Sabado, Hulyo 18, 2026

Fridates Musika at Likhang Filipino Brings Candon, Ilocos Sur



NCCA and Partners Feature Ilokano Music, Creatives, and Culture in Manila on July 17, 2026


*MANILA | July 17, 2026* — The sound of Ilokano guitars and the colors of inabel filled *Roxas Boulevard* today as the *“Fridates Musika at Likhang Filipino”* roadshow featured *Candon City, Ilocos Sur* as its regional spotlight.


Organized by NCCA in partnership with the *Candon City LGU*, the event aimed to promote *Filipino regional talent, and cultural pride* to Metro Manila audiences.


 *CANDON TAKES CENTER STAGE*

For an afternoon delight, Roxas Boulevard turned into a mini-Candon. The *“Fridates Musika”* stage featured live performances from Candon artists:

*Crispin Guitar rondalla ensemble* - showcasing Candon’s heritage as home of the guitar makers

*Ilokano folk songs and Bagoos* performed by local youth and senior groups  

 *OPM acoustic sets* from Candon-based bands

*Cultural dances* with inabel costumes


“_Dinala namin ang Candon sa Manila. Para marinig at makita ng lahat na ang Ilokano ay mayaman sa musika at talento,_” said a representative from Candon City LGU.

“_Ang Fridates Musika ay hindi lang concert. Ito ay plataporma para itaguyod ang kabuhayan, kultura, at dignidad ng bawat Pilipino


The event reaffirms that Filipino creativity and craftsmanship — from Candon to Manila — deserve a national stage.






#FridatesMusika #LikhangFilipino #CandonCity #IlocosSur 





Biyernes, Hulyo 17, 2026

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos Leads DSWD “Walang Gutom 2027” Launch at MICE, Quezon City



With QC Mayor Joy Belmonte and DSWD Sec. Rex Gatchalian, Government Pushes for Zero Hunger by 2027


*QUEZON CITY, July 17, 2026* — The *Department of Social Welfare and Development - DSWD* held a national stakeholder briefing for the *“Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program”* today at the *MICE Center, Quezon City*, led by *First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos* as Guest of Honor.


Joining her were *Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte* and *DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian*, along with LGU officials, partner agencies, CSOs, and private sector stakeholders.


The event signals the government’s intensified push to achieve *Zero Hunger by 2027* and provide dignified food assistance to 1 million food-poor Filipino families.


 *“FOOD WITH DIGNITY” FOR FILIPINO FAMILIES*

In her message, *First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos* emphasized that the program is more than just aid.


“_Ang Walang Gutom 2027 ay para matiyak na walang pamilyang matutulog na gutom. Binibigyan natin sila hindi lang ng pagkain, kundi ng pagpipilian at dignidad,_” the First Lady said.


Under the program, beneficiaries receive a *₱3,000 monthly Electronic Benefit Transfer - EBT Card* instead of relief packs. The card can be used to buy rice, vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, eggs, milk, and other nutritious food in DSWD-accredited stores.


 *QC AND DSWD: PARTNERS IN FOOD SECURITY*

*Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte* pledged the city’s full support for validation, monitoring, and rollout in barangays.


“_Sa Quezon City, food security is a priority. We welcome Walang Gutom 2027 because it empowers families to choose what to eat while we teach them proper nutrition. Walang maiiwan,_” Mayor Belmonte stated.


*DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian* explained the program’s 3 components: 

1. *₱3,000 Monthly Food E-Voucher* 

2. *Nutrition Education* - required monthly counseling and cooking demos

3. *Data-Driven Monitoring* - to track purchases and nutrition outcomes


“_By 2027, our goal is clear: 1 million families lifted from food poverty. This is a whole-of-nation approach,_” Sec. Gatchalian said.

 *WHO CAN BE BENEFICIARIES?*

Priority households include:

- *Food-poor families* in Listahanan 3 

- *Households with pregnant, lactating mothers, and children 0-5 years old*

- *Senior Citizens and PWDs* with no regular income

- *4Ps beneficiaries* who remain food insecure


Eligible families will be contacted directly by DSWD and their LGU. *No payment or fees are required* to join.# *NEXT STEPS*

Following the MICE launch, DSWD will roll out regional orientations and onboard more partner groceries and community stores nationwide. 


The public may coordinate with their *City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office* or *DSWD Field Office* for questions.

































#WalangGutom2027 #DSWD #BagongPilipinas #FirstLadyLizaMarcos #JoyBelmonte #RexGatchalian #ZeroHunger



Martes, Hulyo 14, 2026

Century Tuna Superbods 2026 Announces "Superbod Era" Finalists During Highly Anticipated Callback

 PRESS Release 




The Century Tuna Superbods 2026 Top 20 Male Finalists and Top 20 Female Finalists


Celebrating its 20th year, Century Tuna Superbods enters a new era that reflects two decades of inspiring healthier Filipinos. The country’s premier fitness competition is officially back, but if you think you know what to expect from Superbods, prepare to be surprised once again. During the highly anticipated Final Callback, a powerful truth became undeniable: Superbods has officially evolved, and the exciting new Superbod Era has arrived.


Out of hundreds of hopeful applicants from all over the country, the chosen semi-finalists stepped into the spotlight to completely redefine modern fitness. This year, the brand is signaling a profound shift: there is so much more to the bodies seen on stage. The entire Callback event served as a powerful revelation of a more holistic Superbod. Audiences and judges alike were treated to a compelling showcase that went far beneath the surface—unpacking more of the real, raw personal transformations, unshakeable resilience, and a diverse range of life experiences that left everyone in awe as hosts 2018 Century Tuna Superbod Grand Winner Maureen Montagne and radio DJ KC Montero highlighted the candidates' unique presences both on-stage and off-stage.


In this new Superbod Era, healthy bodies are celebrated not just as an end goal, but as the visible reflection of one’s mental strength, lifestyle discipline, and dedication to a purposeful life built on wellness and identity.


At the heart of this historic evolution is Century Tuna’s unwavering commitment to championing and continuously inspiring Filipinos to become the best versions of themselves. Reflecting this vision of true inclusivity, the competition has opened its doors wider than ever, welcoming individuals of all body types and walks of life. This new era was vividly brought to life during the Callback by hopefuls whose journeys reflect the changing face of fitness in the Philippines.


The stage saw multiple returning contenders on their second, third, and even fourth attempts to finally claim the title, proving that true dedication never quits. The runway came alive with Supermoms from all backgrounds—including corporate professionals, former models restarting their careers, and mothers bravely finding themselves again through wellness—alongside handson Superdads redefining modern parenting.


Even families took on the fitness journey together, showcasing unconventional parent-child dynamics where generations deeply influence each other's health; this included a father-daughter duo and an inspiring family composed of a mother competing alongside her two sons. This incredible mix was further amplified by established celebrities and models who refuse to give up on chasing their ultimate Superbod dreams, as well as real-life fitness coaches who leave their gym floors to inspire a much grander audience. Together with trailblazing challengers shattering barriers of all kinds on the fitness stage—such as transgender men joining the competition for the first time and a powerful wave of "ageless" contenders proving that vitality has no expiration date—this historic batch proves that the Superbod life truly belongs to everyone.


"Every edition, the Superbods competition evolves, but our core mission remains unchanged—to inspire Filipinos to unlock the healthiest, most vibrant versions of themselves," said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President, General Manager, and Group Business Head of Century Pacific Food Inc. "As we stepped into the 'Superbod Era,' we celebrate health as a powerful life stage where passion, dedication, and holistic wellness came together. The incredible energy and stories we witnessed at the Callback prove that the modern Filipino is ready to claim their own healthy era, and we are excited to see our new finalists inspire the nation."


The esteemed panel of judges—which included executives from Century Pacific Food Inc., actress and fitness advocate Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Century Tuna Superbods 2018 and 2022 Grand Winners Jules Aquino and Christelle Abello—evaluated the contenders. The hopefuls were put to the test through a high-energy walk-off and a crucial question-and-answer segment, showcasing their unique physiques, natural charisma, commanding stage presence, and deep advocacy for fitness and holistic wellness.


The inspiring Callback event culminated in the official announcement of the finalists who will move forward to the grand finale: 


The Top 20 Male Finalists who advanced include: Aaron Maniego, Ameer Ahid, Herschel Verne Sanchez, MJ Ordillano, Arvin Corpuz, Jay Gonzaga, Austin Dizon Cabatana, Nunoy van den Burgh, Jaco Benin, Paul John Galang, Christopher lan El Jouni, Joselito Florendo, Prince De Guzman, Rafael Cruz Tan, Ken Batino, Dominic Camozzi, Kim Panique, RC Kashyap, Ricardo De Jesus, and Lorenzo Isip. 


Meanwhile, the Top 20 Female Finalists who successfully made the cut are: Alana Maris Montemayor, Janica Reloxe, Maan Marquez, Aleiah Torres, Jarly Verceles, Jasmine Rovelle Paguio, Anna Valencia Lakrini, Ashley Cayuca, Chucel Njigha, Ronalyn Lalimo, Jilliane Robillos, Rovin Mizuse, Diane Querrer, Donnabelle Erno, Kristen Bea H. Chua, Thalia Joaquin, Vienne Luna, Gee Canlas, Lou Yanong, and Gia Gonzales.


What began as a premier fitness challenge has evolved into a powerful cultural movement. By redefining healthy living and elevating everyday heroes, Century Tuna Superbods continues to break boundaries and inspire a nation toward wellness, self-love, and active lifestyles. The countdown to the finals is on—witness the new era unfold.


For more information on the upcoming Superbods competition, visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or watch out for updates on Century Tuna’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna.


Huwebes, Hulyo 9, 2026

TRAVEL MADNESS EXPO 2026 Returns to SMX MOA



Book Flights, Hotels, and Tours with Up to 70% Off This July 10–12, 2026.


*PASAY CITY* — Get ready to travel for less! *Travel Madness Expo 2026* is back at the *SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City* from *July 10 to 12, 2026*. 


The 3-day travel fair brings together airlines, hotels, resorts, and tour operators offering the biggest promos and packages for both local and international destinations.

 *EVENT DETAILS*

- *What*: Travel Madness Expo 2026

- *When*: *July 10–12, 2026* | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

- *Where*: *SMX Convention Center, Halls 1–4, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City*



 *WHAT TO EXPECT*

*1. Airfare Seat Sales*  

Major airlines will drop promo fares to top Philippine destinations like Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, Siargao, Bohol, and international routes to Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and the Middle East.


*2. Hotel & Resort Deals*  

Enjoy up to 70% off on hotel stays, resort packages, and staycations. Perfect for long weekends and holiday planning.


*3. Tour Packages*  

Travel agencies will offer bundled tours, land arrangements, and DIY itineraries with exclusive on-site discounts and freebies.


*4. Travel Perks*  

Look out for raffles, free travel insurance, credit card and e-wallet promos, and limited-time vouchers for on-the-spot bookings.


*VISITOR TIPS*

- *Come early* for the best seat sale slots — they sell out fast on Day 1

- *Bring valid ID + payment* to book instantly and avail card promos  

- *Create a wishlist* of destinations to compare deals across booths


“_Travel Madness Expo is the perfect time to plan and book your 2026 trips. Whether it’s a beach trip, a city escape, or an out-of-the-country vacation, we’ve got deals for every budget,_” said the event organizer.


*Getting to SMX MOA*:  

Accessible via MRT-3 Taft, EDSA Carousel Bus, and P2P buses. Parking available at MOA Arena and SM Mall parking buildings.


For exhibitor list and floor map, follow the official *Travel Madness Expo* Facebook page.


See you at *SMX MOA this July 10–12, 2026*!


#TravelMadnessExpo2026 #SMXMOA #TravelDealsPH 

Lunes, Hulyo 6, 2026

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla Joins Mayor Najie Gapangada in San Pablo City’s State of the City Address on July 6, 2026




*SAN PABLO CITY, LAGUNA* — The City Government of San Pablo held its *State of the City Address (SOCA) 2026* on *Monday, July 6, 2026, at 1pm at the San Pablo City LGU Convention Center

Marking the first year of the Gapangada administration, the event will featured *Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla as Keynote Speaker. The Secretary mentioned the fire Truck allotted to San Pablo, the 100 million for rice allocation and 100 million for medicine at his closing remark additional allocation shall be in granted to San Pablo City, which garnered a loud applause from the audience.




 *Theme: “Tuloy ang Tunay na Pagbabago: Bukas, Makatao, at Digital na San Pablo”*


Mayor Arcadio “Najie” Gapangada Jr. presented the administration’s accomplishments and plans. Secretary Remulla   delivered the keynote address on national-local government partnership, good governance, and public safety.




*Highlights of the Program:*


*1. Good Governance and Kotong-Free City*  

Mayor Gapangada reported on reforms under the “KFC – Kotong-Free City” initiative, department reorganization, and anti-corruption measures to streamline city services.


*2. Digital Transformation*  

The City Information Office showcase progress in digital governance: expanded eGov PH services, online Business Permits & Licensing, and the Real Property Information System. The SOCA also outlined the city’s roadmap for a more data-driven and paperless local government.


*3. National-Local Collaboration*  

With Secretary Remulla as keynote speaker, the program emphasized DILG’s support for LGU programs on peace and order, disaster preparedness, and capacity building for barangays.


 *Event Details*

*What*: State of the City Address 2026 with Keynote Address by DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla

*Who*: Hon. Arcadio “Najie” Gapangada Jr., City Mayor | Hon. Jonvic Remulla, DILG Secretary

*When*: *July 6, 2026 | 1pm

 *Where*: San Pablo City Hall LGU Convention Center 

Invited guests include members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, barangay officials, department heads, and representatives from the business and civil society sectors.


"With the support of the national government through Secretary Remulla, we are doubling down on transparency, digital services, and a government that truly serves the people,_” Mayor Gapangada said.




#SOCA2026 #TuloyAngPagbabago 

#MayorGapangada #SanPabloCity

Huwebes, Hulyo 2, 2026

Mrs. Universe Philippines Queen Ambassadress Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas: Championing Public Awareness and Animal Welfare




Purpose, compassion, and leadership took center stage as Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas, President of Rising Tigers Magazine and co-founder of TAG Media Group, was presented as the Mrs. Universe Philippines Queen Ambassadress 2026 during the Grand Coronation Night on June 28, 2026, at The Tent City of The Manila Hotel.


A respected media executive and advocate for positive change, Grace exemplifies the modern Filipina leader, one who uses her platform to inspire, educate, and make a meaningful difference in society. As Queen Ambassadress, she carries forward her advocacies of Public Awareness and Animal Welfare, causes that have shaped her personal and professional journey.


Believing that information empowers communities, Grace has dedicated much of her career to promoting public awareness through media and communications. Through the establishment of TAG Media and Public Relations, she has created platforms that deliver timely, relevant, and meaningful information, encouraging informed conversations and greater public engagement on issues that matter.


What began as a purpose-driven mission has flourished into a growing media network composed of five print magazines, with a sixth publication set to launch soon. Under her leadership, these publications have become platforms for truth, awareness, education, and social impact, highlighting stories that inspire progress and encourage positive change across industries and communities.


Equally close to her heart is animal welfare. Grace advocates for the protection, care, and responsible treatment of animals, promoting compassion and encouraging society to foster a more humane and caring environment. Her dedication reflects her belief that true leadership extends beyond professional success and includes caring for the most vulnerable and voiceless.


Her appointment as Mrs. Universe Philippines Queen Ambassadress 2026 is a celebration of purposeful leadership and meaningful advocacy. Through her unwavering commitment to public awareness and animal welfare, Grace Bondad-Nicolas continues to demonstrate that influence is most powerful when it is used to educate, uplift, and inspire others to create lasting positive change.




Martes, Hunyo 30, 2026

Champions Sovereign Cloud and AI at National ICT Summit 2026