Beyond Machines: The Human Touch Behind LG’s Laundry Business Success Stories

Mr. Jun Lee, LG Philippines Product Director for Home Appliances, and Mr. Leo Estallo, President & CEO of One Rockford Enterprises with LG and One Rockford Teams

Running a successful laundry business goes beyond delivering clean clothes—it’s about building trust and delivering consistent, high-quality service. For Leo Estallo, President & CEO of One Rockford Enterprises and Vice President of the United Philippine Laundry Association (UPLA), every laundry shop they help establish is designed to meet both the practical demands of customers and the realities of day-to-day operations. Backed by LG Commercial Laundry Machines, known for their durability and efficiency, his team ensures entrepreneurs are equipped with reliable technology and long-term support. With over 22 years of engineering experience and more than 9 years managing 6 of his own Spin-Off Express Laundry branches in Parañaque, San Pedro, Biñan, Southwoods, Carmona, and Antipolo, Leo has become a key figure in raising laundry standards.

Leo Estallo, President & CEO of One Rockford Enterprises

Redefining Laundry: Creating Meaningful Customer Experiences Beyond Clean Clothes
Leo observes a broader trend in how laundromats are redefining customer experience. “We see laundromats evolve into lifestyle hubs. Some newer concepts are blending laundry with cafés, coworking spots, and even pet wash stations. It’s no longer just a chore stop, it’s a full experience. Customers stay longer, spend more, and actually enjoy being there.” While laundry may seem like a straightforward utility, he believes the best businesses are those that create meaningful customer interactions. “One of the best parts of owning a laundry business is the little community that forms over time. You start recognizing familiar faces, sharing stories while waiting on spin cycles, even offering life tips over fabric softener choices. It’s unexpectedly social, and we love being part of that.” This shows how Leo is confident that great service comes from blending personal connections with seamless operations.

Spin-Off Express Laundry, Carmona Branch

Technology also plays a critical role in shaping tomorrow’s laundry businesses. “Tech integration is also changing the game. App-based booking, payment systems, remote monitoring, and machine usage analytics are all becoming the norm. For future business owners, that means planning for smart operations from day one.” The laundry business is evolving, and the market’s future is something to watch closely. “Aside from the move to bigger-capacity machines, which is all about handling bulk loads, comforters, and even light commercial laundry, there’s a real push toward premium services,” he notes. “One standout is steam cleaning, especially for delicates like silk, wool, and even designer pieces. It’s a smart pivot for shop owners looking to attract a more discerning crowd. People want care, not just clean.”

Why Customer Satisfaction Starts with Reliable Technology
For Leo, customer satisfaction goes beyond product delivery—it involves anticipating needs and delivering consistent after-sales support. “We’ve been hearing a lot of great reviews from our customers about the LG machines we offer and honestly, it’s always a great feeling. They love how easy the machines are to use and how they just work—efficient, reliable, and always delivering top-notch results.

LG Styler

“What really stands out for them is the smart features and how energy-efficient the units are, which makes a big difference in their daily operations.” He further emphasizes the value of responsive service and long-term partnership. “And when it comes to after-sales support, they know they can count on us. Quick responses, dependable service—that kind of trust goes a long way, and it’s something we’re proud to keep building.”

Resilience in Action: Overcoming Challenges with Quality Technology
Leo recalls one of the most defining moments in his company’s journey: a super typhoon in 2020 that severely affected a client’s laundry shop. “It was back in 2020 when a super typhoon unleashed devastating floods, submerging one of our valued customer's laundry shops under nearly 5 meters of water,” he shares. “The aftermath left their machines heavily damaged, and the fear of permanent shutdown loomed.”

Rather than viewing the situation as a loss, Leo and his team approached it as an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of their customer support and the resilience of the LG Commercial Washers. “But through expert assessment and careful evaluation, we were able to recover, repair, and revive their flooded machines, bringing them back to optimal working condition with only minimal parts replacement,” he continues. “This not only saved our client from the high cost of purchasing new equipment but also reinforced one undeniable truth—that LG machines are built to endure. Quality that withstands even the toughest challenges.”

LG Commercial Washing Machines installed for business-ready performance

A strong foundation—built on quality technology, responsive service, and genuine customer care—can weather any storm. Leo ensures his business stays resilient and continues to deliver top-notch customer satisfaction by making LG Commercial Laundry a key part of his operations. “LG Commercial Washers are a solid choice. I’ve seen firsthand how they boost efficiency, save on utilities, and still deliver top-tier cleanliness.” His experience stands as proof that with the right partner like LG, laundry businesses can stay resilient, efficient, and built for long-term success. “For anyone starting a laundry business or looking to upgrade, it’s the kind of investment that pays off long-term.”

Life’s Good in the Laundry Business: Empowering Success through Trust
For those exploring opportunities in the laundry industry, Estallo offers sound advice drawn from years of experience in the field. “Don’t just sell clean clothes, build trust,” he says. “Machines, detergents, and services are a given, but what really keeps customers coming back is consistency, reliability, and that personal touch.” He believes that every successful venture begins with a well-thought-out plan. “Start with a clear plan, invest in quality equipment and training, but more importantly, know your market, listen to your customers, and treat their laundry like it’s your own.” The laundry business isn’t just about washers and dryers—it’s about being part of someone’s daily routine and making it a little easier. “That’s where the magic—and the growth—happens.”

Spin-Off Express Laundry supports the next generation of laundromat owners

Life’s Good reflects the deeper meaning that Leo finds in his everyday work. Life’s Good when there’s purpose behind the grind, when resilience carries you through challenges, and when the value you create isn’t just for today, but for the long run.

“For me, it’s not just about profits or milestones,” he shares. “It’s about waking up every day knowing I get to build something meaningful—with people I trust, for clients I believe in.” It’s a perspective shaped by experience: the quiet wins of seeing a team member thrive, hearing a simple ‘thank you’ from a client, or watching a new idea finally take off. While the journey isn’t always smooth, Leo finds fuel even in the tough moments. “Life’s Good’ means doing work that excites me, creating value, and still having time to enjoy slow mornings with my coffee and family.” It’s a mindset that guides One Rockford Enterprises “When you genuinely care about people’s journey, growth becomes a natural outcome—and so does lasting trust.”

Start your own success story with LG Commercial Laundry Solutions today and take your business further with advanced technology, efficiency, and seamless operations. Visit LG Commercial Laundry PH on Facebook or go to www.lg.com/ph/business/commercial-laundry/ to learn more.

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GCash, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank enable access to savings for more Filipinos

 The eC-Savings on GSave allows users to save directly from their GCash wallet

Only 1 out of 3 Filipinos can save, with half of them opting to save their money at home, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. However, this traditional way of saving exposes their hard-earned money to risks of fire and theft, with BSP even noting its potential impact on currency circulation.

“Trusted financial institutions provide fundamental security for funds. On top of this, they also offer an opportunity for Filipinos to get the most out of their hard work: the availability of high-yield savings accounts that offer competitive interest rates,” said Winsley Royce Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses, GCash.

In a move to democratize access to high-yield savings accounts among Filipinos, GCash, through GSave, has partnered with microfinancial services provider Cebuana Lhuillier Bank to offer a savings account designed to provide higher interest rates, accessible through an e-wallet they already trust for everyday transactions.

“GCash and Cebuana are driven by the same mission of making financial services accessible to Filipinos nationwide, especially the underserved communities,” said Bangit. “Through this collaboration, we hope to empower Filipinos to cultivate their financial well-being by transforming saving from being a burden to being an actionable step.”

With over 3,500 branches nationwide, Cebuana is bringing its expertise in financial inclusion to the cashless ecosystem, enabled by finance super app GCash, with millions registered users in the country.

Under the partnership, GCash users can now open an eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank account through GSave, a savings marketplace where users can grow and secure their funds within the GCash app. Account holders of eC-Savings by Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave will get 3.5% p.a. interest, regardless of their deposit amount, enabling them to earn higher interest income compared with traditional savings accounts.

Perks for Savvy Savers: Cashback and Insurance

To help jumpstart their savings journey, users who open eC-Savings by Cebuana on GCash will get PHP 100 cashback on their initial deposit. Moreover, eC-Savings account holders will get up to PHP 33,000 in free accident coverage.

“While most hardworking Filipinos understand the value of having insurance, cost still prevents them from prioritizing it,” noted Bangit. “We introduced this benefit so they no longer have to face a trade-off between building their savings and having peace of mind during their daily hustle.”

Savings Made More Accessible

A key deterrent for Filipinos to save money in traditional banks is the perceived complexity of opening a bank account, typically requiring in-person visits and submission of supporting documents. The availability of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank on GSave eliminates this hurdle, as GCash users can open an account on GSave on the app, without having to submit additional IDs.

The BSP study also noted that among the mass market, the amount of savings they have tends to be small and often earmarked for immediate expenses, with most preferring to keep funds readily accessible at home. Given this need for accessible savings, GSave enables users to deposit as low as PHP 1 directly from their GCash wallet. Users no longer have to worry about their accounts being closed, as the eC-Savings account does not have a minimum maintaining balance.

“Filipinos’ hardworking spirit deserves to be matched by financial services that work just as hard as they do, actively supporting their financial goals. By building upon the trust of millions of Filipinos in GCash and Cebuana, we hope to empower their aspirations for a secure future by making saving truly accessible and rewarding for all,” concluded Bangit.

To open an eC-Savings by Cebuana account on GSave, you must be a Filipino Citizen, at least 18 years old, and a fully verified GCash user. Ready to grow your money? You may access GSave through the GCash dashboard or find it under “Grow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

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New Smurfs Trailer Features Rihanna's New Single "Friend of Mine"

Paramount Animation has just unveiled the first official trailer for SMURFS, a bold and fresh reimagining of the beloved blue icons. Bursting with heart, humor, and high-stakes adventure, the animated feature is led by global superstar Rihanna, who not only voices Smurfette but also performs a brand-new original track, “Friend of Mine.”

Watch the trailer here:

Directed by Chris Miller (Shrek the Third, Puss in Boots), SMURFS takes the cherished franchise in an exciting new direction, featuring an epic storyline and an all-star ensemble cast including Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, Marshmello, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman.

When the wise and caring Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously captured by two wicked sorcerers—Razamel and the infamous Gargamel—the Smurfs are thrown into turmoil. It’s up to Smurfette (Rihanna), the lone girl in the village with a mysterious past, to rally her friends and embark on a daring mission into the human world. As they face magical traps, unlikely allies, and the overwhelming challenges of an unfamiliar universe, the Smurfs must discover the truth behind their destiny—and what it truly means to be a hero. Full of humor, heart, and a whole lot of blue, SMURFS is a larger-than-life journey that will captivate audiences of all ages.

SMURFS is presented by Paramount Animation in association with Domain Entertainment and is a Ty Ty and Jay Brown production. The film is directed by Chris Miller and written by Pam Brady, based on the characters and works of Peyo. It is produced by Jay Brown, Ty Ty Smith, Robyn Rihanna Fenty, and Ryan Harris, p.g.a., with Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, and Andrew Lary serving as executive producers.

With its dazzling animation, powerful themes, and a standout performance by Rihanna, SMURFS is poised to be the family movie event of the summer.

SMURFS opens exclusively in theaters nationwide on July 16.

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LG Streaming Week returns with exciting deals and endless content to enjoy at home

Over 70 Partners Across 42 Countries Offer Free and Discounted Subscriptions for the Ultimate Home Entertainment Experience Powered by webOS

Following the success of last year’s LG Streaming Week, LG Electronics (LG) is bringing the campaign back with even more to offer. Running from May 19 to June 30, LG Smart TV owners in 42 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia can access a wide range of free and discounted streaming content through partnerships with major content providers.

Eligible devices include LG TVs above UHD released after 2019 (running webOS 4.5 and above), the LG StanbyME or StanbyME Go, as well as UHD and WQHD Smart Monitors. Users can enjoy exclusive deals on the LG Streaming Week app, accessible from the Home Screen, Content Store or Apps.

With the LG webOS Smart TV platform continuing to expand its global user base while offering more enriching content experiences, this year’s campaign returns with a stronger focus on local content and more varied libraries, catering to diverse preferences and interests with the help of over 70 trusted content partners.

For LG Streaming Week 2025, LG Smart TV owners can dive into a new world of entertainment enriched by diverse content from leading streaming companies. From popular series and refined classical music performances to classic films and live sports, there’s plenty to explore from the comfort of home for everyone.

Renowned for premium, award-winning drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, Apple TV+ is offering three months of unlimited access to Apple Originals and more for just ₱99 per month for 3 months. This includes the cultural phenomenon Severance, hit sci-fi favorites like Silo, acclaimed comedies like The Studio, compelling dramas like The Morning Show and Your Friends & Neighbors, and global hit films including The Gorge, The Instigators, Wolfs, The Family Plan and more. Apple TV+ also offers award-winning series for kids and families including Jane and Stillwater, and beloved Peanuts originals.

For classical music lovers and opera enthusiasts, LG Streaming Week is offering three months free access to Deutsche Grammophone’s Stage+, a video and audio streaming service boasting a curated selection of premium concerts, operas and documentaries from around the world. This offer will be available to LG TV owners worldwide.

Mubi, the global streaming service, distributor and production company, is offering LG TV owners complimentary three-month access to the world’s finest films. Mubi creates, curates, acquires and champions visionary films, bringing them to audiences all over the world. Catch the award-winning The Substance, starring Demi Moore, an exclusive Mubi release which became one of the most talked-about, thought-provoking and explosive films of the decade.

Baby Shark World for Kids, developed by The Pinkfong Company, is offering its extensive collection of songs and stories to LG Smart TV owners worldwide for free for one month. The app provides a safe and fun experience where young learners can sing, play and learn along with their favorite characters through engaging educational content.

As part of its ongoing efforts to deliver diverse content, LG is bringing multiple local promotions for audiences of each region, thoughtfully tailored to their language, tastes, and interests.

Fans of Asian entertainment can enjoy special offers from top streaming platforms featuring popular shows and movies from across the region. Viu is offering one month of free Viu Premium, allowing you to enjoy the latest K-dramas and Asian series like Pump Up the Healthy Love and The Haunted Palace with zero ads and early access. iQIYI is giving 30% off a one-year premium plan—available to all subscribers from May 19 to June 30, 2025—featuring top Asian titles like Love in Pavilion and The Best Thing. Meanwhile, Sun NXT offers two months free when you subscribe to its annual premium pack, delivering the best of South Indian entertainment in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.

For Filipino viewers, iWantTFC offers a one-month free trial of iWantTFC Monthly Premium. Enjoy ad-free access to Filipino series, movies, news, and reality shows—including the exciting PBB Celebrity Collab All In and the action-packed Incognito and FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.

What’s more, Stingray is offering a free month of its engaging karaoke content, providing music enthusiasts with interactive singing experience across a variety of genres.

To ensure more users can enjoy the benefits of LG Streaming Week, LG is offering special promotions on its industry-leading TVs throughout the campaign period. This move will let more customers explore the company’s intuitive, feature-rich webOS which delivers seamless, personalized viewing experiences. Since its launch, the ever-evolving webOS platform has become a cornerstone of LG’s innovation, supported by over 4,000 partners in 180 countries and millions of active users.

For more information on certain LG Streaming Week offers, visit the dedicated page at www.lg.com/ph/lg-streaming-week-2025/. For more details on product promotions, like and follow LG Philippines’ social media accounts (@lgphilippines) on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

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Movie Review: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Tom Cruise returns in what may be the most exhilarating—and perhaps most emotional—entry in the Mission: Impossible saga with The Final Reckoning. Clocking in at a bold three hours, this epic finale isn’t just a send-off; it’s a cinematic event that fuses adrenaline-pumping action with a chillingly relevant story, all wrapped up in the franchise’s signature high-octane style.

At the heart of the movie is a hauntingly timely premise: Ethan Hunt’s ultimate mission pits him against a powerful artificial intelligence known only as The Entity. In an era increasingly shaped by AI, the stakes feel uncomfortably real. The fear isn’t just in the explosions or the car chases—it’s in the idea that a faceless, emotionless intelligence could one day outmaneuver humanity itself. This adds a layer of urgency and modern dread to the usual spy-thriller fare.

Despite its extended runtime, The Final Reckoning wastes no time. Each minute is packed with thrilling sequences that are both visually stunning and narratively gripping. From breathtaking underwater operations to jaw-dropping aerial stunts, the film demands your full attention—blink, and you might miss something monumental. Tom Cruise, once again performing many of his own stunts, defies gravity and logic in scenes that are almost too intense to believe.

One of the film’s most rewarding elements is how it weaves in flashbacks and references from earlier Mission: Impossible films. These callbacks don’t feel forced or gimmicky—they enrich the story, offering closure and connecting Ethan’s journey in a way that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Longtime fans will appreciate how it ties the narrative threads together into one cohesive, final mission.

But what truly sets The Final Reckoning apart is its emotional weight. Amid the chaos and spectacle, the film makes room for quiet, human moments. Ethan is more than just a super-agent—he’s a man torn by duty, loyalty, and the cost of sacrifice. These scenes of vulnerability balance the relentless pace and give the film a heart that elevates it above typical action blockbusters.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning isn’t just a movie—it’s a ride, a reflection, and a fitting finale to one of the most iconic action franchises in cinema. Whether you're in it for the stunts, the suspense, or the emotional depth, this final chapter delivers on every level. Don’t miss it.

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Hotter Days Ahead: Spend them in Comfort with LG DualCool AI Air Conditioners

Stay cool and comfortable—even on the hottest days—with Soft Air for a gentler breeze, Comfort Humidity Control for balanced indoor air, and AI kW Manager for smart, energy-efficient cooling that supports your well-being

Staying cool isn’t just about comfort anymore—it’s about protecting your health. As temperatures continue to rise, the risks of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, fatigue, and heatstroke become more serious. According to the latest advisory from PAGASA, some areas across the Philippines are expected to face high heat index levels (42°C to 45°C). It’s advisable to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure in the afternoon, and limit outdoor activities to reduce health risks.

In times like these, having a smart, energy-efficient cooling solution becomes less of a luxury and more of a necessity—keeping your home safe, your environment cool, and your family protected. LG DualCool AI Air Conditioners make this possible with intelligent features designed to support your comfort, health, and energy savings through the heat.

   

The LG DualCool AI Air Conditioner offers a practical way to stay comfortable indoors without compromising your well-being. It delivers reliable cooling that helps you stay focused, rested, and protected—proving that comfort and wellness can go hand in hand, even during the hottest months. From saving power to managing bills more efficiently, it’s all about smarter, more sustainable comfort. Here’s how LG DualCool’s smart features elevate your quality of life:

1. Smarter Cooling with the AI kW Manager
And with the AI kW Manager, you can set energy usage limits, track consumption in real time, and manage your bills more proactively, all through the LG ThinQ™ App. It’s smarter cooling that helps you stay comfortable without worrying about rising electricity costs.

2. Effortless Comfort with Smart Airflow
With features that adapt to your lifestyle, LG makes creating the right indoor climate easier and more efficient. Once the ideal temperature is reached, the Soft Air feature automatically shifts to a gentler breeze, avoiding harsh bursts of air. The Dual Vane system distributes airflow faster and farther, providing cooling that adjusts to your needs whether you're working, relaxing, or winding down for the day.

3. Maximize Comfort, Minimize Energy Use
To help reduce unnecessary energy use, Comfort Humidity Control maintains optimal air balance, while Window Open Detection recognizes when the indoor temperature rises due to warmer air entering from outdoors, and adjusts performance accordingly to shift to energy-saving mode. These intuitive features ensure consistent comfort while helping you save energy in smarter ways.

4. Easy Maintenance for a Healthier Home
The LG DualCool AI also simplifies maintenance with features that keep the unit fresh and efficient. Auto Clean+ activates after use, blowing air to remove moisture and drying the heat exchanger for up to 20 minutes. It adjusts to either dry faster or operate more quietly based on your preference. Its Freeze Cleaning mode makes it easy to clean the hard-to-reach areas by using thawed ice to wash away pollutants, reducing harmful bacteria and maintaining better air quality.

As temperatures rise, keeping cool becomes essential—not just for comfort, but for your overall well-being. LG’s smart innovations bring ease, rest, and balance throughout the season and reminds us that Life’s Good when your home supports your health, even in the most intense summer weather.

Life's about more than having the latest technology; it's about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. To learn more, visit www.lg.com/ph and like and follow LG Philippines’ social media accounts (@lgphilippines) on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

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Side Show: The Musical Announces Full Company

After mounting critically-acclaimed productions of Little Shop of Horrors: A Bloodthirsty Musical Comedy and Next to Normal, The Sandbox Collective continues its 2025 season with SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL this July 2025.

Set in 1930s America, SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is a fictional depiction of the life and times of real-life conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who found fame and notoriety in the vaudeville circuit in 1920 and 1930s.

Featuring a stellar mix of Philippine theater’s veterans and rising stars, the show is set to captivate audiences with a brand new staging of the original 1997 version of SIDE SHOW.

THE HILTON TWINS
Alternating in the role of the conjoined twins, Violet and Daisy Hilton, are powerhouse pairs Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila, and Krystal Kane and Molly Langley.

Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila

The award-winning and global artist, Tanya Manalang stars as Violet Hilton in Side Show. She played Kim in ‘Miss Saigon’ (West End, London) and originated the role of Joy in ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo.’ She is a Best Actress winner (Aliw, GEMS), and has starred in ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘The King and I,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘tick, tick… Boom!,’ ‘All Out of Love,’ and more.

A proud alumna of UP Diliman’s Theatre Arts program, Marynor Madamesila stars alongside Tanya as Daisy Hilton. She is a singer, mover, and multimedia actor. Some of her recent credits include: ‘Walang Aray,’ ‘Sandosenang Sapatos,’ ‘Batang Rizal,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ and 'Buruguduystunstugudunstuy.’ Marynor is a Gawad Buhay and Aliw Award nominee for Best Lead Actress. On screen, Marynor has appeared in ‘Pamilya Ko,’ ‘Love in 40 Days,’ ‘Oh, Mando!’ and ‘Beauty and the Boss.’

Molly Langley and Krystal Kane

Molly Langley takes the stage as Violet Hilton in Side Show. Trained at Performers College in the UK, Molly’s theater credits include ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘The Wild Party,’ and most recently ‘RENT’ as Mimi. She is a seasoned international performer with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines. She was recently part of the sixth season of the singing competition ‘The Clash’ where she made it to the final Top 6.

Krystal Kane stars alongside Molly as Daisy Hilton. Krystal has been doing professional theater since she was 10 years old. Her previous productions include ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘Spring Awakening,’ and ‘Once On This Island.’ In 2019, Krystal was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Musical at the first Philippine Leaf Awards, as well as Best Actress in a Musical Show by Broadwayworld Philippines. Krystal also served as the costumes stylist for The Sandbox Collective’s ‘Lungs,’ ‘Every Brilliant Thing,’ ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay,’ and ‘Tiny Beautiful Things.

THE BOSS
Stepping into the role of The Boss is comedian, host, and TV and film actor Jon Santos. Last seen on stage in The Sandbox Collective’s sold-out runs of ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay.’ Jon was also seen in productions such as ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,’ ‘Bituing Walang Ningning,’ and ‘Ako si Josephine.’ Outside of theater, Jon is one of the mainstay judges of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines.

Jon Santos as The Boss

TERRY CONNOR
Alternating in the role of the press agent and Daisy’s love interest, Terry Conor, are theater leading men Reb Atadero and CJ Navato.

Reb Atadero and CJ Navato

Reb Atadero is an award-winning actor, singer, host, voice actor, director, and content creator. He is Gawad Buhay Awardee for his portrayal of Michael in ‘tick, tick… Boom!’ and has received nominations for his performances in ‘The Graduate,’ ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Lungs,’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ Beyond the stage, Reb is known for his online educational content, popularizing the catchphrase “BOOM! Now You Know!”, which has since expanded into his very own podcast, ‘BOOM! Now We Know!,’ streaming on Spotify.

With over 20 years in the industry, CJ Navato has captured the hearts of many on the big screen, TV, and now including theater. He rose to fame as a mainstay in ABS-CBN’s ‘Goin’ Bulilit’ and has since appeared in various shows like ‘Luv U,’ ‘Doc Ricky,’ ‘Pedia,’ and ‘Dirty Linen.’ He was last seen on stage in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical,’ ‘One More Chance The Musical,’ and ‘Charot!’.

BUDDY FOSTER
Sharing the role of the aspiring musician and Violet’s love interest, Buddy Foster, are leading men, Vien King and Tim Pavino.

Vien King and Tim Pavino

Marking a versatile and influential decade in the arts, Vien King has earned the title Best Actor (Gawad Buhay, LEAF Awards) for ‘Passion.’ He starred in ‘Rama Hari,’ ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!,’ and most recently in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical.’ He also appeared in MMFF hits, ‘Partners in Crime’ and ‘Love at First Stream.’ Vien has performed internationally with Disney in Concert, and now tours Asia with The Jet Theaters.

Tim Pavino is a BroadwayWorld Awardee and a two-time Aliw Awards winner. Tim’s theater experiences include ‘Miong,’ ‘The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-off,’ ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,’ ‘Matilda,’ and ‘Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.’ He has also performed with prestigious orchestras such as the BYU Chamber Orchestra, ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, Auburn Symphony Orchestra, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra, and appeared on The Voice of the Philippines under Team Lea Salonga.

JAKE
Theater mainstays Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas alternate in the role of Jake.

Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas

Singer-songwriter Marvin Ong earned a Gawad Buhay Award for his performance in ‘Sweeney Todd.’ He also received a citation for his role in ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.’ Marvin also played key roles in different productions such as ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,’ ‘Si Juan Tamad, ang Diyablo, at ang Limang Milyong Boto,’ ‘The Sound of Music,' and ‘Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang.’ As a singer, Marvin has released two albums under Viva Records, the first of which earned him a certified gold record status and an Aliw Award nomination.

Joshua Cabiladas is an acclaimed Filipino actor, singer, and improviser with over a decade of experience in theater, film, and music. He was most recently seen in ‘Delia D.,’ as well as in ‘Jepoy and the Magic Circle,’ ‘Lam-Ang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Himala: Isang Musikal,’ among others. He reprised his role in the film adaptation of ‘Isang Himala,’ and had notable performances in ‘Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 3,’ ‘Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap,’ ‘Kapatiran,’ ‘Ploy,’ ‘Florante at Laura,’ and ‘Bula sa Langit.’

THE ENSEMBLE
Completing the company are the ensemble members who are set to take the stage as the sideshow curiosities. The Sandbox Collective is delighted to introduce the incredible ensemble comprised of: Arion Sanchez, Chan Rabutazo, Fay Castro, Daniel Wesley, Ian Hermogenes, Mikee Baskiñas, Pamela Imperial, Pappel, Raflesia Bravo, Red Nuestro, Reine Paisley, and Rhap Salazar.

Ensemble

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL will be directed by The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director Toff de Venecia, with Ejay Yatco serving as musical director. Rounding out the artistic team will be Mark Dalacat as assistant director and set designer, Carlos Siongco as costume designer, Gabo Tolentino as lighting designer, JM Cabling as choreographer, and Colin Dancel as photographer.

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL opens on July 26, 2025 and will run until August 16, 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets and Show Buying information will be released at a later date. #SideShowMNL

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is licensed through Concord Theatricals.

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit their website www.thesandboxco.com and social media platforms: Facebook Instagram Tiktok

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