On the Spotlight!

Music lovers are in for a treat as Sotogrande Hotel and Convention Center Batangas, in partnership with Approche Hospitality Management, proudly presents “A Perfect Night with True Faith” on November 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Spend an unforgettable evening with the legendary OPM band True Faith, performing their greatest hits live on stage. The night will also feature Agape Band as the front act, setting the mood for an exciting celebration of Filipino music and artistry. Ticket Prices: VIP – ₱2,500 Gold – ₱1,500 General Admission – ₱1,000 Special Promo: Enjoy an overnight stay in a Superior Room with breakfast and two (2) Gold tickets for only ₱5,500 NET. Celebrate great music, warm hospitality, and the vibrant spirit of Batangas in one Perfect Night at Sotogrande Hotel and Convention Center Batangas. For inquiries and reservations: +63 962 975 8794 | reservations.batangas@sotograndehotels.com

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia met with around 60 ambassadors and consuls from various countries to provide a direct and transparent briefing on the developments surrounding the postponed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections. Chairman Garcia emphasized that the briefing aimed to ensure that the international community receives accurate information “straight from the horse’s mouth,” preventing misinformation or speculation stemming from unverified reports.   “We requested their presence so we can personally brief them on what happened in Bangsamoro — why the elections did not push through — so they can hear it directly from us, not just from what they see or read in the media,” Garcia said. “It’s better that the information comes from us, so there is no fake news or misinformation.” During the meeting, Chairman Garcia gave the Diplomatic Corps a firm assurance that the COMELEC remains fully committed to con...

by Grace Bondad Nicolas We live in a modern world — or at least, that’s what we like to think about this generation. But still, cruelty seems to have found a comfortable home, both online and in real life. Social media has become a battleground of opinions and egos, while in the real world, we see groups forming, excluding, and judging others as if unkindness were a badge of superiority. I belong to many groups, and yes, I’ve experienced bullying. The difference is, I can now look back at them with fierce and confident eyes. People will look at you and talk behind your back. Some will choose silence, refusing to acknowledge you even when you’re part of the same organization. Others will act entitled, as if the world owes them validation. And yes — I’m talking about you. The irony is that many of these same people are also fighting their own battles — dealing with pain, insecurities, and fears. Yet instead of healing, they project their struggles outward, hurting others with the same pa...

Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, making memories with your kids and fur babies, or simply out to enjoy the run with friends, McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 is the run that should be on your calendar to end the year! Get ready for Stripes Run 2025 on December 7, 2025 at the SM MOA Concert Grounds! It’s more than a race, it’s a feel-good experience where families, friends, and fur babies run together for fun and for a cause. Here’s why you and your family and friends should register and be part of Stripes Run 2025!   1.   Everyone’s welcome! Now in its 14th year, Stripes Run is all about togetherness. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast out to achieve your next goal, a casual runner enjoying the moment, a parent running with your kid, or a fur parent with your pet by your side, there's a spot for you in this race.   2.   Sulit price! McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 is an event that lets you get moving, give back, and go home with something to show off and a story t...

  On October 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Los Baños (PCCI-LB) hosted a farewell gathering for Mr. Martin Pandapotan , the Trade Attaché of the Embassy of Indonesia in Manila, at Danielitos Restaurant in Bay, Laguna. The intimate event was organized by PCCI-LB Board Director Dar Sosa, in honor of the Trade Attaché’s strong partnership and friendship with the local business community. For the past two years, Mr. Pandapotan has been a valuable ally and friend of PCCI Los Baños, strengthening ties between Filipino and Indonesian entrepreneurs. His close collaboration with PCCI-LB President Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas and Business Development Head Dar Sosa led to two successful Business Trade Missions to Jakarta, Indonesia, which opened doors for future joint ventures and investment opportunities.   Through these efforts, PCCI Los Baños developed a meaningful relationship with His Excellency Indonesian Ambassador Agus Wi...

At the heart of the country’s most magical destination, Enchanted Kingdom in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, the province’s tourism industry opened a new chapter—one marked by unity, empowerment , and shared vision . On October 22, 2025, more than a hundred leaders and entrepreneurs gathered for the first Laguna Tourism Council Meeting under the administration of Governor Sol Aragones. Among the distinguished attendees was Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas , President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Los Baños (PCCI-LB), who was personally invited by Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon , President of the Laguna Tourism Council and Chief Operating Officer of Enchanted Kingdom. For Nicolas, this gathering was more than an event but it was a reflection of the values she has long stood for: collaboration, inclusivity, and leadership with heart.   “It was my privilage to be part of this historical event with big businesses in Laguna that caters the Tourism sector. I am glad that I attended and m...

  As a member of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Quezon City (PCCI-QC), the PCCI National organization, and the dynamic President of PCCI Los Baños, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas continues to champion innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration across the Philippine business landscape.   Under her visionary leadership, PCCI Los Baños proudly participated in the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) held on October 20 up to 21, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, headed by the Visionary Dennis Anthony Uy of Converge, with the theme “The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation.” The event gathered the country’s top policymakers, industry leaders, and business innovators to discuss how technology and digitalization are shaping the nation’s economic future. Among the distinguished speakers were Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda , Globe Telecom President & CEO Carl Cruz , ...