September 8, 2025

A Special Day for Lolos and Lolas at SM Malls in the East

Last Sunday, September 7, families went to SM Malls in the East to come together and celebrate the everyday heroes who have filled our lives with wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love—our grandparents.

At SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown, the day was filled with moments designed to honor grannies and grandpas in ways that matter most: through time, memories, and shared experiences.

Energizing Zumba parties made lolos and lolas grooving to the beat, proving that staying active is always in style. After working up an appetite, they also enjoyed a hearty meal at the mall’s wide array of dining destinations, where favorite comfort food meets family bonding at the table. Shopping also becomes sweeter when you’re choosing gifts especially for them—whether it’s a thoughtful token, a new outfit, or something that sparks joy and nostalgia.



Adding to the festive atmosphere are busking sessions that bring back the soundtrack of their heydays. Classic hits will fill the air, reminding everyone that music is a timeless bridge across generations.

Even after Grandparents’ Day, make the celebration more meaningful by giving your grandparents not just material gifts but also the gift of time. Sit with them, share stories, laugh, and create new memories together in a place where families always feel at home.

Join SM Malls in the East this Sunday and let’s turn Grandparents’ Day into a beautiful celebration of love, life, and legacy. Because at SM, it’s always more special when shared with the ones we cherish most.

Share:

NephroPlus Expands Operations in the Philippines with Acquisition of Six Additional Dialysis Clinics


NephroPlus, Asia’s largest dialysis network (Source: Frost & Sullivan Report), has significantly strengthened its presence in the Philippines with the acquisition of six new dialysis clinics.
 
This strategic expansion brings the company’s total footprint in the country to 39 clinics, delivering high-quality, patient-centric care to over 2,093 patients nationwide.

The newly acquired clinics are located in
Zamboanga City; Santiago, Isabela; Cabuyao, Laguna; Binondo, Manila; CP Garcia Avenue,
Diliman, Quezon City; and E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City.

This acquisition is part of NephroPlus’s broader international growth strategy and underscores its long-term commitment to the Philippines.

The company continues to invest in enhancing operational efficiency, clinical excellence, and access to dialysis services across the country.

NephroPlus is renowned for its use of advanced technology and data-driven care models, including remote patient monitoring and real-time clinical data analytics, which enable superior clinical outcomes and operational performance.

With a network of 490+ clinics across five countries and more than 290 cities, NephroPlus provides life-sustaining dialysis treatment to over 32,000 patients every month, positioning it as a global leader in kidney care. (Source: Frost & Sullivan Report)

Rohit Singh, Group CEO of NephroPlus, commented:
“This expansion marks a major milestone in our journey in the Philippines, which has now become our second-largest country of operations after India. We are deeply honoured by the trust placed in us by doctors, patients, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. As we grow, we remain steadfast in our mission to support the Philippines’ goal of achieving universal health coverage — through infrastructure development, clinical innovation, workforce capacity-building, and an unwavering focus on delivering patient-first care.”

This development reaffirms NephroPlus’s commitment to making world-class, affordable dialysis care accessible to more patients across Asia and beyond.
Share:

September 7, 2025

Movie Review: The Conjuring: Last Rites

The long-running Conjuring universe closes its haunted doors with The Conjuring: Last Rites, a fitting farewell that still knows how to raise goosebumps. As the final installment, it carries the weight of a decade of demonic lore, yet manages to deliver fresh shivers and a surprisingly warm curtain call for Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga).
The scares remain sharp and cunning. Director Michael Chaves stretches suspense until it almost snaps, with shots lingering just long enough for you to scour every shadowy corner, waiting for the inevitable jump. Often, the terror lurks in the periphery, teasing you before finally striking, which makes each payoff land harder.

They could have explained why evil has been after Judy Warren since she was born. The central haunting revolves around an old woman and her deranged husband, a macabre pairing whose backstory is only briefly recounted. For me it’s a missed opportunity. Flashbacks or deeper exploration of their twisted history could have added richer menace and emotional weight. Still, their ghostly appearances, complete with unnerving makeup and silent rage, are nightmarish enough to leave an impression.
Production design remains a series hallmark, and here it’s a character of its own. Every creak of wood and flicker of candlelight feels loaded. An antique mirror, never overtly used as a scare device, radiates dread simply by existing in the frame, a testament to the crew’s craft.

But this isn’t all darkness. The film concludes on a note of peace as Judy Warren (Mia Tomlinson) weds, offering the beleaguered family a moment of long-awaited calm. Fans will appreciate the affectionate cameos from franchise godfather James Wan to Lili Taylor, who starred in the very first Conjuring, which feel like a bow to the faithful audience.
The Conjuring: Last Rites may not break new ground, but it honors the series’ legacy with nerve-fraying suspense, unsettling imagery, and a finale that lets the Warrens and viewers finally exhale. Still showing in cinemas from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Share:

September 4, 2025

Celebrity Moms Share Back-to-School Struggles: You’re Not Alone

Jolina Magdangal, Dimples Romana, and Angeline Quinto share how GCash helps provide everyday gaan for moms

School’s officially back, and with it the early mornings, baon prep, never-ending shopping lists, and long days for parents – especially moms. In the newest episode of Mommy, G Ka Na?, celebrity host and mom of two Jolina Magdangal-Escueta opens up about the pressure of balancing her numerous responsibilities during the back-to-school season.

Together with guests Dimples Romana and Angeline Quinto, the candid conversation turns personal, and the three moms share personal stories, smart strategies, and comforting words for moms who may be overwhelmed with the back-to-school rush. They remind each other, “Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.”

Amid the laughs and real talk, Jolina, Angeline, and Dimples reveal some of their back-to- school survival tricks. Angeline, for example, swears by the power of a cute lunchbox (or fun shapes) to get her kids to eat. “Kahit simpleng sandwich lang, basta cute ang baunan, ganado na agad si Sylvio,” she shares.

She and Jolina also agree that fancy recipes aren’t necessary. Instead, a little bit of creativity and a whole lot of love go a long way. As Jolina puts it, “Hindi kailangang mahal ang baon, basta punong-puno ng effort at love, ramdam ‘yan ng mga anak natin.”

Then there’s the never-ending to-do list. Groceries, bills, errands. Sometimes, when schedules get too packed, there are things forgotten along the way. For when it gets overwhelming, the three moms all agree - shopping online and paying with GCash is the ultimate lifesaver. While doing the laundry or helping with their kids’ homework, they can check off items on their grocery list without even leaving the house!

Dimples, meanwhile, brings up the challenges she faces having to keep up with the constant stream of expenses once the school year starts. From school projects and extracurricular activities to unexpected gastos, the financial pressure doesn’t end after enrollment.

“Kala mo tapos ka na, pero may bagong shoes, uniforms, at pang-extracurricular pa pala,” she opens up. Her solution? Breaking down the big-ticket items. With GCash’s GGives, she can split purchases like gadgets or sports gear into smaller payments, with zero down payment needed.

And of course, there are the surprise expenses – like when emergencies happen. For those moments, Jolina reminds viewers that they can lean on GCredit, which provides users with a credit line of up to PHP 50,000.

Angeline Quinto, Jolina Magdangal-Escueta and Dimples Romana

For even bigger needs like tuition fees, there’s also GLoan, which lets users borrow up to PHP 150,000 instantly, with affordable terms and quick disbursement straight to their GCash wallet. “At least alam mong may masasandalan ka. Hindi ka kakabahan agad,” they agree. It's peace of mind for those who are faced with unexpected expenses before payday.

Watch Mommy, G Ka Na? online

Throughout the episodes, a recurring theme emerges: moms can learn a lot from other moms. “Okay lang humingi ng tulong,” Jolina reminds viewers. “May mga kapwa mommy, may mga tools — tulungan tayo.”

Stream Mommy, G Ka Na? on the official GCash YouTube channel. Join the conversation online with fellow moms finding gaan and ginhawa in every stage of school-year parenting by following @gcashofficial on Instagram and Facebook.

Share:

September 1, 2025

Manila Meets the Experiential Architect: LG xboom by will.i.am Powers the Future of Sound in AI-Powered Design

Where pop culture meets technology, nine-time Grammy winner and creative visionary will.i.am brings his design genius to the newest LG xboom line, delivering an immersive, AI-powered xbooming experience that redefines the future of sound.
LG Philippines Product Director for Media Solutions Mr. Yongwoo Park with LG Experiential Architect will.i.am
Global music icon and tech innovator will.i.am touched down in Manila to share the story behind his groundbreaking collaboration with LG Electronics. The result: LG xboom by will.i.am, an AI-powered speaker lineup crafted with bold creativity and cutting-edge sound technology, designed by will.i.am himself as the brand’s Experiential Architect.

The exclusive press conference in Manila was a cultural milestone, not just for tech and music enthusiasts, but for anyone passionate about creativity and innovation. will.i.am energized the room as he shared the vision behind the partnership, blending pop culture, AI, and groundbreaking design into a speaker experience that goes beyond playing music to creating moments that truly connect and inspire.

Known globally as both a music icon and boundary-pushing innovator, William Adams, better known as will.i.am, has spent his career at the crossroads of sound, style, and technology. A nine-time Grammy Award winner, he’s not only shaped pop music but also founded cutting-edge platforms like the AI-driven RAiDiO, cementing his place as a creative force in both the music and tech industries. His role as Experiential Architect for the LG xboom lineup reflects a natural evolution, blending high design, immersive sound, and AI intelligence to redefine how people experience music in everyday life.

LG Philippines Product Director for Media Solutions, Mr. Yongwoo Park, recognized the value of merging artistry with technology. “We are honored to welcome a global icon, an individual who has made an extraordinary impact not only in music but also in advocacy, championing access to creative and technological education for underserved students in Los Angeles,” he said. He explained that will.i.am’s role as Experiential Architect brought a unique creative influence to the development of the LG xboom AI, ensuring each detail was designed to deliver refined sound and immersive experiences. He further added, “This partnership embodies LG’s mission to create innovations that go beyond functionality, inspiring people to live, create, and connect in meaningful ways.”

The collaboration between LG and will.i.am began organically, sparked by mutual admiration and a shared passion for innovation. Having developed his own tech products since 2015, will.i.am was already deeply embedded in the world of consumer electronics. “About a year and a half ago, LG approached me with the idea of collaborating on a line of speakers. Honestly, I was blown away, LG is one of the best consumer electronics companies in the world. I’ve always been a fan.”
As a longtime LG customer, proudly using entertainment and appliances in his home — will.i.am described the moment as surreal. “It made perfect sense,” he recalled, reflecting on how naturally the partnership aligned with his lifestyle and design philosophy. The timing felt right, and the collaboration felt personal. "I use LG products in my own home, the TVs, the washer and dryer, the fridge, all of it. So when they walked into my studio and said they wanted to work together, I even called my mom to tell her, and she was just as excited. I’ve always had a deep love for Korea and have collaborated with amazing artists like CL, the queen of K-pop.” he added. "So the idea of working closely with a Korean brand like LG on a project that merges tech, sound, and design was something I couldn’t pass up. I’m truly over the moon about it.”

The LG xboom AI by will.i.am lineup features the Stage 301, Bounce, Grab, and Buds. Designed for outdoor adventures, the xboom Grab and Bounce are built to withstand water, sand, and the unpredictable conditions of everyday life. To demonstrate their durability, LG showcased the speakers fully submerged in water and partially buried in sand—yet the music never stopped. Their lightweight, portable builds make them easy to bring anywhere.

Each product was showcased through an interactive display, allowing guests to experience firsthand how the xboom lineup fits a variety of lifestyles. Actors John Prats and Isabel Oli-Prats explored the range and shared their appreciation for the products’ impressive quality and thoughtful design.
The xboom Stage 301 stood out with its room-filling sound and karaoke-ready mic controls, earning high praise from singer Mix Fenix for its powerful, performance-level audio. The compact xboom Bounce delivered dynamic sound powered by dual passive radiators. Ideal for those constantly on the move, the xboom Grab features a sleek, tube-shaped design that’s easy to carry, while the xboom Buds offer clear, immersive sound with advanced noise cancellation—perfect for commuting, travel, or everyday use.
As the Experiential Architect behind the LG xboom AI line, will.i.am didn’t just lend his name, he shaped the entire sensory journey. From the unboxing to the first sound, every element was designed with intention. ”I pay attention to so many details, what’s the experience? What’s the box fabric? Can you feel the ink on the print?” he explained during a development session. His influence extended far beyond aesthetics. He worked closely with LG’s engineering and design teams to fine-tune the sound profile of the entire xboom family, ensuring consistency in EQ, balance in bass, and harmony across products. “What key should all the sounds be in?” he asked. “The xboom powers on in the key of G — because it’s LG: lower G.” Even the smallest interaction mattered. From the tone that plays when the speaker pairs, to how different units connect sonically in a shared space, will.i.am approached the product line like a composer orchestrating a multisensory performance. “The experience is everything — from the first touch to the first sound,” he said. “There has to be a cohesive experience throughout.”

Adding a homegrown spark to the event, Filipino actors, TV personalities, and content creators Denise Laurel and Eric “Eruption” Tai joined as special guests, bringing their trademark energy, charisma, and proudly local perspective to the experience.

As part of the interactive segment, Denise posed a thoughtful question to will.i.am about how his collaboration with LG might influence the next generation of musicians and creators. “The only product out of the four that’s really built for musicians is the xboom Stage — and it’s my favorite,” will.i.am shared. “It has an aux jack, so if you’re making beats or singing on the go, this is studio quality. I use it when I’m working on music in the studio, and even as a sound reference when I travel.”

With her own performance background and connection to Filipino music culture, Denise highlighted how products like the xboom Stage go beyond professional use, becoming a staple of everyday life and celebration. “You don’t need to be a musician to appreciate Stage,” she said. “We all have karaoke parties, especially during the ‘ber months’ here in the Philippines. And this is perfect for that — it’s portable, powerful, and brings people together.”
The connection between high-quality audio and Filipino cultural life became even clearer when Eric “Eruption” Tai leaned into the deeper impact of sound, reflecting on how music lives at the heart of every Filipino celebration, gathering, and generation. His prompt gave will.i.am space to open up about how premium sound technology, like LG xboom AI, can bridge people across time, space, and culture. will.i.am responded with thoughtfulness and depth. “Music is like the connecting tissue for everyone,” he said. “When you’re going through something, the right song helps you feel it, process it — maybe even heal. And when the sound is clean and clear, there’s nothing in the way. No distractions. Just you and the message.”
After an afternoon full of sharp wit, unexpected insights, and electric energy, will.i.am left the crowd, and the media, completely captivated. With humor, honesty, and effortless storytelling, he turned a tech launch into something far more personal, showing just how deeply he connects innovation with human experience.

When asked how high-quality audio like LG xboom AI can bring people together across generations and cultures, he didn’t miss a beat. “Music is like the connecting tissue for everyone,” he said. “When you’re going through something, the right song helps you feel it, process it, maybe even heal. And when the sound is clean and clear, there’s nothing in the way. No distractions. Just you and the message.”

He emphasized that great audio isn’t just about volume or bass, it’s about clarity, emotion, and access. Whether it's hearing a song that changed your life, a podcast that challenges your thinking, or an audiobook that moves you forward, sound is one of the most powerful tools for connection. “You could listen on your phone speaker... or you could XBOOM it,” he laughed. “Yeah, XBOOM that.”

But will.i.am didn’t stop there. In true form, he turned the spotlight toward the Philippines as a global creative force. “Now’s the time for dreamers to dream the biggest dreams imaginable and that includes the Philippines becoming a superpower. Filipinos are talented beyond talent. Engineers, singers, doctors, dancers, all of it. Filipinos are freaking awesome.” he said.
LG reaffirmed its mission to empower music and listeners with products that go beyond sound, delivering connection, culture, and creativity. With will.i.am’s forward-thinking vision shaping the xboom AI line, LG continues to show how music can inspire, connect, and amplify life’s most memorable celebrations.

Life’s Good when technology goes beyond innovation and creates times that truly matter. With the LG xboom AI by will.i.am, music becomes more than just sound, it becomes a movement. At the end of the day, life isn’t just about the latest technology, but about the lasting impact it leaves and the joy it brings to everyday living. Learn more at https://www.lg.com/ph/audio/xboom and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on LinkedInFacebook, Instagram and Tiktok.
Share:

August 30, 2025

Theater Review: PETA’s “Walang Aray”

I was invited to the special press preview of PETA’s Walang Aray, a musical based on Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat. While rooted in tradition, the show uses humor and updated punch lines inspired by today’s headlines, making it lively, entertaining, and easy for younger audiences to relate to.

The cast of PETA's "Walang Aray" 2025

The cast delivered performances that made the story fresh and engaging. Trans actress Lance Reblando gave a breakout performance as Julia. She not only showed powerful vocals but also an emotional depth that made her character unforgettable. Her ability to shift from comedic timing to heartfelt moments was impressive, and it’s the kind of stage presence that earns genuine standing ovations.

Lance Reblado as Julia and Gio Gahol as Tenyong

Gio Gahol, who is no stranger to the role of Tenyong, once again proved why he fits the part so well. His familiarity with the character allowed him to bring ease, confidence, and natural charm to the stage. As the leading man, he remains a strong presence to watch out for, balancing humor and sincerity in his delivery.

Jolina Magdangal, in her first musical theater role as Juana, proved she can hold her own on stage. She owned every scene she was in and showed great promise. Similarly, Ice Seguerra’s take on Lucas was heartfelt and engaging, reminding the audience of his strength as both singer and actor. It was clear both Jolina and Ice brought their personal stamp to their characters, making them stand out despite limited spotlight.

The rest of the ensemble also gave strong support: Kiki Baento (Monica), Johnnie Moran (Padre Alfaro), Bene Manaois (Miguel), and Gie Onida (Don Tadeo) each brought humor and energy that made the show fun from start to finish.

Ensemble

Fans can now also enjoy Walang Aray beyond the theater with the official cast recording, now streaming on Spotify. Produced in partnership with Soundesign Manila, the album features songs by Vince Lim such as “Front Act,” “Pangako ’Yan,” “Huwag Mo Akong Saktan,” “Tipo Kong Lalaki,” “Luv U 4 Ever,” “Walang Aray Finale,” and the newly released “Tumindig at Lumaban” with “Bayan Ko.” It’s a fun way to relive the show and sing along with the cast anytime.

Overall, Walang Aray proves how a classic can be retold in a way that feels both timeless and modern. With Lance Reblando’s powerhouse performance, Gio Gahol’s confident leading man turn, and the delightful presence of Jolina Magdangal and Ice Seguerra, the show is both entertaining and meaningful—a must-watch on the PETA stage.

Walang Aray runs until October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater. For more show information, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater. Tickets are available via ticket2me.net.

Share:

August 29, 2025

LG adopts eco-conscious manufacturing innovations for 4-way system air conditioner

Serious About Sustainability, Company Introduces New Material and Production Process to Minimize Environmental Impact
LG Electronics (LG) is reducing plastic consumption and carbon emissions by adopting a new material and manufacturing process for its commercial 4-way system air conditioners. Aligned with the company’s Better Life for All ESG vision, these latest efforts demonstrate an unwavering commitment to minimizing environmental impacts.

TÜV Rheinland, a global testing and certification organization, recently confirmed that LG’s newly instituted production process has lowered carbon emissions from the manufacturing of its 4-way system air conditioners to 14.85 kilograms of CO₂ equivalents* per unit. Along with the shift in manufacturing method, the primary driver of this reduction is the introduction of a new material used for the air conditioners’ exterior panels.
Moving away from conventional plastic manufacturing techniques, LG employs a foaming injection molding process whereby nitrogen gas is injected into the mold to create bubbles within the material. This innovative approach reduces plastic use by approximately 900 grams per unit. Additionally, LG has replaced the use of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) with Polypropylene (PP), which has a lower carbon footprint.

These improvements are expected to cut plastic consumption by roughly 270 tons annually and CO₂ equivalent carbon emissions by over 4,400 tons each year – a reduction comparable to the carbon absorbed in one year by a 30-year-old pine forest covering more than 580 soccer fields.

LG began applying its foaming injection molding method to 4-way system air conditioners in June and plans to gradually expand it to other residential and commercial models.
In pursuit of carbon neutrality, LG aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 54.6 percent by 2030 compared to 2017 levels, as outlined in its Sustainability Report. To reach this target, the company is integrating high-efficiency equipment into its manufacturing processes and adopting renewable energy sources to produce high-efficiency appliances leveraging its proprietary Core Tech.

“The new material and manufacturing process we’ve introduced for our 4-way system air conditioner underscores our efforts to minimizing environmental impacts,” said Bae Cheung-hyun, head of the System Air Conditioners Business at the LG ES Company. “LG will continue to leverage innovative technologies to develop eco-conscious air conditioners for a healthier planet.”

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology—it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at www.lg.com/ph and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on LinkedInFacebookInstagram and Tiktok.
Share:

Search This Blog

Intellifluence google page rank

Featured Post

Golden Easter Celebrations and Holy Week Traditions Await at The Manila Hotel

Families and travelers can look forward to a meaningful and festive Holy Week at The Manila Hotel as the Grand Dame of the Philippines unve...

Archives