Meet Arnel, the Original Conyo Boy of Bagets The Musical

The barkada of Bagets The Musical just got bigger—and a little more polished. The spotlight now falls on Arnel, the suave teen first portrayed by Raymond Lauchengco in the 1984 classic. Torn between his own dreams and his mother’s high expectations, Arnel returns to the stage for a new generation, this time brought to life by Ethan David and KD Estrada.

Ethan David Steps Into the Role
Known for his work with the P-pop group G.A.T. and TV credits like Seducing Drake Palma, Ang Mutya ng Section E, and Avenues of the Diamond, Ethan David is no stranger to performing. Yet theater presents a fresh challenge.

“I did theater abroad, but since coming home, I’ve focused more on screen work,” he shares. “On TV, subtle expressions can work. On stage, I have to make my movements bigger and project my voice for the audience.”

 

Rather than shy away, Ethan leans in—training his voice, building stamina, and channeling Arnel’s loyalty to his friends. “Arnel’s always all-out for his barkada,” he says. “I want the audience to feel that energy and see he’s there for them, whether in big gestures or small ones.”

Like his character, Ethan knows what it’s like to wrestle with big choices. “Despite his flaws, I hope the audience sees how he musters up courage and motivates others to do the same,” he adds.

KD Estrada Finds His Match
For KD Estrada, stepping into Arnel’s shoes feels almost effortless. “When I auditioned, my number one pick was Arnel because I see myself in him,” he says. “If he were real right now, he would be exactly like me.”

KD admires Arnel’s quiet strength—fun but responsible, never one to give in to peer pressure. “In the film, you can always see his hesitance,” he notes. “He doesn’t just do things because they’re ‘in.’”

 

That self-awareness comes with a cost, something KD understands. “I’m grateful to have a strong support system at home,” he shares. “But we all go through that phase where we don’t know whether to follow our own dreams or what other people want for us.”

This marks KD’s second theater outing after his debut in Walang Aray with Alexa Ilacad. He’s also appeared in series such as Unloving You, Bola Bola, Run to Me, and Pira-pirasong Paraiso. His biggest takeaway from playing Arnel? “The friends you make in high school are some of the best friends you’ll ever have.”

A Timeless Coming-of-Age Story
Arnel’s journey proves that the struggles of growing up—finding courage, balancing expectations, and staying true to yourself—never really fade. With Ethan David and KD Estrada sharing the role, his story is set to resonate with both longtime fans and first-time viewers.

Bagets The Musical runs January 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, with more cast reveals coming soon. Joining David and Estrada are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, and Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton.

Produced by VIVA Communications Inc., The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts, and guided by the creative team of PETA Plus—director Maribel Legarda, playwright J-mee Katanyag, and musical director Vince Lim—this new staging promises to capture the heart and nostalgia of the original film.

Be first in line for tickets by joining the waitlist at newportworldresorts.com/bagets-musical-waitlist, and follow @vivaartistsagency, @philippinestar, and @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.

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Milo Cruz and Migo Valid to play Bagets’ legendary daredevil in Bagets The Musical

Every barkada needs that one friend who stirs up trouble but somehow saves the day. In Bagets The Musical, that spark belongs to Tonton—the resident daredevil first made famous by William Martinez in the 1984 classic. Now, two rising performers are set to breathe new life into the character as VIVA Communications Inc., The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts bring the iconic film to the stage.

Meet Milo Cruz and Migo Valid
Sharing the role of Tonton are Milo Cruz and Migo Valid, both ready to charm thousands of theatergoers with their own spin on the fun-loving troublemaker.

Milo Cruz and Migo Valid

For Milo, Bagets The Musical arrives just as he prepares to debut with the P-pop group Xerenade. “Tonton is a repeater, yes,” he says, “but if we move past his kalokohan, we see a normal kid who learns life the hard way.” He remembers the carefree energy of high school—late assignments and long hangouts—but also the inevitability of growing up. “We can’t stay kids forever,” he adds. Nervous yet excited, Milo promises to draw on his singing and dancing background to give audiences a layered, heartfelt Tonton.

Film actor Migo Valid (Hold Me Close, A Glimpse of Forever, Penduko) makes his theater debut with the same role. “I just wanted to make the panel smile,” he recalls of his first audition at PETA. “Being cast as Tonton is such a blessing.” Migo admits he relates to the character’s restless spirit: “Back in high school, I had my wild moments, too. But those experiences helped me grow.” Like Tonton, he’s had moments of doubt about his path, but his philosophy is simple—keep moving forward.

A Musical Blast from the Past
Bagets The Musical promises a nostalgic journey to a pre-Internet era, when friendships were forged face-to-face and every adventure felt bigger than life. Alongside Milo and Migo, Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez will play Gilbert, with more cast members to be announced soon.

Guided by the creative team of PETA Plus—director Maribel Legarda, playwright J-mee Katanyag, and musical director Vince Lim—the production will run January 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

Fans eager to relive the magic can join the waitlist now at newportworldresorts.com/bagets-musical-waitlist to be first in line for tickets. For updates, follow VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), The Philippine STAR (@philippinestar), and Newport World Resorts (@newportworldresorts) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Get ready to meet the new Tonton—and fall for his charm all over again.

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Theater Review: Shorts & Briefs by Night Festival

Stepping into Café Shylo feels like entering a friend’s living room: intimate, warm, and only a foot away from the performers. The nearness heightens every glance and gesture, creating an almost tactile connection between actors and audience. A thoughtful touch was the presence of sign language interpreters, a gesture of inclusivity that deserves applause.

Below are the evening’s six short plays—distinct in voice, daring in subject, and bound by the festival’s playful spirit.

1. SH*T
Jeremi Flores’ script follows a gay couple trying to steady their relationship while raising an adopted child, even as old wounds from judgmental parents resurface. Director Phi Palmos delivers a quietly powerful debut, balancing tenderness and tension. It’s a story of love’s limits—how sometimes we sacrifice even what we cherish most for the sake of those we love.

2. Reklamasyon Headquarters
Who knew a comedy about male and female genitals could be both educational and hilarious? Through witty dialogue and clever costume design, the play imagines private parts suddenly able to speak their minds. The result is a cheeky takedown of sexual taboos and a reminder to respect our own bodies.

3. The Red Hotel
A chance encounter between a call boy and a devout churchgoer becomes an unexpected dance of flirtation, shame, and mutual respect. The performers tease and charm their way from awkward small talk to a consensual revelation of their wilder sides. It’s funny, daring, and surprisingly sweet.

4. Ang Babae at ang Mangga
This whimsical piece is a mythical love story—complete with a gender-flipped manananggal. Here, the man is the shy winged creature, while the woman is delightfully uninhibited. Both humorous and subversive, it playfully normalizes frank talk about sexuality and desire.

5. Josefino at ang Estatwa
Romance and poetry intertwine in this elegant tale reminiscent of the Machete legend. The writing is lyrical, almost dreamlike, offering intimacy without vulgarity. It’s a gentle reminder that sensual storytelling can be both tasteful and mesmerizing.

6. Warla Arena
The finale is the festival’s boldest piece—a drag-queen spectacle that feels like Face 2 Face colliding with a fetish fair. Toy-centered fantasies take the spotlight, and while no nudity appears, the suggestiveness is unmistakable. It’s playful, provocative, and impossible to look away from.

The Shorts & Briefs Festival thrives on audacity and variety. From tender domestic drama to gleeful sexual comedy, it embraces topics that Philippine theater often tiptoes around. Its close-quarters setup turns each performance into a shared secret between actor and audience, proving that intimacy—both emotional and physical—can be the most powerful stage of all.

Tickets for the Shorts & Briefs Festival are priced at ₱750, which already includes a complimentary drink and admission to all six plays in one sitting. The festival runs from September 20 to October 5, 2025, with performances every weekend at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM at Café Shylo in Pasig (Showroom by Projects Unlimited, Skyway Twin Towers Condominium). To reserve a seat, simply send a Viber message to 0919-487-3983 and follow the instructions provided. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited and the space’s intimate setup fills quickly. For updates and confirmations, follow Eksena PH on Facebook or Instagram. Please note that the festival is strictly for audiences 18 years old and above.

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Your Final Shot: Scan to Pay with GCash and Win a Trip to the NBA China Games 2025

Calling all diehard NBA fans! Get ready to experience the courtside action closer to home than ever before! GCash is giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the NBA China Games 2025 at The Venetian Arena in Macao.

Two lucky winners will score 2 tickets each to watch the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns face off live, complete with flights and accommodation.

Your Passport to the NBA China Games

From September 22 to 30, 2025, every single transaction worth P4,000 or more that you make using GCash Scan to Pay abroad will earn you one digital scratch card.

One lucky winner will win a set of two tickets to the NBA China Game on October 10 and a Fan Meet and Greet pass on October 11, including a roundtrip ticket and accommodations. Another winner will win a set of two tickets to the NBA China Games on October 12, including a roundtrip ticket and accommodations.

But that's not all – you also have a chance to win GCash | Travel+ and GCash | Alipay+ Overseas Offline vouchers. These can be used for flights, hotels, eSims, car rentals, and in-store payments.

To join, simply log in to your GCash app and register on the Alipay+ Destination Campaign page. Each registered user can earn a maximum of five scratch cards during the promo period, so the more you use GCash abroad, the more chances you have to win!

Effortless Travel, All-Star Style with GCash

GCash Scan to Pay makes your international trip smoother than a fast break. Whether you're dining on street food in Thailand and Malaysia, sightseeing through the historic streets of Japan and South Korea, or shopping for the latest trends in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macao, you can use GCash in over 80M Alipay+ merchants. Just like at home, you can use Scan-to-Pay at retail stores, food establishments, groceries and convenience stores.

The best part? You'll always get real-time, competitive foreign exchange rates with zero service fees, allowing you to maximize your budget for more memorable moments. Plus, you can instantly view your wallet balance in the local currency, giving you total control over your spending without missing a second of the action. Be sure to look out for exclusive promos and deals that are only available when you use GCash Alipay+ Scan to Pay.

Using GCash to pay for your purchases takes just a few steps. Simply tap QR on the dashboard, scan the merchant’s QR code, input the amount, and confirm the payment. You may also opt to “Generate QR,” then select “Pay abroad with Alipay+,” and show your QR to the cashier for scanning. You will then get a receipt in both the Philippine Peso and the local currency.

Your next trip abroad could be your ticket to thrilling courtside action and an unforgettable travel experience. Start scanning to pay with GCash today and shoot your shot at the NBA China Games 2025.

Ready for your next trip? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

For full promo mechanics, visit the GCash app.
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-236852 Series of 2025

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Levi’s® x Nike: Legendary Denim Meets Iconic Sneakers

Two icons, one unforgettable drop. Levi’s® and Nike have joined forces once again—this time bringing the timeless appeal of denim to one of the most celebrated sneakers of all time, the Air Max 95.

The latest Levi’s® x Nike collaboration reimagines one of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes, with each pair featuring co-branded details that highlight both brands’ unmistakable style. Expect three striking denim editions, blending Levi’s® legendary craftsmanship with Nike’s cutting-edge sneaker design—a bold nod to heritage style and modern streetwear.

Launch Details You Can’t Miss

Mark your calendars for September 25. These exclusive sneakers will be available only in-store at:

• Levi’s® Shangri-La Plaza

• Levi’s® SM Mall of Asia

• Levi’s® SM North EDSA

Doors open at 10:00 AM, and with first-come, first-served entry, expect lines to form early.

Whether you’re a sneakerhead, a denim devotee, or simply love standout collaborations, this limited-edition drop is set to be a game-changer. Don’t sleep on it—once they’re gone, they’re gone.

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Reliable Cooling Solutions for Modern Businesses with LG Single Split Air Conditioning System and Oil-Free Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller

From compact workspaces to expansive business hubs, advanced energy efficiency, sustainable refrigerants, and connected monitoring make ease and productivity go hand in hand

Having the right HVAC system is crucial to employee comfort and overall well-being, with most of the day spent in the workplace. Creating the ideal office environment goes beyond design and furniture, and also relies on reliable and efficient climate control. With LG’s advanced HVAC solutions, businesses can foster a workspace where performance thrives, while keeping sustainability and convenience at the forefront.

LG Single Split Air Conditioning System for Small to Medium Businesses

Think of a café where customers enjoy their coffee in a cozy atmosphere, or a boutique store where shoppers take their time browsing new collections. One of the simplest ways to improve comfort in small to medium-sized office and retail settings is through the LG Single Split Air Conditioning System. This solution offers a range of advantages, including:

1. Compact and Versatile Design
   With just one indoor and one outdoor unit, the system provides efficient cooling while blending seamlessly into any interior. Its compatibility with a range of indoor units, from sleek wall-mounted types to stylish cassettes and powerful floor-standing options, gives business owners flexibility to match their unique space.
2. Smart Inverter Technology
   The LG Smart Inverter Compressor adjusts airflow intelligently to maintain the ideal indoor climate while optimizing energy use. This ensures steady performance even during irregular power supply or extreme weather.
3. Streamlined System Control
   Through the LG ThinQ™ app and kW Manager feature, business owners can easily manage temperature settings and track energy consumption directly from their phone, making energy management more convenient than ever.

LG Centrifugal Chiller for Large-Scale Facilities

For larger environments such as office towers, hotels, shopping complexes, and healthcare facilities, the LG Oil-Free Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller delivers powerful yet sustainable cooling that ensures ease of mind without compromise. Designed with both performance and efficiency in mind, it provides key benefits such as:

1. Oil-Free Magnetic Bearings with Advanced Inverter Technology
   The no-contact magnetic bearings eliminate the need for oil lubrication, lowering maintenance needs while improving reliability. Low-noise impellers keep environments calm and focused. To further ensure stability, the inverter, built specifically for chillers, uses IGBT technology as a harmonic filter to minimize harmonic current, keeping Total Demand Distortion (TDDi) below 5%. This protects equipment from overheating or damage while ensuring consistent, reliable performance.
2. Sustainable and Secure Performance
   The eco-friendly R-134a refrigerant has an ultra-low global warming potential of just 1 and zero ozone depletion potential, reflecting LG’s commitment to sustainability. In addition, a built-in Online UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) safeguards the bearing and control system in case of sudden outages, providing up to 20 minutes of emergency power and restoring operation within 70 seconds, preventing rotor damage and ensuring operational continuity.
3. Smart Operation and Control
   Advanced tools like a 15-inch touchscreen, wireless BECON Cloud Remote Control, and AI-enabled predictive maintenance simplify management. These innovations reduce the burden on facility teams, allowing them to focus on creating consistently cool, inviting, and well-maintained spaces.

LG’s HVAC solutions are built to deliver ease and reliability, helping businesses shape environments that bring out the best in people. From smart, compact systems to robust, sustainable chillers, each innovation supports productivity, strengthens connections, and uplifts everyday experiences. By providing well-being and efficiency at every step, LG becomes a trusted partner in every business venture. Life’s Good when technology helps modern businesses grow and people flourish.

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/business/hvac/commercial-end-user/ and stay connected by following LG HVAC Solutions Philippines (@LGHVACSolutionsPH) on Facebook, and LinkedIn, as well as LG Global (@lgphilippines) on www.facebook.com/lgphilippines, Instagram, Tiktok.

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The Manila Hotel receives Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the 1st Philippine Tourism Awards

The Manila Hotel has been honored with the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award at the first-ever Philippine Tourism Awards, organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. The recognition highlights outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, with a focus on excellence, sustainability, and innovation.

A landmark in Philippine history, The Manila Hotel was cited for its enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. The accolade underscores the hotel’s commitment to preserving its storied heritage while evolving to meet the needs of the modern traveler.

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that we accept this award from the Department of Tourism,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “This recognition reaffirms our belief that true hospitality lies in creating unforgettable experiences, from a warm welcome at the door, to impeccable service at every touchpoint, to the genuine attention extended to every guest. This award belongs not only to The Manila Hotel, but to the legacy of Filipino hospitality we strive to share with the world.”

The Philippine Tourism Awards—the first of its kind—aim to honor institutions and individuals that elevate Philippine tourism on the global stage. This platform paid tribute to enterprises that laid the foundations of Philippine tourism—pioneers and establishments that have significantly contributed to the industry’s growth over the years.

For The Manila Hotel, the Tourism Pillar Excellence Award stands as both a celebration of its rich heritage and a testament to its unwavering commitment to service excellence. For over a century, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of Filipino pride, service, and hospitality. Today, it continues to uphold its legacy as the true heart of the Philippines.

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