POP NEWS DIGITAL

After a celebrated debut, Kadasig Entertainment Production proudly brings back "HOOK UP The Musical" for a special one-night-only engagement on June 13, 2026, at Sky Hall Seaside Cebu, featuring an even more dynamic and thought-provoking take on contemporary relationships. Penned and helmed by acclaimed Cebuano playwright and songwriter Jude Gitamondoc, this original work dives deep into the intricacies of identity and love in the digital era. Infused  with wit, emotion, and a modern pop soundtrack, the musical authentically reflects the lived experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community. The cast of 'HOOK UP The Musical' Returning to the stage are standout leads: Shim Dagatan and Paul Pablo alternating as #TimidTim, and Jan Echavarria with Grant Bacaltos portraying the enigmatic #IAmAnonymous. With this restaging, Gitamondoc seeks to transform the production from a theatrical event into a catalyst for national dialogue. Shim Dagatan “It’s not merely about scaling up the sho...

The battle is on to fight human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome or AIDS! Dr. Emmanuel S. Baja, research associate professor, DOST “Balik” Scientist and Principal Investigator of the HIV Gaming, Engaging, and Testing (HIV GET Tested) Project from the Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, announced that a digital advocacy gaming application has been developed to help address the barriers to HIV testing and counselling (HTC). Dubbed "Battle in the Blood (#BitB)," the app is a unique puzzle and turn-based combat mobile game. The game aims to influence social norms, knowledge and attitude surrounding HIV/AIDs and to challenge the belief that you can no longer live a long and fulfilling life after a HIV positive diagnosis. It contrasts this with the risk to your health and future by delaying or refusing testing and treatment services. The app, designed speci...

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has been appointed UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific. This was announced by Jonas Gaffud, mentor of Wurtzbach, on Instagram today, May 3. "Finally it's official. Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach is now the UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific," Gaffud said on his IG post. The uploaded photo showed the Filipino-German beauty queen signing the official letter with Steve Kraus, Director of UNAIDS Regional Support Team, Asia & The Pacific. Wurtzbach has been at the forefront of the campaign for AIDS since she became Miss Universe. The fight against AIDS is one of the major advocacies of the Miss Universe Organization. Wurtzbach joins the league of other international ambassadors for AIDS campaign. They are Victoria Beckham, Aishawarya Rai, Aung Sun Su Kyi, Naomi Watts, Norway's Crown Princess Mette Marit, Princess Stephanie of Monaco, etc. This developed as Wurtzbach is also e...