EastWest Bank Earns Three Top Honors at 2026 Digital CX Awards for ESTA

Industry Recognition Reinforces the Bank’s Commitment to Advancing AI and Digital Solutions for Enhanced Customer Service 

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) has been honored with three prestigious awards at the 2026 Digital CX Awards, taking home titles for Best Use of AI for Customer Experience, Best Use of Generative AI for Customer Experience, and Outstanding Chatbot Customer Experience — all awarded at the national level in the Philippines. These accolades celebrate ESTA (EastWest System Tech Assistant), the Bank’s advanced AI-powered platform that is transforming the way Filipinos interact with and access banking services. 

The recognition underscores EastWest’s ongoing commitment to investing in practical, customer-centric technology designed to make banking simpler, more efficient, and more accessible. ESTA combines automation, generative artificial intelligence, and conversational capabilities to deliver a seamless and intuitive banking experience for every user. 

What began as an innovative chat-based solution for customer support has evolved into a comprehensive digital engagement platform. Today, customers can use ESTA to apply for credit cards, auto loans, and personal loans, explore insurance products, and participate in auto bidding — all accessible through Facebook Messenger and the Bank’s other digital channels. For many clients, ESTA serves as the first point of contact with EastWest, functioning both as a valuable service tool and an effective channel for acquiring new relationships.

What sets ESTA apart is its ability to deliver personalized and meaningful interactions. Every conversation helps the platform gain deeper insight into individual customer needs, ensuring future engagements are always relevant and timely. Common inquiries are resolved instantly, cutting down wait times and improving overall convenience. When a request requires the support of a human representative, ESTA seamlessly transfers the conversation while sharing all necessary context — eliminating the need for customers to repeat information and ensuring a smooth transition.

ESTA is a key component of EastWest’s broader phygital strategy, where digital tools and human support work hand in hand to give customers greater flexibility and choice in how they bank. Whether engaging through online channels or visiting one of the Bank’s branches nationwide, the core objective remains consistent: to make banking easier, more responsive, and perfectly aligned with the needs of every customer.

“More and more people are growing comfortable using artificial intelligence for their daily needs, and banking is no exception,” said Jerry G. Ngo, Chief Executive Officer of EastWest. “Our mission is to make banking simpler for the communities we serve. The insights we gather help us understand our customers better, enabling us to provide service that is truly tailored to them. Our vision is clear: when Filipinos think of connecting with their bank through conversation, we want EastWest to be the first name that comes to mind.”

EastWest continues to expand and improve ESTA, with upcoming features including proactive notifications, expanded transaction support, and an even wider range of product offerings. Every development is guided by one core goal: to deliver a banking experience that is easy to use, intuitive, and available whenever customers need it.

Start your conversation with ESTA today through EastWest’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/EastWestBanker. To learn more about the full range of products and services, visit www.eastwestbanker.com. The Bank reminds all customers to conduct transactions only through authorized and official EastWest channels.

The 2026 Digital CX Awards recognize outstanding innovation in digital customer experience across the Asia-Pacific banking industry.

Shop Smart and Save Big at SM City Valenzuela’s 3-Day Sale

Before the back-to-school rush officially kicks off, SM City Valenzuela invites all shoppers to enjoy incredible savings at its much-awaited 3-Day Sale happening on May 29, 30, and 31. Whether you are looking to stock up on classroom essentials, refresh your wardrobe, or upgrade your everyday items, this event is the perfect opportunity to fill your carts with quality finds—all while staying well within budget.

Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 70% off on a wide variety of products, ranging from fashion apparel, home essentials, and beauty must-haves to daily necessities and the latest tech gadgets. Whether you are preparing for the upcoming school season or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved shopping spree, this three-day event brings the best deals together in one convenient location.

Look forward to exciting price drops at favorite destinations including The SM Store, SM Hypermarket, Watsons, Ace Hardware, Miniso, and SM Appliance Center, alongside over 100 participating stores across the mall.

But the savings and excitement do not end there! As a special highlight of the sale, every single or accumulated purchase of ₱1,000 automatically earns you a raffle entry. Stand a chance to drive home a brand-new Suzuki Dzire GL CVT Hybrid—the perfect bonus to your shopping haul.

With the busy school season fast approaching, this is your best chance to get a head start on your shopping list. Beat the crowds and secure all your school supplies, household needs, and lifestyle upgrades early, hassle-free.

For real-time updates, exclusive announcements, and event highlights, follow us at https://www.facebook.com/smcityvalenzuela and be the first to know about more surprises in store.

Head over to your favorite SM City Valenzuela and experience a shopping celebration taken to the MAX! See you there!

LG Electronics Brings Korea’s Housewarming Tradition to Southeast Asia

LG Introduces K-Lifestyle Experience Across Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia — Showcasing How Affectionate Intelligence Enhances Daily Life

LG Electronics (LG) has launched “Housewarming by LG,” a regional experiential marketing campaign that brings Korea’s beloved housewarming culture to consumers across Southeast Asia. The initiative kicked off on May 19 at Another Saigon, a premium experience venue in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and will expand sequentially to Thailand on June 4 and Indonesia on June 23. Each stop features immersive lifestyle spaces designed to showcase LG home appliances within authentic, real-world living environments. 

“Southeast Asia is home to one of the world’s most engaged and vibrant communities for Korean culture,” said Jaeseung Kim, Regional CEO of LG Electronics Asia Pacific. “With Housewarming by LG, we are opening our doors to local consumers, demonstrating firsthand how LG’s Affectionate Intelligence is engineered to truly understand and complement the way people live today.” 

Reimagining Korean Lifestyle Trends as a Consumer Experience

Rooted in Korea’s traditional housewarming culture — where guests are welcomed into a home to share in the warmth and rhythm of daily life — this campaign transforms a popular cultural tradition into an interactive brand experience.

Moving beyond the conventional showroom format, LG has created curated residential zones that mirror real-life living spaces. Visitors are invited to explore and interact with products in settings ranging from entryways and kitchens to living rooms and dressing rooms, discovering how LG appliances deliver greater convenience, comfort, and meaningful value to everyday routines.

In the kitchen, attendees can prepare authentic Korean-style drinks and dishes using LG refrigerators equipped with advanced dispensing systems, including Craft Ice™, cubed ice, and crushed ice options. In the living area, LG air conditioners and air purifiers work in harmony to maintain ideal temperature, humidity, and air quality, while the LG StanbyME™ 2 offers a versatile platform for home workouts and leisure. In the dressing zone, the LG WashTower™ leverages AI technology to analyze fabric type, load weight, and soil level for optimized washing and drying performance. Visitors can also test the LG Styler®, designed to simplify clothing care and personal styling with premium results.

Two Distinct Lifestyles, One Shared Vision: Affectionate Intelligence

A core highlight of the campaign is its recognition that there is no single definition of a perfect lifestyle. To reflect this diversity, LG has partnered with prominent K-pop and entertainment personalities MINHO (of SHINee) and Shin Ye Eun, each representing a distinct lifestyle concept that illustrates how LG technology adapts to different ways of living, resting, and moving through life.

- MINHO’s Space embodies an active, social lifestyle centered on movement and meaningful connections. Drawing inspiration from MINHO’s own dynamic lifestyle and Korea’s rising running culture, this space showcases products tailored for energetic, on-the-go individuals who value health and shared experiences.

- Ye Eun’s Space reflects a more personal, aesthetics-driven lifestyle shaped by the principles of K-Wellness and quiet individuality. Aligned with Shin Ye Eun’s refined sensibilities, this environment resonates deeply with millennial and Gen Z consumers across Southeast Asia who embrace Korean cultural trends and prioritize mindful living.

While the two spaces differ in character and design, they share a unified message: LG’s Affectionate Intelligence is built to understand and adapt to the diverse rhythms of modern life, helping every individual live better, every day. 

K-Lifestyle as a Bridge for Cultural Connection

Housewarming by LG meets consumers where they are — by leaning into the K-lifestyle sensibilities that audiences across Southeast Asia already know, enjoy, and aspire to. By embedding its technology within familiar cultural narratives, LG creates experiences that feel personal, intuitive, and deeply relevant.

To ensure authentic cultural representation, LG collaborated with SACHUNKI of MACHO, a creative studio renowned for spatial storytelling rooted in Korean culture. This partnership guarantees that every detail of the physical environments carries genuine cultural credibility, seamlessly translating K-lifestyle aesthetics into a cohesive and immersive brand experience.

Extending the Experience Beyond Physical Venues 

LG will extend the campaign’s reach through digital channels, releasing exclusive behind-the-scenes content, highlight reels, and feature stories from each pop-up location via its YouTube channel and social media platforms. This digital extension ensures that the Housewarming by LG experience reaches even those unable to attend in person, amplifying its impact across the entire Southeast Asian region. 

Strengthening Commitment to Cultural Storytelling

This initiative builds on LG’s growing focus on connecting with global audiences through culturally meaningful experiences. Earlier this year, at LG InnoFest 2026 APAC in Busan — attended by partners and media from over 20 Asia-Pacific markets — LG earned wide acclaim for an exhibition designed around iconic spaces from popular K-dramas. The event demonstrated how Korean cultural storytelling serves as a powerful medium to communicate LG’s innovation and vision for better living.

Pangasinan, Naki-isa sa Walang Sawang Saya, Laro at Papremyo Hatid ng BRGY S2S at Converge

Muling naghatid ng saya, palaro, at papremyo ang Surf2Sawa by Converge sa pagdating ng BRGY S2S sa Brgy. Palaris, San Carlos City, Pangasinan noong May 9, 2026.

Ang naturang aktibidad ay kasunod ng matatagumpay na paglulunsad ng BRGY S2S sa Daet, na nagpapatibay sa lumalawak na presensya ng Surf2Sawa sa mga komunidad. Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, muling pinatunayan ng kumpanya ang pangako nitong magbigay ng maasahan, de-kalidad at abot-kayang internet para sa bawat pamilyang Filipino. 

Binuksan ang pagdiriwang sa pamamagitan ng Zumba2Sawa, kung saan masayang naki-indak sa umaga ang mga residente. Kasunod nito, lalo pang uminit ang enerhiya sa engrandeng Parade at Recorida na nagmula sa Arenas Complex at dumaan sa Converge Business Center sa kahabaan ng G.H. Del Pilar St. Ang parada ay nag-ikot din sa Malong St. at Burgos St. bago muling bumalik sa Arenas Complex.

Nagpatuloy ang saya sa venue sa pamamagitan ng iba't ibang aktibidad at sa high-energy performance na naging signature na ng bawat BRGY S2S event na bumuhay sa diwa at nagbigay-aliw sa mga residente ng Brgy. Palaris.

Isa sa mga pinaka-inabangang bahagi ng programa ang Sugod Barangay. Sa kanilang kulitan at pakikipagkwentuhan sa mga residente, naging mas malapit at mas masaya ang karanasan ng komunidad habang binigyan-diin naman ang kahalagahan ng pagiging konektado sa araw-araw na buhay.

Bukod sa mga pasabog na pagtatanghal, naging highlight din ang mga interactive games at raffle draws kung saan namahagi ng kaabang-abang na papremyo. Itinampok din ang mga contest gaya ng MamaMove, Sing2Sawa at Mama Mong Kabugera, na nagpakitang-gilas sa talento at galing ng mga residente. Sa bawat segment ng programa, mas napayabong ang diwa ng bayanihan at pagkakaisa, na nagpapatunay sa malalim na koneksyon ng Surf2Sawa sa bawat komunidad na pinaglilingkuran nito.

Sa pamamagitan ng BRGY S2S, patuloy na inilalapit ng Surf2Sawa ang abot-kayang prepaid fiber internet sa mas maraming Filipino. Ang Surf2Sawa ay ang mura, unlimited, at walang kontratang internet service na may bilis na hanggang 50 Mbps sa halagang ₱4 kada araw bawat user (hanggang anim na device.) Available rin ang ExtraBoost add-ons na nagbibigay ng hanggang 100 Mbps na bilis para sa mas demanding na online activities tulad ng streaming, online classes, at work-from-home setups.

Ayon kay Conrado “Kap Dhing” Pascual, Vice President at Business Unit Head ng Converge, “Sa pamamagitan ng BRGY S2S, patuloy naming inilalapit ang Surf2Sawa sa mas maraming komunidad upang mabigyan ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino ng access sa mabilis, maaasahan, at abot-kayang internet. Mahalaga ang koneksyon hindi lamang para sa entertainment, kundi bilang tulay sa edukasyon, kabuhayan, at pang-araw-araw na komunikasyon.”

Samantala, binigyang-diin naman ni Orange Ramirez, Vice President at Head of Brand & Marketing ng Converge, ang layunin ng inisyatiba na gawing mas inclusive ang digital access sa bansa. “Ang BRGY S2S ay repleksyon ng commitment ng Converge na walang komunidad ang mapag-iiwanan sa digital age. Sa bawat barangay na aming pinupuntahan, mas pinapalapit namin ang de-kalidad na fixed-fiber connectivity sa mga pamilyang nangangailangan nito, habang sabay naming dinadala ang saya at engagement na tunay na para sa komunidad.”

Sa matagumpay na pagdating nito sa San Carlos, muling pinatunayan ng BRGY S2S na higit pa sa saya at papremyo ang hatid nito sa bawat komunidad. Isa itong pagdiriwang ng koneksyon at pagkakaisa, kung saan mas nailalapit ng Surf2Sawa by Converge ang mabilis, maaasahan, at abot-kayang internet sa mas maraming pamilyang Filipino para magbukas ng mas maraming oportunidad para sa araw-araw na buhay.

Para sa mas kumpletong impormasyon tungkol sa Surf2Sawa at mga susunod pang event ng BRGY S2S, bisitahin ang surf2sawa.com o i-follow ang Facebook page na www.facebook.com/Surf2Sawa .

SM Malls in the East Light Up Purple Once More for BorahaEast 2.0

BTS is back in the spotlight — and with that, BorahaEast 2.0 returns, bringing a full, vibrant purple celebration to all SM Malls across the East.

Attention, Filo ARMY! A purple-themed celebration is sweeping through SM Supermalls in the East as BorahaEast 2.0 makes its highly anticipated comeback, promising an even bigger, more thrilling season than before.

Fueled by excitement over BTS’ latest album Arirang and their ongoing sold-out world tour, this initiative unites ARMY members from all over the Philippines to celebrate music, friendship, creativity, and the unforgettable bond shared within the fandom. 

SM Malls in the East celebrate BorahaEast 2.0 ARMY Fan Festival on June 13 to July 9

In partnership with ARMYs of the East PH, this campaign transforms seven SM locations into purple-filled hubs where fans can connect, celebrate, and build lasting memories:

- SM Center Angono

- SM Center Antipolo Downtown

- SM City East Ortigas

- SM City Marikina

- SM City Masinag

- SM City San Mateo

- SM City Taytay

From June 13 to July 9, attendees can look forward to a packed lineup of activities across all venues. Highlights include the iconic purple illumination that turns participating malls into glowing landmarks, cup sleeve events where fans can bond over shared love for BTS, and pop-up markets stocked with official merchandise and unique fan-made collectibles. 

Energetic fan chants are always fun with hundreds of co-ARMYs cheering together

Running while fangirling to BTS is always a good idea

Groove with co-ARMYs to BTS hits at ARMY fan gatherings

Combining fitness and fandom, the Purple Run proves that enjoying BTS’ music while on the move is always a great idea.

These gatherings serve as the perfect space for everything from deep discussions about favorite members and shared concert stories to exchanging fan-made freebies and making new friends. For those who love to move, Random Play Dance sessions let fans dance their hearts out to BTS’ discography. The celebration culminates in July with the Neon Purple Run — a vibrant finale where runners and fans alike take to the streets in purple, creating unforgettable memories with every step. 

Tag along your ARMY bestie and create lasting fangirl memories

Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings

Fan gatherings also feature fun ARMY-themed games, where attendees can win exciting prizes and take home special souvenirs. 

Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings

BTS merch—official or fanmade in all forms—available for collection at the Pop-up Market in select SM malls and dates.

So put on your best purple outfit, grab your light stick, and get ready to celebrate BTS Festa in the most spectacular way possible at BorahaEast 2.0. 

To ensure you don’t miss a single purple moment, follow the official social media pages of all seven participating SM Malls in the East. Stay updated on schedules, surprise announcements, and exclusive offers — then head to your favorite malls, celebrate to the fullest, and make memories that will last a lifetime with your fellow ARMY. 

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Glow Up Your Everyday with Exclusive Deals on Samsung Galaxy Flagship Devices

Unlock Your Full Potential: Special Offers on Galaxy S25 & S26 Series, Galaxy Z Fold7, and Galaxy Z Flip7 

We have all been there—waiting for the perfect moment to launch a new project, set off on a dream trip, or finally commit to that side hustle. Consider this the sign you have been waiting for. Samsung is rolling out exclusive deals across its flagship lineup, including the Galaxy S25 and S26 Series, Galaxy Z Fold7, and Galaxy Z Flip7. Each device is engineered to power your prime era—helping you become a more inspired version of yourself, with intuitive Galaxy AI as the driving force that pushes you to achieve more. 

Life may not get less busy, but you can get better at managing it. This year, the idea of the “Leveled Up You” is all about finding a better rhythm. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by an ever-growing to-do list, you can use the right technology to stay a step ahead. You can pursue your career goals confidently, while still making time for travel and the small joys that make life exciting.

Upgrade How You Work and Achieve

For students and professionals who want to redefine productivity, the Galaxy S26 Series—including the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra—and the Galaxy S25 Series—featuring the Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and the versatile Galaxy S25 FE—are your keys to getting things done faster. Imagine sitting through a lecture or a long meeting and never worrying about missing details or dealing with messy notes.

Powered by Galaxy AI, Note Assist automatically organizes your handwritten notes and creates clear, concise summaries. Transcript Assist works quietly in the background, converting audio recordings into perfectly structured text. When inspiration strikes, have a natural conversation with Gemini Live to brainstorm your next big idea. Now Nudge keeps track of your schedule and offers helpful reminders before you even check your calendar. Even your simplest questions get instant answers with Circle to Search, which lets you identify anything displayed on your screen without interrupting your flow. 

Live Your Best Life, Powered by Galaxy AI

Innovation extends far beyond the workplace. For creators and explorers, the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 redefine what it means to capture and enjoy a life well-lived. The Galaxy Z Fold7 transforms from a sleek, pocketable device into an expansive, tablet-sized canvas, letting you multitask effortlessly—for example, editing a travel vlog while checking flight updates and messaging friends at the same time. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is an ultra-compact, hands-free companion with a large, functional cover screen, so you can capture perfect moments without even unfolding the phone.

The “Leveled Up You” does not just take photos—you create cinematic stories. With Nightography Video, dimly lit dinners or evening adventures turn into vivid, high-quality memories. If a shot isn’t quite perfect, Photo Assist lets you refine the image—moving subjects or filling in backgrounds—with just a tap. Additionally, the industry-first Privacy Display on the Galaxy S26 Ultra ensures your creative work and personal data stay private and for your eyes only. 

With a Galaxy device in your hands, goals that once seemed distant suddenly feel within reach. You have been waiting for a chance to change how you work, play, and create—and now that moment is here. The era of the “Leveled Up You” has officially begun, and your new favorite device is ready to lead the way. This is exactly the sign you needed.

Upgrading your lifestyle has never been easier. Take advantage of these exclusive promotions available across all flagship devices—from the advanced Galaxy S25 and S26 Series to the stylish, portable Galaxy Z Series. These limited-time offers put the world’s most powerful technology right within your grasp. 

Exclusive Promotions & Deals 

- Galaxy S25 Series: Get up to 47% off with the S25 Family Trade-In program.

- Galaxy S25 FE: Enjoy a free double storage upgrade, plus additional discounts worth up to ₱16,000 off.

- Galaxy Z Fold7 & Z Flip7: Save up to ₱6,000 off at Samsung Authorized Stores; or get up to 46% off the Galaxy Z Fold7 via the Family Trade-In option.

- Credit Card Offers: Cardholders can avail of up to 12% off and 0% installment plans for up to 24 months, available through participating channels until June 30, 2026.

For full terms and details, please visit samsung.com.ph or the Samsung Philippines Newsroom.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-252729 Series of 2026

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-254449 Series of 2026

Back-to-School Shopping? Here’s Why Anko Is Your Go-To Destination for Kids’ School Essentials

It’s that time of year again: parents and children are getting ready for another school term. Between long shopping lists, crowded stores, and endless errands, the process can quickly become overwhelming — even for the most organized families. While many have their usual go-to stores, an increasing number are adding a new, unexpected favorite to their back-to-school routine.

Anko, widely recognized for quality, stylish, and budget-friendly home and lifestyle products, has established itself as a trusted source for school-ready items. From charming notebooks and organizers to sturdy lunch gear and study space upgrades, this Australian brand offers a curated selection designed to make the start of the school year smoother, easier, and more enjoyable for every family.

A Smarter Way to Complete Your School Supply List

Beyond basic essentials, the beginning of the school year is also about building routines and creating environments that keep children motivated all year long. At Anko, even the simplest supplies feature playful, stylish touches that turn daily studying from a routine task into a creative experience.

This is also the perfect opportunity to refresh your home study area. Desk organizers and pegboards instantly transform any study nook into a neat, functional space that helps students focus and keeps clutter at bay.

Best of all, Anko carries a vast range of high-quality, affordable items — many priced below ₱100. This includes erasers, pencil cases, sharpeners, sticky notes, and much more. 

Cable organizer (₱490), Cable management box (₱490), Magnetic whiteboard (₱290), Desktop pegboard set (₱1,400) & assortment of stationery ranging from erasers, sharpeners, correction tape and more, starting from ₱20 — Anko

Mealtime essentials are just as important as what goes inside a backpack. Durable lunch boxes and drink bottles are must-haves for parents seeking reliable options that can withstand daily use, while featuring fun designs that make children excited to bring them to school. 

Ceramic coffee cup (₱450), Blue and pink flared bottles (₱180), Dual function drink bottle (₱520), etc., and Space cold rack (₱350), Blue stripe lunch box (₱520), Dinosaur and strawberry bottle and lunchbox sets (₱560), and etc.

Silicone bento lunchbox (₱ 550), Croissant notebook (₱ 220) & Dual function drink bottle (₱ 520) — Courtesy of Anko

When shopping for school items, it helps to choose products within your budget that your children will love. After all, the best value supplies are the ones students are eager to use every day. Anko’s stationery line offers everyday essentials ranging from just ₱20 to ₱100. Whether you are preparing for the new term or restocking mid-year, you can fully equip your kids without straining your budget.

Get Ready for Back-to-School Season

To make shopping even more exciting, Anko will host a free Bento Box Workshop on June 6 at its Ayala Malls Feliz branch. Families are invited to join and learn how to prepare fun, school-friendly meals that children will look forward to eating.

Parents and students interested in attending can register for free via the Anko Club app (anko.com/anko-club) or by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and Facebook. Membership unlocks exclusive activities, workshops, and special perks, including seasonal in-store events throughout the year.

When back-to-school shopping is easy and enjoyable, the school year gets off to a bright start right from day one.