On the Spotlight!

  In a time that we are seeking trailblazers, Grace Bondad Nicolas proves that purpose-driven leadership can transform industries and communities. On April 28, 2025, at the 13th World Women Leadership Congress & Award held at Dusit Thani Manila, Nicolas was honored for her outstanding contributions to leadership and innovation, standing tall among global women leaders.   From the early buzz of registration to the dynamic panel discussions, the event celebrated excellence and the future of human resources. Dr. RL Bhatia, Founder of World CSR Day and the World Sustainability Congress, opened the day with a heartfelt note emphasizing sustainability, diversity, and human-centered leadership—values Nicolas lives by.   Keynote speaker Smiti Bhatt Deorah, Co-Founder and COO of AdvantageClub.Ai, shared insights on how AI is reshaping workplace engagement. This theme continued in a panel titled “Reimagining Workplace Excellence: Agentic AI-led Future of Recognition a...

  “Nation builders” are people who play a major role in creating, strengthening, or improving a country. They help shape a nation’s identity, economy, institutions, culture, and future. Nation builders can be political leaders, reformers, educators, entrepreneurs, military leaders, activists, artists, or even everyday citizens who contribute significantly to the development and unity of their society.   Examples of nation builders include:           •         Founding fathers like George Washington in the U.S.           •         Anti-colonial leaders like Mahatma Gandhi in India.           •         Educators and reformers like Nelson Mandela in South Africa.           •  ...

TopNewsAsia proudly unveils its April 2025 issue, shining the spotlight on six exceptional individuals who are setting new standards in leadership, innovation, and public service. This year’s “Men of the Year” cover story honors movers and shakers who have become the talk of the town—not just for their achievements, but for their relentless work ethic, often burning the midnight oil in pursuit of progress.   From transformative governance to impactful entrepreneurship, each honoree has demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence:             •           George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), is lauded for his visionary leadership in reshaping electoral processes, enhancing transparency, and upholding democratic integrity.             •        ...

A new petition for indirect contempt has been filed with the Supreme Court against the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and its officers for their failure to comply with the Supreme Court’s final and executory decision nullifying the closure of AMA Rural Bank of Mandaluyong, Inc. (AMA Bank). The petition, filed by the majority shareholders of AMA Bank, accuses BSP of intentionally disregarding the final judgment, thereby obstructing justice, disregarding due process of law, and causing irreparable harm to the bank and its depositors. The Supreme Court had earlier issued a definitive ruling declaring the closure of AMA Bank as illegal, mandating that the BSP take immediate action to restore AMA Bank to its status prior to the closure. The Supreme Court also issued an Entry of Judgment confirming that its ruling became final and executory on May 28, 2024. Despite these, the BSP, led by the members of its Monetary Board, persisted in filing a second motion for reconsideration, which pe...

  InCharge magazine proudly features Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia as its latest cover star, recognizing his trailblazing leadership in electoral reform, democracy, and governance. As the head of the Philippines’ election commission, Chairman Garcia has been at the forefront of modernizing the electoral process, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and voter empowerment.   With decades of experience in election law and public service, Chairman Garcia has earned a reputation as a visionary leader committed to strengthening the country’s democratic foundations. His work in safeguarding fair elections, implementing digital innovations, and enhancing voter education has positioned him as a transformative figure in Philippine politics.   Championing Electoral Reform and Transparency   Since assuming his role as COMELEC Chairman, Garcia has spearheaded key initiatives aimed at improving election integrity and accessibilit...

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) said the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2025, the country’s Largest all-Filipino book festival, concluded on a high note amid a highly festive atmosphere after four exciting days. The free four-day event attracted more than 40,000 visitors, further reaffirming its status as the country’s premier celebration focused solely on Filipino books, authors, and publishers. The NBDB, which founded the PBF in 2023, decided to hold the event at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. It was the perfect venue since PBF 2025 was not just a gathering of the who’s who in publishing but also a transformative moment for the local book publishing industry. There, the authors, publishers, educators, and readers gathered in an unprecedented show of support for Philippine  Festival goers enjoyed browsing the thousands of books for sale, participated in the various exhibits, storytelling sessions, and even workshops for aspiring authors and illustr...

(TAGAYTAY CITY, CAVITE – PHILIPPINES) The lush greens of Tagaytay Highlands recently witnessed a blend of sporting prowess and philanthropic spirit as the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, proudly presented by Isla LPG Corporation (ILC), took center stage. CEREMONIAL TEE. Tomoaki Asai, CEO of Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation and Jose Ricardo Delgado, Excom Chairman - Isla Petroleum & Gas Corporation,  tees off the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, a day of friendly competition and networking. A total of 110 golf enthusiasts who are also partners, customers and stakeholders graced the event. The day began with a hearty breakfast and acquaintances, setting the stage for a day filled with friendly competition and camaraderie. From its inception, the Isla Cup Golf Tournament’s objective is to thank its customers and partners for their trust and confidence.  The company regard their customers, clients and business partners as key drivers for their success. That is why they build thei...

MANILA, Philippines — Following the resounding success of its inaugural event, Haier Philippines is bringing back the Haier Run for Future Possibilities on May 25, 2025 (Sunday) at Block 20, MOA Complex, Seaside Blvd, Pasay City. Now on its second year, the run continues to blend fitness, fun, and a deeper purpose—supporting access to education for Filipino children. The 2025 edition carries forward Haier’s mission to go beyond home innovation and give back to communities. For every step taken by participants, Haier will donate to initiatives aimed at improving learning opportunities for the youth—making each stride truly meaningful. Race Details & Registration Participants can choose among three race categories: 3K  – PHP 900 5K  – PHP 1,000 10K  – PHP 1,200 All registered participants will receive a race kit that includes a singlet, RFID race bib, finisher’s medal, and a string bag. Runners in the 10K category will also receive an exclusive finisher’s shirt and band...

March 31, 2025 | Makati Shangri-La | InCharge Magazine: In an evening that gathered the country’s most influential names in diplomacy, governance, business, and media, Regional Director Emver Cortez of the Philippine Information Agency – National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) was honored as one of the “Leading Men” under InCharge Magazine last March 31 at the prestigious Makati Shangri-La. Recognized for his outstanding commitment to public service and effective government communication, Cortez has been a pillar of transparency and community engagement within the National Capital Region. His leadership at PIA-NCR has empowered citizens with timely, accurate, and people-centered information—bridging the gap between the government and the Filipino people.   More Than a Public Servant: A Voice for the People Aside from his role in public service, Director Emver Cortez is also the co-host of TopNewsAsia’s “Kapihan sa Makati”, a weekly media forum that brings together thought leaders, gover...

On a night that celebrated culture, elegance, and influence, fashion designer Kenny Ladaga took center stage at “Principalia”, held last March 31 at the prestigious Makati Shangri-La. Produced by TAG Media Group, under the visionary leadership of Grace Bondad Nicolas, the event highlighted not only the artistry of Filipino fashion but also the power of women making waves in society today. As part of Asia Leaders Awards’ People to Watch 2025, the runway was graced by real-life muses —remarkable women whose work and leadership are shaping the present and future of the Philippines. In Kenny Ladaga’s couture creations, these Women of Power and Purpose embodied modern-day principalia: bold, empowered, and influential.   A Collection Rooted in Heritage, Refined for Today Kenny Ladaga’s collection for “Principalia” was a stunning homage to Filipino elegance. Each piece combined intricate craftsmanship with contemporary flair—flowing silhouettes, hand-embroidered details, rich f...