LG awards the Cinemalaya 21 winners with the next generation of LG OLED AI TVs that bring every story to life

Next-generation Filipino filmmakers at Cinemalaya 21 receive LG OLED evo AI TVs

LG Electronics Philippines proudly joins hands with Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival as Major Sponsor, further solidifying its commitment to empowering Filipino artistry and innovation. This year’s theme, “Cinemalaya 21: Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos”, continues the festival’s legacy of celebrating Filipino independent films and supporting new filmmakers, keeping Philippine cinema vibrant with stories that reflect and capture real Filipino life. Since its launch in 2005, Cinemalaya has become one of the country’s most respected film festivals, providing a platform for filmmakers to share inspiring and meaningful stories. 

This partnership reflects LG’s commitment to empowering creativity and the arts through technology, continuously supporting film, design, and visual storytelling that celebrate human imagination. In recognition of outstanding Filipino filmmaking, LG Electronics Philippines awarded LG OLED evo AI C5 TVs to this year’s winning filmmakers.  

Best Film (Full Length) – “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao

The winners of Cinemalaya 21 reflected diversity of Filipino cinema, with 10 full-length features and 10 short films competing in this year’s festival, each offering a unique perspective and voice. The most celebrated film, Best Film (Full Length), was awarded to “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao, a documentary that follows Agnes, Amanda, and Randy, three land rights advocates from Cagayan Valley whose stories embody resilience, hope, and purpose. Amid their disrupted ties to home, the film celebrates their enduring spirit and unyielding will to protect and uplift their communities. 

Best Film (Short Film) – “The Next 24 Hours” by Carl Joseph Papa

Best Film (Short Film) went to “The Next 24 Hours” by Carl Joseph Papa. An animated film that follows Sheila, a young woman whose strength and spirit are tested over the course of a single day. Through expressive visuals and heartfelt storytelling, the film offers an intimate look at the challenges of facing unwanted attention and asserting her independence in a society that often overlooks women’s experiences, capturing courage, resilience, and the quiet determination to stay strong.

NETPAC Award (Full Length) – “Republika ng Pipolipinas” by Renei Dimla

The NETPAC Award at Cinemalaya, presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema, recognizes films with outstanding artistic merit that contribute to the growth and visibility of Asian cinema. The NETPAC Award (Full Length) went to “Republika ng Pipolipinas” by Renei Dimla, a striking mockumentary centered on Cora Vitug, a farmer who establishes her own community built on empowerment and self-determination. The story highlights that what truly makes a nation great is not its land or history, but the courage of its people, those who continue to dream, create, and stand for change. 

NETPAC Award (Short Film) – “Hasang” by Daniel de la Cruz

The NETPAC Award (Short Film) went to “Hasang” by Daniel de la Cruz, a tender and poetic story that blends myth and memory through the eyes of Boni, a young boy who witnesses his grandmother’s quiet transformation. The film beautifully captures a journey of letting go and embracing mystical truths, revealing the deep interconnectedness of all beings in a world slowly changing around them. 

LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Black technology

With the LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Black technology, every shadow and contrast is rendered with UL-verified true blacks, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the depth and emotion in dramatic scenes. The a11 AI Processor 4K Gen2 ensures next-level visual detail, upscaling every frame and recognizing faces to enhance expressions and depth, bringing characters and stories to life exactly as the filmmaker intended.  

LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Color technology

Brightness Booster Ultimate adds clarity even in bright environments, while Perfect Color guarantees 100% Color Volume and Color Fidelity, that every hue, from subtle tones to vivid landscapes, is displayed with accuracy and vibrancy. AI Picture Pro takes it further by analyzing each frame to enhance resolution, brightness, depth, and clarity, making even the smallest details stand out, ideal for filmmakers who want to see every element of their work in full detail. Completing the experience, the AI Magic Remote allows easy control with gestures or voice commands, letting users navigate effortlessly through film libraries, review footage, or explore creative content with ease. 

LG OLED evo AI TV

The films featured in this year’s Cinemalaya Festival are a powerful showcase of the craft, passion, and vision of Filipino filmmakers. When paired with the right technology, these masterpieces come alive with emotion and precision. Every frame, expression, and subtle detail of light and shadow captures the story’s intent and brings out the depth and beauty within it. Life’s Good when every story captivates and leaves a lasting impact. 

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/tv-soundbars/ and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines. 

 

The Heart of the Holidays: A Mom’s Way to Make Christmas Shine with SM Home

There’s something about the ber months that brings out my inner child—and inner decorator. Once I hear the first few notes of “Christmas in Our Hearts,” I know it’s time to bring out the boxes, untangle the lights, and start turning our house into a holiday wonderland.

But this year felt extra special because I had the chance to attend the SM Home Christmas Workshop, where I learned a few clever tricks from the pros on how to make our home festive without losing that cozy, lived-in feel. And let me tell you, it completely changed how I look at decorating for the holidays.

Learning the Art of Layering

At the workshop, one of the first lessons that stuck with me was to play with height and layers. I used to focus all my energy on the tree—but now, I see every corner as a blank canvas.

The stylists showed how stacking different elements—like tall candlesticks, medium-sized nutcrackers, and small glittery ornaments—creates visual rhythm. It’s a bit like motherhood, really: balance is everything.

Mixing Materials for Warmth

Another tip I loved: mix textures and materials. The designer encouraged us to combine shiny with matte, rough with smooth—like pairing gold ornaments with woven rattan or wooden accents.

It reminded me that Christmas doesn’t have to be all glitter and gloss. A little bit of rustic warmth goes a long way. At SM Home, I spotted the Golden Elegance collection—warm metallics, glass baubles, and soft fabrics—and it felt like the perfect balance between glam and homey.

Bringing the Magic Home

Leaving the SM Home Christmas Workshop, I felt inspired—not just to decorate, but to create moments. It reminded me that what makes our homes magical isn’t just the sparkle of lights, but the laughter, the smells of food, and the love that fills every corner.

This year, I’ll be mixing textures, layering heights, and maybe even letting the kids help with their own little Beary Merrycorner (SM Home has the cutest pieces for that, by the way!).

So if you’re still figuring out your holiday theme—whether it’s Golden Elegance, Crystal Wonderland, or Whimsical Holidays—drop by SM Home. Trust me, you’ll walk out not just with décor, but with ideas that make your home glow inside and out.

Because Christmas isn’t just about decorating your house—it’s about bringing the magic home. 🎅

Cat Person Is the Dating Horror You Didn’t See Coming

 Being ghosted is the least of anyone’s problems in Cat Person, a psychological thriller that peels back the dangers of modern romance. What begins as a flirty spark, a few witty texts, and  a seemingly sweet connection spirals into something darker, reminding us how easily desire can blur into fear.

Margot, a college sophomore working at a movie theater, meets Robert, an older man who frequents her counter. What starts as a harmless meet-cute turns into constant messaging and mounting tension. At first, their chemistry feels exciting, even promising. But as Robert’s behavior grows inconsistent and his stories start to contradict, Margot begins to notice the red flags: the strange messages, the possessive tone, the fact that he might’ve lied about owning cats at all. Soon, her imagination races ahead ofher reality, feeding her doubts until she’s trapped between attraction, discomfort, and dread.

Emilia Jones delivers a gripping performance as Margot—vulnerable, confused, and painfully relatable to anyone who’s ever questioned their own instincts. Opposite her, Nicholas Braun plays Robert with unnerving precision: part charm, part menace, and just familiar enough to make the danger feel real. Together, they pull you into the disquieting headspace of a relationship that’s equal parts fantasy and threat.

 

Directed by Susanna Fogel and written by Michelle Ashford, Cat Person first premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival and is an adaptation of Kristen Roupenian’s viral 2017 short story from The New Yorker. Rather than offering tidy answers about dating and consent, the film thrives in the gray area—the awkward texts, the overthinking, the quiet panic of realizing you might not be safe but not knowing how to say no. It’s an uncomfortable mirror to modern dating, one that asks: Do I actually like this person, or do I just like that they like me?

 

In an interview, Fogel captured the heart of that discomfort: “It’s neither a great love story where no one has to ask because everybody just reads each other’s minds, nor are most encounters a clear-cut case of somebody drawing a boundary verbally and the other person overriding it in a problematic and illegal way. Most encounters are in between. That ambiguity is the kind of thing that people are more hesitant to acknowledge.”

 

Cat Person doesn’t aim to solve the dating dilemma—it simply holds a mirror up to it, showing us what happens when politeness, power, and fear collide in the age of connection.

 

If you think you know modern romance, think again. Cat Person starts streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play starting October17 via PLDT Home, Smart and Cignal.

Maya launches Its New Pink Glitter Edition Visa Card

Maya, the #1 Fintech Ecosystem and #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, just dropped its newest Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card, and everyone is raving about it. This isn’t just another card in your wallet, it’s the card you’ll want to carry, use, and show off every single day.

 

All glitter. No filler.

The Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card delivers on all fronts: design, function, and benefits. Its matte glitter finish gives it a premium, polished look while ensuring it slides smoothly into ATMs and payment terminals for easy, worry-free transactions.

 

It’s the perfect mix of style and smarts: cool enough to match your everyday aesthetic, practical enough to keep your finances on track, and designed so that even the little things including your daily coffee run, a grocery haul, or weekend shopping spree, actually work for you.

And it’s not just about looks. This globally accepted debit card lets you pay, shop, and withdraw anywhere Visa is accepted, all while helping your money grow with up to 15% p.a. interest on Maya Savings.

 

Your Ticket to Once-in-a-Lifetime Moments

Using the Pink Glitter Maya Visa Card doesn’t just reward you financially, it could literally take you places. From October 1 to November 11, every swipe with this glittery card could take you straight to the BLACKPINK [DEADLINE] World Tour in Manila. Thanks to Visa and Maya, your everyday spending might just score you VIP fan packages or even daily ticket giveaways! 

 

The Pink Glitter Maya Visa Card isn’t your only way in. You can also use:

·       The Maya Black Visa Credit Card —   a sleek, numberless card that gives you instant miles and global airport lounge access for no annual fees. Perfect for travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts[1].

·       The Maya Visa Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card — your cashback card for everyday purchases. Earn 5% at Landers, 2% on dining, and 1% on everything else every time you swipe.

 

Here’s how to join:

1.      Open the Maya app and go to the Tickets tab.

2.      Tap “Join today’s giveaway” to start earning entries for the monthly and daily giveaways.

3.      Get and/or use your Maya Visa Landers Credit Card, Maya Black Visa Credit Card, or Maya Visa Debit Card to earn raffle entries

 

A minimum spend of ₱500 in a single transaction qualifies you for one daily entry.

 

With Maya, your everyday doesn’t have to stay ordinary. It’s your go-to that makes spending smarter, saving easier, and moments more rewarding, whether you’re chasing miles, cashback, or the concert of your dreams.

 

Stay updated by visiting maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. 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.

 

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[1] Monthly inactivity fees are waived with at least 1 Maya Black transaction each month.

DTI and Lalamove Team Up for PadaLala 101 to Help Filipinos Avoid Delivery Mishaps This Holiday Season

Delivery season is picking up early this year. Thousands of packages are already moving across the Philippines daily as online shoppers and small businesses prepare for the holidays. Most reach their destinations safely and on time, though many more face delays or mix-ups — and no one wants to spend the weeks and days leading up to Christmas tracking a lost parcel.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), online transactions, including Marketplace selling, digital payments, and food or parcel deliveries, remain the top source of consumer complaints in recent years, reflecting the country’s fast-growing digital economy.

 

Nearly one million new business names were registered with the agency in 2023, more than 18,000 of them under “Retail Sale via Internet.” The boom continued as Philippine e-commerce hit USD 28 billion in 2024, based on Payments CMI data.

 

 

More buying and shipping also mean more chances for mistakes or scams. To help consumers stay alert, Lalamove, the leading on-demand delivery platform, has launched PadaLala 101, a safety-awareness campaign featuring a short video series on safer, smarter deliveries, developed in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The campaign runs on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, targeting both customers and partner drivers.

 

One clip shows what happens when a wrong location pin sends a partner driver in circles. Another reminds users to verify a partner driver’s name and plate number before handing over a package — a simple step that can prevent fake bookings. A third episode explains why matching a parcel with the right vehicle matters, since overloading can damage goods or endanger riders.

 

Each video features a representative from the agency validating the advice. The tone is light but the message is practical: safe deliveries start with small, consistent habits.

 

“Consumer education is key to a safer and more e-commerce environment,” said Atty. Eryl Royce R. Nagtalon, Officer-in-Charge of the DTI E-Commerce Bureau. “We commend Lalamove for taking the lead in promoting responsible delivery practices and working closely with DTI to educate and protect the public. This partnership with Lalamove plays a vital role in keeping the growing digital marketplace safe and reliable for everyone. These kinds of initiatives are aligned with the core objective of Republic Act No. 11967 or the Internet Transactions Act of 2023 to build trust on e-commerce.”

 

Lalamove echoed the agency’s call for shared responsibility between customers and couriers.

 

“Deliveries carry people’s livelihood and trust,” said Djon Nacario, Managing Director of Lalamove Philippines. “PadaLala 101 is about making safety second nature for everyone who books or receives a delivery. This is just one of the ways that we’re educating Lalamove users; we’re also continuously working on various ways to ensure that consumers and drivers are safe and protected from scams and mishaps.”

 

PadaLala 101 is timed for the holiday rush, when e-commerce traffic peaks and couriers work around the clock. Each episode runs for only a few minutes but distills basic precautions that can prevent costly errors, from double-checking delivery details to choosing the right vehicle size.

 

Before hitting “Book Now,” the campaign reminds users to pause for a quick check: confirm the address, review the contact number, and verify the driver’s information. A few seconds of care can make the busiest months less stressful for everyone on the road.

 

CHAGEE Brews Bigger with Its 4th and Largest Store Opening at Glorietta 4 This October!

CHAGEE brings back its popular Tear and Win promo from October 17 to 19, plus limited-edition Bes-tea Plushies available for pre-order until October 24!

The CHAGEE craze is far from over! Following its successful triple-store launch in August, CHAGEE is bringing its authentic, high-quality milk teas straight into the heart of Makati. 

The popular milk tea brand opens its fourth and biggest store in Manila at Glorietta 4 on October 17, offering more space for milk tea lovers to create moments of connection. In celebration of the unveiling of the 200-sqm store, CHAGEE is also bringing back its Tear and Win promo. From October 17 to 19 only, customers can get a free upgrade to a Tear and Win cup for every purchase of any large CHAGEE fresh milk tea. Simply peel off the perforated section of the cup to reveal instant prizes—from premium gadgets and beauty stylers, to branded merchandise and designer perfumes. Customers can also purchase a large BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Tea and a large Da Hong Pao Milk Tea, or two of the same drink, for only PHP 165. CHAGEE’s Glorietta 4 store marks another milestone for the brand in less than three months after its highly talked-about launch in the Philippines. In August this year, it sold more than 23,000 cups during its grand opening weekend alone.

The cuddly ‘Bes-tea Plushies’ are back!

Earlier this month, CHAGEE’s limited-edition ‘Bes-tea Plushies’ collection, the latest addition to its curated lineup of must-have and aesthetically designed merch, sold out days after its launch on October 3. Due to popular demand, CHAGEE is now accepting pre-orders for its popular plushies until October 24 at its stores in SM North EDSA, Robinsons Galleria, and Venice Grand Canal Mall, giving fans another chance to snag their own Bes-tea collectible. CHAGEE’s Glorietta 4 store will accept pre-orders from October 20-24 only. Customers must keep their receipts and return to the same CHAGEE store to claim their cuddly bes-tea from October 27 to December 27.

CHAGEE is set to open more stores across Metro Manila this year! For updates and official announcements, follow CHAGEE Philippines on Facebook and @chagee.ph on Instagram. 

mWell and DICT Sign MOU to Advance Universal Healthcare — Bringing Paperless Medical Records to Your Fingertips

Imagine having all your medical information right at your fingertips — no more folders, no more waiting in line for printouts. With the mWell app, you can now access your medical records, lab results, prescriptions, procedures, and even your doctor’s schedule all in one place. It’s healthcare made simple, smart, and sustainable. Whether you’re tracking your medications or checking your lab results from a recent test, everything’s stored securely and paperlessly within the app. Managing your health has never been this easy — just a few taps, and you’re in full control of your wellness journey.

Gabby Concepcion, mWell Wellness Champion; Chaye Cabal-Revilla, mWell President and CEO and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer; Manny V. Pangilinan, mWell Chairman and

Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chairman, President, and CEO; Henry Aguda, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary; Migui Planas, DICT Assistant Secretary; Joy Barcoma, Miss Philippines Earth 2025; and Bently D. Roxas, Department of Health Director IV, Knowledge Management and Information Technology Services, during the mWell x DICT partnership signing at the mWell Primary Care Facility.

Changing the landscape of Philippine healthcare, mWell, the digital healthcare arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), has partnered with the Department of Information and

Communications Technology (DICT) to explore the integration of healthcare services into the government’s eGov PH App. This landmark collaboration aims to create the country's first national digital health integration within a government platform, enabling millions of Filipinos to gain direct access to doctors, health records, and essential services.

“This partnership will be foundational in providing every Filipino their right to quality care,” said mWell

Chairman and MPIC Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. “Healthcare is always among the top concerns of our countrymen. Together with government, we will close the healthcare gap and uplift quality of life in every community, and across every generation.”

DICT Secretary Henry R. Aguda emphasized the significance of the collaboration.

 “This partnership with mWell is a critical step in building a digitally connected nation where every Filipino has access to quality healthcare. By integrating these essential services into our eGov PH App, we are not only advancing the government's Digital Philippines agenda but also making good on our promise to bring health services directly to our people, no matter where they are.”

Chaye Cabal-Revilla, President and CEO of mWell and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC, underscored the transformational opportunity. 

“The future of healthcare is now. This partnership brings together the country’s greatest minds and the biggest hearts committed to make the Philippines a global leader in digital health. By working closely with the DICT, we are creating a digital healthcare network where government, providers, and patients are united by technology and compassion. It means a mother in a remote barangay can consult a doctor without leaving her community. It means young people can seek

mind health support with dignity and privacy. It means families can keep their medical history safe for a lifetime. This is the promise of digital health that provides accessible, affordable, and inclusive care for all.”

The ceremonial signing was held at the mWell Primary Care Facility (PCF), the country’s first AI-powered clinic and mWell’s experience center for digital health. Powered by mWell’s Clinic Management Systemn(CMS), PCF integrates mWell’s technologies, including the Health ID and AI-powered Electronic Medical Records (EMR). 

Aside from serving patients, PCF demonstrates how mWell’s solutions can empower both

public and private health providers in support of Universal Health Care.

Supporting a Digital Philippines and Universal Health Coverage

The recent launch of the Philippines’ first digital Health ID through mWell goes beyond digitization. It establishes interoperable healthcare infrastructure that supports Universal Health Care goals and alignsbwith the government’s Digital Philippines agenda, including health programs such as the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP).

As part of the partnership, mWell and DICT are working towards integrating the mWell Health ID into the eGov PH App, which already has 18 million registered users. This planned integration positions mWell asbthe health engine behind DICT’s eGov platform, advancing a shared mission to make quality healthcarebaccessible to all Filipinos.

Through this collaboration, eGov PH users are envisioned to gain access to thousands of primary carebdoctors and specialists as well as mind health experts. mWell’s digital Health ID secures lifetime personal health records for individuals and families, while one-tap booking makes consultations more convenient.

Gerb Inajada, Chief Technology Officer of mWell said, “Our goal is simple: to remove the friction between patients, doctors, and government by making healthcare services seamlessly accessible through a single, trusted digital gateway. This integration ensures that every Filipino, wherever they are, can have access to care without borders.

(L-R) Ms. Chaye Cabal- Revilla, President and CEO of mWell and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC, Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan, mWell Chairman and MPIC Chairman, President and CEO, Mr. Henry Aguda, Secretary, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and Mr. Luis Miguel Planas, Assistant Secretary, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

Building a sustainable and future-ready healthcare ecosystem

With the acquisition and integration of KonsultaMD, mWell has become the Philippines’ leading digital

health platform. Through the mWell app, patients can consult virtually with doctors 24/7, receive e-

prescriptions and lab referrals, and share their records with healthcare providers as needed.

Since the beginning of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos’ Lab for All initiative, mWell has been providing telemedicine services to various communities nationwide. At the same time, mWell has been working with DICT to reach geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, deploying the mWell OnTheGo Clinic-In-A-

Bag to remote barangays, bedridden patients, 

Indigenous Peoples, and soldiers in conflict zones.

To complement these services, mWell introduced drone medicine delivery to isolated islands and launched BangkaHealth, which brings telemedicine to houses on stilts in Sulu via small boats. The collaboration aims to bring healthcare services to more communities and build a truly connected nation, ensuring that digital health reaches an even broader population.

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to working towards the achievement of the UN’s

Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

Download the mWell app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Follow mWell on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.