“WONKA” to be released December 6, an early Christmas treat for Philippine fans

Step into a world of pure imagination, and get ready for an early Christmas present!

The release date for the much-anticipated “Wonka,” starring Timothée Chalamet as the beloved chocolate-maker, has been moved up to December 6 (formerly January 2024 yet) in international markets, including the Philippines. Thus, Filipino fans will be among the first to watch the film, which will be released locally one week ahead of the U.S. Watch the new trailer here:

Based on the extraordinary character at the center of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Roald Dahl’s most iconic children’s book and one of the best-selling children’s books of all time, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today. “Wonka” is an intoxicating mix of magic and music, mayhem and emotion, all told with fabulous heart and humor. Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, this irresistibly vivid and inventive big screen spectacle will introduce audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time—proving that the best things in life begin with a dream, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible.

Directed by Paul King, with a screenplay he co-wrote with Simon Farnaby. Produced by David Heyman, Alexandra Derbyshire and Luke Kelly.

Starring alongside Chalamet are Calah Lane (“The Day Shall Come”), Emmy and Peabody Award winner Keegan-Michael Key (“The Prom,” “Schmigadoon”), Paterson Joseph (“Vigil,” “Noughts + Crosses”), Matt Lucas (“Paddington,” “Little Britain”), Mathew Baynton (“The Wrong Mans,” “Ghosts”), Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins (“The Shape of Water,” the “Paddington” films, “Spencer”), Rowan Atkinson (the “Johnny English” and “Mr. Bean” films, “Love Actually”), Jim Carter (“Downton Abbey”), with Oscar winner Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”). The film also stars Natasha Rothwell (“White Lotus,” “Insecure”), Rich Fulcher (“Marriage Story,” “Disenchantment”), Rakhee Thakrar (“Sex Education,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral”), Tom Davis (“Paddington 2,” “King Gary”) and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (“Paddington 2,” “Zack Snyder’s Justice League,” “Mary Poppins Returns”).

In cinemas December 6, “Wonka” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

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Experience super-sized fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary this October

It’s October and it only means one thing at SM-SuperMonth!

Suit up for some super-sized deals, treats, and fun as SM celebrates its 65th anniversary. Check out the month-long festivities filled with spectacular activities, immersive attractions, and unforgettable experiences that will leave you thrilled and excited.

SM lights up the sky with Super Blue Illumination

Signaling the start of SM’s 65th celebration, key malls and iconic landmarks will bathe in a brilliant shade of blue starting October 1. A sight to behold and an event to watch out for, the Super Blue Illumination is a captivating display of dazzling lights that signify SM’s enduring legacy and commitment to bringing fun, awesome, and memorable malling experiences for over six decades.

SM Mall of Asia

SM Megamall and Tower 2

SM Seaside Cebu

SM North EDSA

It’s a shopper’s paradise with Super Buy 1 Get 1 Deals

October isn’t complete without a month-long parade of super-sized deals and promos at SM Deals! Expect Buy 1 Get 1 Deals from your favorite dining, shopping and entertainment brands, extravagant discounts, exclusive bundles, and exciting freebies you can swipe to redeem in-store when you download and register on the SM Malls online app. And with a diverse range of brands and product offerings at SM, surely there's something for everyone in everyone’s shopping paradise.

Indulge yourself with Super Treats

Fun and frenzied October awaits as SM unleashes its Super Treats! On October 15, indulge the movie buff in you as SM Cinema offers a Php 65 movie ticket deal and a Php 65 caramel popcorn combo. It’s truly a match made in cinema heaven!

From October 1 to 30, knock down pins all you want as SM Game Park and SM Bowling offer Php 65 off on unlimited bowling for one hour. For the skating aficionados, SM Skating will also be slashing off Php 65 on the all-day pass.

And for the thrill seekers, you are in for a super treat! Have a whole day of wonder and excitement with a Php 65 entrance fee at Skyranch Tagaytay for all Mondays of October until 12 noon.

Create core memories at the Super Play Spots

Gather your squad and have fun at the Super Play Spots. With well-lit, Instagrammable areas, you'll have the perfect backdrop for your Super Month memories. These Super Play Spots promise hours of entertainment whether you're a social media maven or simply looking for a fun day out. Check out the Super Play Spots at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City North Edsa, SM Aura, SM Southmall, SM City Dasmariñas, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Cagayan Downtown Premier, SM Lanang, SM City Clark, SM City Marikina, and SM City Iloilo.

Drive away in style at the Super Raffle Giveaway with VISA

From October 1 to November 30, eleven lucky shoppers can get a chance to drive away in style at SM’s Super Raffle Giveaway with VISA. All you need to do is to shop for a minimum single receipt purchase of Php 2,000 via tap to pay using your VISA card at participating SM Retail Stores in 75 SM Malls nationwide.

Get a chance to win one of the six (6) brand-new Hyundai Stargazers and one of the five (5) brand-new Hyundai Cretas. These brand-new Hyundai cars will really make your daily commute a super experience so shop till you drop and maybe drive away with a new set of wheels!

SM’s Super Month promises to be a 65th-anniversary celebration like no other. Don't miss out on the super-sized deals, indulgent treats, and the chance to win big. Mark your calendars and get ready for a super malling experience at your favorite SM mall.

To stay updated for everything SUPER this October, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

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LG Amplifies 'Life's Good' Message with Inspiring Brand Film to Champion Optimism

Directed by Award-Winning Director, Motivational Brand Film

Encourages Viewers to Embrace Path of Optimism

LG Electronics (LG) today highlighted its Life’s Good message by introducing a new brand film. Part of the ongoing global brand campaign, the film beautifully communicates the true meaning of LG’s Life’s Good philosophy and shares the company’s powerful message of the importance of being optimistic.

Launched in August 2023, the Life’s Good campaign aims to inspire people to face challenges with an optimistic attitude during difficult times, as well as highlight the enduring nature of LG’s brand philosophy and values, which the company has consistently upheld throughout its entire history.

The newly introduced 90-second film centers on a middle-aged man who chooses optimism in his personal journey, allowing him to overcome obstacles and accomplish something that no one would have believed him capable of. At the outset, the protagonist has a look of apprehension as he struggles to ride a longboard down a suburban street. However, as the film progresses, he becomes more determined and begins to glide gracefully over the asphalt, wearing a happy, confident smile on his face.

The underlying message of this heartwarming story is that there’s an optimist inside everyone; it’s merely a matter of deciding to embrace it. Using a longboard as a metaphor for life, the film suggests that any goal or dream is attainable if one is brave and optimistic enough to push through their perceived limitations to get there.

LG’s brand film was crafted by a group of experienced creatives headed by Emmy Award-winning director, Nicolai Fuglsig, whose simple, charming storytelling so powerfully illustrates what can happen when one elects to walk the path of optimism.

“LG came to me with the idea of sharing the meaning of its Life’s Good philosophy through the lens of choosing optimism, and I was immediately drawn to the project,” said Nicolai Fuglsig. “I love the story of an unexpected hero venturing out of his comfort zone and using optimism to overcome challenges. Personally, I feel it’s a powerful reminder not to get bogged down by negativity and to live life to the fullest.”

As LG transforms its business, it is changing the way it communicates with customers and stakeholders through its recent brand reinvention, ensuring the values and philosophy of Life’s Good are delivered at every touchpoint across the customer experience. Thus far, the campaign has graced some of the most iconic landmarks in various cities around the world, including Dubai, London, New York and Seoul.

“Life’s Good represents our unwavering commitment to making people’s lives better though innovation,” said Jeongseok (JS) Lee, senior vice president and head of LG’s Global Marketing Center. “In line with our future vision to become a smart life solution company, we will communicate with various customers at every touch point in more dynamic and youthful way.”

“With our global campaign, we aim to convey our message of Life’s Good, inspiring and encouraging customers to take life with an optimistic attitude,” said Kim Hyo-eun, vice president of LG’s Global Marketing Center. “We hope that our brand film can uplift customers and create a meaningful influence on their lives.”

The brand film can be viewed on the LG Global Youtube channel.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 74,000. LG’s four companies – Home Appliance & Air Solution, Home Entertainment, Vehicle component Solutions and Business Solutions – combined for global revenue of over KRW 80 trillion in 2022. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, service robots, automotive components and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.lg.com/ph for products and services or follow their social media channels (@lgphilippines) on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube.

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Leonie Agri Corp. Opens Its Doors to the International Market

LAC, the first and largest organic-certified farm and manufacturing plant in the Philippines
welcomes DENR international delegates

Leonie Agri Corp. (LAC), a subsidiary of one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines PascualLab, takes a step into the international market via the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) - Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 2023 ASEAN Conference on Medicinal Forest Trees tour held last September 7, 2023.   

Opening the Doors to an International Market 

LAC, the first and largest organic-certified farm and plant in the Philippines, recently welcomed 80 delegates of the ERDB from Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, at its 42-hectare home in Nueva Ecija. As part of their three-day itinerary, the delegates from the business, academe, and public sector, were given the tour of the newly refurbished LAC.  

According to ERDB OIC-Assistant Director Forester (For) Conrado B. Marquez: “We have carefully chosen LAC as the ideal location for the conference tour. LAC is a renowned agriceutical company and the tour provided invaluable insights to every individual regarding the importance and utilization of medicinal plants, as well as the various forest tree species. This immersive experience further enhanced the understanding and appreciation of the potential benefits that these natural resources hold for society."

 

Leonie Agri Corp. 

LAC recently renovated its farm and manufacturing plant, to further its parent company’s mission of providing quality health and wellness products and services, with highlight on its combination of organic- based farming methods and produce as well as its pharmaceutical-grade processes and products. Along with its farm and plant improvements comes the widening of its product and service portfolio.  

Home of Ascof Lagundi and WellGreens plus C-Lium Fibre  

Home of the first Lagundi cough relief in the market, Ascof Lagundi² and the first commercially available Sinta food supplements, WellGreens Sinta, LAC is also home to premium and organic-certified raw materials including Sambong (Blumea Camphor) and Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa). It also mostly manufactures C-Lium Fibre³, the leading psyllium fiber brand in the Philippines while another food supplement, PureGreens Malunggay is in the pipeline.   

Government-recognized  

LAC, certified by the Department of Agriculture for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and by the Islamic Da’Wah Council of the Philippines for Halal, produces premium organic raw materials to meet the various toll needs of clients.  

Industry-compliant  

Also certified by Department of Health’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), LAC offers reliable toll manufacturing services such as: Sachet filling, Blistering, Dehydration, Milling, Encapsulation, Packaging, Spray drying, Extraction, Essential oil extraction, and Sterilization.  

Antonio C. Causing, LAC President and CEO affirms: “We share with DENR, the same passion for sustainability, and their vision of a nation enjoying and sustaining its natural resources and a clean and healthy environment. LAC for one, adheres to these sustainable practices and quality standards.”  

Originally servicing clients in Southeast Asia, LAC is gearing up to explore more markets in Asia and the rest of the world in the coming years. 

Corporate Social Responsibility 

While LAC’s vision remains aligned with its parent company PascualLab’s vision for Strong, Healthy

Families and its focus on market expansion, the Filipino-owned agriceutical firm continues to draw from its core – a passion for CSR. LAC is a socially responsible organization that employs sustainable methods. It also supports community development and the livelihood of local farmers. It partners with the local communities not only of Nueva Ecija, but also of Aurora and Bulacan in Luzon, Philippines to train farmers with the processes and standards of organic farming, providing them opportunities to improve the quality and increase the quantities of their crops, through earth-friendly methods, while earning a sustainable living as agripreneurs.

Beyond this, LAC reaches out to sectors in need and survivors of natural calamities. 

Leonie Agri Corporation – continuously evolving to provide purposeful health solutions to its current and emerging markets. 

For more information, visit http://www.leonieagricorp.com/.

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ZTE CEO Xu Ziyang reinforces commitment to advancing digitalization and sustainable development at 2023 SDG Digital

• ZTE recognized as one of the first P2C Champions by ITU for leading digitalization initiatives
• ZTE commits $400 million annually to ICT infrastructure for underserved regions, promoting digital inclusion in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS by 2025
• Guided by P2C principles, ZTE aims to bridge the digital divide, supporting UN SDGs for universal digital access
• ZTE dedicates itself to narrowing gaps and improving lives through digital solutions as a driver of digital economy

ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, today announced that its CEO, Xu Ziyang, has delivered a keynote address at 2023 SDG Digital, a high-level event hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). At the event, ZTE was recognized as one of the first P2C Champions by ITU.

In his address, Mr. Xu outlined the company's vision and initiatives, reaffirming ZTE's commitment to advancing digitalization and sustainable development.

Mr. Xu emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide in the world's most underserved regions. ZTE, guided by the principles of Partner2Connect (P2C), continues its significant pledge to invest $400 million annually in information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) by 2025.

"Actions speak louder than words," Mr. Xu noted, highlighting the substantial progress made in fulfilling this pledge. He also expressed ZTE's gratitude for being recognized as one of the first P2C Champions of this initiative.

According to ITU, SDG Digital would not be possible without the leadership, advice, advocacy and commitment of the SDG Digital Advisory Group. ITU and UNDP are thankful to all the organizations, including ZTE, that have been involved in planning and preparation for SDG Digital, and their commitment to advancing progress on the Global Goals through technology.

During the journey, ZTE reaffirmed its commitment to P2C, which embodies the power of partnerships in advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through global cooperation in information and communications technologies.

"In this shared journey, the advancement of P2C remains our mission's cornerstone, not just for ITU but for all stakeholders," Mr. Xu emphasized. He stressed the importance of aligning P2C's capabilities with the digital transformation strategies of each nation.

Furthermore, Mr. Xu acknowledged the rapid pace of technological innovation, including AI, and reiterated ZTE's promise to leave no one behind in the computing era.

"As a driver of digital economy, ZTE stands firm in its dedication to building bridges that narrow gaps and crafting solutions that elevate lives. Together, let's transform these commitments into accomplishments, and let's light up lives by upholding global cooperation and breaking new ground," concluded Mr. Xu.

ZTE remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing sustainable development goals, contributing to global digitalization, and empowering communities worldwide.

ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global
Stay up to date with the latest from ZTE Devices Philippines. Like and follow the official social media channels (@ztedevicesph) on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. You may also buy ZTE and RedMagic phones from authorized dealers and official flagship stores in Lazada, Shopee and Kimstore.com.

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LG and ADDESSA Give Back With a Whole Lot of Laundry Love

In a heartfelt endeavor to support communities ravaged by recent typhoons, LG and ADDESSA have once again demonstrated their commitment to social responsibility by staging another successful 'Laundry Love' event. The collaboration was birthed to assist communities severely impacted in La Union, Pangasinan, and Zambales. Recognizing the challenges these areas faced due to flooding, the partnership aimed not only to provide free laundry services but also repair support for LG appliances damaged during the calamity.

Over a span of just twelve days in August, the initiative witnessed an overwhelming response with an average of 50 individuals registering daily at all participating ADDESSA branches. Cumulatively, this means approximately 600 individuals were able to avail of the service, a testament to the depth of the need and the gratitude of the beneficiaries.

Powering the event, LG showcased its cutting-edge technology by providing the latest washing machines, including the innovative WashTower™ and a range of front and top load models. Alongside these, free detergents and dedicated exhibitors ensured a seamless experience for those dropping off their laundry. Ensuring the word reached far and wide, LG also lent its marketing and branding support. Complementing LG's efforts, ADDESSA was instrumental in orchestrating the on-the-ground activities. By providing vital infrastructural support, including water supply, electricity, setup space, and critical security measures, ADDESSA demonstrated a deep commitment to their communities.

Additionally, recognizing that many had faced damage to their appliances in the typhoons, LG stationed a dedicated service personnel through their third-party service partner, Appletronics Services, Inc. This representative was on hand not only to assist with repairs but also to answer any questions or concerns about LG appliances.

Mangaldan, Pangasinan

Agoo, La Union

In times of crisis, such partnerships underline the importance of community and collaboration. Through their 'Laundry Love' initiative, ADDESSA and LG have not only provided a much-needed service but also sowed seeds of hope, reminding the residents of La Union, Pangasinan, and Zambales that they are not alone in their recovery journey.

LG PH Managing Director Mr. Sungjae Kim expressed his happiness with the successful event, stating "Filipinos have an indomitable spirit, demonstrating unmatched resilience even in the face of the most challenging adversities. At LG, we are continually inspired by this strength and are committed to standing alongside the Philippines, offering our unwavering support to uplift communities whenever they need it the most."

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, home appliances, and air solution products that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide - from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao.

For more details, follow @LGPhilippines on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube. LG products are available in all authorized dealers nationwide both in-store and online. Visit lg.com/ph for a complete list of our retail partners. You can also visit LG's Official Flagship Stores in Lazada and Shopee.

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SM Supermalls Launches 100 Days of Christmas

Surprising shoppers every day till December 25.

The countdown to Christmas Day begins on September 16 as SM launches a host of fun activities, deals, and surprises for each member of the family.

It starts with surprises each day! From September 16 to December 25, someone lucky will be surprised, one mall at a time, with toys, gifts, groceries and meals on us as SM begins 100 Days of Christmas Surprises. Which mall will delight someone today? Come to SM to find out!

WHAT ELSE IS A-HAPPENIN’?

Breathtaking Spectacles, to mark the festive season, will dazzle you at your favorite SM mall. Your favorite malls will all be dressed with a dazzling display of holiday magic and sparkling Christmas centrepieces await shoppers inside the malls for that IG-worthy moment.

Start your holiday gift shopping early on with a trove of artisan products and services from local MSMEs at the Holiday Bazaars. Toys, games, and collectibles are waiting to make this holiday season unforgettable at the Christmas Toy Fairs, in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express.

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing his merry squad along! Captivating performances, musicales, ensure there’s something for everyone at every visit.

Pets are family too, and SM Supermalls knows it! Bring your furry friends to select SM mall for a pawsome Christmas Pawty packed with games and prizes for furbabies in pet costumes.

Welcome our Overseas Filipino Workers and Families! With the help of BDO Kabayan, SM Supermalls will be bringing holiday cheer to our modern-day heroes at the Pamaskong Handog by BDO Kabayan in SM City Cebu, SM City Fairview, and SM City General Santos with Superstars, prizes, and laughs galore.

Let’s not forget that you can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying your shopping. Buy one SM Cares’ Bears of Joy, and we will donate to one underprivileged child.

And the fun never ends! On News Year’s Eve, welcome 2024 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Lanang, and SM CDO Uptown.

To know more about SM Supermalls’ 100 Days of Surprises, visit https://gosm.link/100DaysOfChristmasSurprises for daily surprise videos, www.smsupermalls.com, and follow @SMSupermalls on social media for all the Christmas surprises!

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