Caloocan City’s Arianne Villareal made headlines at the Miss Grand Philippines 2025 preliminaries after she dramatically released live butterflies during her evening gown performance. The gesture was intended to symbolize transformation, freedom, and beauty—but it quickly sparked debate online. While many admired her creativity and boldness, critics raised concerns about the welfare of the butterflies and the appropriateness of using live animals on stage. Arianne has since addressed the controversy, explaining the meaning behind her choice while standing by her advocacy for transformation and resilience. Regardless of differing opinions, her performance has become one of the most talked-about moments of Miss Grand Philippines 2025. What do you think? Was it a bold statement or a step too far?
Video courtesy of Miss Grand Philippines.
I contribute content to BeautyPOVPH and help write some of its features. Your support means a lot—please consider liking, commenting, or subscribing to our YouTube channel. It helps us continue bringing you the latest updates in the world of pageantry and beyond.
I’ve been receiving a lot of messages in the Schengen Visa Facebook group I’m part of, asking about my Schengen visa application to the Czech Republic through VFS. So, I thought I’d post this here to reach more Filipinos like me who are planning to apply for a Schengen visa and want to know how to successfully navigate the process. This isn’t my first time—I’ve successfully obtained my Schengen visa from both the Netherlands and Germany embassies, and their processes are almost the same. This time around, I applied for a one-year visa through the Czech Republic Embassy. Here are some tips and things I did to get that one-year visa.
Visa Type: Short Stay / Tourism For context, this visa is for short-term tourism, allowing the holder to explore the Czech Republic and visit other Schengen-area countries during the validity of the visa.
My Schengen Visa Application Timeline
September 19 2024: Submission of Documents I went to the VFS Global center in Manila, where I submitted my documents. There was a minor hiccup, though: I had initially filled out the application form for The Netherlands Embassy, not realizing that there were small differences in the forms across Schengen countries. I had to redo the form on the spot (and yes, my handwriting is far from perfect). But that’s okay—VFS was very understanding, and I quickly fixed the mistake.
In the afternoon, I received an email from VFS confirming that they had forwarded my application to the Czech Republic Embassy in Makati City.
September 24 2024: Updates from VFS
By the morning, I got another email from VFS letting me know that the Czech Embassy had processed my application and forwarded it back to VFS. Later in the afternoon, I got a second email saying that my passport was ready for dispatch.
September 25 2024: Visa Approved! The very next day, I received my passport back via LBC (you can either pick up your passport in person for free or have it delivered via courier for a fee), and with it, a Schengen visa valid for one year! I honestly wasn’t sure if they’d approve my request for a one-year visa, but they did—and I couldn’t be happier.
Documents I Submitted for My Application I want to share the full list of documents I submitted to help other applicants. Here’s what you’ll need for a Schengen visa application via VFS for the Czech Republic:
Completed Application Form (make sure it’s the correct form for your embassy!)
Cover Letter – I specifically requested a one-year visa in my letter.
Day-to-Day Itinerary – Detailed travel plans for my trip.
Flight Reservation – Proof of flight booking (doesn’t have to be a fully paid ticket).
Travel Insurance – Must cover the entire Schengen zone for the duration of your stay.
Photocopies of Passport Stamps – Including past Schengen visas (weirdly, VFS asked for these copies even though they were in my current passport).
Certificate of Employment – To show proof of stable employment.
Leave of Absence Certificate – Proof that I’m on approved leave for my travel.
Income Tax Return (ITR) – For the year 2023.
Payslips – I submitted payslips for the last six months.
Bank Certificate – From my savings account.
2 Bank Statements – One from my savings account and one from my payroll account (from October 2023 to July 2024).
Credit Card Details – Photocopy of the credit card page showing the credit limit for the last six months.
SSS Member’s Data Page – This was downloaded from the SSS website.
Life Insurance Policy Page – Also downloaded online.
Maxicare Coverage – Not sure if it made a difference, but I included it anyway.
Photocopy of Birth Certificate – Standard requirement for ID verification.
It’s worth noting that the VFS staff requested photocopies of some of these documents, even though they were already in my passport. They were also very thorough in checking everything.
My Thoughts and Tips for Fellow Applicants To be quite honest, I was confident about getting my application approved, but I wasn’t sure if I’d get the one-year validity I requested. So, I was really relieved and happy that they granted my request.
My advice for anyone applying is to double-check—or even triple-check—each form and document before submitting them. If possible, have someone else double-check them for you as well. Every detail counts. I believe that consistency and accuracy are key here.
To anyone waiting for updates or still in the process of applying: Sending you all positive vibes! 🍀✨ Stay confident, stay organized, and most importantly, don’t lose hope!
Wolf Girl follows nineteen-year-old Demi Calloway, a wolf shifter who has never shifted due to her family’s exile from Wolf City before she was born. Forced to repress her inner wolf and live as a human, Demi’s world changes drastically when Sawyer Hudson—the Alpha’s son—pulls strings to get her into Wolf City. However, this comes with a catch: it’s Sawyer’s mate selection year, and all unmated females aged 18-22 must attend what Demi cheekily dubs the “Werewolf Bachelor.” As the story unfolds, Demi discovers that her wolf side is very different from others—when she shifts, her wolf separates from her and can move independently, a rare and dangerous trait tied to past trauma.
Demi is a standout protagonist—snarky and sarcastic on the surface but genuinely kind, loyal, and a survivor beneath it all. Leia Stone strikes a nice balance by making Demi relatable and multi-dimensional: she can be humorous and deflective, yet vulnerable and serious when the story demands it. I appreciated this nuanced portrayal and look forward to watching her character grow in the sequels.
The romance between Demi and Sawyer was an unexpected highlight for me. While Sawyer himself didn’t fully win me over as a hero, their dynamic worked well. Demi’s aloof, sarcastic personality needed a steady, decent partner rather than a brooding or “bad boy” type, and Sawyer fit that bill. The romance felt authentic and charming, even if I didn’t love Sawyer personally.
That said, the book wasn’t without flaws. Some world-building choices were confusing—particularly the mechanics of the werewolf lore and Sawyer’s sudden involvement with Demi’s isolated school, which didn’t quite mesh with the rules established in the story. At times, character behavior felt inconsistent for their age and setting, leaning more toward teenage drama than adult college life. There was also a “too convenient” moment that nearly pulled me out of the story.
Stylistically, a tighter edit might have improved flow and clarity, but the engaging plot, emotional depth, and intriguing paranormal twist kept me hooked. The cliffhanger ending was frustrating and felt like it could have worked better as a standalone book rather than part one of a duology.
The romance scenes were sweet and fitting for the characters’ age, though I felt the sexual chemistry could have been stronger given their connection. The story also includes some heavy themes, such as trauma and exile, handled with sensitivity—though some readers should be aware of mature content implied in the background.
Overall, Wolf Girl is a fun, fresh paranormal romance with a unique spin on werewolf mythology, a likable heroine, and an engaging modern “Bachelor”-style plot. While not perfect, it was an enjoyable read that left me curious to see what’s next for Demi, Sawyer, and the world Leia Stone has built.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
About the Author Leia Stone is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple bestselling series including Matefinder and Wolf Girl. She’s sold over two million books and her Fallen Academy series has been optioned for film. Her novels have been translated into five languages and she even dabbles in script writing. Leia writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance with sassy kick-butt heroines and irresistible love interests. She lives in Spokane, WA with her husband and two children.
After becoming addicted to Nendoroids during the pandemic, my partner and I are now completely hooked on Pop Mart’s Hirono. Hirono is a character from Pop Mart, designed by Lang, a Chinese designer who embodies human emotions such as love, joy, sadness, fear, kindness, cowardice, and more. They have various series now, which easily resonate with many people—both old and new collectors alike. Here are some of our recent acquisitions:
Meanwhile, Pop Mart has teased us with the latest Hirono series, which is apparently called the Echo Series. We still need to confirm, but some pages, like Knot To Box on Facebook, have posted about it! It looks intriguing, and we can’t wait to see the latest designs from Lang!
When the fourth season of Haikyuu!! started in early 2020 and concluded around July of the same year, I was expecting a fifth season. Given the abundance of material in the manga, a couple more seasons seemed likely. However, the decision was made to produce two movies instead. In February this year, the first movie, Haikyuu!! THE MOVIE: Decisive Battle at the Garbage Dump, was released to great success.
We’ve been anticipating this rematch between Karasuno and Nekoma for what feels like forever, and it exceeded all my expectations. Watching the film made me feel nostalgic because Haikyuu!! is one of my favorite anime series of all time. Seeing it on the big screen with fellow fans was an absolutely incredible experience.
While I would still prefer the story to continue as a series, this movie delivered on all fronts, so I have no complaints. I’m quite satisfied with it. It saddens me, however, that after the second film, it will be over, and only the memories of watching this incredible anime will remain—along with rewatching the entire series in the coming years.
Animation-wise, the film is exceptionally well made and a significant improvement over the somewhat comical and butchered animation of the fourth season. Remembering that still makes me chuckle.
The film is packed with flashbacks, funny moments, and exhilarating scenes from the manga. We get different perspectives from various characters, primarily Kenma and Hinata.
My favorite scenes from the movie include Kenma’s POV of the game. Those few minutes of seeing the play through Kenma’s eyes featured fantastic animation. Another highlight is seeing young Kuroo and Kenma. And, of course, Hinata’s resolve as he was challenged by Kenma to play his best, and vice versa.
The story is, as always, top-notch. The humor was spot on, and the characters—what can I say? Haruichi Furudate is a genius for creating these wonderful characters that we fans have come to cherish over the years and will continue to cherish moving forward.
The movie opens in the country on May 15 and should be available in major theaters nationwide. Be sure to catch it while it’s showing!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Director: Susumu Mitsunaka Based on Haikyu!! by Haruichi Furudate Cast: Ayumu Murase, Kaito Ishikawa, Yuki Kaji, Yuichi Nakamura
This omnibus edition encompasses the entire series, but this review is about the final installment titled ‘Destined.’ From a young age, Tinder was indoctrinated to despise his enemy—vampires—who were responsible for the death of his entire family. However, his attraction to the enigmatic and alluring vampire, Bane, challenges everything he has been taught. When an army of vampires is assembled to eliminate the hunters, with Bane as a prime target, Tinder finds himself in a precarious situation and must rely on a vampire for survival.
I found ‘Destined’ to be the perfect conclusion to this series. I appreciated Tinder’s journey of self-discovery, where he comes to realize that life isn’t as black and white as he once believed. Despite many obstacles, Bane’s unwavering love for Tinder remained steadfast, and their shared history added depth to their relationship. The story still maintains the signature elements of the previous installments: dialogues, dry humor, and the entertaining banter between Tinder, Bane, and the supporting characters.
While I felt a sense of sadness for Lee’s character, I hope that he receives his own storyline and experiences a similar awakening. Overall, this series delivers on all fronts and is destined to become one of my favorite rereads in the future!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
About the Author Alexa Land has been writing gay romance since 2012 and is a true believer in happily ever after. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and keeps vampire hours, preferring to write when everyone else is asleep.
Alexa’s books are about friends, found family, and falling in love. She’s best known for the Firsts and Forever series and its spin-offs, including her new Firsts and Forever Stories. Alexa is also the author of the paranormal California Obscura series.
I initially rated this book two stars, but since about a decade ago (based on my Goodreads history), I’ve found myself repeatedly drawn to it, gradually developing a deep affection and genuine appreciation. It has become one of my favorite books. The characters are captivating, the story enthralling, and I now have immense love for this book!
The narrative unfolds from the perspective of Liam, a 22-year-old introvert who returns home for his final year of college to be with his uncle, who is dying of kidney failure. To occupy his time, he secures a job at Great Sin Ink, a tattoo parlor owned by the enigmatic Ace. As the tale progresses, Liam and Ace’s complexities with familial responsibilities add layers to the narrative.
I truly appreciate the realism of this book. The characters, both primary and supporting, are richly complex, making you root for them from the outset. Liam’s character, in particular, is a delight to follow. Despite his intelligence and dialogues peppered with quotations from famous figures—which might seem preachy at first—they come across as genuine and engaging. The author’s skillful construction of Liam’s character makes him incredibly believable.
The story’s pacing is flawless, creating an atmosphere where you can truly immerse yourself in the narrative. The vivid and realistic portrayal of emotions and surroundings makes you feel as though you’re stepping into the story itself. My most favorite are the interactions between Liam and Ace, as well as his newfound friends. Each page is imbued with a palpable sense of yearning and nostalgia, drawing you further into the story.
I’ve had this book on my e-reader for years, and I’ve always wanted my own physical copy but never got around to it. Finally, I’ve made the decision to get it! I can’t emphasize enough how much I recommend this book.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
About The Author Though I always had stories in my head as a kid, I was constantly frustrated by my inability to write them down. I have a word for why now: disgraphia. My handwriting would fall disjointed and painful on the page. It wasn’t until I was nearly thirteen and got my first desktop computer that everything began to pour out of me. A torrent of words, all of them far away from the storms of an unremarkable adolescence in suburbia. It took thirteen years and a hundred discarded stories before I felt confident enough to send my work out into the world. It’s been exciting to send my bottles into the ocean of published and having a few of them plucked up. Of course, my handwriting is worse than ever, but I type ninety words per minute!
Cana, Massachusetts: a utopian vision of 18th-century Puritan New England. To the outside world, Reverend Nathaniel Whitfield and his family stand as godly pillars of their small-town community, drawing Christians from across the New World into their fold. One such Christian, physician Arthur Lyman, discovers in the minister’s words a love so captivating it transcends language.
As the bond between these two men grows more and more passionate, their families must contend with a tangled web of secrets, lies, and judgments which threaten to destroy them in this world and the next. And when the religious ecstasies of the Great Awakening begin to take hold, igniting a new era of zealotry, Nathaniel and Arthur search for a path out of an impossible situation, imagining a future for themselves which has no name. Their wives and children must do the same, looking beyond the known world for a new kind of wilderness, both physical and spiritual.
***
In the early 1800s, against the backdrop of Puritan New England, where religion held paramount importance, ‘All the World Beside’ unfurls in a society where love between men was condemned as a mortal sin. Religion served as the focal point, shaping and dictating societal norms and values. Within this rigid structure, Rev. Nathaniel Whitfield, the founder of the town of Cana, and Arthur Lyman, a doctor who followed Nathaniel, grapple with their beliefs, questioning doctrines, and ultimately discovering a broader perspective on life beyond the confines of religious dogma.
The author’s clear perspective on exploring themes of faith, family, and love is depicted with remarkable realism in this undeniably well-researched and beautifully written prose. Its narrative does not shy away from portraying the complexity and struggles faced by queer relationships, as seen from the perspectives of those around them. Through these viewpoints, readers gain insight into and understanding of their connection.
I found this aspect of the book to be a brave choice by the author. While I personally would have liked to delve more into the main characters’ points of view, I thoroughly enjoyed these perspectives, which somehow felt more human.
Ultimately, I would give this book a solid five-star rating. It stands as a strong follow-up to the author’s acclaimed autobiography, “Boy Erased.” It offers another brave and intelligent narrative that genuinely compels readers to root for its main and supporting characters. It tells a story of forbidden love, evoking deep emotions and offering a glimpse into the struggles of those caught in its grip. Conley, yet again, was able to present a strong point of view with emotional and poignant lessons in humanity.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars Published on March 26, 2024 by Riverhead Books
About The Author Garrard (pronounced without the final ‘r;’ a family oddity) Conley is the author of the memoir, Boy Erased, out from Riverhead (Penguin) May 2016. His work can be found in TIME, VICE, CNN, Buzzfeed Books, Virginia Quarterly Review, and many others. He has received scholarships from the Bread Loaf, Sewanee, and Elizabeth Kostova Foundation Writers’ Conferences and has facilitated craft classes for Catapult, Grub Street, Sackett Street Writers Workshop, and the Fine Arts Works Center in Provincetown. If you are interested in contacting him, you can find information here.
Sultan Kudarat played host to the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 National Costume Competition last Sunday—and it was a spectacle that surpassed all expectations. The province orchestrated a show that could easily rival, if not overshadow, any national finals. From the exquisite stage design and lighting to the flawless execution of the program, every detail was meticulously curated. The charismatic hosts—Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel and actor Marco Gumabao—added an extra layer of charm, but the true stars of the evening were the contestants themselves. They graced the stage in stunning national costumes inspired by the theme of flora and fauna. Their performances elevated the event to unprecedented heights, securing its place as one of the most memorable moments of the entire competition.
Three contestants emerged as winners of the Best National Costume award. Among them was the beloved fan favorite, Alexie Brooks of Iloilo, whose captivating and uniquely crafted “Ugto-Ugto” costume mesmerized the live audience. Joining her were Jet Hammond, representing the Filipino Community of Southern California, who wore an incredible Tubbataha Reef–inspired costume; and Tamara Ocier from Tacloban, adorned in a stunning ensemble portraying the goddess of the sun embraced by the Tacloban monitor lizard, also known as “Halo.” In recognition of their outstanding performances and artistic interpretations, each winner received a ₱100,000 cash prize.
Now, let me present my personal top 10 favorites from the event—those who I believe truly embraced the theme and showcased phenomenal costumes that highlighted the rich flora and fauna of the Philippines.
Victoria Velasquez Vincent – Bacoor Designer: Axel Que This Gamu-gamo or moth’s inspired costume embodies exquisite craftsmanship, reminiscent of editorial fashion with a touch of Alexander McQueen’s aesthetic. The addition of the ala-Pat McGrath Makeup look from Maison Margiela in this picture elevates the costume to new heights. It’s unfortunate that Victoria didn’t have the same makeup during the presentation. Nevertheless, it remains an absolute beauty!
This costume is truly one for the books! It’s well-crafted, incredibly unique, and Alexie’s presentation was simply perfection. Designer Tata Blas-Pinuela truly grasped the assignment, and the result speaks volumes. Bravo!
Phoebe Arriana Torita – Kananga Designer: John Hubert Capito
This Ylang Ylang-inspired masterpiece is simply incredible! The stained glass effect beautifully captures the essence of Kananga, named after this fragrant and beautiful flora. Its intricate design and vibrant colors truly evoke the allure and charm of the Ylang Ylang flower. An exquisite tribute to nature’s beauty!
Angel Rose Tambal – Leyte Designer: Er Stephen Alvarado
This national costume represents the iterative evolution of the ‘Tikling Birds,’ and it is simply enigmatic! I am captivated by the concept behind it. Moreover, its incorporation of gold elements exudes queen of Egypt vibes, adding a touch of regal elegance. Despite this international flair, it remains distinctly Filipino, showcasing a fusion of cultural influences that could compete on a global stage with ease.
Now, this Pawikan costume is perhaps the most unique and standout amidst a sea of glittering costumes. Naic’s designer demonstrates a keen sense of proportion, meticulous attention to detail in translating the Pawikan into a costume, and the result is nothing short of perfection! This collaboration is truly top-notch, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity behind the creation of this stunning ensemble.
Zoleil Mellane Taño – Occidental Mindoro Designer: Michael Jayzon Dela Cruz
The Tamaraw-inspired costume is stunning both in pictures and up close; the attention to detail is simply impeccable! While the presentation could have been improved, considering the circumstances — I’ve learned from the designer that the day of the event was the first time Zoleil wore the Tamaraw shoes — kudos to her for pulling it off!
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
Tamara Ocier – Tacloban Designer: Charlotte Rodriguez
I have to agree with the judges; this costume is simply stunning and truly unique! The representation of the region and the intricate details of the costume are absolutely exquisite. And that addition of the monitor lizard? It’s perfection! The ensemble beautifully captures the essence of the region, making it a standout piece in the competition
Although this costume may not have garnered as much attention on social media, it remains one of the most visually striking ensembles, particularly in terms of its intricate details. Inspired by Awihao, the first tree to grow in Toledo, and complemented by the addition of a sunbird, this look is undeniably incredible!
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
Jet Hammond – Southern California Designer: Ehrran Montoya
The designer drew inspiration from the Tubbataha Reef, a vibrant ecosystem that stands as a living tribute to the marine treasures of the Philippines. And indeed, this ensemble is sheer perfection! From the captivating colors and luxurious fabrics to the ingenious concept and flawless execution, Jet Hammond not only maximizes the costume’s stunning aesthetic appeal but also wears it with unparalleled class and elegance. My goodness, this is undoubtedly one of the most aesthetically beautiful costumes I’ve seen in all my years covering pageants. Ehrran Montoya is a genius!
Christina Chalk – United Kingdom Designer: Daniel Guarino and Jessie Catienza
This costume beautifully showcases the Filipino and British heritage of Christina Chalk, and the collaboration between two designers has resulted in something truly impeccable! The intricate details are a visual delight, while the headpiece exudes a regal elegance reminiscent of Queen Amidala. The incorporation of various elements reflects Chalk’s mixed heritage, adding depth and richness to the overall design.
image via Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page.
It was challenging for me to narrow down my choices to just 10, given the abundance of costumes that authentically represent the beauty of the flora and fauna in our country. This event undoubtedly solidifies the Philippines’ position as one of the countries with the most diverse and stunning ecosystems, while also showcasing Filipino designers as some of the most talented in the world!
Which national costumes stood out to you as favorites?
Don’t miss the coronation night of the national pageant, scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena. The event will be hosted by Filipino-American Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel.
Haikyuu enthusiasts, rejoice! “Haikyuu!! THE MOVIE: Decisive Battle at the Garbage Dump” is officially making its way to the Philippines!
@SM_Cinema has confirmed the exciting news, announcing that the eagerly awaited screening of “Haikyuu!! THE MOVIE: Decisive Battle at the Garbage Dump” will take place somewhere in May exclusively on SM Cinemas as detailed in their post on X.
Following its debut in Hong Kong and Macau on April 11, and Taiwan on April 12, the movie will journey through various markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and India in May.
The well-loved sports anime will delve into the much-anticipated showdown between Karasuno and Nekoma, promising fans an unforgettable experience.
Having premiered in Japan on February 16, the film has soared to incredible heights, raking in an astounding ¥81.9 billion (~US$541 million) in box office revenue, making it one of Japan’s highest-grossing films of all time.
Can hardly wait for it! All rise, my Karasuno and Nekoma moots!
Paddylast Inc. claims no credit for images featured on this site unless otherwise noted. All pictures and media belong to their rightful owners. There is no copyright infringement intended. If you are a copyright holder and wish for credits on your images, please let me know, and I will be glad to add them. If you feel that I have materials on this site infringing your copyright material, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me, and I will remove it immediately.
Please note that this blog is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission via Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I also earn a commission, at no additional cost to you if you purchase a product through one of the affiliate links or ads displayed on the website
I contribute content to BeautyPOVPHand help write some of its features. Your support means a lot—please consider liking, commenting, or subscribing to our YouTube channel. It helps us continue bringing you the latest updates in the world of pageantry and beyond.
PADDYLAST INC. 