Residents along the Cotcot River were evacuated to the Liloan Central School starting at midnight on Monday. | Municipality of Liloan
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – Learning from the massive flooding that they experienced when Typhoon…
Residents along the Cotcot River were evacuated to the Liloan Central School starting at midnight on Monday. | Municipality of Liloan
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – Learning from the massive flooding that they experienced when Typhoon Tino hit Cebu last November 4, officials of the municipality of Liloan have ordered the preemptive evacuation of residents in low-lying areas and those along water bodies.
Starting at midnight on Monday, preemptive evacuation was ordered among residents near the Cotcot River, who were transferred to the Liloan Central School in Brgy. Poblacion, due to the threats of Tropical Depression Verbena.
In a report, the local government said they have so far relocated at least 137 individuals, including children, from along the Cotcot River.
At around noontime, emergency responders from Brgy. Cotcot were sent to the different subdivisions that are located along the riverbank to do house-to-house visits and inform the residents of the need to evacuate in case of rise in water level.
Typhoon Tino killed over a hundred individuals in Cebu. Among them were at least 35 from Liloan town, most of whom were washed in the water current when the Cotcot River swelled.
Liloan and the neighboring Consolacion town were among the hardest hit by the flooding caused by Tino.
On Monday, Liloan officials started the evacuation of residents in flood-prone areas in Brgys. Calero, Yati, Labatan, San Vicente, and Cabadiangan.
“For those living near creeks or in lowlands and flood prone areas, and those who were flooded during typhoon Tino, we strongly advise to do a preemptive evacuation to our designated evacuation center or to any favorable safe locations,” Yati barangay officials said in an advisory.
“Our Barangay Responders will be doing rounds to encourage constituents in flood prone areas to do a preemptive evacuation,” they added.
Evacuees from Brgy. Calero were accommodated at the Calero Integrated School while those from Yati were referred to the Yati Elementary School. Those coming from Brgy. Labatan were directed to proceed to the old barangay hall or the second floor of the Labatan National High School.
Residents of Cabadiangan were directed to proceed to the E. Veloso Elementary School and Kasantos Day Care Center.
In an advisory, the local government of Liloan said that water level at the Cotcot River remained low as of noontime on Monday, while scattered rainshowers were already experienced after Cebu was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1. However, they do not want to take any chances.
“Let us all stay safe and vigilant,” the local government said.
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Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, left, drives to the basket against Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
BOSTON — Jaylen Brown scored 35 poi…
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, left, drives to the basket against Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
BOSTON — Jaylen Brown scored 35 points and Josh Minott scored 12 of his 16 points in the second quarter when Boston shot 81.8% as the Celtics beat the shorthanded Orlando Magic 138-129 on Sunday night in the NBA.
Anfernee Simons added 23 points and Payton Pritchard chipped in with 19 and eight assists for the Celtics, who were coming off a tough home loss to Brooklyn on Friday. Brown also had eight assists.
The Celtics nearly squandered a 26-point, third-quarter lead. But, Brown scored 12 straight points. The Magic whittled away at their deficit and closed within six points in the final minute.
Jett Howard scored a season-high 30 points for the Magic, who were missing three of their top five scorers and had their three-game winning streak snapped. Desmond Bane had 18 points and Franz Wagner 15.
Orlando coach Jamahl Mosley was back after missing the second half of a victory over the New York Knicks on Saturday due to illness.
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Boston connected on 18 of 22 shots in the second quarter, turning a five-point lead after one period into an 80-57 edge at halftime.
Minott was 5 for 5 from the floor, connecting on two attempts from 3-point range.
Pritchard keyed a quick 10-3 spurt with a steal and layup before hitting a 3-pointer from the right corner 11 seconds later that made it 66-49. He also made a mid-range jumper with two seconds left in the half, capping the Celtics’ 48 points in the period.
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Coming off the victory at home against the Knicks, the Magic seemed a bit sluggish and had their franchise record-tying string of eight straight quarters of 30-or-more points end in the opening quarter as they were held to 27 points.
Up next
Magic: At the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday in the second game of a three-game trip.
Celtics: Host the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday.
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PESHAWAR — A suicide bombing killed three Pakistani paramilitary personnel Monday at the border force headquarters in Peshawar city, police told AFP.
“Three FC (Federal Constabulary) personnel deployed at the gate were martyred and four …
PESHAWAR — A suicide bombing killed three Pakistani paramilitary personnel Monday at the border force headquarters in Peshawar city, police told AFP.
“Three FC (Federal Constabulary) personnel deployed at the gate were martyred and four others were wounded,” said Peshawar police chief Mian Saeed, adding one assailant detonated explosives and two other attackers were shot dead by the security forces.
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The attackers struck at 8:10 am (0310 GMT) on the premises located on Saddar Road, one of the city’s busiest routes, just before rush hour.
An AFP reporter saw body parts of a suspected bomber lying outside the main gate, which was riddled with shrapnel holes.
“The attack has concluded, and a clearance operation is under way to determine whether any unexploded ordnance is present,” Zulfiqar Hameed, the police chief of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, told AFP.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.
The province borders Afghanistan and has long been a flashpoint for militant violence, which has intensified since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the assault, praising the “timely action” of security forces for averting greater loss of life.
“The perpetrators of this incident should be identified as soon as possible and brought to justice,” Sharif said.
“We will thwart the evil designs of terrorists who attack Pakistan’s integrity.”/dl
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The holiday season arrived early as Festival Mall, Alabang, lit its towering 30-foot Christmas tree—a nostalgic display of capiz lanterns, nutcrackers, stockings, and warm golden lights that cast a soft glow across the bustling halls. This dazzling cel…
The holiday season arrived early as Festival Mall, Alabang, lit its towering 30-foot Christmas tree—a nostalgic display of capiz lanterns, nutcrackers, stockings, and warm golden lights that cast a soft glow across the bustling halls. This dazzling celebration is just the beginning. Soon, across all Filinvest Malls, visitors will be swept up in the same radiant holiday spirit, coming together to revel in the most wonderful time of the year while sharing in a milestone that inspires pride across the Filinvest family.
This year’s festivities feel bigger and brighter than ever as Filinvest celebrates its 70th anniversary—a group milestone shared with the communities, and a reminder of seven decades of dreams, memories, and meaningful connections.
Where everyday memories take center stage
As families return to their favorite Filinvest destinations this December—whether for a concert, a new restaurant, a last-minute gift, or simply to enjoy the glow of holiday lights—they’ll find the same warmth that has defined these well-loved destinations for years. In every shared meal, every small discovery, every familiar tune from a weekend choir, there is a reminder that Christmas is made of moments we hold dearest.
Ever guided by its enduring mission of moving dreams forward, Filinvest celebrates 70 years, creating spaces where these moments—and the Filipinos that enjoy them—can flourish. “At Filinvest Malls, kindness turns moments into memories. This Christmas, we celebrate connection, compassion, and the joy of being part of one community—a spirit that has guided the Filinvest Group for 70 years of enabling Filipino dreams,” says Mitch Dumlao, first vice president and retail business unit head of Filinvest Malls. Through this enduring commitment, Filipino families can thrive, celebrate, and keep making new memories together.
A grand celebration for a grand milestone
Marked by its 70th year, this year’s holiday celebrations shine with an even deeper spirit of compassion and connection. At Festival Mall’s tree-lighting, children with special learning and developmental needs were welcomed as the season’s first guests of honor, immersing themselves in moments of pure holiday wonder. This heartfelt gathering, made possible with the Muntinlupa Social Services Department, served as a luminous reminder of what the season—and Filinvest Malls—is truly about: spreading joy where it matters most.
The celebration continues with the Lanterns of Dreams display at Festival Mall, where handmade lanterns crafted by Filinvest companies illuminate the halls in a radiant tribute to unity and shared purpose. These lanterns aren’t just lights—they represent the community’s collective aspirations, echoing the Filinvest group’s anniversary theme, “Moving Dreams Forward.” Each glowing lantern reflects the idea that the brightest moments happen when communities come together.
As Filinvest celebrates seven decades, these moments bring that vision to life. The legacy of its founders continues to inspire the creation of spaces where families can thrive, connect, and make new memories, carrying the spirit of fun and community into the coming year. Through Filinvest’s decades-long dedication to uplifting Filipino families, that enduring spirit is alive in every lantern, every event, and every moment unfolding across the malls this season—a celebration of growth, generosity, and the magic of the holidays.
Spreading the christmas atmosphere across Filinvest Malls
While Festival Mall in Alabang kicked off the season with its official Christmas launch on Nov. 7, 2025, the holiday cheer has quickly spread across all destinations. It continues throughout November and December with the Holiday Hymns Concert Series on weekends, and Santa Meet & Greet sessions on Dec. 13, 14, 20, and 21, keeping the spirit alive for families across the community.
Each location brings its own unique holiday magic. Main Square Bacoor brings neighbors together with its Christmas Memory Raffle and the eagerly anticipated children’s carol competition, while Westgate Alabang offers intimate Yuletide moments through chorale performances on Nov. 29 and Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20, complemented by Merry Moments with Santa on Dec. 7 and 14.
In Filinvest Malls Dumaguete, open spaces brim with Christmas bazaars from Nov. 24 to 30 and Dec. 15 to 21, alongside carol performances on Dec. 12, perfect for exploring local treats and gifts. Filinvest Malls Mimosa in Clark welcomes car lovers and weekend explorers with its Volks & Folks Car Meet & Flea Market on Nov. 29 to 30, while Fora Mall and IL Corso round out the season with food and gift fairs celebrating regional delicacies.
Signature Filinvest experiences: Play, sport, and adventure
The joy of shared play remains a hallmark of Filinvest Malls. Families can spend an entire day at Festival Mall in Alabang, enjoying its beloved amusement centers—Pixie Forest and X-Site. These spaces are designed for every age, from whimsical rides for children to interactive challenges for teens and adults. Birthday celebrants are treated to a complimentary Ride-All-You-Can pass, giving them and their friends extra reasons to celebrate, while all guests can take breaks at the dedicated Food Hub, which offers crowd-favorite snacks and quick bites for a convenient pause between rides and play.
This season, Roller Fever adds a new layer of excitement, now launching at both X-Site in Alabang and Fora Mall Tagaytay. Its neon-lit indoor skate rink, pulsing with K-pop energy, offers families a high-energy way to glide, spin, and share fun moments together. At Fora Mall, the Champion Sports Park provides space for fitness groups and weekend athletes to gather, compete, and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle. Sports enthusiasts can also discover the pickleball court at Main Square Bacoor, a hidden gem perfect for trying a fun and fast-growing sport.
For curious explorers, the I Belong Museum in Festival Mall sparks wonder with its retro-futuristic theme “Yesterday’s Tomorrow, Today,” blending education and play in a whimsical environment. Over in Cebu, IL Corso transforms the coastline into an adventure hub with Ultimate Watersports, including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boats, and wakeboarding—perfect for thrill-seekers and families looking for a holiday adrenaline rush.
Shop, discover, enjoy newly opened stores
Anchored by its founding mission, Filinvest Malls continues to create memorable experiences for its customers across all destinations. Shoppers can discover exciting new destinations at Festival Mall in Alabang, including Muji’s first branch in the South, the upgraded Asics flagship store for runners and fitness enthusiasts, and Nike, expanding the mall’s roster of global lifestyle brands.
Meanwhile, McDonald’s Cebu celebrates its 44th anniversary with the opening of its first green architecture branch, offering a unique dining experience amid the excitement at IL Corso.
About Filinvest Malls
Filinvest Malls is a group of malls that offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and leisure options for varied lifestyles—from regional shopping centers to community malls. These include Festival Mall in Alabang, Main Square in Bacoor, Fora Mall in Tagaytay, IL Corso in Cebu, and Filinvest Malls in Dumaguete. Today, Filinvest Malls bring together a redefined lifestyle of safety, comfort, and ease to the communities where they are located.
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon dunks during an NBA regular season game against the Sacramento Kings. (AP Foto/Randall Benton)
DENVER — The Denver Nuggets lost another starter, with forward Aaron Gordon sidelined indefinitely by a strained righ…
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon dunks during an NBA regular season game against the Sacramento Kings. (AP Foto/Randall Benton)
DENVER — The Denver Nuggets lost another starter, with forward Aaron Gordon sidelined indefinitely by a strained right hamstring.
The team announced Sunday that Gordon would be reevaluated in four to six weeks and that “updates will be provided when necessary.” He played only three minutes in a win over the Houston Rockets on Friday night.
This season, the high-flying Gordon is averaging 18.8 points and 5.9 rebounds.
The 30-year-old Gordon has been an integral piece for the Nuggets since being acquired in a trade with Orlando in March 2021. Gordon has formed quite a connection with Nikola Jokic, a perennial triple-double threat, and guard Jamal Murray. The trio helped Denver to its first NBA title in 2023.
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Ahtisa Manalo in her ethereal Val Taguba evening gown during the Top 12 of the 74th Miss Universe. | Photo from MUPH/ Facebook via Inquirer.net
CEBU CITY, Philippines— From a muse to an artist, a symbol of hope to many.
This is how …
Ahtisa Manalo in her ethereal Val Taguba evening gown during the Top 12 of the 74th Miss Universe. | Photo from MUPH/ Facebook via Inquirer.net
CEBU CITY, Philippines— From a muse to an artist, a symbol of hope to many.
This is how Miss Universe 2025 third runner-up Ahtisa Manalo sees herself as she represented the Philippines in the most grandiose pageant stage in the world.
From her humble beginnings, Ahtisa brought her experience and shared how she managed to rise above even with the circumstances she had.
After failing to get the move coveted crown in the universe, Ahtisa still feels like a winner as she gets so much love and support from her kababayans and fans from all over the world.
In her Instagram account she shared that after 18 years of being in the pageant industry, this was her final stint.
“After 18 years, I have finally arrived at my ultimate destination that is to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe stage. My pageant journey may end, but the work continues. Let’s continue fighting for what we want —a better Philippines and a better universe.
This is her way of saying she will continue to work with the Alon Akademie to support and hone the greatness of each child no matter their background.
With pride and joy, Ahtisa made sure the Philippines was well-represented on the most beautiful night last November 11, in Thailand.
From her festival of festivals inspired national costume, to her sultry swimsuit rounds, down to her evening gown looks, she was definitely a muse to the Filipinos.
And with that a lot of artists were fond of making artworks of her which made her heart full once again.
In her a separate Instagram post, Ahtisa shared some of the artworks her fans made.
“To everyone whose creativity was reflected in each artwork shared and created, digital or tangible, I want to thank you for immortalizing me in the most beautiful way possible.
It was an honor being a muse to so many talented artists.
,” said Ahtisa.
This was the first time since 2018 that the Philippines made it to the top three in the Miss Universe stage.
Toronto Raptors’ Gradey Dick (1) dunks against the Brooklyn Nets as teammate Scottie Barnes (4) reacts during first half NBA basketball action in Toronto, on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. (Sammy Kogan/The Canadian Press via AP)
TORONTO — Scottie Barnes sc…
Toronto Raptors’ Gradey Dick (1) dunks against the Brooklyn Nets as teammate Scottie Barnes (4) reacts during first half NBA basketball action in Toronto, on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. (Sammy Kogan/The Canadian Press via AP)
TORONTO — Scottie Barnes scored 17 points, Ja’Kobe Walter added a season-high 16 and the Toronto Raptors won for the 11th time in 12 games, beating the Brooklyn Nets 119-109 on Sunday night.
Brandon Ingram had 14 points and Immanuel Quickley scored eight of his 13 in the fourth quarter to help Toronto extend its winning streak to seven.
Toronto’s RJ Barrett scored 16 points before leaving midway through the third because of a sprained right knee. Barrett landed awkwardly after his steal led to a fast break dunk.
Brooklyn’s Tyrese Martin scored a season-high 26 points. Michael Porter Jr. had 25 and Noah Clowney added 22.
Nic Claxton had 10 points and 11 rebounds for the Nets. Claxton had his first career triple-double in Friday night in a win at Boston.
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Toronto’s Sandro Mamukelashvili scored 12 points in his first start of the season, Gradey Dick also scored 12 points and Jamal Shead had 11.
Porter’s layup with 4:24 left in the fourth tied it at 104, but Quickley made two 3-pointers as Toronto replied with a 10-0 run over the next 2 1/2 minutes.
Ingram reached 10,000 career points with a 3 in the second, his only basket of the period. Toronto led 65-58 at the intermission.
Mamukelashvili started for center Jakob Poeltl, who sat because of a sore lower back. Rookie Collin Murray-Boyles returned after missing two games because of a sore right knee.
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In a vibrant celebration of World Contraception Day, Organon Philippines and the Quezon City government reaffirmed their shared commitment to empowering Filipino women through informed reproductive health choices. The “Take Control: Buhay Mo, Iplano Mo…
In a vibrant celebration of World Contraception Day, Organon Philippines and the Quezon City government reaffirmed their shared commitment to empowering Filipino women through informed reproductive health choices. The “Take Control: Buhay Mo, Iplano Mo” initiative gathered hundreds of women for a day centered on agency, awareness, and supportive community action.
Quezon City leaders, Organon representatives, health advocates, and community members unite in a meaningful Commitment Exercise during World Contraception Day 2025, pledging to champion informed reproductive health choices and empower more women to “Take Control” of their futures.
Empowerment Through Choice
At the heart of the celebration was a powerful message: women deserve the knowledge and the freedom to decide what’s right for their bodies and their futures. Organon Asia & the Pacific Medical Director Dr. Christina P. Crisologo emphasized that reproductive empowerment begins with access: to accurate information, to a range of family planning methods, and to supportive health systems.
“Family planning is about choice, control, and confidence,” she said. “When women are equipped with the right information and healthcare, they can make decisions that open doors to healthier, more secure futures for themselves and their families.”
Energy and empowerment take center stage as participants join the EmpowHER Zumba session, turning movement into a celebration of confidence, choice, and reproductive health. The activity highlights that when women feel supported and informed, they gain the power to plan their lives with freedom and control.
Quezon City as a Model for Reproductive Health
The partnership with the local government highlighted Quezon City’s strong track record as one of the country’s leading LGUs in reproductive health. Representing Mayor Joy Belmonte, Dr. Elenita R. Plata, Quezon City Health Department’s Medical Coordinator for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health & Nutrition, reaffirmed the city’s longstanding belief that equitable healthcare is foundational to community well-being.
She noted QC’s consistent investment in reproductive health programs, from accessible health centers and trained providers to aggressive information campaigns and family planning services that are available to all. These efforts have translated into real impact, including the reduction of maternal mortality cases from 135 in 2022 to 117 in 2024.
“Family planning is a public health priority in Quezon City. By preventing unplanned pregnancies, we prevent avoidable maternal deaths,” she said. “Awareness leads to access and access saves lives.”
Educating Women on Modern Family Planning Options
A central part of the program was an expert-led discussion by Dr. Khristine Vine Dubhe Jadjuli, an OB-Gynecologist, who walked participants through various modern contraceptive options. She stressed that reproductive health should never be approached with a one-size-fits-all mindset.
“Every woman’s body and life situation is unique,” she explained. “Proper consultation with a healthcare professional is essential to choosing the method that works best for you.”
This educational component reinforced the day’s core mission, empowering women to make informed decisions grounded in science, personal preference, and accessible support.
Turning Personal Commitments Into Global Impact
The event culminated in a “Commitment Exercise,” where attendees pledged to advocate for informed reproductive health choices in their own communities. For every pledge, Organon donates US$1 to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), extending the impact from Quezon City to vulnerable women across the Asia-Pacific region.
By day’s end, one message stood firm: reproductive health is not just a policy or a medical service, it is a pathway to women’s empowerment. Through partnerships like this and with LGUs like Quezon City leading by example, more women are gaining the knowledge, confidence, and support to shape the lives they envision.
MANILA, Philippines — The commander of the Philippine National Police – Drug Enforcement Group Calabarzon Special Operations Unit (PNP DEG 4A SOU) and 14 of his officers were relieved from their posts following the alleged robbery-rape of a Grade 9 stu…
MANILA, Philippines — The commander of the Philippine National Police – Drug Enforcement Group Calabarzon Special Operations Unit (PNP DEG 4A SOU) and 14 of his officers were relieved from their posts following the alleged robbery-rape of a Grade 9 student in Cavite.
The alleged robbery-rape involving the 14 officers and the victim identified only as “Nena” occurred in Barangay Talaba 3, Bacoor City last Saturday morning, according to a police report sent to reporters.
“As an initial action, I relieved the commander, I relieved the 14 personnel. They are all now under the admin holding office of PDEG… Ang ni-relieve natin is 15 to include the commander for command responsibility,” DEG Director Brig. Gen. Elmer Ragay said in a press briefing in Camp Crame on Monday.
(As an initial action, I relieved the commander, I relieved the 14 personnel. They are all now under the admin holding office of PDEG… We relieved 15 to include the commander for command responsibility.)
“The operation was covered by yung target intel packet involving one personality na target sa Bacoor. However, hindi nag-materialize yung buy-bust operation, nakatakas [yung subject] at yung complainant [in the rape case] is the girlfriend of the would-be subject of the buy-bust,” Ragay added.
(The operation was covered by a target intel packet involving one personality who is the target in Bacoor. However, the buy-bust operation did not materialize, the subject escaped and the complainant in the rape case is the girlfriend of the would-be subject of the buy-bust.)
The PNP DEG director said the 15 officers will be facing an administrative case.
The police report further noted the 14 officers are awaiting a complaint for violation of Republic Act 8353 or the Anti-Rape Law before the Bacoor City Prosecutor.
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According to the police report, the 14 officers are a police colonel, a police lieutenant, a police master sergeant, five police corporals and seven patrolmen.
Eight of the suspects have been arrested and six others are at large, Ragay said, adding: “Four of them (at-large suspects) are sending feelers for possible voluntary surrender.”
Meanwhile, according to Ragay, the victim had been placed under the custody and protection of the Bacoor City Police Station.
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) on Monday said it deployed its own investigators to look into the case.
“Based on initial reports received by the Commission, Napolcom noted that the alleged operation conducted by the officers had no coordination, no documented authorization, and no record of any legitimate police activity at the time,” Napolcom said.
“As part of its mandate, Napolcom is now preparing to file administrative charges should the ongoing investigation establish probable cause,” it added, noting the administrative cases may be for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.
Napolcom further said the victim, will file an administrative complaint before the commission tomorrow. /gsg
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in a scene from “Wicked: For Good.” Image: Courtesy of Universal Pictures
Universal Pictures’ two-part “Wicked” gamble continues to defy gravity at the box office. Just a year after part one brought…
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in a scene from “Wicked: For Good.” Image: Courtesy of Universal Pictures
Universal Pictures’ two-part “Wicked” gamble continues to defy gravity at the box office. Just a year after part one brought droves of audiences to movie theaters around the country, even more people bought opening weekend tickets to see the epic conclusion, “Wicked: For Good.” According to studio estimates on Sunday, “Wicked: For Good” earned $150 million from North American theaters in its first days in theaters and $226 million globally.
Not only is it the biggest opening ever for a Broadway musical adaptation, unseating the record set by the first film’s $112 million launch, it’s also the second biggest debut of the year behind “A Minecraft Movie’s” $162 million.
“The results are just fantastic,” said Jim Orr, who heads domestic distribution for Universal. “Some films can deliver a false positive when tickets go on sale early but these results speak for themselves.”
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Universal began rolling out “Wicked: For Good” in theaters earlier this week, with previews on Monday ($6.1 million from 1,050 theaters) and Wednesday ($6.5 million from 2,300 theaters). By Friday it was playing in 4,115 North American locations and had raked in $68.6 million. IMAX showings accounted for $15.5 million, or 11%, of its domestic haul — a November record for the company.
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Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in a scene from “Wicked: For Good.” Image: Courtesy of Universal Pictures
IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said in a statement that the strong market share shows, “our momentum carries into demos and genres beyond our traditional core, including families.”
As with the first film, women powered opening weekend, making up around 71% of ticket buyers according to PostTrak exit polls. Critics were somewhat mixed on the final chapter, but audiences weren’t: An overwhelming 83% of audiences said it was one they would “definitely recommend” to friends. As far as foot traffic is concerned, the box office tracker EntTelligence estimates that about 2 million more people came out for “Wicked: For Good’s” first weekend than for “Wicked’s.”
Jon M. Chu directed both “Wicked” films, starring Cynthia Ervio and Ariana Grande. The first film made over $758.7 million worldwide and received 10 Oscar nominations (winning two, for costume and production design). The question is how high “Wicked: For Good” can soar. Combined, the two films cost around $300 million to produce, not including marketing and promotion costs.
“The first film paved the way,” Orr said. “It’s really become a cultural event I think audiences are going to be flocking to theaters for quite some time to come.”
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Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in a scene from “Wicked: For Good.” Image: Courtesy of Universal Pictures
Two other films also opened in wide release this weekend, but further down on the charts behind a buffet of holdovers. Searchlight Pictures opened its Brendan Fraser film “Rental Family” in 1,925 theaters where it earned $3.3 million. The Finnish action film “Sisu: Road to Revenge,” a Sony release, also played in 2,222 theaters. It earned an estimated $2.6 million.
Second place went to “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” with $9.1 million in its second weekend, followed by “Predator: Badlands” with $6.3 million in weekend three. “The Running Man” followed in fourth place with $5.8 million, down 65% from its debut last weekend.
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Although this weekend the box office was more of a winner takes all scenario, “Wicked: For Good’s” success is vitally important for the exhibition industry as a whole as it enters the final weeks of the year.
“It sets up a very strong final homestretch of the year,” said Paul Dergarabedian, Comscore’s head of marketplace trends.
After the slow fall season, the Thanksgiving blockbusters could not arrive soon enough. Early next week, “Zootopia 2” enters the mix and is also expected to drive big crowds to the cineplex over the holiday break.
Thanksgiving is often one of the biggest moviegoing frames of the year, Dergarabedian said, and both “Wicked 2” and “Zootopia 2” will benefit. Last year “Wicked,” “Moana 2” and “Gladiator II” helped power a record five-day frame.
The running domestic box office is currently hovering around $7.5 billion, according to Comscore. Before the pandemic, the annual box office would regularly hit $11 billion, but the post-pandemic goal has lessened to $9 billion. The big question now is whether titles like “Wicked: For Good,” “Zootopia 2” and “Avatar:Fire and Ash” can push the industry over that threshold.
Top 10 movies by domestic box office
With final domestic figures being released Monday, this list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore:
1. “Wicked: For Good,” $150 million.
2. “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t,” $9.1 million.
3. “Predator: Badlands,” $6.3 million.
4. “The Running Man,” $5.8 million.
5. “Rental Family,” $3.3 million.
6. “Sisu: Road to Revenge,” $2.6 million.
7. “Regretting You,” $1.5 million.
8. “Nuremberg,” $1.2 million.
9. “Black Phone 2,” $1 million.
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