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Mary Grace Café Draws Crowds and Warm Reception in Singapore Debut

By
PhilSociety
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The beloved homegrown bakery and café marks its first international expansion, proving that 30 years of bringing ‘The Goodness of Home’ resonate far beyond Philippine shores

Since opening its doors on March 13, 2026 at 52 Tras Street, Tanjong Pagar, Mary Grace Café’s first-ever international branch has drawn a steady, eager stream of guests as Filipinos in Singapore find a comforting taste of home and locals embrace the brand’s signature warmth and flavors for the first time.

The opening was met with an immediate and enthusiastic reception, reflecting its broad appeal across diverse communities. Filipinos expressed a surge of Pinoy pride, thrilled that a beloved brand they grew up with—or frequently visited in Manila—was now easily accessible. This palpable excitement was evident on opening day, with queues of guests lining up for take-away baked goods. 

Beyond the diaspora, Singaporeans demonstrated a genuine curiosity, first observed during the brand’s successful web-based pop-ups in September 2025. International residents also showed significant interest, readily exploring the café. 

The Singapore menu thoughtfully highlights founder’s picks, and these selections have naturally become the most ordered products. These include the classic Ensaymada and Cheese Rolls, often enjoyed toasted by dine-in guests, perfectly paired with Mary Grace Hot Chocolate. Reflecting local tastes, the Salted Egg Ensaymada and Kaya Pandan Cheese Roll have also soared in popularity, their familiar flavors deeply resonating with Singaporeans. Other bestsellers include the Crab Cake Brioche and the refreshing Ube Coconut Cloud. Despite being new, their flavors possess a comforting familiarity, a delicious blend of nostalgia and novelty that appeals without being foreign. This, coupled with the meticulous care evident in every dish—from the quality of ingredients to preparation and plating—has garnered positive reviews among visitors of Mary Grace Café Singapore. 

This warm welcome underscores how Mary Grace’s “Goodness of Home,” built on cherished traditions and authentic flavors, has earned its place on the global stage. “I have always believed that what we serve is more than food. It is the feeling of being taken cared of, of being home,” said Mary Grace Dimacali, Founder, President, and CEO of Mary Grace Foods Inc. “When I started Mary Grace 30 years ago, I was simply trying to share what I knew best—good ingredients, heartfelt cooking, and a warm table for everyone. It fills my heart that we have brought this feeling to a whole new community in Singapore.”

Extending the “Goodness of Home” Beyond the Philippines

From the very beginning, Mary Grace Café was an extension of home—a place where the smell of freshly baked ensaymada meant comfort, where a warm cup of hot chocolate meant belonging, and where every corner table held a story worth telling. 

The decision to plant Mary Grace’s first international location in Singapore was both strategic and sentimental. Singapore is home to a vibrant and thriving Filipino community—professionals, families, and creatives who have built their lives in the Lion City while carrying the Philippines close to their hearts. At the same time, Singapore’s cosmopolitan, food-forward culture and its appetite for authentic, quality-driven dining experiences made it the ideal first frontier for the brand.

The location at Tanjong Pagar—in the heart of one of Singapore’s most beloved heritage neighborhoods—reflects this intention: to be accessible, to be welcoming, and to earn a place not just among Filipinos abroad, but among Singaporeans and international guests discovering Filipino warmth. 

“We wanted every detail in Singapore to feel like Mary Grace,” said Chiara Dimacali-Hugo, Executive Director of Mary Grace International. “My mother built this brand with her deep belief in what a home should feel like. It is our family’s privilege to carry that forward into Singapore, and to make sure that every single guest who walks through that door—whether they are a Tita who grew up eating our ensaymada in Manila, or a Singaporean who has never heard of us before—feels exactly the same thing: that they are welcome, that they are cared for, and that they are home.”

Unveiling the Limited-Edition Pandan Coconut Cake 

In honor of the international expansion, Mary Grace Café introduced a limited-edition Pandan Coconut Cake, available exclusively at Mary Grace locations across the Philippines. Inspired by the flavors of Singapore, this specialty product is a fragrant pandan almond cake with toasted coconut white chocolate crunch, silky coconut crémeux, and light-as-a-cloud whipped pandan ganache—crafted together for a cake that’s light and indulgent at once. 

What’s Next for Mary Grace Café

The Singapore opening marks a significant milestone, yet it is truly just the beginning. As Mary Grace embarks on its next decade, the priority for this first international outpost is to uphold the brand’s renowned quality and consistency, mirroring its esteemed reputation in the Philippines. The vision extends to cultivating a deep connection within Singapore, striving to expand the Mary Grace customer base and establish the café as a cherished “home” for everyone. 

Future plans include thoughtfully expanding the menu with beloved Filipino favorites from Manila and introducing innovative Singapore-exclusive creations, with aspirations for additional café branches and kiosks across the island. 

While the potential for broader international expansion remains a long-term aspiration, for now, nurturing the Singapore café to thrive amidst the dynamic F&B landscape is paramount, ensuring it continues to bring the “Goodness of Home” and its unique blend of Filipino warmth and quality to all who experience its charm.

Goldilocks Bakeshop, Inc. earns Halal Champion Excellence Recognition at Prime Group Gala Night

By
PhilSociety
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Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc. receives the “Halal Champion Excellence” Award. Pictured (L-R): Maher Ghanem, Regional Laboratory Manager, Prime Group UAE; Sheila Marie Rea, Vice President for Quality Assurance, Environment, Health & Safety (EHS), and Technical Services, Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc.; and Khalid Sanawbar, Group Operations Manager, Prime Group UAE.

Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc. was honored with the Halal Champion Excellence Award at the Prime Group Stakeholders Recognition and Gala Night held on January 29, 2026, at SO/Uptown Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

The award was presented by Prime Group, a UAE-headquartered quality, compliance, and Halal certifying body operating across Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. The distinction recognizes organizations that demonstrate sustained commitment to Halal integrity, food safety, and regulatory compliance.

Goldilocks was cited for maintaining strong quality assurance systems and consistently meeting internationally recognized Halal standards. The company recorded three consecutive years of achieving the highest compliance ratings under current standards governing Halal certification and food safety protocols.

The recognition places Goldilocks alongside other distinguished Philippine companies, reflecting the Philippines’ continued presence among regional leaders in Halal compliance.

The Prime Group Stakeholders Recognition and Gala Night gathers partners across industries to recognize leadership in quality management, compliance, and Halal governance.

For Goldilocks, the award underscores the role of disciplined compliance systems and continuous improvement in supporting responsible growth and expanding access to diverse markets.

BingoPlus awarded as a Top Advertiser at the UPMG Philippines HeADliners Awards

By
PhilSociety
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Ms. Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus VP of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications and Sustainability with the UPMG Board Members.

A shared vision in branding as BingoPlus was recognized as one of the Top Advertisers at the United Print and Multimedia Group (UPMG) Philippines Print Summit and Headliners Awards with the theme: The Legacy of Print and its Evolution last March 24 at Dusit Thani Manila.

The award was received by Ms. Celeste Jovenir, Vice President of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications and Sustainability of DigiPlus Interactive Corporation, who also represented DigiPlus-owned platform. Celebrating the power of print and digital advertisement, BingoPlus was the only digital entertainment platform to receive the award, together with PhilHealth, Meralco, SM Malls and other recipients from the government and private sectors.

BingoPlus, stands as the only top advertiser in the digital entertainment industry

The top advertiser award was voted by the UPMG Board, once again proving the brand’s  relationship with the media in sharing credible information in online gaming. 

DigiPlus Interactive Corporation and BingoPlus continue to evolve the brand with a purpose, upholding its message of responsible gaming and standing together as a leading platform in the digital entertainment industry.

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.

From Grief to Grace: A father’s promise made true at the GameZone Tour Tongits Plus Championship Cup Season 4

By
PhilSociety
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Ahrold celebrates as he emerged victorious at the GameZone Tour Tongits Plus Championship Cup Season 4

Under the bright lights of the GameZone Tour stage, a father’s grief turned to grace as Pampanga’s best tongits player, Ahrold Tubig, won the GameZone Tour Tongits Plus Champions Cup (TPCC) Season 4 held on March 8 in Pasay City.

Everyone who joined the tournament had one goal: to win the staggering P5,000,000 grand prize. For Tubig, that dream became a reality. His victory was not only a personal triumph but also an emotional milestone for his family.

Tubig carried more than hopes of becoming the Tongits Plus Championship Cup grand champion the moment he stepped atop the GameZone Tour stage, bearing the memories of his sons, Yuan Poll and Yuan Pitt.

Before the tournament began, Tubig, along with his family, visited the separate graves of their boys who died six years ago. Poll and Pitt were fine, though prematurely born in December 2019. Then came the infection Poll developed, so Pitt had to be taken home to avoid getting ill as well.

“Una po, okay sila dalawa sa NICU (Newborn Intensive Care Unit). Pero nagka-infection po yung isa, si Poll. So si Pitt po, dahil naging okay naman po yung lagay niya, kahit sobrang liit at payat niya noon, nakalabas po siya ng ospital. Kasi baka mahawa po siya kay Poll,” Tubig shared in an exclusive interview with GameZone.

On February 20, 2020, Poll was finally cleared to go home. The twins spent five days together before Poll was rushed back to the hospital again. On February 28, he passed away. Nothing compares to the pain of having to bury your own child, but for Ahrold, life goes on. After a year, the family was able to celebrate Pitt’s first birthday. Everything was perfect, but on Poll’s death anniversary, Pitt got sick.

Pitt was rushed to the hospital on March 2, 2021. The doctors initially diagnosed it as dengue and had Pitt transferred to another hospital, where it was later confirmed as sepsis, a blood infection. On March 4, Pitt was also taken away from them.

“March 2 po dinala namin sa ospital si Pitt, sabi ng ospital dengue, hanggang ma-coma siya at nilipat ng ospital kung saan namatay si Poll. Pagdating doon, sepsis po pala ang nakita sa kanya, na sakit sa dugo. March 4, nawala na po si Pitt,” said Tubig.

The heartbreak of Poll’s and Pitt’s passing was why the twins were laid to rest separately. For years, Tubig kept the pain and a quiet wish in his heart—to bring the boys’ resting place side by side.

Journey fueled by heart

Tubig’s journey in the Tongits Plus Champions Cup was nothing short of a comeback story fueled by heart. He had to fight through the revival round, where he was dominated by Nanay Pilar throughout the contest. Eventually, he clawed his way back to the leaderboards to secure a seat in the semifinals. He pushed through the season composed, patient, and strategic.

GameZone Tour hosts together with Pilar Fernandez, Gina Bengco, and Ahrold Tubig before the start of Tongits Plus Championship Cup final round.

After his success in the semis, Tubig faced Nanay Pilar, who was seated at the top, and Gina Bengco at second in the finals. Pilar dominated the opening round, but Tubig, a seasoned tongits player, stayed calm and calculated every meld and draw. Then came the second round.

Tubig played sharply, fearlessly, and perfectly, a kind of performance that eliminates any doubt. After getting hammered by Pilar in the revival round and the 1st round of the finals, Tubig turned the tables by flushing out Pilar’s special card (tongits) that got him back in the game. Instinct and strategy collided, and at the end of the final round, Ahrold Tubig of Masantol, Pampanga, bagged the cash prize as the Tongits Plus Champions Cup season 4 champion.

Ahrold Tubig clasped hands in joy after the final round of the Tongits Plus Champions Cup finals.

Tubig believed that the championship was destined, and Poll and Pitt guided his journey. “Dalawang beses po kami bumalik sa puntod nila, February 28 at March 4 po. Kinausap ko po sila noon kaya alam ko po na binantayan po nila ako noong laban ko,” he said. Ahrold also shared how highly motivated he is during the tournament because of his family, “My pamilya ang alas ko, that’s how I win.” He added.

More than winning

Tubig highlighted the importance of playing responsibly, emphasizing that aspiring GameZone Tour players should set a limit when playing. “Sa mga aspiring players, hinay hinay lang sa paglalaro. Dapat may limit lang sa paglalaro. Pag wala na, tama na,” Tubig said.

He also urged players to dream big if they want to join the GameZone Tour tournament. “Sa mga gustong sumali sa mga GameZone tournament, tiyaga lang mangarap ka. Dahil kay GameZone Tour, maari niya tuparin ang pangarap mo.”

Tubig’s victory is more than just winning the Tongits Plus Championship Cup championship. It is a story of healing and giving. Today, the Tubig family is finally able to fulfill their promise to bring Poll and Pitt together in peace. They also plan to donate to their local chapel to help fund its renovation after it was severely damaged by the recent flood.

Experience the Real GameZone, head on to https://gzone.ph/promotionV2/detail/130 to know more.

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.

Modess Champions Women to Stand with Confidence This Women’s Month

By
PhilSociety
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From Left: Steffi Lucero, Host; Kaila Estrada, Actress; Kristine Jane Atienza, Astonaut Candidate; Gybel Agregado, Co-Managing Director of Girls Got Game; Kaye Martinez, Co-Managing Director of Girls Got Game

This Women’s Month, Modess is reclaiming a phrase many women have heard at some point in their lives: “babae kasi.” Often used to dismiss women or question their abilities, the line has long carried quiet limitations. Modess is turning that narrative around, reframing it as a reminder that being a woman is not a disadvantage, but a source of strength.

A Women’s Month Celebration Built on Visibility, Voice, and Real Support

To bring the message into everyday spaces, Modess partnered with Grab Philippines from 10 March to 9 April to spotlight women drivers and Move It motorcycle riders navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry. Through the collaboration, Modess distributed free pads to women passengers riding with women Grab drivers and extended that same gesture to those riding with women Move It motorcycle riders — making menstrual hygiene essentials more accessible on the road. It was a simple but powerful reminder that protection, comfort, and confidence should never be out of reach, no matter where the journey takes you.

Modess partners with Grab, bringing quality sanitary pads closer to women.

Extending these stories even further, Modess also launched Confidence Convos starting 19 March until end of March, a video series in partnership with Cosmopolitan Philippines, which spotlights women thriving in unconventional spaces from female aviation to ride hailing and mobility services. The series explores the challenges these women face while highlighting how they continue to flourish in their fields, reinforcing a powerful truth: women are capable of thriving anywhere they choose to be.

L-R: Darna Salvador, Move It Rider; Chezka Carandang, Pilot; Cheryl Francisco, Grab Car Driver

The conversation continued at this year’s BeautyCon, held on March 20, where Modess brought together women breaking barriers in their own areas of expertise — not just to talk about confidence, but to reclaim it. The event challenged the phrase “babae kasi,” which highlighted how Modess and its guests flipped the narrative, turning it into a declaration of strength and confidence.

Actress, host, model, and influencer Kaila Estrada spoke about standing her ground in a competitive, often relentless industry: “‘We don’t just belong in these spaces — we elevate them.”  She also opened up about pushing through red days on set, reminding women that being in discomfort doesn’t mean stopping — it means knowing your body and trusting it.

Astronaut Candidate Kristine Jane Atienza reflected on carving her path in a field where Filipino women are rarely seen: “Every time I heard ‘babae kasi,’ I just trained harder. It became fuel. Proving them wrong wasn’t even the goal—it just happened. And astronaut training (yes, even on red days) proved my body can do way more than I was told.” She shared how powering through the physical demands of astronaut training — red days included — taught her that her body was capable of far more than she had been led to believe.

Girls Got Game co-managing directors Gybel Agregado and Kaye Martinez-Daly echoed the same spirit. Agregado shared: “ Our work at Girls Got Game is rooted in one belief: young girls deserve to see women compete, lead, and win — unapologetically. ‘Babae kasi’ was never a reason to sit out. It’s a reason to show up harder.” Martinez-Daly added: “Women are always told it can’t be done; but the moment you choose not to listen to that, everything changes. Red days, bad days, hard days — you still show up. That’s what confidence really looks like.”

Beyond Women’s Month, Modess is sustaining this commitment through its partnership with Girls Got Game, supporting programs that empower young women to develop confidence, leadership, and resilience early—before the world attempts to define their limits for them.

“’Babae kasi’ has long been said as a limitation that has shaped how women live, pushing them to shrink themselves, be quieter, more careful, or less visible,” said Katee Tolabing, Senior Brand Manager of Modess. “This Women’s Month, we’re reclaiming it as a statement of strength and celebrating what it truly means to be a woman: showing up with confidence, moving freely, and owning every space with pride. At Modess, we believe every woman deserves to live fully and confidently, every single day, with the freedom to keep going, even on her red days.”

By uplifting women in everyday spaces and amplifying their stories, Modess hopes to help more women see confidence not as something they need to prove but something they already carry.

HATCH 2026 Opens at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel, Celebrating Contemporary Filipino Art in a Timeless Setting

By
PhilSociety
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Ceremonial ribbon cutting formally opens Hatch 2026 at The Manila Hotel

The Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel came alive on March 25, 2026, as distinguished guests, artists, members of the media, and content creators gathered for the opening reception of HATCH 2026, the 8th edition of the premier art showcase at The Manila Hotel.

With the theme Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting, HATCH 2026 bridges heritage and modern expression. This year’s edition brings together 12 contemporary and emerging Filipino artists, each invited to interpret the iconic acrylic egg transforming it into a compelling vessel of storytelling, identity, and imagination.

Set against the storied backdrop of The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby, the opening reception formally presented this year’s featured artists to the public: Marko Belo, Dino Blanco, Norman Blanco, Rachel Anne Lacaba, Jao Mapa, Raf Page, Tokwa Peňaflorida, JP Pining, Angelo Roxas, Alber Tabanao, Rene Tolentino, and Krishnamurti.

The event was graced by Mr. Basilio C. Yap, chairman of the board of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, vice chairman of The Manila Hotel and president of the Manila Bulletin; Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; and Leslie Araujo, brand and marketing manager of the Manila Bulletin and project head of HATCH 2026; alongside members of the media and content creators.

In his remarks, Marvin Kim Tan shared, “What began as a platform to showcase fresh ideas has grown into a meaningful space that champions creativity and emerging talent. We are proud to continue supporting this initiative and the community it has built over the years. Our sincere thanks to Manila Bulletin for their continued partnership, and to the 12 artists featured this year. When Ernest Hemingway visited in 1941, he remarked, ‘It’s a good story if it’s like The Manila Hotel.’ May this year’s exhibit at our Grand Lobby be another great story to tell.”

HATCH Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 2, 2026. Admission is free.

For more information, visit The Manila Hotel

ArenaPlus reignites PVL, Spikers’ Turf partnership for third year

By
PhilSociety
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Year 3: ArenaPlus renews support for PVL, Spikers’ Turf

ArenaPlus, the country’s number one PAGCOR-licensed online sportsbook, renewed its partnership with the elite Premier Volleyball League and Spikers’ Turf on Thursday, March 26, at the fabled Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

On top of its continued support, the DigiPlus-owned ArenaPlus now also holds the sole distinction of being the official sportsbook of both top-flight leagues–further pushing the envelope in an evolving sports and entertainment landscape.

Present at the landmark event for ArenaPlus was its official representative, Jasper Vicencio, who reiterated the company’s push that partnerships go beyond mere renewals and tradition, and are always for the improvement of Filipino sports.

“Over the years, we have witnessed how volleyball has captured the hearts of Filipinos, from packed arenas to millions of fans following every rally, every set, and every championship moment,” Vicencio said.

“Through this partnership, ArenaPlus is proud to elevate the sports entertainment experience surrounding volleyball. Whether inside the arena or among fans cheering from different parts of the country, the energy of the game continues to unite people and create moments that fans truly live for.”

ArenaPlus explains vision for PVL, Spikers’ Turf to media

Joining Vicencio at the event was PVL Control Committee Chairman Sherwin Malonzo, who likewise hoped that the continued partnership would further elevate Philippine volleyball to world-class status.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to ArenaPlus for its partnership with the Premier Volleyball League and the Spikers’ Turf. Your continued investment and confidence in the PVL and Spikes’ Turf play a vital role in elevating the league’s growth, enhancing fan engagement, and strengthening the platforms for our athletes,” Malonzo said.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, entertainment, and delivering a world-class volleyball experience to audiences nationwide.”

Just like the ever-growing landscape of both men’s and women’s volleyball, ArenaPlus continues to adapt and position itself as the Philippines’ premier entertainment gateway. 

As the ink dries on another secured partnership with two of the country’s best sports leagues, ArenaPlus, the official sportsbook of the PVL and Spikers’ Turf, reignites its passion to be as accessible as ever to every sports-loving Filipino.

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 ArenaPlus
ArenaPlus is the #1 PAGCOR-licensed online sportsbook in the Philippines, providing a secure and engaging sports betting experience since its launch in 2023.

Fossil Supports Filipina Athletes in All-Women Sports Awards

By
PhilSociety
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From Left: Hon. Senator Vicente Sotto III; Fanny Choi, Fossil Manager-APAC Distribution; Philippine Sports Commission’s Olivia "Bong" Coo, and; Hon. Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto grace the 3rd All-Women Sports Awards 2026. Fossil is the event’s official watch sponsor.

The Philippines’s top women athletes were honored and their achievements celebrated at the 3rd All-Women Sports Awards 2026, an event that continues to push for stronger support, investment, and systems that allow Filipina athletes to thrive. The ceremonies were held at the Philippine International Convention Center last March 20, 2026.

The All-Women Sports Awards is organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), with Fossil as the event’s official watch sponsor. Fossil, an international watch and accessories brand, continues to champion women’s empowerment as part of its environmental and social initiatives. Through its support of the awards, the brand reinforces efforts that inspire the next generation of young Filipina athletes, affirming that their work is seen, valued, and worth pursuing.

More than 80 Filipina athletes attended the ceremony, with 38 awards presented to recognize excellence across different disciplines in Philippine sports. Among those honored were members of the Philippine Women’s Football Team (Pilipinas), named Athletes of the Year, and swimmer Angel Otom, who was recognized as Para-Athlete of the Year. First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos was also named “Ina ng Atletang Pinoy” in recognition of her support for female athletes.

Giving words of encouragement and helping present the awards were Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto and Senator Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports. They were joined by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo, as well as Fanny Choi, Fossil Manager–APAC Distribution, who represented the brand’s continued support for women’s sports.

In his message during the event, PSC chairman Patrick C. Gregorio emphasized that the All-Women Sports Awards goes beyond recognition. He shared that it serves as a platform to inspire future generations of Filipina athletes to pursue excellence in sports. Gregorio also noted that women athletes should not be seen as a separate category, but as integral contributors to the country’s sporting success and identity. He pointed out the ongoing imbalance in recognition, where women often work harder for less visibility, an issue the PSC aims to address through stronger and more consistent institutional support.

SMDC Introduces Renewable Energy Systems Across Key Residential Projects

By
PhilSociety
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SMDC integrates renewable energy solutions across its residential communities, bringing sustainability into everyday living.

Marking a shift where sustainability moves beyond advocacy and starts shaping how communities operate day to day

As sustainability conversations continue to evolve, a more practical question is beginning to take hold for many homebuyers and residents. Beyond awareness, how does it actually improve everyday living?

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) is taking a step in that direction with the introduction of renewable energy systems across four of its residential developments. The initial rollout covers Style Residences, Spring Residences, South Residences, and Vine Residences, with three located in Metro Manila and one in the Visayas.

The initiative is part of SMDC’s partnership with Buskowitz, a Philippine-based renewable energy solutions provider, formalized in October 2025, and focuses on integrating renewable energy solutions into the common areas of these communities. The rollout comes at a time when sustainability is gaining wider attention globally, with initiatives such as Earth Hour encouraging more conscious energy use.

While sustainability is often discussed in broad and long-term terms, its impact at the residential level is becoming more immediate and measurable. Early estimates show that these systems may reduce energy consumption in shared spaces by around 15 percent. Over time, this can influence how efficiently a development operates and help manage the portion of association dues allocated to common area electricity use.

For residents, the benefit is simple. Lower energy use in shared spaces can help manage electricity-related costs, while improving how the community runs day to day.

“This is really about making sustainability more tangible at the community level,” said Jessica Bianca Sy, Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation and Strategy at SMDC. “When it starts to affect how a development operates day to day, that’s when it becomes more meaningful for residents. It’s no longer just an idea, but something they experience over time.”

The move also reflects a broader shift in how residential developments are being planned. Sustainability is no longer positioned as a separate feature but is gradually becoming part of how communities are designed to function on a daily basis.

Following the pilot phase, SMDC plans to expand renewable energy integration across future SMDC Nature developments, reinforcing a direction toward communities that are designed with both present use and long-term everyday living in mind.

To learn more, visit www.smdcnature.com.

Setting a New Standard: SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu Brings World-Class MICE to Cebu

By
PhilSociety
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SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is located at South Coastal Road and F. Vestil St., South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City, Philippines.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is poised to redefine the country’s MICE landscape as it prepares to open the biggest convention center in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu. Strategically designed to attract international organizers, it is seen to compete with leading venues across Southeast Asia, including those in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Prime Location in Cebu’s South Road Properties

Located within Cebu’s fast-rising South Road Properties (SRP), the region’s most ambitious development corridor, the venue offers seamless connectivity to SM Seaside City Cebu via a link bridge, with direct access to SM Hotels’ uprising hotel properties: a dual-branded development that showcases both the Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson brands. It also stands adjacent to SM Arena Seaside Cebu. This enables event organizers to create a fully integrated event ecosystem in a single destination, where delegates can conveniently access convention facilities, large-scale entertainment venues, as well as a wide range of dining, retail, and leisure experiences within a compact and well-connected district.

A New Benchmark: The Philippines’ Largest Convention Center

Spanning a gross floor area of more than 40,000 square meters and offering 21,000 square meters of leasable space, the convention center is built for scale and flexibility. Its four expansive, column-free exhibition halls feature an impressive 10-meter vertical clearance and industry-grade floor loading capacity of 250 lbs per square foot, ideal for large-scale trade shows, international exhibitions, and high-impact events. Complementing these are eight function rooms and nineteen meeting rooms, designed to accommodate a wide range of corporate and social gatherings.

The venue is equipped with advanced technical infrastructure, including robust rigging load capacities, multiple freight and car lifts for efficient ingress and egress, and large roll-up doors for seamless event setup. A 10-meter-high pre-function lobby, executive VIP lounge, and fourteen strategically located kitchens further enhance its ability to host simultaneous, large-scale events with premium service delivery.

Built with global standards in mind, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu offers full connectivity through Wi-Fi, LAN, and telecommunication systems, alongside comprehensive safety features such as CCTV monitoring, automated fire alarm systems, emergency power backup, and an on-site medical clinic. With 1,815 parking slots and a wide network of accredited caterers, contractors, and technical providers, the venue ensures a seamless end-to-end event experience.

Designed for Everyone: Inclusive Amenities

Beyond its scale and facilities, the center is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with provisions for persons with disabilities, all-gender restrooms, and convenient access to retail, dining, and commercial establishments within its perimeter.

Positioning the Philippines as a Global MICE Destination

SM Hotels Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik said, “With its contemporary architecture, expansive capabilities, and prime location, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to elevate the Philippines’ position in the global MICE industry. It also offers international organizers a compelling alternative to established convention destinations across Southeast Asia while providing the unique opportunity to complement business events with leisure experiences, allowing delegates to enjoy Cebu’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and local attractions alongside their professional engagements.”

For more information, visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

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