lifestyle and culture

January 20, 2025

“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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January 15, 2025

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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January 14, 2025

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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January 13, 2025

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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