The Manila Hotel reopens Heritage Museum

The Manila Hotel Heritage Museum

The Manila Hotel reopens Heritage Museum following extensive enhancements aimed at delivering a more engaging historical experience. Located at the lobby level of the iconic hotel, the revamped museum presents a newly curated collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that highlight the hotel’s role in Philippine history, culture, and hospitality since 1912.

The Heritage Museum showcases the hotel’s architectural and cultural legacy, notable guests, world leaders, and contributions to society over the past century. Previously unseen photographs and antique décor pieces are now on display, giving visitors a closer look at the milestones that shaped The Manila Hotel’s legacy. New additions include digital installations, the hotel’s oldest surviving menu, and a curated display of antique furniture, among others.

“The Heritage Museum is more than a walk through the past, it’s a way of honoring The Manila Hotel and its intertwined relationship with the history of our country. Every piece you’ll see here was chosen to reflect our story as a living landmark,” said Rachy Cuna, The Manila Hotel’s social director and design consultant.

Designed for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors, the Heritage Museum reflects the hotel’s ongoing commitment to preserving its legacy.

The Heritage Museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. For guided tours or additional information, guests may contact Guest Services at +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email guestservices@themanilahotel.com.

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Theater Review: Sandbox Collective’s Side Show is a Stunning Celebration of Uniqueness and Unity

Sandbox Collective’s bold new staging of Side Show is not just a musical—it’s an experience. From the moment you enter the theater, you’re transported into the world of 1930s sideshows, thanks to an immersive setup where actors engage directly with the audience even before the curtain rises. It’s intimate, strange, and mesmerizing—just the way Side Show is meant to be.

First staged on Broadway in 1997, Side Show is a cult-favorite musical with music by Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Bill Russell. It’s based on the true story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who were famed performers in vaudeville and circus circuits. The musical explores not just their pursuit of fame and love, but the price of being different in a world obsessed with normalcy. The 2014 revival brought a reimagined script and deeper character development—and Sandbox’s take builds beautifully on that, making it feel both grand and personal.

At the heart of this production are Molly Langley and Krystal Kane as Violet and Daisy. Their chemistry is magnetic, and their vocal blend is hauntingly beautiful. Whether they’re harmonizing in power ballads or navigating the emotional complexity of being physically bound yet emotionally distinct, the duo commands the stage with grace and grit.

On the romantic front, CJ Navato and Vien King bring charm and vulnerability to the roles of Buddy and Terry. Their performances add layers of tenderness and longing that make the sisters’ desires even more relatable. It’s hard not to swoon over their sincerity and suave delivery.

Vien King, Krystal Kane, Molly Langley and CJ Navato

CJ Navato

The ensemble is nothing short of electrifying. Each cast member embodies the spirit of the show’s “freaks” with depth and dignity, rejecting caricature in favor of humanity. Standouts include Jon Santos as the enigmatic Boss, delivering a chilling portrayal of exploitation cloaked in charisma, and Joshua Cabiladas as Jake, whose commanding presence and rich vocals leave a lasting impact.

More than just a visual and musical treat, Side Show is a poignant reflection on difference, identity, and sisterhood. Sandbox Collective reminds us that being “different” is not something to hide, but something to celebrate. In a world that often seeks conformity, Side Show dares us to embrace our uniqueness—and each other—with open hearts.

This production is a triumph. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the spectacle until August 17 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Theater in Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati City.

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LG Releases Second-Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Building a Stronger Foundation for Long-Term Qualitative Growth Through Portfolio Shifts and Operational Resilience

LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced consolidated revenue of KRW 20.74 trillion and operating profit of KRW 639.4 billion for the second quarter of 2025.

Both revenue and operating profit declined year-over-year, primarily due to continued global market softness, increased tariff burdens driven by changes in U.S. trade policy, and intensified competition. Rising costs, including logistics expenses, also weighed on overall profitability compared to the same period last year.

Despite these challenges, the Home Appliance Solution (HS), Vehicle Solution (VS) and Eco Solution (ES) Companies delivered strong performance, each posting year-over-year increases in both revenue and operating profit. All three Companies achieved their highest-ever second-quarter results. In particular, the VS Company recorded its best quarterly revenue and operating profit in history.

Meanwhile, the Media Entertainment Solution (MS) Company reported an operating loss, primarily due to lower TV sales and increased marketing spend. However, its webOS platform-based advertising and content business continued to generate stable profits, increasingly contributing to the Company’s overall performance.

Building Stronger Foundation for Qualitative Growth
LG continues to strengthen its business fundamentals by focusing on B2B segments such as vehicle components and HVAC systems, non-hardware businesses including subscription services and the webOS platform, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) operations via its online platform, LGE.COM.

In Q2 2025, B2B revenue – including vehicle, component and smart factory solutions, as well as HVAC – rose 3 percent year-over-year to KRW 6.2 trillion. Revenue from the home appliance subscription business increased 18 percent, reaching KRW 630 billion.

These segments remain central to the company’s ongoing portfolio transformation. The B2B business is less susceptible to demand volatility and benefits from strong entry barriers due to solution-based customer relationships. Non-hardware businesses offer recurring revenue and high margins, while the D2C channel enhances profitability and brand equity.

Q2 2025 Results & Outlook by Company

LG Home Appliance Solution (HS) Company
The HS Company posted second-quarter revenue of KRW 6.59 trillion and operating profit of KRW 439.9 billion, achieving its highest-ever second-quarter performance. Despite soft consumer demand, tariff pressures and rising freight costs, the Company maintained strong global competitiveness. Its dual-track strategy – targeting both premium and mass-market segments – continued to drive solid results. The subscription model business continued its rapid expansion. Operational efficiencies and production optimization helped offset increased costs and support profitability.

Looking ahead, market recovery is expected to remain gradual amid heightened competition. The Company will focus on expanding its subscription and D2C businesses and pursue additional cost improvements to help mitigate U.S. tariff impacts. While logistics cost pressures are projected to ease slightly compared to late 2024 and early 2025, the Company plans to carefully manage marketing expenditures to sustain or exceed last year’s level of operating profit.

LG Media Entertainment Solution (MS) Company
The MS Company posted second-quarter revenue of KRW 4.39 trillion and an operating loss of KRW 191.7 billion, primarily due to softened demand leading to lower TV sales and increased marketing expenses in response.

Going forward, the Company will focus on enhancing operational efficiency across all business segments. It plans to expand its presence in Global South markets such as India, where demand remains relatively strong. Continued growth is also expected in the webOS platform business, with new content offerings in areas such as gaming and digital art.

LG Vehicle Solution (VS) Company
The VS Company generated record second-quarter revenue of KRW 2.85 trillion and operating profit of KRW 126.2 billion – the highest in its history. Performance was supported by a robust order backlog and increased OEM vehicle sales, particularly in Europe.

A strategic shift toward premium in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems significantly enhanced profitability, while operational efficiency improvements in electric vehicle components and lighting systems further bolstered results. Moving forward, the Company will focus on strengthening relationships with key customers and maintaining profitability through ongoing efficiency gains.

LG Eco Solution (ES) Company
The ES Company achieved second-quarter revenue of KRW 2.64 trillion and operating profit of KRW 250.5 billion, marking a record for second-quarter performance. This growth was driven by strong demand for residential air conditioners in Korea and continued expansion in the commercial and industrial HVAC segments. Higher sales volumes boosted operating leverage, leading to improved profitability.

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, the Company aims to capture replacement demand for high-efficiency products while expanding its product portfolio to support long-term growth. It also plans to explore new opportunities in emerging sectors such as AI data centers by enhancing its commercial HVAC and industrial chiller capabilities – including systems for power generation – and scaling up its liquid-cooling solutions business.

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Roy Veneracion: The Art of Syncretism at The Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel

The Art Gallery by The Manila Hotel presents The Art of Syncretism, a compelling exhibition featuring the works of esteemed Filipino artist Roy Veneracion. Officially opened on July 16, 2025, the exhibit runs through August 16, 2025, offering hotel guests and art enthusiasts the opportunity to experience Veneracion’s signature aesthetic philosophy.

A pioneering force in the Philippine contemporary art, Veneracion is widely recognized for his use of Aesthetic Syncretism, a practice that interweaves seemingly opposing ideas, cultural references, and disparate visual idioms into a cohesive artistic language. Through this method, he creates intricate works that defy categorization and challenge conventional artistic norms. The 9-piece exhibit features a selection of Veneracion’s works, from translucent abstract compositions and bold, expressive brushstrokes to deeply symbolic and layered mixed-media pieces.

Who Cares

A Feeling for Pure Painting

Lucid Dreaming

“Roy Veneracion’s ability to unify diverse elements into cohesive and thought-provoking pieces reflects a profound understanding of art as a living, evolving dialogue. We are honored to showcase this exhibit in the Art Gallery,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Roy Veneracion: The Art of Syncretism is on display at the Art Gallery until August 16, 2025. Admission is free. For interested buyers, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, or email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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Wearable Wallet? GCash is First to Do It in the Philippines with HUAWEI wearables!

Many Filipinos are masters of finding the next “life hack.” We’re always finding new ways to move smarter, live lighter, and stay ahead. And that’s why wearable payments feel like the kind of upgrade we’ve always needed.

Many of us have probably seen wearable payments in action while traveling abroad through a seamless checkout at a convenience store after a morning run or maybe a quick payment at a café right after a tour. It’s effortless, exciting, but also perceived to be out of reach. A perk reserved for those lucky enough to travel abroad.

At least until now, as GCash brings the next big life hack within everyone’s reach with Watch Pay.

GCash and Huawei are bringing the ease and convenience of wearable payments to the Philippines for the very first time with the launch of Watch Pay, a scannable QR code linked to your GCash wallet built right into your Huawei smartwatch. Whether you’re grabbing groceries, dining out, or buying a new pair of sneakers, your wallet can now be worn on your wrist - and you can experience payments on the go like never before.

Currently available on the HUAWEI Watch Ultimate, Watch 4, Watch 5, Watch Fit 3, Watch Fit 4 Series, Watch GT 4 and 5 Series, Band 10, Watch D2 2, Watch Pay introduces Filipinos to the next-generation way to pay. It’s secure, seamless, and always within arm’s reach, making smarter and more seamless payments available for all.

Simplified and convenient, powered by innovative technology
What makes Watch Pay exciting is the ease it brings to everyday moments all through the same smartwatch that powers your workouts. You’re already tracking your steps, checking your vitals, and logging your workouts with your smartwatch. Now, it’s your wallet too, so smart spending just got even smarter. There’s no need to carry cash or cards when out on your errands, now no more fumbling through your wallet when you’re in a rush or getting caught up with a minor inconvenience like a buggy card terminal.

With Watch Pay, all you need is the QR code that will be conveniently generated on your watch. This QR code will simply be scanned, and you’re good to go. This technology ensures that payments are quick and easy.

Since each transaction still runs through the GCash app, there’s also no need to adjust how you track your spending. You can still find your payments recorded in the app’s transaction history.

Watch Pay is available to all GCash users and is accepted across GCash’s wide network of partner merchants. Imagine how uncomplicated it would be to go grocery shopping at Robinsons Supermarket, buying new shoes at the SM Store, or even paying for a quick snack and coffee at Lawson – all without the trouble of bringing lots of cash with you. It’s subtle, but it does make daily errands feel a little more effortless.

How to link your smartwatch and use Watch Pay

Ready to activate your Watch Pay? Follow these steps below:

1. Open GCash on your smartwatch
2. Tap on Link
3. Scan the QR code with your HUAWEI or Android phone
4. Press Bind and enter the linking code
5. Confirm your device to bind

Easily use Watch Pay by following these simple instructions:

1. Open “settings” on your HUAWEI smartwatch.
2. Search for and tap “Payments”.
3. Tap on “Open GCash”.
4. A QR code will be generated, which the merchant can now scan.

GCash has been a go-to for everything from paying bills to sending money. With the arrival of Watch Pay, the country’s top finance app is taking things a step further once again, bringing a global innovation right to our wrists. With every new feature, GCash is quickly redefining what the best way to pay looks like. Experience it for yourself today and download the GCash app on the App Store or Google Play Store.

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Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep Bring Back Devil Wears Prada Magic in NYC

The streets of New York just got a serious fashion upgrade as The Devil Wears Prada 2 begins filming. Anne Hathaway was seen channeling an evolved Andy Sachs, serving bold, fashion-forward looks that hint at her character’s growth in the industry.

 

 

Meanwhile, Meryl Streep turned heads in two separate locations, fully embodying Miranda Priestly in signature icy elegance—think sweeping coats and sleek sophistication. Though not yet seen together, their individual appearances are enough to spark excitement.

 

Stanley Tucci who plays Nigel was also seen along with Hathaway in a meeting that could probably a coffee shop or their office. 

Coming back to the fashion world are Emily Blunt and Tracie Thoms with new characters by Kenneth Branagh, Lucy Liu, Simone Ashley and more. With the sequel set in today’s digital fashion era, one thing’s clear: the devil—and the drama—still wears Prada.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 comes to theaters on May 1, 2026 from 20th Century Studios, written by Aline Brosh McKenna and directed by David Frankel.

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The Sandbox Collective welcomes new Artistic Director Sab Jose

Award-winning actress and director Sab Jose steps in to lead Sandbox Collective into its next chapter

Toff De Venecia passes torch to Sandbox's new Artistic Director Sab Jose

After more than a decade of visionary leadership, award-winning theater director and cultural advocate Toff De Venecia is taking a well-deserved break from The Sandbox Collective to pursue postgraduate studies abroad. De Venecia co-founded the company in 2014 and has since become a driving force in both the local theater and creative industries. His final directorial production before his hiatus is Side Show: The Musical, which opens this July.

Stepping into the role of Artistic Director is Sab Jose, a seasoned actress, director, and Sandbox’s longtime Marketing & PR Director. Jose holds a Master’s degree in Musical Theatre from the U.K.’s Guildford School of Acting and brings almost two decades of experience in performance, education, and arts advocacy. She has worked extensively onstage and off, earning critical acclaim for both her performances and creative leadership.

“I’m honored and excited to continue the incredible work Toff has started,” Jose shares. “The Sandbox Collective has always been a space for bold, boundary-pushing work—and I look forward to expanding that vision while keeping our roots in advocacy and arts education.” A new season lineup is currently in the works and will be announced soon.

Under De Venecia’s direction, The Sandbox Collective staged a string of groundbreaking productions including No Filter, Dani Girl, Next to Normal, and Little Shop of Horrors. Beyond theater, De Venecia’s impact spans national cultural policy and creative governance. His legacy includes key laws like the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, and initiatives like the Philippine Creative Cities Network.

Side Show: The Musical—De Venecia’s final production with Sandbox (for now)—runs from July 26 to August 17, 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets are available via ticket2me.net/sandboxsideshow. For updates, follow @thesandboxco on social media or visit www.thesandboxco.com.

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