LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers power a new era of art and heritage conservation at the National Museum of Fine Arts

Featuring advanced humidity control, Dual Inverter Compressor technology, UVnano™ hygiene features, and ultra-quiet operation, LG Dehumidifiers help protect priceless artworks under optimal gallery conditions.

LG Philippines Managing Director Mr. Nakhyun Seong with National Museum of the Philippines Director-General Mr. Jeremy Barns, CESO III during the official turnover of the LG PuriCare Dehumidifiers

LG Philippines has reaffirmed its enduring partnership with the National Museum of Fine Arts, donating LG Puricare™ Dehumidifier units as part of a shared commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural treasures. These state-of-the-art units are now in place across key galleries, maintaining ideal climate conditions to safeguard delicate and irreplaceable works of art.

In Spoliarium Hall, masterpieces such as “Spoliarium” (1884), “Josephine Sleeping” (1896), and “El Asesinato del Gobernador Bustamante” (1904) are now better protected against environmental threats—thanks to LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers

 

Museums are far more than spaces for public display—they are controlled environments where even minor fluctuations in temperature or humidity can lead to long-term damage. Excess moisture, in particular, can cause warping, mold growth, and pigment deterioration. That’s where dehumidifiers play a critical role: maintaining stable humidity levels that help ensure the longevity of collections.

In Gallery VIII - Silvina and Juan Laya Hall, sensitive historical works like "Bataan" (1942) and "Rape and Massacre in Ermita" (1947) are preserved under ideal conditions, with LG's support helping to meet rigorous conservation standards

This partnership strengthens the National Museum’s internal climate regulation systems, enhancing its ability to meet the demands of professional art conservation. Each LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifier contributes to long-term protection across the museum’s most vulnerable and valuable spaces.

In Gallery V - Dr. Jose Rizal Hall, the 1923 "Portrait of Dr. Jose Rizal" is maintained in climate-stable conditions, preserving the likeness of the national hero with the help of LG's advanced technology

Designed with both performance and safety in mind, LG’s PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers feature a highly efficient Dual Inverter Compressor, allowing for faster moisture removal and significant energy savings. UVnano™ technology helps maintain a hygienic water tank by inhibiting bacterial growth, while the ultra-quiet 33dB operation ensures that conservation work continues undisturbed. Engineered for ease of use, the units also include ergonomic handles, smooth-glide wheels, continuous drainage options, and smart connectivity via the LG ThinQ™ app for real-time monitoring and remote control—enabling seamless integration into the museum’s day-to-day preservation efforts.

In Gallery IV - Fundacion Santiago Hall, the 1900 piece "Philippine Colonial Tradition of Portraiture" is similarly protected under tightly controlled environmental conditions

“LG is proud to be a partner in preserving the nation’s cultural treasures,” said Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines. “Through this donation, we’re helping to create the right conditions for protecting priceless artworks. It’s a privilege to support institutions that celebrate Filipino identity and creativity. Life’s Good when history, heritage, and innovation come together.”

In Gallery XIII - Vicente and Carmen Fabella Hall, important works such as “Timbulan ng Laya at Diwang Dakila” (1996), “Sabel” (1966), and two Stations of the Cross from 1960 are conserved in climate-controlled conditions made possible by LG’s technology

At the heart of the National Museum of Fine Arts lies a collection that tells the evolving story of the Filipino people—through resilience, artistry, and national pride. Few works capture this spirit more than Juan Luna’s monumental Spoliarium. To help safeguard this iconic painting and others by National Artists like Fernando Amorsolo, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, and Benedicto Cabrera, LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers—each capable of removing up to 30 liters of moisture per day—now work silently in the background, defending against the invisible threats of time, decay, and climate.

National Musem of the Philippines Director-General Jeremy R. Barns discusses the importance of climate control and dehumidifiers in preserving artworks like Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium”

“Spoliarium is the most iconic work of art in the Philippines,” said Jeremy R. Barns, Director-General of the National Museum of the Philippines. “When it won the gold medal in Madrid in 1884, it inspired none other than José Rizal himself—and it continues to inspire every generation since. That’s why we must protect it—not just as a piece of history, but as a living symbol of our national identity, for all who come after us.”

He added, “Luna’s journey and triumph in Europe are powerful reminders of our cultural strength. His work, and others like it, reflect our roots, our resilience, and how far we’ve come as a nation.”

In Gallery II – Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines, Inc. Hall, the devotional piece “Via Crucis” (1830) is kept in stable humidity conditions, protected from moisture-related damage by LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers

Preserving these works is not without challenges. The museum battles the effects of the country’s tropical climate daily. “Humidity is one of the biggest threats to our collection,” Director Barns explained. “Fluctuations in temperature can severely damage fragile works—paintings, wood, canvas. That’s why we need environmental control. LG’s dehumidifiers are exactly what we need to fight moisture and ensure these pieces endure.”

Official turnover ceremonies were attended by representatives from both LG Philippines and the National Museum, including: (L-R) Ms. Anne Rosette G. Crelencia, Chief Administrative Officer: Research, Collection, and Conservation Management Division; Mr. Jave Enriquez, LG Philippines ES Product Manager; Mr. Changsoo Jang, LG Philippines ES Product Director; Mr. Nakhyun Seong, LG Philippines Managing Director; Mr. Jeremy R. Barns, Director-General, National Museum of the Philippines; Mr. Andoni M. Aboitiz, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Atty. Ma. Rosenne M. Flores-Avila, Deputy Director-General for Administration; and Mr. Arvin Manuel R. Villalon, Acting Deputy Director-General for Museums

With cutting-edge humidity control technology now deployed throughout the galleries, the National Museum is better equipped to strengthen its preservation efforts—protecting masterpieces from Spoliarium to Sabel and everything in between.

In Gallery IX – Early 20th Century Philippine Portrait Hall, works like the unfinished “Portrait of Florencia ‘Nena’ Singson Gonzales-Belo” (1972) are kept in optimal condition alongside portraits from 1951 to 1996, supported by LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifiers

More than a donation, this partnership represents a growing, shared commitment to heritage conservation. As the public continues to rediscover the joys of visiting museums and cultural institutions, the National Museum remains steadfast in its mission—to preserve, educate, and inspire. This same technology that protects priceless art also proves highly useful in everyday environments—offering ideal humidity control for homes, offices, and other spaces where clean air and moisture balance are essential.

“Our partnership with LG continues to grow,” Director Barns concluded. “It began with digital displays that helped us tell stories. Now, it has expanded to include conservation technology that protects these works—so they can be seen and appreciated not only today but for many years to come.”

The LG PuriCare™ Dehumidifier, now standing in the presence of Spoliarium, marks a powerful symbol of innovation supporting heritage

To support the arts is to support the very soul of a nation. Through its meaningful contribution, LG helps ensure that Filipino art, culture, and history are not only preserved—but remain visible, accessible, and alive for generations to come.

Because when art and heritage are protected, Life’s Good.

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology; it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at www.lg.com/ph/business/hvac/commercial-end-user/ and stay connected by following LG HVAC Solutions Philippines (@LGHVACSolutionsPH) on Facebook, and LinkedIn, as well as LG Global (@lgphilippines) on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok.

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Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel Flourishes with Manuel Baldemor's ‘Flowers of May’

The Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel proudly presents Flowers of May, a vibrant and uplifting exhibition by acclaimed Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. The exhibit pays homage to the beloved Flores de Mayo festival, a time-honored celebration of beauty, devotion, and renewal.

Following the contemplative tone of his recent Kuwaresma series, Baldemor now shifts to a more joyful expression of spirit and color. In Flowers of May, Baldemor breathes life into the season’s blooms through his distinctive visual style, capturing the richness of Philippine flora, serving as both subject and metaphor.

Flowers of May

Flowers of May at the Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel

“One can achieve tranquility by recognizing themselves as part of nature and finding their core or soul. Flowers are a perfect example as they represent peace and love. They have their own language of diplomacy that speaks straight to our hearts,” shared Baldemor.

The exhibit invites guests to experience joy and serenity, reflecting the essence of Flores de Mayo. Through this collection, Baldemor offers a visual journey that connects viewers to both cultural heritage and the quiet beauty of the natural world.

Flores de Mayo is on display at the Art Gallery until May 31, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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STREAMLINED II: The National Artist ARTURO LUZ EXHIBITION all set to open on June 3 at the Art Center, SM Megamall

"Streamlined II" highlights the enduring legacy of National Artist Arturo Luz.

Renaissance Art Gallery proudly presents the second iteration of “Streamlined: The Art of National Artist Arturo Luz” at the Art Center, SM Megamall. Curated by artist-critic Cid Reyes, the “Streamlined II” exhibition showcases Luz's rich and enduring legacy, highlighting his unwavering commitment to impeccable design and disciplined use of color. 

In 1951, distinguished art  and literary critic Recaredo Demetillo noted, “I must draw attention to the work of Arturo Rogerio Luz. His forms are alive and distinguished; he understands abstraction and austerity, the sense of space and balance.  He distorts with intuitive rightness and grace. In other words, he is a real artist.” 

"Palitana White Temples," Acrylic on Canvas

At just 17 years old, Luz, declared National Artist in 1997, was already exploring painting and  was drawn to form's simplicity and essential nature. 

His first work was a portrait of his mother, the renowned interior designer Rosario Dimayuga Luz. As a figurative painter, Luz was inspired by Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo, known for his spare and elongated forms. 

This influence led Luz to develop his own vocabulary of shapes using plastic lines. He also drew significant inspiration from Swiss artist Paul Klee,  who famously described line as “taking a dot for a walk.” This inspiration culminated in Luz's linear depictions of cyclists, musicians, and carnival performers, including acrobats and jugglers,  as well as still lifes featuring boxes, Oriental ceramics, jars, bowls, and shells. 

By limiting his choice of subjects, Luz could delve into the elegance of visual simplicity, precision, and spatial balance. 

"Forms of Amusement," Acrylic on Canvas

"Performers," Acrylic on Canvas

"Performers," Acrylic on Canvas

He began to favor non-traditional materials such as burlap and laminated plywood, and at one point even used broken tiles to create a mosaic for a church altar floor. 

Eventually, Luz transitioned to pure abstraction through collage, which compelled him to create compositions without representational subjects. This allowed him to focus on the planar qualities of form and surface and the visual tension that arises from achieving a perfectly balanced composition. 

In the early 1980s, Luz expanded his subject by traveling throughout Asia and India. His experiences during this pilgrimage inspired many works that featured imaginary landscapes filled with temples, palaces, fortifications, and battlements — all transformed into linear symphonies of monochromatic tones accented by earthy colors like chrome yellow, dark mustard, cardinal red, burnt sienna, bronze, and brown. 

Arturo Luz also demonstrated his administrative skills in the 1980s by managing his eponymous Luz Gallery,  the Museum of Philippine Art, the Metropolitan Museum, and the Design Center of the Philippines. 

Of paramount significance is Luz's transformation of the native artistic sensibility from festive and flamboyant to restrained and dispassionate. 

A limited edition monograph with design and layout by Dopy Doplon and photography by Wig Tysmans will be available to accompany  the exhibit. 

“Streamlined II” runs from June 3 until June 16 at the Art Center, SM Megamall, 4/F Bldg. A at the corner of EDSA and Julia Vargas Avenue, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila.

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LG OLED TVs Illuminate Artistic Legacy at National Museum of Fine Arts

Celebrating 140 Years of Spoliarium: Juan Luna's Masterpiece and National Treasure

LG Philippines Managing Director, Mr. Nakhyun Seong and the National Museum of the Philippines Director-General Jeremy Barns, CESO III stand proudly at the National Museum of Fine Arts with Juan Luna’s Spoliarium as the backdrop. Experience art in a new light with the 2024 LG OLED AI evo TVs, featured beside the masterpiece.

LG Electronics, a global leader in technology and innovation, proudly announces its partnership with the National Museum of the Philippines, furthering its commitment to supporting cultural heritage and promoting the arts. The announcement was made during a special event held at the National Museum of Fine Arts, where Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines, expressed LG's pride in being part of significant celebrations aligned with the Philippines' rich cultural heritage.

"At LG, supporting the arts and culture is an integral part of what we do," said Mr. Seong. "We are honored to collaborate with the National Museum of Fine Arts for the 140th anniversary of the masterpiece 'Spoliarium' by Juan Luna. Through our donation this National Heritage Month, we hope that more people will be able to enjoy the enhanced interactive experience and offer visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation of Luna’s significant work and its historical context."

LG's commitment to the National Museum extends beyond this donation, as highlighted by Mr. Seong: "The installation of LG OLED AI TVs illuminates the artistic legacy of the National Museum of Fine Arts. The partnership between LG and the museum signifies a synergy between cutting-edge technology and timeless artistry. LG is committed to the National Museum of the Philippines and its causes in the arts, aiming to foster greater appreciation and accessibility to cultural heritage."

During the event, Director-General Jeremy Barns of the National Museum also addressed the audience, acknowledging the importance of modernizing cultural institutions for today's generation: "It's a challenge for the National Museum today to make museums accessible to the modern generation. The addition of LG OLED AI TVs will greatly enhance our ability to engage visitors and provide them with enriching experiences."

(From L-R) LG Philippines Product Director for Home Entertainment, Mr. Yongwoo Park; LG Philippines Managing Director Mr. Nakhyun Seong; National Museum of the Philippines Director-General Jeremy Barns, CESO III; Deputy Director-General for Administration Atty. Ma. Rosenne Flores-Avila and National Museum Deputy Director-General for Museums; Jorell M. Legaspi at the official turnover of the World’s Best LG OLED TVs at the Old Senate Session Hall of the National Museum of Fine Arts.

Mr. Yongwoo Park, LG Product Director for Home Entertainment, provided insights into LG's latest advancements in home entertainment during the event. "It’s a privilege for our TVs to be an integral part of your lives," said Mr. Park. "Our Home Entertainment vision - 'Sync to You, Open to All' - is guiding how our TVs are becoming windows onto different experiences. With your partnership, we’re continuing our OLED leadership, now in our 11th year. It is our commitment to continue to break new grounds, to push the boundaries of entertainment."

(From L-R) Drew Arellano, Bianca Yao, LG Philippines Product Director for Home Entertainment, Mr. Yongwoo Park, Gretchen Ho, and Mikee Reyes

Angelica Dumlao, Product Manager for TV, detailed the features of the LG OLED AI TV 2024 lineup, emphasizing the role of AI technology in enhancing the viewing experience. "The Alpha11 AI Processor offers four times the performance of its predecessor, allowing LG OLED AI TVs to recognize users and personalize experiences according to their preferences. The event also showcased LG's QNED TVs, known for their vibrant colors and exceptional brightness, as well as LG Soundbars essential for elevating the surround sound experience.”

LG enthusiasts and avid users also shared their experiences with LG OLED AI TVs. TV host and cinephile Gretchen Ho expressed her admiration for the LG OLED AI B4: "As a cinephile, having LG OLED AI B4 is like having a cinema experience right in your home. Whenever I see my documentaries and movies on the screen, the colors are so vibrant and the details are so clear, it feels like I’m still immersed in my travels. And it’s not just about the movies – even regular TV shows and streaming content look amazing. The deep blacks and vibrant colors really make everything pop. LG OLED AI B4 truly brings out the best in every film and video, making it perfect for both movie nights and everyday viewing.”

Gretchen Ho with LG OLED AI B4

Drew Arellano, a devoted family man and renowned TV personality, offered heartfelt insights into LG OLED AI TVs, reflecting on their transformative impact on his family's entertainment. "For me, as a family man, LG OLED AI TVs are more than just cutting-edge technology; they're a gateway to unforgettable moments shared with loved ones.” Drew marveled at LG's technology, expressing admiration for features like Al Picture Pro, which imbues every frame with authentic realism. With Al Sound Pro, every detail of the soundscape resonates with lifelike clarity, creating an immersive audio experience. The LG OLED evo G4, powered by the new Alpha11 AI Processor, provides you with the ultimate home theater viewing experience. Combined with Brightness Booster Max, peak highlights reach a new high, which is 150% brighter than conventional OLEDs.

Drew Arellano with the LG OLED AI G4

Bianca Yao, aka Biancake, an avid gamer, shared her enthusiasm for LG OLED AI TVs, particularly the LG OLED AI C4, which she described as a game-changer for gaming enthusiasts. "For us gamers, OLED is the number one TV in gaming. The LG OLED AI C4’s gaming capabilities really set it apart. The low input lag and fast response time ensure a seamless gaming experience, making it a favorite among gamers like myself. It gives me next-level gaming experience with ultimate speed, and real-time response for an easy way to win”. Bianca underscored the advanced features of LG OLED evo AI G4 and C4, noting their support for 4K 144Hz and NVIDIA G-SYNC, which elevate the gaming experience to new heights.

Bianca Yao, aka Biancake, with the LG OLED AI C4

Sportscaster Mikee Reyes highlighted the LG QNED AI TV's exceptional features, stating, "My next-level screen delivers vibrant colors and detailed picture quality from any angle." He mentioned how the TV's vibrant colors and detailed picture quality enhance the viewing experience, especially for sports enthusiasts like himself. With its enhanced contrast and brightness, comparing it to a thrilling game day experience at home. He also appreciated the convenience of the Sports Alert feature and its Quantum Dot and NanoCell technologies for delivering rich colors and advanced motion handling, ensuring clearer and smoother viewing of fast-paced sports. Lastly, he lauded the TV's sleek design, noting its slim profile and compatibility with ultra-big screens, such as the new 98” QNED, which offers an expansive viewing experience ideal for a home theater setup.

Mikee Reyes with the LG QNED AI

In closing, Ms. Mayan Salapantan, LG Philippines Head of Corporate Marketing, emphasized LG's commitment to integrating advanced technology with timeless art to enhance cultural experiences. She expressed pride in supporting initiatives that bring people together, spark creativity, and promote education, aligning with LG's brand promise of “Life’s Good” and brand mission of creating a better life for all through smart life solutions.

Life's about more than having the latest technology, rather, it's about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers consumer electronics through top-of-the-line home entertainment appliances that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide - from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao. LG OLED AI products are available via lg.com/ph and through its flagship stores in Lazada and Shopee. For more information, visit and follow their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube (@lgphilippines).

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