Mapping Manila’s Chinese Temples at Yul Servo Nieto’s Directions VI

On January 15, 2025, the Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel hosted the opening reception of Directions VI, a solo exhibition of Filipino contemporary artist and City of Manila Vice Mayor, honorable Yul Servo Nieto. The event celebrated the fusion of artistry and heritage, as Nieto unveiled a collection of works inspired by Filipino-Chinese traditions and culture.

The event commenced with a warm opening remarks delivered by The Manila Hotel vice president for sales and marketing, Marvin Kim Tan, highlighting the institution’s commitment to supporting local art and culture. Following this, the artist delivered a speech sharing his inspiration behind the art pieces and announced that proceeds from the sales will go towards purchasing vital medical equipment—such as wheelchairs, nebulizers, hearing aids, blood pressure monitors, and walkers—to be donated to those in need. Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna Pangan also delivered a few words before joining Vice Mayor Nieto and Marvin Kim Tan for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, marking the exhibit’s official launch.

In Directions VI, Nieto reinvents his signature metal art pieces with elements of modern Cubism, Cartography or the art of map-making, and Assemblage art. Moving beyond his earlier focus on planes, lines, and negative space, he now incorporates everyday objects—bolts, nuts, screws, and hinges—as symbolic markers. These striking pieces pay tribute to Manila’s cultural richness and include depictions of Manila’s Chinese temples and historic districts like Binondo and San Nicolas.

The exhibition’s centerpiece, Temple Splendor, reimagines Chinese temples with golden nuts arranged on a grid-like map of Manila. Complementing the wall-mounted works are two free-standing sculptures—Nest of Healing and Icons of Heritage. Forged from bronze and gold-plated alloys, these pieces explore themes of healing and cultural preservation.

As the Chinese New Year draws near, Directions VI pays homage to the rich traditions of Manila’s Chinese temples. These vibrant hubs of cultural activity come alive with lion and dragon dances, incense lighting, and offerings of lucky foods—time-honored practices that reinforce familial and cultural unity.

Nieto’s latest creations highlight the significance of safeguarding these cherished traditions while exploring new dimensions of artistic expression.

Directions VI is now on display at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery. Admission is free. For interested buyers, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, or email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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LG introduces advancs commercial display advertising solutions for B2B clients

LG Business Cloud Welcomes LG DOOH Ads and LG Pro:Centric Stay, Providing More Tailored Options for Diverse B2B Environments

LG Electronics (LG) will unveil an enhanced version of LG Business Cloud, an online platform that streamlines the management and operation of LG commercial displays and hotel TVs, at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 in Barcelona, Spain, from February 4-7. Designed to meet the evolving demands of B2B clients, the platform now offers the LG DOOH Ads advertising solution for digital signage products, as well as the LG Pro:Centric Stay solution for short-term rental businesses.

LG DOOH Ads provides customers with a comprehensive, customizable and easy-to-use solution for commercial display advertising. Users can set key parameters, such as region, price and ad types, and LG DOOH Ads will automatically select suitable advertisements for display. This reduces the need for businesses to find and secure advertisers themselves. In addition, LG’s advertising solution gives users the flexibility to display ads that they have sourced independently. What’s more, LG DOOH Ads uses advanced AI camera technology to analyze viewers’ data such as gender, age and behavior, delivering customized advertisements based on viewer behavior. It also provides analysis reports on the expected effectiveness of these ads.

LG Business Cloud also introduces LG Pro:Centric Stay, a new solution created specifically for short-term rental businesses. LG Pro:Centric Stay complements the existing lineup of software solutions available on the platform, including the LG SuperSign Cloud digital signage content management system, LG Pro:Centric Cloud for hotel TVs, and LG ConnectedCare. Tailored for diverse B2B environments, these innovative tools help to ensure greater efficiency and flexibility in signage management.

Worldwide, LG continues to support major B2B clients with its seamlessly integrated signage software solutions. Mexico-based hospitality company, Grand Velas, employs LG Pro:Centric Cloud, a solution designed expressly for LG Hotel TVs. LG Pro:Centric Cloud simplifies content management and enhances the guest experience, allowing operators to provide personalized information – such as targeted discount offers for honeymooners or shuttle departure times for tour groups – to each room.

A prominent Spanish telecommunications provider and a well-known U.S. fast-food franchise have embraced LG ConnectedCare, a solution that delivers convenient and intuitive remote display management. Significantly improving operational efficiency, LG’s solution reduces the need to individually adjust each display and enables proactive issue resolution, providing timely email alerts to system managers in the event that a screen error is detected.

LG’s impressive digital signage software solutions – including the newly-added LG DOOH Ads and LG Pro:Centric Stay – are all accessible through the LG Business Cloud platform.

“With the arrival of LG DOOH Ads and LG Pro:Centric Stay on LG Business Cloud, companies can now manage their digital displays more efficiently,” said Paik Ki-mun, head of Information Display Business of the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “We aim to provide global B2B clients with differentiated signage software through LG Business Cloud, enabling remote display management and personalized content distribution.”

Attendees of LG's session at ISE 2025 who verify their subscription to the LG Business Cloud platform will receive an exclusive 50 percent discount coupon for the solution subscriptions.

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“Paddington in Peru” wins the heart of moviegoers with a 93% Rotten Tomatoes score

As with the first two highly acclaimed Paddington films, Paddington in Peru has been garnering praises from audiences and film critics for its unique story, animation, and humor. Paddington in Peru sees the iconic bear in a brand new adventure as he tries to get back to his roots and solve a mystery involving his family in hist birthplace of Peru.

Variety talks about how Paddington in Peru will appeal to moviegoing kids, writing, “Paddington in Peru is, as any Paddington adventure should be, fast and buoyant and disarmingly sunny in a way that viewers who weren’t alive — or at least of cinemagoing age — for the 2017 release of Paddington 2 will lap up.”

Paddington’s thoughtful and beautiful animation was noted by The Hollywood Reporter, which writes, “Although returning players Hugh Bonneville, Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin as the other three Brown family members make significant contributions along with Mortimer, no one can hold the screen with a hard stare like Paddington. He pulls off one his best here, a perfectly calibrated study in facial movement, lighting (particularly in the brown-gold glitter of his eyes) and comic timing.”

The BBC praises how Paddington in Peru maintains the heart of the story from previous films, even in the brand new setting. “Dotted with waterfalls and piranhas, double crosses and Inca riddles, the Browns' jungle quest is the subject of a wholesome, well-constructed, richly coloured adventure yarn with just enough of the eccentric charm, animated interludes and musical numbers that make the Paddington series what it is.”

Slant mirrors these sentiments, while also acknowledging the film’s message about familial roots and finding what home truly means. “While it’s never didactic or heavy-handed about its messaging, Paddington in Peru also offers an idea of Britishness that’s multifaceted and modern, as the titular bear celebrates his official status as a citizen of the U.K. while reconnecting with his Peruvian roots.

Set off with friends, family, and the wonderful Paddington, as Paddington in Peru arrives in Philippine theaters on January 29. Watch the trailer here:

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LG OLED Becomes the Digital Canvas for Philippine National Artist Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera at the BenCab Museum

Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera
with the LG OLED evo AI G4 at the BenCab Museum Larawan Hall

In a groundbreaking collaboration, LG Philippines and National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Reyes Cabrera have joined forces to bring advanced OLED technology to the BenCab Museum in Tuba, Benguet. This partnership redefines how art is experienced, introducing a cutting-edge digital platform for Filipino creativity.

A Seamless Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
The lobby of the BenCab Museum now greets visitors with the LG OLED Posé, a 55-inch masterpiece of design and engineering. Its self-lit OLED technology, vibrant colors, and the α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K make it an elegant stage for showcasing digital art. Wrapped in muted beige fabric with soft lines, the Posé blends effortlessly with the museum's modern aesthetic, setting the tone for an immersive visual journey.

Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera
with the LG OLED 55” Posé at the BenCab Museum’s reception hall

In the Larawan Hall, the LG OLED evo AI G4 transforms the way art is presented. Its advanced α11 AI Processor and Brightness Booster Max reveal intricate textures and vivid colors with breathtaking clarity, perfectly adapting to the room's lighting. The One Wall Design seamlessly integrates with the hall’s curated display, making the TV a stunning centerpiece for traditional and contemporary Filipino artworks alike.

Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera
with the LG OLED evo AI G4 at the BenCab Museum Larawan Hall

A Shared Vision: Honoring Filipino Creativity
LG Philippines’ Managing Director, Mr. Nakhyun Seong, expressed pride in this collaboration: “At LG, we believe in empowering artists to push boundaries. By integrating OLED technology, we’re creating opportunities for a new kind of digital art, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.”

BenCab echoed this sentiment, saying, “LG’s OLED TVs open new avenues for presenting art in ways that resonate with modern audiences. This partnership enhances the museum’s ability to inspire and educate, while honoring Filipino culture.”

The BenCab Museum enriches its visitors' connection to the Philippines' vibrant cultural history, fostering creativity and promoting art education. These efforts align seamlessly with LG's mission of “Innovation for a Better Life,” celebrating Filipino culture and inspiring future generations.

Through this partnership, LG Philippines and the BenCab Museum invite audiences to experience art in its most vivid form—a tribute to Filipino ingenuity brought to life through cutting-edge technology.

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LG’S world-first transparent and true wireless 4K OLED TV delivers new screen experience

Transitioning between Transparent to Opaque Screen, LG SIGNATURE OLED T Introduces New Viewing Possibilities and a New Era in Home Entertainment

LG Electronics (LG) is set for the global launch of the 77-inch LG SIGNATURE OLED T, the world’s first transparent and true wireless 4K OLED TV. This groundbreaking model will be available in the U.S. this December, with additional markets to follow.

Unveiled at CES® 2024, the LG SIGNATURE OLED T represents a monumental leap in both technology and design innovation, reflecting LG’s relentless drive to delivering new and better.

Its cutting-edge self-lit screen can transform from transparent to opaque screen; a unique ability that provides the OLED viewing experience while offering greater freedom in living space. Recognized globally, LG’s transparent OLED made TIME’s Best Inventions 2024 list and received a total of five CES 2024 Innovation Awards, including a Best of Innovation honor.

Users can effortlessly switch between transparent and opaque modes at the touch of a button, unlocking unique possibilities for entertainment and space design. When in transparent mode, the OLED T offers a futuristic content experience that must be seen to be believed. The screen not only creates the illusion of content floating in mid-air but also produces a mesmerizing effect by “merging” the on-screen visuals with the surrounding space.

LG OLED T further elevates the user experience with a suite of versatile features that optimally leverage the unique advantages of a transparent OLED screen, enhancing its distinctive value.

One standout feature is T-Objet, an Always-On-Display (AOD) mode that transforms the screen into a transparent digital canvas, ideal for showcasing artwork, videos or photos in outstanding color and clarity. Complementing this is T-Bar, a sleek info-ticker that appears along the bottom edge of the screen, providing sports results, IoT device statuses, weather forecasts or song title information. The rest of the screen remains unused when T-Bar is active, presenting a clean, uncluttered look and a clear view of the space behind LG’s “virtually invisible” display. For added convenience, T-Home offers a user-friendly interface that delivers a well-organized overview of available services, as well as quick access to apps, settings and other features.

Despite its stunning 77-inch screen size, the LG OLED T enhances the feeling of space within a room, providing a sense of openness that conventional TVs simply cannot. Its transparency allows it to be placed centrally without being obtrusive or positioned in front of windows without blocking natural light or views of the outdoors.

The transparent 4K OLED screen, combined with LG’s true wireless video and audio transmission technology, promises not only the aesthetic value but also an enhanced home entertainment experience. Free from tangled cables, the device delivers an immersive, distraction-free viewing environment.

The OLED T advances innovation with LG’s proprietary Zero Connect Box, a visually lossless wireless video and audio transmission solution* without latency ensuring a seamless viewing experience. By supporting 4K at 120Hz variable refresh rate, OLED T has been certified by NVIDIA G-SYNC® Compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium to eliminate tearing and stuttering for the most dynamic, true-to-life gaming experience.

The LG SIGNATURE OLED T carries forward LG’s legacy of providing superior picture quality and immersive viewing experiences – hallmarks of LG OLED TVs since the very first model hit the market in 2013. Building on over a decade of OLED innovation, LG’s one-of-a-kind TV brings images fully to life with vibrant, precisely reproduced colors and incredible contrast. Powered by LG’s advanced α (Alpha) 11 AI processor, the OLED T intelligently optimizes both picture and sound quality, delivering unparalleled visual and auditory experiences.

“LG SIGNATURE OLED T is an exceptional user-focused innovation that offers a distinctive, multi-faceted viewing experience and unprecedented spatial flexibility,” said Park Hyoung-sei, president of the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “LG remains at the forefront of innovation by combining its industry-leading OLED technology with unique form factors, transparent screens, wireless connectivity and more, delivering unparalleled, life-enriching advancements no other TV maker can replicate.”

*Wireless transmission refers to the transferring of video and audio signals between a TV screen and the Zero Connect Box. Visually lossless, based on internal test results with ISO/IEC 29170-2 and measurement results may vary depending on connection status.

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LG and Xbox to expand cloud gaming experience on LG Smart TVs

Brings Xbox Cloud Gaming Experience to its Newly Launching Gaming Portal

LG Electronics (LG) has announced a partnership with Xbox, providing players access to hundreds of games with the Xbox app on LG Smart TVs. Owners of LG’s latest Smart TVs1 will be able to effortlessly discover and play a wide selection of PC and console games from industry-leading partners, and soon Xbox, through the new Gaming Portal.2 This versatile, gaming-centric hub is designed as an all-in-one solution for seamless navigation and personalized gaming, both for the latest AAA games and casual webOS app games.

For gaming enthusiasts, LG Smart TV users can soon explore the Gaming Portal for direct access to hundreds of games with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, including popular titles like Call of Duty®: BlackOps 6, and highly anticipated releases like Avowed. With Game Pass Ultimate, players will also be able to stream a catalog of select Xbox games they own such as NBA 2K25 or Hogwarts Legacy.

“We are thrilled to announce the partnership with Xbox, which aims to enrich the gaming experience on LG Smart TVs with a broader selection of popular games,” said Chris Jo, senior vice president of platform business at the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “The Gaming Portal will provide users with a seamless, convenient and exciting way to enhance the gaming experience on LG Smart TVs.”

“Our partnership with LG will help players easily discover and play games through the new Gaming Portal on LG Smart TVs,” said Lori Wright, Corporate Vice President of Xbox. “We’re fortunate to have a great partner in LG who will bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players, letting new and longtime Xbox'ers find their favorite games and play with friends across screens.”

Powered by webOS and easily accessible from the Home Screen, the Gaming Portal’s intuitive interface ensures that users can effortlessly discover and enjoy their favorite games with ease. LG’s Gaming Portal provides a comprehensive overview with an app list that includes cloud gaming apps, webOS app games playable with the remote controller, recently played titles, the top 10 most popular games, editor’s picks, and other tailored, user-friendly gaming experiences.

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LG achieves 13th consecutive year in Dow Jones Sustainability World Index

Only South Korean Company Recognized in Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics Category for 13 Years

LG Electronics (LG) has once again secured its position in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the thirteenth consecutive year. The DJSI World ranks the top 10 percent of the largest 2,500 global companies based on their economic, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, serving as a critical benchmark for investors assessing corporate sustainability.

Notably, LG earned the highest overall score in the Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics industry category. Furthermore, it remains the only South Korean company to be included in this category for 13 years running.

Additionally, LG has been included in the DJSI Asia Pacific (top 20 percent of the 600 largest companies in the Asia-Pacific region) and DJSI Korea (top 30 percent of the 200 largest companies in Korea) for 15 and 16 consecutive years, respectively.

LG received high evaluations across various ESG areas, including environmental policy and management, human rights management, human resource management, customer relations, supply chain management and product responsibility management.

Under the ESG management vision of Better Life for All, LG is carrying out various activities with the strategy of 3C for the planet (Carbon neutrality, Circularity, and Clean technology) and 3D for people (Decent workplace, Diversity & inclusion, and Design for all).

To achieve its 3C goals for the planet, LG has set ambitious targets, including reaching carbon neutrality in its product manufacturing process by 2030 and transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.

Specifically, LG plans to reduce direct greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1) and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 2) in the product production stage by 54.6 percent compared to 2017 levels. This will be accomplished through process improvements, the introduction of energy-saving technologies and the use of renewable energy. Notably, LG was the first company in the home appliance industry to obtain UN carbon credits in 2015.

In addition, LG is focused on reducing the unit greenhouse gas emissions of its seven major product groups (TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, home and system air conditioners, and monitors) by 20 percent compared to 2020 levels during the product use stage (Scope 3). This commitment involves various activities aimed at improving the energy efficiency of individual products, thereby reducing overall carbon emissions.

As a member of the UN Global Compact and the Responsible Business Alliance, LG complies with international human rights and labor standards and is enhancing its human rights management processes to respond to strengthening global ESG-related legislation.

In the ESG evaluation and rating announcement results published by the Korea Corporate Governance Service this year, LG received an overall A grade for four consecutive years. LG also received an A grade for five consecutive years in the ESG evaluation conducted by the global ESG evaluation agency Morgan Stanley Capital International, gaining recognition for its ESG management performance from credible domestic and international institutions.

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Restart Healthy in 2025 at SM Malls in the East Metro

Kickstart the new year with a focus on health and wellness at SM City Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown! These malls are your ultimate destinations for fitness finds, activewear, and energizing activities that set you up for a healthy 2025.

Step into Style with Athleisure Fits
Upgrade your fitness wardrobe with the latest sneakers and activewear from top brands like Adidas, Anta, and multi-brand shops in Sports Central and SM Store. Whether you’re a runner, a gym enthusiast, or simply embracing athleisure for everyday comfort, you’ll find a variety of options to match your style and fitness goals.

Energize Your Routine with Fitness Dance Classes
Feel the rhythm and burn those calories with weekly fitness dance classes for all ages at the 10 o’ Clock Habit in SM City Masinag, San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown. These high-energy sessions are perfect for beginners and seasoned dancers alike, offering a fun and effective way to stay active while meeting new friends. Check the schedule at each mall and join the fitness fun!

All-in-One Sports Facilities at SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Take your fitness game to the next level at SM Center Antipolo Downtown as it features multi-purpose courts perfect for badminton, pickleball, basketball, and volleyball clinics. Whether you’re honing your skills or just trying something new, these facilities are great for sports enthusiasts of all ages.

Fuel Your Fitness Goals

Stay nourished and energized with healthy dining options available. From fresh fruits, yogurts, smoothies, and salads to even dietary supplements, there’s something for every health-conscious foodie for guilt-free indulgences.

Shop Smart, Live Healthy

Start 2025 on the right track by exploring wellness essentials at these East Metro malls. From fitness gear to health supplements, SM Malls have everything you need to support an active and balanced lifestyle. Don’t miss out on seasonal promotions and discounts to make your health journey even more rewarding.

Make SM Malls in the East Metro your partner in health this 2025. Visit today and embark on a year of wellness and vitality!

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SM mallgoers donate record-breaking 50,000 Bears of Joy to kids in need

SM mallgoers’ kindness makes this holiday season brighter, with 50,000 Bears of Joy spreading happiness to children.

The SM mallgoers achieved something truly remarkable—donating 50,000 SM Bears of Joy to children in underserved communities. In partnership with Toy Kingdom, this milestone was part of a record-breaking campaign where 100,000 bears were sold, made possible by the collective generosity of mallgoers who came together to make the season brighter for those in need.

Pure joy captured in a single moment—thank you to SM Supermalls shoppers for making this holiday season extra special for these kids from Marikina Elementary School

Children from Sitio Pintong Bukawe light up with excitement as they receive their cuddly SM Bears of Joy through the kindness of shoppers of SM City Masinag

An annual initiative of SM Cares, the SM Bears of Joy campaign empowers shoppers to spread holiday cheer by purchasing a pair of specially designed plush bears—one to keep and another to share. This year’s theme, “Hug-a-Mood,” introduced four charming bears: Mikah, the curious explorer; Ash, the gentle and shy friend; Bree, the spirited adventurer; and Ronnie, the creative dreamer. Each bear brought its own personality, symbolizing the warmth and joy of the season.

Giving back this holiday season, SM City San Mateo brings joy to children and residents of Cottolengo Filipino in Montalban, Rizal

Beyond the numbers, the true impact lies in the ripples of care created by this campaign. Each donated bear represents the kindness and generosity of a community united in its commitment to giving back. These simple acts of giving spread not only joy but also hope, showing that small gestures can create meaningful change across communities.

This initiative also reminds us that the holidays are a time to create special memories, especially for children who may not always feel the season’s merriness. Through the unwavering compassion of SM shoppers, the Bears of Joy initiative delivered smiles, warmth, and a powerful message of love to children nationwide.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

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LG introduces 2025 OLED evo lineup with vibrant brightness and AI-powered personalization

LG’s New OLED evo Exemplifies Visual Perfection With Striking Brilliance and Unrivaled Blacks, Along With AI Personalization for a Tailored User Experience

LG Electronics (LG) today unveiled its 2025 OLED evo lineup, highlighting a range of advanced TV offerings, including the world’s first true wireless OLED evo M5, and OLED evo G5 models. With LG’s latest α (Alpha) 11 AI processor Gen21 at its core, the latest OLED evo models present unparalleled OLED picture quality with impeccable blacks, exceptional brightness and advanced processing capabilities. Powered by AI-driven personalization, the LG OLED evo offers a customized experience tailored to each user and showcases the pinnacle of OLED innovation for an elevated home entertainment experience.

The latest OLED evo TVs feature LG’s upgraded Brightness Booster Ultimate technology, which enhances light control architecture and light-boosting algorithms to achieve brightness three times higher2 than conventional OLED models. This significant boost in brightness brings fine details into focus across different brightness levels, resulting in a more vibrant and lifelike viewing experience.

LG OLED evo refines every detail to perfection with flawless blacks, accurate color reproduction and stable performance. The latest models achieve top-notch black levels in both bright and dark settings, producing vibrant and accurate colors. These advanced OLED displays have received UL Solutions’ “Perfect Black”, “Perfect Color” verification and are certified by Intertek for 100 percent color fidelity. The 2025 OLED evo TVs also boast rapid brightness and color temperature stabilization, earning TÜV Rheinland’s “Quick Stability with Image Quality” certification.3 This ensures users experience exceptional picture quality immediately upon powering on the TV.

New for 2025, LG’s latest OLED evo 4K TVs support Filmmaker Mode® with Ambient Light Compensation4 – an advanced version of Filmmaker Mode developed in collaboration with the creative community. This feature accurately detects the lighting conditions of the viewing environment and automatically adjusts the picture settings to maintain the filmmaker’s original intent, delivering a truly cinematic experience in various lighting conditions.

Elevating its reputation as the ultimate choice for gamers, the latest LG OLED evo TVs boast several features tailored to gaming, including the industry’s first 4K 165Hz5 Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), certified by NVIDIA® G-SYNC® and AMD FreeSync Premium. The OLED evo models enhance gaming with tear-free, stutter-free gameplay, minimal input lag and up to 165 frames per second. The OLED evo TVs are the first to receive ClearMR 10000 certification by VESA, ensuring flawless motion and seamless experiences even during fast-paced action sequences.

Powered by the advanced Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen2, the 2025 OLED evo models provide enhanced picture and sound quality. Deep learning algorithms meticulously analyze and refine low-resolution and low-quality images, enhancing them to a higher definition with pixel-level precision for natural and sharper visuals. Additionally, Dynamic Tone Mapping Professional offers expert-level control over HDR10 content for professional creators, allowing precise customization and fine-tuning of images for accurate color and detail representation in all viewing environments.

Complementing the impressive visuals, AI Sound Pro delivers rich, immersive audio with virtual 11.1.2 channels of surround sound, adjusting the tonal balance and clarity for an immersive, tailored listening experience. Designed with personalization in mind, LG’s newest OLED TVs boast AI-powered features that understand and adapt to individual audio and visual preferences. By analyzing over 1.6 billion image settings and 40 million sound profiles, the AI Picture/Sound Wizard tailors audio and visual modes for each user, ensuring a truly customized entertainment experience. These AI-driven features represent a new level of smart TV innovation, making the 2025 OLED evo models the most intuitive and user-centric TVs on the market.

The user experience is further elevated with a personalized journey that begins the moment the TV is powered on, courtesy of the AI Remote. AI Welcome greets users by name and provides tailored recommendations based on their preferences and viewing habits, while AI Voice ID adds convenience by recognizing individual voices, automatically switching profiles, and delivering content suggestions that match personal tastes. Finding content on LG’s newest OLED evo TVs has never been easier, with AI Search7 leveraging a Large Language Model (LLM) to understand conversational context and uncover subtle user intentions. Access to Microsoft Copilot further streamlines the process, allowing users to efficiently find and organize complex information using contextual cues. For an even smoother and more engaging experience, the AI Chatbot proactively identifies potential user challenges and offers timely, effective solutions. What’s more, the Generative Image Gallery8 allows users to create custom backgrounds using voice commands, adding a personal and creative touch to the viewing experience.

OLED evo’s user-friendly webOS interface provides a personalized and streamlined experience to access content and settings more easily. The new home screen is faster, more convenient and increasingly personalized with enhanced UI and categories. Additionally, webOS now supports multi-platform integration with the Home Hub, seamlessly connecting with multi ecosystems, ThinQ and Google Home, for control of various IoT devices. By bringing together these versatile ecosystems and broadening cross-platform capabilities, users can effortlessly manage and control their smart home ecosystem through a single, intuitive interface on their LG’s latest smart TVs. Extending benefits beyond the initial purchase, the webOS Re:New program allows LG Smart TV owners enjoy the most up-to-date TV experience for the next five years.

LG has presented the first-ever OLED TV capable of transferring audio and video wirelessly, transforming the home entertainment experience with unmatched audiovisual performance. As the world’s first true wireless OLED TV, the latest M5 series delivers wireless audio and video transmission at up to 144Hz6 without latency or loss in picture and sound quality. Certified by NVIDIA G-SYNC®, this wireless OLED TV ensures a tear-free, stutter-free gaming experience, even during fast-paced action at 4K 144Hz. Building on this innovation, LG has extended its advanced wireless audiovisual technology to QNED TVs, bringing its core value of technological excellence and cutting-edge innovation to more customers.

LG’s OLED evo models have been recognized for their customer value and performance improvement, earning multiple awards including the CES 2025 Best of Innovation Award (for 83G5 models) and the Honoree title (83M5 model) in the Video Display category.

To stay up to date with all of LG’s announcements at CES, visit website and LG Global YouTube channel.

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LG presents its latest innovations powered by "Affectionate Intelligence" at CES 2025

Company’s AI Provides Personalized Experiences that Transform and Enrich Everyday Life, Making You Feel Understood

LG Electronics (LG) is showcasing its latest innovations powered by AI at CES® 2025. Themed “Life’s Good 24/7 with Affectionate Intelligence,” LG’s booth at the Las Vegas Convention Center illustrates how the company is providing incredible convenience and new customer experiences by seamlessly integrating AI into everyday life.

At the entrance of the booth, LG’s theme comes to life with the dynamic and immersive Brand Façade: a massive semi-circular display featuring LG Kinetic LED Media Art. LG offers its customizable Kinetic LED products as part of a total solution for customers, providing everything from the initial design to post-installation services. The company’s innovative displays deliver exceptional, multisensory experiences with stunning picture quality and the ability to perform elegant kinetic movements in sync with video and audio content.

LG’s booth at CES 2025 is divided into distinct zones representing morning, noon, afternoon, evening and night, all grounded in LG’s pursuit of “Space-as-a-Service” to expand the horizons of living spaces. Each area demonstrates how LG’s AI-powered innovations can enrich people’s daily routines. Visitors will experience firsthand how LG’s intelligent home appliances, smart living solutions and cutting-edge technologies combine to create around-the-clock comfort, convenience and connection.

A Morning with LG AI
The Rise & Shine (LG AI Home) zone showcases LG’s vision for a seamless start to the day, enabled by LG’s Affectionate Intelligence and On-device AI Hub. Visitors can explore an Intelligent Home that understands and adapts to their needs, offering proactive solutions to make each day smoother, and a personalized living environment that is both safe and hyper-connected. Visitors can witness innovations like face and voice recognition in the bedroom, which provide personalized content and wellness insights based on sleep patterns. The technologies even adapts to user’s routines thanks to automatic situational recognition and offers easy-to-digest data and insight with On-device AI hub, where sensitive information is securely protected by LG Shield.

The Connect & Cruise (Car-Commercial) zone focuses on LG’s AI-driven mobility and commercial innovations for life on the move. Here, visitors can experience AI-based in-cabin sensing solution, Vision AI mobility concept that is designed to bring greater safety, convenience and hyper-personalization to the future mobility experience.

Noon – the Perfect Time for Work and Play
The Work & Create (Intelligent Office) zone exemplifies AI’s ability to transform work into a smarter, more streamlined experience. Visitors can get hands-on experience with LG gram Pro 2-in-1, while experts demonstrate how to maximize AI capabilities using the LG CreateBoard. This presentation highlights the simplicity of generating document-based AI insights and leveraging AI-driven system controls.

The Gear up & Game (Gaming Playground) zone is an AI-optimized environment where visitors will discover an unparalleled gaming experience. LG’s ThinQ ON, which can connect with a variety of IoT sensors and devices, makes it easy to create a personalized gaming station and control mood settings with just the push of a button. Visitors can also try out the advanced webOS smart gaming monitor, including the LG UltraGear™ OLED Bendable Gaming Monitor.

A Rejuvenating Afternoon with Innovations that Inspire
The Inspire & Innovate (LG Labs Studio) zone is a space that inspires creativity and promotes personal well-being through innovative solutions, including AI-driven technologies. Visitors can explore personalized “ambient solutions” that align with their unique lifestyles and tastes, and see how LG’s products can transform a living space into a chic café, a relaxing retreat or a premium personal cinema. In addition, the zone also features the MX platform, which expands the definition of home solutions by creating a new type of multipurpose space. Utilizing a modular package system, it integrates LG’s innovative appliance hardware and AI technologies to transform the vehicle cabin into a flexible area.

Throughout the zone, visuals and ambient content are generated by EXAONE, LG AI Research’s multimodal AI model, creating dynamic atmospheres curated to individual preferences. Trained on 350 million license-free images, EXAONE can generate an infinite number of images with distinct moods. The images displayed in the zone are created using prompts such as “gentle breeze,” “orange summer view” and “cozy, serene atmosphere,” uniquely depicting city and countryside morning scenery in four seasons, resulting in images that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Curate Your Evening, Elevate Your Experience
The Curate & Elevate (Upscale Home Living) zone offers an immersive lifestyle experience that combines AI tech with enduring design and customized luxury. This exclusive space demonstrates how intelligent technology and refined aesthetics can come together to elevate every moment at home. Highlighted within this zone are innovative display products like the LG Signature OLED T. Visitors can see the transparent OLED T showcased alongside iconic clear acrylic pieces from Kartell, a renowned premium furniture brand, introducing innovative user experiences and new possibilities for space curation.

The zone also highlights the second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup, including the brand-new LG SIGNATURE 4-Door French-Door refrigerator with a transparent OLED door panel, as well as the LG SIGNATURE Smart InstaView™ Over-the-Range Microwave and Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range, which pairs timeless design with state-of-the-art AI technology. With the famed Italian designer furniture company, Molteni&C, LG has crafted an exhibit that emphasizes LG SIGNATURE’s “Live Beyond” philosophy. Visitors can learn how the brand’s latest AI-equipped premium products elevate convenience and provide more personalization options than ever before.

Entering the Night area of the zone, visitors will encounter the breathtaking kinetic media chandelier; an installation that boasts 28 units of the transparent LG Signature OLED T. When closed, it highlights the elegance of transparency through synchronized video and lighting; when open, it emphasizes the sleek, thin design of transparent OLED technology. Visitors will be wowed by mesmerizing visuals, including the colorful Cloud Bloom, Aquarium, and stained-glass effects; all synchronized with dynamic lighting and all enhanced by AI assistance to deliver an immersive, 360-degree experience.

The Dive & Vibe zone offers an entertaining, multisensory exploration of AI-powered sound and music. New 2025 xboom speakers on display employ advanced AI calibration technology to automatically adjust sound settings and recommend the best lighting mode according to the space and the mood of the music.

Last but not least, the Escape & Immerse zone takes CES attendees on a journey of personalized content curation and optimal viewing experiences enabled by LG’s α11 AI processor and webOS platform. The zone is divided into an entry area and an experience area, with the latter designed to showcase the capabilities of the α11 and webOS. The entry area features a dramatic man cave atmosphere, where visitors will discover a ‘secret door’ to experience AI of LG TV, where a digital guide showcases the exciting features of the technology. Highlights include the AI-powered Magic Remote, Voice ID and the cinematic picture and sound quality delivered by α11 AI processor technology.

Along with the latest smart life solutions, LG’s exhibition booth at CES 2025 showcases the company’s dedication to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Throughout the booth, visitors will find several trees symbolizing the company’s commitment to ESG. These include the Comfort Kit Tree, the Sustainable Exhibition History Tree, the Energy Tree, the Global Carbon Neutrality Tree and the Sustainable Cycle Tree, which together form a visual representation of LG’s vision for a sustainable future.

Visitors can experience LG’s latest innovations at its CES booth (#15004, Las Vegas Convention Center) from January 7-10. For more information on LG products unveiled at CES 2025, please check out the CES 2025 Press Kit.

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DITO is Now the Fastest Mobile Network in the Philippines!

Say hello to the new fastest mobile network in the country.

DITO Telecommunity, the fastest-growing telco provider in the country, proved its speed superiority in 5G and overall experience as independent mobile analytics company Opensignal awarded DITO as the Fastest Mobile Network in the Philippines, outranking Smart in the speed race.

Based on Opensignal's October 2024 Mobile Network Experience report, DITO dominated the awards and won in 14 categories, exemplifying the young telco as the country's most awarded and fastest in 5G speeds and overall experience.

In terms of speed, DITO sweeps all four speed awards across overall and 5G. DITO confirms its superiority in 5G download speed, boasting a speed of 287.2 Mbps, nearly double Smart's figure trailing with 147.5 Mbps and easily surpassing Globe’s 95.2 Mbps. Users also see the fastest overall download speeds on DITO's network at 34.6 Mbps with the two telco giants Smart and Globe behind at 28.6 Mbps and 20.9 Mbps, respectively.

"Our Filipino users enjoy the fastest speeds on DITO's network," said Pierce Snyder, Sr. Market Research Analyst at Opensignal.

Moreover, DITO was hailed as the No. 1 mobile network for overall and 5G Video Experience, Games Experience, and Voice App Experience. These awards measure how subscribers enjoy seamless standard-definition video streaming, gaming, and quality over-the-top (OTT) voice services.

To cap it off, DITO received massive recognition for its availability, quality, and reliability- a validation of DITO's promise to provide accessible, reliable, and inclusive high-speed connectivity. DITO was recognized as the Philippines' Most Available Mobile Network, both overall and 5G, Most Consistent Network Quality, and Most Reliable Network.

"DITO accumulates the most awards in this report," Snyder said. "Having launched commercial services in March 2021, DITO now dominates the mobile network experience landscape," Snyder added.

According to Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business, these accolades are undisputable proof that DITO is disrupting the market with its products and services, further elevating the overall digital experience of Filipinos. Furthermore, she stressed that these awards highlight DITO's 5G superiority as the sole telco in the Philippines with 5G Standalone (SA) infrastructure.

"From being the #1 Rated Mobile Network in the country by Ookla* to now the Fastest Mobile Network, we’re honored and humbled to receive these massive recognitions, especially the fastest mobile network award from Opensignal, which all attest to our relentless commitment to excellence and innovation at DITO. These awards also show that we are leading the way in delivering the TRUE 5G experience in the country, offering high-speed and reliable connectivity," Jimenez said.


"At DITO, our vision is to create a future-ready Philippines through our next-generation technology. These accolades validate our efforts to make 5G more accessible and a testament that despite the challenges of being a young telco, we're on our way towards achieving the vision we stand for," Jimenez concluded.


These wins show how DITO, at its infancy, is now disrupting the competition by providing the best overall experience and TRUE 5G standard, making high-speed internet affordable, accessible, and reliable for more Filipinos to experience.


Experience the speed of the Fastest Mobile Network in the country with DITO Mobile Prepaid Data Sachet 30. For only Php 30, enjoy 3GB of all-access data valid for 3 days, perfect for streaming, gaming, and more!
For more information, check out @DITOphofficial at Facebook and Instagram or visit https://dito.ph/.

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Cultural concert topbills Bayang Barrios and Russian singer Rumiya Niyazova

The spellbinding ethnic music of Russia and the Philippines will be showcased in an exciting concert this Sunday, January 22 at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium in Magallanes, Makati City.

Dubbed Beyond Borders: A Cultural Dialogue of Music, the concert is being presented by the Nadezhda Foundation and JB Music. It brings together Russian singer Rumiya Niyazova and various Filipino ethnic music performers led by Agusan del Sur-based singer Bayang Barrios and her band Naliyagan, guitarist Jerome Rico, String Fusion, and the Binan Folkloric Dance Troupe.

Ms. Rumiya Niyazova is flying in from Moscow upon the invitation of NADEZHDA Foundation and the support of the Russian Embassy in the Philippines. She’s an accomplished singer and theater actress and is a resident performer at the LDM Theatre in St Petersburg, Russia. For three years now she has been playing major roles in the theatre’s musical productions. 

She was also in the cast of The Sure Thing, a television series aired on RenTV. She currently anchors a travel show aired by the Russian Travel Guide channel. Rumiya was a three-time winner of the International Tatar Song Festival.

Rumiya completed her studies at the Moscow Institute of Culture and the Arts. For this concert, the sultry-looking singer will perform the music of Tatarstan, an autonomous republic situated within Russia where the largest ethnic groups are the Tatars. Their traditional music is a mixture of Turkic, Mongolic ad Finno-Ugric elements that bridge Mongolian and Hungarian music. Secular songs and sacred music are all part of Tatar music.

Award-winning singer/songwriter Bayang Barrios is a 35-year veteran and lead singer of the band Naliyagan. Named after the Manobo word, meaning “the chosen,” Naliyagan’s musicians include Bayang’s husband Andrew Barrios who plays the guitar and hegalong (an indigenous two-stringed lute), Yan Bagay Cruz on bass, Budeths Casinto on percussions, Jape Bongat on keyboards and kulintang (small tuned gongs played with mallets), and Matt Bravante on drums and bamboo percussions.

A proud Manobo from Agusan del Sur, Bayang Barrios early in her career joined Joey Ayala’s band, the iconic Ang Bagong Lumad. This band has been famous for using indigenous musical instruments and giving ethnic music a more contemporary sound. She stayed with Ang Bagong Lumad for almost 20 years performing in various countries around the world. Prior to being the lead vocal of Naliyagan, Bayang performed as a solo artist. She also became a social activist whose advocacy is championing the rights of the indigenous people.

It was in 1997 when Barrios became the recipient of the Lorenzo Ruiz Award given by the Catholic Mass Media Awards. Six years later she won the Metropop Music Festival for the song she composed, “Malayo Man, Malapit Din.”

Born in Bataan, guitarist Jerome Rico has made a name for himself for performing romantic standards and the hit songs from the 1980s. His debut album Guitar Shop was released by Warner Music Philippines. The album’s lead track is a cover of Astrud Gilberto’s “Agua de Beber.” It features backup vocals by bossa nova singer Sitti.

Jerome Rico’s musical inspiration includes jazz instrumentalists Tuck Andres, George Benson, Lee Ritenour, and David Benoit. At age 16 he started playing the guitar and focused on the music he enjoys, particularly the standards and the recordings of his favorite jazz artists.

The String Fusion band is composed of six musicians; Maze Lim on the violin, Irish Glenn Portugal on cello, Marloe Maruyama on bass, Migs Raneses on guitar, Rafael del Rosario on piano, and Alan Abdula on drums. The band’s repertoire is diverse. They perform OPM hits, the standards, jazz, and popular movie and TV series themes.

Established in 2016, the Binan Folkloric Dance Troupe is composed of 39 dancers, all of whom were trained by the group’s resident choreographer Jordan B. Sarcia with the assistance of Arvin J. Bongon.

They’ve been a fixture in major cultural events and its own concerts in Laguna and in various cities around the country, including Metro Manila.

Beyond orders: A Cultural Dialogue of Music is produced by Sandra Lim Viray with Faye Miravite of Nadezhda Foundation, and Tony Alcasid. The show starts at 7 pm. Tickets are priced at P1, 500 (free seating with cocktails served at 6 pm). For ticket inquiries, visit www.ticketmax.ph or call or text 09154979909.

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Innovating for Tomorrow: LG Launches Air Solution Showroom and Academy in Cebu

In a milestone event that highlighted innovation, collaboration, and education, LG officially opened the LG Air Solution Showroom and Academy last December 12, 2024, in Mandaue City, Cebu. The ceremony, held to foster connections with industry professionals, educators, and prospective customers, also marked the launch of a facility dedicated to showcasing LG's latest air solutions.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by LG Philippines Managing Director, Mr. Nakhyun Seong, joined by representatives from SAC dealerships, contractors, and educators from the Cebu Institute of Technology University. Attendees witnessed the unveiling of the new showroom and academy designed to be a hub for showcasing and learning about LG’s latest Air Solution technologies.

Guests were treated to an exclusive first look and guided tour of the state-of-the-art facility featuring LG's latest innovations in air conditioning.

LG Philippines Managing Director, Mr. Nakhyun Seong, expressed his excitement in this milestone event with the opening of the LG Air Solution Showroom and Academy "As a global leader in the HVAC market, LG is privileged to be given the opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise through this academy. With our technologically advanced products, we hope to contribute towards making energy-efficient business solutions more accessible here in Cebu."

Showcasing Innovation: Multi V i and Multi V Water 5

Capturing the attention of attendees with cutting-edge technology and unmatched performance are the Multi V i and Multi V Water 5 systems. These products stand out for their energy efficiency, reliability, and advanced cooling performance — qualities that align with modern needs for sustainable solutions.

The AI-driven Multi V i analyzes user behavior, automatically adjusting to the room’s temperature, occupancy, and humidity for a centralized, energy-efficient, and balanced indoor climate. Designed to enhance comfort and energy efficiency, it uses AI Energy Management and Optimized Space Control for powerful performance that adapts in real-time. With a flexible 26HP single-unit capacity, it can scale up to 96HP by combining up to four units, making it highly customizable to meet the needs of any space.

The Multi V Water 5 is an efficient and compact water-cooling system, ideal for flexible installation. Featuring a high-efficiency inverter scroll compressor that operates from 20Hz to 150Hz, it ensures optimal performance with minimal vibration and noise. The system enhances energy efficiency by optimizing heat exchange, particularly in high-rise buildings. Variable Water Flow Control further reduces energy consumption by adjusting the water flow for partial loads. Even in extreme outdoor conditions, the Multi V Water 5 remains a reliable, high-performance solution.

This achievement marks a new chapter in strengthening partnerships and advancing innovation in the HVAC industry, with LG leading the way in energy-efficient solutions for a sustainable future. Life’s Good when innovation drives change, creating a lasting impact on the world.

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