Golden Ties of Friendship” Festival Opens at Fisher Mall to Mark 50 Years of PH–China Relations

 

Quezon City, Philippines — The three-day cultural extravaganza Golden Ties of Friendship: Kaalaman, Kaunlaran, Kasayahan officially opened on October 2 at the Atrium (Upper Ground Floor) of Fisher Mall, Quezon Avenue, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China.

With the theme centered on knowledge (kaalaman), progress (kaunlaran), and joy (kasayahan), the event is organized by the Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) in cooperation with partner institutions. Admission is free to the public, with doors opening daily at 10:30 a.m. 

Colorful banners featuring the festival mascots Nanoy the Tamaraw and Pinchi the Panda greet visitors as they enter the atrium. The mascots, designed to personify Filipino and Chinese friendship, are intended to engage families and children, adding a playful atmosphere to the cultural celebration. 

Opening and Notable Guests

The opening ceremony drew a crowd that included former Senator Nikki Coseteng, former Marikina Mayor Marides Fernando, and Wilson Flores, who served as host/speaker. The event also saw the participation of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who formally joined the opening. 

In her remarks, Coseteng extended a warm invitation to the public to join in the three-day celebration and highlighted the event as a vibrant showcase of cultural unity. 

Mayor Belmonte emphasized the importance of such cultural exchanges in fostering unity and deeper understanding between peoples. She affirmed the city’s support for events that bring communities together. 

Cultural Showcase and Activities

Throughout October 2–4, the festival features a diverse program lineup: traditional Filipino and Chinese dance performances, fashion shows, cooking demonstrations, wellness talks, exhibits, and interactive activities for children. 

A unique highlight is the raffle program: organizers are giving away ₱100,000 worth of prizes each day, with surprise draws every two hours to encourage ongoing engagement among attendees. 

Exhibits within the venue trace the diplomatic journey between the two nations, showcasing milestones in bilateral cooperation, cultural exchange, trade, and people-to-people links.

The festival aims not only to entertain but also to educate. Speakers and experts deliver short talks and wellness sessions aimed at promoting holistic well-being and cross-cultural awareness.

Larger Context and Significance

The Philippines and China formally established diplomatic relations on June 9, 1975.  Over the decades, bilateral ties have expanded in trade, investment, cultural and academic exchange, infrastructure cooperation, and tourism.

In June 2025, a cultural presentation in Manila also marked the milestone, co-organized by the Chinese Embassy, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, and Filipino-Chinese associations. Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian, among other leaders, called for sustained cooperation and people-centric diplomacy. 

The current festival at Fisher Mall underscores the “people’s diplomacy” side of this 50-year relationship—bringing it down to the neighborhood level, inviting families, communities, students, and cultural enthusiasts to participate.

Outlook and Legacy

Over the next two days, organizers expect thousands of visitors from across Metro Manila and beyond. They hope the festival not only rekindles cultural pride but also inspires deeper connections between ordinary Filipinos and the Chinese community, fostering a spirit of long-term friendship.

By combining entertainment, culture, education, and community engagement, Golden Ties of Friendship aspires to be more than a celebration: it seeks to plant seeds of lasting goodwill, mutual understanding, and shared aspiration.

Rally Held at Liwasang Bonifacio to Oppose Impeachment Move Against Vice President Sara Duterte

 Hundreds of supporters gathered at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila today for a peaceful rally expressing strong opposition to the rumored impeachment plans against Vice President Sara Duterte. Organized by various civic groups, sectoral leaders, and political supporters, the event aimed to send a clear message to Congress: “Hands off Inday Sara.”

Banners reading “Cancel the Impeachment, Respect the Mandate” and “Support Good Governance” were seen all around the venue. The crowd included members of women's groups, youth organizations, transport sector leaders, OFW advocates, and even religious representatives, reflecting broad-based support for the Vice President.

Leaders from the “Kongreso ng Bayan,” a newly-formed alliance of civic and grassroots groups, spearheaded the event. In their statements, they emphasized that the impeachment threats are politically motivated and serve only to destabilize the current government. They stressed that the Vice President has not committed any impeachable offense, and such moves waste public resources and divide the nation.

“The Filipino people overwhelmingly voted for Vice President Sara Duterte in 2022. Any attempt to remove her from office through baseless accusations is a betrayal of that mandate,” said retired Gen. Alberto Reyes, one of the rally organizers.

The protesters also called on Congress to focus on more urgent national issues such as inflation, education, public health, and disaster response, instead of engaging in what they called “political harassment.”

In response to media queries, several speakers denied any links to partisan or destabilizing forces, saying that their only agenda is to protect democracy and uphold the rule of law.

Meanwhile, Vice President Duterte has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the rally or the impeachment rumors. However, her allies in the House of Representatives have expressed confidence that any impeachment complaint will fail due to lack of legal and factual basis.

As the sun set over Liwasang Bonifacio, rally-goers peacefully dispersed after a short prayer and the singing of the national anthem. Organizers vowed to hold more events nationwide if impeachment talks continue.

The rally served as a reminder that, for many Filipinos, Sara Duterte remains a strong and unifying figure. Whether or not the impeachment rumors materialize into formal charges, today’s protest clearly showed that she still enjoys solid grassroots support.

Solar Energy: Powering the Philippines’ Future

The Philippines is fast emerging as one of the most dynamic and promising solar energy markets globally. Under the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) 2020–2040, the government has set ambitious targets—aiming to generate 35% of energy from renewables by 2030, and 50% by 2040. As part of this commitment, the country plans to double its solar output by 2030 and host the world’s largest solar installation by early 2026, featuring 3.5 GW of solar capacity and 4 GWh of battery storage.

In alignment with these goals, the Philippine Solar, Power and Energy Expo will serve as a vital platform for stakeholders across the energy ecosystem—including manufacturers, exporters, distributors, importers, contractors, engineers, and new entrants—to explore collaboration and investment opportunities. The expo expects over 110 exhibitors from India, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Egypt, and other countries, with more than 3,000 professional visitors anticipated from across the ASEAN region.

Building the Future: Construction and Ceramics Expo

The Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo, running concurrently from July 29–31, 2025, is the country’s premier exhibition focused on construction, ceramic, interior, and building materials. It will bring together key players from the construction, housing, infrastructure, and ceramic sectors, offering unmatched opportunities for networking and business development. This event is poised to become a strategic gateway to the Southeast Asian business community and contribute significantly to infrastructure growth in the Philippines and the region.

•••

Genesis Global Exhibitions and ACE Group, with the support of the ASEAN India Economic Council, Philippine India Business Council, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is pleased to announce the upcoming Philippine Solar, Power and Energy Expo, co-located with the Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo, scheduled to take place from July 29–31, 2025, at Function Room 5, SMX Convention Centre, Manila, Philippines.

These exhibitions are proudly supported by the Philippines Solar and Storage Energy Alliance (PSSEA), Society of Philippine Electrotechnical Constructors and Suppliers (SPECS), PHILRECA, Power Professionals Association of the Philippines (PPAP), among others, with additional associations expected to join.

PBEd Announce for reinforcing not Blot Out of K to 12, bares 2025 State of PHL Education.

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       PASAY CITY — The Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) on Monday (July 7) called for the strengthening of K to 12 as it revealed the 2025 State of Philippine Education with the theme: “Charting a New Course: Reforms and Renewed Hope in Philippine Education”.

In a press conference at Milagritos, Tryp Hotel, noting that “Education is everybody’s business”,
PBEd President Dr. Chito Salazar said that PBEd has been doing this for the last 10 years and every school opening.
“We are still with the EdCom, TESDA, and ChEd and we still believe that there is still hope for the country’s education,” Dr. Salazar said.
However, he said “We really need to focus on the problems. This is the right time for the right leadership.”
“The problems of education are large and huge and they are continuing,” he added.
“Hindi po tama na 20% of our school children are stunted,” Dr. Salazar said.
He believes that ahead of any infrastructure projects in the country, the most important thing is education.

“We must make education everyone’s business,” Dr. Salazar said.
He stressed that with the decrease in budget in education in the 1960s, it started the decline in education.
Dr. Salazar noted that K to 12 need not be criticized as it needs more time to nurture.
“Huwag nating sisihin ang mga teacher because they are also part of the system,” he said.
He added that the teachers have many problems and they need career progression and not to remain as Teacher 1 until their retirement.
“Removing K to 12 is even more anti-poor because they are even the loser if they would not be given the chance to study for 12 years,” Dr. Salazar said.
“Tripocalization is not even perfect,” he added.
Dr Salazar pointed out that K to 12 need not be phased out, but rather, it should be fixed such that a Grade 4 who could not read can still be remedied in 2 years.
The PBEd is calling on decentralization in such a way that to focus on strengthening the course skills, flexibility to work and they are ready to work and let them decide and work for themselves.
AI (Artificial Intelligence) can help the students and make them catch up. AI is not a threat,” Dr. Salazar said.
PBEd was established in 2006-2007 and they were among the first who urged for the implementation of K to 12.
The Mother Tongue Law, which is just months ahead of the K to 12, where the students must study in the language they know and understand.
On the DepEd order on the Mother Tongue Law, Dr. Salazar said “I think the locality must be given the opportunity to decide.”
PBEd Executive Director Hanibal Camua said “Our learners are raising for time. We need to put focus on education.”
The Mother Tongue Law is just months ahead of the K to 12.
The problem starts from 0 to 5 years old or Kindergarten or Grades 1 to 4.
He cited the EdCom 1 in 1990, K to 12 passage in 2013 and the 2nd Congressional Education Commission.
Over the past decades and concerted efforts are ongoing. However, our learners’ performance continue to decline.
“Our teachers are not capacitated to. Our graduates cannot find jobs, while industries can’t find the right talent,” Camua said.
“The future of our country hinges on how we prepare our education,” he added.
“More than the budget for education, it is better to know where it is allocated,” Camua said.
The common goal of going to school is to have a bright future or a good job and it needs a whole of society approach where private and public complementary can address the backlog of classrooms.
Camua added that the learners should be taught on the proper use of the social media platforms.
Decongesting the senior high schools has been undertaken on more than 800 schools by DeEd where there is an immersion of 600 hours supervised by industry leaders.
Reading, comprehension and mathematics have to be strengthened.
Samantha Uichico, PBEd Senior Program Manager, said that the country needs to have 47,000 assessors to address the “backlog”.
“The education crisis is the result of our decades of neglect,” Gomez said.
9 out of 10 learners can’t understand simple text. 62% of teachers teach outside specialization.
Clarisse Gomez, PBEd Senior Program Manager, cited the cases of Myra Dagdagen, a Grade 11 STEM, Justine Agustin, a senior high school principal, and Winniefreta Domenez.
Likewise, Jonald Macrohon, from Zamboanga City.
“Learning from high school to college is rushed and pressured,” Gomez said.
“With EdCom 2 ending soon, we may lose the momentum,” Camua said, adding that “national policy must set the direction.”
We need to invest in education. EdCom2 will soon end.
We need to institutionalize the Local School Board
We need to realign TVET and High Educational Institute.
PBEd Chairman Ramon del Rosario, Jr. said that
“Never let a good crisis go to waste,” he quoted the late British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. ###

Kamanggagawa Files Bill to Abolish Provincial Wage Rate System, Pushes 10 Landmark Labor Measures on First Day of 20th Congress

     

QUEZON CITY - On the opening day of the 20th Congress, Kamanggagawa Partylist, led by labor leader and first-time lawmaker Rep. Eli San Fernando, filed eight landmark bills and two major house resolutions to kick off an aggressive legislative campaign for labor justice, wage equality, and dignified work for all.

"These bills are more than ink on paper. They represent the decades-long struggle of workers to be seen, heard, and protected. Today, we take our fight from the picket line to the halls of Congress," said Rep. Eli.

At the forefront of Kamanggagawa's agenda is the National Minimum Wage Act, which seeks to abolish the provincial wage system and establish a single, unified minimum wage nationwide. Anchored on "equal pay for equal work," the bill includes a five-year transition to align regional wages and abolish Regional Wage Boards, with their functions absorbed by a strengthened National Wages and Productivity Commission.

"No worker should earn less simply because they were born or live in a different region. Wage justice cannot wait any longer," Rep. Eli San Fernando said.

In addition to the National Minimum Wage Act, Kamanggagawa also filed the following pro-worker bills and resolutions:

• Expanded Sick and Vacation Leave Act - Grants all workers, regardless of employment status, a minimum of 10 paid sick days and 10 paid vacation days per year.

Abolition of Labor-Only Contracting - Repeals Articles 106-109 of the Labor Code to end labor-only contracting schemes that strip workers of job security and benefits.

Repeal of Assumption of Jurisdiction (AJ) - Eliminates the AJ power of the Labor Secretary, which has been used to suppress strikes and union actions.

• Micro and Small Enterprise (MSES) Subsidy Program - Creates a permanent subsidy program offering wage support, rent aid, and tax incentives to help small businesses retain workers without resorting to unfair practices.

• Resignation Pay Act - Provides fair resignation pay to private sector employees who voluntarily resign under justifiable conditions.

Strike Rights for Government Workers - Repeals Section 28(c) of the Civil Service Law to lift the blanket ban on strikes by public sector employees.

• Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers - Refiles a comprehensive bill ensuring fair compensation, security of tenure, legal protection, and career support for over 250,000 BHWs nationwide.

House Resolution on Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) Workers in Government - Calls for a congressional inquiry into the widespread and exploitative use of JO/COS work arrangements that deny government workers regular status and benefits.

House Resolution on Gig Workers' Rights - Seeks an investigation into the illegal dismissal and non-regularization of gig economy workers, including riders and delivery workers, despite Supreme Court rulings recognizing them as regular employees.

Rep. Eli also clarified that the ten measures filed today are just the beginning. Kamanggagawa Partylist is drafting additional legislation targeting the needs of seafarers, private hospital workers, farmers, fisherfolks, construction workers, security guards, and others who remain at the margins of labor protection.

"The 20th Congress marks the start of a relentless fight to secure dignity, protection, and justice for all Filipino workers. Manggagawa sa ospital, sa barangay, sa palengke, sa pabrika, sa probinsya-we will ensure that this Congress works for you," declared Rep. Eli.

For questions and clarifications, kindly coordinate with Yves Garcia at 0917 135 9203.

United Sectors Call for House Speaker Romualdez’s Resignation in Quezon City Media Forum

 

Quezon City, June 19, 2025 — In a bold and unified move, a newly formed coalition dubbed "Kongreso ng Bayan" held a media conference this morning at Max’s Restaurant, Quezon Memorial Circle, calling for the immediate resignation of House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

The group, composed of leaders from various sectors including religious communities, indigenous groups, Muslim organizations, lawyers, business leaders, transport unions, overseas Filipino workers, retired military personnel, and concerned citizens, presented a collective statement titled: “Resign, Speaker Martin Romualdez, Now Na!”

According to the organizers, Speaker Romualdez has "lost the moral and political credibility to lead the House of Representatives," citing allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and failure to prioritize the needs of the people amidst ongoing economic and political challenges.

Spokespersons from the different sectors took turns addressing the media, stressing the urgent need for ethical and accountable leadership in Congress. “We can no longer tolerate silence and inaction in the face of worsening poverty, injustice, and elite-driven politics,” said one representative from the religious sector.

The group emphasized that “Kongreso ng Bayan” is not affiliated with any political party but is a grassroots-driven alliance advocating genuine reform and people-first governance.

Calls for transparency and accountability echoed throughout the event, with participants urging the public to remain vigilant and demand better leadership. The group announced plans for nationwide consultations, mobilizations, and the submission of a formal petition to Congress in the coming weeks.

As of writing, Speaker Romualdez has not issued a response to the call for his resignation.

1980s Marcos Loyalists Withdraw Support from Bongbong Marcos, Declare Full Support for FPRRD and VP Sara Duterte

 The 1980s Original Marcos Loyalists, formally announce a major shift in our political stance. After decades of unwavering support for the Marcos legacy, we are officially declaring:

(1) Our Withdrawal of Support from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., and

(2) Our Full Support for Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (FPRRD) and Vice President Sara Duterte.

The  group, composed of veterans who stood by the Marcos family through the most critical moments of history, has come to this difficult but necessary decision after assessing the current state of national leadership. While we once placed our trust in President Bongbong Marcos to uphold and continue the legacy of his father, we are now deeply disillusioned. His administration has not met the expectations of strong, decisive governance, nor has it prioritized the needs of the common Filipino.

In contrast, the leadership of Former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte exemplifies the kind of courage, discipline, and firm action that our country urgently needs. FPRRD’s administration was marked by real change — infrastructure development, anti-drug campaigns, and peace efforts — while VP Sara continues to show strong and pragmatic leadership.

This declaration reflects our renewed commitment to a vision of leadership that serves the people with integrity and strength. We are calling on all fellow Marcos loyalists and patriotic Filipinos to reflect, reassess, and stand with us in support of the Duterte leadership.

This is not just a political statement — it is a stand for the future of our nation.

Mabuhay si FPRRD at VP Sara Duterte! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

Eight (8) Areas of the Election Results that are VERY DISTURBING

 

Below is the summary of observations and findings by the Alyansa ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan (ANIM) and the Church Leaders Council for National Transformation (CLCNT).

1) All the Election Returns (ERS) from the precincts nationwide were NOT SENT DIRECTLY to PPCRV, NAMFREL, and the Media, but were SENT FIRST to an intermediary server, the DATA CENTER 3, that consolidated the election returns from the precincts before they were sent to PPCRV, NAMFREL, and the Media. This was in violation of Comelec's own Comelec Resolution 11098, Annex B (ACM Operation Procedures, 13 Dec 2024) where it was clearly stated that when the "START TRANSMISSION" button of the ACM at the precinct is MBOC (city/municipal), Central tapped, the transmission of the ERs will proceed to the following servers - Server, Citizen's ARMM Server 1, Citizen's ARMM Server 2, Media Server, Dominant Majority Server, and Dominant Minority Server. DATA CENTER 3 SERVER was not listed as among those to receive ERs from the ACMs. DATA CENTER 1 is an illegal, unlawful server.

2) Comelec, thru its Data Center 3, was the only one that performed the consolidation of all election returns from precincts nationwide, without the presence or participation of PPCRV, Namfrel, and the Media.

3) There was a long delay before Comelec, thru its Data Center 3 Server, released the first batch of the consolidated election results data, in the format agreed by the parties, to PPCRV, Namfrel, and the Media. According to Eric Alviar, Namfrel Secretary General, the delay was around 2 hours from the closing of voting period. What really happened during those 2 hours when the PPCRV, Namfrel, and the Media were blind as to the election results from precincts nationwide, when only Comelec had exclusive access and control to the results?

4) The Comelec, thru Data Center 3, merely supplied PPCRV, Namfrel, and the media with the consolidated election results data from precincts nationwide, which the latter used for their respective TALLIES of election results. Comelec was the ONLY source of the COMPLETE election results data from precincts nationwide. The PPCRV, Namfrel, and the media did not have any other independent source of the complete election results from precincts nationwide apart from the ones supplied by Comelec.

5) A vote discrepancy of around 5 million votes was discovered by Rappler and other media teams. Comelec said it was due to duplication in the transmission of some election returns. But the Comelec was the ONLY ONE who conducted the "cleaning" or "paglilinis" process of the vote discrepancy. It deleted around 5 million votes. PPCRV, Namfrel, and the media were not present or involved in the clean-up process. Thereafter, Comelec merely supplied to PPCRV, Namfrel, and the media the cleaned or corrected data files.

6) Thousands of voters complained that their VVPATS or voter's receipts did not reflect the list of candidates they voted for. May nadagdag. May nabawas. Many voters also complained that the ballots issued to them were pre-shaded, or where the names of certain candidates were already shaded. Comelec still has to issue the official data of the total numbers of these complaints.

7) In the 2019 midterm elections, a total of 1,170,331 official ballots had overvotes. Meaning, 1,170,331 voters were disenfranchised in the 2019 election. In this 2025 midterm elections, Namfrel reported that there was 17,028,780 overvotes. Namfrel said that from 2010 to 2022 elections, the overvotes averaged only at 1.5% to 2.5%, but for this 2025 election, the overvotes reached 29.89%. Should this be a cause for serious concern for all of us?

8) The Comelec changed the program installed in the ACM and used an "updated" version 3.5.0 that did not go through the local source code review and independent certification by IT experts and organizations, as required by law (Sec 12, RA 9369). Comelec made the change without notice to the public, without explaining why it had to "update" the program, and what changes were made in the updated version.

Forum Highlights Quiboloy’s Platform and Transport Issues at Kamuning Bakery Café

 

Quezon City — The historic Kamuning Bakery Café once again served as the vibrant venue for public discourse, hosting a timely forum that tackled pressing political and transportation issues. Held at the café’s iconic location on Judge Jimenez Street corner K-1st Street, Barangay Kamuning, the event drew members of the media, civic leaders, and concerned citizens eager to hear from key national figures.

The forum featured two prominent speakers: Atty. Israelito Torreon, spokesperson for senatorial aspirant Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy, and Mr. Ariel Lim, national president of the National Public Transport Coalition (NPTC). The discussion was moderated by National Press Club (NPC) Director Benedict Abaygar, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas and engaging dialogue.

Atty. Torreon took the floor first, presenting the platform and plans of Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy, who has recently declared his intention to run for a seat in the Senate. According to Torreon, Pastor Quiboloy’s platform centers on moral governance, national discipline, and socio-economic reforms aimed at uplifting the lives of ordinary Filipinos. Torreon emphasized Quiboloy’s commitment to addressing poverty through agricultural development, job creation, and strengthened social welfare programs.

"Pastor Quiboloy believes that true change begins with moral transformation," Torreon said. "His platform is not only about infrastructure and policy but also about instilling discipline and ethical responsibility among leaders and citizens alike." Torreon also addressed the controversies surrounding Quiboloy, stating that these should not overshadow the aspirant’s legislative agenda and his vision for national progress.

Shifting the spotlight to transportation, Mr. Ariel Lim delivered an impassioned talk on the state of road safety, the surge of road rage incidents, and the myriad transport issues facing the country today. As head of the NPTC, Lim has long been an advocate for better transport policies and stronger enforcement of traffic laws.

"Our roads have become battlegrounds, not only for space but for basic respect and human decency," Lim declared. He called for comprehensive reforms that go beyond punitive measures, advocating for driver education, mental health support for public utility vehicle drivers, and the modernization of transport infrastructure to ensure safety for all road users. Lim also touched on the urgent need to resolve chronic traffic congestion, which he described as "an economic and social cancer draining the productivity of our people."

The forum provided an open floor for questions from the media and the public, sparking lively exchanges on both political and transport-related matters. Director Benedict Abaygar of the National Press Club skillfully steered the conversation, allowing both speakers to elaborate on their points while encouraging diverse perspectives from the audience.

The event at Kamuning Bakery Café not only underscored the importance of public engagement in national issues but also reinforced the role of such forums in fostering informed debate. The café, known for its historical significance and commitment to free speech, proved once again to be a fitting venue for dialogue that bridges political, civic, and grassroots concerns.

Attendees lauded the forum for bringing to light the overlapping challenges of governance and public service, from legislative platforms to everyday transport woes. As the country inches closer to election season, forums like these are expected to play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and guiding voter decisions.

With the spirited exchange of ideas and solutions, the Kamuning Bakery Café forum set the tone for more discussions to come, reaffirming the need for collaborative efforts in addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges.

TOKYO GAME SHOW 2025 HOLDS SUCCESSFUL INTERNATIONAL BRIEFING IN MANILA

 

Manila, Philippines — The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2025 made a significant stop on its global tour by successfully hosting its 9th International Briefing at F1 Hotel Manila, Bonifacio Global City, last April 11, 2025. This exclusive event marked the continued efforts of TGS to deepen engagement with global gaming communities, particularly in Southeast Asia. It offered exciting previews into what the gaming world can expect at TGS 2025, happening September 25–28, 2025, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

Organized by the Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) and co-organized by Nikkei Business Publications, Inc., the Manila briefing gathered key stakeholders, media, content creators, and indie developers to explore upcoming opportunities at this year’s Tokyo Game Show.

Spotlight on Indie Developers: Selected Indie 80 & SOWN

One of the main highlights was the unveiling of the “Selected Indie 80” initiative, which offers 80 indie game developers worldwide the chance to exhibit for free at TGS 2025. This includes:

• Complimentary booth spaces
• PCs and monitors
• Interpretation support

Eight standout developers from this group will also be selected to present during the prestigious Sense of Wonder Night (SOWN)—a global stage celebrating innovation and originality in indie games.

Introducing the AI Technology Pavilion

TGS 2025 will also debut its newest feature: the AI Technology Pavilion, which will showcase the future of game development through cutting-edge tools and solutions. From AI-assisted game design to virtual companion technologies, this pavilion reflects the industry's evolving landscape.

Business Matchmaking and Expanded Global Outreach

Business opportunities are also front and center, with expanded on-site and online Business Meeting platforms available during the event’s Business Days (September 26–27). TGS continues to bridge international developers, publishers, and buyers with powerful networking tools.

Calling All Content Creators: TGS Influencer Program

TGS 2025 is inviting content creators worldwide to apply for the “Official Influencer From Overseas” program. Selected influencers—especially from countries like the Philippines—will receive exclusive access and perks, including free accommodation in Japan during the event.

Sustaining Growth Through Innovation: Highlights from the 35th MEPI Excellence Awards Night at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel

Sustaining Growth Through Innovation: Highlights from the 35th MEPI Excellence Awards Night at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel

The 35th MEPI (Marketing Educators and Practitioners International) Excellence Awards Night, held at the prestigious EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, was an evening of celebration, recognition, and forward-looking innovation. This year’s theme, Sustaining Growth Through Innovation, reflected the dynamic spirit of the marketing and business sectors, focusing on how innovative strategies, leadership, and creativity contribute to long-term success. With a gathering of the brightest minds in the marketing industry, the event showcased exceptional leaders, top performers, and new members who are shaping the future of marketing and business in the Philippines and beyond.

A Night of Celebration and Recognition

The grand ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La Hotel was filled with excitement and anticipation as professionals, educators, and practitioners from the marketing world gathered to recognize excellence and innovation. The evening began with a warm welcome from MEPI leadership, who emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting and advancing the fields of marketing, education, and professional practice. As the night unfolded, awardees were celebrated for their achievements in various categories that recognized leadership, strategy, and innovation in different facets of business.

Among the most highly anticipated segments of the evening were the awards for Top REP (Regional Executive Professional), Top DSM (District Sales Manager), Top NSM (National Sales Manager), and Top PM (Product Manager). These categories highlighted the individuals who have excelled in their roles and demonstrated exceptional skills in driving growth through innovative approaches to marketing, sales, and product management.

Top REP: Excellence in Regional Leadership

The Top REP award was presented to a regional executive who exhibited extraordinary leadership in driving market expansion and sales in their designated territory. This individual’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions, craft innovative marketing strategies, and lead a high-performing team earned them the top honor. Their focus on cultivating strong relationships with clients and understanding regional market dynamics were key factors in their success. Their innovative approach to localizing campaigns and leveraging regional insights to boost business growth truly made them a standout leader in their field.

Top DSM: Excellence in Sales Leadership

The Top DSM award recognized a District Sales Manager who displayed exemplary leadership in managing and motivating a sales team to achieve exceptional results. This year’s recipient stood out for their commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Their innovative sales strategies, including the integration of data analytics and customer feedback loops into their sales processes, were instrumental in driving sustained growth for the organization. The award highlighted the importance of visionary leadership and the role of sales managers in adapting to an ever-changing business environment.

Top NSM: National Excellence in Sales Strategy

The Top NSM award was given to a National Sales Manager who demonstrated exceptional expertise in shaping national sales strategies and achieving nationwide growth. Their success was built on a foundation of innovative marketing and sales techniques that were tailored to diverse market segments. This leader’s focus on creating long-term relationships with key stakeholders, paired with their ability to leverage cutting-edge technology and data analytics, led to outstanding results across multiple channels. The award underscored the importance of strategic thinking and innovation in national-level sales management.

Top PM: Pioneering Product Management

The Top PM award celebrated an individual who demonstrated exceptional talent in managing the lifecycle of products from concept to market. The recipient’s innovative product management strategies were driven by a deep understanding of consumer needs, market trends, and emerging technologies. By introducing new products that resonated with customers and helped the company capture new market share, the winner demonstrated how innovation in product development can lead to sustained business growth. Their ability to work cross-functionally with teams to bring new ideas to life was a crucial element of their success.

Induction of 2025 MEPI Officers, Trustees, and New Members

The evening also marked the induction of the 2025 MEPI officers, trustees, and new members. This annual tradition is a significant moment in MEPI’s ongoing mission to foster excellence in marketing education and practice. The induction ceremony was a testament to the continued growth and evolution of the organization, as new leaders with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas were welcomed into the future.

8th Nation Builders & MOSLIV Recognition lay down to Hail Sustainability Winners

 

PARAÑAQUE, Philippines – The mostly awaited 8th Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards, a distinguished event celebrating sustainability and social responsibility, is scheduled to take place on March 21, 2025, at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila. This prestigious ceremony will bring together key figures from various sectors, recognizing individuals, organizations, and companies that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to sustainability, governance, and social responsibility. The event promises to be a night of celebration, innovation, and insight, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing journey toward a more sustainable future.

The Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards, organized by Sustainability Standards, Inc., has become one of the most prominent events in the Philippines, honoring individuals and groups making meaningful contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Since its inception in 2018, the awards have gained considerable recognition, with over 800 honorees from diverse industries receiving accolades for their efforts to address climate change, promote corporate social responsibility (CSR), and advance sustainable practices across the globe.

This year’s ceremony is expected to be one of the most memorable yet, with more than 1,000 esteemed guests anticipated to attend. The event will feature distinguished awardees from various sectors, including government, business, and civil society. The honorees will be celebrated for their leadership and innovation in driving sustainable initiatives that create lasting, positive impacts on society and the environment. The event will not only highlight individual accomplishments but also reinforce the collective efforts being made by different sectors to build a more sustainable and equitable world.

One of the major highlights of the 8th Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards will be the participation of international guests, including U.S. Senator Shelly V. Calvo, who will serve as one of the keynote speakers. Senator Calvo has been an advocate for environmental sustainability and global governance. Her presence at the event underscores the international importance of the awards and the shared vision of countries working together toward a sustainable future. She will share her insights on the global movement toward a more livable world, emphasizing the need for continued commitment to sustainability on both a local and global scale.

Sustainability Standards, Inc. has been at the forefront of organizing the event, continuing its mission of recognizing and honoring those who have led the way in sustainability. The organization’s efforts align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address the world’s most pressing issues, such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. As part of the awards, the organization recognizes efforts to meet SDGs and works to encourage future generations to uphold sustainability values.

The awards encompass several categories, including those for environmental conservation, climate action, social responsibility, and governance. Past honorees include business leaders, government officials, and individuals who have dedicated their careers to promoting sustainable practices, reducing their carbon footprint, and fostering more inclusive communities. The event has proven to be a powerful platform for bringing together thought leaders and changemakers who are not only experts in their fields but also committed to making a tangible difference in the world.

Since its first edition, the Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards has consistently highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving sustainability goals. In addition to honoring individuals and organizations, the event also serves as an opportunity to showcase innovative projects that aim to address global environmental challenges. By recognizing these initiatives, the awards inspire others to take similar action and contribute to building a more sustainable and inclusive future.

This year’s event promises to be a true celebration of sustainability and progress, with the continued participation of key industry players and advocates. The 8th Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards will not only recognize past achievements but will also set the stage for future efforts in driving positive change. As the world faces increasingly complex challenges related to climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion, the role of these sustainability champions has never been more critical.

The 8th Nation Builders & MOSLIV Awards stands as a testament to the growing recognition of sustainability as a central pillar of global development. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and responsibility, the event serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the future. By honoring those who have made extraordinary contributions, the awards reinforce the importance of sustained action to build a better, more sustainable world for generations to come.

As the ceremony approaches, excitement continues to build, and anticipation grows for what promises to be an unforgettable evening celebrating the champions of sustainability and the shared vision for a greener, more inclusive future.

Hail Transport PH: A New Transport Network Vehicle Service Revolutionizing Ride-Hailing in the Philippines

Hail Transport PH, a new Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS), was officially launched on Monday, March 10. During the launch, Atty. Anton Inton, Head for Community Relations and Development, explained the concept behind "Hail." He stated that the term "hail" means "to call up," emphasizing that the app’s core difference lies in its focus on providing safe and reliable transportation. He highlighted that drivers and commuters would be the key factors in the app's success.

"We have a lot of options to cater to our clients, and we aim to provide proper service, not just addressing the gaps in the market," said Atty. Inton. He also emphasized that Hail Transport PH intends to compete with market leaders by offering competitive rates. Furthermore, incentives will be provided to drivers on a weekly or monthly basis to boost their income.

As a new player in the market, Hail Transport PH is committed to complying with government regulations, including the mandatory 20% discount for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs). The company plans to provide a guaranteed income for 500 drivers initially, with a target of 10,000 drivers in the future, after they comply with all requirements and regulations.

Currently, Hail Transport PH has onboarded 500 to 1,000 drivers, and once they meet the necessary government requirements, they will be deployed. The app also includes a 24-hour monitoring system to ensure safety and prevent any potential criminal activity. Hail Transport PH will bear the cost of the 20% discount for senior citizens and PWDs, requiring drivers to register the appropriate IDs.

"Drivers who fail to comply with the 20% discount policy for senior citizens and PWDs will face disciplinary action," Inton warned. He also mentioned that there will be cash-based transactions and that options would be available for those who lack access to banking services.

Engr. Enrico Tamayo, Chief Operating Officer, added that Hail is a 100% Filipino company, targeting the NCR, Region 3, and Region IV. "We aim to coexist with the existing market rather than directly compete with it," Tamayo said. He emphasized the importance of providing drivers with sustainable income and opportunities for those with cars sitting unused in their garages. Additionally, Hail will offer a luxury service where customers can pre-book weekly or monthly rides in advance.

Tamayo also pointed out the challenges of managing luxury vehicles used by proxy drivers, especially when serving high-ranking government officials or VIPs. He stressed that the company is focused on the character and attitude of its drivers, as these qualities will directly impact the reputation of Hail. However, Tamayo made it clear that drivers would not be restricted from using other ride-hailing apps.

Michael Delos Santos, Director for Business Development, shared that the Hail app has been in development for three years. "Although we expect some glitches, we are actively working to address them," Delos Santos said. He assured that the company is diligent in monitoring its drivers to prevent any issues with "proxy drivers." The company is also exploring innovative solutions used in other countries, such as drivers keeping folding bikes in their trunks.