A Special Issue Spotlight: The Impact and Influence of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo in Rising Tigers Magazine’s Cover Story

Rising Tigers Magazine closes 2025 with a landmark edition — a special issue featuring Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), on its cover. More than a feature, the publication positions this moment as a national recognition of his profound influence, transformative leadership, and far-reaching contributions to both the Church and the country.

A Leader Who Shapes Communities and Nations

Since assuming leadership of INC in 2009, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo has been at the helm of a dynamic era marked by growth, modernization, and strengthened community engagement. The December 2025 issue highlights:

 • Humanitarian missions and outreach programs that continue to serve Filipinos and communities abroad through INC’s Lingap and Aid to Humanity projects.

 • Expansion and construction of worship buildings that symbolize unity, faith, and the global reach of the Church.

 • Efforts in community building, including educational, livelihood, and socio-civic initiatives that uplift lives beyond religious lines.

Rising Tigers frames Brother Eduardo not just as a spiritual shepherd but as a nation-builder — a leader whose vision extends well beyond ecclesiastical responsibilities. His work, the magazine notes, has contributed to strengthening Filipino communities, fostering resilience, and promoting unity in an increasingly complex world.

Where to Get the Special Issue

The special edition is now available in major bookstores nationwide, including:

 • National Book Store

 • Fullybooked 

at TriNoma, Robinsons Galleria, SM Megamall, and SM North EDSA

Distribution is expanding to even more branches in the coming days. The issue can also be found at select Petron, Shell, and Caltex stations, and online through Shopee for convenient delivery.

For inquiries or direct orders, readers may call or message +63 977 897 8877.

Why This Issue Matters

This special edition holds significance across different audiences:

 • For INC members and supporters: It stands as a proud acknowledgment of Brother Eduardo’s enduring guidance and the Church’s growing global humanitarian footprint.

 • For the wider public: The issue offers a closer look at how INC is not only a Church, but as a strong social force with national and international influence.

 • For leadership enthusiasts and social observers: It aligns with Rising Tigers Magazine’s mission of spotlighting individuals whose work shapes contemporary society, helping frame the evolving role of religious leadership in the Philippines today.

Rising Tigers’ special issue on Brother Eduardo V. Manalo is not just a cover story — it is a narrative of leadership, service, and influence that continues to inspire millions.

TAG Media Group Showcases Five Prestigious Print Magazines Inspiring and Informing the Nation

Today, with the domination of digital noise and fleeting online content, TAG Media Group stands tall as a champion of meaningful storytelling through the enduring power of print. Under the leadership of its founders, Andrew Troy Nicolas and Grace Bondad Nicolas, the group proudly presents its five flagship publications: Rising Tigers, InCharge, TopNewsAsia, EXQ, and Leading Women, each crafted to inspire, empower, and inform readers across the country.

Together, these magazines form a powerful ecosystem of narratives that highlight leadership, innovation, culture, diplomacy, lifestyle, and women empowerment.

Rising Tigers spotlights the nation’s most promising leaders and game-changers who are shaping the future.

InCharge features policymakers, diplomats, government leaders, and nation-builders driving positive change.

TopNewsAsia delivers sharp, intelligent, and in-depth coverage of current events, regional affairs and global developments.

EXQ celebrates not just luxury, culture, travel, and refined living but also high profile Changemakers — a prestige lifestyle magazine for the discerning reader.

Leading Women honors powerful Filipinas making meaningful contributions in business, community-building, and public service.

Why Print Remains Prestige — And Why It Still Matters

Amid the rapid rise of digital platforms, print continues to hold its place as a symbol of credibility, sophistication, and permanence.

Print is Prestige.

Being featured in a print magazine signifies value and recognition. It represents careful curation and editorial excellence, turning stories into tangible pieces of history.

Print is Credible.

Printed content undergoes strict editorial review, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and depth — a refreshing contrast to the fast-paced world of misinformation online.

Print is Lasting.

A magazine doesn’t disappear with a swipe. It lives on coffee tables, office lobbies, galleries, hotels, and bookshelves, staying relevant long after it is first read.

Print is Experience.

The feel of the pages, the artistry of the layout, and the presence of a physical publication create a reading experience that digital content simply cannot match.

TAG Media Group believes that while digital is immediate, print is impactful.

Making Inspiration Accessible Nationwide

To ensure wider reach, all five magazines are available through major outlets across the Philippines:

National Book Store

Fully Booked

Shopee

Lazada

Total, Caltex, and Shell Gas Stations

Wherever readers go — from bookstores to expressway stops — TAG Media Group ensures that leadership stories and inspirational features are within reach.

Guided by the visionary leadership of Andrew Troy Nicolas and Grace Bondad Nicolas, TAG Media Group continues to redefine the modern magazine landscape. Through premium print publications, the group remains committed to uplifting Filipino excellence and creating a legacy of inspiration for generations.

Five magazines. One mission.

To inspire. To inform.

To lead the nation with stories that matter.

A Year of Integrity, Innovation, and Impact: Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia Leads COMELEC Into a New Era

In a year defined by overlapping election cycles, heightened public scrutiny, and the continued push for transparency in governance, one leader rose to meet every challenge with clarity, conviction, and uncompromising integrity. For these reasons and more, Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia graces our cover as one of the most influential public servants of 2025.

Chairman Garcia’s leadership at the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has been nothing short of transformative. This year, he navigated one of the most complex election calendars in recent history — synchronizing preparations for the 2025 midterm elections, overseeing the Random Manual Audit (RMA) reforms, strengthening the readiness for the first BARMM Elections, and elevating voter education initiatives nationwide.

Under his watch, COMELEC achieved remarkable milestones:

Restoring Public Trust Through Transparency

Chairman Garcia implemented strengthened audit mechanisms and more inclusive election processes, ensuring that public confidence in electoral results remained steadfast. His unwavering stance on clean, credible, and peaceful elections solidified COMELEC’s reputation as one of the most trusted institutions in the country.

Strengthening Voter Education and Community Engagement

From youth forums to grassroots campaigns, the Chairman launched expanded voter education programs aimed at empowering first-time voters, marginalized sectors, and communities across the archipelago. His hands-on approach showed that credible elections begin long before the ballots are cast.

Ensuring Accountability and Good Governance

Chairman Garcia spearheaded decisive actions against erring contractors and enhanced partnerships with government agencies, reinforcing COMELEC’s commitment to efficiency and accountability. His swift responses to operational challenges demonstrated a leadership style rooted in fairness and public service.

Technological Improvements and Modern Election Management

His drive to modernize COMELEC’s systems resulted in improved digital processes, enhanced training for election officers, and better preparedness for future automated elections. Garcia’s vision embraced innovation while protecting the integrity of every vote.

Prestigious Recognitions and Institutional Achievements

This year also marked numerous commendations honoring his contributions to electoral reforms, public service, and legal excellence. Chairman Garcia’s steadfast leadership has been widely recognized both inside and outside the government, strengthening COMELEC’s institutional legacy.

As we celebrate Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia on this month’s cover, we honor not only his accomplishments but also the spirit of public service he embodies, disciplined, transparent, and deeply committed to a democracy that works for every Filipino.

In a time when leadership must be both firm and compassionate, Chairman Garcia stands as a guiding force, steering the nation’s electoral system toward progress, fairness, and integrity. His work in 2025 is not just a list of achievements, it is a testament to what governance can look like when purpose and principle come together.

Grace Bondad Nicolas

Editor-in-chief

Steadfast Leadership: How Ka Eduardo Shaped a Worldwide Church

Rising Tigers Magazine — December Special Issue

For the first time, Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) Executive Minister Brother Eduardo V. Manalo graces the cover of a national magazine—a testament to his profound influence not only within the Church but across the nation.

Since assuming leadership in 2009, Ka Eduardo has quietly but powerfully strengthened the Iglesia Ni Cristo’s global presence, expanding its humanitarian efforts, constructing world-class houses of worship, and launching wide-reaching programs that uplift communities regardless of faith or background. His disciplined, steadfast leadership has guided millions toward unity, resilience, and spiritual clarity at a time when society faces division and uncertainty.

Under his stewardship, the Church’s civic initiatives—from the Lingap sa Mamamayan outreach to large-scale livelihood and disaster-response operations—have become models of organized compassion and community service. His vision continues to inspire inclusive nation-building, demonstrating how faith, when anchored in purpose and integrity, can transform lives.

This December Special Issue honors Ka Eduardo V. Manalo not just as a spiritual leader, but as a national figure whose influence extends far beyond—shaping values, strengthening communities, and offering unwavering guidance in a rapidly changing world.

Available in National Book Stores, Fullybooked, Caltex, Shell, Total, Shopee, Lazada Nationwide. 

For direct order: 09778978877 or president@rising-tigers.asia 

#inc #iglesianicristo #NationBuilders #KaEduardoManalo #PASUGO #eduardomanalo

COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and DLSU Strengthen Voter Education Efforts in Intramuros Engagement

MANILA — Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia underscored the importance of an informed electorate as the poll body welcomed students from De La Salle University (DLSU) for a comprehensive voter education session and guided “Lakbay Aral” tour at Palacio del Gobernador on November 19.

The initiative, led by the COMELEC Education and Information Department (EID), is part of the Commission’s intensified nationwide campaign to broaden public understanding of election processes ahead of the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.

Chairman Garcia, joined by Commissioner Ernesto Ferdinand P. Maceda Jr. and EID Director III Atty. Abigail Claire F. Carbero-Llacuna, personally greeted the DLSU delegation headed by Atty. Luis Gonzaga Bonoan Jr. of the university’s Legal Management program. Garcia highlighted the vital role schools play in shaping civic-minded youth, noting that universities serve as breeding grounds for the country’s next generation of leaders and responsible voters.

“COMELEC has always believed in the power of academic partnerships. When students understand the value of their vote, they strengthen the democratic institutions meant to protect their future,” Garcia emphasized.

During the session, COMELEC spokesperson and Director IV Atty. John Rex C. Laudiangco delivered an in-depth online presentation tackling the fundamentals of suffrage, the Commission’s online voting and counting system, and the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation during election periods. He emphasized that “truth becomes true power when we choose to act on it through voting,” urging students to become proactive and discerning participants in the electoral process.

Before the lecture, participants toured key areas of the COMELEC offices, guided by Atty. Patrick Sacramento and Ms. Pamela Martinez of the EID, giving students a rare behind-the-scenes view of how election-related decisions, systems, and safeguards are developed.

DLSU’s involvement, Garcia noted, exemplifies how academic institutions can significantly contribute to strengthening democratic engagement. He added that COMELEC remains committed to sustaining such collaborations to ensure that young voters are equipped with knowledge amid evolving election technologies and online environments.

The successful event reinforces the Commission’s push for transparency, accessibility, and civic empowerment. With Chair Garcia at the helm, COMELEC continues to open its doors to schools and organizations nationwide—anchored on the belief that an enlightened youth sector is indispensable to a credible and resilient democracy.

COMELEC Chair George Erwin M. García Ensures Order, Due Process as Political Finance Probes Advance

MANILA, Philippines — Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica García reaffirmed the poll body’s commitment to due process and timely resolution as the agency moves forward with its review of contractors and candidates linked to alleged irregularities in political finance and election spending.

The ongoing inquiry involves public works contractors from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), candidates from the 2022 elections, and the COMELEC’s Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD), which is leading the fact-finding review. Several issues also overlap with the COMELEC Law Department, the Supreme Court’s timeline, and the Bangsamoro Parliament’s legislation for the BAARM election. 

Final Extension for DPWH Contractors

Chairman García confirmed that some DPWH contractors have submitted their replies to PFAD, while others requested more time due to late receipt of notices sent through registered mail.

“It would be better to just give it to them, but that will be the last extension that we will give to them,” García said.

He added that contractors were granted five days to file counter-affidavits or explanations. Delays were attributed partly to those based in the provinces who received their documents later than expected.

PFAD is now reviewing the replies and preparing show-cause orders for candidates identified by the contractors.

“You can expect that, if not today, until tomorrow, those show-cause orders might be released,” García said.

Filtering Cases Before They Reach the Commission En Banc

García emphasized that PFAD has full authority to dismiss cases that show no basis for further action.

“If the findings… have no case, this will not reach the En Banc. This will be dismissed by the Political Finance and Affairs Department,” he said.

However, if PFAD recommends filing cases against contractors or candidates, these will be elevated to the COMELEC Commission En Banc for approval.

García set an internal target for resolution:

“As much as possible, before the end of this year of December, the Commission should have a disposition.”

Interaction Between PFAD and Law Department Complicates Timelines

A complication arose when private lawyers filed a separate formal complaint with the COMELEC Law Department, bringing in additional evidence not originally held by PFAD.

Because PFAD initiated its own motu proprio investigation, and the Law Department now has a formal case under oath, the COMELEC is handling two different proceedings with different complainants and evidence sets.

García admitted that the situation must be navigated carefully:

“We took our own vote. We ourselves investigated, no one asked, no one demanded. But lawyers later filed a formal case, so the issue became legal.”

He noted the risk of perceived prejudgment if the PFAD disposition is delayed further.

“People have been waiting for a long time… at all costs, the En Banc should immediately dispose of that case so it will be clear what will happen to the case pending in the Law Department,” he said.

SALN, SOCE Discrepancies Under Review

COMELEC also issued a show-cause order over alleged discrepancies between Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) and Statements of Contribution and Expenses (SOCE), citing Section 99 of the Omnibus Election Code.

García clarified that COMELEC is not accusing anyone yet:

“We have not yet said that the declaration was wrong… because we need to hear it first.”

Failures in declaration could result in violations of Republic Act 7166 or even perjury, he said, but only if evidence proves intentional misrepresentation.

Chairman García to Inhibit from Certain Cases

Asked whether he would inhibit himself in cases involving personalities he previously had professional ties with, García said:

“Because of what happened in the past, I will probably inhibit… just to be fair.”

He said the move is meant to avoid any perception of influence on colleagues or prejudgment of the facts.

BARMM Elections: Possible Postponement if Parliament Misses Deadline

With the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) rescheduled next year, García warned that the Comelec’s timeline hinges on the passage of enabling laws by the Bangsamoro Parliament and the deadlines of the Supreme Court.

“If we really didn’t pass the law by November 30, it will be hard for us to push the election on March 30,” he said.

García stressed that this is a self-imposed deadline intended to keep COMELEC on track, not to pressure Parliament.

Under Section 5 of the Omnibus Election Code, elections can be postponed due to violence, terrorism, force majeure, or even delays that make preparations impossible.

“It’s very speculative at this point… We still trust the Parliament that they might do something before November 30,” he added.

New Accreditation Petitions May Further Comp

COMELEC Chair García Pushes Due Process, Deadlines in Contractor and Finance Probes

MANILA — Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin García said in the recent ambush interview that the poll body is moving to finalize show-cause orders and resolve political finance inquiries involving public works contractors and candidates from the 2022 elections, as the Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) continues its review of submitted explanations.

García confirmed that some DPWH contractors have submitted their replies, while others requested more time after receiving notices late. COMELEC granted a final five-day extension, he said.

“That will be the last extension that we will give to them,” Garcia stressed. “We are not in a hurry, but what is important is that we can afford due process so no one can say anything.”

PFAD is now preparing show-cause orders for candidates named by contractors. “If not today, until tomorrow, those show-cause orders might be released,” he said.

García added that PFAD may dismiss cases that lack basis without elevating them to the Commission En Banc, but cases with sufficient grounds will be endorsed for approval. He aims for resolutions “before the end of the year.”

A complication emerged after private lawyers filed a separate complaint before the COMELEC Law Department, which now conducts a formal preliminary investigation. García acknowledged the need to issue PFAD’s findings promptly to avoid prejudgment concerns.

On discrepancies involving SALNs and SOCEs, he said the PFAD investigation remains purely fact-finding. “We have not yet said the declaration was wrong because we need to hear it first,” he said, noting that violations could fall under RA 7166 or even perjury if proven.

García also said he may inhibit from certain cases to maintain impartiality.

Meanwhile, the Chairman warned that the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections may face delays if the Bangsamoro Parliament fails to pass needed legislation by November 30, noting COMELEC’s preparation timelines and Supreme Court deadlines.

“It’s a self-imposed deadline to pressure the Comelec, not the Parliament,” he clarified.

He also cautioned that reopening accreditation for political parties and sectoral groups in BARMM would further complicate ballot finalization and preparations.

Despite overlapping investigations and legislative uncertainties, García said COMELEC will continue to act strictly within its mandate. “We want our process to be pure and not based on sentiment or popular decision,” he added.