Grace Bondad Nicolas tete a tete with The Manila Times Town Hall Forum

Manila, Philippines—Prominent business leader Grace Bondad Nicolas, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Los Baños and CEO of Tag Media Group, attended The Manila Times Town Hall Forum on February 26, 2025, at The Manila Times headquarters in Intramuros.

The Town Hall Forum, a 10-episode series hosted by The Manila Times and DZRH, provides a platform for senatorial and local candidates in the May 2025 midterm elections to engage with stakeholders from various sectors. The event aims to educate voters and encourage informed decision-making by allowing participants to directly pose questions to the candidates.

At the 9 a.m. session on Labor, Nicolas, representing the business sector, joined other stakeholders in engaging with senatorial candidates Luke Espiritu, Sonny Matula, and Jerome Adonis, who were present to discuss their platforms and policies on labor rights, employment, and economic growth.

As a business leader and advocate for economic development, Nicolas’ participation underscored the importance of bridging the gap between the private sector and policymakers. Through her work at PCCI Los Baños and Tag Media Group, she continues to champion innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable business practices.

The Town Hall Forum was recorded and will be aired on March 9 across multiple platforms, including DZRH, The Manila Times, and its newly launched streaming channel, ensuring wider reach and public engagement.

With her continued involvement in business, media, and public discourse, Nicolas remains a vital voice in shaping policies that impact industries, labor, and economic progress in the Philippines.

Grace Bondad Nicolas: The Powerhouse Entrepreneur and Media Visionary

In the world of business, media, and public relations, few names stand out as boldly as Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas. A serial entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and industry leader, she has established herself as a driving force behind multiple successful ventures in construction, media, public relations, and cosmetics.

As the Co-Founder of TAG Media Group, which includes AG Builders & Developers, TAG Media and Public Relations, AAA Cosmetics & Trading, Hidden Hills Farm by Josefino, and Rising Tigers Magazine Inc., Grace has transformed industries through her innovative business strategies and leadership expertise.

A Leader in Business and Construction

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and a Master’s in Management, Major in Engineering Management from Colegio de San Juan de Letran, plus business studies at Ateneo and AIM, Grace has seamlessly combined technical knowledge with strategic business acumen.

Her company, Andrew Grace Builders & Developers, has been a key player in the construction industry since 2006, with signature projects under Landco, Vista Land, and Filinvest, as well as government-accredited projects with the University of the Philippines and the Forest Products & Research Institute.

Shaping the Media and Public Relations Landscape

Through TAG Media and Public Relations, founded in 2010, Grace has built one of the leading advertising and consultancy firms in the country. The firm has handled top multinational companies in Asia-Pacific, focusing on marketing, strategic planning, business intelligence, promotions, and branding.

Her mission? To position the Philippines as the premier business hub in Asia through high-impact signature events, including:

✔ Laguna Blogging Summit

✔ Asia Digital Marketing Expo

✔ Asia E-Commerce Expo

✔ Asia Leaders Forum Series

✔ Asia HR Expo

✔ Asia Leaders Awards

Because of her unparalleled expertise in event organization, she has earned the title “Queen of Events in the Philippines,” managing over 15 major events annually, even during the pandemic.

Rising Tigers and a Media Empire

Grace’s latest venture, Rising Tigers Magazine, TopNewsAsia, and InCharge Magazine, has revolutionized business and leadership publications in the Philippines. With nationwide distribution in National Bookstores and exclusive placements at Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Lounges, her magazines are among the most widely distributed in the country.

She recently launched Profiles of Excellence, a prestigious coffee table book, at National Bookstore, SM Megamall, on February 10, 2024, further solidifying her influence in the media and publishing industry.

A Passion for Civic Leadership

Beyond business, Grace is deeply involved in social and civic causes, holding key leadership roles in several prestigious organizations:

✔ Vice President of Makati Tourism Foundation

✔ First Woman President of the American Association of the Philippines

✔ President of PCCI-Los Baños

✔ Past Lieutenant Governor of Kiwanis Philippine Luzon District

✔ Member of the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce & Industry

✔ Member of the Philippine Korea Economic Council

Her commitment to nation-building and leadership development is evident in her extensive contributions to both the business and non-profit sectors.

A Trailblazer Recognized for Excellence

Grace’s extraordinary achievements have earned her numerous prestigious awards, including:

✔ American Association of the Philippines: Excellence Award in Communication & Fundraising

✔ Aliw Awards: Excellence Award (December 2023)

✔ Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry-Quezon City: Truth Award (January 2024)

✔ La Consolacion College Pasig: Leadership Award (February 2024)

✔ Forbes Best Dressed List: Style Icon and Filipina Business Leader (February 27, 2024)

✔ Aliw Awards: Excellence Award for Entrepreneurship 2024

The Legacy of Grace Bondad Nicolas

From engineering and construction to media, public relations, and publishing, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas has proven that versatility, passion, and leadership are key to long-term success. Whether through business, media influence, or philanthropy, she remains a true visionary shaping industries, empowering leaders, and making a lasting impact on the Philippines and beyond.

PCCI-QC holds 5th Quezon City Int'l Business Conference Feb 28, 2025

QUEZON CITY — The 5th Quezon City International Business Conference will be held on Friday day (Feb. 28) with the theme: “Building Tomorrow Together: Future Proofing Business, Driving Sustainable and Fostering Equitable Economy” at the M.I.C.E in Quezon City Hall Complex.
In a press conference, Dr. Carl Balita, Chairman Emeritus of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Quezon City (PCCI-QC) said that they are proud in staging the first International Business Conference in Quezon City.
The PCCIQC has been adjudged for being the Most Outstanding PCCI Chapter in the Philippines for two years in a row — 2023 and 2024.

The conference was a collaboration between the PCCI-QC and the Quezon City Local Government Unit (QC LGU). The event was intended to help small-scale businesses, also known as Nano enterprises. What was discussed?

The conference aimed to foster partnerships for a sustainable future. It also showcased the QC LGU's initiatives, including the Business Permit and Licensing Division, the Local Investments Promotions Office, and the Small Business Cooperative Development Promotions Office. 

The conference will gather together prime movers of business such as three DTI, DOST, and DICT, ambassadors of the embassies.
We are bringing business to Quezon City. We are bringing business to the world.
We are setting up an ideal ecosystem. We were present during the SOCA of Mayor Belmonte.
We want to resonate that here in QC there is an ecosystem

 

All businesses are are invited to register HERE 

Visit here  https://www.facebook.com/share/15sFWZ25dB/

TopNewsAsia’s inaugural with Comelec Chair George Erwin M. Garcia and Bureau of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio

TopNewsAsia-A weekly magazine under Tag Media Group, publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine and InCharge Magazine, has been launched last February 10, 2025, at the exclusive The Manila House Private Club in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig during the birthday of its publisher and editor-in-chief, Grace Bondad Nicolas with two of the leaders who are making an impact in the society today; Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chair George Erwin M. Garcia and Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio side by Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Writer Andria Terese Nicolas and Board Robert Laurel Yupangco and Consul David Ackerman holding the first print issue with Comelec Chair Garcia in the cover and with BOC news write up inside. 

The new weekly magazine will provide in-depth analysis, news, and opinion about local & international issues, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, technology, business, culture, and politics. Distributed already at National Book Stores nationwide. 

The writers are carefully invited to have balanced opinions on current events, which include former Senator Atty. Joey Lina, Former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Salvador Panelo, beauty entrepreneur Anna Magkawas, franchise guru Armando “Butz” Bartolome, entrepreneur Sarah Deloraya Mateo, lawyer Arnel Mateo, and Department of Justice Undersecretary Atty. Margarita Gutierrez and Cynthia Mamon of Enchanted Kingdom, among others. 

About the Editor-in-Chief 

Grace Bondad Nicolas was a former Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 4A Consultant and Writer with the designation of Regional Media Coordinator under the guidance of Regional Director Lito Cabotaje, supplying news in the Calabarzon area and in the National Beat. A columnist/writer, then for different regional newspapers and The Manila Times. 

TopNewsAsia’s mission is information dissemination to provide credible and trusted news and inspiration about what’s happening not just in the Philippines, but also in Asia or beyond, and people who shape and improve the world for the next generation to emulate and as guidance.

Odyssey of Grace Bondad Nicolas to TopNewsAsia

In the bustling world of journalism and media, where every story counts and every voice has the potential to inspire, one narrative stands out for its sheer determination, passion, and commitment to integrity. It's the story of a dream that began in the heart of a young girl, who found her calling amidst the vibrant chaos of newsrooms and the disciplined halls of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 4A (Calabarzon). Under the mentorship of Regional Director Lito Cabotaje, this aspiring journalist learned the ropes of the trade with a focus on integrity and professionalism. This foundation laid the groundwork for what would become a remarkable career in media and public relations.

Grace Bondad Nicolas passion in writing became her profession while juggling other businesses with her family. 

Transitioning from a consultant and regional media coordinator to taking bold steps into the national spotlight, the editor embarked on a journey that led her through challenging exams and pivotal interviews at The Manila Times under then CEO Dante Klink Ang II. These experiences not only honed her skills but also affirmed her lifelong dream of making an impact through journalism.

In 2010, amidst evolving digital landscapes and changing reader habits, she established Tag Media and Public Relations. Yet, it was during the unprecedented global pandemic of 2021 that she launched her first magazine, turning adversity into opportunity. This magazine was not just any publication; it was a platform for sharing stories of resilience, leadership, and success from various leaders who had made significant impacts in their fields.

The culmination of this journey is TopNewsAsia, launched under Tag Media Group alongside Rising Tigers Magazine and InCharge Magazine. TopNewsAsia is not merely another addition to the plethora of publications out there; it is a testament to a dreamer's vision becoming reality. It aims to be a beacon for those seeking in-depth analysis, news, opinions on local and international issues, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, technology, business, culture, and politics.

“As we look forward to 2025 with anticipation for what TopNewsAsia will achieve as a weekly news magazine, it's clear that this venture is more than just spreading wings; it's about taking significant risks in an ever-changing media landscape. With celebrated contributors ready to share their insights and a distribution network spanning national bookstores, airport lounges, hotels, and other establishments, TopNewsAsia is poised to inspire not just a nation but readers globally.”- Grace Bondad Nicolas 

“Our team may be new to some readers, but rest assured, we are seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering news at its finest. We are experts committed to excellence in journalism and passionate about making every story count.”- Grace Bondad Nicolas 

For every girl who dreams big and for every reader seeking stories that matter—welcome to TopNewsAsia. Here's to new beginnings, relentless pursuit of dreams, and making an indelible mark on the world of journalism.

TopNewsAsia’s maiden issue with Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia

Commission on Elections Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia is the featured cover leader in the premier issue of TopNewsAsia that has been launched last February 11 at National Book Stores nationwide. 

When asked about his task and position in one of the most important agencies in the Philippines. 

 

“It's a very difficult position. I came from the private sector. I used to be an election lawyer practitioner for the last 23 years, focusing mainly on election lawyering and I did not really anticipate that the job of being the chairman of the commission is completely different from being a lawyer of the different candidates or different elective and appointive officials. Of course, you have to manage of almost 7,000 people nationwide. You have to manage the election every now and then at the same day you have plebiscites, you have special elections, you have electoral exercises that are not necessarily regular in character.

So again, it's not an easy job.”- Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia of Commission on Elections 

Centered around the Commission's daily operations and the preparations for electoral exercises, Chairman Garcia’s schedule is meticulously orchestrated. Weekly En Banc meetings are vital, where his fellow Commissioners and him address administrative matters and broader policy-making decisions. In addition to these, he frequently attend Senate and Congressional hearings. These venues are pivotal, as they enable the Commission  to actively engage in the legislative and policy-making processes, influencing the electoral landscape of the nation.

TopNewsAsia-A weekly magazine under Tag Media Group, publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine and InCharge Magazine has been launched last February 10, 2025 (before it’s inaugural selling at National Book Stores the next day) at the exclusive The Manila House Private Club in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig during the birthday of it’s publisher and editor in chief, Grace Bondad Nicolas with two of the leaders who are making an impact in the society today; Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio side by side by Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Writer Andria Terese Nicolas and Board Robert Laurel Yupangco and Consul David Ackerman holding the first print issue with Comelec Chairman Garcia in the cover and with BOC news write up inside. 

The new weekly magazine provides in-depth analysis, news and opinion about local &  international issues, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, technology, business, culture and politics. Distributed already at National Book Stores nationwide. 

The writers are carefully invited to have balance opinion to current events that includes Former Senator Atty. Joey Lina, Former Presidential Sporkesperson Atty. Salvador Panelo, Beauty entrepreneur Anna Magkawas, Franchise Guru Armando “Butz” Bartolome, Entrepreneur Sarah Deloraya Mateo, Lawyer Arnel Mateo, Department of Justice Undersecretary Atty. Margarita Gutierrez and Cynthia Mamon of Enchanted Kingdom among others. 

About the Editor-in-chief 

Grace Bondad Nicolas was a former Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 4A Consultant and Writer with the Designation of Regional Media Coordinator under the guidance of Regional Director Lito Cabotaje supplying news in Calabarzon area and in National Beat. A columnist / writer then to different regional newspapers and at The Manila Times. 

TopNewsAsia’s mission is information dissemination to provide credible and trusted news and inspirations on what’s happening not just in the philippines but also in Asia or beyond and people who shape and improve the world for the next generation to emulate and as guidance.

TopNewsAsia catapult on the natal day of Grace Bondad Nicholas

TopNewsAsia-A weekly magazine under Tag Media Group, publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine and InCharge Magazine, has been launched last February 10, 2025, at the exclusive The Manila House Private Club in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig during the birthday of its publisher and editor-in-chief, Grace Bondad Nicolas with two of the leaders who are making an impact in the society today; Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chair George Erwin M. Garcia and Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio side by Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Writer Andria Terese Nicolas and Board Robert Laurel Yupangco and Consul David Ackerman holding the first print issue with Comelec Chair Garcia in the cover and with BOC news write up inside. 

The new weekly magazine will provide in-depth analysis, news, and opinion about local & international issues, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, technology, business, culture, and politics. Distributed already at National Book Stores nationwide. 

The writers are carefully invited to have balanced opinions on current events, which include former Senator Atty. Joey Lina, Former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Salvador Panelo, beauty entrepreneur Anna Magkawas, franchise guru Armando “Butz” Bartolome, entrepreneur Sarah Deloraya Mateo, lawyer Arnel Mateo, and Department of Justice Undersecretary Atty. Margarita Gutierrez and Cynthia Mamon of Enchanted Kingdom, among others. 

About the Editor-in-Chief 

Grace Bondad Nicolas was a former Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 4A Consultant and Writer with the designation of Regional Media Coordinator under the guidance of Regional Director Lito Cabotaje, supplying news in the Calabarzon area and in the National Beat. A columnist/writer, then for different regional newspapers and The Manila Times. 

TopNewsAsia’s mission is information dissemination to provide credible and trusted news and inspiration about what’s happening not just in the Philippines, but also in Asia or beyond, and people who shape and improve the world for the next generation to emulate and as guidance.

Viola! Rising Tigers Magazine, InCharge Magazine, and TopNewsAsia’s Top 50 Influential People in the Philippines

The organizers carefully selected the most influential in the Philippines right now. They are from different industries but share the same characteristics: determined, a leader, and making an impact in society today.

When we say influential, they are effective in what they do, with great influence on a lot of people, a person whose actions and opinions strongly influence the course of events. We also invited those from different industries who are shaping the nation today.

Last February 10, 2025, at the exclusive Manila House in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, 50 of the influential leaders in the Society today have been presented and are as follows in no particular order: 

Comelec George Erwin M. Garcia 

BOC Bienvenido Y. Rubio 

First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos

BIR Romeo Lumagui Jr.

Atty. Nilo Divina of Divina Law 

Anna Magkawas of Luxe Health & Wellness 

Pia Yanson 

Tim Yap 

Dr. George Sarakinis 

Vivian Caramba & Bernie Caramba 

Michelle Dee 

Jing Monis of Jing Monis Salon 

Carla Guevarra Laforteza 

Tessa Prieto 

Charisse Tiñio of Nice Print Photo

Iza Calzado 

Armando “Butz” Bartolome 

Chynna Mamawal

Marvin Agustin

Blanca Calilung Mercado of The Manila Times

Atty. Hazel Reguera 

Cynthia Romero Mamon of Enchanted Kingdom

Caesar Vallejos of Net25

John Calub 

George Barcelon 

Glenda Dela Cruz of Brilliant Skin 

Rosanna Ocampo 

Brian Poe Llamanzares 

DOJ Usec. Margarita Gutierrez

Leo Po of Century Food 

Saturnino "Chef N" Rovillos of Illos Catering 

Kaye Tinga

Anton San Diego of Tatler 

Cong. Christopher De Venecia

Fred Yuson

Dr. Aivee Aguilar Teo of Aivee Clinic 

Dr. Z'Shen Teo

Arch. Juan Carlo Calma

Steven Tan of SM Supermalls 

Royce Gerik Chua of Eng Bee Tin 

Juan Carlo “Keso” Jose 

Kenneth Cobonpue 

Sofia Andres 

Lulu Tan Gan 

Kevin Tan of Megaworld 

Warren Sy of Dyson 

Congresswoman Margarita Nograles

Chef Chele Gonzales

Cory Quirino

Categories: Entrepreneurship & Leadership, Philanthropy & Fashion, 

Arts, Fashion, Culture, Motivational, Photography & Entertainment, Media, Public Service & Leadership, and Food, Beverages & Innovation

In attendance also was the Tag Media Group board that includes Robert Laurel Yupangco, Consul David Ackerman, Dr. Elton See Tan, Tanyu III, Andrew Troy Nicolas, Atty. Arnel Mateo, Sarah Mateo, and Becky Garcia. Presenters include Andria Terese Nicolas and His Excellency Israel Ambassador Illan Fluss.

The 3rd print magazine of Tag Media Group, TopNewsAsia, has also been launched, with Comelec Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia on the cover with the presentation of the editorial team headed by former Regional Media Coordinator and Writer under the Philippine Information Agency and now publisher and editor-in-chief, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.

TopNewsAsia is a weekly magazine under Tag Media Group, publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine and InCharge Magazine. It provides in-depth analysis, news, and opinion about local & international issues, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, technology, business, culture, and politics. Distributed already at National Book Stores nationwide.

The Top 50 Influential People in the Philippines presentation from the organizers started on March 22, 2022, at the Grand Hyatt Manila at the BGC in Taguig, highlighting the leaders of this generation. Its main objective is to promote the Philippines as a premier business hub and destination in Asia through the stories, success, and influence of these leaders.

Chair George Erwin M. Garcia meticulously setting a mark in COMELEC By Grace Bondad Nicolas

As the Philippines gears up for what Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia describes as a "super election year" in 2025, the nation stands on the cusp of a democratic exercise that is both monumental and challenging. With three elections slated for next year—two in May and the Barangay and SK (Sangguniang Kabataan) elections five months later—the COMELEC is navigating through preparations for both automated and manual voting processes, underscoring the complexity and diversity of the electoral system in the country.

Chairman Garcia, with a rich background as an election lawyer before his appointment first as commissioner by President Rodrigo Duterte and then as chairman by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., brings to the table a unique perspective shaped by years of legal practice and a deep commitment to upholding electoral integrity. His transition from private practice to leading COMELEC has been marked by challenges, not least of which include managing a vast workforce and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections amidst technological advancements and social media's growing influence.

In an exclusive interview, Chairman Garcia shared insights into COMELEC's preparations for the upcoming elections, emphasizing the goal of delivering credible, honest, peaceful, and acceptable outcomes. The task is daunting but critical for sustaining democracy in the Philippines. As Garcia puts it, "We have to maintain that kind of integrity of the election so that the people will keep believing in our democracy."

One of the significant challenges Garcia highlights is the regulation of social media campaigns. In an age where digital platforms play a crucial role in shaping political narratives, COMELEC aims to introduce guidelines that ensure fairness and prevent misuse while navigating legal and ethical considerations around free speech. This initiative reflects Garcia's proactive approach to addressing emerging threats to electoral integrity.

Despite facing discrediting attacks and personal challenges, Garcia remains steadfast in his commitment to his duties, choosing to focus on his responsibilities rather than engaging with detractors. His philosophy is rooted in transparency, integrity, and truthfulness—qualities he believes are essential for anyone serving in government.

Looking ahead, Chairman Garcia envisions leaving behind a legacy where public trust in COMELEC and the electoral process is strengthened. He advocates for inclusivity and transparency, aiming to ensure that every Filipino's voice is heard through their vote. "A vote not cast is a voice not heard," he asserts, encapsulating his belief in the power of participatory democracy.

As 2025 approaches, Chairman George Erwin Garcia stands at the helm of an institution tasked with safeguarding one of the pillars of Philippine democracy: free and fair elections. His leadership comes at a critical time when technology's role in politics is ever-evolving, posing both opportunities and challenges. Under his guidance, COMELEC seeks not only to navigate these waters but also to enhance public confidence in electoral processes—a mission vital for maintaining democracy's vibrancy in the Philippines.

In reflecting on democracy's state in the country today, Garcia confidently affirms its strength, buoyed by regular elections and active citizen engagement. His optimism serves as a reminder of democracy's resilience—a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino people and their commitment to democratic values.

As COMELEC prepares for one of its busiest years yet, Chairman George Erwin Garcia's vision for an inclusive, transparent, and credible electoral process sets a hopeful tone for what lies ahead. In doing so, he underscores democracy's fundamental principle: one Filipino, one ballot—where every vote counts equally toward shaping the nation's future.