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First Major Tech Triumph: Palawan Group Wins Silver and Bronze at Marketing Technologies – Asia Awards 2025

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The Palawan Group of Companies proudly celebrates its first-ever technology win after being recognized at the Marketing Technologies (MarkeTech) Asia Awards 2025. Held at the Mandarin Oriental in Singapore, the event saw representatives of the Palawan Group accept two significant distinctions: Silver for Best Use of Marketing Automation Platform and Bronze for Best Use of Omni-Channel Marketing Platform.

The Best Use of Marketing Automation Platform award recognizes organizations that harness automation tools to enhance customer engagement, streamline communication, and deliver more personalized experiences. The Palawan Group was honored for its data-driven automation campaigns that deepen relationships with its sukis, ensuring they receive timely and relevant financial updates.

Meanwhile, the Best Use of Omni-Channel Marketing Platform category celebrates brands that seamlessly integrate multiple touchpoints—online, mobile, and in-branch—to create a unified customer experience. PGC earned this recognition for its bricktech approach, combining digital innovation with the strength of its nationwide physical network to reach millions of Filipinos wherever they are.

These awards mark a significant milestone in the company’s digital transformation journey, highlighting its successful integration of innovative marketing technologies to better serve millions of sukis across the nation.

Palawan Group Chief Marketing Officer Bernard Kaibigan remarked, “These awards are a testament to how innovation and empathy can go hand in hand. By combining data-driven strategies with our bricktech approach, we continue to strengthen our connection with our sukis. Every day, we ensure that each interaction, whether online or offline, carries the same trust and malasakit that the Palawan Group is known for.”

The Marketing Technologies – Asia Awards recognize organizations across the region that excel in leveraging technology to deliver outstanding customer experience and marketing performance. For the Palawan Group, these accolades affirm its commitment to using technology not just for efficiency, but to deepen relationships and improve financial inclusion among Filipinos.

Palawan Group Head of Customer Relations Management Gelain Ramos stated “This achievement is a proof to the creativity and dedication of our Palawan marketing and product teams, whose data-driven strategies and customer-first innovations continue to strengthen our brand’s connection with Filipinos. Our journey toward digital excellence is guided by one goal: to make a difference in the lives of our customers, wherever they are.” She also acknowledged the valuable partnership of Hansa Cequity and CleverTap, whose collaboration helped bring this goal to life. She also acknowledged that this win will not be possible without the hardwork and collaboration of the PalawanPay Product & Tech teams.

Beyond plaques and distinctions, the Palawan Group views this milestone as a reflection of its enduring mission to provide reliable financial solutions and serbisyong may malasakit – a promise it has upheld for the last 40 years.

As the Palawan Group continues to expand its digital footprint through PalawanPay, Palawan Pawnshop, and Palawan Express Pera Padala, the company remains steadfast in its bricktech mission — to blend the accessibility of technology with the warmth and reliability of personal service.

HONOR and BYD Partner to Power the Future of AI-Driven Intelligent Mobility

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SHENZHEN, China – October 23, 2025 – Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR today announced a strategic partnership with BYD, the world’s leading new-energy vehicle manufacturer. The collaboration integrates HONOR’s vehicle connectivity solution with BYD’s next-generation DiLink smart ecosystem to deliver human-centric, AI-powered mobility experiences for consumers.

The agreement was signed at a ceremony witnessed by James Li, CEO of HONOR, and Wang Chuanfu, Chairman and President of BYD Group. Fang Fei, President of Products at HONOR, and Yang Dongsheng, Senior Vice President of BYD and President of the Automotive New Technology Research Institute, signed on behalf of their companies, marking the start of deeper cooperation in intelligent mobility.

This strategic partnership is not only a deep collaboration in technology and ecosystem between two industry leaders, but also a forward-looking commitment to the future of intelligent mobility.

The partnership will progress along three pillars:

  • Core technology and features: Joint innovation in cross-device ecosystem integration, AI agent integration, and high-precision Bluetooth-based car key.
  • Channel ecosystem and user benefits: establishing a collaborative channel model that leverages HONOR’s connected vehicle capabilities and BYD’s intelligent ecosystem to maximize interoperability between platforms.
  • Joint communications and user engagement: Collaborative marketing, joint launches and user engagement around key launch milestones.

HONOR and BYD first collaborated in 2023, introducing smartphone NFC car keys that let BYD owners lock and unlock vehicles with HONOR smartphones. In 2024, the partnership extended to in-vehicle fast charging. In 2025, building on phone-to-car connectivity, the partners deepened cooperation: DENZA became the first brand to adopt HONOR Car Connect, with coverage expanding across additional BYD brands to enable seamless cross-device interaction and service continuity.

“At HONOR, we have always believed that the key to maximizing human potential lies in the combination of a human-centric focus and technology. Our partnership with BYD is a comprehensive collaboration for the AI era, with smart mobility as the key strategic focus at this stage. Together, we will advance joint technology development, complement each other’s strengths, and co-create an ecosystem of seamless and intelligent mobility experiences that enrich every journey and help usher in a new paradigm of smart living,” said James Li, CEO of HONOR.

This strategic cooperation represents both a deep integration of technology and resources and a significant innovation in intelligent mobility. Looking ahead, both companies will continue to be user-centric and AI-driven, accelerating development and rollout of phone-to-car connectivity, digital keys, and other features while enhancing safety and convenience across smart mobility scenarios.

The upcoming 2025 HONOR Global Developers Conference and AI Device Ecosystem Conference on October 23rd will also showcase the collaborative achievements of both parties. HONOR will also highlight the HONOR AI Connect platform and its role in building human-centric, scenario-based AI ecosystem solutions during the conference.

BingoPlus welcomes the International Series in the Philippines with Filipino culture and hospitality

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The prestigious golf tournament, International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus, officially arrived in the country.

To kick off an exceptional week filled with exciting activities, world-class golf, and electrifying entertainment, a press conference and welcome gala was held on October 21, 2025 in Pasay. Presented by the country’s leading digital entertainment platform, BingoPlus, the event was attended by prominent media representatives, renowned influencers, top executives, and VIP guests.

Seated on the panel were Mr. Jasper Vicencio, President of AB Leisure Exponent Inc.; Mr. Rahul Singh, Head of the International Series; and Mr. Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour. They were joined by top golfers Mr. John Catlin, 2024 Asian Tour Order of Merit winner; Mr. Marc Leishman, LIV Golf star and six-time PGA Tour champion; Mr. Taichi Kho, Asian Games gold medalist; and Mr. Peter Uihlein, two-time International Series winner in 2024.

When asked by the media about activity highlights during the tournament, Mr. Rahul Singh shared that beyond the golf action happening from October 23 to 26, fans can also look forward to a major music festival on October 25 at the Aseana City Open Grounds—made possible by BingoPlus and headlined by some of the best international and local artists, including Alan Walker and Apl.de.Ap.

The star golfers also shared their excitement and preparations for the upcoming tournament, expressing that this is set to be one of the most anticipated events of the season. They highlighted the high level of competition, the intensive course, and the vibrant atmosphere in the Philippines as key factors that make this leg of the International Series truly special.

Following the press conference, guests celebrated in-style at the Welcome Gala, exhibiting performances that celebrated Philippine culture while showcasing Filipino beauty and talent. The evening culminated in a contemporary Filipiniana fashion show led by Miss Universe Philippines queens, seamlessly blending tradition with modern elegance. Meanwhile, VIP guests also enjoyed a meet-and-greet session with golf stars Dustin Johnson and Patrick Reed.

Mr. Eusebio H. Tanco, Chairman of DigiPlus, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the historic partnership between ISP and BingoPlus. “We are bringing exquisite, quality, and high-level golf experiences closer to Filipinos,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude to the ISP for trusting BingoPlus as a partner adding, “We have always been committed to contributing to the growth and development of Philippine sports. The BingoPlus Foundation, ISP, and BingoPlus will be donating one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) to the Asian Tour for the development of the game. Additionally, a donation of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) will be made to the National Golf Association of the Philippines to support golf promotion and development.”

Moreover, the evening was highlighted by a warm welcome toast led by key executives: Mr. Eusebio H. Tanco; Mr. Tommy Hu, Chief Executive Officer of DigiPlus; Mr. Rahul Singh; Mr. Cho Minn Thant; Ms. Christina Garcia Frasco, Secretary of the Department of Tourism; Mr. Patrick C. Gregorio, PSC Chairman; and Mr. Alejandro H. Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman.

Additionally, an interview session with ISP star players — Patrick Reed, Charl Schwartzel, and Dustin Johnson — was held, where the golf champions shared their insights and excitement about competing in the tournament. They also expressed their appreciation for the warm hospitality and unwavering support of Filipino fans, especially the support from BingoPlus.

Another highlight of the evening was the pledge of commitment to the PSC. The International Series, BingoPlus and the BingoPlus Foundation announced its donation to the organization — a testament to its continuous advocacy of uplifting and supporting local sports. Through this commitment, the brand aims to help develop Filipino athletes and empower them to make a lasting impact on the global stage.

Finally, Mr. Tommy Hu presented a token of appreciation to Mr. Rahul Singh and Mr. Cho Minn Thant to formally conclude the evening’s celebration. The gesture symbolized mutual respect and gratitude for the successful partnership and shared vision of promoting world-class golf in the Philippines.

The four-day golf tournament will take place from October 23 to 26, with free entry on October 23 and 24. Get your tickets at SM Tickets online.

All these and more brought to you by the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus! Together, let’s continue to Swing for the Filipino Sports Dream!

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates GameZone with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

A Living Tapestry: Inside the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair

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The air inside the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall hums with the sound of weaving looms, soft laughter, and lively conversation. The scent of freshly polished wood mingles with the faint aroma of local coffee from one of the nearby booths. In every direction, color and texture fill the space — from hand-dyed fabrics and finely carved wooden furniture to delicate beadwork and handwoven baskets that carry the mark of both tradition and modern design.

This is the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF), a celebration of Filipino creativity that brings together more than 300 exhibitors from across the country. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in partnership with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the NACF has once again transformed the Megatrade Halls into a living museum of Philippine artistry.

The Country’s Creative Heartbeat

From opening day, visitors—families, students, collectors, and buyers—have come to experience how Filipino artisans are redefining tradition. In one corner, weavers from Kalinga demonstrate backstrap weaving as vivid geometric patterns come to life on the loom. Nearby, the T’boli of South Cotabato display their distinctive t’nalak cloth dyed with natural pigments. The Maranaw artisans present their brassware and torogan-inspired designs, while exhibitors from Antique proudly showcase patadyong weaves that carry the legacy of their province’s women’s cooperatives.

Every booth tells a story. Each artisan represents a community, a heritage, and a continuing dialogue between the past and the future.

Honoring the Masters

At the heart of the fair are the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees — the National Living Treasures whose mastery preserves the Philippines’ intangible cultural heritage. Their presence lends the event both prestige and purpose. Visitors gravitate towards them, amazed at the generational knowledge being preserved and passed down for future generations.

During the daily program, Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs) offer demonstrations of traditional crafts passed down through generations. Young apprentices share how their elders are teaching them to weave, carve, or mold clay by hand.

These cultural bearers remind everyone that heritage is not frozen in the past but continues to grow, adapt, and thrive.

Tradition Meets Modern Design

This year’s fair also shines a spotlight on innovation. Curated by the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), several exhibits explore how traditional materials can take on new life through design collaboration. Modern furniture made from rattan, bamboo, and wood stand beside minimalist lighting fixtures crafted by artisans from Pampanga. Jewelry and fashion accessories reinvent indigenous motifs for the contemporary market.

Visitors can see how form and function coexist in the works on display. Even familiar crafts are reimagined through the creative use of color, pattern, and material.

Workshops and Live Demonstrations

Beyond the exhibits, the NACF’s daily schedule includes workshops, live performances, and business talks. Resource persons from partner agencies share insights on branding, product innovation, and intellectual property. Potters, weavers, and woodcarvers hold live demonstrations that captivate visitors and inspire future artisans.

For participants, the NACF is both an opportunity to connect with buyers and a venue for learning new ideas that can sustain their craft.

Partnerships that Empower Communities

The success of the NACF lies in the strong collaboration between government agencies and creative communities. The DTI-BMDPO continues to play a key role in helping artisans reach new markets through trade promotion and product development support. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) ensures that traditional knowledge is preserved, while the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) bridges heritage and innovation through design thinking.

The Office of Senator Loren Legarda remains a steadfast partner in this endeavor. Since its inception, Legarda has envisioned the NACF as both a cultural and economic platform — one that recognizes the artistry of Filipino communities while providing them with opportunities for growth.

Senator Legarda has long supported the empowerment of local artisans, particularly women’s cooperatives and weaving centers that sustain families through traditional crafts. Many of these groups are once again part of this year’s fair, sharing not only their products but also their stories of resilience and creativity.

“Every artisan who joins the fair brings with them the story of a community. Through their hands, we see how creativity can transform lives and how culture remains our strongest foundation for progress,” Legarda said.

A Celebration for All Filipinos

As the 7-day fair continues, the energy inside the Megatrade Halls buzz with energy and enthusiasm. Every day brings new faces, conversations, and discoveries. Students observe weaving techniques. Entrepreneurs explore partnerships. Tourists bring home handmade pieces that carry the spirit of the islands.

The NACF has grown beyond being a marketplace. It has become a meeting place for ideas, cultures, and generations. It invites visitors to see the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship not just as art to be admired, but as a living tradition to be supported and shared.

Visit the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair

The 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair runs from October 23 to 29, 2025, at the Megatrade Halls 1–3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Admission is free.

Experience the artistry of Filipino weavers, carvers, potters, and designers from all over the country. Discover handcrafted products that carry the stories of our communities and celebrate the creativity that continues to shape the nation’s identity.

For updates, follow DTI.BMDPO on Facebook and Instagram or email bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.

The NACF stands as a living testament to what happens when tradition, innovation, and community come together — a true tapestry of Filipino pride and craftsmanship.

EVAP Identifies Key Factors that Drive Stronger EV Sales in PH

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Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit runs from October 23 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center Manila

The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) is confident that the volume of registered electric vehicle (EV) registration in the country will set a new record in 2025 at around 35,000 units. Based on data from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), overall registered EVs in the first seven months of the year (January to July) already hit 29,715 units—comprising 28,353 new registrations and 1,362 renewals. In comparison, the total volume of EV registration was just around 24,000 for the entire 2024.

The seven-month EV registration volume also accounts for 5 percent of new vehicle registrations overall in the country during the period. These figures indicate that adoption of EVs among Filipino motorists continue to accelerate.

“Our EV volume target by 2040 is at least 2.5 million. I am confident, as I have always been, that this goal is easily achievable especially as we actually see that each year, we are breaking our own records,” said EVAP President Edmund Araga in his opening remarks during the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) held in SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on October 23.

“The bold target is to make EVs account for at least 50 percent of all vehicles on our roads by the year 2040. Our sector is hoping that the attractive incentives and perks offered to our motorists to shift to electric will further go full swing. EVs still enjoy zero import tariffs and EV owners are entitled to priority registration at the LTO, exemption to number coding scheme, and free use of public EV charging stations in a growing number of malls and other commercial and public establishments,” Araga continued.

Technology factor

The EVAP President also highlighted fast-advancing and impressive technology of modern EVs for the strong sales figures. He cited findings of a McKinsey China Auto Consumer Study that indicate that technology is the highest consideration for vehicle purchasers when choosing to buy EVs over traditional and internationally branded cars.

According to that research that was conducted in China, the biggest EV market in Asia, technology increases purchase intent by 10.8 percent, compared to lower price tags or discounts that increase purchase intention by just 3.6 percent. The study also cited range, charging speed, and interior experience as other factors that influence EV purchase decisions.

However, cost is logically the primary factor that influence consumers to buy EVs in the Philippines, based on findings of a March 2024 study ‘Marketing Strategy and Preference Analysis of Electric Cars in a Developing Country: A Perspective from the Philippines,’ published by the Mapua University.

According to that local research, battery type, charging methods, EV category, driving range, and charging speed are the other considerations by Filipino EV purchasers. The study suggested ways to possibly speed up EV adoption locally—overcome cost barriers and improve technological literacy among prospective purchasers.

EV official classification in PH

Moreover, Araga commended the Department of Energy (DOE) for recently issuing six official classifications of EVs in the country—battery EVs (BEVs), hybrid EVs (HEVs), Light EVs (LEVs), Plug-in Hybrid EVs (PHEVs), Range Extender EVs (REEVs), and Fuel Cell EVs (FCEVs).

In a statement, the DOE emphasized that classifying EVs in the country as such is a “critical step toward building a more organized, accessible, and future-ready EV market. By harmonizing EV recognition guidelines, we are reducing administrative burdens, increasing transparency, and accelerating EV adoption nationwide.”

“There are so many other important factors we can cite for the accelerating EV sales locally, among those is the rising number of EV Charging Stations or EVCS and the establishment of home-based EV and components manufacturing plants that further contribute to making EVs of all types more accessible to more Filipinos,” Araga concluded.

To learn more about available EV technology and models in the Philippines, and to participate in seminars and panel discussions, visit the Philippine Electric Summit 2025. With the theme ‘Charge Ahead, Ignite the EVolution,’ the summit runs from October 23 to 25, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

PEVS 2025 is organized by EVAP with co-presentors BYD Cars Philippines, Omoda & Jaecoo Motor Philippines Inc, United Asia Automotive Group Inc (UAAGI), GAC Dangdang, and the Department of Energy. Visit the PEVS website (https://pevsummit.com) to learn more and to register for free.

Congress To Ensure Sustainable Coffee Supply

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With the ever-volatile price of coffee beans globally, industry experts predict that coffee sustainability will be a major challenge. The 23-year-old non-profit Philippine Coffee Board Inc. (PCB) addresses these apprehensions at its upcoming First Coffee Sustainability Congress to be held in Makati City on October 23, 2025.

Headlined by Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, the Coffee Sustainability Congress also features one of the foremost Robusta experts, Nishant Gurjer of Kaapi Royale Bangalore, to share how India’s Robusta production continues to receive good value and better prices. “We have long wanted to raise the value of Robusta, which is 90% of our country’s production,” says Pacita Juan, Chair of the PCB. “The way to ensure the sustainability of our country’s coffee supply for domestic consumption is to enable farmers to produce quality coffee and by helping consumers appreciate high quality Philippine coffee,” she continues. The PCB brought in Gurjer to share how the once lowly bean variety can be world class and command higher prices.

Another way to sustainability is understanding the appreciation protocols of buyers from Asia Pacific and other global specialty markets. Dave Lim, Technical Director of the ASEAN Coffee Institute (www.aseancoffeeinstitute.org), will be coming to share the ASEAN Coffee Appreciation Protocol (ACAP).

Both these coffee experts will be holding an exclusive cupping session along with PCB members and advocates as an added feature of the Congress. 

Register now as there are only a few seats left for this milestone event to ensure our coffee supply continues to satisfy our café owners and the producers all over the country. Join us and be a part of the conversation!

Head over to https://bit.ly/phcoffeecongress to register and have a chance to join the cupping session within the Congress.

HONOR teases Revolutionary “Robot Phone” Ahead of MWC 2026

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This new ROBOT PHONE is a key part of HONOR’s ALPHA PLAN to bring innovative AI device experiences to consumers

HONOR just teased the new HONOR ROBOT PHONE at the HONOR Magic8 series launch in Beijing – a new species of AI device that merges multi-modal AI, robotic capabilities and advanced handheld imaging, marking a key milestone in HONOR’s ALPHA PLAN and its push toward becoming a global AI device ecosystem leader.

The HONOR ROBOT PHONE is set to combine robotics and advanced imaging. More details will be revealed at MWC 2026 in Barcelona according to HONOR.

Initial details are here: https://www.honor.com/global/events/honor-robot-phone/. Stay updated on all HONOR news by visiting www.hihonor.com or following HONOR’s official social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To explore HONOR’s full list of retail stores, visit https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

UNISOL and Nicky Rice: Weaving Heritage and Modernity at Manila FAME 2025

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At the heart of Manila FAME 2025, UNISOL took center stage with a two-day exhibit that redefined how uniforms can tell stories of heritage, creativity, and sustainability. Founded in Cebu, a city renowned for its garment craftsmanship, UNISOL began with a mission to empower local artisans displaced by expiring global contracts. Today, it stands as a trailblazer in transforming uniforms into cultural statements that celebrate Filipino artistry.

This year’s showcase highlighted the Lapulapu Heritage Collection, inspired by Cebu’s legendary warrior and crafted from locally produced piña fabric in full alignment with the Philippine Tropical Fabric Law (PTF Law). Each piece embodied the fusion of purpose and pride—designed to represent both professionalism and Filipino identity while supporting traditional weaving communities.

As a company born in Cebu, UNISOL has always been rooted in the craftsmanship and resilience of the Filipino worker,” shares Jonas Kee Quilantang, Chief Operating Officer of UNISOL. “What we’re doing now is more than making uniforms—we’re creating wearable narratives that honor our heritage and move the industry forward. Through our collaboration with Nicky Rice at Manila FAME 2025, we wanted to show that functionality and artistry can coexist; that a uniform can express identity, culture, and pride while remaining sustainable and globally competitive. Every piece we produce supports local weavers and artisans, and every stitch carries the story of Filipino innovation and heart.”

Adding a fresh creative dimension to the collection was UNISOL’s first-ever collaboration with Manila-based designer Nicky Rice. Known for her contemporary aesthetic and flair for merging form and function, Rice worked closely with UNISOL’s artisans to reinterpret the classic uniform through the lens of modern Filipino design. The result: a line that seamlessly blends heritage materials with clean silhouettes and versatile textures, proving that workwear can be both meaningful and fashion-forward.

Visitors at the exhibit experienced a dynamic fusion of design and storytelling through live demonstrations, textile touchpoints, and interactive displays that showcased the journey of each uniform—from concept sketches to the hands of local weavers. The collaboration between UNISOL and Nicky Rice became one of the most talked-about highlights of Manila FAME, representing the power of partnership between regional craftsmanship and Manila’s evolving creative scene.

Looking ahead, UNISOL announced the upcoming Chameleon Collection 2026, a line designed to adapt to the diverse identities of Filipino institutions—from schools and local government units to private corporations. Each uniform will embody regional heritage through innovative design, fostering a deeper connection between culture and contemporary workwear.

UNISOL’s participation in Manila FAME 2025 reaffirmed its role as a changemaker in the country’s fashion and manufacturing industries—where every stitch tells a story, every fabric honors a legacy, and every collaboration brings Filipino creativity to the global stage.

Follow UNISOL on Facebook or visit www.unisol.ph to explore its latest designs and partnerships.

AMA University Online Education Celebrates 2025 Graduates at the Historic Metropolitan Theater

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AMA University Online Education (OEd) proudly celebrated its 2025 Commencement Exercises at the Metropolitan Theater, honoring a new generation of “Breakthrough Professionals of the New World.” The ceremony gathered students, faculty, and families in a momentous event that recognized academic excellence and the spirit of innovation that defines OEd graduates.

A Ceremony of Excellence and Inspiration

The program opened with the OEd Team Assembly and registration, followed by an open house for guests and participants. As the procession began, the graduates, officers, and guest speakers filled the grand theater with anticipation. The event’s Master of Ceremonies, Nicole Hyala, an award-winning radio DJ, influencer, and vlogger, set an energetic and uplifting tone for the afternoon.

The formal proceedings began with the Entrance of Colors, Doxology, and the Philippine National Anthem, setting a dignified atmosphere before the singing of the AMA Hymn led by Mr. Nolo Lopez, an award winning singer, songwriter, actor and brand endorser.

Dr. Amable C. Aguiluz IX, Vice Chairman, CEO, and Founder of OEd (Online Education)

Messages from OEd Leadership

Christopher P. Satulan, Chief Operating Officer of OEd, delivered the Welcome Remarks, commending the graduates for their perseverance in pursuing their dreams through online education.

He was followed by an inspiring message from Dr. Amable C. Aguiluz IX, Vice Chairman, CEO, and Founder of OEd, who reaffirmed the institution’s mission to make education accessible and adaptive for all. In his message, Dr. Aguiluz underscored how online learning has become a symbol of empowerment—breaking barriers of distance, time, and circumstance. He reminded graduates that the future belongs to those who continue to evolve, saying that success is not defined by where one studies, but by one’s dedication to keep learning and growing. His words reflected OEd’s enduring belief that technology and education together can transform lives and build a nation of innovators.

Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V, Chairman of the AMA Education System, also extended his message through Oliver T. Vergara, Technical Director, congratulating the graduates for their resilience and encouraging them to embrace continuous learning as they step into a world shaped by digital transformation.

Christopher Satulan

Words of Wisdom and Recognition

The Inspirational Address was delivered by renowned television host and talent manager Mr. Eugenio “Boy” Abunda Jr., whose speech became one of the highlights of the ceremony. Speaking with passion and sincerity, Abunda encouraged the graduates to face life with courage and conviction.He emphasized, “Do not be afraid.”

Abunda reminded the graduates that fear is natural but should never hold them back from pursuing their dreams. He shared stories from his own journey—how faith, authenticity, and perseverance allowed him to overcome challenges and reinvent himself throughout his career. His message resonated deeply with the audience, urging them to embrace uncertainty as part of growth and to trust in their ability to make a difference.

Following his heartfelt speech, Mr. Abunda was presented with a Plaque of Appreciation by Christopher P. Satulan, Oliver T. Vergara, and Geraldine V. Barredo for his invaluable words of motivation.

An intermission number by Nolo Lopez and the presentation of the candidates for graduation by Melissa Aiza D. Pacheco, OEd Registrar, marked the transition into the academic portion of the program.

Oed Graduates

Honoring Academic Achievements

The Conferment of Degrees was led by Dr. Mary A. Soriano, Head of the Academic Department, followed by the Presentation of Academic Honors to top-performing graduates.

Marco Randy M. Pavia, Summa Cum Laude, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, delivered a heartfelt Valedictory Address, sharing the collective journey of resilience and transformation among the graduates.

The moment was followed by a moving Tribute to the Parents Video Presentation and a Pledge of Loyalty led by Jashley C. Alkuino, With Highest Honor, SHS – TVL/ICT.

Induction, Distribution, and Farewell

The ceremony continued with the Induction to the Alumni Association, led by Magna Cum Laude awardees Elianne Syl M. Ambas (BA in Mass Communication), Daryl Mae J. Medil-Braga (BA in English), and Edgar A. Cayanan (BS in Psychology).

Afterwards, the Distribution of Diplomas and the Graduation Rites officially marked the culmination of the academic journey. The event concluded with the Exit of Colors and Recessional, symbolizing both an ending and a new beginning for the graduates.

A Legacy of Flexible Learning

The 2025 commencement theme, “Breakthrough Professionals of the New World,” highlighted OEd’s commitment to producing future-ready individuals equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.

As the graduates stepped out of the Metropolitan Theater, they carried with them not only their hard-earned diplomas but also the courage to face an uncertain future — a lesson echoed in the words of their mentors and speakers. OEd once again proved that education, when powered by technology and purpose, can light the path to limitless possibilities.

About AMA University Online Education (OEd)

AMA University Online Education (OEd) is the first full online education platform in the Philippines, pioneering flexible and accessible learning for Filipino students worldwide. OEd allows learners to study anytime and anywhere through a comprehensive digital platform designed to adapt to every student’s pace and lifestyle. Offering a wide range of degree programs and courses, OEd continues to champion innovation in education—empowering future-ready professionals for the demands of the modern world.

PH COOP CHAMBER CALLS FOR A CORRUPTION-FREE SOCIETY

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The Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives, Inc. or PH Coop Chamber, the nation’s leading advocacy center for cooperatives, emphasizes the significant but often underestimated role of cooperatives in nation-building as drivers of good governance, in celebration of the National Cooperative Month this October.

Lobbying for the revision of Republic Act No. 9520 or the Cooperative Code of 2008, the organization highlights the contributions of cooperatives in strengthening the local and national economy, not only by generating jobs and providing livelihoods to millions of poor and marginalized Filipinos, but also by infusing capital to provide business opportunities in various grassroots communities all throughout the country.

On this note that the PH Coop Chamber calls for a society with a government that is free of any form of corruption as this heavily impacts the operation and management of cooperatives, and the lives of the members of the cooperatives as well.

Following the National Taxation Forum organized by the PH Coop Chamber on October 9, 2025 in Quezon City, as attended by more than 200 cooperative leaders from different parts of the country, cooperatives raised concerns on the regulatory burden being imposed including the BIR requirement of TIN of individual coop members to be able to secure a Certificate of Tax Exemptions.

“The PH Coop Chamber challenges the validity of these revenue memorandum circulars before the Supreme Court, arguing that these issuances unlawfully restrict the tax exemption privileges granted to cooperatives under the Cooperative Code,” said Noel Raboy, Chairperson of the PH Coop Chamber.

The organization also requests the government to affirm the rights and privileges of cooperatives without being burdened by additional, legally unwarranted administrative requirements imposed strictly by regulatory agencies, which result to penalties amounting to as much as millions of pesos and leads to closure of cooperatives.

“It is the policy of the State to foster the growth and development of cooperatives, and its autonomy and independence must always be upheld as enshrined in our Constitution,” added Chairperson Raboy.

This issue on TIN requirement has already been addressed in the proposed revisions of the Cooperative Code as adopted in the Senate Bill No. 1431 or the consolidated bills amending Republic Act No. 9520. The PH Coop Chamber, as member of the Technical Working Group in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, is just awaiting the schedule of the Committee Meeting in the House of Representatives to finalize its version of the proposed revisions.

The PH Coop Chamber stresses that any revision in the Cooperative Code must always adhere to the internally-agreed cooperative values and principles, preserving the democratic, autonomous and people-centered nature of cooperatives. The organization will continue to advocate for the resolution of the different concerns affecting the operation of cooperatives for the welfare of the Filipino cooperators.