COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia Acts Swiftly in Response to Supreme Court TROs Ahead of 2025 Elections

**Manila, Intramuros** – The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has announced its full adherence to the Supreme Court's issuance of Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) concerning cases of local candidates for the upcoming May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections. This move underscores the commission's commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, amidst the challenges posed by legal disputes.

The TROs pertain to three specific cases:

1. Marie Grace R. David v. Commission on Elections (GR No. 277720)

2. Mary Dominique A. Onate v. COMELEC and Myra Georgina L. Arevalo (GR No. 277698)

3. Aldrin B. Sta. Ana v. COMELEC and Arturo P. Mendoza, Jr. (GR No. 277731)

In response, COMELEC has taken immediate action by halting the printing of ballots, conducting an inventory, and disposing of six million already printed ballots, alongside amending the candidates' database as required by these TROs.

The timing of these orders aligns with COMELEC's current efforts to implement necessary changes in various election systems such as the Election Management System (EMS), Automated Election System (AES), Consolidated Canvassing System (CCS), and Online Voting and Counting System (OVCS). These adjustments are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

As part of its contingency measures, COMELEC has scheduled the Trusted Build of the AES for Monday, January 20, 2025, at Palacio del Gobernador in Intramuros, Manila. This will be followed by the generation of new ballot face templates and their subsequent serialization on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the COMELEC Warehouse in Binan, Laguna.

These steps are indicative of COMELEC's proactive approach to mitigating any impact on election preparations due to these legal challenges. The commission is eager to resume ballot production promptly to make up for lost time and ensure that election materials are ready well in advance of Election Day.

COMELEC's assurance to the Filipino people is clear: despite these unforeseen hurdles, it remains fully capable of managing and overcoming these issues without compromising the smooth conduct of the forthcoming elections.

The commission's swift compliance with the Supreme Court's directives reflects its dedication to upholding electoral laws and regulations while ensuring that all logistical and technical aspects of election management are effectively addressed.

As we move closer to May 12, 2025, COMELEC's actions today will play a pivotal role in reinforcing public confidence in the electoral process — a cornerstone of democratic governance in the Philippines.

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Healthcare Waste Project Drives Zero Waste Practices in Hospitals and Facilities

 Press Release

17 January 2025

The Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management Project (HCW Project) held a forum today in celebration of International Zero Waste Month, highlighting the need to promote Zero Waste practices and principles in the healthcare sector, foster collaboration, and address challenges in implementing sustainable waste management solutions.

The event, dubbed “Zero Waste for Health: Advancing Sustainability in Healthcare Facilities,” was conducted simultaneously in three regions where the HCW Project is being implemented: Region 2, Region 8, and the National Capital Region, with a centralized online program. It was attended by healthcare professionals and waste management staff from partner hospitals of the HCW Project, along with local government representatives from their surrounding barangays and cities. The participating hospitals included Quezon Memorial Medical Center (QMMC) in Quezon City, Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC) in Tuguegarao City, and Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in Tacloban City.

According to Jam Lorenzo, BAN Toxics Deputy Executive Director and Manager of the HCW Project, Zero Waste is a concept that needs to be promoted in waste management systems as traditional approaches, such as focusing too much on recycling, no longer adequately address the increasing volume and complexity of healthcare waste, as well as the global waste crisis.

“Healthcare waste management remains a rapidly growing problem in need of urgent action, such as incorporating Zero Waste principles, which include waste minimization and ensuring environmentally sound practices and technologies are in place in hospitals and healthcare facilities.”

The HCW Project aims to improve healthcare waste management in the country with a special focus on reducing the release and emissions of hazardous substances from healthcare waste. The five-year project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) as the national lead agency, with the environmental NGO BAN Toxics serving as the executing entity.

The celebration of Zero Waste Month every January began in 2012 in the Philippines, when the youth sector presented a Zero Waste Manifesto. On May 5, 2014, Presidential Proclamation 760 was signed, officially designating January as Zero Waste Month. The first international celebration of Zero Waste Month took place in 2023, led by the international environmental organizations such as Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) and Break Free From Plastic (BFFP).

The DENR-EMB’s theme for this year’s Zero Waste Month centers on the cooperation and collaboration of the informal, private, and public sectors to encourage partnerships in reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact.

During the forum, Dr. Michelle Reyes, M.D., Sustainability Officer of Healthcare Without Harm (Asia), delivered a presentation on Zero Waste principles and practices in healthcare facilities. She provided actionable examples for moving forward, such as purchasing safer and more sustainable products, reducing plastic use, and identifying items that can be minimized or eliminated.

Representatives from the QMMC, CVMC, and EVMC discussed their waste management challenges and best practices. Notable practices at QMMC include mandatory training and orientations for personnel on waste management, use of reusable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), implementation of digitalization for waste collection data, urban gardening for composting, and a rainwater collection system.

A common concern across all partner hospitals is the insufficient waste storage facilities, further worsened by inefficient or delayed collection of general waste by Local Government Units.

Meanwhile, BAN Toxics shared the initial results of a Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception (KAP) survey conducted in the three partner hospitals in November of last year as part of the HCW Project. The survey, which covered 923 respondents, sought to evaluate the awareness levels of hospital patients and visitors, as well as surrounding communities, regarding healthcare waste management.

While all three hospitals have waste management and segregation programs, they face common challenges, particularly the lack of awareness about waste segregation and waste characterization among patients and visitors. QMMC has relatively higher awareness due to local ordinances, such as the Plastic Bag Ban and Single-Use Plastics Ban in Quezon City, which have supported more effective waste reduction systems. though insufficient availability of color-coded bins and containers remain a problem. 

At EVMC, in addition to these challenges, uncollected hospital waste is a growing concern. In CVMC, improper dumping of hospital waste in surrounding areas, coupled with limited funding for waste management, further exacerbates the situation. Across the hospitals, misconceptions about waste minimization, inadequate information dissemination, and insufficient training on proper waste segregation and hazardous waste disposal worsen the problem. This underscores the need for improved awareness and infrastructure to manage healthcare waste effectively. Respondents also preferred sourcing information from Barangay Leaders (LGUs) alongside healthcare providers.

Following the presentations, an open forum allowed attendees to engage with experts and peers, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and addressing pressing issues. In the afternoon session, an open discussion between the hospitals and local government units offered an opportunity to share insights from the KAP survey results.

To conclude the event, attendees participated in a partnership pledge to support Zero Waste principles in Healthcare Waste Management. This collective commitment symbolized a significant step toward fostering sustainable waste management across the healthcare sector.

Contact Person:

Thony Dizon

09178322616

InCharge Magazine and Rising Tigers Magazine at PAL Mabuhay Lounge

The Local and International Flights now for frequent fliers will both read for their indulgence the two print magazines under Tag Media Group; Rising Tigers Magazine which, already at the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Mabuhay Lounge, was launched there a year ago with the presence of the stakeholders headed by President Grace Bondad Nicolas and PALs President, Stanley K. Ng while,, InCharge Magazine with the premier launch last December 19 at the residence of Malaysia Ambassador in the Philippines are side by side now at PALs Lounges in the country. 

“I am delighted to send that Rising Tiger Magazines and InCharge magazine are now available for providing and engaging content for passengers. The distribution of Rising Tiger Magazines within North Wing, South Wing (Domestic Lounges) and International Lounge are now prominently displayed for enhancing passenger reading experiences.”- Arnold Cacho, Philippines Airlines Mabuhay Lounges Executive 

“We are trying to reach our target audience wherever they are. Print is one of the platforms and distributing in National Book Stores, Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounges and other prominent establishments is our success already. We are also heavy on our online platforms as we have more than 2 million readers combined from all our accounts. Since 2010, it is our goal for information dissemination, and we are not stopping to inspire the nation and beyond.”- Grace Bondad Nicolas, President and Publisher, Tag Media Group

Rising Tigers Magazine will be in monthly issues starting this 2025, while InCharge Magazine is on Demand. To be featured and to inspire the global arena, email president@tagmedia.asia.

Grab a copy of Incharge Magazine and Rising Tigers Magazine at National Bookstore

 

For the premier  issue, the InCharge team invited business tycoons, public servants and high profile professionals as featured leaders with Commission on Elections Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia in the cover.  

This is a compilation of stories of these leaders who are making an impact in the lives of so many people and the society today. To inspire the nation and to be emulated with the grit, perseverance and success these leaders has been experienced. To build a nation that never stops to be better. These are the leaders who are InCharge in nation building. 

Launched at the residence of His Excellency Malaysia Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino in Makati last December 19, 2024 with Editor in Chief Grace Bondad Nicolas, CEO Andrew Troy Nicolas, CMO Andria Terese Nicolas, Board of Advisers; Robert Laurel Yupangco, Dr. Elton See Tan and Becky Garcia. 

Also during the event, the “Captains of Industries” has been recognized for their success that includes; 

•Maricar Nepomuceno - Country Head, Digital Halo 

•Merle Mendoza Balicao - Co Founder, Mernels 

•Miles Ballestar, General Manager, Iontek

•Usec. Arnold “Ali” Atienza, Department of Agriculture 

•Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia 

•Cynthia Carrion, President, Gymnastics Association of the Philippines  

The magazine is distributed at National Book Stores nationwide and Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounges as well as different establishments in the country and beyond. 

InCharge Magazine is the second publication under Tag Media and Public Relations (TAG) also commonly known as Tag Media Group. First successful publication is Rising Tigers Magazine, the most circulated business and lifestyle print magazine in the Philippines. TAG is a certified publisher under The National Book Development Board (NBDB) which is the book authority of the Philippines. They are the leading catalyst for building a culture of reading and authorship as well as an environment for the growth of the Philippine book publishing industry.

Presenting InCharge, the new print magazine under Tag Media Group.

For Incharge Magazine, we will have business tycoons, public servants, members of diplomatic corps. and high profile professionals as featured leaders. 

This will be a compilation of stories of these leaders who are making an impact in the lives of so many people and the society today. To inspire the nation and to be emulated with the grit, perseverance and success these leaders has been experienced. To build a nation that never stops to be better. These are the leaders who are InCharge in nation building. 

The launch will be on December 19, 2024 with a ceremony and awarding for “Captains of Industries” and attendance of the featured leaders at the residence of Malaysia Ambassador in Makati. 

The magazine will be distributed at National Book Stores nationwide and Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounges as well as different establishments in the country. 

InCharge Magazine is the second publication under Tag Media and Public Relations (TAG) also commonly known as part of Tag Group of Companies. First successful publication is Rising Tigers Magazine. TAG is a certified publisher under The National Book Development Board (NBDB) which is the book authority of the Philippines. They are the leading catalyst for building a culture of reading and authorship as well as an environment for the growth of the Philippine book publishing community.

For inquiries and more information;

E: president@incharge.asia 

M: 09778978877

Grace Bondad Nicolas

President 

Tag Group

Atty. Arnel Mateo for Data Privacy Advocacy will Receive Excellence Awards from Aliw Awards Foundation

The prestigious Aliw Awards Foundation recognized Atty. Arnel Mateo, Founder and CEO of ADM & Partners Data Privacy and Consulting Inc., as one of its Excellence Honorees for his groundbreaking advocacy in data privacy and cybersecurity.

Atty. Mateo’s contributions highlight the critical role of protecting digital information and ensuring cybersecurity in today’s interconnected world. His efforts have paved the way for ethical data practices and heightened awareness of cyber safety, establishing him as a leader in this field.

Excellence Awardees: Celebrating Exceptional Contributions

The Excellence Awards honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions in various fields, uplifting industries and communities through their exemplary efforts and dedication. This year’s awardees embody the spirit of innovation, service, and leadership.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos

- Recognized for her generous support towards the development of the country’s live entertainment industry, enhancing cultural appreciation and opportunities for Filipino artists.

Mayor Joy Belmonte (Quezon City)  

- Celebrated for her unwavering commitment to supporting the live entertainment industry through initiatives like the Aliw Awards Foundation, fostering a thriving cultural landscape.

San Miguel Corporation

- Commended for its outstanding entrepreneurship and wholehearted support for the live entertainment industry, showcasing corporate social responsibility at its finest.

Atty. Ariel Mateo

- Founder and CEO of ADM & Partners Data Privacy and Consulting Inc., he is recognized for his outstanding contributions to data privacy and cybersecurity, ensuring technological advancements are met with safety and integrity.

Ms. Cory Navarro

- Founder and Owner of Kings Group of Companies, she is honored for her exceptional entrepreneurship, demonstrating excellence in business leadership and innovation.

Mr. T Paul Crewe

- As Director of Crewsharp, he is acknowledged for his remarkable work in providing top-tier healthcare services, addressing critical health needs with dedication.

Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

- Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Rising Tigers Magazine, she receives recognition for her outstanding entrepreneurship in media, influencing and inspiring the next generation of media practitioners.

Dr. Mildred Vande Vusse-Vitangcol

- Chairman of St. Peter Life Plan, she is celebrated for her vital contributions in providing much-needed services to the public, promoting social welfare and compassion.

These awardees are paragons of excellence in their respective fields, driving change and creating positive impacts. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for all to strive for greatness and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Excellence Awardees will be celebrated and presented on December 18, 2024 at The Manila Hotel. 

Aside from the entertainment industry, The Aliw Awards will recognize with Excellence Honorees  individuals like Atty. Mateo, who excel in their domains while creating meaningful impacts on society, furthering the Foundation’s mission of honoring excellence and inspiring innovation.

Shop All The Way as the World Bazaar Festival 2024 Opens Today!

PASAY CITY, PHILIPPINES. It’s time to shop all the way as the World Bazaar Festival (WBF) makes its grand return at the World Trade Center Metro Manila! With consistent increase in foot traffic year after year, the annual charity bazaar has become a staple in the holiday destination in the Philippines, spreading cheers and smiles among Filipinos! 

This year’s theme is “Shop All The Way”, a fitting theme that reflects the current holiday season and the culture of gift giving. The theme also fits with the World Bazaar Festival and its unlimited options for shoppers to experience and check out the amazing exclusive deals and unique products available. In line with the theme, the World Bazaar Festival is sure to offer options from more than 550 merchants from all over the world! These items range from appliances, pet items, houseware, clothes, food items, toys, fabrics, accessories, and even electronics. Be amazed by lifesized trains, whimsical decorations, and Instagrammable spots that will transport you to Woobie’s Express - a shopping pit stop like no other! 

The opening ceremony, which happened on December 13, 2024, was hosted by TNT Alumna Ana Ramsay. Her energy and extraordinary hosting skills made the opening ceremony very lively for everyone. Mr. Joseph Ang, the founding chairman of WSI, gave his opening speech to officially welcome visitors to the ten long-day festive treats of the World Bazaar Festival. Joining him are Co-founding Chair Ms. Levi Ang, WSI Managing Director Ms. Jill Aithnie Ang, and WSI Financial Director Ms. Michelle Paula Ang-Yu. Gracing the opening ceremony was the Mayor of Pasay City Hon. Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano; the House of Representatives - 2nd District of Laguna Hon. Congresswoman Ruth Hernandez, represented by Ms. Fatima Eleonor A. Villasenor; Secretary of the Department of Agriculture Hon. Fransisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., represented by Dir. Junibert E. De Sagun; and Secretary for the Department of Tourism Hon. Christina Garcia Frasco, represented by Hon. Usec Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar

WSI is thrilled to end the year with a festive bang as the World Bazaar Festival officially opens TODAY until December 22, 2024, from 10 AM to 10 PM at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. It’s time to shop all the way this Christmas season 

You can get your tickets now at www.worldbazaarfestival.com, or visit the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/worldbazaarfestival for more details. 

The World Bazaar Festival is organized by Worldbex Services International and is for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation and is organized by Worldbex Services International.