On May 30–31, 2025, in Okada Manila, the &FRIENDS Festival will welcome world-renowned musicians to Manila for a unique festival of music and partying.
Grammy-winning EDM legend Zedd, multi-platinum rapper bbno$, Billboard Music Top Dance/Electronic Album winner Illenium, Dutch electronic duo €URO TRA$H, Singapore’s fastest-rising DJ Kiara, the creator of catchy dubstep Seven Lions, Filipino-Australian superstar Ylona Garcia, and more are all on the &FRIENDS Festival’s star-studded musical lineup.
A Once in a Lifetime Lineup for the Philippines
Fresh from playing some of the world’s biggest stages—including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, EDC Las Vegas, and Tomorrowland—these headliners are no strangers to electrifying massive crowds. Zedd, the Grammy-winning artist behind festival anthems like Clarity and Stay the Night, is making a triumphant return to Manila after nearly 3 years.
Illenium, known for being the first electronic artist to sell out SoFi Stadium twice, will finally bring his euphoric sound with songs like Good Things Fall Apart and Takeaway to the Philippines. Meanwhile, bbno$, the genre-bending and viral rapper behind Lalala and edamame, is set to make his Manila debut, promising an unforgettable live performance.
Joining them are a mix of local and international talents, including €URO TRA$H, Amiel Sol, BOTCASH, Fairlane b2b Siangyoo, Hoang, KDH, Kiara, Kiyo, Jeonghyeon, NGHTSHIFT, NoahJ, RayRay, Seven Lions, and Ylona Garcia. While rooted in EDM, fans can experience a dynamic fusion of genres, from hard-hitting beats and high-energy rap to soulful vocals.
The Festival Made for You &FRIENDS
Set against the backdrop of Manila’s buzzing festival scene, &FRIENDS Festival is a cultural moment where music and pop culture collide.
“We’ve seen how festivals like Coachella, EDC, and Tomorrowland unite music lovers from all over the world, and now it’s Manila’s turn,” says Justin Banusing, CEO of Clout Kitchen, organizers of the festival. “&FRIENDS is about bringing people together—whether you’re here for the biggest names in EDM, viral popstars, or the next breakout artist, this is the festival for fans who want it all.”
With two days of live performances, fans can choose from a variety of ticket options to tailor their festival experience.
2-Day Tickets that include entry to both days, are at Php 8,500 for General Admission and Php 15,000 for VIP.
Solo day tickets start at Php 6,000 for Day 1, with Zedd, €URO TRA$H, Kiara, Fairlane b2b Siangyoo and more EDM acts. Day 2 starts at Php 3,500, featuring bbno$, Illenium, Seven Lions, Ylona Garcia, and a variety of pop, rap, and EDM performances.
From now until March 30, fans may save and avail of bundles with their friends with 5x 2-Day General Admission tickets for Php 34,000.
The ultimate &FRIENDS experience can be enjoyed in VVIP Cabanas, starting at Php 90,000 for Day 1, and Php 54,000 for Day 2, for 9 pax.
The new single “Yumi & The Apocalypse,” which is the lead single from the indie alternative band SOS’s upcoming sophomore album, It Was A Moment, which will be released on March 28th, explores endings.
“Yumi & The Apocalypse” combines new, experimental production with old, familiar sounds to focus on SOS’s powerful storytelling, which is frequently centered on personal experiences and serves as an avatar of collective ones. They do this by delicately balancing their propensity toward cynicism (or, as they put it, “a stroke of sadness”) with a more mellowed maturity. Even though the song is about a breakup, “Yumi” handles it more elegantly. “It’s with less spite and more acceptance,” the band says.
Originally written with a different chorus by vocalist Roberto Seña, the band kept the older production and incorporated standout rearrangements by Ram Alonzo (keys) and King Puentespina (drums), who also both work on synths. Kiddo Cosio, the owner of beloved El Union coffee shop and roastery, played on trumpet for the track.
While “Yumi & The Apocalypse” still delivers SOS’ self-described classic “guitars, angsty but melancholic singing,” the end result is brought together by dynamic sources of inspiration and sound palettes from all five members, even if it meant not capitulating to a highly pop-oriented market—but with hopes it will resonate with people, too. “It was rewarding hearing the music come together. It always is… A lot of artists are too concerned to make a pop hit, but sometimes you just want to let some angst out,” they said. “We’re always just trying to amuse ourselves at this point. Never fully concerned if listeners today want this from us. If it lands, it lands. We’re just happy to be in the studio and bring life to whatever stories we have to tell.”
The single follows the release of the band’s highly anticipated second album, It Was A Moment, which was their first full-length album since Alonzo joined in 2023 and their critically praised 2017 debut LP, Whatever That Was.
Alsons Dev, in partnership with Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI) and the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI), brings The Mind Rover to Avia Estate, giving public school students in Sarangani an immersive, hands-on science learning experience.
The Mind Rover was brought to Avia Estate, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation’s (Alsons Dev) 121-hectare township in Alabel, Sarangani, on February 25, 2025, in collaboration with Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI), the group behind The Mind Museum. This program provides public school kids with free entry to the internationally acclaimed, multi-awarded science museum experience.
About 200 students from IP-integrated schools (IS) in the Sarangani Province, including Datal Basak IS and Lebe IS in Maasim; Malandag Central Elementary School, Pulatana IS, and Malungon National High School in Malungon; Policarpo H. Millona Central Integrated School and Lun Padidu National High School in Malapatan; and Paraiso IS and Sofan IS in Alabel, were welcomed by the Avia Estate leg through the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation (CLAFI), the Alcantara Group’s corporate social responsibility arm.
During their visit, the students explored interactive exhibits in the Mind Rover representing The Mind Museum’s five unique galleries: Atom, Life, Earth, Universe, and Technology. They also enjoyed special screenings of Mind S-Cool TV, a family-friendly show that makes science and the arts fun and engaging.
To make the most of their learning experience, the students also toured the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, home to a Fire Substation, Community Police Assistance Center, and Emergency Operations Center built and donated by Alsons Dev to the Alabel LGU. While waiting, the students enjoyed reading CLAFI’s Flalok Big Books, a collection of illustrated folklore of the Blaan Indigenous Peoples in Sarangani Province and General Santos. These books preserve traditional Blaan stories, originally passed down orally, by presenting them in written and illustrated forms that reflect Blaan culture.
By promoting education as the cornerstone of community development and increasing access to transformative learning opportunities, Alsons Dev reaffirmed the company’s dedication to empowering Sarangani communities.
With assistance from the Malungon, Malapatan, and Alabel LGUs, Sarangani Energy Corporation, Department of Education – Sarangani Division, and NutriAsia, BAFI and 2Go, in collaboration with local partners Alsons Dev and CLAFI, made the Mind Rover Avia Estate leg, the first of three stops in the SOX Region, possible.
[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque, EC Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Contributing Editor of Asian Business Review, Simon Hyatt.
The Philippines’ online economy grew at the quickest rate among six Southeast Asian countries in 2024, according to the most recent e-Conomy SEA report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. The nation’s digital economy grew by 20%, with its gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing from $26 billion in 2023 to $31 billion in 2024, mostly due to the growing e-commerce industry.
Leading telecoms and managed ICT services provider Eastern Communications emphasizes its impressive performance over the past 12 months and is prepared to enable businesses with state-of-the-art ICT solutions and its strong, creative network architecture as the need for digitalization increases.
A Year of Growth and Recognition
[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, and EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque
Eastern Communications has experienced remarkable business growth and resilience over the past decade. In 2024, Eastern increased its revenue by 8.4%, marking its competitive presence in the telco industry. The company has fueled its success by continuously striving for innovation, operational sustainability, and customer-centric solutions.
With a growing B2B market share, Eastern Communications has been able to make its innovative ICT solutions more widely accessible. This expansion has significantly impacted offerings like Eastern Cloud, a customizable public cloud platform powered by CloudSigma. Designed for flexibility, Eastern Cloud allows businesses to purchase only the computing resources they need, without being locked into fixed server sizes, offering greater control, cost efficiency, and scalability.
It was recently named the Cloud Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Telecom Awards 2025, highlighting Eastern’s effort in redefining cloud computing in the Philippines. More than just a business success story, Eastern Cloud has also helped drive digital transformation across industries in the Philippines by enabling businesses to reduce IT infrastructure costs by up to 30%.
Further demonstrating its infrastructure excellence, Eastern Communications also received the Infrastructure Initiative of the Year – Philippines award for its participation in the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN),a joint venture between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN, designed to fortify the country’s communication infrastructure.
Addressing the vulnerabilities of traditional networks, the PDSCN Express Route strategically ensures that at least 80% of cables are laid underwater, with less than 20% inland, significantly reducing the risks of network disruptions caused by cable cuts. Through this innovative approach, Eastern Communications delivers enhanced bandwidth and network resilience, empowering Filipinos—especially those in disaster-prone areas—with stronger, more reliable connectivity.
For Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications, this recognition marks an exciting start to the year. “We are truly grateful for these global recognitions. They highlight our continuous mission to drive digital transformation across the Philippines. They fuel our passion to push boundaries, to empower businesses with resilient connectivity and future-ready solutions, and to champion ICT education and accessibility for all Filipinos,” she said
Expanding Reach and Elevating its Heart of Service
Eastern Communications’ management committee leads the pack through strategic growth in 2025
Eastern Communications is committed to expanding its network to more business hubs across the country. In 2025, the company will extend its services to key cities including: Cotabato City, in BARMM, General Santos City in South Cotabato, and Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte.
“Our continuous expansion across the country is more than just growing our footprint, but pushing for a digital-ready Philippines and driving economic progress. With the rising demand for digital solutions, we aim to bring our world-class connectivity to rising business centers across the country, strategically improving our network to provide world-class connectivity to Filipinos,” said Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.
Strengthening Security and Connectivity with DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS
Eastern Communications enhances nationwide infrastructure through its submarine cable laying project.
As cyberthreats become more sophisticated, Eastern Communications continues to invest in next-level security solutions. One of its latest offerings, DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service), provides a premium, dedicated, high-speed internet solution designed to meet the demands of modern businesses.
DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS uses fiber-powered leased line technology, coupled with robust DDoS (Distributed denial of service) protection, ensuring reliable 24/7 connectivity with speeds of up to 10 GBPS, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and resilient access to global internet backbones. This cutting-edge solution enhances workforce productivity while safeguarding businesses against cyber disruptions.
As Eastern Communications looks ahead, it remains dedicated to being more than just a telco and ICT provider—it aims to be a trusted managed services partner of choice for businesses. Eastern continues to highlight its Heart of Service, delivering personalized solutions that drive business success. In 2024, the company’s Customer Satisfaction Score rose to an above-industry standard of 96.1%, demonstrating its dedication to customer experience excellence.
The company’s 2025 campaign, “Exceeding Expectations,” was inspired by its Heart of Service and intends to use Eastern’s high-tech and high-touch solutions to assist businesses surpass their objectives and improve their own customer experience.
Please visit www.eastern.com.ph to find out more about Eastern Communications.
Making saving easier, rewarding, and aligned with the Filipino consumers’ financial aspirations. Monj Del Rosario, Metrobank’s Consumer Business Head, reinforces the bank’s commitment to enabling Filipinos to unlock their life goals with offers that address their needs.
Let’s face it, with your daily bills stacking up, your concerns about unforeseen emergency expenses, and the general need for the proper savings habit, saving money can frequently feel overwhelming.
And you’re not the only one. According to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), family spending is increasing while saving rates are down. From 29% in the third quarter of 2024 to 25.6% in the final quarter, the percentage of households with savings decreased. In the meantime, household expenditure has been rising for the upcoming quarter, especially when it comes to costs for dining out, clothes, and food. Life throws you curveballs, your costs go up, and all of a sudden your savings objectives seem farther away than ever. This is a frequent struggle.
At a recent event, Metrobank talked about the difficulties that can arise when saving money and how you can have a chance to change this by making saving a conscious habit and utilizing valuable deals like its newly announced Triple Bonus promotion. As we often find ourselves easily swayed into purchasing various things, I must admit that I am guilty of this. That’s why I truly appreciate the valuable insights Metrobank provides on effectively managing finances. They not only share essential data on saving rates and financial trends but also equip us with deeper knowledge about financial management and exclusive offers.
According to the bank, one simple but effective way to start saving money intentionally is through goal-based saving which entails having separate accounts for specific financial goals – a modern take on the classic envelope method. By having dedicated savings accounts for your goals, you create a clear boundary between what’s meant for spending on your essentials and what’s meant for saving for your dreams.
Say no to #FOMO and yes to #SWOMO. Cris Concepcion, Institutional Brand Marketing Head, introduces the concept of “saving without missing out” (SWOMO) – reiterating that saving money shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. Filipino savers should be able to set aside funds for their dreams, big and small, on top of working towards financial security.
The bank also highlighted that saving shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. While it’s important to save money to prepare for emergencies or retirement, Metrobank encourages savers like you to Save Without Missing Out or to #SWOMO. This entails setting aside money to fund your dreams, whether that’s a solo backpacking trip to Japan, a dream destination wedding, or buying a comfortable home. This helps strike a balance between striving to be financially secure and living the life you’ve aways dreamed of.
Reach your life goals with Metrobank. Ina Pilares, Head of Retail Deposits and Payments, discusses how Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, which runs from today until April 30, 2025, provides meaningful offers that help empower Filipinos to reach their savings goals.
Saving for these goals is made even more rewarding with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, that offers meaningful perks to help you reach your financial goals. After all, building your savings is the best gift you can give to your future self. When you open your first Metrobank savings or checking account from now until April 30, 2025, you get a triple bonus that will help set you up on your savings journey:
PHP 1,500 Cash Gift: Consider this a head start, a boost to your savings, or a well-deserved reward for taking that first step in building your goals fund. Enjoy a cash gift equivalent to a 3% return on your savings, when you deposit and maintain PHP 50,000 in your account, for 6 consecutive months.
Rebates on InstaPay Fees for a year: Make your everyday transactions lighter on your wallet with up to 10 waived InstaPay fees per month, for 12 months. Just maintain at least PHP50,000 in your account monthly for a year to enjoy this exclusive benefit. This will definitely put more money back into your pocket – because every peso counts, especially for your everyday expenses.
AXA Personal Accident Insurance: Life happens, and unexpected expenses can derail your plans and deplete your savings. With this insurance coverage, you can focus on your goals, knowing that you have a safety net for unexpected events in your life. Keep at least PHP50,000 in your account every month for a year to enjoy this added protection.
Save for the future you dream of. Influencers and friends from the media pose with their creative vision-to-action boards– as they commit to saving more intentionally for their life goals with the help of Metrobank.
With these rewards, Metrobank aims to encourage more people to be able to save money, and ultimately, start building the financial habits that will allow you to reach your life goals. To enjoy these offers, head to your nearest Metrobank branch and open your first Metrobank account.
As you save for your life goals in 2025, give yourself a threefold bonus.
Money-festing Friends from the media excitedly create colorful vision boards for their life goals, with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus promo being the enabler of their dreams.
Visit the Metrobank location that is closest to you or visit https://metrobank.com.ph to find out more.
By extending GoRoam to China, Turkey, and Oman, Globe is lowering the cost and increasing the convenience of foreign travel for both tourists and Filipino employees working abroad.
Travelers can now access cost-effective, country-specific roaming plans in 17 locations across the globe with these new additions, eliminating the need to switch SIMs, wait in line at the airport for a local pocket WiFi, or remain within a specific range of a WiFi device in order to stay connected.
For as little as Php23 per day, GoRoam offers users dependable, fast mobile internet at prices comparable to those of local SIM cards. Long-term visitors to these locations will also be able to access websites that are blocked in their home countries without having to pay more for a VPN.
The latest offers come with affordable and extended validity options, catering to both short-term tourists and long-term travelers:
GoRoam China – 15GB for 10 days at P800
GoRoam Turkey – 10GB for 30 days at P800
GoRoam Oman – 10GB for 30 days at P700
These countries expand the reach of GoRoam, joining Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, UAE, USA, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Japan, Vietnam, and the Maldives.
“As more Filipinos travel abroad, staying connected should be simple and affordable. GoRoam offers are highly competitive in terms of pricing compared to other alternatives and local SIMs,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Globe’s Head of International Business.
“With GoRoam, customers can enjoy reliable data roaming without the inconvenience of changing SIMs or unexpected charges. Our goal is to provide customers with a straightforward way to stay online wherever they go,” she said.
By making a reservation in advance via the GlobeOne app, customers may quickly activate their GoRoam subscriptions. For more flexibility, Globe Prepaid and TM customers can also sign up using GCash.
Globe still offers cutting-edge roaming options tailored for contemporary tourists. Customers can visit glbe.co/roam to register or find out more about GoRoam.
Hello Glow’s sunscreen bar at Waterbomb Manila 2025
With a thrilling blend of music, water-themed entertainment, and skincare fun, Waterbomb Manila 2025 makes a spectacular premiere at the Quirino Grandstand! The inaugural Waterbomb festival in the Philippines showcased a thrilling blend of K-pop, hip-hop, and EDM acts, all while keeping attendees shielded from the sun with the help of Hello Glow’s Sunscreen Bar!
Hello Glow Keeps the Crowd Sun-Safe
By installing a Sunscreen Bar at Waterbomb Manila 2025, Hello Glow created a stir and made sure that festival goers could enjoy themselves while protecting their skin. Hello Glow’s sunscreen testers let festival goers to make their own sunscreen charms and reapply SPF, making it the ideal summertime necessity for a day filled with music and nonstop water fights. Hello Glow, a skincare company with Korean influences, was a perfect partner in creating an amazing first Waterbomb Manila!
Hello Glow’s Sun Care Stick with SPF 60+
Day 1 Highlights
The festival kicked off with high-energy performances from a star-studded lineup. EXO’s Chanyeol electrified the stage, while Jessi made her triumphant return with a powerful set. Sunmi and Hyolyn wowed the crowd with their stunning vocals and dynamic dance performances. Hip-hop and R&B fans enjoyed sets from Gray, BamBam, and reggae duo Skull & HAHA. Representing the local scene, P-pop groups Bilib and ZÉLA proudly showcased Filipino talent.
Day 2 Highlights
The excitement continued on the second day with Kang Daniel, whose smooth vocals and choreography captivated fans. Hyolyn returned for another high-energy set, while Gray, Oh My Girl, VIVIZ, and NU’EST’s Baekho delivered unforgettable performances. Water fights and synchronized water shows kept the crowd refreshed throughout the festivities.
The Ultimate Festival Experience
With its combination of live performances, interactive water activities, and eye-catching visual effects, Waterbomb Manila 2025 was more than just a music event. Attendees were able to fully enjoy the action without worrying about sun damage because Hello Glow made sure everyone’s skin remained sun-safe.
Due to Hello Glow’s involvement, the event was not only more enjoyable but also more skincare-friendly! It’s safe to assume that SPF will continue to be essential for the best possible festival experience, and fans are already anticipating the next Waterbomb Manila.
The BPI #BestLifeRun 2025 is anticipated to attract 6,000 runners.(Photo from BPI #BestLifeRun last June 9, 2024)
On March 1, 2025, registration for the highly anticipated BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race 2025 will formally open!
This year’s marathon, the nation’s first and only corporate-focused running event, is expected to be bigger and better, bringing together professionals from different industries in the goal of corporate wellness, fitness, and friendship.
As it enters its third year, the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race furthers the collective commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being while promoting workplace health and wellness. What began as a way for BPI employees to unite has grown into a multi-company fitness movement that now includes teams from huge firms and run clubs of all sizes as well as micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs).
Run for a cause, race for wellness
Happening on June 8, 2025, at Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City, the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race will feature four race categories—3KM, 5KM, 10KM, and 21KM—ensuring that runners of all fitness levels can participate. It expects to draw 6,000 participants, consisting of a mix of employees from various companies.
Companies and organizations can register teams with a minimum of four members, competing not just for speed, but for the title of the fastest, fittest, and most competitive organization.
“At BPI, we believe that a thriving workforce starts with a focus on wellness and well-being. The #BestLifeRun is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the collective pursuit of a healthier lifestyle,” said Gina Eala, BPI Chief Human Resources Officer.
Beyond the excitement of competition, the BPI Foundation’s partner communities around the country will benefit from this year’s race’s net revenues.
“We extend an invitation to businesses and organizations to participate in this significant endeavor, where we enhance our business communities and significantly improve the lives of others,” Eala continued.
Special registration perks!
Early bird registrants from March 1 to 15, 2025, can enjoy discounted rates, with registration fees starting at P800 for 3KM; P1,000 for 5KM; P1,200 for 10KM; and P1,600 for 21KM.
Participants can register by visiting @bpibestliferun on Instagram, BPI’s official Facebook page, or RUNRIO’s social media pages. BPI corporate clients are encouraged to coordinate with their relationship managers for team registration.
More than a race – a celebration of corporate teamwork!
The excitement doesn’t stop at the finish line! Runners can enjoy post-race activities in the race village, connect with peers, and explore booths from event sponsors. Special awards await top-performing corporate teams, competitive individuals, and standout run clubs.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary race for health, camaraderie, and purpose. Gather your colleagues, lace up your running shoes, and be part of the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race 2025!
For more information, follow @bpibestliferun on Instagram.
The nation’s first e-commerce site, Lazada, is starting March with premium products at cheaper prices during its 3.3 Pasabog Sale, which runs from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7. Take advantage of up to 90% OFF LazFlash offers, 100% free shipping with no minimum buy, and up to P2000 Lazada coupons when you switch to the better 3.3 sale!
Customers can use Lazada’s array of GenAI services, such as AI Lazzie—Southeast Asia’s first eCommerce chatbot—for a more smart and tailored buying experience. Customers’ decision-making process is streamlined by this application, which offers virtual try-ons, image-based searches, customized recommendations, product review summaries, and a skin analyzer.
In order to provide more flexibility and satisfaction, Lazada has enhanced its return and refund policy. It now offers 30-day free returns, which is twice the industry standard, as well as a simple refund procedure with more categories for Change of Mind returns.
Shop Lazada’s 3.3 Pasabog Sale from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7 and follow Lazada Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for additional daily pasabog offers.
The picturesque shores of Boracay Island are set to welcome the grand finale of the longest-running kiteboarding tournament in Asia, the Philippine Kiteboarding Association or PKA Tour on its 10th Season. Over 80 elite kiteboarding athletes from across the globe gather for three days of high-octane action at the beach front of Aqua Boracay, Bulabog Beach from March 14-16, 2025. This final stop of the tour promises to be a spectacular showcase of skill, speed and style, featuring top riders from the Philippines, USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
The Philippine Kiteboarding Association, often known as the PKA Tour, is the oldest kiteboarding competition in Asia, and its tenth season will culminate on the beautiful sands of Boracay Island. From March 14–16, 2025, more than 80 top kiteboarders from across the world come together for three days of intense competition at Bulabog Beach, which is located on the shores of Aqua Boracay.
Top riders from the Philippines, USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia are expected to put on a magnificent display of talent, speed, and style at this tour’s last stop. Yo Pudla of Thailand, the eight-time Asian Cup champion and current IKA Asian Champion in Twin-Tip Racing, is part of the all-star lineup. He will face off against other local athletes and top contenders like Stefan Vance of Northern Ireland.
Among the top athletes representing the Philippines is Warner Janoya, a Boracay-born kiter and one the country’s most promising talents. Janoya, a standout in both Men’s Freestyle and Foil Racing, is poised to make his hometown proud as he competes against the world’s best.
Adding the excitement, Triina Trei from Estonia, the reigning Season 9 Overall Champion in Women’s Freestyle and Foil Racing will be defending her title against a fierce field of competitors from Japan, China and Australia.
Paris 2024 Summer Olympics marks the debut of the kite foil races as part of the sailing competitions. This milestone made the organization pumped up together with the international kitesurfing community to promote more the sport with hopes of sending representatives to the LA 2028 Olympics.
The competition will feature four adrenaline-pumping disciplines: Foil Racing, Twin-Tip Racing, Freestyle and Hangtime, ensuring a diverse and thrilling spectacle for spectators and fans alike.
Watch in awe as competitors defy gravity in the Hangtime competition, vying for the title of being airborne for the longest duration without their boards touching the water. This jaw-dropping display of skill and control will keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
The tournament will feature a freestyle competition that pushes the boundaries of creativity and athleticism. Athletes will showcase an array of gravity-defying tricks, spins, and flips, adding a visual feast for spectators and judges alike.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic twin tip board or the cutting-edge foil boards, the racing segments will cater to all preferences. Feel the rush as competitors navigate the azure waters, demonstrating speed, precision, and tactical prowess.
“We are thrilled to mount our final leg of our Kiteboarding Tournament in Boracay, known for its perfect conditions and breathtaking scenery. This event will not only showcase the incredible talent within the kiteboarding community but also highlight Boracay’s commitment to adventure sports and environmental conservation,” said Jay Ortiz, President of the Philippine Kiteboarding Association and the chief organizer of the tournament.
He also quipped: “that energy here in Boracay, as the Island once again host the biggest yearly kiteboarding event in Asia.”
Don’t miss the chance to witness the world’s best kiteboarders in action as they push the limits of the sport in one on the most beautiful destinations on the planet. Boracay’s world-renowned turquoise waters and consistent winds provide the perfect backdrop for this premier kiteboarding event, which is expected to draw not only athletes but also enthusiasts, media and tourists from around the globe.
The PKA Tour Season 10 Boracay stop is powered by ICTSI, together with tour sponsors Aqua Boracay, Neutra K, ICT Cloverleaf Trading, ZIV, Under the Sun, Sun Zapper, Manila Water and Boracay Water, Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast, and our tour hosts – Borongan, Eastern Samar, Roxas City, Cagbalete Island and Malay LGU and the Boracay Island community.
Take part in this unique occasion that blends Boracay’s natural beauty with the exhilaration of kiteboarding. Zander Servando can be reached by media inquiries at 09166885852 or [email protected].
For sponsorship options, please get in touch with Azenith Resurreccion at 09166902030 or [email protected]. Keep an eye out for real-time updates on social media by following the excitement with #PKATourSeason10 on the Philippine Kiteboarding Tour-PKA Tour Facebook page or PKATour on Instagram.
Event Details:
Date: March 14 – 16, 2024
Location: AQUA Boracay, Bulabog Beach, Boracay Island
Schedule:
Livestream by PCTV and Arkimagine from 9:00AM to 4:00PM Mar 14-16
March 13, 3:00-5:00PM Registration with a welcome program
March 14 Friday 8:00 to 4:00PM Competition and races with evening socials
March 15 Saturday 8:00 to 4:00 PM Competition (hangtime and freestyle) with evening socials
