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.

Comelec's collaboration with TikTok to prevent fake news

In an era where the digital landscape is as influential as the physical, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the Philippines is taking a groundbreaking step to safeguard the sanctity of its electoral process. At a recent press conference, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia announced a significant partnership with TikTok, the global social media powerhouse, marking a pivotal move in the fight against misinformation and disinformation within the digital realm and attended by Ms. Peachy Paderna, Public Policy Manager of TikTok Philippines with Comelec Spokesperson Atty. John Rex Laudiangco.  

Amidst a backdrop of challenges and controversies facing Comelec, Chairman Garcia heralded this collaboration as a "breath of life" for the commission. The initiative is seen as a beacon of hope in combating fake news, especially in the lead-up to the crucial 2025 elections. This partnership underscores a mutual commitment to ensuring that voters receive accurate information, thereby protecting not only candidates and political parties but, most importantly, the electorate at large.

The genesis of this partnership was a series of discussions between Comelec officials and TikTok's top leadership in the Philippines, focusing on the pervasive issue of misinformation. TikTok's ability to rapidly verify content and distinguish between genuine and fake news stood out as a critical asset in these talks. The platform's proactive approach and technological capabilities offer an unprecedented opportunity for Comelec to leverage this digital tool at no additional cost.

This collaboration is not just about utilizing TikTok's verification mechanisms but also about embracing social media's role in modern campaigning. Recognizing that future electoral battles will increasingly be fought online, Chairman Garcia sees this partnership as essential for ensuring fair play in the digital arena. The goal is clear: to eliminate "the undesirables" from social media discourse, particularly those spreading falsehoods that could undermine electoral integrity.

As we look towards 2025 and beyond, this initiative between Comelec and TikTok represents more than just a tactical alliance; it signifies a strategic shift towards embracing digital solutions in safeguarding democracy. By addressing misinformation head-on, Comelec is setting a precedent for other electoral bodies worldwide to follow.

Chairman Garcia's announcement has been met with widespread approval from various stakeholders who see this as a vital step forward in ensuring that voters are informed, engaged, and protected from misinformation. As we inch closer to another election cycle, this partnership stands as a testament to Comelec's commitment to upholding electoral integrity in every arena—be it physical or digital.

In conclusion, this innovative alliance between Comelec and TikTok paves the way for a more informed electorate and a cleaner electoral process. It is a bold move towards redefining how election integrity is maintained in the age of social media—a move that could very well shape the future of democratic processes not only in the Philippines but around the globe.

Chairman George Erwin Garcia demonstrated "Mock Election Exercise"

In an unprecedented move to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the upcoming 2025 elections, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia spearheaded a comprehensive mock election exercise across the nation. This proactive approach marks a significant milestone in the Philippines' electoral process, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to democracy.

The mock elections, a first of its kind under Chairman Garcia's leadership, were meticulously designed to test and refine every aspect of the voting process. From the remote barangays to the bustling cities, over 100 transmissions were successfully sent from precincts to municipal and city canvassing centers, then onto the central server. But it didn't stop there; these results were also transmitted to various critical nodes including PPCRV (Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting) computers, NAMFREL (National Movement for Free Elections) servers, media outlets, as well as majority and minority political party servers, before finally reaching the central and backup servers.

Chairman Garcia's vision was clear: to ensure that every Filipino voter's voice is heard accurately and securely. "Our goal is not just to conduct elections but to ensure that these elections are credible, transparent, and inclusive," stated Garcia in a press briefing following the mock elections.

The exercise was not just about testing technical capabilities but also about building trust with the electorate and among political stakeholders. By involving entities like PPCRV and NAMFREL, COMELEC showcased its commitment to transparency and impartiality. The transmission of results to party servers also emphasized a dedication to fairness, allowing all parties immediate access to vote counts.

Moreover, this ambitious project tackled logistical challenges head-on. The successful transmission of 100 results from Municipal Board of Canvassers (MBOCs) to Provincial Board of Canvassers (PBOCs), and another 100 from PBOCs to the National Board of Canvassers underscored COMELEC's readiness for next year's electoral marathon. 

This initiative has set a new benchmark for election preparedness in the Philippines. It reflects a significant leap forward in addressing past criticisms related to election management. "What we've accomplished today is just the beginning. We will continue refining our systems and processes based on what we've learned," assured Chairman Garcia.

The mock elections have indeed been a revelation. They have shown that with diligent preparation, robust technology, and collaborative efforts across all sectors of society, the Philippines is well on its way to conducting one of its most transparent and efficient elections in history.

As Filipinos look forward to casting their votes next year, they can take comfort in knowing that COMELEC, under Chairman George Erwin Garcia's stewardship, is leaving no stone unturned in safeguarding their electoral rights. It's a testament to democracy in action—a beacon of hope for fairer, cleaner elections in the Philippines and beyond.

Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat for your unwavering faith in our democratic process!

---

Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia of the Commission on Elections ensures Field Personnel for National and Local Elections to be well trained

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) gears up for the upcoming National and Local Elections (NLE) by initiating a series of comprehensive training programs for its field personnel. Chairman George Erwin Garcia recently announced the schedule of the NLE trainings, emphasizing the critical role they play in ensuring the smooth and efficient conduct of the elections.

The NLE trainings, commencing on January 27 and extending until May, are designed to equip field officials with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively carry out their duties. The first phase of the training, set to take place at Diamond Hotel, will focus on Training of Trainers, with subsequent sessions dedicated to various aspects such as deployment, finance, contingency planning, and the utilization of essential materials and peripherals.

Chairman Garcia emphasized the significance of these face-to-face briefings, highlighting that this would be the final opportunity to provide comprehensive training before the elections. The trainings will also extend to certifiers from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), encompassing vital areas such as Geographic Information (GI) operations and the Automated Centralized Canvassing and Consolidation System (ACMCCS).

The training schedule outlined by Chairman Garcia paints a clear picture of the meticulous preparations being undertaken by Comelec. The upcoming months will witness a flurry of activities aimed at preparing field personnel for their roles in the electoral process. From Training of Trainers phases to specialized sessions for DOST certifiers and various stakeholders, the comprehensive training program reflects Comelec's commitment to ensuring a well-prepared and capable workforce for the upcoming elections.

As highlighted by Chairman Garcia, the NLE trainings will cover a wide array of topics, including technical support, certification processes for electoral boards, engagement with vulnerable sectors such as persons deprived of liberty (PDL), indigenous peoples (IP), and persons with disabilities (PWD), as well as specialized training for law enforcement agencies.

The meticulous planning and execution of these training programs underscore Comelec's dedication to upholding the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. By equipping field personnel with the necessary expertise and knowledge, Comelec aims to ensure that the NLE is conducted with utmost professionalism and adherence to established protocols.

With a busy schedule ahead, encompassing multiple phases of training leading up to the elections in May, Comelec remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a well-prepared and capable workforce. The comprehensive NLE trainings stand as a testament to the dedication of Comelec in ensuring that its staff is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. These trainings encompass a wide range of areas, including voter education, technology utilization, and election administration, all aimed at preparing the workforce for the upcoming elections in May.