Monthly Archives

December 2025

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Estancia de Lorenzo Kicks Off Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting

Estancia de Lorenzo celebrated the start of the holiday season with a successful Christmas Village Lighting event, filled with festive activities and community spirit.


The day featured a vibrant “Samu’t Sari Bazaar” with non-food vendors, alongside the opening of food concessionaires and classic Filipino games. The Brass and Percussion Symphonic Band provided lively entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Ms. Leah Durante, Sales, Marketing, and Events Manager at Estancia de Lorenzo, warmly welcomed guests. A key moment was the announcement of the “Virtual Parol” Project beneficiary by Business Director Ms. Katrina Lorenzo-Casajeros, which highlighted the company’s commitment to community support.


Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Libad Dancers of Guinayang High School delivered a special Christmas dance performance. In commemoration of Estancia de Lorenzo’s 9th Founding Anniversary, an AVP showcasing the resort’s milestones and the 2024 “Pamaskong Handog” Project was presented. COO Ms. Marietta Lorenzo shared a heartfelt message of gratitude with attendees.
The evening continued with exciting raffle prizes and a song performance by Ms. Jackie, culminating in the highly anticipated announcement of the “Dine to Win” Grand Prize Winner.

The highlight of the night was the Christmas Village Lighting, which illuminated the resort and officially launched the Christmas season at Estancia de Lorenzo.

Discover more about Estancia de Lorenzo’s “Pasko Salubong” and New Year’s Eve Countdown by visiting their official social media accounts:

• Facebook: Estancia de Lorenzo-Rizal
• Instagram: @estanciadelorenzo.official
• TikTok: Estancia de Lorenzo Rizal
• Website: estanciadelorenzo.ph

Important Reminder: For your security, please conduct all transactions exclusively through our official website and verified Facebook pages.

Food, Lifestyle

Pinoy invention, The Better Vessel, sets new high standard for quality espresso at the World Barista Championship (WBC)

Photo credit Jowell Juanillo

Following an inspiring performance at the 2025 World Barista Championship (WBC) in Milan, twotime Philippine National Barista champion, Michael Harris Conlin shares his vision for the future of Filipino coffee. Conlin, who secured a remarkable 13th place overall and took home the distinction of Best Espresso in Round One of the global competition, unveils his groundbreaking invention, The Better Vessel.

Conlin’s performance at the WBC was a testament to collaboration and purpose. His signature espresso—a complex, harmonious blend of Philippine Liberica and Colombian Eugenioides, cocreated with producer Wilton Benitez— immediately captured the judges’ attention. This blend was lauded not just for its complexity, but for showcasing the untapped potential of Philippine Liberica on the world stage.

“For a fleeting instant, the world understood what my heart has been trying to say,” Conlin shared regarding his Round One success. “That cup represented people, passion, and the power of working together. It was a clear win for every dreamer who has ever believed that coffee could build bridges instead of walls.”

The core of Conlin’s vision is not a trophy, but transformation, which is embodied by his latest innovation, The Better Vessel. This revolutionary tool is designed to make high-quality espresso more approachable and consistent for both seasoned baristas and everyday consumers.

The Better Vessel achieves this by gently and selectively removing the bitterness and harshness of crema, allowing for a longer, cleaner, and sweeter shot extraction.

“The discoveries we made were never meant to stay on a stage; they were meant to ripple outward,” Conlin states. “The Better Vessel is a small step forward with a big purpose: to ring more people into the world of espresso by making it less intimidating and more inclusive.”

For the professional coffee industry, the tool promises to simplify the dialing-in process, drastically reducing waste and improving consistency. More importantly, this innovation is positioned to propel Philippine coffee culture globally by setting a new, high standard for quality espresso that is both technically flawless and universally appealing.

Conlin believes that by simplifying the science and sharing the techniques, he can lift the entire local value chain, inspiring Filipino farmers and producers to further explore and experiment without fear.

For more details about Michael Harris Conlin and The Better Vessel, please visit thevault.ph.

 

Entertainment

JADE reveals the expanded edition of their first album, That’s Showbiz Baby! The Encore

Today, the deluxe edition of JADE’s incredible debut album, THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY, is released! THE ENCORE.

In addition to JADE’s widely acclaimed rendition of the Madonna classic Frozen, the deluxe album includes eight new tracks, including the stirring “Church” and the socially aware anthem “This Is What We Dance For.”

This is THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY’s grand finale! era!

The full track list is:

  1. Angel Of My Dreams
  2. IT girl
  3. FUFN (Fuck You For Now)
  4. Plastic Box
  5. Midnight Cowboy
  6. Fantasy
  7. Unconditional
  8. Self Saboteur
  9. Lip Service
  10. Headache
  11. Natural At Disaster
  12. Glitch
  13. Before You Break My Heart
  14. Silent Disco
  15. Church
  16. This Is What We Dance For
  17. Dreamcheater
  18. Best You Could
  19. Use Me
  20. Frozen
  21. If My Heart Was A House
  22. Tar

The deluxe album is available on cd and vinyl. The CD will be released on 19th December, with vinyl released on 27th February 2026. Pre-order here: https://jade.me/THEENCOREPR

Upon its release in September, the album ‘THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY!’ had the biggest opening week for a debut album of 2025 on the Official UK Albums Chart and topped the Official Record Store Chart. The album sees JADE work with a variety of A-list collaborators on the project including Mike Sabath, Lostboy, Cirkut, RAYE and Pablo Bowman. It features the previously released singles ‘Fantasy,’ ‘Midnight Cowboy,’ ‘IT girl,’ ‘FUFN’, and ‘Plastic Box’, in addition to ‘Angel Of My Dreams’, the smash hit that catapulted JADE’s solo career into the spotlight.

Released last summer, ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ immediately turned heads on a global scale with its attention-grabbing sound and larger-than-life, hyper-stylized visual directed by Aube Perrie (Megan Thee Stallion, Harry Styles). The song to date has amassed over 107 million streams, debuted in the Top 10 of the UK Official Singles Chart and has just gone Gold in the UK. The overwhelming success of ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ helped lead to JADE’s triumphant night at the 2025 BRIT Awards, where she took home the award for ‘Pop Act’ – making her the first former girl group member to win a solo award – and delivered the stand-out performance of the night with a live rendition of the track.

‘Angel Of My Dreams’ was named the No.1 song of 2024 by DIY Magazine and a Top 10 song by The Guardian, DORK, Clash and NME. JADE was nominated for a Ivor Novello Award for ‘Best Contemporary Song’ for the track and Dazed named it video of the year.

This Summer she performed showstopping sets at major festivals including Glastonbury, Radio 1’s Big Weekend, All Points East, Mighty Hoopla, TRNSMT and the Montreux Jazz festival in Switzerland.  She also played a special full orchestral concert at the BBC Proms in Newcastle, alongside supporting Chappell Roan at her shows in Edinburgh.

JADE embarked on her first solo tour of the UK and Ireland in October. “THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY!” Dublin, Belfast, Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow, Leeds, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Newcastle, and London’s esteemed Roundhouse are all included in THE TOUR. The tour will go to the USA and Europe next year.

The Trailblazer Award at the Rolling Stone UK Awards, the 2025 Popjustice Twenty Quid Prize for “Plastic Box,” and Artist of the Year at the Artist & Manager Awards are just a few of the accolades JADE has received in the past year. Earlier this month, she won the Musician Award at Harper’s Bazaar’s esteemed Women of the Year celebration to cap off the year.

JADE’s solo music has received over 300 million streams to date.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK encourages Filipino families to create a new generation of legacy builders by turning risks into opportunities

Designed as an evening of insightful discussion and curated wine tasting, Legacy Uncorked brought together an intimate circle of the country’s most respected business leaders, wealth advisors, and high-net-worth families in a sophisticated setting at the Grand Hyatt.
In photo: (Left-right) Rozanne Magararu, Pru Life UK Chief Customer & Marketing Officer; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer; Michael Ferrer, ATRAM Group Chief Executive Officer; Rex Mendoza, Rampver Financials Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; Princess Charm Balingit, Pru Life UK Chief Investment Officer; and Julien Fey, Pru Life UK Chief Strategy Officer

A growing number of Filipino families are facing a quiet financial risk as family-owned businesses and property values rise in the country: delays in wealth transfers and estate settlement problems that may result in frozen assets, court challenges, or forced liquidation.

During Pru Life UK’s special Legacy Uncorked event at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Rex Mendoza, Chairman and CEO of Rampver Financials, stated that many families earn money but neglect to preserve it for future generations. Estate planning is a commitment to continuity and a duty to one’s heirs, not just a financial undertaking.

To address this widening gap, Pru Life UK organised Legacy Uncorked as a platform for intergenerational wealth preservation and responsible succession planning. Headlined by Mendoza, one of the country’s leading voices in financial stewardship and legacy building, the event gathered high-net-worth families, business owners, and wealth advisors to discuss estate preparedness strategies.

Mendoza delivered a compelling message on why Filipino families must prepare not just for wealth accumulation but also for wealth transfer and continuity. He mentioned that legacy is not just what one leaves behind; it’s how one prepares others to carry it forward.

Citing recent global and economic disruptions, he emphasised that unpredictability has become a permanent part of financial strategy. He added that uncertainty is now a constant—with health crises, market disruptions, and policy changes. Families who do not build emergency liquidity and succession strategies expose their heirs to unnecessary financial risk.

He also stressed that the failure of legacy is often rooted not in financial loss but in lack of generational preparation. He noted that heirs do not fail because they lack inheritance; they fail because they lack guidance. Wealth must be transferred with wisdom, purpose, and financial literacy. Mendoza also highlighted the importance of disciplined investment strategies for generational wealth, explaining that asset diversification, risk management, and sustainability must guide long-term decisions.

Legacy Planning

Pru Life UK President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty reinforced the importance of legacy planning in the Philippine context, where estate settlement remains a major barrier to preserving family wealth.

He said that many families are forced to sell land, businesses, or long-held assets simply to settle estate obligations. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy—it is for every family that wants continuity, stability, and dignity in how their assets are passed on.

At the event, Pru Life UK introduced PRUWealth 10, its flagship single-pay life insurance solution designed to support estate planning. The product enables clients to generate estate liquidity, protect assets from forced sale, and ensure seamless inheritance transfer.

PRUWealth 10 provides immediate liquidity at the moment families need it most. It prevents the loss of family legacy due to emergency property sales or loan dependency. We continue to see growing interest among discerning families and business leaders who recognise the value of structured protection.

Chakrabarty added that structured wealth transition is now a growing financial priority in the country. He said that these discussions about legacy are no longer taboo. Today’s leaders want to protect both their life’s work and their family relationships. Pru Life UK is here to support that mission with structured, future-ready financial strategies.

Chie Gatchalian, co-founder of The Sip Studio, also developed a wine appreciation journey for heritage Uncorked, signifying how legacies are purposefully created and carefully preserved—reiterating the event’s central theme: heritage must be safeguarded, not left to chance.

The event was a component of Pru Life UK’s continued dedication to estate planning advocacy and financial education in the Philippines, providing families with professional advice, solutions, and assistance to protect multigenerational wealth.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Munting Regalo, Himig ng TECNO: The Greatest Christmas Offers for as little as Php 699

Get up to P3,400 worth of Christmas gifts until supplies last when you buy from December 1 to 31

This Christmas, give the gift of love, seamless connectivity, and the best entertainment possible with a cutting-edge, AI-powered TECNO tablet, smartphone, or earbud. Complete your gift list with TECNO Mobile smartphones, which are reasonably priced, fashionable, and loaded with cutting-edge technological features. When you buy from now until December 31, 2025, you’ll receive personalized Christmas freebies.

CAMON 40 Pro 5G – ultimate snapshot photography

Pick the TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G for loved ones who love taking photos so they can take perfect snaps with One Tap Flash Snap powered by TECNO AI. The CAMON 40 Pro 5G also features 50MP SONY LYT-700C Ultra Clear Camera, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate 5G, and has an IP68/IP69 water & dust resistance rating.

The CAMON 40 Pro 5G is available in glacier white, galaxy black and titanium colors.

The CAMON 40 Pro 5G 12+256 is competitively priced at PhP14,999, while the CAMON 40 Pro 5G 8+256 is affordable at PhP12,999. Get a freebie worth up to PhP2,999 – the CAMON Premium Gift Set with capsule powerbank and speaker or TECNO Lifestyle Box – when you buy a CAMON 40 Pro 5G.

POVA 7 Ultra 5G – built for winners

Choose the POVA 7 Ultra 5G for avid gamers, and the young, edgy and futuristic generation who will love the smartphone’s full customization capability.  The POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s sleek, interstellar spaceship design features a 1.5K AMOLED display, 144Hz Refresh Rate for ultra-smooth, high-resolution gameplay, and MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor that delivers ultra-smooth performance and supports up to 120FPS in PUBGM, HOK, and MLBB. Its durable and robust battery is capable of 70W ultra charge and 30W wireless fast charging.

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G comes in Geek Black and Geek White colors. Buy the POVA 7 Ultra 5G for PhP16,999 and get freebies worth PhP 1,999 – a 5000mAh magnetic powerbank, PUBG case card, and DITO gaming SIM.

PHANTOM V FLIP 2 – sleek, iconic, stylish, pocket-sized

TECNO’s AI-enhanced PHANTOM V Flip2 is perfect for stylish and fashionable loved ones who like fun, functional and pocket-sized smartphones.

The second-generation flip smartphone features an infinity pool-inspired 3.64” ThruPool cover screen and an ultra-flat  6.9” flagship main screen. PHANTOM V Flip2 5G has a 50MP main camera, 50MP ultra-wide angle camera, and front 32MP camera, while its flip form unfolds new shooting perspectives. PHANTOM V Flip 2 has a long-lasting 4720mAh Super Battery with 70W Ultra Charge. It also supports over 2,000 apps.

Get the PHANTOM V FLIP2 for PhP26,999 and receive a JISULIFE Ultra 1 Fan or JISULIFE Pro 1s Fan worth PhP3,499.

SPARK GO 2 – lightning fast, durable and affordable

Go for the SPARK GO 2 for young family members who will benefit from having a durable smart phone. SPARK GO 2 features IP64 Dust & Water Resistance and Drop Resistance of up to 1.5m.

The SPARK GO 2 is superior among smartphones in its price segment. It features 120Hz 6.67″ Smooth Display, 13MP Main Camera, 5000mAh Large Battery, 15W Fast Charging, FreeLink, and Free Call without Signal, among others.

Purchase the SPARK GO 2 4+256 (4GB extended) for only PhP4,799; the SPARK GO 2 3+128 (3GB extended) for only PhP3,799; and the SPARK GO 2 3+64 (3GB extended) for only PhP3,399

MEGAPAD Pro – the essential AI tablet

Give a must-have Christmas present to family members who are still studying, building a career, or will enjoy entertainment anytime, anywhere. Dubbed as the “Essential AI Tablet,” the MEGAPAD Pro is packed with features but is lightweight at only 547 grams. It has a 12” 90Hz 2K Display, TECNO AI, Up to 512 GB micro SD expansion, 10000mAh Ultra Battery,  and a 6.9mm metal finish.

Surprise loved ones with the MEGAPAD Pro, priced at PhP 11,999. Get a Bluetooth keyboard worth PhP2,999 when you buy the MEGAPAD Pro within the promo period.

Sonic 1 – richer, more immersive audio experience

Gift music lovers with the TECNO Sonic 1 earphone for a truly merry Christmas. With the Sonic 1, users can enjoy up to more than two days of non-stop immersive audio experience with its up to 50 hours of battery life.

Sonic 1 features Lowest Latency with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity, first-ever free-switch design for total freedom (wear it with or without tips), and dual-mic noise cancellation for calls.

The best thing about Sonic 1? It is only PhP699.

SPARK 30 – revolutionary, lag-free, with TRANSFORMERS Edition

SPARK 30 is the perfect gift for friends and family who are Transformers fans. Featuring a special TRANSFORMERS Edition, the SPARK 30 Series has the SPARK 30 Bumblebee Edition and SPARK 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition with iconic TRANSFORMERS elements.

The SPARK 30 brings revolutionary durability with 5-year lag-free operation, performance, more immersive audiovisuals, and an incredible main camera. Transform loved ones’ lives this Christmas with the SPARK 30 for only PhP6,999. Plus get a bonus 20000mAh powerbank worth PhP1,999.

Buy this December to get a TECNO Christmas freebie

Get TECNO Mobile devices from  TECNO Mobile PH  in TikTok Shop,  TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Lazada, TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee. and TECNO Partner Retail Stores to cross them off your present list. and TECNO Partner Retail Stores across the country.

Get TECNO’s Christmas goodies when you buy between now and December 31, 2025.

For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Literacy and Disability Inclusion Advocate Zacarias Mansing Jr. Crowned Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy Among 500,000 Entries Nationwide

Cebuana Lhuillier has officially named Zacarias Mansing Jr., a passionate literacy and disability inclusion advocate, as the 2025 Happiest Pinoy. His remarkable journey of transforming personal adversity into a nationwide mission for children’s literacy resonated deeply across the country. Selected from more than 500,000 entries, his win marks one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of Cebuana Lhuillier’s pioneering advocacy.

The awarding ceremony, held last December 2 at Dusit Thani Manila, highlighted the depth and diversity of this year’s competition. Zacarias first emerged as one of the ten national category winners before advancing to the final round, where he stood alongside inspiring finalists representing youth and senior citizens, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, OFWs, members of the workforce, the LGBTQ+ community, creatives, indigenous peoples, and Cebuana Lhuillier clients.

A distinguished panel of judges—comprising public servants, media professionals, social innovators, athletes, and former Happiest Pinoy awardees—evaluated the finalists through a comprehensive process rooted in four criteria: Resilience; Optimism and Genuine Happiness; Champion of Hope and Impact; and an X-Factor reflecting authenticity.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier Inc., emphasized the significance of Zacarias’s win: “Zacarias reminds us that true strength is not the absence of hardship but the courage to lift others as we rise. His life—rooted in faith, grit, and service—captures exactly what the Happiest Pinoy seeks to celebrate: joy that transforms communities and inspires lasting change.”

Zacarias’s story is a testament to that strength. After an accident abroad in 2012 left him paralyzed, he returned home determined to turn his challenges into purpose. Guided by his DRISO values—Determination, Resilience, Inspiration, Service, and Optimism—he launched the Books for Kids Project in 2017. From his wheelchair, he has traveled to more than 300 remote public schools and reached over 50,000 students, championing literacy, disability inclusion, and hope across Negros Oriental. “Being a Happiest Pinoy is about having a spirit that trusts God in all circumstances, and hands that are always ready to reach out to those in need,” he shared.

Zacarias’s triumph is more than a personal victory—it is a powerful reminder that purpose can emerge from pain, and that one person’s resolve can ignite lasting change. His work continues to inspire communities, uplift young learners, and strengthen the movement that Cebuana Lhuillier began: a celebration of joy that endures, heals, and transforms.

 

Lifestyle

Upper Wawa Dam reiterates its critical role in reducing flooding

The Upper Wawa Dam, taken last November 11, 2025 during Typhoon Uwan’s onslaught.
The Upper Wawa Dam, a water supply dam operated by Manila Water subsidiary WawaJVCo, has once again proven its critical role in flood mitigation by significantly reducing flood impact in Marikina City and several Rizal municipalities during the onslaught of Typhoon Uwan

In addition to its primary goal of supplying a dependable water supply for the present and securing water for the future, the Upper Wawa Dam, a water supply dam run by Manila Water subsidiary WawaJVCo, has once again demonstrated its crucial role in flood prevention.

The Upper Wawa Dam is a historic infrastructure effort planned to enhance Metro Manila’s raw water supply and strengthen water security in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. As the largest new water source in over five decades, it would have a yearlong supply capacity of up to 710 million liters of water per day (MLD), helping more than 700,000 homes or nearly 3.5 million Filipinos.

During the onslaught of Typhoon Uwan, the dam significantly reduced flooding impacts in downstream communities in the Province of Rizal, including the local government units of Montalban, San Mateo, and Antipolo City.

According to WawaJVCo, in just 30 hours from Typhoon Uwan traversing Metro Manila and Rizal, the reservoir level in the Upper Wawa Dam rose by 10 meters, of which 110 mm of rainfall was recorded at the dam site.

Despite this, the Upper Wawa Dam successfully mitigated downstream flooding by 99.5%, effectively minimizing the impact in the communities surrounding the dam and storing an impressive 33.7 million cubic meters of water during the typhoon.

“The Upper Wawa Dam is more than just a water source but a lifeline for communities downstream. Its engineering design ensures that even during extreme weather events, we can protect lives and property while continuing to secure water for Metro Manila and Rizal.” said Joe Costales, General Manager of WawaJVCo.

With a watershed catchment area of 262 square kilometers (26,200 hectares) and a reservoir volume of 120 million cubic meters, the dam features innovative engineering solutions such as a stepped chute and stilling basin. These structures dissipate water energy and reduce turbulence, ensuring controlled flow downstream. By minimizing the force of released water, this design significantly lowers the risk of erosion and flooding in surrounding communities.

The Upper Wawa Dam was built in accordance with globally accepted guidelines, including those of the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), ensuring its structural strength and reliability even under extreme conditions like floods, earthquakes, and other natural hazards.

The Provincial Government of Rizal has once again acknowledged the ongoing contributions of the Upper Wawa Dam, with Montalban Mayor Ronnie Evangelista highlighting its essential role in strengthening water security and reducing flood risks.

“The Upper Wawa Dam is a game-changer for Rizal. It not only secures water for our growing population but also provides a strong defense against flooding. This is a testament to how infrastructure can serve both development and disaster resilience.” Evangelista shared.

Lifestyle

Precious Pages Showcases Filipino Literature Worldwide as the Philippines Takes the Spotlight as Guest of Honour at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair

Precious Pages and Lampara Publishing House President Segundo Matias Jr. 

The 77th Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, the biggest and most important book trade show in the world, took place from October 15–19 in Messe Frankfurt, Germany, and featured the Philippines as the Guest of Honor.

Precious Pages Corporation, one of the top publishers of romance, current, and genre fiction in the Philippines and a global representative of Filipino creativity and storytelling, was one of the honored delegates.

Throughout the week-long fair, the Precious Pages team, together with its sister firm Lampara Publishing House, met with foreign publishers and partners to pitch Filipino titles, explore new collaborations, and enhance current publishing links.

Highlighting Filipino “Kilig” and Taglish Literature

During the fair, Precious Pages and Lampara Publishing House President Segundo Matias Jr. joined a panel discussion where he shared the inspiring journey of Precious Hearts Romances—the country’s most beloved romance imprint—and how it pioneered the use of Taglish (Tagalog-English code-switching) in literature.

“Romance novels bring excitement—the kind we call kilig,” Matias said. “Readers don’t just want heavy drama; they want stories that make their hearts race. That’s what we give them—stories full of joy, longing, and the healing power of love.”

He also emphasized the company’s efforts to reach readers beyond the Philippines:

“From the very beginning, we recognized the importance of going global. Our books are now read in over 120 countries, bringing comfort to many Filipinos abroad who say our stories make them feel closer to home.”

Featured Titles Presented at the Fair

From Precious Pages 

  • Anonymousby Gypsy Esguerra
  • Blue Nightsby Nald Tabuzo, illustrated by Crisca Jallorina
  • Florante at Lauraby Reira Francisco, illustrated by Jana Dhel
  • Ibong Adarna Reimaginedby Reira Francisco, illustrated by Peachy Balais
  • Poster Boyby Herbs Navasca, illustrated by Rica Angela Padullo
  • Librong Itim Volume 6: An Anthology of Short Philippine Horror Storiesfeaturing works by Jovielyn Rivera, Ericzon Santos, Filimon Buksingero, Richmond De Guzman, Win Martinez, Reine Mendoza, and Reza Dela Vega

From Lampara Publishing House, Inc. 

  • Ako ay may Kiki (I Have a Vagina)by Glenda Oris, illustrated by Beth Parrocha
  • Ako ay may Titi (I Have a Penis)by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz, illustrated by Beth Parrocha
  • Ang Tatlong Bubwit at ang Bangkang Marikit (The Three Little Mice and the Beautiful Boat)by Will P. Ortiz, illustrated by Ghani Madueño
  • Disaster-Ready Kidsseries by Zarah C. Gagatiga, illustrated by Juno Abreu
  • Federicoby Eugene Y. Evasco, illustrated by Lui Buan
  • Maria Sibol: Ang Natatanging Batang Diwata (Maria Sibol: A One-of-a-Kind Child Goddess)by Mark Norman Boquiren, illustrated by Kata Alamon
  • Mga Batang Poz (The Poz Kids)by Segundo Matias Jr.
  • Niña Inocenteby Augie Rivera, illustrated by Juno Abreu
  • Og Uhog (The Snotty-nosed Og)by Christine S. Bellen-Ang, illustrated by John Ronnel Popa
  • Team Abangers at ang Estilong Trumpo (Team Abangers and the Trumpo Style)by Boon Lauw, illustrated by Tori Tadiar
  • How Rosang Taba Won a Raceby Dean Francis Alfar, illustrated by Ghani Madueño
  • Salu-Salo (The Gathering)by Susie R. Baclagon-Borrero, illustrated by Ibarra Crisostomo
  • Si Andoy, Batang Tondoby Mark Anthony Angeles, illustrated by Ray Nazarene Sunga
  • Znork, ang Kabayong Mahilig Matulog (Znork, the Horse who Loved to Sleep)by Mark Anthony Angeles, illustrated by Pergylene Acuña
  • Hiyas na Bubog (Sea Glass Treasures)by Eugene Y. Evasco, illustrated by John Ronnel Popa
  • Isang Mabalahibong Bugtong (A Hairy Riddle)by Eugene Y. Evasco, illustrated by Aldy C. Aguirre
  • Ang Huling Puno (The Last Tree)by Richard G. Reynante, illustrated by Jericho Moral
  • Green (Luntian)by Becky Bravo, illustrated by Elizabeth Parrocha
  • Kaligtasan para sa mga Bata (Public Safety for Children)series by Mark Norman Boquiren, illustrated by Aldy C. Aguirre
  • Lilayby Becky Bravo, illustrated by Rommel Joson
  • Family Storiesby Maita S. Salvador, illustrated by Aldy C. Aguirre
  • Mimi’s New Homeby Liwliwa N. Malabed, illustrated by Iori Espiritu

Filipino Stories Take Root Worldwide

Representing Precious Pages and Lampara at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair were:
Segundo Matias Jr. (President), Richard Reynante (Vice President – Finance), Jenette Robles (Administrative/Finance Officer), Portia Ann Legaspi (Accounting Head), Ferdinand Sevilleja and Carlo Bunayos (Marketing Directors), John Charles Almoninia (Sales Supervisor), Marky Rainer Cabalteja (Online Manager), Marie Anthoneth Velasco (Brand Manager), Alen Paola Mangabat (Graphic Artist), and Gloria Cipriano (Editor).

The company’s presence in the Frankfurt Book Fair marks a key milestone for Philippine publishing, underscoring the growing global awareness of Filipino authors, illustrators, and the particular voice of Philippine literature.

“Every Filipino story we bring abroad is a step toward putting our literature on the global map,” Matias said. “We want the world to see that our stories—whether romantic, fantastical, or deeply human—deserve a place alongside the best from anywhere.”

 

Lifestyle, News

Leading EV company Mober was named one of Asia’s inspiring workplaces at the 2025 ACES Awards

Mober Vice President for Brand Marketing and Communications poses for a photo upon receiving the Inspiring Workplaces in Asia award at the ACES Awards 2025 gala night held in Bali, Indonesia

Mober, the Philippines’ top green logistics provider, has been honored at the 2025 Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards, earning recognition in the Inspiring Workplaces in Asia category for its leadership in driving sustainable transformation within the country’s commercial logistics sector.

Dubbed Asia’s premier award for leadership and sustainability, the ACES Awards recognized Mober among Asia’s outstanding companies championing ESG initiatives. Mober was officially honored during the Gala Dinner and Summit on November 27, 2025 in Bali, Indonesia, for its people-driven innovation, which is directly responsible for a string of major business milestones this year. These include the launch of the Philippines’ largest commercial EV charging hub, the introduction of the country’s first fully electric tractor head, and the company’s expansion of operations to Thailand, solidifying Mober’s leadership in sustainable logistics across Asia.

Mober Founder and CEO Dennis Ng emphasizes the award’s significance in reinforcing their commitment to investing in human capital towards operational scalability and sustainable growth.

“At Mober, our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce is not just a moral imperative, but a competitive advantage that defines our market leadership. We are not just electrifying a fleet,we are humanizing the entire logistics sector and setting the new standard for sustainable transition across the region.”

Mober executives and its team members

Mober currently employs over 400 employees, including more than 200 EV drivers called Green Delivery Specialists (GDS). The Green Warriors Program is central to this strategy, equipping GDS and other employees to become sustainability ambassadors. This focus ensures Mober can maintain operational excellence as it scales its footprint. Meanwhile, the #MoveHer campaign continues to push for safer, more inclusive opportunities for women in logistics, advancing gender diversity alongside environmental responsibility.

“We are proud to be one of the first companies to prioritize carving new pathways for women to get into the logistics industry, which is traditionally male-dominated. Ensuring safe, inclusive workplaces strengthens the operational backbone of EV logistics and builds a sustainable industry for all,” said Miguel Bermundo, Vice President for People and Sustainability of Mober.

Mober is dedicated to creating a greener, more inclusive, and human-centered movement for the future of logistics in the area as it expands its electric fleet and regional presence.

To discover more about how Mober is leading the charge toward a cleaner, more sustainable future, you may visit https://www.moberdelivery.com.

For further information, visit: https://www.mober.ph 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe Coop CAREavan Offers Dingalan Students Opportunities for Education and Employment

Empowering the Future: Globe Coop CAREvan provides education and livelihood support to students and families at Dingalan Community College.

Globe Coop, the employee cooperative of Globe Telecom, is turning challenges into meaningful opportunities through its Globe Coop CAREavan initiative. Its recent visit to Dingalan Community College (DCC) provided students and families with education and livelihood support. This first leg of the project signals the beginning of an employee-driven outreach in partnership with Globe’s regional teams, offering customized programs nationwide to create long-term, community-based impact for vulnerable groups such as children with special needs, young mothers, fisherfolk, out-of-school youth, students, and indigenous communities like the Mangyan and Aeta.

To address the financial difficulties that once caused many students to stop schooling, Globe Coop introduced the Bag-to-School program, which aims to equip learners with what they need to thrive while also helping their families earn extra income. Seventeen deserving students were chosen to receive support bundles that include essential school materials along with tools that can help their households generate livelihood.

Empowering Students and Families Through Education and Livelihood

Students received Educational Support Packages containing notebooks, pad paper, pens, and pencils, helping them focus fully on learning. Families were also empowered with Globe Retailer Packages, including a basic mobile phone, retailer SIM, merchandising materials, and an initial autoload of up to ₱1,000, giving them the opportunity to start micro-retailing businesses that create sustainable income.

The initiative also featured a Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) workshop, designed to equip students with essential digital skills and strengthen their understanding of responsible online behavior. Through the program, students learned to think critically, navigate the digital world safely, and practice empowered digital citizenship, key tools for thriving in today’s connected society.

Globe Coop is about creating positive, lasting change,” said Jonalyn Aguilar, Globe Coop Board of Director. “By supporting students’ education and providing families with the tools and opportunities to grow, we’re not just helping individual students succeed, we’re helping entire communities unlock their full potential and build a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone.”

Through the Globe Coop CAREavan, Globe Coop shows how impactful programs that blend education, livelihood assistance, and digital tools can spark hope, strengthen resilience, and create pathways toward a better future. In partnership with DCC, Globe Coop is helping students gain empowerment, supporting families, and fostering stronger, more connected communities.

For more details about Globe, you may visit their official website, https://www.globe.com.ph/.