Press Conference Phil Power and Energy Expo & Phil Construction and Ceramics Expo

 

The press conference of Philippine Power and Energy Exposition together with The Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo at Smx Convention Centre, Manila Philippines on July  25, 2025. It is an International exhibition for Building, Construction, Ceramics Machinery, Power, Energy, Solar and EV Sector which will take place on July 29 to 31, 2025 at Smx Moa.

The welcome address was delivered by Mr. Johnny Chotrani,

 Co-Chairman (Philippines), ASEAN India Economic Council and Member, Advisory Board, Philippine Solar Power and Construction Expo. Who acted as the moderator of the programme.

The panelists includes:

Ms. Maria Teresa "Tetchi" Cruz Capellan, Chairperson of the Steering Committee, Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association and Chairperson, Philippines Solar and Storage Energy Alliance and President and CEO, SUNASIA ENERGY INC.

 Architech Felino "Jun" Palafox Jr., Palafox and  Associates. A renowned and well respected in his chosen field world wide.

Mr. Carmelo Jimson Uranza, Society of Philippine Electrotechnical Constructors and Suppliers

Dr. Luis Ramon V.  Rodriguez, MD, MDM, President, Karl Group Holding Corp and Philippine Medical Depot and Member, Advisory Board, Philippine Solar Power and Construction Expo.

Architech Palafox answered a question raised by one of the media present. Is there a solution for the flooding  in Metro Manila? And sad to say his response was that Architect in fact was helping our government since he was 25 years old but no government officials would take the proposal for flood free Manila.

The event will showcase an array of construction, interior products, power, and energy, bringing together leading stakeholders and service providers in the industry.

The Philippines is enhancing our green environment. Solar energy  aiming for 35% renewable energy by 2030 and 50% by 2040. With a goal of  doubling solar output by 2030 and achieve a 3.5 GW solar installation by 2026.

About 110 plus exhibitors wll join the exposition and expecting 3,000 plus attendee's for a successful turn of event 2025.

Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo 2025 plus Solar and Power Expo

 

The Philippines is fast emerging as one of the most dynamic and promising solar energy markets globally. Under the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) 2020–2040, the government has set ambitious targets—aiming to generate 35% of energy from renewables by 2030, and 50% by 2040. As part of this commitment, the country plans to double its solar output by 2030 and host the world’s largest solar installation by early 2026, featuring 3.5 GW of solar capacity and 4 GWh of battery storage.

In alignment with these goals, the Philippine Solar, Power and Energy Expo will serve as a vital platform for stakeholders across the energy ecosystem—including manufacturers, exporters, distributors, importers, contractors, engineers, and new entrants—to explore collaboration and investment opportunities. The expo expects over 110 exhibitors from India, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Egypt, and other countries, with more than 3,000 professional visitors anticipated from across the ASEAN region.

Building the Future: Construction and Ceramics Expo

The Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo, running concurrently from July 29–31, 2025, is the country’s premier exhibition focused on construction, ceramic, interior, and building materials. It will bring together key players from the construction, housing, infrastructure, and ceramic sectors, offering unmatched opportunities for networking and business development. This event is poised to become a strategic gateway to the Southeast Asian business community and contribute significantly to infrastructure growth in the Philippines and the region.

Distinguished Speakers at the Press Conference:

• Mr. Johnny Chotrani – Co-Chairman (Philippines), ASEAN India Economic Council; Member, Advisory Board, Philippine Solar Power and Construction Expo

• Ms. Maria Theresa “Tetchi” Cruz Capellan – Chairperson, Steering Committee, Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association; Chairperson, Philippines Solar and Storage Energy Alliance; President & CEO, SunAsia Energy Inc.

• Engr. Warren Maralit – President, Power Professionals Association of the Philippines (PPAP)

• Mr. Carmelo Jimson B. Uranza – President, Society of Philippine Electrotechnical Constructors and Suppliers (SPECS)

• Arch. Felino “Jun” Albano Palafox, Jr. – Architect & Urban Planner; Founder, Palafox Associates

• Dr. Luis Ramon V. Rodriguez, MD, MDM – President, Karl Group Holding Corp and Philippine Medical Depot; Member, Advisory Board, Philippine Solar Power and Construction Expo

• Engr. Rene Fajilagutan – Member, Board of Directors, PHILRECA

•••

Genesis Global Exhibitions and ACE Group, with the support of the ASEAN India Economic Council, Philippine India Business Council, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is pleased to announce the upcoming Philippine Solar, Power and Energy Expo, co-located with the Philippine Construction and Ceramics Expo, scheduled to take place from July 29–31, 2025, at Function Room 5, SMX Convention Centre, Manila, Philippines.

These exhibitions are proudly supported by the Philippines Solar and Storage Energy Alliance (PSSEA), Society of Philippine Electrotechnical Constructors and Suppliers (SPECS), PHILRECA, Power Professionals Association of the Philippines (PPAP), among others, with additional associations expected to join.

*Register here for free admission, see you!

The Manila Tech Summit 2025: Forging a New Global Order

 

The Fintech Alliance PH presents The Manila Tech Summit 2025 with Theme : Forging a New Global Order 

This summit isn’t just about discussing the problems—it’s about exploring actionable solutions, strategic investments, and forward-thinking strategies to not only survive, but thrive in this complex, ever-evolving landscape. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation about some of the most urgent and relevant issues shaping our world today:

Geopolitical Fragmentation: Rising nationalism and multipolar power struggles threaten cooperation on critical issues such as global security, trade, and environmental sustainability.

Technological Disruption: AI, quantum computing, and digital currency can empower innovation but also amplify inequality, cyber threats, and loss of privacy.

Climate Crisis: The escalating impacts of climate change risk deepening resource conflicts and economic instability, especially for vulnerable nations

Philippines to Host 36th International Biology Olympiad at Ateneo de Manila University

 

Quezon City, Philippines — The Philippines is proud to welcome the world’s brightest young biologists to the 36th International Biology Olympiad (IBO 2025), to be held from July 20 to 27, 2025, at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City.

Organized by the Philippine Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) in partnership with Ateneo de Manila University, this prestigious global competition will gather top secondary school biology students from over 78 countries for a week-long showcase of scientific excellence, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

Event Highlights

Opening Ceremony: Sunday, July 20, 2025

Practical Exams: Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Theoretical Exams: Thursday, July 24, 2025

Closing & Awards Ceremony: Sunday, July 27, 2025

The competition will test participants on a wide range of topics, including molecular biology, genetics, anatomy, ecology, and biosystematics, through both rigorous theoretical and hands-on laboratory exams. The top-performing students will be awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, recognizing their mastery and innovative thinking in the field of biology.

"We are deeply honored to host IBO 2025," said Dr. Josette Biyo, Director of DOST-SEI. "This is not only a celebration of scientific talent but also a unique opportunity to promote international friendship and the importance of biological sciences in addressing global challenges."

This marks a significant moment for the Philippines as it strengthens its role in the global science education community. Ateneo de Manila University, a premier institution known for its commitment to research and innovation, will serve as an ideal venue for the week’s academic and cultural activities.

For more information, visit  here www.ibo2025.org.

#BiboSaIBO

#IBO2025PH

#todayph25

#NMAP2025

RCBC is Euromoney's Six-Time 'Best Bank for Digital'

 

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) continues to break boundaries in digital banking, earning the prestigious “Best Bank for Digital” award from Euromoney for 2025. This marks an unprecedented sixth consecutive win, making RCBC the first bank in Asia to achieve such a feat and cementing its position as a regional trailblazer in inclusive digital finance.

The announcement was made by Euromoney, recognizing RCBC’s pioneering digital innovations, customer-first approach, and strong push for inclusive financial ecosystems in an increasingly competitive fintech landscape.

“This accomplishment is a testament to RCBC’s commitment to being a digitally driven and customer-obsessed bank. We will continue to provide cutting-edge banking solutions, keeping CX at the heart of our strategy,” said RCBC president and CEO Reginaldo Anthony B. Cariaso. “We will deliver impactful solutions that are accessible, intuitive, and secure.”

RCBC’s sixth win comes on the heels of transformative initiatives across its digital platforms. RCBC Pulz—the first privately owned digital banking app in the Philippines to allow account opening using an international mobile number—was scaled up through partnerships with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas.

These tie-ups extend digital finance to Overseas Filipino Workers and immigrants, strengthening financial ties with the homeland. Pulz also boasts the most AI-enabled features in the market, making it the most intelligent banking platform in the country today.

DiskarTech, the world’s first multilingual financial inclusion super app, caters to underserved and unbanked Filipinos—particularly micro and small entrepreneurs. It provides easy access to microloans, savings, insurance, and telemedicine services.

DiskarTech actively collaborates with key government agencies such as the Social Security System, Department of Education, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to expand its reach and enhance its digital financial service offerings. These partnerships drive broader financial inclusion and uplift DiskarTech’s growing entrepreneurial clientele, especially in grassroots communities.

Available in Taglish and Cebuano, the app ensures both language accessibility and cultural relevance for its diverse user base.

RCBC ATM Go, the country’s largest bank-agnostic mobile ATM network, has expanded its reach to 100 percent of provinces and cities, and 95 percent of municipalities nationwide. It empowers over 5,000 MSMEs as banking agents, enabling sustainable livelihoods in grassroots communities.

At least 20 percent of these agents now rely on Starlink satellite internet to operate in the most remote island and off-grid areas, ensuring no Filipino is left behind. In partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), ATM Go also supports the digitalization of tourism-related financial transactions.

It introduced Southeast Asia’s first manual withdrawal service for VISA and Mastercard debit cards, benefiting both domestic and foreign users. Notably, over 60 percent of ATM Go users are rural women, and 70 percent of transactions are for government cash disbursements such as 4Ps, salaries, pensions, and aid to public sector workers.

“This six-peat is more than a milestone—it’s a mission in motion,” said Lito Villanueva, executive vice president and chief innovation and inclusion officer of RCBC. “We are proud to pioneer solutions that are contextual, inclusive, and deeply impactful. This honor is shared with our partners and clients, whose trust fuels our resolve to uplift lives and empower communities through world-class digital finance.”

With this historic win, RCBC sets a new gold standard for what it means to be a digitally driven, inclusively built, and future-ready bank for the Filipino people.

#FintechAlliancePH #EuromoneyAwards

Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas: Reaching Out to a Pasay Community for Self Empowerment

The quiet street of Barangay 43, Zone 6, Pasay City became the backdrop for a community-centered event that blended grassroots empowerment with modern entrepreneurship on July 4, 2025. At the center of this initiative was Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, Co Founder and COO of Tag Media Group, a  leader in both business and media, whose keynote session became the most anticipated and impactful moment of the Bahay Tubo Project, a business development program organized by students from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

The project, held under the college’s Center for Student Life - Academic Extension Program and the Center for Social Action, aligned with the goals of the National Service Training Program (NSTP). It aimed to provide single parents with the skills and tools to start and sustain small, home-based food businesses.

But it was the talk by Engr. Nicolas, also President of Rising Tigers Magazine, that truly set the tone for ambition and transformation.

Lessons in Modern Entrepreneurship

Speaking to students, aspiring entrepreneurs and local community members, Engr. Nicolas delivered a practical and inspiring discussion on the realities of building a business in the digital age. She highlighted the role of digital platforms in reaching wider markets and establishing brand presence, especially for small-scale entrepreneurs operating from home.

More importantly, she emphasized that innovation is an integral part of doing or starting a business. Whether through unique product offerings, creative marketing strategies, or the use of technology to streamline operations, innovation, she said, must be a mindset from the very beginning.

Throughout her session, Engr. Nicolas maintained an open and engaging atmosphere, encouraging participation and interaction. Attendees who contributed ideas or asked questions were recognized with small tokens of appreciation — a gesture that energized the discussion and created a warm, collaborative environment.

An inspiring talk from the heart: A Conversation That Resonated

Unlike typical lectures, the event adopted a focus group discussion format, giving participants a chance to voice their ideas, share challenges, and receive real-time guidance. Engr. Nicolas responded with tailored advice and relevant examples, bridging the gap between theory and practice in a way that participants found highly relatable.

The session not only deepened the participants’ understanding of entrepreneurship but also gave them a renewed sense of purpose. With each exchange, the message became clearer: with knowledge, creativity, and the right support, starting a business is not only possible, it can be transformative.

Building a Platform for Change

Behind the success of the Bahay Tubo Project was a team of committed Benildean student leaders who handled logistics, communications, finance, facilitation, and overall project management. Their coordination ensured a smooth and meaningful rollout of the pilot phase, which included six main participants identified from the local community.

In partnership with the Barangay 43 local government, the program responded to the community’s call for inclusive, sustainable livelihood efforts. Though modest in scale, the event marked an important beginning in strengthening local capacity through education and enterprise.

A Promising Start

Engr. Nicolas’s presence at the Bahay Tubo launch elevated the project into something more than a community workshop, it became a launching pad for new ideas, renewed confidence, and genuine connection. Her insights on digital selling, innovation, and self-empowerment struck a chord with participants eager to take charge of their futures.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and The En Banc

 

Guardian of Democracy: COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia and the En Banc’s Crucial Role in Elections

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) stands as the cornerstone of Philippine democracy, ensuring that every election is free, fair, and credible. At the helm of this vital institution is Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, a seasoned legal expert and administrator tasked with upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Under his leadership, the COMELEC en banc—composed of the Chairman and six Commissioners—plays a pivotal role in shaping election policies, resolving disputes, and safeguarding the people’s right to vote.  

The Constitutional Mandate of COMELEC

Established in 1940 and reinforced by subsequent constitutions, COMELEC operates as an independent body separate from the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Its mandate encompasses:  

1. Quasi-Judicial Functions– Resolving election contests, determining voter qualifications, and prosecuting election-related offenses.  

2. Ministerial Functions– Enforcing election laws, accrediting political parties, and deputizing law enforcement for secure elections.  

3. Reportorial and Recommendatory Duties** – Submitting post-election reports to Congress and proposing reforms to curb fraud and excessive campaign spending.  

Chairman Garcia: Leading with Integrity

As the Chief Executive Officer of COMELEC, Chairman Garcia oversees the execution of policies, supervises internal administration, and presides over en banc sessions. His legal expertise—being a member of the Philippine Bar with over a decade of practice—ensures that decisions align with constitutional principles.  

Key responsibilities under his leadership include:  

- Policy Formulation– Guiding the Commission in adopting rules for orderly elections.  

- Dispute Resolution– Ensuring fair adjudication of electoral protests.  

- Election Security– Coordinating with the military and police to prevent violence and fraud.  

The En Banc: Collective Decision-Making 

The COMELEC en banc serves as the policy-making body where major decisions are deliberated and finalized. Composed of Chairman Garcia and six Commissioners, the en banc exercises both quasi-legislative (rule-making) and quasi-judicial (adjudicatory) powers.  

Notably, the en banc handles:  

- High-Profile Election Cases– Disputes involving regional, provincial, and city officials.  

- Rulemaking– Setting guidelines for voter registration, campaign finance, and candidate eligibility.  

- Election Oversight– Approving measures to prevent fraud and ensure transparency.  

Challenges and the Path Forward

Under Chairman Garcia’s stewardship, COMELEC faces evolving challenges—from disinformation to logistical hurdles in automated elections. His leadership is crucial in maintaining public trust, especially as the country prepares for future electoral exercises.  

As the guardian of the ballot, Chairman Garcia and the en banc remain steadfast in their mission: to uphold democracy by ensuring that every Filipino vote is counted, protected, and respected.  

For more in-depth coverage on Philippine governance and elections, stay tuned to TopNewsAsia Magazine. Rising Tigers Magazine now at National Book Store, Fullybooked Gas Stations, Shell, Caltex Gas Stations, Lazada and Shopee. 

#comelec #enbanc #georgegarcia