SocMed star releases debut single tackling toxic ‘borrowing culture’

By Nickie Wang

TIKTOK sensation Bernie Batin, known for his side-splitting comedic skits, clever pranks, and hilarious content, has boldly ventured into uncharted territory as a music artist.

With the release of his debut single, “Utang Mo,” Batin fearlessly delves into the depths of a pervasive societal issue that has plagued the Philippines for far too long—the toxic borrowing culture.

“Utang Mo,” an infectious upbeat track, serves as an anthem that sheds light on the unsettling phenomenon of individuals borrowing money without any intention of fulfilling their obligations. Batin’s audacious lyrics paint a vivid picture of the repercussions that ensue when trust is shattered, relationships crumble,

AWARD-WINNING

Actress Liza Diño and former Chairperson and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) was honored with one of France’s most distinguished titles, the Chevalier in the French Order of Arts and Letters (Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres).

The award recognizes Diño’s exceptional contributions to the film industry and her unwavering dedication to fostering cultural exchanges between the Philippines, France, and the world.

The exclusive and intimate awarding ceremony hosted by French Ambassador Michele Boccoz in her honor took place on June 23 at the Ambassador’s Residence in Makati City, Philippines.

Attended by esteemed colleagues in government and film and Diño’s closest friends and family members, the event marked a momentous occasion in her remarkable career. Ambassador Boccoz, during her speech, praised Diño for her hard work in opening doors for Filipino filmmakers and films and bridging the Philippines and France for cultural exchange, mutual policies, and promotions.

“Liza, you are an actress by profession, but being appointed Chairperson of the Film Development Council of the Philippines seemed like you had a calling in public service to play a role in building government support for the Philippine film industry,” she said in her speech.

“Your energy, talent, and intensive work have been recognized by French professionals and by all French institutions, and this is why we are here tonight,” the Ambassador added before she officially conferred the medal to Diño.

Those who witnessed the awarding ceremony included award-winning directors Brillante Mendoza, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Bibeth Orteza, and Mark Meily, actresses Angel Aquino, Bela Padilla, RR Herrera, and Raquel Villavicencio, filmmakers and producers Bianca Balbuena, Bradley Liew, Real Florido, RJ Agustin, and Jim Baltazar of CMB films, Ambassadors Luc Veron of the European Union, and Laure Beaufils of United Kingdom, Instituto Cervantes Director Javier Galvan, and and promises disintegrate into thin air.

“Many people have a habit of borrowing money without any intention of paying it back. This song is dedicated to them,” Batin said.

During a media conference held at Music Box in Quezon City on June 11, Batin appeared before the press as a drag queen and expressed his excitement about the experience.

“I wanted to try it because I used to watch many shows and admired popular drag queens.

I thought to myself that I wanted to give it a try,” Bernie shared and added in jest, “I was pleasantly surprised by my own beauty when I saw myself in the mirror.”

With an impressive following of over fi ve million dedicated fans and an astounding 40 million likes on TikTok, the online star can-