From Left: Ramon Roman, AVP of engineering and technical services at Dolmar Land; Jude Cabador, engineering and technical services officer; Sally De Villa, project development assistant manager; Daryl Cillano, accounts executive at Estima Inc.; Angelo Elipse, VP of business development; Grace De Leon, sales director; Betsy Quiambao, broker relations associate; Famela Allam, in-house sales relations associate; Jamelie Yapchulay, project planning architect; and Regina Señoran, business development manager.
(Photo Release)
Dolmar Land bags another major recognition at the recently concluded Dot Property Philippines Awards, as one of its flagship developments, Legacia, was awarded Best Investment Property – Emerging Communities. This is the second time that a major award-giving body has presented the development with an award of the same nature. At last year’s Carousell Property Awards, Dolmar Land’s Legacia was also given the Best Value for Investment award, along with Best Housing Design.
These recognitions underscore Dolmar Land’s ability to create not just homes, but communities that reflect their understanding of what works for Filipinos. Arguably the first of its kind in Baliuag, Bulacan, Legacia is a 22.8-hectare flood-free community with around 900 units. It offers small families and first-time homeowners a chance to live closer to nature whilst enjoying the best comforts of a gated community, including a fully functioning clubhouse & multipurpose hall, open green space park areas, basketball courts, and a swimming pool.
“We don’t do it for the awards, but they do inspire us to continue looking for ways to do better,” shares Mr. Angelo Elipse, Dolmar Land’s Vice President for Business Development. “We’ve been around for 50 years, and while we cannot claim to be the biggest in the industry, we can proudly say that we are one of the best in providing value to our communities–value not just in the physical aspect of the properties we develop, but we also put care when it comes to service.”
Each unit that Legacia offers is thoughtfully designed to provide Filipino families with generous living spaces, smart storage solutions, and finishes that enhance everyday living.With current unit prices ranging from ₱3.5 million to ₱5.6 million, Legacia provides exceptional value for money through its versatile model homes that cater to diverse needs and aspirations.
“We continue our commitment to building homes and communities that keep the future of Filipino families in mind. We don’t just see ourselves as developers, we are a company who helps Filipinos realize their dreams of owning very well-designed homes where they and their loved ones can grow and build lasting memories,” adds Mr. Elipse.
Participants, organizers, and facilitators during the Beyond the Plate workshop
Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s “Beyond the Plate” Elevates Iloilo’s Food Media Scene
SMHCC’s Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, in a successful partnership with the Iloilo City MICE Center, recently hosted “Beyond the Plate: A Masterclass in Gastronomical Storytelling”. The full-day workshop, held at the hotel, brought together local content creators, students, and media to celebrate and elevate the art of food writing and content creation, reinforcing Iloilo’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
With SMHCC’s various Park Inn hotels around the country, this project is only the beginning of the company’s series of initiatives for authentic Philippine cuisine to genuinely be appreciated by the world, as part of the company’s contribution to promote food tourism. It is SMHCC’s thrust to be a catalyst in showcasing the rich culinary heritage of every region and discovering rich gastronomic traditions.
Mayor Raisa Treñas during her special welcome message
The event kicked off with a unique urban farm tour led by Chef Cidj Jalandoni, providing participants a hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation understanding that knowing and valuing the origins of food is fundamental to authentic and meaningful gastronomy. The official program opened with a special welcome message from Iloilo City Mayor, Hon. Raisa Treñas. “This initiative highlights not only our culinary treasures but also our role as storytellers of Iloilo’s rich food heritage,” she said. “Food is not just food—it is culture, memory, and identity.”
Iloilo City Uswag Agri-nursery in Tagbak Jaro, Iloilo City
The masterclass featured a distinguished lineup of experts who shared their knowledge and experience. Dr. Hazel Palmares Villa, an esteemed writer and academic, guided attendees through the Elements of Food Writing & Sensory Storytelling. Her session laid the theoretical foundation for how to craft compelling narratives. This was immediately followed by a practical, hands-on session with Ms. Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation. Her topic, on breaking down flavor, directly supported Dr.
Kristian Kris Cruz, an award-winning phone photographer and iPhone photography ambassador during his session
Villa’s talk by allowing participants to put theory into practice, exploring textures, and identifying tastes in an actual tasting session.
Kadyos Baboy Langka
This was followed by a session with Mr. Rouel Guanzon, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, who delivered an engaging discussion on wine appreciation. He not only covered the fundamentals of tasting and evaluating wine, but also explored the fascinating art of wine pairing with everyday food, making the topic both accessible and practical for a media audience. The visual aspect of food storytelling was highlighted by Kristian “Kris” Cruz, an award-winning phone photographer and iPhone photography ambassador. He shared his expertise on mobile food photography and content creation, a crucial skill for media professionals who need to pair compelling writing with equally stunning visuals.
Media participants, including enthusiastic students from West Visayas State University, applied their new knowledge in an Output Challenge. They were tasked with creating an article and photos for a featured dish from Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s Ani Restaurant’s Heritage Menu, putting their newly honed skills to the test.
Bicho-bicho
The successful event underscored Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s commitment to not only providing exceptional hospitality but also actively participating in the cultural and creative development of the community. As General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Rouel Guanzon shared his insights on this shared commitment in his closing remarks. “This workshop is more than just a gathering; it is a clear testament to our shared commitment to Iloilo. As the city proudly wears its distinction, we at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo are honored to be a proud partner of the local government in its mission to upskill and empower our local talent and resources. We believe that true progress is built on collaboration, and this event is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve together.”
The Beyond the Plate workshop series in partnership Iloilo MICE Center will continue to have more installments in the future, with the aim of upskilling relevant talent and potential communities as the city journeys to uphold its UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy title.
SMHCC’s premier property in Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, proudly announces the upcoming launch of its first-ever Presidential Villa, set to open in February 2026. This landmark development marks a new era of luxury in South Luzon, further elevating Tagaytay as one of the country’s most cherished destinations.
As the city’s cultural landmark, Taal Vista Hotel continues to enrich its tradition of service excellence with this trailblazing addition. Designed for discerning travelers, the 600-square-meter Presidential Villa will be located on the 4th floor of the Mountain Wing, offering unmatched panoramic views of Taal Lake and Volcano.
Artist’s perspective rendered photo: The Presidential Villa Dining Area — blending timeless charm with modern comfort.
A welcome addition to its 262 guest rooms, the 600-square-meter Presidential Villa will be situated at the 4th floor of the hotel’s mountain wing, providing the most scenic and comforting spot in all of Tagaytay. It features three luxurious bedrooms, a spacious living area, a formal dining space, a private veranda ideal for intimate gatherings, and a private lift.
Crafted with a sense of quiet sophistication—the Presidential Villa was designed to feel exclusive yet welcoming, blending modern luxury with Tagaytay’s calming atmosphere. Minimalist yet luxurious, the villa emphasizes privacy, comfort, and timeless design, elevated by subtle textures and panoramic windows.
A panoramic paradise – the scenic view of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake from the Presidential Villa.
“The Presidential Villa was a vision that is finally coming to fruition. Through the years, we have been home to many milestones from valued guests, and we cannot wait to offer them something more,” said Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel. “We designed a villa that is not just accommodation, but an experience in itself—where luxury and nature meet seamlessly in Tagaytay.”
Artist’s perspective rendered photo: The 36.7 m² Living Area of the Presidential Villa, offering generous space for relaxation and gatherings in refined comfort.
Perfect for indulgent getaways, milestone celebrations, or private gatherings, the Presidential Villa provides a rare blend of exclusivity and comfort, making it an ideal setting for intimate weddings, VIP stays, and family retreats.
“The launch of the Presidential Villa reflects Taal Vista Hotel’s commitment to preserving a masterpiece and a heritage while embracing modern luxury,” said Peggy Angeles, SMHCC Executive Vice President. “As the first of its kind in Tagaytay, it elevates the guest experience while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for discerning travelers.”
With the unveiling of the Presidential Villa, Taal Vista Hotel sets a new benchmark for luxury in Tagaytay—where heritage meets contemporary elegance. Guests are invited to discover this one-of-a-kind retreat and create timeless memories starting 2026.
From Left to Right: Ivayne Omelig, Ms. PlayTime, Mandy Ochoa, AVP Supplies Sales, FilOil Logistics Corp., Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations, PlayTime and PlayTime CARES, Dianne Layug, General Manager, PlayTime FilOil Centre, Francisco Pasicolan †, Chairman, HOME Inc. (the late), Virgil Villavicencio, League Chairman, PlayTime CARES 18th FilOil EcoOil Pre-season Cup, and Lucky PlayTime mascot during the unveiling of the PlayTime FilOil Centre.
Since its founding, PlayTime CARES, the corporate social responsibility arm of PlayTime, has been guided by a singular mission: to ensure that the success of the country’s most innovative online entertainment platform translates into meaningful contributions to the Filipino people. From fighting hunger to building safe spaces for children, from empowering athletes to supporting disaster-stricken communities, PlayTime CARES has proven that private enterprise can play a critical role in nation-building.
Partnering with Government Against Hunger
Most recently, PlayTime CARES partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the inaugural Walang Gutom Kusinero National Cook-Off Challenge, an event that showcased how Filipino families can prepare nutritious, delicious, and affordable meals through the government’s Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) food credits. PlayTime CARES sponsored the livelihood assistance package—a branded food cart awarded to the national champion from Zamboanga Peninsula—transforming the cook-off from a one-day competition into a long-term livelihood opportunity.
This event builds on PlayTime CARES’ ongoing partnership with DSWD, including the Walang Gutom Kitchen initiative, which has provided freshly prepared meals to hundreds of vulnerable families. Both efforts reflect the organization’s deep commitment to align with national government programs addressing involuntary hunger.
PlayTime CARES Director of Public Relations (leftmost) and Sec. Rex Gatchalian (rightmost) award the Livelihood Assistance Package to the Grand Champions of the Walang Gutom Cook-Off Challenge.
Investing in Children and Communities
PlayTime CARES also recognizes that sustainable development begins with children. Earlier this year, it turned over its first PlayTime Playground to a Gawad Kalinga community in Trece Martires, Cavite. The safe play space is designed to support children’s holistic growth—encouraging active play, imagination, and socialization. The initiative reflects PlayTime’s belief that every child deserves a happy, healthy, and nurturing environment in which to thrive.
Championing Sports and Filipino Athletes
Sports is another pillar of PlayTime CARES. Through its partnership with FilOil, PlayTime became the venue sponsor of the PlayTime FilOil Centre, home to the premier FilOil EcoOil Pre-Season Cup and other collegiate tournaments. By investing in sports infrastructure, PlayTime CARES provides young Filipino athletes with opportunities to develop their talents, build discipline, and foster national pride.
PlayTime CARES also supports local boxing, basketball, and community-level sporting events—creating platforms where Filipino talent can shine on a national and even international stage.
PlayTime CARES turned over the first PlayTime Playground to Gawad Kalinga Village – Trece Martires as part of its commitment to nurturing communities for holistic child development.
Responding to Urgent Needs
PlayTime CARES has been equally active in times of crisis. From delivering hot meals to flood evacuation centers in coordination with non-profit partners, to providing assistance in disaster-affected areas, the group has consistently shown its readiness to respond where the need is greatest. Its work in disaster relief reflects the organization’s broader advocacy: that no Filipino should be left behind in times of hardship.
A Business in the Service of the Nation
“Through PlayTime CARES, we don’t just sponsor programs—we help build futures,” said Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations of PlayTime CARES. “Our projects—whether it’s building playgrounds, sponsoring sports tournaments, feeding communities, or providing livelihood assistance—are grounded in one vision: that business must go hand-in-hand with responsibility. We are in the business of doing good, and we will continue to seek collaborations that make a lasting impact.”
Consistent in Advocacy, Expanding in Reach
As the social responsibility arm of PlayTime, PlayTime CARES affirms that entertainment is not just about enjoyment—it is also about empowerment. By continuously investing in programs that support sustainable community development, PlayTime CARES demonstrates its belief that private companies can and should contribute to the national agenda of building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.
Mondelēz International and the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) recently signed a memorandum of agreement whereby the snacks company seeks the expertise of DOST-FNRI to develop guidelines on healthy and balanced snacking for Filipinos.
The signing held September 25, 2025 was attended by Mondelēz International’s Managing Director Aleli Arcilla and DOST-FNRI Director III & OIC, Office of the Director, Atty. Lucieden G. Raz. It marks a significant step toward ensuring good nutrition and health by promoting snack recommendations for Filipino adults aged 19-59 years old.
“This engagement is a momentous milestone in support of our Company’s advocacy to snack mindfully,” said Arcilla. “With the completion of this study and the eventual promotion of snack recommendations, we look forward to helping foster healthier snacking habits, ultimately improving the overall well-being of the Filipino people.”
Adds Arcilla, “We advocate for mindful snacking, which is eating with attention and intention. We encourage our consumers to first understand why they want to snack, and make sure to enjoy their snacking experience by being present in the moment. This means taking out distractions when eating, savoring the smell, taste and texture of their food, chewing slowly and portioning their snacks. Research has shown that snacking mindfully helps avoid overindulgence and helps establish a healthier relationship with food,”
The State of Philippine Snacking
According to the 2024 State of Philippine Snacking report, 98% of Filipinos snack at least once a day; higher than the global average. The State of Snacking is an annual report commissioned by Mondelēz International with The Harris Poll to understand consumer snacking behavior all over the world. Now in its sixth year, this report compiled survey responses from October 10-22, 2024, among adults in the Philippines, aged eighteen or older.
The report shows that while Filipinos may snack often, an overwhelming 99% of survey responders already engage in mindful snacking behaviors, with 92% agreeing, “I appreciate my snacks more when consumed mindfully.” Further, the most important piece of snacking advice that consumers have received has been to “…enjoy snacks in moderation” (55%). Eighty percent of consumers look for portion-controlled snacks, while 91% agree, “I combine my favorite snack foods with other, more nutritious foods for balance.”
Healthy Snacking Recommendations for Filipino Adults
Through the financial support of Mondelēz International, the DOST-FNRI will conduct a study on Filipino snacking habits and establish snack recommendations for Filipino adults aged 19-59 years old that provide guidance on caloric needs and nutritional quality needed for snacks. These recommendations can further guide Filipinos with their snacking habits. In focusing on snacks, the project complements the existing food guides by providing information on how snacks can be part of a balanced daily diet.
“This undertaking with Mondelēz International will help support a better understanding of Filipino’s snacking behaviors, to be able to provide more comprehensive guidance on how they should consume their snacks,” shares Atty. Raz. “We look forward to understanding more about how and why Filipinos snack.”
Based on the study’s findings, the DOST-FNRI will further provide evidence-based recommendations for healthier snacking habits, promoting better overall nutrition and well-being. The study is set to begin in September 2025.
Certified EU organic products on display at the launch of Naturland's _European Organic_ Nurturing Every Juan_ campaign on 23 September
Naturland e.V., one of the world’s leading international associations for organic agriculture, is driving conversations on the importance of adopting organic food in the Philippines.
On EU Organic Day, the association launched “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan,” a three-year awareness campaign implemented in collaboration with the European Union, to make organic food more accessible to Filipinos.
During the launch event, guests were treated to a curated lunch at Grace Park Dining, a restaurant from celebrated chef, Margarita Fores’ legacy, and a strong supporter of the organic movement in the Philippines. Each dish featured an EU organic product, highlighting the quality and care that went into every meal and the high standards behind every EU-certified organic product.
Event host Hannah Bacani kicks off the media launch of Naturland’s “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan” campaign held on September 23.
The launch comes at a time when demand for healthier and more sustainable food choices is growing in the Philippines, but options and support remain limited. According to the PwC 2025 Voice of the Consumer report, 67% of Filipinos consider nutritional value a key factor in food purchases. Similarly, a study by Food Industry Asia revealed that 99% of Filipino consumers want to adopt mindful eating habits, with many calling on the food industry to help make these choices more attainable.
Marco Schlüter, Managing Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland e.V., discussed how organic agriculture can play a key role in addressing food security while providing healthier options.
“Organic is not just a label—it’s a promise of integrity, transparency, and sustainability that creates value for people, businesses, and the planet. By choosing organic, we are working with nature, not against it.” he said.
From Left to Right: Control Union Philippines Managing Director Tom van der Meulen, Naturland Managing Director for Strategy & International Affairs Marco Schlüter, discussing the opportunities for developing the local value chains for organic in a Philippines
In a panel discussion, Tom van der Meulen, Managing Director of Control Union Philippines, explained how organic products in the market earn their organic certification label.
Under EU regulations, organic food production is guided by principles that protect both people and the planet. These include the prohibition of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), limited use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and 100% organic feed for animals. Farmers are also required to maintain soil and plant health through natural methods–reducing environmental impact while supporting food security.
Products that meet these requirements earn the EU organic logo, which indicates the code number of the certifying inspection body and the origin of ingredients.
Every pledge counts — Attendees committed to making conscious, sustainable choices for people and the planet during Naturland’s “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan” campaign launch on September 23.
“Certifications like the EU organic logo and the Naturland seal indicate that products have been independently verified by third parties to meet strict standards of transparency, sustainability, and quality. When customers see these on the products on the shelves, they are assured that these products were produced with care and comply with high quality standards of organic practices,” said van der Meulen.
Naturland goes beyond EU organic standards, as it upholds stricter social responsibility and fair employment practices. Its social standards cover working conditions, social benefits, and the protection of human rights, applying not only to farmers but also to producers and retailers.
“Our mission is to drive the shift to organic forward in the Philippines. As we share further knowledge about organic practices and engage with more stakeholders in the local food sector , we hope to make organic more accessible to every Juan, aim to empower every Juan to embrace EU organic products with confidence. We invite Filipino consumers and businesses to join us in this movement,” Schlüter said.
Over the next three years, the campaign will roll out consumer education programs and work with trade commissions and other stakeholders from the B2B sector to deepen Filipinos’ understanding of what organic truly means and embrace organic options, as we journey to make it part of everyday life.
Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Shopee wrapped up its 9.9 campaign with a record surge of 11 million items sold nationwide in a single day.
Shopee’s tools help local entrepreneurs reach more shoppers and unlock growth opportunities
Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Brazil, wrapped up its 9.9 campaign with a record surge of 11 million items sold nationwide in a single day. This growth was fueled by the sharp rise in video viewership, which drew hundreds of thousands of Filipinos per hour.
“The success of 9.9 is not just about the numbers, but more about the dream of Filipino entrepreneurs,” shares Vincent Lee, Head of Shopee Philippines. “We are driven to keep finding better ways for sellers and buyers to connect, whether through livestreams, videos, or affiliate, so MSMEs can reach more shoppers and grow in ways that are truly sustainable. That’s how we see our role in shaping inclusive progress in the digital economy.”
Pet Supplies Express, a family-run business of two decades, expanded into e-commerce on Shopee in 2020. “Shopee is very easy to use, from posting products to running ads, kaya mabilis kami naka-adjust to online selling,” they shared. This 9.9, their sales jumped four times higher than usual, thanks to ads and rebates. “What stood out for us is how Shopee checks in and guides us. You feel the support to help you succeed.”
Livestream: a mainstay in Filipino shopping
Shopee has led e-commerce in Southeast Asia since launching Shopee Live in 2019. In the Philippines, the platform has logged over 12 billion views in 2024.
This 9.9 alone, shoppers spent 1.1 million hours watching Shopee Live and Shopee Video, while 50% more MSMEs went live for the first time, a sign that livestream shopping is fast becoming a go-to way for small businesses to reach customers nationwide.
Affiliates: the next wave of Filipino entrepreneurs
Shopee’s affiliate ecosystem is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, expanding by 250% annually. During 9.9, affiliates shared 2 million products and drove a 112% increase in participation versus last year, showing how more Filipinos are turning this into a steady source of income.
Beyond creators and influencers, affiliates today include livestream hosts, video creators, community leaders, and even everyday shoppers who share links with their circles. This opens simple and practical ways for anyone to start earning online.
Shopee empowers MSMEs, affiliates, and Filipino shoppers by building stronger connections between sellers and buyers. With tools like livestream, affiliates, personalization, and reliability features, Shopee helps small businesses reach the right customers faster.
Together, these innovations are shaping the future of shopping: local, digital, and inclusive.
Bea Alonzo and Andrea Brillantes are the new faces that lead the country’s premier online leisure experience
Luxury is no longer confined to exclusive addresses or grand spaces — it can now live in the palm of your hand. With NUSTAR Online, the Philippines’ premier luxury online entertainment platform, the sophistication of Cebu’s most iconic integrated resort expands into a digital experience that is indulgent, secure, and accessible to every Filipino.
From its sleek interface to curated game offerings, NUSTAR Online is designed for Filipinos who value both entertainment and refinement. Every detail of the platform reflects NUSTAR’s vision: a seamless fusion of world-class leisure and online convenience.
At the heart of this platform are two empowered women whose names resonate far beyond the screen: Bea Alonzo and Andrea Brillantes. Chosen as the faces of NUSTAR Online, they embody the dual spirit of the brand — one rooted in timeless elegance, the other in fearless energy — both united by a shared pursuit of living life beautifully and to the fullest.
Bea Alonzo: Grace, Depth, and Timeless Luxury
Radiating elegance and grace, Bea Alonzo reflects NUSTAR Online’s promise of trust and unwavering standard of excellence in luxury online entertainment.
For nearly two decades, Bea Alonzo has redefined what it means to be an actress in the Philippines — her artistry marked by depth, her persona radiating elegance. She is admired not just for her body of work, but for her ability to evolve gracefully with the times. In Bea, NUSTAR Online finds a reflection of its promise: a platform that is grounded in trust, elegance, and an unwavering standard of excellence.
On the other end of the spectrum is Andrea Brillantes, a Gen-Z superstar whose rise has been fueled by boldness, authenticity, and charisma. She speaks to a new generation of Filipinos — one that lives digitally, plays without boundaries, and demands both excitement and style in every facet of the way they spend their time. For Andrea, NUSTAR Online is not only a platform for entertainment but also a stage where individuality and youthful ambition shine.
Gen-Z superstar Andrea Brillantes embodies boldness, authenticity, and charisma just like NUSTAR Online’s unrelenting excitement and style.
Together, Bea and Andrea represent the perfect balance: timeless class and modern vibrancy — the same poise that defines NUSTAR Online.
Luxury Entertainment, Redefined
More than an entertainment platform, NUSTAR Online is a lifestyle experience. Its sleek interface and curated suite of games mirror the polished world that it has become synonymous with, while its robust security and trusted play standards reflect the brand’s commitment to excellence.
Players can now access entertainment that is aspirational yet inclusive, indulgent yet responsible. Luxury is no longer about exclusivity — it’s about bringing world-class leisure into the everyday lives of Filipinos.
“Luxury is not just a destination; it is a way of life, and this is what NUSTAR Online brings to Filipinos,” said Krizia Cortez, NUSTAR Online Director of Public Relations. “We are turning the ordinary moments into extraordinary entertainment experiences that are secure, stylish, and rewarding – all at your fingertips. With Bea Alonzo embodying timeless elegance and Andrea Brillantes representing bold, modern energy, NUSTAR Online becomes the space where both worlds meet and shows that this is a lifestyle within reach for every Filipino who aspires for more.”
A New Era for Online Luxury in the Philippines
NUSTAR Online marks a significant milestone: it is not only the first of its kind in the local industry but also a symbol of how entertainment platforms can elevate leisure into something more meaningful. By combining world-class technology with a brand that equals with prestige, the brand positions itself as the gold standard for luxury online entertainment in the country.
As Bea and Andrea bring their unique voices to this story — one of elegance, the other of energy — NUSTAR Online sets out to inspire every generation of Filipinos to embrace a lifestyle lived with sophistication.
From Left to Right: Richard Nuttall, CEO at Philippine Airlines; Carlos Luis L. Fernandez, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Philippine Airlines; Lucio Tan III, President of PAL Holdings; Harald Gloy, Chief Operations Officer at Lufthansa Technik; Holger Beck, President and CEO at Lufthansa Technik Philippines; Dr. Janna Schumacher, Chief Human Resources Officer at Lufthansa Technik; and Eduardo Luy, Chairman and President at MacroAsia Corporation.
In the dynamic and often turbulent world of aviation, long-term partnerships are a testament to mutual trust, consistent performance, and shared vision. This September marks a significant milestone for two giants in the Philippine aviation landscape: Lufthansa Technik Philippines and the flag carrier, Philippine Airlines (PAL), as both entities celebrate 25 years of a foundational collaboration that has kept the nation’s aircraft flying safely and efficiently.
What began a quarter-century ago as a strategic alliance for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) has blossomed into one of the most enduring and critical relationships in the regional aerospace industry. Since the start of the partnership, Lufthansa Technik Philippines has been the steadfast guardian of PAL’s fleet, ensuring the airworthiness of everything from its workhorse narrow-bodies to its long-haul wide-body jets.
A Foundation Built on Expertise
The partnership’s genesis was rooted in PAL’s need for world-class MRO services for its Airbus aircraft, which part of a major fleet renewal back in 1995. At the same time, Lufthansa Technik was looking to expand its footprint in emerging markets, with the Philippines as one of the key markets being considered.
Lufthansa Technik Philippines, a joint venture between Lufthansa Technik AG and MacroAsia Corporation, brought to the table the rigorous German engineering standards and a deep well of technical expertise. For Philippine Airlines, this meant access to cutting-edge MRO capabilities right on its doorstep, minimizing ferry flights and maximizing operational uptime.
Over the last 25 years, Lufthansa Technik Philippines has been instrumental in supporting PAL’s fleet evolution. From the early days of servicing Airbus A330s and A340s to the integration of modern Boeing 777s and the continuous maintenance of its extensive Airbus A320 family, the company’s hangars in Manila have been a constant hive of activity. Services have spanned the full spectrum of MRO: heavy base maintenance checks, including comprehensive inspections of an aircraft’s systems and components done every 18-36 months, extensive repairs that involve complete disassembly and reassembly of the aircraft done every six to 12 years, complex aircraft modifications and extensive component repairs to support operational requirements, and even sophisticated cabin modifications.
Navigating the Skies Together
The aviation industry is no stranger to headwinds, from global economic downturns to unprecedented crises like the recent pandemic. Yet, the partnership between Lufthansa Technik Philippines and PAL has proven resilient. Even during challenging periods, both entities demonstrated a shared commitment to recovery and continuity. Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ consistent delivery of high-quality, on-time services has been a cornerstone of PAL’s operational reliability, directly impacting the airline’s ability to serve its passengers and maintain its flight schedules.
“Our 25-year journey with Philippine Airlines is a source of immense pride for everyone at Lufthansa Technik Philippines,” stated Holger Beck, President and CEO of Lufthansa Technik Philippines. “It’s a partnership built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared dedication to aviation safety and excellence. We’ve grown together, faced challenges together, and continuously innovated to meet PAL’s evolving needs.”
Similarly, PAL highlights the strategic value of having a world-class MRO partner locally.
“Lufthansa Technik Philippines has been a vital partner in upholding the safety and reliability that define our airline,” commented Richard Nuttall, President of Philippine Airlines. “Their support allows us to pursue our vision of being globally recognized for excellence, while ensuring that every passenger experiences the care and comfort that come with flying with PAL.”
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
As both companies look to the future, the partnership remains as vital as ever. With PAL continuing fleet modernization plans and the aviation industry sustaining its post-pandemic recovery, the demand for efficient and advanced MRO solutions will only intensify. The quarter-century mark is not just a look back at past achievements but a springboard for continued collaboration, innovation, and sustained growth.
The enduring alliance between Lufthansa Technik Philippines and Philippine Airlines stands as a powerful example of how strategic partnerships can drive success and resilience in the complex world of commercial aviation, ensuring that the wings of the Philippines continue to soar for many years to come.
Filipino pop-rock band The Juans has been a soundtrack of love, heartbreak and everything in between, since 2015. Composed of Carl Guevarra, Chael Adriano, Japs Mendoza and RJ Cruz, the band is celebrating its 10th anniversary with TAWID, a brand-new album that turns emotions into worlds to be explored, released last September 12, 2025.
TAWID invites listeners to cross from confusion to clarity, from hoping to healing, and from the weight of pain to something lighter.
“TAWID is a companion for anyone at the crossroads. It’s not about reaching the finish line, but about embracing the messy middle—the process of still crossing, still choosing, still feeling,” said Carl Guevarra, The Juans’ leader.
The Juans kicked off their anniversary events with TAWID LIVE: The Album Showcase at the SM North EDSA Skydome last August 29, where they treated the fans to an electrifying performance and first listen to the new tracks.
The album carries songs that mirror life’s highs, lows and in-betweens, including fan favorites Ngiti, Gusto Kita and Ako Na Lang, as well as new collaborations like Missed Call feat. Rhodessa and latest hit Ano Ba Talaga Tayo? feat. Janine Berdin.
The momentum carried on as the album officially dropped on Spotify, YouTube and digital streaming platforms last September 12. On the same day, the band launched their nationwide album tour at Glorietta, Makati, giving fans across the country a chance to experience the songs live.
From October to December 2025, The Juans will continue to bring TAWID closer to Juanistas nationwide with mall shows, live gigs and fan engagements.
With a decade of music behind them and a new era ahead, The Juans are ready to cross new borders—creatively and emotionally.
“We’ve always believed that there’s a The Juans song for every season you go through,” Carl added.
“TAWID is proof of that. Wherever you are in your journey, we hope this album feels like a friend walking with you.”
