Lifestyle, News

Beyond Art and History: How the Revitalized Yuchengco Museum Supports Independent Filipino Designers

As the landmark turns 20, its newly transformed spaces offer retail and event platforms to close the financial gap for local creators

Yuchengco Museum Board of Trustees (L-R) Arch. Daniel Vicente A. Lichauco, Ms. Maria Clara A. Camacho, Ms. Yvonne S. Yuchengco (Chair), Atty. Guia Margarita Y. Santos, Ms. Jeannie E. Javelosa (Director), Mr. Paolo Y

As the Yuchengco Museum marks its 20th anniversary, it is looking ahead rather than reflecting on the past. Instead of focusing on previous exhibitions, the museum is embracing a new direction—positioning itself as a catalyst for the Philippine creative industry. Beginning today, it evolves from a traditional exhibition space into a vibrant platform that nurtures local talent and helps shape the future of Filipino creativity.

Supporting this renewed mission is an integrated ecosystem built around three reimagined platforms: the museum’s main galleries, the commercial retail space known as YShop, and YSpace, a dedicated venue for events and creative gatherings.

It was inspiring to see how the Yuchengco Museum is evolving beyond its traditional role as a cultural institution and becoming a platform that actively supports Filipino creativity and innovation. Through its reimagined galleries, YShop, and YSpace, the museum is creating meaningful opportunities for local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their work and grow their craft. I’m also happy to have learned so much about their vision of strengthening the Philippine creative sector and empowering homegrown talent to thrive.

Yuchengco Museum: The Creative Stage

The Yuchengco Museum redefines its galleries to expand how our art, culture, and creativity are told. While remaining a proud home for fine art, the museum is opening its doors wider to dedicated exhibits on design, fashion, architecture, and digital media, among other creative disciplines.

Before visitors browse products or attend a creative showcase, the museum galleries provide the necessary historical context and artistic inspiration. By bridging rich Filipino heritage with today’s creative expressions, the museum helps audiences appreciate the deep cultural roots driving modern creative work.

Yuchengco Museum Director Jeannie E Javelosa

YShop: A Marketplace Solving the Sustainability Gap

For many local designers, the steepest hurdle is economic survival. Talented creators frequently encounter a sustainability gap, where they produce exceptional work, but struggle to gain access to the retail space required to scale.

The YShop retail floor directly solves this problem. Strategically positioned in the heart of Makati’s central business district, YShop at the Yuchengco Museum provides independent Filipino brands with premium real estate without the prohibitive overhead costs of traditional commercial spaces. This marketplace allows creators to test market demand, optimize their production, and build a loyal customer base.

YSpace: A Premier Venue for Creative Experiences

YSpace at the Yuchengco Museum serves as a vibrant platform for public engagement and industry collaboration. It is a flexible event and exhibit venue for showcases, sensory experiences, and creative launches.

By bringing professionals from diverse creative industries together under one roof, YSpace provides a physical stage for partnerships, storytelling, and relationship building essential for economic growth.

The Leadership Vision

The Yuchengco Museum’s transformation stems from a deep understanding of how cultural spaces must evolve to contemporary economic realities.

“A museum’s job is no longer just to preserve culture, but to actively fund and fuel the people making it today. We are moving away from being just a repository of art, objects, and history to becoming a living workshop where local designers can build sustainable careers,” shares

With these initiatives, the Yuchengco Museum is redefining its role from a place of passive appreciation to a vibrant hub that actively contributes to the growth of the local creative industry. This renewed vision will come to life through a diverse lineup of exhibitions, creative showcases, and community-centered programs scheduled in the months ahead.

Visitor Information

The Yuchengco Museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and is located at RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenues in Makati City. For updates and inquiries, visitors may email [email protected] or follow @YuchengcoMuseum and @YSpaceattheYuchengcoMuseum on social media.

 

 

 

 

 

June 19, 2026 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 returns to inspire a new generation of Filipino storytellers

The nationwide storytelling competition opens its doors to Grades 1–6 students, championing reading, c

The spotlight is once again on young Filipino voices as Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 launches its nationwide search for the country’s next outstanding young storytellers.

Presented and organized by Lampara Books, the annual competition continues the tradition of promoting a love for reading, as well as encouraging the new generation of youth to discover the joy of storytelling through Filipino books. The contest is open to Filipino students in Grades 1 to 6 nationwide.

This year’s edition promises to be bigger and more inclusive than ever. According to Segundo D. Matias Jr., Founder and CEO of Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation, the student competition aims to reach aspiring storytellers from every corner of the Philippines through a virtual presentation format.

“We made sure that Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 would be accessible nationwide through virtual presentations, allowing interested children to participate regardless of location,” Matias shares. “This edition is particularly special because we have published many new titles over the past two years. At a time when the country is facing a reading crisis, we remain committed to ensuring that our advocacy reaches more children. Through creative storytelling, we want to make sure we provide a more enjoyable experience for everyone.”

Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 serves as a platform for nurturing literacy, imagination, and self-expression among Filipino children. Matias emphasized that storytelling is a vital skill that helps young readers develop a lasting appreciation for books, especially in an increasingly digital world reliant on algorithmic trends. “We want children to see reading not as a requirement but as an enjoyable and life-changing experience. Aside from showcasing talent, we want participants to discover that reading can be empowering.”

The program reflects Lampara Book’s long-standing commitment to promoting Filipino children’s literature and encouraging deeper engagement with stories. By inviting children to interpret and retell narratives in their voice, the competition helps them cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and confidence.

Matias adds, “Every human life is a story. Through books, children learn to see themselves, understand their experiences, and discover solutions to challenges they may face.”

Participation in Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 is free of charge, making it accessible to young storytellers across the Philippines who are eager to share their talent and passion for stories. Interested participants may register through: bit.ly/batangkuwentista2026

For inquiries and general information, interested students may send a message through Lampara Books’ official Facebook page or email: [email protected].

 

 

 

 

June 18, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News, Sports

Vermosa Green Run 2026 wants runners to acquire simple habits that will help save the plane

Every single person can make a huge impact on the environment through simple, everyday choices. From reducing food waste, saving household energy, minimizing single-use plastics and reusing containers, small collective habits help lower the carbon footprint and conserve global resources.

That’s why the fifth edition of the Vermosa Green Run on June 28, 2026 is raising public awareness about ecosystem conservation, pushing for an active lifestyle and sports development, and supporting animal welfare, a fundamental pillar of sustainability.

Lani Tan, General Manager of Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub and an athlete herself, says Green Run participants this year are made more mindful of the role they play in saving the planet. The Run wants to teach runners that being planet-friendly starts with simple habits that can easily be incorporated into training and race-day routines.

“Using reusable hydration bottles or collapsible cups, properly segregating waste, picking up litter along the route or whenever possible, and using designated disposal areas are simple habits that can easily be incorporated into training and race-day routines,” she said.

At the Run, Green Runners are encouraged to donate used plastic bottles in exchange for race perks including a Php 100 registration fee discount. The bottles will be recycled to create eco bricks that will become construction materials for future projects of Ayala Land.

This year’s race singlets, finisher shirts, and dog bandanas are made from recycled PET bottles to show that discarded plastics can be transformed into high-quality products that support active lifestyles.

“Wearing planet-friendly gear on race day is a shared badge of honor that shows we are actively investing in the preservation of the environment that sustains our active lifestyles,” Tan said.

Thousands run for a greener, leaner, brighter future at Green Run 2024

For her, the true success of the Green Run will be measured by the good habits that participants adopt long after the event ends.

“As we celebrate our fifth year, we hope to inspire a permanent shift toward mindful consumption and conscious living. Crossing the finish line should be the start of a lifelong habit of waste reduction, active recycling, and respecting outdoor spaces. We want our runners to carry this sustainable mindset back to their respective neighborhoods, workplaces, and every future race track they conquer,” Tan said.

Green Run 2026 will be held in the lush and sprawling Vermosa Estates in Imus, Cavite, with 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K race categories and a 1K Dog Run attracting runners of different fitness levels and running purpose.

More than a race, the event serves as a reminder that building a healthier planet does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it starts with choosing to go greener, one small step at a time, Tan added.

Green Run 2026 is supporting Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project and is in turn supported by Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, Wonderpaw.

For more information about Vermosa Green Run 2026 and to register, visit https://ayalaland.myruntime.com/register.

 

 

June 18, 2026 by
Lifestyle

Concepcion Industrial Corporation Showcases Filipino Innovation and Supports Nation-Building at Tatak Pinoy Expo 2026

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC) Chairman Raul “Jojo” Concepcion (fourth from right) joins government officials and industry partners during the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the DTI Tatak Pinoy initiative, signaling a shared commitment to elevating local industries.

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), a leading provider of consumer lifestyle and enterprise solutions, reaffirmed its dedication to promoting Filipino innovation through its successful participation in the Tatak Pinoy: Proudly Filipino Expo 2026, held from May 25 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Guided by the principle of “Gawang Pilipino, Para sa Pilipino,” CIC develops innovative solutions designed specifically to address the needs of Filipino households and communities. With over six decades of industry experience, the company leverages its strong understanding of the local market alongside globally recognized manufacturing practices to create products that uphold high standards of quality, performance, and reliability.

A cornerstone of this commitment is CIC’s Manufacturing Plant and R&D Center in Cabuyao, Laguna. By investing heavily in domestic manufacturing capacity, the company actively supports local employment and creates growth opportunities for Filipino workers, suppliers, and communities.

“As a company committed to building better lives for Filipinos, we support the Tatak Pinoy strategy—a meaningful platform to advance local industries,” said Raul Joseph A. Concepcion, Chairman and President of CIC. “Being a proudly Filipino company, we have always trusted in the potential, creativity, and resilience of our people.”  

At the expo, Condura demonstrated forward-thinking appliances specifically engineered for the Philippines’ climate and lifestyle demands, proving that innovation is most impactful when rooted in a genuine understanding of Filipino living.

Condura Negosyo Ref Inverter thoughtfully designed for MSMEs, and Carrier Optima .5HP Compact Inverter providing affordable cooling comfort for every Filipino.

“Through our products and pioneering efforts, we aim to create solutions thoughtfully designed for Filipino homes, while continuously supporting local industries and helping build a better future for the country,” shared Harold Pernikar, President of Concepcion Durables, Inc.

To help build a stronger and more resilient local economy, CIC has enhanced its partnerships with local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), creating opportunities for these businesses to grow alongside larger industries. This collaborative approach demonstrates the growing capability of Filipino companies to succeed and compete in the global marketplace.

Through its participation in Tatak Pinoy Expo 2026, CIC underscored its long-standing contribution to the nation’s industrial progress. As it continues to adapt to the changing needs of consumers, the company remains committed to delivering quality, dependability, meaningful innovation, and sustainable growth for future generations.

For more information, visit www.concepcion.ph.  

 

 

 

June 17, 2026 by
Entertainment

justin’s lunan exhibit officially sold out; fans still have a chance to attend through Sony Music Philippines giveaway

The immersive showcase will feature original artworks and a blind auction for charity

justin’s highly anticipated arts and music showcase, lunan, is officially sold out!

For those who missed it, don’t worry! Sony Music Philippines is currently running a promo giveaway for the fans who wish to experience the exhibit curated by SB19’s very own creative director. Interested participants may sign up through the following link: http://justin.lnk.to/lunangiveaway.

The promotional period runs until June 18, 2026 at 12 NN.

The event, which will take place at the Sari-Sari Space in Quezon City, on June 19, 2026, will bring together “justin’s visual journey, artworks from the creative minds behind dahon, and pieces from the fans who continue to inspire him.”

One of the event highlights include a blind auction, where attendees and fans can submit sealed, one-time bids for exclusive items. A portion of the revenue will be donated to select non-government organizations (NGOs) supporting environmental conservation and sustainability.

Other activities include a special performance art, plus more surprises.

On the same day, justin will drop his new single, “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The pop ballad marks another collaboration with acclaimed OPM artist Maki, who penned the track.

[PRE-SAVE LINK]

As a solo artist, justin has proven himself as a visionary creative across multiple disciplines, driven by his commitment to an advocacy of meaningful existence. He is one of the most-streamed P-Pop soloists, racking up more than 45 million streams on Spotify alone with only four official songs released to date. Beyond his individual pursuits, the charismatic multi-hyphenate is also part of the iconic P-Pop powerhouse SB19, where he takes on multiple key roles, including serving as the creative director.

justin’s “dahon” will be available on all digital music platforms worldwide beginning June 19, 2026, via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save link: https://justin.sng.to/dahon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 17, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Globe Delivers The Mandalorian & Grogu Experience to Cabanatuan Students, Empowering Future Changemakers

Globe inspires young changemakers through an exclusive Mandalorian & Grogu screening in Cabanatuan.

Globe transformed the excitement of the Star Wars universe into a meaningful experience for students in Cabanatuan by gathering senior high school and college learners for an exclusive screening of Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu. The event, part of Globe’s wider partnership with Disney, aimed to inspire Filipino youth through themes of bravery, connection, and community.

Hosted at SM Cabanatuan, the screening allowed students to enjoy one of the world’s most beloved franchises while engaging with fellow youth leaders, educators, and Globe representatives. Beyond entertainment, the event emphasized the shared values reflected in both the film and Globe’s youth-focused programs—resilience, purpose, and the importance of fostering supportive communities where individuals can grow and succeed.

The screening also introduced attendees to the Globe Student Program, which provides access to internships, scholarships, volunteer opportunities, AI hackathons, content creation initiatives, and other avenues that help students develop their talents and create positive impact within their schools and communities.

“We wanted to make the Mandalorian screening in Cabanatuan a celebration of what the youth love, stories, shared interests, and experiences that bring them together. Through this special event, Globe is recognizing the passions of students and creating a memorable moment that reflects how much we value them,” said Raymond Mancilla, Area Business Head.

The Cabanatuan leg was one of several student-focused engagements rolled out by Globe and Disney across key cities including Quezon City, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao, bringing thousands of young Filipinos closer to stories that champion courage, purpose, and belonging. Through these experiences, Globe continues to empower the next generation with opportunities that go beyond connectivity, equipping students with the support, platforms, and inspiration they need to pursue their ambitions, strengthen their communities, and become changemakers in their own right.

As Globe continues to strengthen initiatives that promote education, leadership development, and digital inclusion, it remains committed to empowering young Filipinos by providing opportunities to explore their potential, connect with like-minded communities, and pursue their aspirations. To learn more about the Globe Student Program, visit globe.com.ph/student-program.

For additional information about Globe and its initiatives, visit www.globe.com.ph.

 

 

 

 

June 17, 2026 by
Entertainment

Lola Amour, Shirebound, and Over October Lead the Inaugural Alt.chestra Concert

Three of the biggest names in modern OPM reimagine their biggest songs through sweeping orchestral arrangements and special collaborative numbers

Good things come in threes!

Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound will headline the first-ever edition of Alt.chestra, a concert series that gives selected songs a fresh interpretation through rich orchestral arrangements.

Set for August 8, 2026, at the Music Museum, Alt.chestra Vol. 1 marks the debut of an intimate live music experience that blends modern band performances with the elegance and emotional depth of a full orchestra under the direction of acclaimed musical director Ronald Tomas.

The event is presented by GNN, the production team behind celebrated, sold-out concerts DAMA (Johnoy Danao, Ebe Dancel, and Bullet Dumas), and Secrets (Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, and Kitchie Nadal).

Outside of their individual sets, Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound will also share the stage for a special collaborative number, offering a rare and exclusive moment that promises to be one of the evening’s highlights.

The three biggest bands of this generation have built loyal fan communities through years of live performances, balancing independent credibility with commercial success. Together, they represent a generation of artists whose music continues to appeal simultaneously across audiences and platforms.

Together, the three supergroups have collectively surpassed one billion streams on Spotify, alongside receiving critical recognition, numerous awards, and headlining performances at major music festivals across the country.

Tickets are now on sale through bit.ly/altchestravol1, with the following packages available:

VIP: PHP 2,400 (includes soundcheck access, poster, and post card)

Orchestra: PHP 1,500 (reserved seating)

Balcony: PHP 999 (free seating)

 

 

 

 

 

June 17, 2026 by
Beauty, Lifestyle

Cosmobeauté Philippines 2026 Opens with Record Participation, Showcasing Beauty Through Every Perspective

Cosmobeauté Philippines 2026, the country’s premier business-to-business beauty trade exhibition, officially opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, signaling a major milestone for the Philippine beauty, personal care, and wellness sectors. Running for three days, the event brings together over 250 local and international exhibitors, including six international pavilions, and is expected to welcome around 8,000 trade visitors. The exhibition continues to strengthen its reputation as the nation’s leading platform for beauty professionals, manufacturers, distributors, and key industry players.

The opening ceremony was led by Mr. Ian Roberts, Senior Vice President–Asia of Informa Markets, together with Guest of Honor Honorable Javier Miguel L. Benitez, Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental and Chairperson of the Special Committee on Creative Industries. During the ceremony, Benitez highlighted the beauty industry’s significant contribution to economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurial opportunities throughout the Philippines.

Cosmobeauté Philippines 2026 highlights the continued growth of the country’s beauty, personal care, and wellness industry, bringing together a strong mix of local and international exhibitors and industry leaders. It reflects the sector’s role in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the Philippines. The event was also an enjoyable experience, with the chance to visit different booths, discover brands, and receive freebies along the way.

This year’s edition embraces the inspiring theme: “Celebrating Beauty in Every Perspective: Inspire Innovation, Embrace Diversity, and Shape Excellence.” The theme reflects the show’s commitment to showcasing the multifaceted nature of the beauty industry, from cutting-edge product innovation and sustainable practices to inclusive beauty standards and professional excellence.

Cosmobeaute Philippines 2026 serves as a dynamic marketplace where industry professionals can discover the latest trends, forge strategic partnerships, and explore emerging opportunities across cosmetics, skincare, haircare, spa and wellness, and beauty technology sectors.

“At Cosmobeaute Philippines 2026, we Inspire Innovation, we Celebrate Diversity, and we Shape Excellence through collaboration and shared vision. Through this event we come together to explore cutting-edge trends, forge strategic partnerships, and discover solutions that will define the future of beauty in the Philippines and within the region,” said Mr. Ian Roberts of Informa Markets.

Spotlight on Local Excellence and International Collaboration

A major highlight of this year’s show is the debut of the DTI Pavilion (Department of Trade and Industry), featuring Filipino exhibitors showcasing their locally made products and halal-certified offerings. This pavilion underscores the Philippines’ growing capabilities in beauty manufacturing and its commitment to meeting international standards, particularly for Muslim-majority markets. The show also features six international pavilions, including a prominent Indonesian Pavilion, demonstrating the strong regional collaboration and cross-border trade opportunities within the ASEAN beauty ecosystem.

Three Days of Industry-Leading Content and Competition

Cosmobeaute Philippines 2026 offers an extensive programme designed to educate, inspire, and elevate industry professionals. Aside from exhibition showcase with over 250 exhibitors present the latest innovations in beauty products, ingredients, equipment, packaging, and services across all show days, there are both paid and free-to-attend seminar sessions to enhance knowledge in the industry.

Paid Conference Series:

  • Formula Care Conference– Exploring advanced cosmetic ingredients and formulation techniques
  • Farm to Jar Conference – Focusing on sustainable sourcing, natural ingredients, and the journey from raw materials to finished products

Minamata Conference by CCIP: The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc., hosts a critical session on mercury awareness and compliance with the Minamata Convention, addressing safety standards in cosmetic manufacturing.

Halal Conference: Hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry addressing halal certification standards, compliance requirements, and market opportunities for halal beauty products in the Philippines and global Muslim markets.

Professional Competitions:

  • Day 1 (17 June): Artistic Hair and Makeup Competition with the team of Pearl of the Orient Seas, showcasing creative artistry and technical skill in hair and makeup hosted by the Unified Makeup Artists of the Philippines.
  • Day 2 (18 June): Bridal Makeup Competition: The Unified Makeup Artists of the Philippines celebrates elegance and precision in bridal beauty.
  • Day 3 (19 June): Beautelympics, featuring competitive categories in aesthetics, lash extensions, and other specialized beauty services, where professionals demonstrate their expertise and technical mastery hosted by the Professional Aestheticians Association of the Philippines.

The Philippine beauty and personal care sector continues to show strong momentum, fueled by growing consumer demand, heightened interest in beauty and wellness, and the increasing presence of both homegrown and international brands. As a key contributor to the national economy, the industry generates jobs, supports entrepreneurial ventures, and contributes substantially to export earnings. Cosmobeauté Philippines serves as a vital meeting ground for industry professionals and businesses seeking to explore emerging opportunities, expand their market reach, and keep pace with changing consumer trends. With sustainability, inclusivity, and technological advancements becoming central to the industry’s evolution, trade events such as Cosmobeauté Philippines play a significant role in driving innovation and influencing the future of beauty in the Philippines and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

Cosmobeauté Philippines 2026 will take place from June 17 to 19, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.

June 17, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Abi Marquez Becomes the First Filipino to Collaborate with Hedley & Bennett

Abi Marquez wearing the Hedley & Bennett apron

Managed by NYMA Talent Management, Filipino food content creator Abi Marquez has reached another international milestone as she partners with Los Angeles-based Hedley & Bennett in the brand’s first collaboration with a Filipino creator.

Popularly known online as the internet’s “Lumpia Queen,” Abi has grown a global following by transforming Filipino cuisine into fun, approachable, and widely shared content. She now extends her passion for Filipino food into a kitchen essential designed for home cooks, creators, and food enthusiasts worldwide.

The Abi Marquez x Hedley & Bennett apron marks a meaningful first for both Abi and the brand, celebrating Filipino creativity, culture, and pride through a piece designed to be worn in the kitchen and beyond.

“This collaboration means so much to me because it brings together two things I love: cooking and sharing Filipino culture with the world,” Abi shares. “I’ve always believed that the kitchen is one of the best places to tell our stories, and I hope this apron inspires more people to cook with confidence, creativity, and pride.”

Close-up detail shot of the apron design

Hedley & Bennett is known for creating high-quality aprons and kitchen workwear trusted by chefs, restaurants, and passionate home cooks. Through collaborations that span chefs, creators, artists, fashion names, sports leagues, and pop culture favorites, the Los Angeles-based brand has turned the apron into a canvas for personality, storytelling, and craft.

Its past collaborations include collections with Disney, Superman, MLB, NFL, ONE PIECE, Bob’s Burgers, Rifle Paper Co., LoveShackFancy, Made with Liberty Fabric, Star Wars, and Friends, alongside creator-led pieces with culinary names such as Kenji Lopez-Alt, Cassie Yeung, Nigel Kabvina, Chef Adam Libby, Food My Muse, and Chef Reactions. Now, Abi brings a distinctly Filipino story to that roster as Hedley & Bennett’s first Filipino collaborator.

For Abi, the apron is more than just kitchen wear. It is a tribute to the community that has supported her from her early cooking videos to her growing presence on the global food stage. Through her content, Abi has introduced Filipino flavors to audiences around the world, using familiar dishes, playful formats, and heartfelt storytelling to make Filipino cuisine feel both proudly local and globally exciting.

Abi cooking while wearing the apron

This collaboration arrives as Abi continues to earn growing international recognition for her work as a Filipino food creator. With millions of followers across various platforms and appearances on global stages, she has become one of the most prominent voices highlighting Filipino food culture in the digital space.

The Abi Marquez x Hedley & Bennett apron reflects that journey—from home cooking to the global stage, from everyday meals to cultural storytelling, and from one creator’s passion for Filipino cuisine to a worldwide community embracing that pride.

Product shot of the Abi Marquez x Hedley & Bennett apron

FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON: FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ABI MARQUEZ, PLEASE CONTACT: Karen Tumbali | [email protected]

To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph

 

June 16, 2026 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

Enchanted Kingdom marks its 12th year of supporting Brigada Eskwela, reaffirming its commitment to education and sustainability

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the Philippines’ first and only world-class theme park, strengthened its enduring collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) as it marked its 12th year of participation in Brigada Eskwela. As part of the initiative, EK formally turned over its 15th adopted kindergarten classroom to Sinalhan Elementary School in Santa Rosa, Laguna on June 5.

Brigada Eskwela is a yearly nationwide program that brings together various stakeholders to volunteer their time, skills, and resources to help public schools prepare for the start of the academic year. This year’s campaign theme, “Bayanihan Para sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa Para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman,” reflects EK’s own Education Program, which is dedicated to creating an engaging, secure, and inspiring learning atmosphere for students.

As part of this initiative, EK tapped its maintenance team to repair and upgrade the adopted classroom’s fixtures, while artists turned the walls into a vibrant mural featuring its Storyverse characters and the rich biodiversity of Philippines, including some of the endemic species highlighted in its award-winning attraction, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY. The mural also highlighted EK’s five core values and ways to promote environmental responsibility among young learners.

In addition to this, the Santa Rosa-based theme park revitalized the school garden, Taniman Para sa Paaralan, where they cultivated a variety of vegetables and ornamental plants.

EK Chairman and President Cesar Mario O. Mamon expressed EK’s push to expand their reach in Brigada Eswela and deliver more enchanting and educational experiences through sustained partnerships and community engagement.

“As Enchanted Kingdom celebrates its 30th year, we continue to uphold our commitment to nurturing young minds as we extend our active participation in Brigada Eskwela in the years to come. We also look forward to further strengthening our partnership with DepEd and the City of Santa Rosa across their programs,” Mr. Mamon said.

The turnover ceremony was graced by Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas, along with Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) for Santa Rosa, Hereberto Jose Miranda, CESO VI; Barangay Sinalhan Chairman Ladislao Alicbusan; Sinalhan Elementary School Principal II Benjamin Ongteco Jr.; teachers; parents; and students.

In addition to these initiatives, EK enhances the guest experience through hands-on educational activities under its Education Program. Visitors can take part in these learning opportunities while enjoying the park’s iconic rides and attractions during operating hours from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM every Friday to Sunday. Beginning June 29, the park will extend its magical operating schedule, welcoming guests from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on the same days.

To learn more about this and other upcoming events, promotions, and offerings, visit Enchanted Kingdom’s official website and follow its social media pages on Facebook and TikTok (@enchantedkingdom.ph) as well as Instagram (@ek_philippines).

 

 

 

 

 

June 16, 2026 by