Lionsgate Play Unveils an Exciting October Lineup Packed with Spooks, Action, and Thrills

Spooky season is upon us, so you know what that means: it’s time to get cozy indoors and embrace all things spine-chilling and thrilling. And that’s exactly what Lionsgate Play’s October roster has in store. From heart-pounding horror to electrifying action sequences to even tear jerking romance movies, Lionsgate Play is your one-stop-shop for entertainment. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for these top movie marathon picks for October!

 

Exclusive to Lionsgate Play

 

Movie Premiere

 

Kandahar (Film) - Release Date: October 20, 2023

 

Gerard Butler stars in American action film Kandahar as Tom Harris, a CIA operative stranded in Afghanistan after failing a covert mission and exposing his identity. With enemy elite special forces on his tail, Harris teams up with his Afghan translator in a race against time to reach the extraction point in Kandahar, Afghanistan. With a script written by Mitchell LaFortune, a former military intelligence officer, and scenes entirely shot in Saudi Arabia's Al-Ula and Jeddah so viewers can expect stunning cinematography and true-to-life scenes. 

 

More exciting content this month

 

Weeds (Series) (Box Set) - Release Date: October 13, 2023

 

After her husband’s unexpected death, widowed suburbanite Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker) turns to dealing marijuana to support her family and maintain her lifestyle. Pretty soon she finds out just how addicted her whole neighborhood really is. Throughout the seasons, the audience gets face to face with the dark undercurrent of Nancy’s choices, forcing her to make parenting decisions many would disagree with. 

 

Transcendence (Film) - Release Date: October 13, 2023

 

Dying computer genius Dr. Will Caster (Johnny Depp) uploads his consciousness into a computer where it grows into a powerful and dangerous artificial intelligence. In his sentient form, Caster begins to see humanity as a threat and makes plans to build a technological utopia and create a new world order. His wife, Evelyn (Rebecca Hall), and his best friend, fellow scientist Max (Paul Bettany), have to find a way to destroy Caster’s consciousness before it’s too late.

 

P.S. I Love You - Release Date: October 20, 2023

 

In the mood for feelings? The 2007 romcom classic PS. I Love You is the ultimate tale of love and loss. Holly (Hillary Swank) finds her world turned upside down when her husband, Gerry (Gerard Butler), succumbs to a brain tumor. On her 30th birthday, she receives a series of 10 letters Gerry wrote while he was in the hospital to help ease her pain and encourage her to start a new life.

 

Halloween Treats

 

Saw 1-6 (Film) - Release Date: October 6, 2023

 

It’s never too early for a Halloween marathon. As the spooky season rolls in, kick things off with a chilling marathon of the cult classic Saw franchise. Follow the Jigsaw Killer a.k.a John Kramer (Tobin Bell) as he traps his victims in elaborate and deadly games in the name of redemption. 

 

Hell on the Border (Film) - Release Date: October 13, 2023

 

This movie which was set in Arkansas in 1875 is based on the true life story of Bass Reeves (David Gyasi) who became the first African-American deputy U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi River. Tasked with hunting down a deadly outlaw named Bob Dozier (Frank Grillo), Reeves goes on a hunt to relentlessly pursue one of the most dangerous criminals in Arkansas Territory.

 

Cabin in the Woods (Film) - Release Date: October 27, 2023

 

Drew Goddard’s directorial debut remains to be one of the most unique and subversive horror films ever made. A small group of college students go for a break at a remote forest cabin where they encounter monsters and experience horrors orchestrated by engineers in an underground laboratory. The film stars Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams, Richard Jenkins, and Bradley Whitford.

 

Jessabelle (Film) - Release Date: October 27, 2023

 

Jessie Laurent (Sarah Snook) returns to her childhood home in Louisiana to recover from a car accident that killed her fiance and unborn child. She discovers a box with tape recordings of her deceased mother (Joelle Carter) warning her about being careful of an unwanted presence. Soon, Jessie begins to have chilling encounters with a gaunt black-haired woman who seems to be hell-bent on tormenting her. Jessie enlists the help of her highschool friend Preston (Mark Webber) to get to the bottom of the mystery.

 

Nurse 3D (Film) - Release Date: October 27, 2023

 

Abby Russell (Paz de la Huerta) is a nurse by day and a serial killer by night, dedicating her life to exposing and killing men who cheat on their partners. Russell develops an unhealthy obsession with Danni Rodgers (Katrina Bowden), a new nurse whom she mentored when Danni was still a student. When Danni rejects her advances and suspects her for the string of murders in their city, Abby throws her feelings out the window and takes matters into her own hands.

 

Start October with a bang and Tune into Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home to watch all these exciting premieres this October.

Airbnb reveals the significant contribution of Airbnb to the Philippines’ tourism sector

  

New research from Oxford Economics found Airbnb is an important pillar of the Philippines’s tourism industry, with its activities contributing USD$840 million (45.7 million pesos) to Gross Domestic Product and supporting almost 103,800 jobs in the Philippines in 2022* alone.  

 

The report, commissioned by Airbnb, found the platform played a crucial role in the Philippines tourism industry’s contribution to GDP and employment. 

 

The report also highlighted the powerful multiplier effect Airbnb guest spending has within local communities. In 2022*, Airbnb guests spent a total of USD$876 million (47.7 million pesos) in the Philippines in areas like purchases in restaurants, retail stores, and on transportation.

It details the contribution made by Airbnb guests to domestic tourism across the nation. In 2022*, domestic Airbnb guest spending totalled USD$445 million (24.2 million pesos). 

 

The report also explores two profound changes in travel behaviour since the pandemic: the dispersal of tourism away from urban areas, and long-term stays driven by the emergence of flexible work arrangements.

 

James Lambert, Director for Economic Consulting in Asia for Oxford Economics said, Airbnb has clearly played a major role in the resilience and rebirth of the Philippines travel and tourism sector in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

“Airbnb has been at the heart of some of the trends reshaping the nation’s travel and tourism industry, including the shift in travel away from cities and towards more rural communities, and the increase in demand for long-stay trips, exemplified by the live and work anywhere phenomenon, Lambert said.

 

Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan said, “The economic contribution to both GDP and jobs driven by travel on Airbnb in the Philippines has created powerful economic ripple effects that have enabled the growth of local businesses, such as shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes — which are often central to how travellers experience a destination — and created job opportunities for the locals.”

 

“The growth of the long-term stays segment since 2020 — enabled by flexible work policies and supported by Airbnb’s Live and Work Anywhere program — is helping destinations attract guests who stay longer and spend more per trip.

 

“Travel is now more dispersed, and so the economic benefits are being shared across more destinations, enabling a valuable economic contribution to rural and regional areas. This dispersal is being driven by Hosts on Airbnb and in turn creating economic opportunities for various communities. 

 

“As destinations across the Philippines continue to recover, we are committed to partnering with governments and communities to rebuild their tourism economies in a way that is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable.”

*This report presents results for the twelve month period up to and including March 2023, referred to as 2022*, which represents the first full year after the reopening of international travel. Prevailing exchange rates at the time of study were applied, using proprietary data from Oxford Economics.

Engaging in running contributes to improved sleep quality and overall restfulness

Did you know that running has been proven to make your brain literally grow by aiding in the creation of new brain cells? This helps improve a person’s overall cognitive function and reduce cognitive decline when done regularly. Aside from this, there’s a plethora of other health benefits that you can enjoy when you start lacing your shoes and getting those steps in every day. Read along to know more!

 

Strengthens bones and muscles

Because it’s a high impact exercise, running helps improve bone health and can increase bone density. The stress applied to your legs, pelvis, and spine whenever you run allows the bones to repair and strengthen themselves. Similarly, running also helps build muscles in the lower body, particularly the glutes, thighs, and calves. 

 

With strong bones and muscles, you are more protected from injuries plus your balance, coordination, and flexibility are also improved.

Reduces risk of chronic diseases

Various studies have already proven that regular physical activity like running can prevent and/or better manage chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol that lead to heart diseases as well as diabetes and many forms of cancer. Together with the right diet and healthy lifestyle choices, running can improve the quality of your life so you can be at your best every day, not just for yourself but for your family as well.

 

Enhances mental well-being

Do you ever notice how your mood always seems to be much better after a good workout? It’s the endorphins and serotonin working their magic! Aside from improved mood, running also works like meditation in the sense that it can give you peace of mind and allow you to stay in the present, helping you manage and relieve the stresses of daily life. So the next time you feel overwhelmed or anxious, consider going for a run for an instant pick-me-up.

 

Interestingly, adopting running in your day-to-day routine enables you to improve other aspects of your health and wellness, including what you eat, how many hours you sleep at night, setting goals, and taking control of your time. This holistic approach is what Southstar Drug and Maxicare aim to promote through Run for Wellness.

 

This month, over 1,700 runners took the challenge of embracing the first step in their journey toward their best life by joining the annual leg of Run for Wellness held at the Naga City Hall Grounds, Naga City. The starting line of the run saw participants composed of experienced runners and beginners, families and barkadas, and people from all ages and walks of life.

 

In its 12th year, Run for Wellness was held jointly by Southstar Drug and Maxicare to kick off their pioneering wellness initiative. A Metro Manila leg was also launched, which took place last August  at UP Diliman, Quezon City.

 

Southstar Drug and Maxicare, as champions of health and wellness, have partnered to support consumers in their journey toward a healthier and happier life. By offering an extensive selection of health essentials and world-class health services, they aim to be reliable companions, "Kasama sa Best Life," for Filipinos. 

 

Visit southstardrug.com.ph and maxicare.com.ph to know more. 

Y.O.U Beauty and Mr. Tadahiro Shimada Collaborate to Create a Skincare Series Tailored for Oily and Sensitive Skin Types

 

The beauty of Asian skin is as diverse as the continent itself. Genetics and climate play a huge role in how the skin behaves and responds. Only by understanding these factors can beauty brands understand the importance of tailor-fitting and formulating products that address the unique requirements of Asian skin.

From the humid tropical regions of Southeast Asia to the cold, dry climate of Northeast Asia, the wide expanse of the Asian continent is home to more than half of the world’s population– bringing with them incredible beauty and diversity.

For international beauty brand, Y.O.U Beauty, taking care of Asian skin by formulating products tailored and suited for the various needs has been its goal from day one. This is why, together with renowned Japanese cosmetic research and development expert and former R&D Director of Shiseido Global Tadahiro Shimada, Y.O.U Beauty created the Radiance Glow–a skincare series for those with oily, combination and sensitive skin.

 

“The Radiance Glow series are products we developed for people with oily, combination, and sensitive skin to deliver a gentle-yet-effective brightening solution and help them achieve that healthy glass skin,” said Mike Cabbo, Y.O.U Beauty Brand Manager for the Philippines. “At

Y.O.U Beauty, we believe in providing effective and accessible beauty products that will allow our customers to be as beautiful as they feel. We are honored to have worked with Mr. Shimada for our new product line as his decades-long expertise and knowledge about Asian skincare and beauty allowed us to create the Radiance Glow series.”

 

Made for the Sensitive Skin

Y.O.U Beauty’s Radiance Glow line was formulated in Japan and involves five products that will get you that healthy glass skin glow in as early as 10 Days.

 

“Asian skin is more prone to sensitivity due to a thinner stratum corneum–making it easily irritated due to harsh chemical ingredients in skincare,” Mike explained. “Oily, combination, and sensitive skin are common skin types in Asia, and its diverse weather conditions, as well as genetics, contribute to how our skin behaves and interacts with the ingredients we put on our face. This is why it’s vital for any beauty and personal care players to understand Asian skin conditions and formulate products that will address these concerns.”

 

Every product in the Radiance Glow line is formulated with the new Mizu Glow Technology which allows for mild and high-efficiency skin brightening. It contains Sakura extract which helps reduce melanin production for a lighter complexion while promoting softer & smoother skin, 99% pure Niacinamide that minimize pores and C-three Complex that is 7x more brightening than 10% Vitamin C.

Steps for getting that Radiant Glow

Ready for that radiant glow? Here’s how Y.O.U Beauty’s Radiance Glow line can help you achieve your beauty goals:

 

Cleanse

A great skincare routine starts with a clean face. Use the gentle-yet-powerful Radiance Glow Purifying Facial Foam (P299) to effectively cleanse and brighten your complexion without stripping your skin barrier. The facial foam contains Amino Acids to maintain skin moisture and reduce that skin-tightening feeling after cleansing.

 

Prep

Prep your skin to ensure that the products will reach their maximum effectivity with the Radiance Glow Toner Essence (P329). It’s supercharged with C-three Complex, Niacinamide, Sakura Extract, and Panthenol to help brighten the complexion and retain moisture for visibly plumper and glowing skin. Plus, it’s lightweight and does not leave your skin feeling sticky.

 

Boost

Take that step towards glowing glass skin with the Radiance Glow Illuminating Serum (P499). Formulated with multiple brightening actives including C-three Complex, Niacinamide, and Sakura Extract, this lightweight serum reduces skin dullness for healthy glowing skin. It also contains Bisabolol to help calm the skin and strengthen the skin barrier which is great for those days when your skin is breaking out or is being extra sensitive.

 

Protect + Repair

Lock in all the goodness with the Radiance Glow Advanced Day Cream (P469) and the Radiance Glow Active Night Gel (P469). Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with the Radiance Glow Advanced Day Cream, a lightweight, non-greasy cream equipped with sunscreen agents and enriched with C-three Complex, Niacinamide, Sakura Extract, and Bisabolol to effectively brighten and calm skin so you can get that healthy, glowing complexion.

 

End your day with the Radiance Glow Active Night Gel that’s infused with lavender for that extra relaxing effect. It also contains C-three Complex, Niacinamide, Sakura Extract, and Panthenol so you wake up with radiant and supple skin in the morning.

 

The key to getting that radiant, glowing skin lies in ensuring that you’re using the product suited for your skin type and needs. The Radiance Glow Series is available in YOU Beauty official Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop or visit select Watsons, SM Beauty, Robinsons Department Stores, Gaisano Capital Group, Prince Retail Group, KCC, Mart One and The Landmark. Be in the loop and learn about the newest product offerings and deals by following @youbeauty_ph on Instagram and TikTok, and youbeautyph on Facebook.

 

Exploring the Serene Wellness Culture of Toyama and Gifu, Japan

When the hustle and bustle gets to be too much and you need an escape from your everyday life, take a trip to Japan! Rest and recharge in the healing, mineral-enriched waters of its various spas right before the rush of the holiday season. Wellness is deeply rooted in Japan’s culture such that onsens or hot spring baths are available all over! 

 

While there are popular spots for onsens like Hakone that get a lot of attention, some travellers might be looking for a true escape from everything. When it comes to wellness, these choices in Toyama and Gifu prefectures each have their own unique charm.

 

Getting to Toyama and Gifu is easier than ever! These prefectures are located in the Chubu region. Often referred to as the "Heart of Japan," the Chubu region is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Japanese Alps that stretch across both Toyama and Gifu prefectures. This region also serves as a vital transportation hub, connecting major cities like Tokyo and Osaka through its extensive network of highways and railways.

 

Toyama is connected to Tokyo via the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen. It will take around 2 hours and costs approximately 12,500 yen or approximately PhP 4,800. It’s fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokuriku Arch Pass. Gifu on the other hand is easily accessible by JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Here are some excellent choices for a getaway:

 

Toyama Prefecture

 

Toyama is a seaside prefecture in Japan and is home to some of the most private and picturesque onsens in the country. Toyama’s spas are ideal if you are seeking tranquil contemplation and quiet.

1. Unazuki Onsen

 

Unazuki Onsen is on the way to Japan’s tallest dam, the Kurobe Dam. To get to the dam, you will need to take a scenic train ride into the lushly forested gorge. Unazuki is at one of the first stops on the line. The view is beautiful and you can also taste locally brewed beer made with water from Kurobe.

 

2. Himi Hot Spring Village

 

Himi Hot Spring Village is a coastal town where you can see the Tateyama mountain range in the distance, almost as if it's floating on the bay. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood while also relaxing in the “spa of beauty” which will rejuvenate your body.

 

3. Omaki Hot Spring

 

Omaki Hot Spring is the perfect hidden gem if you truly want to get away from it all. Only accessible by boat, this unique isolated resort is rustic and surrounded by woods. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a tanuki–a Japanese raccoon dog.

 

Gifu Prefecture

 

Most people looking for traditional Japanese architecture and historical sites will think of Kyoto, but awaiting discovery is Gifu, an area steeped in tradition. Great warlords have fought over this land and their battles have forged the paths of Japanese history. 

 

Gifu is tucked away in the scenic Japanese Alps. There are several onsens to choose from in this area with a wide range of experiences for curious travellers.

 

1. Gero Onsen

 

At Gero Onsen, the alkaline water is good for blood circulation and battling fatigue, and also leaves your skin silky smooth. Gero has unique architecture and charming streets. It’s a great addition to your Instagram stories, especially at night when the lights come on. 

 

2. Yamashiro Onsen

 

Yamashiro Onsen is a hot spring town with public bathhouses. The water here is good for the joints, skin disease, and digestion problems. Be sure not to miss the “ko-soyu” or the “old public bathhouse”. It's a Meiji period-style building and is a popular draw.

 

3. Okuhida Onsen 

 

Okuhida is actually a collection of over a hundred open-air pools. It’s located in the Japanese Alps so the view is gorgeous. Also, the town comes alive in the winter with folk festivals and ice shows so the colder months are the ideal time to visit.

 

If you are coming to Japan for a dose of traditional wellness, then consider staying at a Ryokan. Ryokans are inns that provide a true Japanese experience. They feature old-fashioned accommodations meaning sleeping on tatami mats and feasting on a meticulously prepared, multi-course kaiseki dinner. It’s an experience you can’t get anywhere else.

 

The daily grind can be a lot to deal with, especially as we get to the busy “ber-months”, but if you pause once in a while, it becomes much easier to find motivation. Take a break and re-center yourself while also rejuvenating your body in a Japanese onsen. Any of these recommendations could be your ideal place to recharge with a taste of wellness.

 

For more downloadable photos and videos of Japan's beautiful and exciting tourist attractions, you may visit the Japan Online Media Center (JOMC) (http://business.jnto.go.jp/). 

Jollibee and Warner Bros. Join Forces for an Epic 100th Anniversary Mashup in the Latest Jollibee Kids Meal

Your kids will definitely feel the excitement when they experience a new mashup of epic proportions in Jollibee and Warner Bros.’ (WB) 100th Anniversary Mash-Up Collection Jollibee Kids Meal!

 

This special collaboration between Jollibee and WB offers kids six fun and collectible toys featuring Bugs and Lola Bunny cosplaying as popular DC Comics superheroes and iconic WB cartoons! 

 

You can get Superman Bugs Bunny, who has a special base that allows him to fly up, up, and away like the iconic superhero. It pairs well with Wonder Woman Lola Bunny, who also has a special action base that allows her to spin her shield around and around like an Amazon. 

If you want to “rock” out, Fred Flintstone Bugs Bunny has a jukebox and microphone where he can sing his heart out and become the Musical Star of Bedrock! Not to be outdone, Wilma Flintstone Lola Bunny can spin like a tornado and become the Dance Star of Bedrock!

 

Bugs and Lola Bunny also have a classic mystery-solving mode with their Scooby-Doo variants. Fred Jones Bugs Bunny has the Mystery Machine that you can push forward to help him hunt for ghosts and solve mysteries. Meanwhile, Daphne Blake Lola Bunny is inside the Creepy Castle also searching for clues!

 

Have a super Jolly fun time with the Warner Bros.100th Anniversary Mash Up Collection Jollibee Kids Meal! Each collectible toy is available with every purchase of a Yumburger (PHP 100.00), Yumburger with drink (PHP 125.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy (PHP 142.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy with drink (PHP 167.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak (PHP 120.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak with drink (PHP 145.00), Jolly Spaghetti (PHP 120.00), and Jolly Spaghetti with drink (PHP 145.00). 

 

Don’t miss this chance to collect all the awesome toys in the collection by visiting the Jollibee branch nearest you, or have them delivered to your home through the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000 hotline, GrabFood, or foodpanda. Promo runs from October 1, 2023 to November 15, 2023 only.

 

To learn more about Jollibee Kids Meal and other products, follow Jollibee on Facebook at facebook.com/JollibeePhilippines, and on X and Instagram at @Jollibee.