Secretary Henry Aguda DICT and Dr Gay Jane Perez at kapihan sa Manila Bay

 

March 25, 2026 - Kapihan sa Manila Bay,  on it's continuing celebration of their 11th Anniversary welcomed two esteemed guests today: Secretary Henry Aguda of the Department of Information and Communications Technology and Philippine Space Agency (PHILSA) General Director Dr. Gay Jane Perez.

The discussion revolved around the country's current cybersecurity infrastructure and space exploration initiatives. Sec. Aguda shared updates on ongoing projects in strengthening the capacity to provide free internet in different areas of the Philippines. On the other hand Dr.Gay Jane  Perez talked about PHILSA's plans for satellite launches and space technology advancements.

When asked about the impact of these projects on the economy, Sec. Aguda replied, "These initiatives are expected to boost economic growth, improve connectivity, and create new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike."

Dr. Perez added, "Our space program aims to enhance national security, improve disaster risk management, and promote sustainable development through the use of space technology."

The presscon also touched on the importance of collaboration between government agencies  in driving progress and innovation.

The episode ended with a call to action, encouraging viewers to stay informed and engaged on these critical issues shaping the country's future 🚀

#kapihanSaManilaBay #MarichuVillanueva

#DrGayJanePerez #SecHenryAguda

BEYOND PROTOCOL: Leading Women Magazine Launches New Global Conversation Series

In celebration of Women’s Month, Leading Women Magazine proudly introduces Beyond Protocol, its newest online show hosted by Irene Wicklein, streaming on YouTube once a month every Saturday. The teaser will officially launch on March 26 during the Women’s Month celebration organized by Leading Women Magazine at Okada Manila.

Headed by CEO and Editor-in-Chief Grace Bondad Nicolas, Leading Women Magazine continues to expand its platform in recognizing women whose stories create meaningful impact across cultures and communities. Beyond Protocol reflects the publication’s commitment to highlight inspiring voices from different parts of the world, particularly women within the diplomatic community whose journeys often remain beyond public view.

Hosted by Irene Wicklein, who has spent many years living in various countries as the spouse of a head of mission, the show offers an insightful and personal look into the lives of diplomatic spouses. Drawing from her own experiences within international environments, Wicklein creates a space for authentic conversations that explore identity, cultural understanding, and the realities of building a life across borders.

Beyond Protocol features relaxed and engaging discussions that move beyond official titles, receptions, and formal roles. Each episode presents personal narratives of women whose experiences are shaped by global exposure, diverse traditions, and unique perspectives. Through storytelling, the show highlights how diplomacy is not only practiced in policy discussions but also through everyday human connections that foster mutual respect and international understanding.

The first interview will premiere live on YouTube on March 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM, offering audiences an opportunity to experience meaningful conversations that celebrate diversity, resilience, and shared values. The program emphasizes that behind every diplomatic title is a personal journey filled with challenges, growth, and inspiration.

Under the leadership of Grace Bondad Nicolas, Leading Women Magazine continues to champion initiatives that amplify women’s voices and promote global dialogue. Beyond Protocol strengthens this vision by bringing forward stories that inspire, educate, and connect audiences across cultures.

As the show begins its monthly Saturday schedule on YouTube, viewers can look forward to thoughtful conversations that reveal the human side of diplomacy and celebrate the women shaping international communities in their own meaningful ways.

Beyond Protocol — Their lives. Their stories. Conversations that connect cultures.

Teaser Launch: March 26, 2026 at Okada Manila

First Interview Live on YouTube: March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM

Streaming once a month every Saturday under Leading Women Magazine.

A Celebration of Leading Women 2026

In this generation where leadership continues to evolve, Leading Women Magazine once again takes center stage in honoring women who are reshaping narratives, breaking barriers, and leading with both power and purpose.

Headed by its Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Grace Bondad Nicolas, the Leading Women 2026 celebration proudly recognizes outstanding women whose leadership, excellence, and meaningful contributions have created lasting impact across industries and communities. These women exemplify vision, resilience, and influence, empowering others while helping build a more inclusive and progressive future.

This year’s event is graced by keynote speaker, former senator Grace Poe, a steadfast advocate for women’s empowerment and inclusive governance. Her presence underscores the importance of amplifying women’s voices and strengthening their role in nation-building.

Adding to the significance of the celebration are remarkable women from the diplomatic community, as well as leaders in business and advocacy, each bringing their unique stories of courage, innovation, and service. Their collective presence reflects a powerful network of women united by purpose and driven to inspire change.

In a statement, Grace Bondad Nicolas shared the deeper intention behind this year’s gathering:

“Before we end this International Women’s Month of March, me and my team under Leading Women Magazine will celebrate ‘Women’ in our network. We invited exclusively our previous honorees, existing partners, and network to celebrate Women’s Month. We will also launch our newest online show that will surely capture everyone’s curiosity with the Women of the World.”

The much-anticipated awarding ceremony will be held on March 26, 2025, at the elegant Okada Manila, specifically at the Chairman’s Lounge. The evening promises to gather distinguished women leaders, partners, and honored guests in a meaningful celebration of achievement, connection, and shared purpose.

More than just an awards night, Leading Women 2026 stands as a movement, one that continues to elevate women who lead with intention, inspire through action, and redefine what it means to hold power in today’s world.

#LeadingWomen

WORLDBEX 2026: Building the Future of the

From March 11–13, 2026, the construction and design industry once again gathered for one of the country’s biggest building and architecture events — Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (WORLDBEX).

Held across two major venues, World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila, the expo brought together leading architects, engineers, developers, suppliers, and design enthusiasts eager to discover the latest innovations shaping the built environment.

WORLDBEX has long been recognized as a premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge construction technologies, sustainable building solutions, and modern architectural designs. This year’s event continued that tradition with hundreds of exhibitors presenting products ranging from advanced construction materials and smart home systems to interior design solutions and architectural services

.

Visitors explored expansive exhibit halls filled with interactive displays, live demonstrations, and product launches. Industry professionals also attended technical seminars and discussions that highlighted emerging trends such as green architecture, resilient infrastructure, and the integration of smart technologies in modern construction.

More than just an exhibition, WORLDBEX served as a hub for collaboration and inspiration. Developers met potential partners, suppliers connected with new markets, and aspiring designers gained valuable insights from leaders in the field.

For attendees and industry stakeholders alike, WORLDBEX 2026 reaffirmed its role as a driving force in shaping the future of Philippine construction and design. As the country continues to grow and innovate, events like WORLDBEX remind us that the foundations of progress are built through creativity, collaboration, and vision.

Stay tuned to The Social SCENE PH for more highlights from the country’s most exciting expos, conventions, and industry events.

#worlbex2026

#worldtradecentermanila

#smxmoa

Rep. Mikee Romero in the March issue of the Rising Tigers Magazine

 

An inspiring afternoon unfolded at the National Book Store as business leaders, media practitioners, and readers gathered for the launch of Rising Tigers Magazine, featuring prominent public servant and entrepreneur Mikee Romero.

Held at the SM Mall of Asia branch, the event drew attention from both the business and political communities, highlighting Romero’s journey as a successful entrepreneur, sports patron, and legislator. The feature in Rising Tigers Magazine places the spotlight on leaders who exemplify resilience, innovation, and impact—qualities that Romero himself has demonstrated throughout his career.

A Leader in Business and Public Service

During the interview, Congressman Romero spoke about the intersection of business leadership and public service. Known as the founder of Globalport 900 Inc. and a representative of 1-Pacman Partylist in Congress, Romero emphasized the importance of discipline, innovation, and service.

He shared that his experiences in business have shaped his approach to governance—focusing on efficiency, strategic thinking, and delivering tangible results for the Filipino people.

Romero also reflected on the responsibility that comes with leadership. “Success should always translate into service,” he noted, underscoring his commitment to initiatives that support economic growth, sports development, and opportunities for young Filipinos.

Rising Tigers Magazine aims to celebrate leaders who are shaping industries and communities in the Philippines. By featuring Romero on its pages, the publication highlights the kind of leadership that blends entrepreneurial drive with a sense of national responsibility.

The magazine’s concept of “Rising Tigers” refers to individuals whose vision and determination contribute to the country’s progress—professionals and innovators who embody the spirit of modern Filipino leadership.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For the audience present at the launch, Romero’s story resonated as one of perseverance and purpose. Beyond his accomplishments in business and politics, he encouraged young Filipinos to pursue their goals with discipline and integrity.

Events such as this not only celebrate achievements but also inspire dialogue about leadership, nation-building, and the role of entrepreneurship in shaping the country’s future.

As the afternoon concluded, guests had the opportunity to interact with Congressman Romero and explore the newly launched issue of Rising Tigers Magazine, leaving with renewed inspiration from a leader who continues to bridge the worlds of business and public service.

#risingtigersmagazine

#michaelmikeeromero

Billionaire Philanthropist Mikee Romero Meets Readers at Rising Tigers Magazine Signing

Pasay City, Philippines — Readers and supporters of inspiring leadership will gather for a special magazine signing event featuring billionaire, philanthropist, and sportsman Mikee Romero, who graces the March cover of Rising Tigers Magazine.

The event will take place on March 12, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at National Book Store inside SM Mall of Asia.

Organized by Rising Tigers Magazine, the gathering offers readers a rare opportunity to personally meet the distinguished leader featured in the publication. The magazine signing will be led by Andrew Troy Nicolas, chairman of Tag Media Group, who continues to champion stories of leadership, governance, and community service through the organization’s media platforms.

Romero has been named “Man of the Year” by Rising Tigers Magazine, recognizing a lifetime of national impact defined by vision, execution, and service that reaches every corner of the Philippines—across business, public service, sports, military leadership, and humanitarian action.

He is recognized for repeatedly turning ideas into vision—and vision into action—building multimillion-dollar companies from the ground up and transforming them into industry-leading enterprises in port terminals across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, as well as in logistics, aviation, real estate, power generation, and renewable energy. These ventures have strengthened national connectivity, trade, job creation, and energy security. His entrepreneurial excellence was affirmed early when, at age 40, he became the youngest Filipino included in the 2013 Forbes Philippines 50 Richest list.

In public service, Romero stands out as one of the most productive lawmakers in Philippine history. As a three-term congressman and former Senior Deputy Speaker, he authored and co-authored more than 1,200 bills, with 148 enacted into Republic Acts during his tenure. These include landmark legislation such as Free College Tuition, Universal Healthcare, the Mental Health Act, the Eddie Garcia Law, and the strengthening of the 4Ps program, reshaping education, healthcare, and social protection for millions of Filipinos.

His national influence also extends strongly into sports development. Romero has played a key role in elevating and professionalizing national sports federations, strengthening governance, improving athlete support systems, and helping Filipino athletes compete successfully on the international stage—contributing to national pride and the long-term development of sports institutions.

Beyond enterprise, policy, and sports, his leadership is deeply anchored in humanitarian service. As a Full Colonel in the Philippine Air Force Reserve, he contributed to efforts supporting the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including initiatives that helped enable the acquisition of three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, vital for defense, disaster response, and humanitarian missions.

Romero has also led and supported relief operations during typhoons and floods in Central Luzon and earthquakes in Cebu and Davao. His humanitarian missions have reached some of the country’s most remote communities—from Mavulis and Itbayat in the north, Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea, to Mapun and Taganak in the far south, and even the mountainous areas of North Cotabato. He has also spent Christmas with Aeta communities in Pampanga and Zambales, bringing food, clothing, toys, and hope to indigenous families.

The Rising Tigers Magazine “Man of the Year” recognition honors Romero not for a single achievement, but for a sustained record of building industries, passing transformative legislation, elevating sports, strengthening national defense, and serving the most vulnerable—measured by lives touched, communities reached, and a nation strengthened.

During the event, guests will also have the opportunity to interact with Romero alongside special guests from the Capital1 Solar Spikers.

“We’re the only publication that can hold magazine signing events at National Book Stores nationwide, and it has become a meaningful platform for our leaders to connect with readers. We’re grateful to National Book Store for this partnership,” said Grace Bondad Nicolas (EIC and CEO of Rising Tigers Magazine) 

Supporters, readers, and members of the public are expected to attend and take part in an engaging afternoon of dialogue, inspiration, and an exclusive magazine signing experience.

Event Details:

Date: March 12, 2026

Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Venue: National Book Store

For media inquiries and event details, interested parties may contact the organizers of Rising Tigers Magazine at +63 977 897 8877 or president@rising-tigers.asia

#michaelmikeeromero

#risingtigersmagazine

#nationalbookdstore

#Tagmediagroup

Kapihan Sa Manila Bay 11th Anniversary

 

Senate President Vicente Sotto III was the guest speaker on the 11th Anniversary of Kapihan Sa Manila Bay March 11, 2026. S P  discussed the need for stronger safeguards against fake news at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum at Cafe Adriatico. He emphasized that while press freedom and free expression are important, there must be accountability for spreading false information. Sotto is pushing for provisions that mandate the immediate removal of fake news from online platforms, citing the current cyberlibel law's lack of takedown provisions.

 Senate President Vicente Sotto III  addressed members of the media and discussed pressing national and international issues. 

The forum, hosted by veteran journalist Marichu Villanueva, gathered reporters, commentators, and invited guests for a lively exchange with the Senate leader as part of the program’s continuing series of policy discussions with key national figures.

During the question-and-answer session, Sotto shared his views on current geopolitical developments, including tensions in the Middle East, and their possible implications for global stability and the Philippines. The Senate President emphasized the importance of diplomacy, cooperation among nations, and careful monitoring of developments that could affect Filipino workers and overseas communities.

Sotto also touched on domestic governance and legislative priorities, highlighting the role of the Senate in maintaining transparency, independence, and accountability in government. He reiterated the importance of informed public discourse and constructive dialogue between policymakers and the media.

The Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum has long served as an informal yet influential venue where government officials engage directly with journalists on national issues. The March 11 gathering also marked a milestone for the program as it celebrated its 11th anniversary, continuing its tradition of fostering open discussions on matters of public interest. 

Held at Café Adriatico in Manila’s historic Malate district, the event provided a platform for candid exchanges between the Senate leader and the press, reflecting the enduring role of media forums in shaping public awareness and policy conversations.