• Marcos won’t pick full-time DA chief soon: You’ll just have to put up with me

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. isn’t saying goodbye to the Department of Agriculture any time soon. In a chance interview, Marcos says he won’t be leaving the department unless there are already ‘systems in place to guarantee the food supply’ of the country.

• Judge handling De Lima’s remaining drug charge inhibits from case

The judge handling former senator Leila de Lima’s remaining drug case voluntarily inhibits himself from the case in an order made public on Friday, June 16.

• PH media landscape remains ‘largely grim’ despite change in leadership, says report

The annual Digital News Report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism or RISJ finds, the Philippines media landscape, despite the change in leadership in 2022, remains ‘largely grim.’

• Cebu Pacific passengers decry ‘arbitrary’ flight cancellations, Senate probe set

With the increasing complaints about Cebu Pacific in viral posts, the Senate committees on tourism and on public services will begin an investigation on Wednesday, June 21.

• Carlos Yulo nails all-around silver in Asian Gymnastics Championships, earns spot in worlds

Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo claims the men’s individual all-around silver in the Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Singapore securing his place in the World Championships in Belgium in September.

• ‘LOONA is free’: All 12 members leave BlockBerry Creative after winning lawsuits

All 12 members of K-pop group LOONA have left their agency BlockBerry Creative. This, after Haseul, Yeojin, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye win their respective injunctions to suspend their exclusive contracts with BlockBerry.

• Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin are engaged

Disney child actor Dylan Sprouse and Victoria’s Secret model Barbara Palvin are getting married after almost five years of dating. — Rappler.com

Haseul, Yeojin, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye won their respective injunctions to suspend their exclusive contracts with BlockBerry, South Korean media reported on Friday, June 16.

According to Seoul Economic Daily, the Seoul High Court’s Fifth Civil Cases Division ruled in favor of the five members, citing “a problem with BlockBerry’s transferring of exclusive contracts to Japanese agency Universal Japan without the written consent of the members.”

BlockBerry has not released a statement as of this writing.

The members have been in a legal battle against BlockBerry for more than a year, filing a string of lawsuits to suspend their exclusive contracts with the agency.

Chuu filed her injunction in December 2021 on the grounds of nonpayment for her activities. BlockBerry expelled her from the group almost a year after, on November 25, 2022, alleging verbal abuse against staff, which Chuu denied. 

A few days after, on November 28, JTBC reported that Heejin, Haseul, Yeojin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye filed their injunctions, citing breach of mutual trust.

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry won their injunctions in January 2023. 

Hyunjin and Vivi filed their injunctions in February 2023, winning them a few months after in May. 

‘Liberation’

LOONA members took to social media to react to the news, with Haseul, Yeojin, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye thanking the group’s fans for their support.

“I think we got a good outcome because you were always on our side and rooted for us and gave us strength,” Olivia Hye wrote.

Fans have been boycotting BlockBerry Creative since December 2022, calling out the agency for apparently mistreating LOONA members and signing them to contracts that leave them “in perpetual debt.”

Seven of the LOONA members are currently pursuing their respective endeavors.

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry signed exclusive contracts with Modhaus and launched the ARTMS project in March 2023. The project is now teasing a comeback of the LOONA subunit ODD EYE CIRCLE, comprising Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry. 

In April, Chuu signed an exclusive contract with a new agency ATRP. She has also teased an upcoming solo album in the second half of 2023, with details still pending as of this posting.

Meanwhile, Hyunjin and Vivi signed exclusive contracts with CTDENM in June. – Rappler.com

Abyss Company, Sandara’s agency, confirmed the news on Wednesday, June 14. “Sandara Park is preparing for a new album [aiming to be released] in July,” they said, according to a Soompi report. 

“Sandara Park’s fans have waited for her [for] long. We have decided to release a special album and are currently putting all our hearts into it to return to fans,” the company added, according to Korea Herald. 

Following the news, Sandara also took to social media to share her excitement. “Finally, singer Dara is back with solo special mini-album for my fans. Thank you so much for waiting,” she wrote.

Specific details about the album, such as its title, title track, and release date, are yet to be released. 

The upcoming album will be Sandara’s first solo release in South Korea and will mark her return as a singer since 2NE1’s final single “Goodbye” in January 2017. 

Sandara, 38, rose to fame after joining the 2004 talent competition series Star Circle Quest. She began her singing career in the Philippines with her first album Sandara in 2004

She debuted under YG Entertainment as a member of South Korean girl group 2NE1 in 2009. The group went on to release multiple hit songs such as “FIRE,” “I DON’T CARE,” and “I Am the Best” before disbanding in November 2016. 

Following 2NE1’s disbandment, Sandara explored acting, appearing in shows such as We Broke Up and My Love from the Star. She has also made various appearances in television programs such as King of Mask Singer. 

In 2021, she ended her 14-year partnership with YG Entertainment and signed with Abyss. – Rappler.com

• Leila de Lima’s 3 co-accused want Muntinlupa judge to stop handling their case

Former senator Leila de Lima’s co-accused in her third drug case, ask Muntinlupa Judge Romeo Buenaventura to inhibit from the case due to a conflict of interest.

• 50 cops, including generals, face criminal complaints over P6.7-B shabu mess

The National Police Commission and the Philippine National Police file criminal complaints against 50 policemen, including police generals over the P6.7-billion shabu mess hounding the national police.

• Local politicians take lead in filing libel cases against journalists – NUJP study

A study commissioned by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines shows local politicians take the lead in filing criminal cases of libel and cyber libel against journalists.

• Golden Globe Awards sold, Hollywood Foreign Press group shut down

The Golden Globe Awards is sold to a new owner shutting down the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Eldridge Industries buys the Golden Globe assets, which will continue to manage the awards telecast.

• Leren Bautista on ‘romantic involvement’ with Ricci Rivero: ‘Entirely false’

Beauty queen-turned-politician Leren Bautista comments on her ‘alleged romantic involvement’ with basketball player Ricci Rivero. In a statement, Leren’s camp says ‘These claims are entirely false and have no basis in reality.’

• Fans celebrate K-pop supergroup BTS’ 10-year anniversary

Fans of K-pop powerhouse BTS gather in Seoul, South Korea to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the boy band’s debut. Although the group is on hiatus with two members in military service, their loyal fanbase called ARMY still gather in Seoul.

• Looking for underrated beaches? A travel guide to Leyte and Biliran

Calling all beach lovers! Looking for an underrated island getaway? The islands of Leyte and Biliran could be for you! Travel to Tacloban City is easily accessible by plane or bus. — Rappler.com

The one-night show will be held at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City on August 28. 

According to event organizer Random Minds PH, tickets range from P4,803 for the Balcony section to P12,273 for the VVIP sections. 

Additional perks such as hi-touch, photo op, soundcheck, and send-off access are also available depending on the VVIP choice. 

Meanwhile, other tiers would also have the chance to win a signed poster and media conference pass via raffle.

Tickets go on sale starting July 1, 10 am via the TicketNet website and outlets nationwide. 

The upcoming August show will serve as DREAMCATCHER’s return to the Philippines in four years, following their Invitation from Nightmare City. 

The seven-piece act is best known for mixing pop and heavy metal. Their hit songs include “Odd Eye,” “I Miss You,” “Jazz Bar,” “Scream,” and “Eclipse.” – Rappler.com

SEOUL, South Korea – Fans of K-pop supergroup BTS gathered in the heart of the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday, June 12, to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the boy band’s debut. 

Although the group is on hiatus with two of the members currently doing mandatory military service, many of their loyal global fanbase called ARMY still gathered in Seoul this week.

The seven-member group have gained a huge international following after breaking ground for K-pop’s global success including in the US music charts and industry awards. 

Landmarks such as Seoul City Hall and Namsan Tower were lit purple, BTS’ signature color, while dozens of fans from France, Mexico and elsewhere came to enjoy the sights. 

“I came to Korea last week and I am very surprised and excited to see the Namsan Tower purple,” said Rita, a 20-year-old student from France who has been an ARMY since 2018. 

Organizations and businesses are also joining the celebration, with the city of Seoul working with BTS’ management agency HYBE to set up a tour of landmarks associated with BTS. South Korea’s postal service released special commemorative stamps of BTS’ debut anniversary. 

Companies such as Hyundai Department Store, Lotte Shopping, Lotte Cinema, and S-Oil have introduced special offers or events.

The celebrations are expected to hit a climax on Saturday, when BTS leader RM is expected to meet fans – followed by fireworks near the Han River, which bisects Seoul. 

“Thank you for teaching us a little, or maybe even too much, about happiness and love,” member JungKook told fans in a Twitter message on Sunday, June 11. “I want to keep walking with you all for the next 10 years as well”. – Rappler.com

• SWS survey puts Sara Duterte, Raffy Tulfo as 2028 presidential front-runners

A commissioned survey shows Vice President Sara Duterte is the ‘best leader to succeed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2028.’

• Marcos tells Filipinos to ‘assert liberty day by day’

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in a message on Monday, June 12, tells Filipinos to ‘assert our liberty day by day,’ in an ‘age where battles remain but occur in places the eyes cannot see.’

• Ex-senator Rodolfo Biazon dies at 88

Former senator Rodolfo ‘Pong’ Biazon dies at the age of 88 on Monday, June 12. The Biazon family says it is ‘perfectly fitting’ that Biazon passed on Independence Day, adding he ‘dedicated his life and laid it on the line in defending freedom and democracy.’

• NLEX to hike toll rates starting June 15

The North Luzon Expressway Corporation (NLEX) will implement higher toll rates starting June 15. Rates will be hiked by an additional P7 in the open system, and P0.36 per kilometer in the closed system.

• Eldrew Yulo vaults way to junior silver in Asian Gymnastics Championships

Rising gymnast Eldrew Yulo bags the vault silver in the men’s junior division of the Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Singapore on Monday, June 12.

• Kaladkaren becomes first transgender Philippine news anchor

Actress and comedian Kaladkaren joins TV5’s Frontline Pilipinas, becoming the first transgender news anchor in the Philippines. She will present the latest entertainment news and trivia for Frontline Pilipinas. 

• ‘Holy grail’: Juan Luna’s lost masterpiece revealed after 132 years

After 132 years, Juan Luna’s missing masterpiece Hymen, oh Hyménée! has been found and returned to the Philippines for the first time.

• Coldplay headed to PH in 2024; EXO drops teaser for ‘EXIST’

British rock band Coldplay is coming back to the Philippines. Meanwhile, K-pop boy group EXO is set to make its highly-anticipated comeback on July 10 with the release of its new album EXIST. — Rappler.com

CTDENM was founded by Yoon Do-yeon, a former planning director at LOONA’s agency BlockBerry Creative, who has also previously worked with SM Entertainment.

“We would like to thank HyunJin and ViVi for joining us at this new starting point,” CTDENM said in a statement as translated by Soompi.

“We will do our utmost in giving our unsparing support to these two artists in the future so that their talents can blossom even more beautifully.”

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A post shared by 씨티디이엔엠(CTDENM Co.,ltd) (@ctdenm)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 씨티디이엔엠(CTDENM Co.,ltd) (@ctdenm)

This follows the suspension of Hyunjin and Vivi’s exclusive contracts with BlockBerry in May 2023. They filed an injunction against the agency a few months before in February.

All 12 members of LOONA had filed injunctions to suspend their exclusive contracts with BlockBerry. 

Chuu was the first to file her injunction in December 2021, citing nonpayment for her activities. BlockBerry expelled her from LOONA in November 2022, alleging verbal abuse which Chuu denied. She is now signed exclusively with her new agency ATRP, announced in April 2023.

Heejin, Haseul, Yeojin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye filed their injunctions in November 2022, days after Chuu was removed from the group, citing breach of mutual trust. 

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry won their injunctions in January 2023. The four members then signed exclusive contracts with Modhaus, and launched the ARTMS project days after. 

Haseul, Yeojin, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye remain with BlockBerry Creative.

LOONA fans continue to boycott all activities under BlockBerry, calling out the agency for apparently mistreating LOONA members and signing them to contracts that leave them “in perpetual debt.” — Rappler.com

The group released late Sunday, June 11, a teaser for its seventh studio album, unveiling the group’s new logo for the upcoming release. 

EXIST will serve as EXO’s first release in more than two years, following the June 2021 EP Don’t Fight The Feeling. 

On Monday, June 12, EXO added that EXIST will have a total of nine tracks, with the pre-release song “Let Me In” being released also on June 12.  

According to a Soompi report, the pre-release track “Let Me In” is a ballad.

The group comeback also comes after three members – Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin – moved to terminate their exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment, citing unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as the reasons behind the decision. 

Despite the legal dispute, the three members assured fans that they will continue to do activities with EXO. 

EXO debuted under SM Entertainment in April 2012 with 12 members. They are known for songs “Overdose,” “Love Shot,” “Don’t Fight This Feeling,” “Growl,” and “Call Me Baby,” among others.  – Rappler.com

Local concert promoter DNM Entertainment announced on Saturday, June 10, that the vocalist will be bringing her The ODD OF LOVE solo concert tour to Manila. 

The one-night show is set for July 30 at the Araneta Coliseum. 

Additional details, such as ticket prices and selling dates, have yet to be announced. 

The solo concert will serve as Taeyeon’s second visit to the Philippines this 2023. She last performed at the K-Verse concert in April, with acts aespa and The Boyz. 

Aside from Taeyeon, her fellow SNSD member Yuri will also be coming to the Philippines for the Chapter 2 fan meeting set for July 9. 

Taeyeon made her debut in 2007 as the leader and main vocalist of SNSD. The group is known for tracks “Genie,” “I Got A Boy,” “Lion Heart,” and “Forever 1,” among others. 

As a soloist, she made her debut in October 2015. Her solo hits include “INVU,” “Weekend,” “What Do I Call You,” and “Dear Me.” – Rappler.com