From Love to Liberation: LGBTQ+ Titles to Stream This Pride Month

 This month, let Lionsgate Play bring pride to your screen.

From thrilling dramas to poignant comedies, some of the most compelling stories being told today are ones that highlight the LGBTQ+ experience. This month, we've handpicked five captivating shows and films that celebrate identity, explore relationships, and showcase the power of connection. These stories are bold, raw, and unapologetic, promising to entertain, challenge, and resonate with audiences everywhere.

Grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to stream with pride. 

Killing Eve 

What happens when obsession spirals into a dangerous game of cat and mouse? Killing Eve is a deliciously twisted thriller that blurs the line between hunter and hunted. Following the story of Eve (Sandra Oh), a bored MI5 officer, and Villanelle (Jodie Comer), a flamboyant, unhinged assassin, their dynamic is nothing short of electrifying. From sudden plot twists to emotionally charged encounters, the series explores complexities of desire, loyalty, and morality. Will their intoxicating connection survive the violence surrounding them, or will it lead to their undoing? 

High Town 

Revisit the shadows of Cape Cod in High Town, a gritty crime series that dives deep into addiction, redemption, and the search for truth. We follow Jackie Quinones (Monica Raymund), a lesbian federal agent battling her own demons while investigating a murder tied to Cape Cod's opioid epidemic. With stunning cinematography and an intense emotional core, High Town serves up suspense, raw emotion, and a lead character whose flaws make her all the more human. Can Jackie crack the case while saving herself, or will the darkness consume her? 

Casual 

Love, sex, and life get messy in the brilliantly witty dramedy, Casual. This series takes a closer look at family dynamics through the unconventional relationship of Valerie (Michaela Watkins), a recently divorced therapist, her tech-savvy yet aimless brother Alex (Tommy Dewey), and her teenage daughter Laura (Tara Lynne Barr). While not strictly an LGBTQ+ storyline, the show's fearless exploration of romantic and sexual fluidity gives it a fresh edge. Whether it’s navigating modern dating or learning to support each other, Casual serves a hearty dose of both comedy and introspection. 

Emmanuelle

Sensual and groundbreaking, Emmanuelle is a cult classic that explores sexuality and self-discovery without fear or apology. Following the adventures of its titular character (played by  Noémie Merlant), the film challenges taboos and revels in the liberation of desire. It’s bold, it’s provocative, and it’s a story that paved the way for exploring themes of sexual identity with candor. For fans of artful storytelling and unapologetic passion, Emmanuelle is a must-watch. 

A Very English Scandal 

What if the truth was more shocking than fiction? Based on a true story, A Very English Scandal dives into the outrageous 1970s political scandal involving British MP Jeremy Thorpe. Hugh Grant delivers a career-defining performance as Thorpe, a man desperate to keep his relationship with Norman Scott (Ben Whishaw), a secret at all costs. This darkly humorous drama blends satire with genuine heartbreak, illuminating the devastating consequences of societal oppression. 

Celebrate diversity and connection. Watch these  captivating LGBTQ stories on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home and Smart.

Samsung Launches Smart System ACs with Built-in Wi-Fi in SEA & Oceania

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. recently announced the launch of its new system air conditioner (SAC) lineup in Southeast Asia and Oceania, marking a key step in the company’s efforts to expand its presence in the region’s fast-growing climate solutions market.

As part of this expansion, Samsung is strengthening its focus on the local B2C market with the 1-Way Cassette model, which offers advantages in both design and installation, making it suitable for residential environments in addition to commercial spaces. This means it addresses the rising consumer interest in ceiling-mounted units, which are more space efficient than conventional wall-mounted residential air conditioners. 

“Our goal is to make intelligent climate solutions more accessible across Southeast Asia and Oceania,” said Hank Choi, VP and the Head of Air Solution Business Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “By combining powerful AI features with thoughtful design, as well as expanding availability, we’re providing air conditioning systems that bring convenient cooling tailored to each customer’s environment — not only in commercial spaces, but increasingly for residential settings as well.”

Seamless Connectivity and Advanced Technology Ensure Comfort

Samsung’s latest SAC lineup includes 1Way, 4Way, 360 Cassette, duct and ceiling types to meet the diverse needs of modern consumers. The 1Way model directs airflow in a single direction, the 4Way model disperses air in four directions and the 360 Cassette delivers omnidirectional airflow in a circular pattern. 

These indoor units offer a seamless smart experience with built-in Wi-Fi, enabling direct connectivity to the SmartThings app without the need for additional kits or devices. Through SmartThings, users can remotely operate the air conditioner with a broad range of functionality — including turning it on or off, and activating modes such as WindFree™. AI Energy Mode, which reduces energy consumption depending on usage conditions, can easily be accessed through the built-in Wi-Fi. 

User can control the air conditioner with the Bixby voice assistantthrough the mobile phone, which lets the user utilize a range of functions via voice, including adjusting fan speed, changing operation modes, checking indoor temperature and humidity, and carrying out precise actions like activating WindFree™ mode at a scheduled time. 

In addition to improved usability, the product specifications have also undergone several changes. First, all models in the latest SAC lineup have been changed to use R32 refrigerant, instead of R410A refrigerant used in Samsung’s conventional SAC models. Additionally, outdoor units are equipped with Samsung’s Durafin™ Ultra technology. It features a corrosion-resistant layer to protect the heat exchanger from rusting, thus helps the outdoor units maintain the performance.

Expanded Lineup Caters to More Types of Spaces

To make SAC solutions more accessible to customers, Samsung plans to diversify its distribution strategy. Continuing its existing approach, the company will support sales through professional installers to meet a wide range of business needs. Within the lineup, the 4Way and 360 Cassette models are available in various cooling capacities, ranging from 5.2kW to 16kW, making them well-suited for different commercial environments.

At the same time, to meet the growing demand from residential customers, the 1Way model will be made available through general retail stores. Compared to the 4Way and 360 Cassette models, the 1Way model is more compact and offers a design that is better suited to home interiors. With a height of just 135mm, it requires slim ceiling clearance, allowing for easier installation in residential spaces. In Southeast Asia and Oceania last year, quantity of sales of Samsung system air conditioners grew by more than 20% year-on-year, with sales volume of the 1Way model rising by over 35% in this high-growth market. Based on the launch of 1Way models in retail stores, Samsung aims to keep the trend this year.

For more information, visit https://news.samsung.com/ph/.

RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever — A Celebration of New Beginnings

Finding a new home is never just about walls and windows—it’s about choosing where your next chapter begins. Whether you're starting fresh, growing your family, or simply looking for a space that better suits your lifestyle, the search can feel overwhelming. But if you're looking for a home that blends thoughtful design, strategic locations, and future-ready features, you may want to consider RLC Residences. Backed by Robinsons Land’s legacy of quality and innovation, RLC Residences offers homes built not just for today, but for the life you envision ahead.

Dan Carlo Torres - Marketing Director and Head of Brand Management and Operations, RLC Residences
- Ma. Czarina Theresa Lugue – Asst. Vice President and Head of Business Development
- John Richard Sotelo – Chief Marketing Officer of Robinsons Land and Senior Vice President – General Manager of RLC Residences
- Stephanie Anne Go – Vice President and Head of Business Development and Design
- Carissa Denise Lao - Vice President and Overall Head of Sales
- Karen Cesario - Senior Director, Marketing Head, and Chief Integration Officer
- Engr. Emmanuel Arce, Vice President for Project Management

RLC Residences officially opens the doors to RLC Residences Expo 2025: Hello, Home, Forever—the first developer-curated expo in the Philippines dedicated to celebrating what a home truly means: a place to begin, grow, and build a life that lasts. Happening from June 20 to 22, 2025 at Park Avenue, Bridgetowne, Pasig City, the three-day event brings together thoughtfully curated experiences, exclusive offers, and expert insights to help home seekers find not just any space, but the right one—their “forever” home.

 

The expo also marks a meaningful milestone for its parent company, Robinsons Land, as it celebrates 45 years of building quality developments and communities. The event pays tribute to this legacy—highlighting the company's continued evolution and unwavering commitment to creating spaces that improve lives.

The event commenced with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by top executives of RLC Residences, Mr. John Richard Sotelo, Chief Marketing Officer of Robinsons Land and Senior Vice President, Business Unit General Manager of RLC Residences; Ms. Stephanie Anne Go, Vice President and Head of Business Development and Design; Ms. Czarina Lugue, Assistant Vice President and Head of Business Development, Ms. Carissa Denise Lao, Vice President and Overall Head of Sales; Mr. Dan Carlo Torres, Marketing Director and Head of Brand Management and Operations; and Ms. Karen Cesario, Senior Director, Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer.

 

“RLC Residences Expo 2025 is more than a showcase of our developments—it’s a celebration of our commitment to helping people find a home they can truly grow with and come home to forever,” shared Sotelo. “Through this event, we aim to make the journey to homeownership more exciting, accessible, and deeply meaningful for every Filipino and global investor.”

True to the theme Hello, Home, Forever, the expo offers an immersive, curated experience that brings the essence of home to life. Through three experiential zones, guests are taken on a matchmaking journey—connecting them with the right property, the right sellers, and the right set of exclusive deals tailored to their needs and aspirations.

 

At the Hello Zone, guests are welcomed with a look into RLC Residences’ identity as the residential arm of Robinsons Land, tracing its 45-year legacy of building quality, purpose-driven communities.

 

In the Home Zone, attendees can explore the brand’s diverse and growing portfolio of developments—from condominiums to house-and-lots or lots-only projects—located in key urban and emerging cities nationwide.

 

Finally, the Forever Zone invites guests to envision their long-term future through partner booths and insightful real estate talks by respected names in the industry. These include representatives from real estate services companies Cushman & Wakefield and Lobien Realty Group; Content Creator, Financial Advocate and founder of Ready2AdultPH Charm De Leon; Content Creator, Founder and Mayora of Home Buddies Facebook Community Frances Cabatuando; Content Creator, Licensed Filipino Architect and Principal Architect of Delta Archi Studio Ar. Dax Augustus; and RLC Residences Brand Ambassador Heart Evangelista.

The expo is also packed with exclusive offers designed to make the homeownership journey more rewarding. Subject to applicable terms and conditions, these include the Pre-Selling 120 promo, which allows buyers to avail of the featured pre-selling property by paying the discounted price in 120 months; free SMEG oven toaster for the first 100 booked units; monthly rebates for maximum 45 months via GoTyme for expo buyers who will book the featured units; and an additional 10% discount on top of existing applicable discounts for the first 45 booked sales. On top of that, daily raffle prizes will be awarded to lucky expo visitors throughout the three-day run.

 

These exclusive expo deals are on top of ongoing RLC Residences promos, such as the Early Move In and Lease-To-Own programs for ready-for-occupancy projects—giving home seekers even more flexibility and value as they invest in their future home.

 

This year’s expo is made possible in partnership with Bridgetowne Destination Estate, IKEA, SMEG, The Westin Manila, Café Summit, GoRewards, True Value, BPI, BDO, Metrobank, PSBank, and GoTyme, whose presence adds value to the holistic homeowner experience being celebrated at the event.

 

“We named this year’s event ‘Hello, Home, Forever’ because we believe home is not just where life begins—it’s where it continues to grow,” Sotelo added. “Our goal is to create spaces that stay relevant not just today, but for every chapter of our homeowners’ lives. That’s what forever means to us.”

 

Register now for RLC Residences Expo 2025 through https://rlcresidencesexpo2025.com/registration/Xcml or by dropping by the expo at Park Avenue, Bridgetowne, Pasig City. To learn more about RLC Residences developments, visit rlcresidences.com.

Unlock Hidden Perks for Freelancers—Exclusively in the Maya App

 Let’s be real: freelancing looks like freedom, but behind the curated schedules and café-hopping gigs lies a truth every gig worker knows—one accident, one delay, one missed opportunity can throw your whole month off balance. No gigs, no income, no backup.

Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, gets it. That’s why it’s making it easier than ever for freelancers to enjoy perks usually reserved for the 9-to-5 crowd. We're talking high-yield savings, instant access to credit, seamless payments, and now, insurance coverage built for your lifestyle.

With Maya Savings, you can earn up to 15% interest per annum just by letting your money sit smart. Got an emergency? Maya Easy Credit gives you instant access to up to ₱30,000 right inside the app. And if you’re looking to spend smarter, Maya also offers credit cards built for your lifestyle: the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you up to 5% cashback at Landers Superstores, 2% on dining, and 1% on most everyday spends, while the Maya Black Credit Card lets you earn Maya Miles on every swipe—use it to shop, dine, or soon fly wherever your hustle takes you. 

And because life doesn’t always go as planned, Maya now gives you access to Singlife’s Cash for Income Loss (Accidents), a straightforward insurance plan you can get for as low as ₱1,196/year, with cash benefits of up to ₱50,000 per month for 36 months if an accident puts you out of work. No fine print, no long forms, just real financial support when you need it most. The best part? You can purchase it directly through the Maya app, along with other Singlife plans like Cash for Goals, Cash for Medical Costs, and the 3-in-1 Protection Plan.

Here’s your sign: When you purchase any of these Singlife plans in Maya until the end of June, you get ₱500 cashback. It's coverage with benefits, just the way freelancers like it.

Speaking of perks, if you’re transferring your freelance earnings from PayPal, make sure you’re doing it through Maya. With a minimum transfer of ₱7,000, you’ll get ₱250 cashback.

Whether you're recovering from a curveball or gearing up for your next big win, Maya’s got your back. From protection to perks, this is how freelance life should feel—empowered, supported, and paid in full.

Visit maya.ph/freelancer, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay in the loop.Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

From Allowance to Advice: Thank You, Dad, for Life’s Money Lessons

Growing up, Dad was always there—whether it was handing over your school allowance with a smile or quietly covering the costs of your dreams. He was your first provider, your personal “bank,” and your most consistent supporter. Now that you’re older and more financially capable, it’s your turn to return the favor.

Thanks to Dad, you know the feeling of being provided for and learned life’s important money lessons about saving and spending wisely. It's now time to return the love for Dads who took care of us by choosing the right bank for your family’s financial future. 

Thank you, Dad. It’s time to provide for your father’s needs the way he provides for yours. Open a BDO account  for him today. 

Never too early to start the saving habit 

Just like what your dad did for you, start the saving habit with the young members of your family 

with a BDO Junior Savers account. With as little as P100, you can open an account for your 

children or nephews or nieces or godchildren. The maintaining balance is affordable at just 

P100, and the account will start earning interest when the balance becomes P2,000 and higher. 

Money management made easier 

How did Dad manage all the bills and big money decisions? It helps to have a BDO Smart 

Checking account. Enjoy the convenience of a debit card plus a checkbook to easily track 

payments. Initial deposit and maintaining balance are only P15,000 and unlike other checking 

accounts, your funds can earn interest. You can also monitor your transactions online 24/7. 

With how easy, simple, and secure it is to manage money with the BDO Smart Checking 

account, your dad will love this too. 

Never out of reach even when miles away 

For the family’s future, some dads needed to leave home for brighter prospects.  Even miles 

away, the family’s ‘bank’ is never out of reach when you have the BDO Kabayan Savings 

account. Open a peso account with P100 or a dollar account with $100 and get an ATM debit 

card plus a passbook. No maintaining balance required, and your account will start earning 

interest when the balance reaches P5,000 or $200. You can also open an account for your 

loved ones, including Dad. 

Financial security for the golden Dad 

It’s your turn to give Dad the peace of mind he deserves with the BDO Prime Savers account.  

Designed for loved ones ages 60 and higher, BDO Prime Savers account is a convenient way 

to save and manage money for the golden Dad. You only need P2,000 for account opening and 

maintaining balance, plus start earning interest when the deposit reaches P5,000. Dad saved 

up for everyone else, and now it’s your turn to help him save for his golden needs. 

To learn more about the different personal savings and checking accounts available, visit your 

nearest BDO branch. Look for the Account Assist Machine to explore and get started with 

account opening. You may also inquire and open accounts online at www.bdo.com.ph.

LISTERINE® Partners with Operation Smile Philippines and Watsons to Support Cleft Care

 

For every LISTERINE® product purchased at Watsons stores, a Php10 donation will be made to fund speech therapy for children with cleft lip and cleft palate by Operation Smile 

Every three minutes, a child in Asia Pacific is born with a cleft condition, impacting their ability to eat, speak, and smile. In the Philippines, there is still a backlog of 200,000 cases of children with cleft lip and palate. Believing every child deserves a healthy smile, LISTERINE^® partnered with Operation Smile and Watsons to provide comprehensive cleft care, including surgery, speech therapy, nutrition programs, hygiene kit distributions, and education for children and their families.

Speakers for LISTERINE^® and Operation Smile Philippines’ “Healthy Smiles Start with LISTERINE ^{® “} campaign launch event held at Watson’s SM Mall of Asia Mall 7.

(L-R: Lexie Coloma, Senior Manager for Corporate PR & Sustainability, Watsons Philippines; Kate Bulan, Shopper Marketing, LISTERINE ^® Philippines; Ramon Solas, Coordinator, Operation Smile Philippines and Manila Cleft Center; MacoyDubs, LISTERINE ^® Brand Ambassador; Maxine Ibay, Speech Language Pathologist, Operation Smile Philippines; Rachelle Alcovindas, Nutritionist & Senior Officer of Comprehensive Cleft Care, Operation Smile Philippines)

LISTERINE^® strengthens its partnership with Watsons and Operation Smile this year by launching the “Healthy Smiles Start with LISTERINE^®” campaign across Asia Pacific. The initiative aims to raise awareness about cleft lip and palate, generate donations for comprehensive cleft care, and promote oral health education and nutrition, especially for children.

 

 LISTERINE®’s Booth in Watsons where shoppers can submit their pledge to help with cleft care awareness and merchandising stickers to show the P10 donation to Operation Smile for purchase of LISTERINE® bottles.

LISTERINE® and Watsons have made it easier for Filipinos to create a meaningful impact through everyday actions. From April 17 to December 31, 2025, every purchase of a LISTERINE® product at Watsons (up to the first 50,000 bottles)* contributes to funding speech therapy sessions for children with cleft lip and palate in partnership with Operation Smile Philippines—transforming daily oral care into a compassionate cause. Last April, LISTERINE® urged Watsons shoppers to pledge their support by spreading awareness and inspiring others to donate, volunteer, or refer cleft patients.

"With Watsons’ strong presence across the country, we're proud to help LISTERINE^® bring this movement to life and expand its reach to communities nationwide,” says Lexie Coloma, Senior Manager for Corporate PR and Sustainability, Watsons Philippines.

As part of Kenvue, LISTERINE® is dedicated to promoting complete oral care through brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash in various oral health talks. "At LISTERINE®, we believe a healthy mouth is more than hygiene — it’s a gateway to confidence, dignity, and opportunity," says Kate Bulan, Shopper Marketing, LISTERINE® Philippines. "Through the Healthy Smiles campaign and our partnership with Operation Smile Philippines, we aim to deliver healthier smiles and brighter futures for children with cleft lip and palate. This initiative invites everyone to join a movement that transforms lives, one smile at a time."

Ramon Solas, an Operation Smile Philippines beneficiary turned employee, sharing his personal life-changing experience and how this fuelled him to pay it forward.

 

Ramon Solas is living proof and a powerful example of how a single act of compassion can change the course of a life—and inspire a powerful ripple effect. Once a child born with a cleft condition, Ramon faced adversities like bullying and lack of self-confidence. After receiving life-changing surgery through Operation Smile, he gained a renewed sense of self confidence, even becoming an officer of the student council. Today, he’s come full circle, serving as a dedicated coordinator with Operation Smile Philippines. With every child he helps, Ramon is not just giving back—he’s passing on the same hope, healing, and second chance that once transformed his own life.

Apart from Ramon, thousands of children across Asia—including Chutima (Paeng), Worapruch (Lak), Supanat (Folksong), and Wang Nianyi—have undergone life-changing transformations through Operation Smile. From early surgeries and orthodontic treatment to ongoing speech therapy and dental care, these children and their families have gained not only healthier smiles, but also brighter futures filled with renewed hope, confidence, and opportunities thanks to accessible cleft care. Their stories highlight the transformative power of comprehensive cleft care. "Children with cleft conditions face challenges like difficulty eating, speaking, and social stigma. Our partnership with LISTERINE® and Watsons enables us to reach more children and create lasting change for families and communities," says Rachelle Alovindas, Nutritionist & Senior Officer of Comprehensive Cleft Care at Operation Smile Philippines.

Through the efforts of LISTERINE®, Operation Smile, and Watsons, every purchase becomes more than a step towards one’s oral health—it becomes part of a life-changing journey of a child in need. Each restored smile represents renewed confidence, fulfilled hope, and a transformed community. Together, they are turning everyday routines into extraordinary acts of kindness. Be the reason someone smiles today—and for a lifetime.

 

*Per DOH-FDA CCHUHSRR Permit No. 0305 s. 2025.