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Zeal Residences and the Rise of First-Home Communities in General Trias

By
PhilSociety
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Where convenience meets opportunity—welcome to smarter South living.

As connectivity improves across Cavite, SMDC Nature’s Zeal Residences is attracting young professionals and starting families looking for accessibility, practicality, and long-term value within an emerging growth corridor. 

There was a time when moving further south often meant sacrificing convenience for affordability.

Today, that equation is rapidly changing.

Across General Trias, infrastructure expansion, commercial growth, and rising investment activity are transforming the city into one of Cavite’s most promising residential corridors — reshaping how many Filipinos think about first-home ownership.

For many buyers today, the priority is no longer about owning the biggest property possible. It’s about finding a home that feels attainable, practical for everyday life, and connected to emerging opportunities.

This is where Zeal Residences enters the conversation.

Located within a growing district in General Trias, the 6.5-hectare residential community was designed for young professionals, starting families, and practical investors looking for a more accessible way to enter the property market while remaining connected to Metro Manila and nearby growth centers.

More than scale or luxury, the development focuses on practicality, accessibility, and everyday livability.

Infrastructure That’s Already Changing Everyday Life

Much of General Trias’ transformation can already be seen in how people move around the region today.

The recent opening of CALAX Subsection 3 has improved connectivity between Cavite and Laguna, helping reduce travel time across key routes and making access to major residential, commercial, and employment areas more efficient.

At the same time, projects such as the LRT Line 1 Extension and the continued expansion of CAVITEX continue to strengthen Cavite’s connection to Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.

For residents, these developments are more than infrastructure headlines. They directly affect daily routines — from commuting to work and visiting family, to accessing business districts, retail centers, and essential services more conveniently.

A Location Supported by Real Economic Activity

Beyond infrastructure, General Trias continues to benefit from growing commercial and employment activity.

Major retail destinations such as SM City Rosario, SM City Tanza, and Robinsons Place General Trias support everyday convenience, while nearby industrial zones, business hubs, and mixed-use developments continue to generate employment opportunities across the area.

This balance between livability and economic activity is part of what makes General Trias increasingly attractive to young professionals and starting families looking to establish more permanent roots outside Metro Manila.

Within the community itself, Zeal Residences features 12 low-rise residential buildings and over 2,000 thoughtfully planned units, with layouts designed around functionality and everyday usability.

Rather than oversized luxury, the development focuses on functional spaces designed around how many Filipinos live today — especially first-time homeowners seeking attainable ownership without compromising accessibility.

Designed for living, built for long-term value.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing to Enter Earlier

In many ways, Zeal Residences reflects a broader shift happening among Filipino homebuyers.

Property ownership today is increasingly viewed less as a status symbol and more as a practical long-term decision — one tied to stability, future security, and financial growth.

For some buyers, that means moving beyond years of renting. For others, it means entering the property market earlier while emerging areas like General Trias continue to develop and appreciate in value.

As infrastructure projects continue to expand across Cavite, more buyers are recognizing the advantage of entering emerging residential corridors earlier — before demand and property values rise further.

This is what makes General Trias’ transformation particularly compelling today.

The momentum is no longer theoretical. It is already visible in the roads being completed, businesses expanding into the area, and residential communities steadily rising across Cavite’s southern corridor.

At SMDC Nature’s Zeal Residences, buyers are not simply purchasing a home — they are entering a community at a stage where long-term potential is still unfolding.

Discover more about Zeal Residences and its available offerings at www.smdcnature.com/properties/zeal-residences/

Kalayaan 2026 Returns as the UAE’s Biggest Filipino Celebration

By
PhilSociety
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Thousands of Filipinos across the UAE are expected to gather once again as Kalayaan 2026 returns on June 7, 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre Halls 1 & 2.

Known as the Middle East’s largest and most iconic Philippine Independence Day celebration, Kalayaan continues to bring together Filipino music, culture, food, entertainment, and community spirit in one large-scale event.

Organized by Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities, and The Filipino Channel (TFC), with the support of D&R Elegant Events and Urban Grid Group with VivaOne, the event continues to grow as one of the UAE Filipino community’s most anticipated annual celebrations.

A Celebration Powered by Music, Culture, and Filipino Pride

This year’s edition will feature special performances from actress-singer Arci Muñoz, P-pop girl group G22, and P-pop boy group 1st.One, alongside musical showcases and cultural presentations from Filipino cultural groups across the Emirates.

Beyond the performances, attendees can expect immersive activities, interactive exhibits, family-friendly attractions, and the return of the crowd-favorite Kalayaan Food Village, featuring Filipino and multicultural culinary favorites that reflect the diversity of the UAE itself.

For many Filipinos living and working abroad, Kalayaan has become more than an annual celebration — it has become a familiar space that feels like home.

With over one million Filipinos residing across the UAE, the event has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated Filipino gatherings, drawing families, professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, youth leaders, diplomats, brands, media, and organizations in a shared celebration of identity and belonging.

More Than an Event

While Kalayaan is widely recognized for its scale and entertainment, organizers emphasized that its deeper purpose has always been creating shared spaces for Filipinos abroad.

“Kalayaan has always been about creating meaningful connections,” shared Elena C. Cruz, Founder and CEO of Infinite Communities. “It is a space where culture, collaboration, and shared experiences come together — not only for Filipinos, but for the wider UAE audience as well.”

The official launch of Kalayaan 2026 was recently held at B-Hub, BurJuman Mall, gathering government representatives, media, partners, and supporters ahead of next year’s celebration.

Among those present were Honourable Consul General Ambrosio Enciso III of the Philippine Consulate General Dubai and Northern Emirates, Atty. John Rio Bautista, Labour Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office, Ruba Nesly, Head of Content of Emirates Loves Philippines, Audielyn Avecilla-Riola, EMEA Regional Events Business Unit Head of ABS-CBN, alongside Infinite Communities leaders Elena C. Cruz and Josie Conlu.

A Shared Celebration for Filipinos in the UAE

Kalayaan 2026 is supported by the Philippine Embassy, Philippine Consulate General Dubai and Northern Emirates, Migrant Workers Office, Dubai Police, Positive Spirit, Hemaya International, and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs–Dubai (GDRFA Dubai).

Open to all nationalities, Kalayaan continues to stand as a celebration not only of Philippine independence, but of the enduring connections Filipinos create wherever they are in the world.

On June 7, 2026, Dubai World Trade Centre will once again become a vibrant home for Filipino culture, entertainment, and shared pride in the Middle East.

Fossil Reveals Limited-Edition The Mandalorian-Inspired Watch Collection

By
PhilSociety
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The world of The Mandalorian™ has always lived in the details — from worn beskar armor and quiet moments aboard the Razor Crest to the unlikely bond between Din Djarin and Grogu. For longtime Star Wars fans, those details are part of what transformed the series into one of the franchise’s most beloved modern stories.

Now, Fossil translates that universe into a new limited-edition watch collection inspired by the theatrical release of The Mandalorian and Grogu™.

The collection includes the Everett Mandalorian Watch, priced at ₱23,050, a collector watch that channels the look and spirit of Din Djarin’s battle-worn armor. Built with a gunmetal stainless steel case and bracelet, the 42MM design draws directly from the Mandalorian aesthetic, with a layered dial inspired by armor plating, luminous indexes, and Razor Crest-inspired handset detailing that subtly mirrors the bounty hunter’s tactical precision.

At the center sits the Clan Mudhorn emblem — a symbol longtime viewers recognize as representing loyalty, protection, and the bond that reshaped Din Djarin’s journey throughout the series.

Even the experience of opening the watch box feels immersive. The custom collector packaging features a built-in sound detail that plays Din Djarin’s unmistakable line: “This is the way.” It’s the kind of detail that instantly pulls fans back into the series’ world.

Alongside it is the Neutra Grogu Watch, available for ₱21,250, a piece that captures the charm and curiosity of the galaxy’s most beloved Foundling. Featuring a 38MM silver stainless steel case paired with a robe-inspired suede strap, the design balances softer visual elements with references longtime viewers will immediately recognize.

Its green dial recreates a playful Grogu moment in intricate detail, complete with the tiny Foundling levitating a leaping snack. Pram-inspired textures, glowing lume accents, and disc hands add another layer of storytelling, while original Star Wars artwork etched on the caseback shows Grogu completely in his element.

The packaging continues the narrative experience. Open the custom display box and you’ll hear a familiar exchange between Din Djarin and Grogu: “Spit that out,” followed by Grogu’s unmistakable giggle — a small but memorable callback fans of the series instantly understand.

More than character-inspired accessories, the release leans fully into the culture of Star Wars collecting. Each watch is individually numbered and presented with exclusive pins, authenticity certificates, and custom packaging that elevate the collection into something made for longtime fans who value the storytelling behind every detail.

Fossil’s latest collaboration offers another way to stay connected to a universe that continues to resonate across generations, translating iconic elements from The Mandalorian™ into collector pieces designed with both storytelling and craftsmanship in mind.

The limited-edition The Mandalorian™ and Grogu™ collection is available at select Fossil retail stores including SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Clark, SM Southmall, SM Lanang, SM Baguio, Ayala Center Cebu, Ayala Malls Abreeza, Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Magnolia, and Evia Lifestyle Center.

Follow @FOSSIL to stay current on future launches.

Ayala Malls Refreshes Trinoma with New Dining and Retail Options, Upgraded Spaces

By
PhilSociety
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Trinoma by Ayala Malls introduces refreshed spaces and new dining and retail options that respond to the way people move through Quezon City every day, making familiar routines feel easier, more comfortable, and more rewarding.

The updates bring a more vibrant and relaxed atmosphere across the mall, from reimagined social areas to greener open spaces and an expanded lineup of cafés and restaurants. Together, these create more opportunities for visitors to meet and enjoy everyday moments.

“What’s important now is how these changes are reflected in the way people experience the space,” said Paul Birkett, Chief Operating Officer of Ayala Malls. “Trinoma has always been a place where people come together, and these updates build on that, making it feel more welcoming, relevant, and part of everyday life in Quezon City.”

“At Trinoma, we’ve focused on making the mall easier and more enjoyable to navigate and spend time in,” he added. “That means refreshing the space, broadening the range of dining, shopping and social options, and creating a more comfortable environment for people during their visits.”

Dining and Cafes

In Trinoma’s Mindanao Lobby, now redesigned as a social hub, visitors can explore an expanded and elevated dining and café mix featuring H Proper Coffee Roasters, Little Flour, Pizza Sisters, Burnt Bean, alongside soon-to-open additions such as Key Coffee, Chili’s, and Cibo. This refreshed lineup reflects a wider dining upgrade across the mall, bringing more variety to the overall food offering, for quick coffee runs, casual meet-ups, and longer catch-ups.

Events and Gatherings

The Activity Center has also been upgraded with refreshed interiors and a high-impact LED screen. A familiar venue in Quezon City for concerts, events, and community gatherings, it now offers a brighter, more engaging setting for shared experiences within the mall.

Outdoor and Green Spaces

Trinoma’s well-loved garden areas and al fresco dining spaces have been enhanced. With added greenery, more open seating, and a play park for children, these spaces now offer more room for families and friends to relax, dine, and spend time together.

Shopping and Essentials

Shoppers can explore key stores across the mall, including the first IKEA Plan and Order Shop in Quezon City, and Anko’s largest store in the Philippines. These brands are part of Trinoma’s evolving lineup, with more options set to be introduced across the mall, including upcoming arrivals such as Love Bonito, Vivaia, JD Sports, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, and Wilson.

These completed upgrades are designed to make everyday visits more seamless and enjoyable, whether it’s a quick stop, a casual meet-up, or a full day out.

The enhancements come ahead of Trinoma’s next phase of growth. Later this year, the mall will expand with The Exchange at Trinoma, a new retail and office wing that will introduce additional retail and dining options, including ABC-Mart Grand Stage’s first location in the North. The Exchange at Trinoma will also serve as a convenient connection point for commuters.

Paul Birkett and Anne Gauthier at the Ayala Malls Reinvention Launch

This expansion is linked to Trinoma’s direct integration with the Unified Grand Central Station, making it the only mall in Quezon City with direct access to the MRT-3, MRT-7, and LRT-1 lines, alongside UV Express, bus terminals, and point-to-point services. Once fully operational, this will make getting to and from Trinoma more convenient for people moving across the metro.

With refreshed spaces now open and more developments underway, Trinoma continues to evolve as part of everyday life in the North — showing how Ayala Malls creates places that help make daily routines smoother, more connected, and more enjoyable.

For more information, visit www.ayalamalls.com or follow Ayala Malls on social media via facebook.com/AyalaMalls360 or @iloveayalamalls in Instagram.

SM Hotels Names Kits Pinga as Club General Manager of Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club

By
PhilSociety
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Kits Pinga

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly announces the appointment of Kits Pinga as Club General Manager of Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club.

A seasoned hospitality and club management executive, Pinga brings more than 20 years of expertise across the hospitality, fitness, and leisure industries. His appointment marks another significant step in SMHCC’s continuing commitment to strengthening operational excellence and enhancing the overall member and guest engagement within its growing portfolio of premier leisure destinations.

Prior to joining Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club, Pinga served as General Manager of Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club, where he oversaw overall club operations, financial management, customer relations, and business development initiatives. Throughout his career, he has held management roles in several respected golf and country clubs, including Dakak Golf Club Inc., Calatagan Golf Club Inc., Valley Golf and Country Club, and Alabang Country Club.

Known for his hands-on approach and strong operational discipline, Pinga has built a reputation for elevating service standards while cultivating meaningful relationships with members, guests, and teams alike. His extensive background in managing recreational and membership-driven properties positions him well to lead Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club into its next chapter of growth and excellence.

Located in Nasugbu, Batangas, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club is recognized as one of the country’s premier coastal leisure communities, offering a unique blend of nature, wellness, recreation, and exclusive membership privileges. Under Pinga’s stewardship, the Club aims to further strengthen its position as a preferred destination for families, leisure seekers, and members seeking a well-rounded lifestyle community outside Metro Manila.

In his new role, Pinga will oversee the Club’s overall administration and day-to-day affairs, ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives, service standards, and member engagement initiatives. He is expected to lead efforts focused on operational efficiency, community-building, and the continuous enhancement of the Club’s lifestyle and recreational offerings.

“I am honored to join Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club and be part of a community that has become synonymous with leisure, wellness, and meaningful connections,” said Pinga. “I look forward to working closely with the team in further strengthening the Club’s service culture, enhancing member benefits, and continuing to build on Pico de Loro’s reputation as one of the country’s premier lifestyle and leisure destinations.”

As SMHCC expands its footprint in the country, the appointment of Pinga reinforces the company’s drive to cultivate transformative leadership, elevate guest experiences, and champion world-class Filipino hospitality across its roster of brands.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

Back-to-school shopping? Here’s why Anko is a must-visit for your kids’ school needs

By
PhilSociety
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Silicone bento lunchbox (₱ 550), Croissant notebook (₱ 220) & Dual function drink bottle (₱ 520) — Courtesy of Anko

It is the time of the year again when parents and children gear up for another school year. It can get hectic with long lists, crowded stores, and multiple errands; the experience  can  quickly  feel  overwhelming  for  even  the  most  organized  parents.

While most families already have their usual shopping stops, many are starting to add an unexpected name to their back-to-school rotation.

Known for its quality, stylish, and affordable home and lifestyle products, Anko has become a reliable destination for affordable school-ready finds. From cute notebooks and organizers to durable lunch gear and study space upgrades, the Australian brand offers a selection designed to help families create brighter school days with less stress and more ease.

A smarter way to tackle the back-to-school list

Beyond the obvious essentials, the start of the school year brings the challenge of creating routines and spaces that help kids stay motivated throughout the year. At Anko, even the most basic school supplies come with playful, stylish details that make everyday studying feel less routine and more like a creative outlet.

It is also the perfect time to refresh the home study setup. Desk organizers and pegboards can instantly make a study nook feel calmer and more functional, helping students focus while keeping clutter under control.

And Anko has tons of quality and affordable supplies and essentials all under ₱100. This includes affordable erasers, sharpeners, pencil cases, sticky notes, and more.

Mealtime essentials matter just as much as what is inside the backpack. Durable lunchboxes and drink bottles have become must-haves for parents looking for reliable options that can withstand the daily school grind, while remaining fun enough that kids actually look forward to bringing them to class.

When buying school essentials, pick options within your price range for your kids to choose from. After all, the most sulit supplies are the ones students actually feel excited to use every day. Anko’s stationery includes a wide selection of everyday school supplies priced as low as ₱20 to ₱100. Whether it’s the start of the school year or a mid-term top-up, parents and students can stock up on the basics without stretching the budget.

Cable organizer (₱490), Cable management box (₱490), Magnetic whiteboard (₱290), Desktop pegboard set (₱1,400) & assortment of stationery ranging from erasers, sharpeners, correction tape and more, starting from ₱20 — Anko

Get ready for back-to-school

To make the back-to-school shopping experience even more fun, Anko is hosting a free Bento Box Workshop on June 6 at its Ayala Malls Feliz branch. Families can learn how to prepare fun, school-ready meals that kids will actually look forward to eating.

Interested parents and kids can register for free using the Anko Club app (anko.com/anko-club) or by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and Facebook. Joining the club unlocks exclusive activities, workshops, and member perks, including access to seasonal in-store experiences throughout the year.

Because when back-to-school shopping feels easier, the school year already starts a little brighter.

For more information, visit https://anko.com/ph/.

The Manila Hotel Joins Goût de France 2026 with Refined French Dining Experience

By
PhilSociety
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Course des Garçons de Café 3rd place - Lexter Guanzon

The Manila Hotel joins the global celebration of Goût de France 2026 with a refined French dining experience at the hotel’s iconic Champagne Room until May 31, 2026.

Guests are invited to delight in a set menu that highlights the richness and sophistication of French cuisine, specially prepared by The Manila Hotel’s culinary team led by Executive Chef Konrad Walter. The Goût de France menu features a classic progression of French flavors, beginning with Puy Lentil Salad with Smoked Duck Breast, followed by Three Onion Soup with Brie Croutons. For the main course, guests may savor Roast Rack of Lamb in Herb Crust served with rosemary garlic jus, accompanied by gratin potato, and market vegetables. The experience concludes with a selection of French cheese, Apple Tart with Frangipane, French macarons, and choice of coffee or tea.

Further highlighting its participation in the international celebration, The Manila Hotel also took part in the Course des Garçons de Café or Waiter’s Race held last May 17 during “Makati Street Meet presents Goût de France.” Representatives from Champagne Room proudly placed 2nd and 3rd, with Alfonso Punzalan and Lexter Guanzon receiving the honors, respectively. The event was also graced by Her Excellency Marie Fontanel, Ambassador of France to the Philippines and Micronesia.

“At The Manila Hotel, we honor global culinary traditions. Our yearly participation in Goût de France reflect our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that connect culture, cuisine, and community,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph. 

Conrad Manila Strengthens Culinary Excellence with the Appointment of a New Food and Beverage Director and Indian Chef

By
PhilSociety
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From Right: Jaquelyn Sunderarajo, Conrad Manila’s Director of Food & Beverage; Vikram Singh, new Indian Chef

Committed to elevating gastronomic experiences, the luxury hotel by the iconic Manila Bay welcomes new leaders set to introduce fresh and innovative dining concepts.

Conrad Manila is delighted to welcome distinguished additions to its culinary leadership team: Vikram Singh as Indian Chef and Jaquelyn Sunderarajo as Director of Food and Beverage. With their extensive experience and refined expertise, guests can anticipate elevated offerings and thoughtfully curated culinary experiences across the hotel’s signature dining venues.

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome new reinforcements to the culinary powerhouse of Conrad Manila,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of the hotel. “We began the year with exceptional dining experiences, and guests can look forward to even more remarkable moments in the months ahead, especially as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, with Jaquelyn’s strategic direction and Chef Vikram’s passion for authentic cuisine.”

Jaquelyn Sunderarajo brings with her over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having held leadership roles across some of Singapore’s most well-known hotel brands. Prior to joining Conrad Manila, she led one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most complex food and beverage operations at Hilton Singapore Orchard. She is recognized for driving guest satisfaction, delivering strong commercial performance, and fostering high-performing teams, alongside introducing innovative and compelling dining concepts.

Chef Vikram Singh offers a uniquely inspiring journey into the culinary arts, having spent nearly two decades in the corporate world before pursuing his true passion. Guided by his mother’s culinary heritage, he undertook formal training in international cuisine before deepening his expertise in North Indian gastronomy under her mentorship, continuing a rich family legacy. Today, he is dedicated to showcasing traditional and often lesser-known North Indian cuisines, such as mughlai and awadhi, while preserving their authenticity through the thoughtful use of seasonal ingredients.

Together with Conrad Manila’s Executive Chef and its award-winning culinary team, they have already begun introducing exceptional dining concepts that continue to captivate epicureans and hotel guests alike.

Curries of the World at Brasserie on 3

The Philippines’ Biggest Dessert Buffet at Brasserie on 3

Featuring over 100 meticulously crafted desserts, Conrad Manila unveils Wonderland Reverie, an imaginative and indulgent dessert buffet at Brasserie on 3. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the experience presents seven curated stations that reimagine the classic tale through exquisite sweets and savory creations, inviting guests into a journey of fantasy and flavor.

Wonderland Reverie
25 April to 31 July 2026 
Saturdays and Sundays 
PHP 2,500 nett per person

Signature Curries Across the World at Brasserie on 3

As part of the refreshed themed dinner offerings for 2026, Curries of the World presents a rich and aromatic exploration of curry traditions from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and India, among others. Highlights also include a dedicated laksa station and an array of curated desserts.

Curries of the World
Wednesdays & Thursdays
Until 31 December 2026
PHP 3,600 nett per person

Hermès-inspired Afternoon Tea Indulgence at C Lounge

Conrad Manila invites guests to experience Heures d’Orange, a bespoke Hermès-inspired afternoon tea at C Lounge, curated in collaboration with The Amenity Studio. Available from 27 April to 31 July 2026, this limited-time offering explores the harmony of fragrance and flavor, pairing tea selections inspired by iconic Hermès scent profiles with an elegant assortment of artisanal pastries, refined savory bites, and delicate confections by the hotel’s award-winning pastry team.

Heures d’Orange
27 April to 31 July 2026
12:00pm to 6:00pm
PHP 3,288 ++ per set

As Conrad Manila celebrates its 10th anniversary this June, the hotel looks forward to unveiling more exceptional dining experiences defined by luxury, innovation, and purposeful hospitality. For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.


Queer Ways of Knowing: Reimagining Gender, Learning, and Community in the Philippines

By
PhilSociety
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University College London (UCL), in partnership with the College of Arts and Letters at the University of the Philippines Diliman, launched Queer Community College Philippines (QCCP) as a two‑day free public programme on queer theory, identity, culture, and education held in Manila last April. The initiative builds on the Queer Community College series inaugurated at London’s QUEERCIRCLE in 2024, with support from the British Council.

Against the backdrop of evolving conversations on gender and inclusion in the Philippines, QCCP presents a fresh model for learning that moves beyond classrooms and draws on lived experience, community, and creative practice.

As an open, community‑led platform, QCCP brought together academics, artists, cultural practitioners, and activists from the Philippines and the UK. Through talks, discussions, and creative workshops, participants explored LGBTQIA+ knowledge in ways that were accessible, care‑centred, and grounded in lived experience. Gender and sexuality advocacy group PANTAY collaborated closely on the programme to ensure conversations remained rooted in local realities.

Unlike traditional academic programmes, QCCP welcomed participants regardless of their familiarity with queer theory. Learning unfolded through dialogue, artistic practice, and shared reflection, highlighting how art and education can work together to expand how knowledge is created and shared.

“We don’t necessarily separate educational work from artistic work. We use artistic methods to educate and to discuss topics usually relegated to classrooms and lectures… Artistic practices are part of knowledge production, so they are inherently educational, just as education itself can be creative,” said Dr. Roselle Pineda, College of Arts and Letters, UP Diliman.

For UCL, the programme reflects a commitment to bringing queer ways of knowing beyond academic institutions and into communities.

“Our aim has always been to bring queer ways of knowing and thinking out of academia and into the community to make it accessible and empower communities to drive positive change,” said Dr. Simon Lock, Professor of Science, Politics and Culture at UCL.

QCCP was developed collaboratively by UCL, UP Diliman, and PANTAY, with support from the British Council, bringing together practitioners across disciplines to explore how culture, education, and activism intersect.

“Programmes like Queer Community College are essential to the British Council’s work in the arts,” said Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan, Head of Arts at the British Council Philippines.“Initiatives like this help build a cultural sector that values diversity, nurtures marginalised voices, and enables creatives across the Philippines to thrive.”

Grounded in creativity, care, and community, Queer Community College Philippines shows how inclusive cultural and educational initiatives can spark meaningful exchange, strengthen UK-Philippines connections, and open new conversations on gender and learning.

For more information, visit www.britishcouncil.org 

From 2 wheels to 4: Delivery rider wins BYD Sealion 6 in lucky Jagat Coin Hunt trip

By
PhilSociety
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Jagat, BingoPlus award BYD Sealion 6 DM-i to 30-year-old delivery rider Jess Mar Mallari

Jagat user and delivery rider Jess Mar Mallari received the parcel of a lifetime by snagging a brand-new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i after participating in the ultra-popular, real-life Coin Hunt.

Overcome with emotion at the sprawling BYD dealership in BGC, Taguig, the 30-year-old family man from Tondo, Manila, struggled to find the right words to describe the joy and shock he felt upon discovering the winning card near his home.

“Mayroon na ring tatlong buwan na rin, lagi kaming nauunahan. Ang dami rin kasi talagang naghahanap ng coins,” Mallari said.

“This time nakatiyempo kami na mas nauna kami doon sa mga naghahanap. Di ko naman expected na mayroong [BYD] card, na may prize pa palang ganoong kalaki.”

After three months of playing without any luck, Mallari admitted that his fateful trip to seek the winning BYD card would not have happened had his son not invited him for one more hunt along the infamously chaotic streets of Tondo.

“Actually kakauwi ko lang noon galing trabaho. Tapos nagpahinga lang ako kaunti, pero nagyaya yung anak ko na mag-Jagat. Nakita ko na may malapit sa amin. Natiyempuhan namin wala pang nakakakita,” Mallari continued.

“Ang saya po, sobra. Ilang araw hindi ako makatulog nang maayos. Paano ba naman yung kaba ng dibdib ko, di ko alam kung paano ko ipapaliwanag, kung totoo ba to o hindi. Di ko alam anong klaseng saya yung mararamdaman ko.”

Though admittedly only knowledgeable in driving motorcycles, Mallari said he’s willing to learn or at least ask for help from his friends for a while, as he wants nothing more than to first take his family out on road trips with his brand new BYD, notably worth more than P1.5 million.

Mallari is just one of many lucky Filipinos who have won exciting prizes in the highly successful Coin Hunt event, which used real-world tokens that corresponded to a wide array of prizes, from cash to phones to gaming consoles.

Coincidentally, Mallari is no stranger to winning, as he has also long been an avid patron of BingoPlus, Jagat’s key collaborator in this viral campaign.

The number one and most trusted online entertainment platform in the Philippines, the DigiPlus-owned BingoPlus, was also present at the interactive awarding ceremony at the BYD dealership in BGC, where Mallari gamely posed for photos and shot videos of his newest, most prized possession.

Like most BingoPlus players, Mallari reminded everyone to game responsibly, as he knows full well how great a stroke of luck can feel when chanced upon in moderation.

“Maglaro lang tayo nang naaayon sa estado sa buhay,” he said. “Huwag namang sagarin yung sarili masyado sa pagsusugal. Focus lang sa goal mo at huwag mong ubusin ang pera mo.”

A winner in whatever platform he tries his luck on, Jess Mar Mallari goes back home to Tondo a richer man, having reaped the rewards of his hard work and responsibility.

About DigiPlus

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

About BingoPlus

BingoPlus is the Philippines’ leading and most comprehensive digital entertainment platform. It has redefined digital gaming in the country. Launched in January 2022, it introduced the first-ever interactive, live-streaming digital bingo platform. BingoPlus is an affiliate of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. and is an advocate for responsible gaming. BingoPlus is licensed by the PAGCOR. For more information, visit www.bingoplus.com.

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