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PASKO NA, But still want to keep it sulit? Don’t worry, we’ve gotchu covered!

Make the most of your Christmas with good deals and convenience at your fingertips

For us Filipinos, a switch turns the moment the ber-months arrive. Christmas is a four-month (or possibly five-month) festival that marks the end of the year, not just one day.

Following Simbang Gabi, the air is warmed by the delightful aroma of puto bumbong and bibingka. Homes are brimming with Christmas enthusiasm, the streets are aglow with colorful lights, and food is quickly becoming the unavoidable, endearing focal point of every festivity. When our loved ones return home—OFWs, students, and employees—every meal together becomes a treasured, life-long family memory.

With the long list of expenses for gifts, gatherings, and decorations, Filipinos have mastered the art of the sulit celebration: maximum joy, minimum gastos. The Filipino Christmas has always been defined by diskarte (resourcefulness) and creativity: planning early, perfecting potlucks, and finding smart ways to make the season lighter on the wallet but just as full of joy. Because for us, the magic isn’t in how grand the feast is, but in how full the table feels—with laughter, love, and the people who matter most.

This Christmas, foodpanda helps Filipinos celebrate more while spending less through the PASKONA voucher, which gives up to ₱100 off on favorite dishes and essentials from beloved food spots such as KFC, Mang Inasal, Shakey’s, Pizza Hut, Popeyes, Angel’s Pizza, Kenny Rogers, Goldilocks, Pickup Coffee, and grocery partners on the app.

Beyond savings, foodpanda also brings ease and reliability to the busy holiday season—making food, gifts, and essentials just a few taps away. Whether it’s a last-minute handa, a potluck with friends, or a quick grocery run, foodpanda’s got every Filipino covered, so they can focus on what truly matters: celebrating the joy of Christmas.

Patricia Jacinto, Marketing Director of foodpanda Philippines shared that the campaign is about helping Filipinos find new ways to make the busy holiday season simpler, more affordable, and more enjoyable. “The holidays are a time for connection and celebration, but they can also be overwhelming. With foodpanda, we want to make it easier and more sulit for everyone to celebrate by bringing convenience, savings, and joy straight to their homes. We want everyone to be able to celebrate the holidays without stress,” she reflected.

It’s a straightforward dessert that serves as a reminder to everyone that Christmas magic need not equate to luxury. Good company, delicious food, and the small things that brighten life are important at times. Because it’s comforting to know that someone is there for you when you need them most, especially during the Christmas rush. “PASKONA, WE GOTCHU!” is what foodpanda is saying this time.”

Both new and returning customers can use the PASKONA coupon until December 31, 2025. This Christmas, make every event sarap-sulit by checking the Foodpanda app for updates.

 

 

 

October 17, 2025 by
Beauty, Lifestyle

CCIP and the FDA have an industry discussion during the third general membership meeting

Chamber of Cosmetic Industry of the Philippines EVP for external affairs Janina Gutierrez-Tan leads the open forum for the three FDA representatives

During its third General Membership Meeting (GMM) at the SMX Convention Center, the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) convened stakeholders in the cosmetics and personal care industries for a historic interaction with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “FDA Frontline: What’s New & What’s Next?” was the theme of the event.The Beauty + Health & Wellness Convention was also conducted during this time.

The event gave industry participants a unique chance to speak with FDA representatives directly about regulatory issues and receive firsthand information on the procedures, rules, and digital changes influencing the personal care and cosmetics business. The FDA Center for Cosmetics Regulation and Research Officer Esperanza Almenanza, CCIP President Christine Reyes, Executive Vice President for External Affairs Janina Gutierrez-Tan (JRadiance Corporation), Regulation Officer for Cosmetic and Beauty Products Ralph Christofer Manapat, and Representative Florlita Gabuna are among the distinguished speakers.

In her remarks, Reyes underscored the importance of continuous dialogue between regulators and industry players. “It’s uncommon for stakeholders to have this level of direct interaction with the FDA. This gathering demonstrates how partnership can advance the cosmetics industry while ensuring consumer safety.”

Opening the discussion with a presentation on Post-Marketing Surveillance (PMS), Almenanza outlined how the FDA verifies and monitors products through consumer complaints, routine sampling, and the review of advertisements and marketing claims across platforms.

FDA center for cosmetics regulation and research officer Esperanza O. Almenanza talks about post-marketing surveillance process at the CCIP 3rd general membership meeting

“Brands should not be intimidated when they receive a notice of non-compliance. What matters most is transparency and providing corrective and preventive actions. Compliance is a shared responsibility, not a punishment,” Almenanza said, adding that product recall protocols are preventive tools for consumer protection, with the urgency and scope depending on the level of risk involved.

Meanwhile, FDA acknowledged existing processing delays and introduced the Food and Drug Action Center (FDAC) hotline as a dedicated follow-up channel to improve communication and reduce backlogs. Moreover, new guidelines are being developed for Functional Pop Beauty (F-POP) cosmetics, with ASEAN standards serving as the foundation and certain categories potentially adopting frameworks inspired by Korea’s functional cosmetics certification.

Addressing key customs and importation issues, the FDA also clarified that it has no direct jurisdiction over the Bureau of Customs but continues to issue public advisories to assist importers. CCIP pledged to support members facing unnecessary or overlapping requirements outside FDA’s authority. FDA officials emphasized their ongoing efforts to work collaboratively with the private sector to enhance efficiency and transparency in regulatory processes.

CCIP’s function as a liaison between the business sector and regulators was reinforced by this interaction. In order to establish the Philippines as a rising leader in the global market for cosmetics and personal care products, the organization keeps promoting compliance as a catalyst for innovation, credibility, and long-term growth.

More than 180 companies in the cosmetics value chain, including producers, importers, distributors, suppliers, and service providers, are represented by the non-profit trade group CCIP. CCIP, a founding member of the ASEAN Cosmetics Association, promotes regulatory harmonization, cooperation with the government and foreign partners, and global competitiveness as the unified voice of the Philippine cosmetics sector.

To learn more about CCIP, contact [email protected]

For more information about CCIP:

Website: https://cciphilippinesinc.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chamberofcosmeticsph

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chamberofcosmeticsph

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chamberofcosmeticsph

Email address: [email protected]

 

 

October 17, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Telco Eastern Communications Launches in Calbayog City, Samar Calbayog expansion signifies Eastern’s gateway into the Samar province

Calbayog City, Samar welcomes Eastern Communications as it officially launches its reliable business internet and ICT services in the city

Eastern Communications, the leading provider of ICT solutions and telecommunications in the Philippines, has expanded its network and digital services throughout the Eastern Visayas with the official launch of its services in Calbayog City, Samar.

On October 15, 2025, the company’s signature “Via Eastern” event took place at the Baypark Hotel in Calbayog to commemorate the milestone. It brought together local business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders to discuss how Eastern is promoting digital transformation and facilitating inclusive growth in the area.

Local officials and partner organizations, including Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy, Vice Mayor Rex Daguman, and ICT Council President Nancy Lanuza, joined the Via Eastern Calbayog celebration, recognizing Eastern’s contribution to advancing the city’s development agenda and promoting technology-driven progress across Samar.

Calbayog City Mayor Hon. Raymund Uy welcomes new telco provider Eastern Communications in the city.

“It is with great pride and excitement [that I join] today’s launch of Eastern Communications, a new [telco] player in our city. We know that connection should not only be faster, but it needs to be stable with the modern digital era at this time. Congratulations to Eastern Communications and thank you for helping move our city forward,” said Calbayog City Mayor Hon. Raymund Uy.

Driving digital growth in Samar’s emerging business hub

The expansion underscores Eastern Communications’ commitment to bridging digital gaps and empowering emerging business cities nationwide. As part of its strategy to strengthen regional presence, Eastern Communications identified Calbayog as a key business city in its joint Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project, the largest submarine cable infrastructure project in the country. The PDSCN Express Route is made up of 80% undersea cables, allowing it to deliver resilient and reliable connectivity and bring world-class telecommunications services to more Filipinos.

As Calbayog positions itself to become a premier economic, ecological, and tourism center in Samar, Eastern Communications’ entry will play a vital role in building the city’s ICT backbone. The telco will provide advanced business connectivity services, including Eastern Fiber 1 shared internet and Internet Direct Service (IDS) dedicated connectivity. These solutions are designed to empower local MSMEs, agribusinesses, retail enterprises, and hospitality establishments to thrive in the digital economy.

Beyond connectivity, Eastern Communications will also offer a complete suite of ICT solutions such as Network Solutions, Cybersecurity, Cloud and Data Center Services, and Business Applications. These tools enable enterprises to enhance productivity, efficiency, and customer engagement.

Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan at the Via Eastern launch in Calbayog.

“Our expansion to Calbayog aligns with Eastern Communications’ vision to strengthen our presence across the Visayas region,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer. “By making Calbayog our entry point to reach more areas in Samar, we aim to empower local communities and businesses with resilient and reliable internet services. Through our strong connectivity and comprehensive ICT solutions, we’re committed to helping the region thrive and support the country’s digital growth.”

Eastern’s services are expected to benefit Calbayog’s key industries, starting with agribusiness, where reliable connectivity will support operations across farming, processing, and logistics. The trade, retail, and services sector will also gain from improved efficiency and business continuity through dependable internet and ICT solutions. Meanwhile, the hospitality and tourism industry will be strengthened as hotels, restaurants, and tourist destinations enhance their guest experience and digital access, helping promote Calbayog as a vibrant destination for both local and international visitors.

Eastern Communications’ “Project Maaasahan” official turnover ceremony to Pinamurolan Integrated School, providing strong connectivity to empower the next generation of leaders in Calbayog City. [From L to R:] Eastern Communications (EC) Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan, Department of Education (DepEd) Calbayog Administrative Officer V Grace Pagusan, Pinamurolan Integrated School Principal Hernan Verano, Calbayog City Mayor Hon. Raymund Uy, EC Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, EC Segment Marketing Manager Dindo Cabatingan

Eastern Communications has more than 145 years of experience, and it is still committed to providing “High Tech” and “High Touch” solutions that strengthen communities and businesses. As it keeps growing, one city at a time, the organization underlines its dedication to creating a digitally empowered Philippines where advancement and connectivity coexist.

Call 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph for additional details about Eastern Communications’ offerings.

 

 

 

 

 

October 17, 2025 by
Food, Lifestyle

Dare to Switch: LIFT Presents MassKara 2025 with a Challenge

With the launch of LIFT, Coca-Cola Philippines’ newest beverage, this year’s MassKara Festival is set to get even more spectacular with its first significant festival activation. Festival-goers can visit the LIFT booth on Lacson Street from October 17 to October 19 and participate in the brand’s renowned “Dare to Switch” initiative, which encourages people to embrace new experiences and celebrate all lifestyle modes.

To encourage everyone’s competitive nature, the booth will have a selection of challenging activities and fast-paced games. With LIFT style—bold, self-assured, and always prepared for what comes next—participants can race against the clock, surpass high scores, and earn special rewards.

Throughout the weekend, guests can also stop by to play interactive mini-games and receive complimentary samples of LIFT. The LIFT booth guarantees a lively, enjoyable stop where you can relax, play, and try new things, whether you’re exploring alone, with your team, or with your barkada.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to switch this MassKara. Stop by the LIFT booth on Lacson Street to participate in the celebration, accept the challenge, and enjoy your complimentary drink.

For news and highlights from the festival, follow LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

October 16, 2025 by
Food, Lifestyle

Try Something Different: LIFT, the New Drink for the Always-On Generation

Made for all the go-getters who need to switch modes with a refreshing boost!

Life now? There is a continuous change. You might be working hard at work or school one minute, rocking out with your group the next, and then diving into a late-night game or passion project. Because Filipinos are experts at switching modes, a brand-new beverage called LIFT has arrived in town.

The newest beverage from Coca-Cola Philippines for today’s competitors is called LIFT. This isn’t your typical pop. Like a mindset in a can, LIFT is a brand-new, energizing beverage designed to fit your flow, hustle, pace, and relaxation. It’s for the driven individuals who are constantly on the go, be they professionals seeking a promotion, students taking charge of a new semester, or artists developing side projects.

Made with Vitamin B3, Zinc, and Caffeine, LIFT is more than a quick pick-me-up. It’s crafted to help you lock in and stay sharp, giving you the focus and extra push to own your every mode. It’s not about chasing energy; it’s about owning your (“LIFT”) mode. The newest, coolest drink in town isn’t here to play it safe. It’s bold, versatile, and built for multi-hyphenates—people who run the show in different arenas and still find time to show up.

“With LIFT, we’re giving today’s generation a drink that’s as adaptable as they are,” said Frenissa Mae Lagman, Frontline Marketing Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “It’s for people who play different roles and still find a way to make every moment count. LIFT is here to help you get int your zone and make a statement with every step you take.”

Actor and performer Ruru Madrid joins the Coca-Cola Philippines team at the official launch of LIFT last August 9 in Bacolod City.

Leading the charge is Ruru Madrid—actor, performer, and a true multi-mode player. Whether he’s on set, on stage, or just hanging out with friends, Ruru embodies the “LIFT” Vibe: always ready, always in motion, and always bringing his A-game.

Use LIFT to switch up your mode, whether it’s study, hustle, gaming, or barkada. At sari-sari stores around Western Visayas, have your first taste for just PHP 11 SRP.

Are you prepared to face what is ahead? Have the courage to use LIFT.

Interested in more stories about “LIFT” Mode? Visit https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en or join the conversation by following us on Facebook and Instagram. #LIFTModeNaYan

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

October 15, 2025 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

The secret to innovation: Casio and Lyric collaborate for official distribution in the Philippines

Through an exclusive partnership, Lyric becomes the home of Casio’s most advanced digital pianos and keyboards– bridging innovation and artistry

From left to right: Bel Sayson, General Manager of Lyric; Kazunori Yamagishi, Casio Manager for Southeast Asia; Maisie Anne Cristobal, Lyric Vice President; (back) Christopher Cristobal, Lyric Business Development Manager; Ayman Linzag, UST Conservatory of Music – Piano; Alma Joy Cristobal, Lyric President; and Kai Honasan, Lyric–Casio Ambassador

In the Philippines, Casio digital pianos and weighted portable keyboards are now exclusively distributed by Lyric, the biggest network of musical instrument stores in the nation.

Through Lyric’s 24 retail locations, a large number of third-party dealers, and its website, www.lyric.ph, the collaboration between two titans of music equipment brings Casio’s internationally recognized digital piano innovations—such as the Celviano, Privia, and Casiotone series—to Filipino musicians and enthusiasts across the country.

A new era of partnership

The collaboration marks a landmark development for both brands, united by their shared mission to make high-quality musical instruments accessible to all levels of musicians.

“Lyric has always been a fan of Casio for the longest time with their unique products addressing many markets,” said Zorobabel Sayson, General Manager of Lyric. “We were fortunate to be given an audience with the people behind Casio Southeast Asia, particularly Messrs. Yamagishi and Ogawa-san. Lyric’s strength—with 24 of our own retail stores and numerous dealers nationwide—is perfect to distribute Casio, and we are glad that they equally saw the big potential of this partnership.”

With this agreement, Casio’s distribution and representation in the Philippines are now officially under Lyric, ensuring that musicians and potential consumers get to experience Casio’s exceptional quality with comprehensive service, local availability, and technical support.

Casio’s signature sound and innovation

Casio has long been celebrated for its technological excellence and authentic musical experience. The brand’s Celviano Grand Hybrid series, developed in collaboration with legendary piano maker C. Bechstein, bridges the best of acoustic tradition and digital innovation. It offers the touch, tone, and response of a concert grand piano enhanced with cutting-edge sound technology.

Meanwhile Casio’s Privia series redefines performance and portability for professionals and studio musicians, with special features like seamless Bluetooth connectivity and an authentic hammer-action feel in a sleek, lightweight form. For beginners and hobbyists, the Casiotone and CDP series deliver powerful sound, expressive dynamics, and unique functions such as pitch bend wheels and bundled stands, making them ideal choices for learning and performance.

Sayson added, “This is a great deal for us at Lyric as Casio is considered the top brand for digital pianos and keyboards in many countries across the globe. Now is the perfect time to aggressively market Casio in the Philippines, starting with this official launch.”

Shared vision

The partnership reflects a natural alignment between two brands that both value innovation, craftsmanship, and musical empowerment. “Lyric and Casio share the same commitment of creating and providing new value keyboards through innovation,” said Alma Joy Cristobal, President and CEO of Lyric. “Casio’s focus on advanced technology contributes to developing and upgrading musical skills and talents of Filipinos. Our goal is not only to inspire creativity but also to elevate musical expression.”

Alma Joy Cristobal also highlighted Lyric’s mission to support Filipino musicians through accessibility and outreach. “We have always supported Filipino musicians by providing free use of instruments and gadgets during events, especially in areas where such resources are limited. With the Casio Grand Hybrid piano alone, it is now possible to bring the experience of a grand piano anywhere, plus it’s easy to transport for events.”

Casio now available in all Lyric stores and online

Beginning this quarter, Casio’s full range of digital pianos and keyboards will be showcased and available for hands-on experience at all Lyric retail locations nationwide. Customers can check out demo units, attend workshops, and purchase directly in-store or through Lyric’s online platform at www.lyric.ph.

“Any musicians or music enthusiasts of Casio digital pianos and keyboards can purchase Casio latest models in any of the 24 Lyric stores,” Cristobal noted. “Everyone is welcome to visit any Lyric stores located at various mall and store locations.

Championing Filipino talent

To strengthen its engagement with the music community, Lyric has also begun partnering with prominent Filipino artists to showcase Casio’s versatility across demos, genres, and generations.

Lyric recently signed classically trained pianist and indie folk-pop artist Kai  Honasan as one of its endorsers for the Lyric and Casio collaboration. Cristobal revealed, “We are aligned with the direction of tapping local Filipino artists to showcase Filipino musical talents. More ambassadors coming… young and young at heart.”

Shaping the future of music

This partnership between Lyric and Casio shows how music becomes more accessible to Filipinos. It’s inspiring to see two respected brands working together to bring quality instruments closer to both professionals and beginners. As someone who values creativity and expression, I see this as an opportunity for more people to explore their musical potential and experience the joy that music brings.

“Casio‘s music business is evolving digital technologies related to sound,” Cristobal concludes. “Together, we envision the future of a more technology-driven keyboard that addresses the needs of the ever-evolving trends and new music generations.”

Casio digital pianos and weighted, portable keyboards are now available at all Lyric stores nationwide and online via www.lyric.ph.

 

 

October 15, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

The first-ever online single-pay traditional endowment plan is introduced by Pru Life UK

PRULove Wealth Direct, the first single-pay traditional endowment life insurance product on the market that can be purchased online, is introduced by Pru Life UK. The company’s goal to simplify and make financial solutions more accessible for Filipinos while meeting their demands for protection and financial rewards is reflected in this innovation.

The new medication is solely available on PRUShoppe.com and may be bought online without requiring physical proof or medical exams. In addition to a complete refund of the premium at the conclusion of the seven-year term and 125% of the single premium as life insurance coverage, it offers guaranteed net annual cash payouts for seven years that are equivalent to 4% of the single premium.

“PRULove Wealth Direct opens doors for individuals who wish to secure their future but face barriers like limited time, restricted access, or insufficient resources,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer at Pru Life UK. “It is a straightforward solution that enables more Filipinos to make most out of life and prepare for key milestones—through a seamless online purchase experience.”

“This streamlined digital process is designed to empower consumers with direct access to life insurance—particularly those looking for services beyond traditional financial channels, and those seeking alternative tools that offer growth and protection,” Dee added.

Policyholders can also access their money for large needs or emergencies thanks to loanable cash values. Policyholders can obtain guaranteed payouts equivalent to high-yield time deposits with a single payment. With the extra benefit of a safety net in the form of life insurance, the product functions as an alternative to traditional savings.

As the Philippine life insurance market continues to develop through digital innovation, PRULove Wealth Direct’s launch coincides with a significant turning point in the sector. Pru Life UK is responding to the growing number of Filipinos looking for flexible, easily accessible ways to safeguard their financial future by offering solutions that enable people to follow their passions and get ready for life’s milestones—for every life, for every future.

Please visit PRUShoppe.com and consult the relevant product terms and conditions for further information.

 

 

 

October 14, 2025 by
Lifestyle

Manila Water moves additional facilities to the improved Retail Aggregation Program offered by ERC

The Manila Water enterprise continues to lead the way in sustainable energy adoption as it transitions fifty-six (56) additional facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP).

As it transfers fifty-six (56) more facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), Manila Water Enterprise remains in the forefront of the use of sustainable energy.

The 56 facilities include the Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark, the first and largest ecopark to be powered entirely by renewable energy under RAP, 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, and 45 Estate Water facilities serving Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Manila. These facilities further demonstrate the dedication to sustainable operations and cutting-edge energy solutions. 1,682 kW is the total demand associated with the transition.

This milestone was marked with another RAP switching ceremony held at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City, which is the 4th switching for Manila Water this year.

“Manila Water’s participation in RAP demonstrates its commitment to innovation and consumer empowerment. By aggregating demand and leveraging competitive supply options, Manila Water is helping pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient energy sector. At the ERC, our mandate is clear: to promote consumer welfare while ensuring a fair and competitive energy market and RAP is a key component of this vision.” said ERC Director for Market Operations Service Sharon Montaner.

“Since Manila Water’s first switching in February 2025, RAP participation has grown by 70%, a rate faster than RCOA, reflecting greater inclusivity and freedom of choice”, Director Montaner further noted.

The 56 facilities consist of 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, 45 facilities of Estate Water covering Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila, and Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark.

The event was also graced by ERC Chair Francis Saturnino Juan, MWSS Corporate Office Department Manager for Policy, Planning, and Public Relations Christian Nicole Baluca, MWSS-RO Legal Affairs Department Manager Crescenciano Minas Jr., PrimElectric Holdings Chief Operating Officer Richard Nethercott, IEMOP Vice President for Administration Sheryll Dy, MERALCO AVP and Head of Enterprise Commercial and Conglomerates Bernice Rama and representatives from the Climate Change and Sustainability Department of the Quezon City Local Government.

With these developments, Manila Water now sources electricity for a total of 214 facilities, representing an aggregated demand of 11 MW. Under the enhanced RAP framework, these facilities are supplied by PrimeRES Energy through Meralco’s distribution network.

“This is all about the power of choice. We have 214 facilities switched now to RAP… and that’s very powerful because at the end of the day, we are held as a utility accountable to the costs that we charge our customers. We’ve tried to rethink our approach towards tariff and our customer base and really be as sufficient as possible,” says Jocot De Dios, Manila Water President and CEO.

Earlier this year, Manila Water pioneered the country’s first transition to the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program, consolidating ten (10) of its wastewater facilities under a single electricity sourcing. This marked a significant step in leveraging the RAP framework to streamline energy procurement and reduce costs.

Building on this momentum, the Company expanded its aggregation efforts through its operating units. In April, Laguna Aquatech facilitated the switch of 25 facilities, representing a combined demand of 900 kW. Additionally, Laguna Water transitioned 67 more facilities, contributing a substantial 4.3 MW to the total aggregated demand.

As the first utility in the Visayas to use RAP, Boracay Water made history in May. Its switch featured 11 facilities, from pumping stations and water treatment plants to lift stations and wastewater treatment facilities, underscoring RAP’s versatility in a variety of operational configurations.

Customers like Manila Water can now combine the electrical needs of their facilities that are situated within the same distribution utility franchise zones under the improved Retail Aggregation Program (RAP) framework. One of the main goals of the EPIRA is to increase the affordability of energy options in the retail electricity market, and this strategy supports the idea of customer choice.

 

October 14, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Asia Stage: Amplifying Asia’s Voice at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025

Books have the power to cross borders, carrying the voices, experiences, and cultures of those who create them. This capacity to bring people together takes center stage at the Asia Stage of the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025. From October 15 to 19, illustrators, writers, publishers, and thought leaders from across Asia will gather to share their stories, celebrate their craft, and showcase the richness and diversity of Asian literature to the world.

The Asia Stage is the vision of Rex Education, brought to life in partnership with Frankfurt Buchmesse and supported by the National Book Development Board. Its journey began in 2018 as the ASEAN Forum, evolved into the ASEAN Stage in 2019, and in 2024, it embraced its current identity: the Asia Stage. What began as a noble idea to highlight regional publishing has grown into a recognized platform, a stage where the depth of Asia’s literary voices can shine on the global scene.

At the heart of this initiative is Atty. Dominador D. Buhain, Chairman and President of Rex Education. His lifelong passion for literature and publishing has guided this vision from the start. As a co-founder of the Asia Pacific Publishers Association and the ASEAN Book Publishers Association, he has long believed that the stories of Asia deserve a wider audience. Through this initiative, he has sought to open doors for publishers to share works that mirror their nations’ creativity, hopes, struggles, and resilience.

For REX, the Asia Stage has grown beyond a program. It has become a brand, a symbol of years of dedication to supporting Asian publishers and content creators at one of the world’s most important book fairs.

This year, with the Philippines as Guest of Honor, the Asia Stage brings a deeper dimension to the country’s participation. It reminds us that Filipino literature is part of a much larger story—one that connects with the voices and visions of Asia. For 5 days, the Asia Stage will host conversations, panels, and presentations that explore the education landscape, the evolving world of publishing, and the many ways culture continues to shape and inspire the region’s literature. Through this collaboration, REX and Frankfurt Buchmesse renew their shared commitment to uplifting Asian stories and ensuring that these voices continue to be heard, seen, championed, and remembered.

As the Frankfurt Book Fair opens its doors, the Asia Stage will stand with much gratitude and pride, inviting the world to witness and listen. It is a reminder that stories carry power. They connect us, inspire us, and transform us. For 5 days, Asia will speak, and the world will listen.

 

October 14, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

BPI strengthens ESG initiatives by cleaning up the Pasig River and donating boats for emergency response

BPI and Philippine Coast Guard volunteers navigate the Pasig River as part of a joint clean-up drive and disaster response initiative. (Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard)

Through its inaugural River Clean-Up Drive at the Mexico Plaza Ferry Station in Intramuros, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and the Philippine Coast Guard Maritime Security and Law Enforcement Command (PCG MARSLEC) celebrated a significant milestone in environmental sustainability, community resilience, and disaster preparedness.

In order to restore the Pasig River, the program brought together BPI officials, Coast Guard officers, auxiliary groups, and employee volunteers.

In accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement, BPI gave the rescue boats to PCG MARSLEC earlier this month, and the activity also marked the vessels’ first formal sea trial.

Through the combined efforts of BPI, PCG MARSLEC, the Coast Guard National Capital Region–Central Luzon (CG NCRCL), PCGA 109th Squadron, and volunteers, the cleanup collected 200 sacks—equivalent to more than 10,000 kilograms of waste and debris. The collective action underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing both disaster readiness and environmental stewardship.

“These boats symbolize more than just preparedness for emergencies; they represent BPI’s commitment to protecting our communities and the environment,” said Dominador Bernales, Jr., BPI Chief Security Officer.

“By working with the Philippine Coast Guard, we ensure that our resources are managed by experts and put to effective use for both disaster response and sustainability initiatives like this river clean-up.”

Two rescue boats and support vessels were deployed along the Pasig River during the BPI and PCG’s river clean-up and boat launch activity. (Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard)

The two boats, equipped with outboard motors, will be used for rescue operations, disaster response training, and environmental activities such as river and coastal cleanups. PCG MARSLEC will manage their safekeeping and operational readiness for three years, after which BPI will formally donate the boats.

Volunteers from BPI and the PCG collect waste from the Pasig River, reaffirming their shared commitment to environmental protection and community resilience. (Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard)

The cleanup highlighted strong collaboration across agencies and organizations. Volunteers from BPI’s Enterprise Operations and Human Resources Segments joined PCG units and auxiliaries in clearing river waste, while tugboats, safety marshals, Emergency Medical Team stations, and logistics support ensured smooth and safe execution.

In photo (L-R): PCG MARSLEC’s Capt. Leopoldo Apillanes, Jr., Chief of Staff; Capt. John Lyndon Baxinela, Acting DCS for Operations, M3; Commo Fideles Sallidao, Deputy Commander; and Radm Inocencio Rosario, Jr., Commander; with BPI’s Dominador Bernales, Jr., Chief Security Officer; Col. Nicolas Suemith, Physical Security Incident Management Head; and Leonido Gomez, Physical Security Technology Head. (Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard)

Section 147 of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Manual of Regulations for Banks, which requires efficient security and emergency response procedures, is reflected in the cooperation between BPI and PCG, which was initially established through an MOU in April 2025. The program exemplifies BPI’s overarching goal of improving the Philippines, one neighborhood at a time, in addition to compliance.

 

 

 

 

October 14, 2025 by