Empowering Innovation: Grace Santiago of Lync Solutions Featured in Leading Women Magazine

At the recent magazine signing event hosted by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine, another inspiring leader shared the spotlight alongside Brian Poe Llamanzares, young entrepreneur Grace Santiago, CEO of Lync Solutions, and one of the featured personalities of the maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine.

Held on March 5, 2026 at National Bookstore, the event brought together more than 120 readers, professionals, and aspiring leaders eager to meet the individuals whose stories are shaping conversations around leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Among them, Santiago stood out as a powerful representation of the modern Filipina entrepreneur, bold, innovative, and forward-thinking. As CEO of Lync Solutions, she has built a reputation for embracing emerging technologies and helping businesses adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

During the discussion segment of the event, Santiago shared her insights on how technological advancement is transforming industries and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs. She encouraged young professionals and aspiring business leaders to remain open to innovation, emphasizing that adaptability and continuous learning are essential in today’s fast-changing world.

Her message resonated strongly with the audience, particularly students and young entrepreneurs who are navigating the complexities of starting and growing businesses in the digital age. Santiago highlighted that technology should not be feared but embraced as a powerful tool that can expand possibilities, improve efficiency, and open doors to new markets.

Being featured in Leading Women Magazine reflects Santiago’s growing influence as a business leader who is helping shape the next generation of Filipino entrepreneurship. Her journey illustrates how determination, creativity, and a willingness to innovate can transform challenges into opportunities.

The magazine signing event, led by publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas, was designed not only to celebrate the leaders featured in the magazine but also to create meaningful interaction between them and the public. For many attendees, hearing directly from Santiago offered practical inspiration on how young leaders can harness technology and innovation to build sustainable and impactful ventures.

Beyond the pages of the magazine, Santiago’s story continues to inspire a new wave of women leaders who are redefining what it means to succeed in business. Her presence at the event underscored the mission of Leading Women Magazine, to spotlight women who are breaking barriers, leading industries, and empowering others to follow their path.

As conversations about digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and leadership continue to evolve, Grace Santiago represents a new generation of leaders who are not only participating in the future but actively helping shape it.

Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares brought global insights fresh from Davos

Fresh from representing the Philippines at the prestigious World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Brian Poe Llamanzares brought global insights and renewed inspiration to Filipino readers and young leaders during a magazine signing event hosted by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine.

Held on March 5, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at National Bookstore SM Sta. Mesa, the gathering marked the first magazine signing event of the year organized by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine under the leadership of publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas. More than 120 attendees joined the exclusive meet-and-greet, eager to personally engage with leaders whose stories are shaping conversations in governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The current cover of TopNewsAsia features Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares of FPJ Panday Bayanihan, a rising national figure who recently served as one of the Philippine delegates and speakers at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. His participation in the global summit positioned him among world leaders, policymakers, innovators, and economists discussing the future of technology, governance, sustainability, and economic cooperation.

Llamanzares’ presence at the international forum highlights the Philippines’ growing voice in global policy conversations. As a speaker, he shared perspectives on inclusive development, technological transformation, and the importance of preparing societies for the rapid changes brought about by digitalization and artificial intelligence. His participation underscored the country’s commitment to engaging with global partners in shaping solutions to emerging economic and technological challenges.

Upon returning to the Philippines, Llamanzares continued that conversation with the public during the magazine signing event. Rather than a typical autograph session, the gathering evolved into a meaningful dialogue between leaders and readers. Guests were treated to a discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Literacy, where Llamanzares emphasized the importance of equipping Filipinos, particularly the youth, with the skills necessary to thrive in a technology-driven world.

Sharing the stage with him was young entrepreneur Grace Santiago, one of the featured personalities of the maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine and CEO of Lync Solutions. Santiago spoke about how emerging technologies are transforming business, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace innovation and adaptability.

The event was also graced by Rahayu Ningsih of the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines, who shared a message of support and emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge exchange in the ASEAN community.

Beyond the discussions, the magazine signing created an atmosphere where ideas and inspiration flowed freely. Attendees had the rare opportunity to interact directly with the featured personalities, ask questions, exchange insights, and gain a deeper understanding of the stories behind the magazine pages.

Events like this demonstrate the continuing relevance of print media in the digital age. While online platforms deliver instant information, magazine features provide thoughtful narratives that highlight the journeys, values, and visions of influential leaders. Through personal interactions like the signing event, those narratives are transformed into meaningful real-world engagement.

For many students, professionals, and aspiring leaders in attendance, the conversation about artificial intelligence and digital literacy proved especially valuable. As technological change accelerates, understanding how innovation intersects with governance, entrepreneurship, and education has become increasingly important.

Publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas expressed her gratitude to National Bookstore for its continued partnership in supporting initiatives that promote thought leadership and public engagement through print media.

The objective of the event was clear: to create a platform where journalism, leadership, and community interaction converge. Through initiatives like this, TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine aim to highlight individuals who are making an impact locally and globally, while inspiring readers to become more informed and engaged citizens.

For Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares, the journey from the global stage in Davos to a room filled with readers in Manila symbolizes the essence of leadership, bringing global ideas home and making them accessible to the people they aim to serve.

As the first magazine signing event of the year, the gathering set a powerful tone for future engagements where stories published on pages evolve into conversations that inspire action, connection, and progress.

Leadership and Innovation Featured at the Magazine Signing

On March 5, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, readers, supporters, and aspiring leaders gathered at National Bookstore SM Sta. Mesa for the first magazine signing event of the year by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine, led by publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas.

The event highlighted two inspiring personalities whose stories represent leadership and innovation in today’s evolving society. The current cover of TopNewsAsia features Brian Poe Llamanzares, Congressman of FPJ Panday Bayanihan, while the special maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine features young CEO Grace Santiago of Lync Solutions, released in celebration of Women’s Month.

More than 120 attendees joined the exclusive meet-and-greet and magazine signing, creating a rare opportunity for readers to personally interact with the featured leaders whose stories they read about in print. Beyond the autograph session, guests were treated to an insightful discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Literacy, where both Llamanzares and Santiago shared perspectives on how technology is shaping governance, entrepreneurship, and the future workforce.

The magazine signing experience offered several unique advantages. First, it bridged the gap between readers and leaders, transforming magazine features into meaningful personal encounters. Attendees had the chance to ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain deeper insights directly from the personalities featured in the publications. Second, the discussion provided educational value, especially for young professionals and students interested in understanding the impact of artificial intelligence and the importance of digital literacy in today’s rapidly evolving world. Finally, the event strengthened the role of print media as a platform not only for storytelling but also for community engagement and leadership inspiration.

The objective of the gathering was clear: to create a space where journalism, leadership, and public interaction meet. Through this initiative, TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine aim to elevate conversations that matter, highlight leaders making a difference, and inspire readers to become more informed, empowered, and engaged citizens.

Publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas expressed her gratitude to National Bookstore for its continued partnership and support in promoting print media and thought leadership.

As the first magazine signing event of the year, the gathering set the tone for more interactive experiences where stories printed on pages come to life through conversations, connections, and inspiration.

Bridging Nations Through Media: Indonesian Trade Attaché Joins TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine Event

On March 5, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, readers, supporters, and aspiring leaders gathered at National Bookstore for the first magazine signing event of the year hosted by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine, led by publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas.

Adding significance to the occasion was the presence and support of the newly appointed Trade Attaché of the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines, Rahayu Ningsih, whose participation highlighted the growing relationship between media, diplomacy, and cross-cultural collaboration.

The event featured two inspiring personalities whose stories represent leadership and innovation in today’s evolving society. The current cover of TopNewsAsia features Brian Poe Llamanzares, Congressman of FPJ Panday Bayanihan, while the maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine highlights young CEO Grace Santiago of Lync Solutions, released in celebration of National Women’s Month.

More than 120 attendees participated in the exclusive meet-and-greet and magazine signing, creating a rare opportunity for readers to personally interact with the leaders whose stories they read about in print. What made the event even more meaningful was the insightful discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Literacy, where Llamanzares and Santiago shared their perspectives on how technology is transforming governance, entrepreneurship, and the future workforce.

The importance of a magazine signing goes far beyond autographs. It transforms journalism into a living conversation. For readers, it is an opportunity to engage directly with the people behind the headlines and cover stories. For the featured personalities, it becomes a platform to expand ideas, inspire dialogue, and connect with communities that believe in their vision.

Events like this also reaffirm the continuing relevance of print media. In an era dominated by digital platforms, a magazine signing reminds audiences that printed stories carry depth, credibility, and permanence. When readers hold a magazine and meet the leaders featured in its pages, the experience becomes both personal and memorable.

Another key advantage of the gathering was its educational value. Young professionals, students, and entrepreneurs present during the event gained valuable insights about the growing role of artificial intelligence and the need for stronger digital literacy skills in a rapidly evolving world. These discussions demonstrated how media events can serve not only as celebrations of publication but also as platforms for learning and inspiration.

The objective of the gathering was clear: to create a meaningful space where journalism, leadership, and public engagement intersect. Through initiatives like this, TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine continue to elevate conversations that matter, highlight leaders who make a difference, and encourage readers to become informed, empowered, and inspired members of society.

Publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas expressed her sincere gratitude to National Bookstore for its continued partnership in promoting print media and fostering intellectual exchange through events like these.

As the first magazine signing of the year, the event set the tone for more interactive experiences where stories printed on pages come alive through conversations, connections, and inspiration, reminding everyone that behind every magazine cover is not just a story, but a community ready to listen, learn, and lead.

BIR, BTr, and UnionBank Strengthen Digital Tax Payment System Through UPay Partnership*

 BIR Press Release

February 25, 2026

                                                                                                   

         

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), and UnionBank of the Philippines (UnionBank) formally strengthened their digital partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on February 24, 2026, at UnionBank Plaza, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

The agreement integrates UnionBank’s UPay Facility into the national collection system, providing taxpayers with expanded and more convenient web- and mobile-based channels for the payment of taxes and other government obligations.

The MOA marks a major milestone in the evolution of the ePayment Project, first implemented in 2019, by consolidating previous agreements covering UnionBank’s role as an Authorized Agent Bank for the collection and remittance of National Internal Revenue Taxes and Customs Duties. The partnership aims to further enhance efficiency, transparency, and security in electronic tax payments while ensuring timely remittances and accurate collection records.

In his message, BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza emphasized that the agreement forms part of the Bureau’s continuing modernization efforts to improve taxpayer experience and strengthen revenue administration.

“The UPay Facility provides taxpayers with enhanced web and mobile options to settle their obligations, reducing the need for in-person queues and manual processing,” Commissioner Mendoza said. “Sa madaling salita, pinapadali natin ang pagbabayad ng buwis. And when the process is easier, trust grows and voluntary compliance becomes stronger.”

The Commissioner added that the initiative supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to raise service excellence across government and aligns with the Department of Finance’s economic reform agenda. He noted that under the BIR D.A.R.E.S. reform agenda, the partnership reinforces the Bureau’s pillar on Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement.

UnionBank President and CEO Ana Maria Aboitiz Delgado highlighted the bank’s commitment to providing accessible and secure payment channels that support national development.

“Under this supplemental agreement, UnionBank will continue to provide multiple ways for taxpayers to fulfill their obligations — through over-the-counter payments in our branches, digital banking channels, and UPay leveraging InstaPay, PCHC, PayGate, and other electronic payment rails,” Delgado said.

She added that the partnership enables taxpayers to choose the most convenient payment channels while ensuring that collections are promptly and accurately remitted to the Treasury Single Account of the Bureau of the Treasury, thereby strengthening transparency, accountability, and trust in public finance.

The collaboration, she noted, reflects the shared goal of government and the private sector to make compliance easier, reduce friction in public services, and build resilient, inclusive, and customer-centric systems.

Supporting the modernization initiatives highlighted by Commissioner Mendoza, Treasurer of the Philippines Sharon P. Almanza underscored the importance of digital transformation in strengthening public financial management and improving taxpayer access to government services.

“Today marks another important milestone in our digital transformation journey as we modernize tax payment systems to make them more accessible while strengthening public financial management,” Treasurer Almanza said. “Through this Memorandum of Agreement and the UPay Facility, we are introducing secure, convenient, and cost-effective digital payment solutions that will help accelerate remittances and enhance transparency.”

She noted that the agreement builds on reforms such as the implementation of the Treasury Single Account and the expansion of digital payment channels under the BIR’s ePayment Project, further reinforcing the government’s shared goal of efficient and transparent revenue collection.

Also present during the signing were BIR Deputy Commissioners Larry M. Barcelo and Ma. Rosario Charo G. Enriquez-Curiba; and UnionBank Executive Vice President Mimi C. Concha and Ma. Cecilia Teresa S. Bernad. The officials witnessed the formalization of the partnership and reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing secure, efficient, and accessible digital tax payment solutions. ###

No to Vote-Buying and Premature Campaigning in the March 14,2026 Elections as Reminded by Comelec Chair

As the Commission on Elections intensifies preparations for the March 14, 2026 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, George Erwin Mojica Garcia reaffirmed the poll body’s commitment to efficiency, transparency, and strict enforcement of election laws.

Swift and Careful Ballot Printing

Garcia assured the public that the printing of ballots will proceed without delay.

“Para sa printing ng mga balota para sa March 14 [Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election], kahit tomorrow puwede na nating simulan ’yan. At ’pag sinimulan ’yan bukas, kahit nga by Monday tapos lahat ng balotang gagamitin natin. And of course, ive-verify pa ’yan. Titingnan talaga ’yung mga balota kung maayos, malinis, may smudge, may guhit o dapat ba itong ulitin. Bibigyan natin ng isang buong linggo lang, limang araw lang, tapos na namin.”

The chairman emphasized that beyond speed, quality control remains a top priority. Each ballot will undergo strict verification to ensure accuracy and prevent technical issues on election day.

Strict Warning Against Premature Campaigning

Garcia also issued a firm reminder to candidates to observe election guidelines, particularly because the Antipolo special election will be conducted manually.

“Ang ating pakiusap sa mga tumatakbo, sana ma-observe po nila ang atin pong guidelines lalong-lalo na ito ay manual election, and therefore, bawal ang premature campaigning. Babantayan po namin ’yung mga namimigay d’yan lalo na sa panahon na bawal pang mangampanya, at ’wag na ’wag gagamit ng pera o pondo ng bayan para lamang i-promote ang kandidatura ng bawat isa. Hindi po kami magdadalawang-isip na mag-disqualify. Pinatunayan na po namin ’yan noong mga nakaraan.”

He stressed that COMELEC will not hesitate to disqualify violators, especially those misusing public funds or engaging in vote-buying activities.

Early Voting and Inclusive Elections

For the March 14 polls, COMELEC will once again implement its successful Early Voting Hours.

“Sa araw ng halalan sa Marso 14, 2026, amin pong muling ipatutupad ’yung napaka-successful na Early Voting Hours. Makakaboto po nang mas maaga ’yung mga nakatatanda, may kapansanan, mula 5AM–7AM. Exclusive para sa kanila lang pati na rin ang mga nagdadalang-tao.”

Garcia further underscored inclusivity by coordinating with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to ensure that qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who are registered voters can also cast their votes.

“Meron po kasi tayong mga kababayang nakakulong doon na rehistradong botante ng Ikalawang Distrito ng Antipolo City. At dahil diyan, bilang pakikipagkapwa-tao, pagpapakita na wala dapat maiwan kapag ang pag-uusapan ay halalan, sila rin pong lahat ay pabobotohin natin.”

Resumption of Voter Registration in Bangsamoro

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC will resume voter registration activities.

“Tayo po ay magre-resume na ng registration of voters sa na-suspend nating registration activity sa buong Bangsamoro ngayong darating na Ika-9 ng Pebrero hanggang March 30, 2026. Yan ay bilang resulta ng postponement ng eleksyon sa March 30 d’yan sa Bangsamoro.”

Garcia highlighted the availability of the Register Anywhere Program (RAP) in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns for voters from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao Norte, Maguindanao Sur, and the Special Geographic Area.

“Kung ikaw ay taga-Bangsamoro… puwede po kayong magparehistro na hindi mo na kinakailangang pumunta doon sa probinsya n’yo.”

He also reiterated COMELEC’s position that the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election must remain automated.

“Ang Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election ay ipinaglalaban ng COMELEC na at all cost, ito dapat ay automated election. Napakahirap po, sa amin pong pagtatantiya, ang isang manual na halalan sa Bangsamoro.”

Transparency and Fair Campaigning

In line with transparency, Garcia announced that the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven candidates for the Antipolo special election will be uploaded on COMELEC’s official website.

“Maaaring mailabas ng COMELEC sa aming website ang lahat ng Certificates of Candidacy ng pitong kandidato… ’Yan po ay commitment ng COMELEC na lagi nating ilalagay sa COMELEC website ang COC.”

He also appealed for discipline in campaign conduct and strict adherence to the Anti-Discrimination Resolution.

“Sana rin, ’yung ating mga kandidato… hindi naman tayo nakakaistorbo sa ating mga komunidad, lalo na ’yung paggamit ng mga trompa na pagkalakas-lakas o kaya naman ’yung pag-ikot natin na nakakaistorbo rin sa trapik.”

“Yung ating Anti-Discrimination Resolution, in effect po ’yan. Bawal natin atakihin ang ating mga kandidato below the belt… Pinatunayan na po namin. Ilan na po ’yung na-disqualify namin dahil lang sa violation ng Anti-Discrimination.”

With firm resolve, Chairman Garcia made it clear: COMELEC will uphold clean, orderly, inclusive, and credible elections,  ensuring that no voter is left behind and no violation goes unchecked.

Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates to uphold integrity of the election

In a comprehensive public statement, George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), highlighted the Commission’s readiness, integrity safeguards, and commitment to inclusive and credible elections.

Swift but Careful Ballot Printing

On the printing of ballots for the March 14 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, Chairman Garcia emphasized operational preparedness. He explained that ballot printing could begin immediately and be completed within days. However, speed would never compromise quality.

Every ballot, he assured, will undergo strict verification, checked thoroughly for clarity, cleanliness, smudges, misprints, or defects that would require reprinting. The Commission is prepared to complete the entire process within five working days, demonstrating both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His message was clear: preparedness must be matched by precision.

Zero Tolerance for Premature Campaigning

Chairman Garcia issued a strong reminder to candidates to strictly observe election guidelines, especially since the Antipolo election will be conducted manually. Premature campaigning, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

He warned that COMELEC will closely monitor violations, particularly the distribution of money or goods during prohibited periods. The Commission will not hesitate to disqualify candidates who break the rules,  a stance he noted has already been proven in past enforcement actions.

This firm posture reinforces COMELEC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

Early Voting and Inclusive Participation

On Election Day, March 14, 2026, COMELEC will reimplement its successful Early Voting Hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. These hours are exclusively reserved for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. The initiative reflects the Commission’s continuing effort to make elections more accessible and humane.

Chairman Garcia also confirmed coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow qualified detainees who are registered voters in Antipolo’s 2nd District to cast their votes. He stressed that no eligible Filipino should be left behind when it comes to the right to vote.

Bangsamoro Registration and Modernization Push

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC resumed voter registration from February 9 to March 30, 2026. Through the Register Anywhere Program (RAP), Bangsamoro residents from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area may register in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns without returning to their provinces.

Chairman Garcia strongly advocated for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election to be automated, explaining that conducting a fully manual election in the region would pose serious logistical and operational challenges.

Transparency and Respect in Campaigning

In line with its transparency commitment, COMELEC released online the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven Antipolo candidates, allowing voters to be properly informed about those seeking office.

Chairman Garcia also appealed for respectful campaigning, avoiding excessive noise, traffic disruption, and community disturbance. He reminded candidates that the Anti-Discrimination Resolution remains in effect. Personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, and below-the-belt tactics can lead to disqualification, as demonstrated in previous cases.

A Clear Standard for Elections

Through his message, Chairman Garcia projected a leadership style defined by preparedness, fairness, inclusivity, and strict enforcement of the law. His words serve not only as guidance to candidates but as reassurance to voters: elections will be conducted with order, transparency, and accountability.

For COMELEC under his leadership, democracy is not merely administered, it is actively safeguarded.