LG Reaffirms Universal Value of Life through AI-Powered Brand Campaign

LG Electronics (LG) announced the success of its AI-powered Radio Optimism campaign, which revealed a universal truth: despite the rapid advances in technology, love and gratitude toward family and loved ones remain life’s foremost priorities.

Available in six languages, the creative platform inspired people globally to create more than 700,000 personalized songs, with the Philippines standing out by generating 33,000 – the highest in the APAC region. These AI-generated tracks – listened to and shared over 1.5 million times – highlighted the enduring importance of human connection across cultures.

Anchored on the strong familial ties of global Filipinos to their loved ones back home, Radio Optimism was designed to counter the sense of disconnection often associated with social media. It invited users to write a message to a loved one, select a genre and vibe, and generate a one-of-a-kind AI song. By turning music into a heartfelt gesture, the campaign brought LG’s Life’s Good brand promise into the digital spaces where people most often connect.

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Expressions of love proved most prominent, appearing in over 30 percent of the songs, followed by messages of gratitude and encouragement. Family emerged as the most frequent recipient, followed by friends, reaffirming that when it comes to care and affection, people turn first to those closest to them.

The campaign drew an overwhelming response, generating over 30 million social engagements worldwide and 2.4 billion views of its content. Partnerships with global and local influencers amplified its reach, including Australian father-daughter duo Ben and Zara, who created a special birthday song for Ben’s son, and Brazilian creator Jessie Shen, who created a touching song for her partner.

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The campaign also captured unique cultural moments, such as sports fans crafting team anthems and pet owners dedicating songs to their companions, illustrating the evolving ways people express and share what matters most.

“Through this creative campaign, we believe we helped people rediscover the enduring values that remain unchanged even in times of change and volatility,” said Kim Hyo-eun, head of LG’s Brand Management Division. “It deeply resonated with people worldwide, reflecting the lasting value of Life’s Good. We will continue to engage with them, upholding this promise and inspiring optimism for a better life.”

The Radio Optimism campaign demonstrates how AI, when used thoughtfully, can strengthen emotional bonds in the digital age. By enabling users to create personalized songs trained on properly licensed music from original artists, LG upheld its commitment to responsible innovation while fostering a global movement of optimism and meaningful connection.

To learn more about the campaign or join in spreading Life’s Good message, please visit radiooptimism.lg.com.

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Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater Builds on its Opening with Two New Shows

Starting September 26, Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater opened with the premiere of The Bodyguard The Musical, staged by 9 Works Theatrical. With its compelling story, music, and choreography, the production gives theatergoers a reason to experience the newly opened venue, where it continues to run until October. Praised by the press as a stellar production with an outstanding cast, it’s a show worth catching—or even revisiting—while it’s on stage.

And Rockwell shows no signs of slowing down. In just the span of three to four months, the Proscenium Theater will banner not one, but three major productions—starting with The Bodyguard and soon followed by two more grand shows. With such a robust lineup in its opening quarter, Rockwell makes clear its vision to keep the year alive with culture and performance, positioning the theater as a vibrant destination for artistry and entertainment.

With its state-of-the-art design and world-class acoustics, the Proscenium Theater provides the ideal stage for some of the Philippines’ most celebrated talents. From the grandeur of its architecture to the intimacy of its performances, the theater stands as both a cultural landmark and a home for Filipino excellence.

The Maestro Takes the Stage
On November 14 and 15, 2025, Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater will proudly present its first concert - the MaestroClass Concert Series by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

A pillar in Philippine music, Cayabyab has been part of Rockwell’s journey—gracing its events and stages through the years. Now, he makes his debut at the newly opened Proscenium Theater, leading the launch of a series where each concert promises a distinct theme and musical experience. With exciting guest performers to watch out for, this opening night sets the tone for an exhilarating season ahead. Expect a remarkable start as Cayabyab harnesses the theater’s world-class acoustics and Steinway pianos to celebrate Filipino artistry at its finest.

A Rockwell Holiday Tradition Comes Alive
For years, Rockwell Center has stood as a beacon of Christmas cheer with its iconic tree lighting, signature lights, and holiday décor that exudes warmth and creates moments of togetherness that define the season. Beyond being a place to shop and dine, Rockwell has become a true holiday destination.

This December, Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical proudly present the beloved hit musical A Christmas Carol, directed by Robbie Guevara with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens. A spectacular Broadway adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, the production tells the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly encounters on Christmas Eve. With themes of redemption, family, and generosity, the show captures the holiday spirit at the heart of Rockwell’s traditions.

Running from November to December 2025, A Christmas Carol will mark the Proscenium Theater’s third major show of the year, capping off an excitement-filled season of performances. Perfectly complementing Rockwell’s legacy of making Christmas a cherished experience for all, this timeless classic promises to bring the magic of the holidays to life on the Proscenium stage.

The Curtain Rises on What’s Next

As The Bodyguard continues to light up the stage, Rockwell looks ahead with two more landmark

productions that will define its inaugural season. With MaestroClass and A Christmas Carol

rounding out the year, the Proscenium Theater affirms its place as a new home for Filipino artistry,

global-quality productions, and shared cultural moments. More than just a venue, it stands as

Rockwell’s promise to keep the community inspired, entertained, and connected—season after

season.

Stay tuned for more information on MaestroClass and A Christmas Carol this 2025 by following

@prosceniumtheater on Instagram and Facebook. The curtain has risen, and Rockwell is just

getting started.

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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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