TRAVEL MADNESS EXPO 2026 Returns to SMX MOA

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

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

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

 *EVENT DETAILS*

- *What*: Travel Madness Expo 2026

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

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

 *WHAT TO EXPECT*

*1. Airfare Seat Sales*  

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

*2. Hotel & Resort Deals*  

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

*3. Tour Packages*  

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

*4. Travel Perks*  

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

*VISITOR TIPS*

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

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

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

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

*Getting to SMX MOA*:  

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

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

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

#TravelMadnessExpo2026 #SMXMOA #TravelDealsPH 

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

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

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

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

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

*Highlights of the Program:*

*1. Good Governance and Kotong-Free City*  

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

*2. Digital Transformation*  

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

*3. National-Local Collaboration*  

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

 *Event Details*

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

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

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

 *Where*: San Pablo City Hall LGU Convention Center 

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

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

#SOCA2026 #TuloyAngPagbabago 

#MayorGapangada #SanPabloCity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Champions Sovereign Cloud and AI at National ICT Summit 2026

 

How do we move Philippine governance from mere compliance to absolute digital confidence? That was the defining question at the National Information and Communications Technology (NICT) Summit 2026 in Manila. Speaking to over 200 government Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and public sector tech leaders, MaroonStudios CEO James Mendoza laid out a bold roadmap for the country’s digital future. His message was clear: Data sovereignty is no longer a checkbox—it is a national imperative. 🌐 The Shift to "Geopatriation" & Digital Sovereignty With $100 billion being committed globally to sovereign compute infrastructure, and 75% of enterprise workloads trending toward "geopatriation," the public sector must pivot away from borderless, one-size-fits-all public clouds. To solve uniquely Filipino challenges—like strict data residency laws and maintaining public service continuity during typhoon season—MaroonStudios introduced a powerful, unified infrastructure ecosystem: The Sovereign Foundation (Converge Cloud): Powered by 890,000+ kilometers of fiber assets and local data centers (Angeles, Clark, Pasig, Caloocan), ensuring data stays firmly within Philippine borders. The Hyperscaler AI Foundation (Google Cloud): Integrated seamlessly into the sovereign stack, leveraging Gemini Enterprise to bring world-class AI directly to the government workplace. "AI is not here to replace our public servants. It is here to give them superpowers at the moment our citizens need them most. But before you can run AI, you need a cloud and AI foundation you can trust." — James Mendoza, CEO Special guest Steve Ledzian (CTO of Google Cloud Security and Mandiant) also joined the stage, reinforcing that uncompromising, built-in security is the bedrock of this multi-cloud architecture. 🛒 Modernizing Government Procurement We are officially stripping the bureaucracy out of tech adoption. MaroonStudios announced two major breakthroughs to accelerate public sector digital transformation: Converge Cloud One-Click Marketplace Launches with 20+ pre-vetted applications (like automated eKYC citizen onboarding tools), expanding to 100+ applications by the end of the year. PS-DBM eMarketplace Integration Major Announcement: All MaroonStudios Google Cloud products—including Google Workspace, Google Cloud, and Google Security—are now officially available on the PS-DBM eMarketplace. "Historically, government procurement has been a long, arduous journey of paperwork. We are bringing a bit of that 'checkout' magic to government IT. Bili na, Add to Cart na!" — James Mendoza 🤝 Strengthening Public Trust Beyond the keynote, Mendoza joined an expert panel on “Strengthening Public Trust in Government Through Technology and Innovation.” He highlighted how secure data sovereignty and localized cloud infrastructure empower agencies to protect citizen data while maintaining the transparency needed to build lasting public confidence. 🇵🇭 Ready to Build the Future? As the Philippines' top Google Cloud Premier Partner, MaroonStudios has already empowered more than 70 government agencies with our award-winning team of cloud professionals. Armed with open procurement pathways and sovereign local infrastructure, we are ready to guide the next generation of AI-ready Philippine governance.

NICT Summit 2026 Kicks Off at Manila Hotel - “Strengthening Public Trust in Government Through Technology and Innovation

June 22-23, 2026 | The Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Manila

 Government officials, tech leaders, and innovators gathered today at *The Manila Hotel* for the *NICT Summit 2026*, a 2-day forum focused on one urgent question: How can digital tech rebuild and strengthen public trust in government?

With the theme *“Strengthening Public Trust in Government Through Technology and Innovation”*, the summit runs *June 22-23, 2026* and positions Manila as the hub for GovTech discussions in ASEAN this year.

*Day 1 Highlights: June 22, 2026*

1. *Opening Keynote - “Trust by Design”*  

   DICT officials opened the summit emphasizing that transparency, data privacy, and citizen-first design are no longer “extras” - they’re the foundation of e-government. _“Ang tiwala ng tao, hindi na lang nakukuha sa pangako. Nakukuha na rin sa code at data,”_ one speaker said.

2. *Panel: “From Red Tape to One Click”*  

   LGU leaders from Calabarzon, Metro Manila, and Davao shared how AI chatbots, e-payment portals, and digital IDs cut processing time from weeks to minutes. Case study: Calamba City’s new permit system that gives real-time status updates to applicants.

3. *Innovation Showcase*  

   The Manila Hotel ballroom turned into a GovTech expo. Startups demoed:  

   - Blockchain for land title verification to fight land grabbing  

   - AI-powered public service chatbots in Tagalog + 10 regional dialects  

   - Cybersecurity tools built specifically for LGU systems

4. *“Gov for Gen Z” Town Hall*  

   Student leaders debated with officials about fake news, digital literacy, and how government can communicate better on TikTok and Messenger - where most Filipinos get news now.

 *What to Expect on Day 2: June 23, 2026*

1. *Workshop: Building Trust Through Data Privacy*  

   Hands-on session for government IT staff on NPC guidelines + practical steps to protect citizen data.

2. *“Innovation Pitch” Competition*  

   10 Filipino startups will pitch GovTech solutions to a panel of DICT + private investors. Winner gets pilot funding with an LGU partner.

3. *Closing Fireside Chat*  

   Tech leaders + policymakers will discuss: “Can AI make government more human?”

 *Why Manila Hotel Matters*

Hosting at The Manila Hotel was symbolic. A century-old landmark meeting 2026 digital innovation - showing that trust in government blends heritage, accountability, and new tech.

*Key takeaway from Day 1:* Technology alone doesn’t build trust. But when systems are fast, transparent, and secure, _tiwala ng bayan_ follows.

#NICTSUMMIT2026

#emudhra #maroonstudios #sagesoft

#outsystems #globebusiness #AWS

#Adminbyrequest #Fudo #Gefura #Sangfor

#Banbros #Easterncommunications #Autodesk

#Cisco #Canon #Fortinet #netpoleon #GSIS

#SolidBusiness #DellTechnologies

Celebrating Rizal’s 165th Birth Anniversary on June 19, 2026

Calamba City, Laguna turned into the nation’s center of patriotism today as *Laguna Governor Sol Aragones,  *Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito* joined Mayor Roseller H. Rizal, Vice Mayor Angelito Lazaro Jr. , Congresswoman Charisse Hernandez, members of Sangguniang Panlungsod, Board Members, representatives from  various Civic organizations, government officials, ever present medias, and thousands of Calambeños, in celebrating the *165th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal* at the Rizal Shrine, the hero’s exact birthplace on Mercado Street.

With the theme *“Pamana ng Bayani: Kabataan, Pag-asa ng Bayan”*, this year’s Rizal Day emphasized unity between local and national leaders to inspire the youth.

*VIP Guests Honor Rizal at “Bahay ni Rizal”*

The program began in the morning with a *flag raising and wreath-laying ceremony* at the replica of the Mercado-Rizal ancestral house.

*Laguna Governor Sol Aragones* led the provincial wreath offering. In her message, she said: _“Si Rizal ay anak ng Laguna. Ngayong 2026, tungkulin natin sa probinsya na palakasin ang edukasyon at kabuhayan - dahil iyon ang ipinaglaban ni Gat Jose.”_ She also announced additional scholarship funds for Laguna students under the “Rizal Iskolar” program.

*Senator JV Ejercito*, guest of honor, delivered the keynote address  “Rizal wrote with a pen, not a sword. Sa panahon ngayon ng fake news at AI, ang panulat pa rin - at critical thinking - ang pinakamabisang armas ng kabataan,”_ the senator stressed. He pledged support for the *“Rizal Digital Archives for Schools”* project launched today, which gives students free access to Rizal’s digitized works. And committed 100 Million pesos for Laguna MEGA Clinic

*Mayor Roseller H. Rizal* welcomed the guests and led the tour at the "Museo Ni Jose Rizal Calamba".

 *Highlights of the 2026 Celebration*

1. *“Lakad Rizal” Unity Walk*: Gov. Aragones, gov't officials and Mayor Rizal walked with 1,500 students from the Shrine to Plaza Rizal, carrying flags and banners with Rizal quotes reimagined for 2026 issues like mental health and digital citizenship.

2. *“Tula at Awit kay Gat Jose”*: Performances by LPU-Laguna and Calamba public school students featured _Mi Ultimo Adios_ in Tagalog, English, and Filipino Sign Language.

3. *Calamba Bayani Market*: Local MSMEs sold _buko pie_, _kesong puti_, and crafts at Plaza Rizal. Proceeds go to Calamba’s scholarship fund

 *Leaders’ Unified Message*

The 3 leaders stood together for a photo at the birth site and delivered one shared message to the youth: _“Ang tunay na pag-ibig sa bayan, nagsisimula sa pag-aaral, paglilingkod, at malasakit - tulad ni Rizal.”_

For Calamba, having the Governor and a Senator join the birthday rites at “Bahay ni Rizal” made 2026’s Rizal Day more than a ceremony. It became a reminder that Rizal’s legacy is a shared responsibility from _barangay_ to Senate.

*“Isinilang si Rizal sa Calamba. Pero ang diwa niya, para sa buong Pilipinas,”* Mayor Rizal concluded.

#CalambaCity

#MayorRosellerRizal

#GovSolAragones

#MuseoNiJoseRizalCalamba

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Marks Shift from Web3 Potential to Real-World Deployment

 

Captions: Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 presents its 2026 theme, building on the momentum of last year’s “Decoded” event.

MANILA, Philippines, April 20, 2026 — The next phase of the digital economy will not be announced after the fact—it will take shape in real time at Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2026.

From June 19 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, PBW 2026 returns with the theme “Decoded: Deployed.” This year’s event moves beyond theory to showcase how blockchain is already being used to power real systems—from finance and gaming to public infrastructure and digital identity.

If you have ever used a digital wallet, played an online game to earn, or questioned how public funds are tracked, you are already part of this shift. PBW 2026 is where you see where it goes next—and who is building it.

From “Decoded” to “Deployed”

PBW 2026 reflects the country’s transition from understanding blockchain to actively implementing it. What was once experimental is now being deployed—with growing relevance in transparency, accountability, and economic participation.

The event is expected to draw over 15,000 attendees, surpassing last year’s 11,000 participants and marking its largest gathering since its launch in 2022.

“PBW 2026 brings together the energy of a festival with the depth of a world-class conference. We're creating a full-spectrum experience, where business, culture, and community come together in one space,” said PBW President and Co-Founder Janelle Barretto.

Designed to be the most expansive PBW yet, the event brings together decision-makers, builders, creators, and communities across multiple touchpoints:

Here’s what to expect at PBW 2026:

Philippine Blockchain Leadership Forum
An invitation-only summit co-presented by the Blockchain Council of the Philippines (BCP), aligning leaders from government, finance, and global industry to shape policy, accelerate collaboration, and define blockchain’s role alongside AI and cybersecurity.

Alt+Tab Gaming & Music Festival
A high-energy cultural platform connecting blockchain to the next generation through gaming, esports, P-Pop, cosplay, and fandom-driven experiences.

Decoded: Deployed Main Conference
Where global thought leaders present real-world applications of blockchain—from financial inclusion to secure data ownership and beyond.

Innovation Expo

A hands-on look at Web3 in action, featuring fintech platforms, gaming ecosystems, and enterprise solutions already being deployed across the Philippines.

Also featured: Celebrity Bazaar, PBW Fight Night, hackathon, VC–startup matchmaking, after-parties, and curated networking events designed to turn conversations into partnerships.

The Philippines’ young, mobile-first population and deeply embedded gaming culture continue to position it as a key Web3 market. From play-to-earn ecosystems to digital asset platforms and emerging fintech solutions, blockchain is no longer niche—it is becoming part of everyday life.

Blockchain: A New Era of Digital Trust

As the Philippine digital economy accelerates, blockchain is moving from exploration to execution.

From transparency initiatives to policy proposals like the Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, both industry and government are beginning to operationalize the technology. Programs such as the BCP’s Integrity Chain further reflect this shift—exploring how blockchain can strengthen accountability in real-world settings.

At PBW 2026, this momentum converges—bringing together the people, platforms, and policies shaping what comes next.

“Blockchain is no longer just about potential—it’s about execution,” said BCP Chairman and Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) President, Donald Lim. “What matters now is how we align efforts across industry and government to turn early use cases into systems that deliver real, lasting impact.”

This is not just another industry event—it is where the next wave of partnerships, products, and policies begins. If you are serious about being part of the digital economy, this is where you need to be—not after, but while it is happening.

Since its inception, PBW has evolved into a platform where ideas turn into action. For tickets and more information, visit https://pbw.ph/ or email info@pbw.ph

Decoded: Deployed Main Conference
Where global thought leaders present real-world applications of blockchain—from financial inclusion to secure data ownership and beyond.

Innovation Expo
A hands-on look at Web3 in action, featuring fintech platforms, gaming ecosystems, and enterprise solutions already being deployed across the Philippines.

Also featured: Celebrity Bazaar, PBW Fight Night, hackathon, VC–startup matchmaking, after-parties, and 

COMELEC Active In The Preparations for Dasmariñas Special Election

Dasmariñas City, Cavite — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) continues to strengthen its preparations for upcoming electoral exercises as it conducted its 1st Coordination Meeting for the Special Election for Member of the House of Representatives representing the 4th District of Cavite (Dasmariñas City).

The meeting, held on June 11, 2026 at the Socio-Economic Building in Burol Main, Dasmariñas City, was led by COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia, together with members of the COMELEC En Banc — Commissioners Rey E. Bulay, Ernesto Ferdinand P. Maceda Jr., Maria Norina S. Tangaro-Casingal, and Noli R. Pipo.

The activity marked the beginning of the agency’s operational preparations to ensure that the special election will be conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and credible manner, giving Dasmariñas voters the opportunity to choose their next representative.

COMELEC is tasked to conduct the special election following the permanent vacancy in the House of Representatives after the expulsion of 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga Jr. on June 2, 2026.

Under Section 4 of Republic Act No. 7166, the poll body is mandated to hold a special election when a permanent vacancy occurs in the House of Representatives before the end of the term, ensuring that constituents will continue to have representation in Congress.

The preparation comes as COMELEC manages multiple major electoral responsibilities, including the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections and the early groundwork for the 2028 National and Local Elections.

Despite the demanding election calendar, Chairman Garcia and the COMELEC leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining readiness and ensuring that every electoral process is properly planned and executed.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Executive Director for Administration Atty. Helen G. Aguila-Flores, Deputy Executive Director for Operations Atty. Rafael B. Olaño, and other officials from the COMELEC Main Office and Region IV-A.

As COMELEC continues its preparations on several fronts, the poll body reminded the public to follow official announcements regarding schedules and procedures for the Dasmariñas City Special Election.

The agency’s continued coordination reflects its commitment to safeguarding the people’s right to vote and ensuring that every community maintains its voice in government.

#COMELEC

#DasmarinasCaviteSpecialElection

Safety First! COMELEC Orders School Assessment After Southern Mindanao Earthquake For The Upcoming Elections

Following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Southern Mindanao, George Erwin M. Garcia ordered field personnel of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to conduct an assessment of schools that will serve as voting centers for upcoming elections.

Garcia said the evaluation will determine whether schools remain safe and suitable for use, or if alternative venues will be needed.

“Inatas natin sa ating mga tauhan sa field [na] alamin at magkaroon ng assessment tungkol sa kalagayan ng mga eskwelahan na gagamitin natin, hindi lamang sa Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, lalong-lalo na itong mga gagamitin natin para sa Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE),” Garcia said.

“Kakailanganin ba nating ilipat ’yung mismong lugar kung saan magkakaroon ng election o pwedeng manatili na lamang doon sa mismong area kung nasaan ang paaralan,” he added.

The COMELEC chief emphasized that the safety of voters, teachers, and election personnel remains a priority as preparations continue for the scheduled electoral activities.

COMELEC Chief Garcia Acted At Once After Southern Mindanao Earthquake

June 10, 2026–Following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Southern Mindanao, George Erwin M. Garcia immediately checked on the condition of field personnel, offices, and equipment of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

Garcia said no personnel were injured and that the agency’s offices remained safe with only minor incidents reported.

“Pagkatapos na pagkatapos ng lindol ay nag-follow up kaagad tayo sa mga tauhan sa field, lalo na ’yung kalagayan nila, at siyempre ’yung ating opisina at mga kagamitan. So far, wala naman tayong nasaktan na mga tauhan,” Garcia said.

He added, “’Yung mga opisina naman po namin, wala rin pong damage, maliban lang sa mga pagtaob ng mga cabinet. Aside from that, wala po. Wala pong nawalang mga dokumento. Intact ang lahat.”

The COMELEC chief emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of personnel and maintaining the continuity of the agency’s operations after the earthquake.

COMELEC Chair George Erwin M. Garcia: Barzaga Can Still Run; Expulsion Not a Lifetime Ban From Public Office

Following the removal of former Congressman Kiko Barzaga as representative of the lone district of Dasmariñas, Cavite, George Erwin Mojica Garcia clarified that his expulsion from the House of Representatives does not automatically prevent him from seeking public office again.

Garcia explained that under existing laws and jurisprudence, expulsion from Congress is administrative in nature and does not constitute a perpetual disqualification to hold public office.

“Yes, pwede siyang mag-file ng Certificate of Candidacy, sapagkat ang kanyang pagkakatanggal sa pagiging Kongresista ay hindi po perpetual disqualification to hold public office,” Garcia said.

The COMELEC chief noted that any challenge to Barzaga’s possible candidacy may still be raised before the proper courts, including the Supreme Court, once the election guidelines are issued.

“Kung sakali po na ‘yung aking naging statement na makakatakbo siya ay merong gustong mag-question later, especially kapag nilabas na namin ‘yung guidelines, ‘yan naman po ay pwedeng itaas sa Korte Suprema,” Garcia added.

Garcia also announced that the COMELEC is preparing for a possible special election in Dasmariñas, Cavite following the vacancy in the House of Representatives. The poll body is initially estimating around P200 million in expenses for the conduct of the election, considering the district’s 437,730 registered voters.

Under the Constitution, a special election must be held not earlier than 60 days and not later than 90 days after the vacancy occurs. Garcia said the COMELEC En Banc is considering possible dates, including August 22 or August 29, 2026.

“Tayo po ay binigyan ng ating Saligang Batas na magsagawa ng special election ng hindi po maaga ng animnapung (60) araw at hindi po lalagpas ng siyamnapung (90) araw matapos ang pagkakaroon ng bakante,” Garcia said.

With transparency and adherence to the law as the COMELEC’s priority, Garcia emphasized that the commission will ensure that the electoral process remains guided by constitutional rules and established legal principles.

COMELEC Chair said "This is our commitment, tuloy ang halalan"

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia assured the public that the country’s electoral process will continue despite challenges, emphasizing that the 2028 elections and succeeding electoral activities remain a firm commitment of the poll body.

Garcia stressed that the COMELEC does not want the public, especially election stakeholders, to question the credibility of the electoral process. He said transparency will remain at the center of every step leading to the National and Local Elections (NLE).

“Ayaw natin na pinagdududahan ang ating proseso. Ayaw natin na may tanong ang mga kababayan natin, lalo na ang stakeholders natin. Gusto natin, as transparent as possible,” Garcia said.

He added that every procedure related to the conduct of elections will be made known to the public, underscoring the COMELEC’s commitment to open and accountable governance.

According to Garcia, challenges such as budget limitations will not stop the agency from fulfilling its constitutional duty to protect every Filipino’s right to vote.

“So long as the voters are registering at nakikita natin ‘yung init ng damdamin ng mga kababayan natin na sadyang bumoto, balewala po lahat ng challenges na ‘yan,” he said.

“COMELEC can always innovate. Kulang sa budget? Gagawa’t gagawan natin ng paraan basta makapagparehistro ang botante, at the same time, makaboto. Nobody should be left behind. Nobody should be disenfranchised,” he added.

Garcia also dismissed speculations about a possible “No Election” scenario, clarifying that discussions surrounding possible constitutional amendments do not affect the COMELEC’s mandate to prepare for elections.

He explained that the COMELEC’s rules on constitutional amendment initiatives remain suspended due to unresolved legal issues, but this does not stop the agency from carrying out its election preparations.

“This is our commitment, tuloy ang halalan,” Garcia emphasized.

During the stakeholders’ forum, Garcia described the gathering as the COMELEC’s message to the nation and the international community that preparations for future elections are ongoing.

“Hindi po magpapakahirap ang COMELEC, hindi po para aming ipatawag, ipanghinging oras at panahon mula sa ating stakeholders kung wala po tayong pinaplanong eleksyon,” he said.

With Garcia at the helm, the COMELEC reiterated that the electoral process will remain focused on ensuring that every qualified Filipino voter can participate, reinforcing the principle that no voter should be left behind and no voice should be silenced.

“Expelled, But Not Barred: COMELEC Chief Garcia Says Barzaga May Still Run Again”

The political spotlight remains on former Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga following his expulsion from the House of Representatives, as COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia clarified that the move does not automatically prevent him from seeking public office again.

Garcia explained that Barzaga may still file his Certificate of Candidacy, stressing that expulsion from Congress is not equivalent to a lifetime ban from politics.

“Yes, he can file his Certificate of Candidacy because his removal as a Congressman is not a perpetual disqualification to hold public office,” Garcia said.

The COMELEC chief emphasized that any challenge to Barzaga’s possible candidacy may still be elevated to the Supreme Court, but existing laws and jurisprudence do not consider expulsion as a permanent disqualification.

“Based on our laws, existing Supreme Court decisions, and legal provisions, this is not a ground for perpetual disqualification to hold public office. This expulsion is administrative in character,” Garcia added.

Meanwhile, COMELEC is preparing for a possible special election in the lone district of Dasmariñas, Cavite, following the vacancy created in the House.

Garcia said the poll body’s initial estimate places the cost of the special election at around ₱200 million, with Dasmariñas having a total voting population of 437,730 registered voters.

“The Constitution mandates us to conduct a special election not earlier than 60 days and not later than 90 days after a vacancy occurs in the House of Representatives,” Garcia said.

Based on the initial discussions of the COMELEC En Banc, the special election may be held on August 22 or August 29, 2026.

The issue surrounding Barzaga’s expulsion now highlights the balance between legislative discipline and the constitutional right of citizens to participate in public service, a matter that may continue to be tested in the legal arena.

Garcia's Battle Cry: 'Nobody Should Be Disenfranchised'

 

With confidence, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to democratic participation, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia delivered a powerful message to election stakeholders and the Filipino public: the 2028 National and Local Elections are moving forward, and nothing will stand in their way.

Speaking at the Stakeholders Forum and Presentation of the Draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Automated Election System, Garcia underscored the Commission’s commitment to transparency, stressing that public trust begins with an open and accountable electoral process.

“Ayaw natin na pinagdududahan ang ating proseso. Ayaw natin na may tanong ang ating mga kababayan. Gusto natin, as transparent as possible,” Garcia declared.

For the election chief, transparency is not just a policy, it is a promise. He assured stakeholders that every major step in the preparations for the 2028 elections will be made known to the public, reinforcing COMELEC’s commitment to credibility and integrity.

Garcia also highlighted the Commission’s determination to ensure that every eligible Filipino is given the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, regardless of budgetary or logistical challenges.

“So long as the voters are registering at nakikita natin ang init ng damdamin ng mga kababayan natin na bumoto, balewala po lahat ng challenges na ’yan. The COMELEC can always innovate,” he said.

“Kulang sa budget? Gagawa’t gagawan natin ng paraan. Nobody should be left behind. Nobody should be disenfranchised.”

The chairman likewise addressed speculation surrounding a possible “No Election” scenario linked to proposals for constitutional amendments. Garcia firmly dismissed such concerns, explaining that COMELEC’s rules on constitutional amendments remain suspended and that no active process currently exists that could disrupt the scheduled elections.

In clarifying issues surrounding candidate eligibility, Garcia pointed to existing jurisprudence, including the Jalosjos vs. COMELEC ruling, emphasizing the constitutional principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty by final judgment.

Most significantly, Garcia described the forum itself as COMELEC’s strongest public declaration that preparations for the 2028 polls are already in full swing.

“Ito po ang aming nagsusumigaw na announcement sa buong mundo, sa ating mga kababayan, na tuloy na tuloy po ang halalan sa 2028.”

With voter registration continuing to attract enthusiastic participation and preparations steadily advancing, Garcia’s message was unmistakable: COMELEC is ready to innovate, adapt, and safeguard every Filipino’s right to vote. Under his leadership, the Commission is sending a clear signal that transparency, inclusivity, and electoral integrity will remain at the heart of the nation’s democratic future.

*SiGMA Asia 2026 Day 1: Awards Gala Takes Center Stage at Conrad Hotel*

*Pasay City, June 2, 2026* – Day 2 of *SiGMA Asia 2026* shifted gears at the *SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex* as the summit moved from expo floors to its marquee event: the *SiGMA Asia Awards Gala*. While the official opening ceremony kicked off June 2 at SMX MOA with Mr.Alejandro H.Tengco Chairperson and CEO of PAGCOR.

*SiGMA Asia Awards 2026* brought together operators, affiliates, tech providers, and regulators under one roof. The awards were adjudicated by *KPMG US*, adding weight to categories recognizing innovation, compliance, and growth across Asia’s gaming market.

The gala followed a full day of conference panels at SMX, including “Bet Big or Go Home: Why Asian Players Outspend the World” and “Prediction Markets in Asia: Event Contracts vs iGaming”. After the panels wrapped at 6:00 PM, delegates changed from business to formal for the evening ceremony.

*Day 2 Highlights at SMX MOA*

*1. Conference Depth*  

Day 2 panels doubled down on regulation, AI in gaming, Web3, and responsible gambling. With 40+ speakers on the SiGMA Asia agenda, SMX conference rooms were packed as C-level execs and PAGCOR representatives discussed Asia’s next phase of growth.

*2. Expo Still Active*  

The  expo floor remained open during the day. Booths from PG Soft, payment/AML firms, and platform developers continued demos and B2B matchmaking. The startup pitch competitions also ran sessions ahead of finals later this week.

*3. Networking Intensifies*  

With 15 networking dinners scheduled across the 4-day summit, Night 2 saw multiple VIP dinners around MOA Complex. The awards gala itself served as the biggest networking hub of the week.

 *PAGCOR & Manila’s Role*

PAGCOR Chairperson & CEO Alejandro H. Tengco’s endorsement framed both Day 1 and Day 2. Organizers reiterated that SiGMA Asia strengthens PH’s position as “Asia’s gaming hub” by bringing global SiGMA World delegates to SMX MOA. Venue access stayed 15-30 mins from NAIA, though traffic around MOA peaked as gala guests arrived.

*What’s Next*

SiGMA Asia 2026 runs through *June 3, 2026* at SMX MOA. Day 3 focuses on remaining conference tracks, final expo hours, and the last large party of the summit.

#SIGMAASIA2026

#SMXMOA

#SIGMAWORLD

*SiGMA World: SiGMA Asia 2026 Takes Over Manila May 31 – June 3*

SiGMA World, the global iGaming summit brand, is bringing its Asia flagship back to Manila. *SiGMA Asia 2026* runs *May 31 – June 3, 2026* at the *SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex*, and it’s set to be the biggest edition yet.

*SiGMA World x SiGMA Asia: The Connection*

SiGMA World is the parent brand behind SiGMA’s global summits - Malta, Dubai, São Paulo, Cape Town, and Asia. Think of SiGMA Asia as the “World” tour stop focused purely on Asia-Pacific markets. It’s where SiGMA’s global network meets Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing gaming audience.

PAGCOR officially endorsed the event through Chairperson & CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, calling it “significant to the country’s regulated gaming and FinTech industries”. 

 *Manila 2026: Key Details*

- *Dates*: May 31 – June 3, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

- *Venue*: SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

- *Expected turnout*: 20,000+ attendees from operators, affiliates, regulators, fintech, and Web3

- *Format*:  expo + conference + networking + awards.

*What’s on the Agenda*

*1. World-Class Expo Floor*

Two levels of exhibitors: land-based & online casino operators, gaming software/platform devs, payment + AML compliance, responsible gaming bodies, marketing, data analytics, and e-learning firms. Big brands like PG Soft are already booked with massive booths. 

*2. SiGMA World Conference*

Panels designed for SiGMA’s global audience but tailored to Asia. Day 2 highlights:

- “Bet Big or Go Home: Why Asian Players Outspend the World”

- “Prediction Markets in Asia: Event Contracts vs iGaming” 

Themes cover regulation, AI in gaming, Web3, esports, and responsible gambling. SiGMA World summits pull 2,600+ Reuters journalists worth of global context, but Asia edition focuses on APAC growth. 

*3. SiGMA World Networking*

This is what SiGMA is famous for:

- 15 networking dinners across Manila

- 2 large parties

- B2B/B2C matchmaking zones for deals

- Two startup pitch competitions for new iGaming tech 

*4. SiGMA Asia Awards Gala*

June 2, 2026 at SMX. Adjudicated by KPMG US, it recognizes top operators, affiliates, and tech providers in Asia. 

 *Why Manila for SiGMA World*

SiGMA chose Manila again because the Philippines is now “Asia’s gaming hub”. With PAGCOR’s regulatory framework + high digital adoption, Manila gives global SiGMA World delegates direct access to compliance, investors, and SE Asia’s player base. Venue is 15-30 mins from NAIA. 

 *Who Should Go*

If you’re part of SiGMA World’s ecosystem - operators, affiliates, payment providers, regulators, investors, content creators - SiGMA Asia 2026 is your APAC entry point. Sponsors include global regulators, industry associations, and major gaming brands. 

 *Tickets & Registration*

Register via the official SiGMA Asia organizer site. General delegate tickets are listed FREE on some platforms. VIP/Platinum gets you networking drinks + premium events. Most attendees stay near MOA for SMX + after-party access. Grab is the go-to transport. 

*Bottom line*: SiGMA World brings the global iGaming playbook to Manila every year. SiGMA Asia 2026 is that playbook applied to APAC - 4 days of panels, pitches, PAGCOR-backed networking, and parties that set the region’s agenda.