On the Spotlight!

    The creation of the Association of R eservists and Reservist Organizations of the Philippines, Inc. (ARRAPI) in March 2024 marked a historic turning point for the Philippine reservist sector. What began as a vision to strengthen reservist participation quickly evolved into a nationwide movement. Following the National Reservist Convention in 2023, a group of leaders came together to establish a unified organization committed to advocating for reservists, strengthening their role in national defense, and advancing their integration into the Philippine Total Defense Force (TDF). At the forefront of this transformation was Mikee Romero , who served as ARRAPI Chairman for 2024–2026 . Under his leadership, ARRAPI pursued a clearer and more unified direction, giving greater visibility to the vital contribution of reservists to the country’s defense and national preparedness. Romero’s participation was instrumental in helping shape ARRAPI from a newly established organiz...

  LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA – A new chapter in Philippine education unfolded as the Municipality of Los Baños officially launched the Rizal Classrooms of the Future (RCOF) at the Los Baños Central Elementary School, coinciding with the 165th Birth Anniversary of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal last June 19, 2026. The innovative learning facility, led by Hon. Mayor Neil Andrew Nocon , reflects Los Baños’ commitment to creating future-ready classrooms where technology, creativity, and national identity come together. The RCOF features a modern classroom design equipped with digital learning tools, including tablets customized with the life, works, and legacy of Dr. Rizal, allowing students to discover history through a more interactive and engaging approach.   A major force behind the completion of the project is the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Los Baños (PCCI–Los Baños) through the generous support and initiative of former Congressman Brig. Gen. Mic...

  Readers and industry leaders gathered at National Book Store, Araneta City, Cubao on August 14, 2026, for a special Top News Asia magazine signing hosted by TAG Media Group during The Philippine Readers and Writers Festival 2026. Spearheaded by TAG Media Group President and Editor-in-Chief Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas ,   the event brought together two powerful guest speakers: Comelec Chairman Atty. George Erwin Mojica Garcia ; and corporate leader, former Congressman, and PAF Reserve Officer Brig. Gen. Michael “Mikee” Lagman Romero. Attendees enjoyed an engaging Q&A session where the guest leaders shared behind-the-scenes stories from their careers and national service. Noting the significant role that young voters played in the recent election, Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia emphasized that an informed electorate—driven by an empowered youth—is the most reliable engine for sustained national progress. He called on leaders across both the public and priv...

   For championing inclusivity and resilience by empowering single mothers through MaPanatag, Allianz PNB Life earned the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Initiative of the Year at the prestigious 2026 Insurance Asia Awards held in Singapore. The recognition highlights organizations that make meaningful progress in environmental responsibility, social upliftment, and strong governance — values that guide MaPanatag at its core.   “Through MaPanatag, we sought to address the realities faced by millions of single mothers in the Philippines by giving them the support and confidence to build a more secure future for themselves and their families. We share this award with all of them for pushing us to create solutions with purpose and meaningful impact. At Allianz PNB Life, we believe that true inclusion means creating solutions that reflect the diverse realities of the people we serve. And as we continue to serve, we remain dedicated to developing more initiat...

  Putting the spotlight on the next generation of Filipino artists. The 9th Ortigas Art Festival elevates creativity through its free multidisciplinary art showcase at GH Mall from July 16 to 31, 2026. For the first time, it launched the Ortigas Art Competitionto support up-and-coming Filipino artists. (In the photo: Ortigas Art Competitionfinalists  with [middle, L-R] Monique Castaneda, Ortigas Malls AVP, Head of Marketing; Renato Habulan, Ortigas Art Festival Head Curator and Consultant; San Juan City Vice Mayor Jose Angelo Rafael Agcaoili; and Arch. Renee Bacani, Ortigas Land Vice President and Head of Ortigas Malls) The 9th Ortigas Art Festival transforms GH Mall into a free multidisciplinary festival of creativity. From July 16 to 31, 2026 , visitors can explore various contemporary art galleries in the middle of the mall, catch independent film screenings, witness live performances, and   learn new skills through interactive workshops. This year’s theme, “ Elevate ,...

  In a culture that celebrates constant movement and productivity, rest has quietly become a solitary act—something squeezed in between obligations rather than shared and celebrated. At its recent Bright Healthy Radiance event held at Longevity Labs, Cetaphil set out to change that narrative, reframing recovery not just as a physical necessity after exercise, but as an emotional and communal experience rooted in care, connection, and the spirit of being a “girl’s girl.”   Titled “Gentle Is a Girl’s Power Move,” the event brought together wellness, skincare, and community to spotlight a simple but often overlooked truth: recovery is better when it’s shared. In a world where self-care is often individualized, Cetaphil reintroduced the idea of collective rest—encouraging women to check in on one another, to pause together, and to rediscover the quiet strength in choosing gentleness.   “Today, we’re redefining what strength looks like,” said Galderma’s Head of Market...

Some days can feel like they’re on repeat—same routine, same tasks, same quick pauses in between. That’s why even the smallest breaks deserve something fun, flavorful, and exciting to brighten the day. Turning an ordinary moment into something memorable can be as simple as stepping away from the screen and sharing a quick snack break with friends.  Enter the new Magic Chips Thin & Crispy, a lighter twist to the well-loved Magic Chips designed to transform ordinary breaktimes into truly magical moments. Seamlessly combining the satisfying crunch of chips with the familiar sarap of crackers ( chips na, crackers pa! ), it delivers a uniquely light, airy, and flavorful bite.  Made thinner and crispier than ever before, Magic Chips Thin & Crispy is baked, not fried. This gives snack lovers a delicious, guilt-free muncharap experience they can enjoy anytime they need a light breather from their busy schedules.  Available in delicious BBQ (Barbeque) and Sour Cream ...

Purpose, compassion, and leadership took center stage as Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas, President of Rising Tigers Magazine and co-founder of TAG Media Group, was presented as the Mrs. Universe Philippines Queen Ambassadress 2026 during the Grand Coronation Night on June 28, 2026, at The Tent City of The Manila Hotel. A respected media executive and advocate for positive change, Grace exemplifies the modern Filipina leader, one who uses her platform to inspire, educate, and make a meaningful difference in society.  As Queen Ambassadress, she carries forward her advocacies of Public Awareness and Animal Welfare, causes that have shaped her personal and professional journey. Believing that information empowers communities, Grace has dedicated much of her career to promoting public awareness through media and communications. Through the establishment of TAG Media and Public Relations, she has created platforms that deliver timely, relevant, and meaningful information, encouraging inform...

In photo: Mr. Sriranga Sampathkumar (Vice President and Global Head of Sales, Finacle) and Mr. Cecilio "Paul" D. San Pedro (President and CEO, Sterling Bank of Asia) Bangalore, India and Manila, Philippines – June 26, 2026: Infosys Finacle, part of EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY), a global leader in AI-first business consulting and technology services, and Sterling Bank of Asia (Sterling Bank), one of the most progressive banks in the Philippines, today announced the bank’s decision to select Infosys Finacle Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform for its transformation program. Sterling Bank has opted to leverage the Finacle Core Banking, Finacle Customer Data Hub, Finacle Trade Finance, and Finacle Origination solutions for its requirements. Through this strategic collaboration with Infosys Finacle, Sterling Bank expects to enhance the experience of both employees and customers, maintain high standards of availability and re...

  Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) and the Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PhilGuarantee) have officially sealed their partnership, marking the launch of a ₱5-billion Housing Retail Guarantee Facility. This collaboration combines the strengths of the public and private sector to broaden home financing access for Filipino families. From left to right: Teresito Cayo A. Butardo (SVP & Housing Guarantee Group Head, PhilGuarantee); Alberto E. Pascual (President & CEO, PhilGuarantee); Cecilio Paul San Pedro (President & CEO, Sterling Bank of Asia); and Candice P. Quianzon (SVP & Head of Real Estate Loans 1, Sterling Bank of Asia) A Strategic Vision for Greater Access PhilGuarantee President and CEO Alberto E. Pascual and SBA President and CEO Cecilio Paul San Pedro led the signing ceremony, highlighting institutional synergy and a shared vision for community impact. “In banking, partnerships matter. No single institution can address every challenge on its own. Bu...

Through SM Cares, SM Supermalls supported the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela 2026 as part of its continuing commitment to youth empowerment, nation-building, and community service. In time for the start of classes, participating SM teams from its most-loved malls nationwide worked hand in hand with partner schools to help create learning environments that are cleaner, safer, and more inspiring for students and teachers. Guided by this year’s theme, “Bayanihan sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman,” SM employee-volunteers, together with school communities, local partners, teachers, parents, and volunteers, came together to help prepare public schools for the opening of classes. The volunteer activities included general cleaning of classrooms, corridors, and school grounds; repainting and repair of walls, furniture, and school facilities; minor repairs and carpentry work on doors, windows, desks, and chairs; landscaping and school garden care; school supply do...