Author: Press Release

A live-action LEGO® Friends musical is coming to screens this October

The LEGO^® Group has officially announced LEGO Friends: Heartlake The Musical, the franchise’s first-ever live-action adaptation, premiering for free globally on October 16 on the LEGO Group’s official YouTube channel.

The 50-minute musical is produced by acclaimed director and executive producer Kenny Ortega, (known for his work on the High School Musical franchise and The Cheetah Girls ), Jill Wilfert of LEGO Entertainment, and Michael McKenna and Hanah Draper of Final Pixel. Joining them to direct and choreograph is filmmaker Paul Becker who is known for his work on massive hits like The Last of Us and Descendants.

The story follows Daisy, a creative teenager who, after moving to a new town, escapes her loneliness by building a detailed LEGO Friends world in her bedroom — only to be whisked into the vibrant world of Heartlake City where she embarks on a music-filled journey with new friends. Packed with four original songs written exclusively for the musical, and spectacular performances, the special brings beloved LEGO Friends characters from brick to screen like never before.

Watch the trailer for LEGO Friends: Heartlake City the Musical here and don’t miss the full premiere on 16 October. Stay tuned to the LEGO YouTube channel and discover a world of friendship, creativity and imagination brought to life.

Build Your Own Heartlake City

The excitement goes beyond the screen for families and collectors in the Philippines. To celebrate the global premiere, the LEGO Group is rolling out exclusive deals for the entire month of October. Buyers can score up to 25% off on select LEGO Friends sets. Some of the featured sets up for grabs include:

Since launching in 2012, LEGO Friends has grown into one of the LEGO Group’s most beloved home-grown franchises, extending beyond physical play through animated series, digital content, books and experiences that have connected with audiences around the world.

For more details, visit www.lego.com or follow official LEGO stores online such as bankeebricks.ph, Lazada, and Shopee.

October 10, 2026
Mastercard Brings an Exclusive Somni x Gallery by Chele Gastronomic Experience to Manila

Mastercard is teaming up with Gallery by Chele to bring cardholders an exclusive experience as internationally acclaimed chefs Aitor Zabala of Los Angeles’ three-Michelin-starred Somni and Chele González of Manila’s Michelin-starred and Michelin Green Star-awarded Gallery by Chele reunite in the Philippines for an exclusive two-night culinary collaboration.

Taking place on October 9 and 10, 2026, Evolution: A Somni x Gallery by Chele Collaboration offers guests a rare opportunity to experience the coming together of two chefs whose culinary journeys began more than two decades ago at Spain’s legendary El Bulli before taking them to opposite sides of the world.

As the Official Card of Evolution: A Somni x Gallery by Chele Collaboration, Mastercard is proud to support a dining experience that reflects the growing richness and international recognition of the Philippine culinary landscape while creating memorable moments that connect people through food, culture and discovery.

“At Mastercard, we know that today’s consumers increasingly value meaningful experiences that create lasting memories,” said Jason Crasto, Country Manager,Mastercard Philippines. “We are committed to connecting people to extraordinary moments that celebrate culture, passion and human connection. This collaboration between Chef Chele and Chef Aitor is a powerful example of how food can bring people together while showcasing the Philippines as an exciting global culinary destination.”

The specially curated menu, Evolution, explores how both chefs have evolved from their shared Spanish culinary heritage into distinctive voices shaped by the places they now call home. Drawing inspiration from local ingredients, traditions and the communities surrounding them, the experience offers guests a unique culinary journey that bridges continents through storytelling and creativity.

For Mastercard, the collaboration reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Philippines’ vibrant dining scene and providing cardholders with access to exceptional gastronomic experiences.

Over the last decade, the Philippines has emerged as one of Asia’s most exciting food destinations, driven by world-class chefs, local producers and growing international recognition. Experiences such as Evolution not only celebrate culinary excellence but also spotlight the country’s rich ingredients, innovation and hospitality to a global audience.

Mastercard cardholders can enjoy seamless, secure payments while unlocking access to unforgettable dining experiences that go beyond a meal, creating moments that are truly Priceless.

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re helping build a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payment choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

October 10, 2026
Filipino TGI Fridays Bartender Roniel Lopez Wins World Bartending Championship

Filipino talent shone on the world stage when Roniel Lopez of TGIFridays Philippines was crowned 2026 Grand Champion at the recent World Bartending Championship held in Orlando, Florida, besting seven top bartenders from the USA, Greece, Trinidad and Tobago, Peru, UK, Japan and Taiwan. Named 1st Runner Up was Chantry Coffman of USA while Aleksandro Naksi of Greece was adjudged 2^nd runner-up.

The victory was sealed after an exceptional performance across both key stages of the competition. One was the Compulsory Round where he displayed technical knowledge, recipe accuracy and precision pour mechanics under strict speed and standard guidelines. The other was in the Freestyle Competition where he wowed the crowd and judges with his high-energy and captivating flair tending, executing complex bottle flips, throws and catches paired with a magnetic stage presence.

From Empty Bottles to the World Stage

Lopez’s bartending journey began when he was in Grade 7. As a young enthusiast with limited access to professional gear, he taught himself flair bartending by wrapping empty glass bottles in tape to practice spins and catches coupled with a versatile imagination.

Understandably, while he was flipping bottles, he was dropping them, but he soldiered on. To refine his craft, he joined various competitions and took a three-month TESDA bartending course where he learned the fundamentals of traditional bartending and mixing.

His work as a bartender at TGIFridays Eastwood helped him become the consummate performer. It taught him something that videos and solo practices could not impart, in short, how to work a crowd. Lopez has been part of the Bar Tour since 2023 where demonstrates techniques, teaches bartending, and shares the Fridays’ story. He passionately shares his skills and passion with fellow mixologists and guests.

His first Fridays BCBIT (Best Corner Bar In Town) competition in 2023 ended with a low score. This did not deter him from goal – to be the best bartender at TGIFridays. He improved what was needed and came back stronger, topping the BCBIT in 2024. In August 2025, he competed in the TGIFriday’s Philippines Bartending Championship and won the grand prize.

Preparing for the World Bartending Championship demanded commitment, with daily training stretching from eight to ten hours. He memorized hundreds of drink recipes, perfected high-energy flair tricks, refined stage presence and audience engagement . “My goal was to bring something different and original during the competition. I wanted to give the complete package: technical knowledge, accuracy, flair, personality, energy, confidence, and compelling showmanship,” Lopez said.

TGIFridays has produced several world champions on the global bartending stage. Eric “El Terrible” Martinez captured the world title in 2006. In 2015, Rizza Umlas made history as the first woman to ever win the championship, while Jholan Peñafiel was crowned Grand Champion in 2017.

And this year, it was Lopez’s turn to bring immense pride to TGIFridays Philippines and stands as a testament to world-class Filipino talent in the global F & B and hospitality industry.

October 10, 2026
It Started With One Spoon: llaollao Marks 10 Years in the Philippines
llaollao celebrates its 10th anniversary in the Philippines on October 10, 2026, marking a decade of growth from its first two Philippine stores to 110 locations nationwide.

Built around the anniversary line “It started with one spoon,” the celebration brings together 10 days of nationwide offers, a 10 Destinations Anniversary Getaway Raffle, and Spoon to School, an initiative that gives customers another way to reuse llaollao’s familiar green spoon.

One spoon. Ten years. 110 stores.

Since entering the Philippine market, llaollao has become part of everyday routines—from after-school and after-work stops to weekend mall visits, family outings and barkada meetups. The green spoon, long associated with the brand and designed to be reusable, serves as the central symbol of its 10th-year campaign.

10 days of anniversary offers

The anniversary celebration begins on October 10 across participating llaollao branches nationwide, with special offers running through October 19:
- October 10 — Petit Sanum for PHP 10: The first 100 customers per participating branch wearing at least one visible green clothing item can enjoy a Petit Sanum for PHP 10.
- October 11–17 — PHP 10 Toppings of the Day: Customers can add the designated regular Toppings of the Day for PHP 10, subject to promo mechanics.
- October 18 — Free Medium-to-Large Tub Upsize: Customers purchasing a Medium Tub with three toppings can enjoy a free upsize to a Large Tub, subject to promo mechanics.
- October 19 — Small Tub for PHP 100: Customers can enjoy a Small Tub with one regular topping for PHP 100, subject to promo mechanics.
The 10-day campaign is designed around products and ordering habits already familiar to llaollao customers, giving the anniversary a nationwide celebration that remains rooted in the everyday brand experience.

10 winners, 10 destinations

The anniversary also includes the 10 Destinations Anniversary Getaway Raffle, which will award trips to 10 winners across 10 destinations in the Philippines, with each destination also home to a llaollao branch.

Customers may use qualifying llaollao receipts dated September 1 to November 10, 2026 to join the raffle, subject to the complete promo mechanics.

The electronic raffle draw will be held on November 15, 2026 and livestreamed on llaollao Philippines’ official Facebook page, where the 10 winners will be selected.

The raffle extends the anniversary beyond a single store or city and reflects llaollao’s growth across the country over the past decade.

Spoon to School

As part of its 10th anniversary, llaollao is also launching Spoon to School, an initiative that builds on the reusable design of its green spoon.

Customers will be encouraged to return their clean green llaollao spoons through designated collection bins at participating branches. The collected spoons will be processed and repurposed into material for the production of school chairs.

To identify schools that may benefit from the program, llaollao has been working with the Department of Education – Schools Division Office of San Juan City.

West Crame Elementary School will serve as the first beneficiary of Spoon to School.

The initiative is intended to continue beyond the first turnover, with llaollao planning to work with the Department of Education to identify succeeding schools that may benefit from future batches of collected and repurposed spoons.

Spoon to School gives customers another way to extend the use of a familiar part of the llaollao experience—whether by continuing to reuse their spoons themselves or by returning them so the material can take on a new purpose.

For llaollao, the 10th anniversary is both a milestone in scale and a celebration of the small, familiar details that have remained constant throughout its growth.

Ten years ago, there were two stores.

Today, there are 110.

The spoon was already there.
October 9, 2026
Film Concerts Philippines Presents ‘Film Music Legends’, A New Orchestral Concert Series

Film Concerts Philippines, the country’s leading producer of live-to-film concerts, announces Film Music Legends, a new concert series presenting film music in a standalone orchestral format, without film projection.

Each installment will explore a composer’s wider body of work, featuring well-known scores alongside pieces rarely performed live. Selected programs will also bring together works by multiple composers connected by a shared theme, genre, or period in film history.

The series is curated by Maestro Gerard Salonga, founder and musical director of the Filharmonika Orchestra, who developed the programming in collaboration with Mikhail Schemm, founder and CEO of Third Culture Entertainment Inc., the company behind Film Concerts Philippines. Salonga has conducted an extensive repertoire of film scores throughout his career, both in the Philippines and internationally.

“This is an exciting new series of concerts dedicated to celebrating the music of these composers,” Salonga says. “Yes, the music was originally composed for film, but as you will hear, these pieces can stand up very well on their own as concert pieces. I’m convinced that many of these works will become part of the ‘classical’ symphonic repertoire, and in fact, over the course of music history, many pieces originally intended for a different purpose, such as opera overtures by Rossini and incidental music composed as scoring for plays by the likes of Beethoven and Mendelssohn, and even Korngold’s film music, have become part of the symphonic concert repertoire.

“One of the things I look forward to most is presenting these pieces in the world-class acoustical environment of the Proscenium, which is the proper setting for symphonic music. No microphones or amplification, just great natural acoustics to share these works with the audience in the best possible light: great music with a fantastic orchestra, in a fabulous-sounding concert hall designed for classical music. This combination makes for a complete experience. It was a delight to curate these programmes with Mikhail.”

Film Music Legends will be presented at the Proscenium Theater, an intimate 776-seat performing arts venue at Rockwell Center in Makati. Designed with the acoustic expertise of Müller-BBM, the theater’s main hall allows the full depth and detail of orchestral music to be heard through its natural acoustics, without microphones or amplification.

“At Proscenium, we designed our theater to be a home for great music, because great music deserves a space where it can be truly heard and appreciated,” says Tracey Castillo, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Rockwell Land Corporation.

“The Film Music Legends series is a wonderful opportunity to do just that. We are grateful to be the venue for a thoughtfully selected repertoire that brings some of the most iconic compositions written for cinema into an intimate concert setting. We’re delighted to welcome Film Concerts Philippines and the Filharmonika Orchestra to Proscenium, and to bring this exceptional music to our community.”

Three concerts will be presented throughout 2027. The series opens in January with The Music of John Williams: 95th Birthday Tribute, honoring the legendary “Maestro of the Movies” and his enduring contribution to cinema. The program will feature music from Harry Potter, Saving Private Ryan, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Superman, StarWars, Amistad, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Fiddler on the Roof.

In May, Italian Film Music Legends will celebrate the works of Ennio Morricone, Nino Rota, and Nicola Piovani—composers behind the music of such films as Nuovo Cinema Paradiso, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, and The Godfather, among many others.

The series concludes in September with a program featuring heroic and villainous scores from across film history, spanning horror, thrillers, Westerns, and superhero films.

Mikhail Schemm shares his vision for giving audiences the opportunity to experience and appreciate film music independently of the films for which it was composed:“It was a pleasure developing the program with Gerard. We’re both excited to take a more curated approach to presenting film music. The popular films and soundtracks featured in our concerts are audience favourites, but it has long been our goal to introduce audiences here to a broader repertoire, including deeper cuts from film music. Being able to do this through our own original concert series makes it all the more exciting.”

An exclusive Film Concerts Philippines pre-sale for the first installment, The Music of John Williams: 95th Birthday Tribute, will begin on October 12 at 10:00 AM. Audiences may subscribe at filmconcerts.ph/community to receive early access.

A separate pre-sale for Rockwell employees, residents, and tenants will open on October 15.

Public ticket sales begin on October 20 via Ticketmelon.com

October 9, 2026
Ballet Manila’s Ibong Adarna takes flight anew at the Areté stage in Ateneo

A magical story that generations of Filipinos love and know by heart is once again set to come alive in a completely different and enchanting way.

This October, Ballet Manila brings Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s Ibong Adarna back to the stage, transforming the beloved Filipino tale of an enchanted bird, royal brothers, forbidden love, and a quest for healing into a spectacle of music, movement, and dance.

One of the company’s most beloved and performed productions, Ibong Adarna will be staged at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City on October 9 at 7:30 p.m. and October 10 at 5 p.m.

“Ibong Adarna is one of Ballet Manila’s most requested offsite performances. This year, it already had two shows at Jose Rizal Coliseum in Laguna, and now the production is bound to return to Areté in Ateneo before continuing its way to Iloilo,” shared Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s CEO and Artistic Director.

Ibong Adarna tells the story of a mythical bird whose magical song has the power to heal the sick. When King Fernando of the Kingdom of Berbanya falls ill with an incurable disease, his three sons — Don Pedro, Don Diego, and Don Juan — set out on a quest to find the legendary Adarna and bring it back to save their father. The prince who succeeds in capturing the bird will inherit the throne.

The Areté run will feature a new set of leads from Ballet Manila’s powerhouse lineup. Performing as Ibong Adarna is Shaira Comeros, alongside Mark Sumaylo as Don Pedro, Rafael Perez as Don Juan, and Romeo Peralta as Don Diego. The alternate cast is led by Jessica Pearl Dames as Ibong Adarna, with Juan Angelo De Leon as Don Juan, Ralp John Balagot as Don Pedro, and Sean Pelegrin as Don Diego.

Ibong Adarna is fast becoming a Filipino ballet classic. Although Ballet Manila has staged the production numerous times in various venues, each re-staging brings something new, shaped in large part by its evolving cast of dancers.

“Every time we bring Ibong Adarna to a new audience, we discover something new about the story and the characters. That is what makes it special. It remains familiar to many Filipinos, but ballet allows us to experience the story in a different way,” Macuja Elizalde said.

Staging Ibong Adarna at the Areté is part of Ballet Manila’s broader mission of bringing people to ballet and ballet to the people. By taking the production beyond the traditional theater setting and into communities or cities, the company opens more opportunities for audiences to experience live ballet and discover this art form through stories already part of Filipino culture.

For those who may have encountered the classic tale in school, books, or childhood, Ballet Manila offers an exciting way to see the story as it combines a well-loved narrative with music, movement, complex characters, and the artistry of its dancers.

Don’t miss Ibong Adarna at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University on October 9 and 10 only. For tickets, visit Ticketworld at www.premier.ticketworld.com.ph. Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting www.balletmanila.com.ph.

October 8, 2026
PETA brings Lola Basyang to New Generation

The Philippine Educational Theater Association is currently restaging “Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang at iba pa…” at the PETA Theater Center in New Manila, Quezon City, ahead of an extended run in February 2027 and a national tour.

Severino Reyes introduced Lola Basyang in Liwayway Magazine back in 1925. Over a century later, her famous rocking chair returns to the stage. First adapted for PETA by Christine Bellen in 2005, this revival is a lively, interactive response to a modern world dominated by short attention spans, algorithms, and artificial intelligence.

The lineup features two of Reyes’ classic tales adapted by Bellen, “Ang Prinsipeng Mahaba ang Ilong” (which touches on self-worth beyond physical appearance and standing up to bullying) and “Ang Binibining Tumalo sa Hari” (a story showing how wit and intellect can challenge arbitrary authority). Joining them is a third piece by PETA Artistic Director J-mee Katanyag entitled “Ang Bantay ng Huling Buwan.”

Katanyag introduces Uriel, a curious young girl living in a world filled with smartphones, vlogs, and constant online noise. When Uriel encounters Lola Basyang, ancient myth collides directly with digital culture, tackling media literacy, misinformation, fake news, and the mythic Bakunawa through a lens of critical thinking and community action.

“The children who first encountered PETA’s Lola Basyang in 2005 have grown up. Some may now be parents, teachers, artists, and storytellers themselves. The children encountering her today are growing up in a slightly different world, where stories arrive through screens, feeds, memes, videos, and algorithms,” Katanyag revealed.

For director Phil Noble, who helmed earlier iterations of the production, staging Lola Basyang for today’s young audience presents a distinct creative challenge. “Today’s children live in a world of vlogging, AI, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and so much more. They can create their own worlds with just a screen. This time, I want them to discover another kind of world – the world of live theatre. I want them to open themselves to other possibilities, to immerse themselves in the stories, and to become part of the magical world of Lola B,” he explained.

Noble’s team, including associate director and choreographer Gio Gahol, set designer Julio Garcia, costume designer Carlo Pagunaling, musical director Kabaitan Bautista, composer Noel Cabangon, and lighting designer Satya Edilo, has revitalized the production. The performance builds on fresh choreography, updated visual elements, and expanded musical arrangements crafted specifically to hold the attention of kids used to fast-paced digital media.

The production breaks down the distance between the stage and the seats. Lola Basyang directly speaks to the kids in the audience, asking questions and drawing them into key decisions throughout the show.

Maribel Legarda, director of the show’s mobile excerpt version with designers Boni Juan, Siglo, and Ian Torqueza, considered this direct audience participation as vital for development. “Reviving a classic does not mean reproducing it exactly as it was. Stories live because they are able to speak to changing generations. As PETA always does, we take the time to finesse certain elements so they can speak more meaningfully and responsibly to children and audiences today,” she shared.

As PETA approaches its 60th year, “Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang at iba pa…” proves that folklore is a live, dynamic space where generations can gather, question assumptions, and imagine new possibilities together.

Kiki Baento stars as Lola Basyang with CB Garrucho, Yhuan Gatbunton, Belle Mendoza, Leo Lapitan, Thor Ganchero, Nyla Festejo, Roi Calilong, Ayla Garcia, Mico Esquivel, and JC Sunto providing support as cast members. Yhuan Gatbunton, Ericka Peralejo, Carlon Matobato, James Pe Lim, and Icee Po are part of the excerpt cast.

For inquiries and bookings, contact King Joshua Nalupa via Viber at 09936436018 or email kingjoshuanalupa@petatheater.com.

October 7, 2026
Get Up to P22,000 in Guaranteed Freebies with iPhone 18 Pro Pre-Order
Apple enthusiasts can officially secure the all-new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max as pre-orders go live across all Beyond the Box and Digital Walker retail branches and online store platforms.

Renowned for their industry-leading customer experience, Beyond the Box and Digital Walker are elevating this year’s iPhone launch with unprecedented perks, complete transparency, and unmatched payment flexibility.

Guaranteed Freebies Worth ₱22,000

You’ll score ₱22,000 in freebies when you pre-order the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max. The P22,000 includes:
- iPhone 18 Pro Momax Gift Set worth P2,670
- Momax 1-Vibe Bottle Magnetic Wireless Speaker Flask – P3,490
- Bellroy Lite Tech Kit – P3,190
- Function 101 Magsafe Ring Stand + Grip Holder – P990
- Urbanista Malibu Solar-powered Bluetooth Speakers – P8,990
- Exclusive Native Union Tote Bag – P1,790 (Unboxing incentive)
What makes Beyond the Box and Digital Walker stand out is how simple they keep it: every freebie item is listed with its SRP, taking out the guesswork so you know the exact value you’re getting.

Double Tech Bites Rewards Points

To add further value, every pre-order earns Double Tech Bites Loyalty Points. Under the standard reward structure of ₱300 = 1 point, a purchase of ₱100,000 earns over 600 Tech Bites points which will be credited upon unit pick-up. Customers can redeem these points on their next transaction to purchase premium tech accessories or enjoy dining at any restaurant under the popular Tasteless Food Group.

Unbeatable Financing & Lower-Than-Cash Payment Deals

Upgrading to the latest flagship is more accessible than ever with flexible financing options:
- 0% Interest Installment Plans: Available from 24 up to 36 months through partner credit cards.
- Exclusive Rates: Select payment terms offer promotional such as LOWER THAN CASH PRICE, providing maximum savings for customers.
Flexible Reservation Option

For customers still deciding on their final specifications, unit reservations can be secured with a ₱5,000 downpayment. To guarantee unit allocation, the remaining balance must be settled on or before October 16.

Secure Preferred Units Early

Due to high global demand, customers are strongly advised to place their pre-orders early to ensure availability for their preferred color and storage capacity.

Pre-orders can be placed today at all physical Beyond the Box and Digital Walker stores nationwide, as well as their respective online store channels.
October 7, 2026
Why the GLP-1 Conversation Is Changing the Way Filipinos Shop for Food

If there was one wellness conversation that defined the past two years, it was the rise of GLP-1 medications. From Hollywood celebrities to everyday patients, prescription treatments have reshaped conversations around weight management, nutrition, and long-term health. While the trend first gained widespread attention in the United States, GLP-1 therapies are also becoming more accessible in the Philippines through licensed hospitals, clinics, and telehealth providers, bringing with them a growing interest in healthier, more intentional eating habits.

While GLP-1 medications can help regulate appetite and blood sugar, they don’t replace the need for a balanced diet. In fact, The American Diabetes Association’s Standards of Care emphasizes that these medications work best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes individualized nutrition and other lifestyle interventions. Choosing nutrient-dense foods and being more mindful of added sugars can help support overall health and complement broader lifestyle changes.

One of the simplest places to start is learning how to read sugar labels.

Decoding the label is a challenge in itself

Reducing sugar isn’t always as straightforward as choosing products labeled “healthy.” Terms like “sugar-free,” “no added sugar,” and “naturally sweetened” each mean different things, while added sugars can appear under a variety of names in ingredient lists.

Recognizing the growing demand for greater transparency around nutrition, Healthy Options curates a wide selection of products with clearly labeled nutritional information and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, making it easier for shoppers to compare products, understand sugar claims, and find options that suit different dietary preferences and wellness goals.

“We’re seeing more customers ask questions about ingredients and nutrition—not only because they want to eat healthier, but because they’re looking for products that fit their individual wellness goals,” said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Healthy Options. “Whether someone is simply cutting back on sugar or following a nutrition plan recommended by their healthcare professional, we want to make it easier for them to shop with confidence.”

Understanding sugar claims

Food packaging often highlights sugar-related claims, but understanding what these labels actually mean can help you make more informed grocery choices.

Sugar-Free products contain only minimal amounts of sugar per serving and often use alternative sweeteners to provide sweetness.

No Added Sugar means no sugars or sugar-containing ingredients were added during production, although naturally occurring sugars from ingredients such as fruit or milk may still be present.

Naturally Sweetened indicates that sweetness comes from naturally derived ingredients instead of refined sugar. While this is not a standardized regulatory claim, checking the Nutrition Facts panel and ingredient list remains the best way to understand what’s inside.

Beyond front-of-pack claims, reviewing the serving size, total sugar, fiber, protein, and ingredient list provides a more complete picture of how a product fits into your overall eating plan.

Better Choices for a Lower-Sugar Lifestyle

Understanding labels is only the first step. The next is choosing products that support your lifestyle and wellness goals.

Healthy Options offers a variety of alternatives, from Healthy Options Sugar-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies for an afternoon snack, to St. Amour Triples Cookies, which are sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan for sharing with family and friends. For those craving something sweet, Amberlyn’s Sugar-Free Belgian Chocolates offer portion-friendly treats, while other snacks like Pip’s Heirloom Sea Salt Mini Popcorn and Sweet Switch’s sugar-free gummies and mints provide convenient snack options for movie nights, commutes, or travel.

Customers can also turn to the Healthy Options store team for guidance while shopping. They can help shoppers navigate product labels and explore options based on their dietary preferences and needs, providing added support in making more informed choices in-store.

“There isn’t one definition of healthy because every person’s journey is different,” added Sia. “Our goal is to give customers the information, transparency, and product choices they need to make choices that work for their lifestyle. When people understand what’s on the label, they’re better equipped to choose foods that support their long-term wellness.” that work for their lifestyle. When people understand what’s on the label, they’re better equipped to choose foods that support their long-term wellness.”

As conversations around GLP-1 therapies continue to encourage more intentional eating, one habit stands out regardless of whether someone is taking medication: understanding what’s inside the food we buy. By making nutrition information easier to navigate and offering carefully selected products that support a variety of dietary preferences, Healthy Options helps empower consumers to turn healthier intentions into smarter, everyday grocery decisions.

October 7, 2026
Nike Sportswear Celebrates LISA’s Moonshot in New Moon Shoe Campaign

LISA is the ultimate multi-hyphenate: rapper, singer, dancer, actress, and style icon. At 14, LALISA MANOBAL, won the YG Entertainment audition and left her home in Thailand to train as a K-pop artist. By 2026, LISA of Blackpink has solidified her evolution from K-pop sensation to Nike partner, and global superstar – living out her ultimate dream, having achieved her moonshot.

The legendary Moon Shoe was Nike’s original moonshot. Born out of an idea in co-founder, Bill Boweman’s kitchen, the Moon Shoe experiment cemented Nike’s reputation as an innovator and gave rise to the company’s first major footwear breakthroughs. It helped deliver the blueprint for Nike’s approach and long-term success: experiment boldly, keep refining, and never stop pushing forward – much like LISA.

This fall, Nike Sportswear celebrates LISA’s meteoric journey in a campaign showcasing the global icon wearing the sleek and fashion-forward Moon Shoe silhouette. LISA reaches the greatest of heights, leaving her shoe print on the moon, planting the Nike Sportswear (NSW) flag, and standing atop a lunar podium. The striking visuals are set to “Mister Magic Moon,” a track released in 1964 by The Kim Sisters (with Joe Tanner’s Orchestra) – the first globally successful K-Pop group, long before the term existed. It’s a full circle moment as the campaign honors the past, while showcasing the future, much like the Moon Shoe itself.

The Nike Sportswear Moon Shoe is available now in new seasonal colorways on Nike.com and at select Nike and partner retail locations globally.

October 7, 2026