuring that marginalized groups are considered in policy design and that services reach underserved areas, promoting equity in access to opportunities and resources.
How the Plan Impacts LGUs and Communities
Capacity Building: The plan prioritizes training and professional development for LGU staff and local officials, equipping them with modern governance skills, data-driven decision-making, and ethical leadership.
Resource Management: Enhanced financial management, auditing, and procurement standards help LGUs use public funds more effectively, reducing waste and increasing service quality.
Service Modernization: Digitalization of core processes (e-governance, online permits, streamlined licensing) reduces red tape and accelerates service delivery to citizens.
Disaster Resilience: Local risk assessments, early warning systems, and community-based adaptation initiatives strengthen resilience against natural hazards.
Citizen Engagement: Mechanisms for feedback, participatory planning, and transparent reporting empower citizens to collaborate with local government in policy and project implementation.
Accessing the Strategic Plan
For readers seeking detailed insights, the DILG Strategic Plan 2023–2028 is available online. It provides a comprehensive overview of objectives, programs, performance indicators, and implementation milestones that guide the Department and its attached agencies over the five-year horizon.
Note: The link above contains the official document and related resources. If the URL changes over time, you can navigate to the DILG’s official website and locate the Strategic Plan under the “Reports and Resources” section.
Why This Plan Matters
For Citizens:** The plan translates into services that are more accessible, reliable, and responsive to local needs. It aims to reduce bureaucratic friction and bring public governance closer to the people.
For Local Governments: It provides a clear framework for capacity-building, accountability, and sustainable development, enabling LGUs to design and implement programs that yield measurable outcomes.
For the Nation: By strengthening local governance, the Philippines can achieve more resilient communities, improved public safety, and inclusive growth that leaves no sector behind.
Looking Ahead
The DILG’s commitment to being Matino, Mahusay, at Maaasahang reflects a sustained effort to elevate public service standards across all local governance levels. The Strategic Plan 2023–2028 serves as a blueprint for transforming local governance into a more capable, transparent, and citizen-centered system. As LGUs implement the plan’s initiatives, citizens can anticipate more efficient services, better governance practices, and stronger communities prepared to meet the challenges of a dynamic era.
If you have specific questions about the plan’s programs, indicators, or how to engage with LGU initiatives in your area, I’m happy to help explore those details.
From L–R: Director of Finance Jennifer Labita, Executive Chef Gilbert Musngi, Executive Housekeeper Aaron Bandelaria, General Manager Richard Masselin, Human Resources Director Roy Aguba, and Director of Sales and Marketing Kathy Salenga.
Manila, Philippines – January 19, 2026 – The World’s Gathering place at the Heart of Manila, Sheraton Manila Bay has been awarded its Green Globe certification in recognition of its commitment to sustainable management and responsible operations. The certification marks a significant milestone for the iconic hotel in located in Malate, Manila reinforcing its dedication to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability in the heart of the capital.
The Green Globe certification is an internationally recognized standard in the sustainable tourism sector, covering hotels, resorts, and tourism-related organizations worldwide. For Sheraton Manila Bay, the achievement reflects years of consistent effort to embed sustainability into daily operations while delivering elevated guest experiences.
Sheraton Manila Bay is led by General Manager Richard Masselin, who has spearheaded many of the property’s environmental initiatives through strategic infrastructure improvements, resource optimization, and compliance with global sustainability benchmarks.
Leadership on Sustainability
“Green Globe strengthens our desire to operate responsibly everyday. Sustainability guides our decisions, shapes our guest experience, and defines our behaviors. We bring people together and believe in the collective power to change the world for the better”, says General Manager, Richard Masselin on Sheraton Manila Bay’s commitment to sustainability, future initiatives, and continued integration of responsible practices into guest experience, operations, and community engagement.
Sustainable Management and Operations
Since the strengthening of its sustainability roadmap, Sheraton Manila Bay has implemented a comprehensive Sustainability Management Plan (SMP), overseen by a cross-functional Green Team composed of representatives from key departments. The program ensures that environmental responsibility is embedded across engineering, housekeeping, food and beverage, events, and guest services.
Under the direction of Director of Engineering Anthony Estacio, the hotel has prioritized efficiency, conservation, and responsible sourcing across its facilities and operations, aligning with Marriott International’s global sustainability goals.
Energy, Water, and Waste Management
Resource management is a key operational focus at Sheraton Manila Bay. Energy-saving initiatives include the extensive use of LED and high-efficiency lighting in guest corridors, function spaces, and public areas, as well as conservation plans on selected back-of-house and service areas to minimize unnecessary power consumption.
Waste management strategies are designed to significantly reduce landfill contributions. The hotel follows green procurement practices, implements waste segregation, and supports recycling and food waste minimization initiatives across all departments. Sustainable partnerships and donation programs further extend the hotel’s efforts to responsibly manage operational waste.
Culinary with a Sustainable Focus
Sheraton Manila Bay’s culinary team integrates sustainability into menu development and daily kitchen operations. In line with Marriott International’s Serve 360 program, the hotel emphasizes responsible sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and waste reduction practices across all food and beverage outlets.
Menus are designed to highlight thoughtfully sourced ingredients while minimizing excess production. The culinary team also supports local suppliers and producers whenever possible, strengthening community partnerships and promoting sustainable food ecosystems.
Environmental Programs and Advocacy
Environmental responsibility remains a core pillar of Sheraton Manila Bay’s long-term strategy. The hotel actively explores initiatives that support conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental awareness among both guests and associates. These efforts are guided by measurable goals and continuous improvement practices under the hotel’s sustainability framework.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond environmental stewardship, Sheraton Manila Bay continues to champion social responsibility through meaningful community engagement. The hotel actively participates in Marriott Worldwide Business Councils Philippines initiatives, supporting programs that benefit children, education, and underserved communities. Just last November 2025, the hotel hosted it’s 3rd Art Auction and Benefit Dinner for the benefit of Operation Smile PH.
Associates regularly take part in outreach programs, donation drives, and volunteer efforts, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to being not only a destination for travelers, but also a responsible corporate citizen in Manila.
Moving Forward
With its Green Globe certification awarded on January 6, Sheraton Manila Bay reaffirms its role as a leader in responsible hospitality in the Philippines. Guided by the leadership of General Manager Richard Masselin, the hotel continues to advance sustainability through innovation, operational excellence, and community partnerships.
Further information on Sheraton Manila Bay’s sustainability initiatives is available through the hotel’s Sustainability Management Plan available for viewing at
A new light shines on the story of Love Through a Prism.
Chilli Beans. releases their latest single “star flower”, the official theme for Netflix’s original series Love Through a Prism. Written specifically for the show, the song translates the anime’s many forms of “light” – the light of dreams, the glow discovered in one another, and the radiance painted on a canvas – into a vivid musical experience. The track mirrors the series’ heartfelt and imaginative world, fusing Chilli Beans.’s authentic musicality with a subtle, emotional depth.
Reflecting on the song, Chilli Beans. shared:
“This song captures the light we felt from the series. The light of dreams, the light we sense in each other, the light that appears on a blank canvas. When writing the lyrics, Lili thought back on the day’s moments and the presence of Kit, letting these emotions settle into the air through her words. We’re truly honored to contribute to a story that so purely cherishes people and dreams – please embrace it with all your love alongside the anime.”
With “star flower”, Chilli Beans. continues to illuminate their own musical journey, blending heartfelt storytelling with vibrant, genre-defying sound. As the band steps into 2026 with new music and their upcoming “good days tour”, fans can expect more moments of brilliance, emotion, and connection – a reminder that every story, every dream, and every light is meant to be shared.
About Chilli Beans.
A three-piece band consisting of Moto (Vo), Maika (Ba & Vo), and Lily (Gt & Vo). Formed in 2019, the trio is rooted primarily in pop music. Each member possesses strong vocal ability and takes part in songwriting, composing, arranging, and even the creative direction themselves, building a rich, genre-defying “Chilli Beans. world.” Known for emotionally resonant, free-spirited songs and dynamic live performances, the band has steadily gained both domestic and international fans.
In 2024, Chilli Beans. sold out their first solo performance at Japan’s Budokan, and their 2026 “good days tour” promises to continue their streak of unforgettable live shows.
EXO has unleashed a high-octane music video for its title track, “Crown,” signaling a triumphant full-circle return for the global K-pop titans. The release arrives as the group marks a significant milestone—its first full-group comeback in several years with the highly anticipated eighth studio album, REVERXE.
A Bold new sound for a seasoned group
“Crown” is described as a hard-hitting dance track that fuses diverse sonic elements to create an adrenaline-fueled anthem. The track blends Atlanta trap drums with heavy metal guitar riffs and EDM synths, delivering a genre-blending soundscape that pushes EXO into new sonic territory while maintaining the high-energy performance DNA fans have come to expect.
The accompanying music video for “Crown” reinforces the track’s ferocity and ambition, pairing sharp choreography with striking visuals that underscore EXO’s continued evolution as artists.
A storied trajectory, a resurgent return
Since debuting in 2012, EXO has cemented its status as a global powerhouse in pop music. Their catalogue includes mega-hits such as “Growl,” “Monster,” and “Love Shot,” several of which helped define the gold standard for modern K-pop production and performance.
REVERXE marks a major milestone for the group, representing their formal and full comeback as a complete unit after a period of selective releases and member-focused projects. The album’s release on January 19 positioned EXO firmly back on the world stage as they released it across major music platforms worldwide.
Immediate global impact
REVERXE rapidly made its presence felt on charts around the world:
The album topped the iTunes Top Albums chart in 35 countries and regions, including the United States, Brazil, Chile, and Japan.
In China, REVERXE achieved No. 1 on QQ Music’s digital album sales chart and earned Double Platinum certification, surpassing 2 million yuan in sales.
It also dominated Tencent Music’s integrated K-pop chart, sweeping positions from No. 1 through No. 9.
The music video for “Crown” already amassed 23 million views in just one day.
These early numbers underscore EXO’s enduring global pull and the excitement surrounding their full-group return.
What’s next for EXO?
With REVERXE’s strong start, fans can anticipate a full promotional cycle across global stages, award shows, and live performances. The blend of hard-hitting production, dynamic choreography, and the expansive reach of EXO’s fanbase suggests that the group will continue to push boundaries while staying true to the vital elements that have sustained their career for over a decade.
As the year unfolds, music lovers will be watching closely to see how the concept and sound of REVERXE develop across additional tracks, visual content, and live performances. For now, EXO’s “Crown” video stands as a bold declaration: the group remains at the forefront of global pop, ready to crown a new era of artistry and ambition.
