Anna Magkawas of Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group accepted the “Powerful Woman Award” During Women’s Month Celebration at Makati Shangri-La

In a grand celebration of Women’s Month, TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine honored Anna Magkawas with the prestigious “Powerful Woman Award” for her outstanding contributions to business, leadership, and women’s empowerment. The award was presented by Grace Bondad Nicolas, the first Filipina and woman President of the American Association of the Philippines, during the exclusive event “A Powerful Talk with Loida Nicolas Lewis” at the Shangri-La Hotel, Makati.

The event gathered some of the country’s most respected leaders and trailblazers, including Makati Mayor Abby Binay, His Excellency Malaysia Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, DOT Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin, Senator Robin Padilla, Tessa Prieto, Becky Garcia, Cory Quirino, Mildred Vitangcol, and Andria Terese Nicolas, who had the honor of introducing keynote speaker Loida Nicolas Lewis.

A Visionary in Business and Empowerment

Anna Magkawas, a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO of Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group, has built an empire that has not only elevated luxury fashion in the Philippines but also empowered women to dream big and succeed in business. Her dedication to excellence, innovation, and uplifting Filipina entrepreneurs has made her a role model for aspiring businesswomen.

Alongside Loida Nicolas Lewis, Becky Garcia, and Tessa Prieto, Magkawas was recognized as one of the “Powerful Women in the Philippines”, an award given to women who have made a significant impact in their respective fields.

Celebrating Women’s Leadership and Impact

The event was a powerful testament to the influence of women in shaping industries and communities. As honorees shared their experiences, attendees were inspired by stories of resilience, leadership, and empowerment, reinforcing the importance of women taking charge and making a difference.

With TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine leading the charge in recognizing and celebrating powerful women, the event set the tone for future initiatives that will continue to uplift and honor female leaders who are changing the world.

Loida Nicolas Lewis Honored as a “Powerful Woman” by TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine

In a momentous celebration of Women’s Month, TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine proudly recognized Loida Nicolas Lewis with the “Powerful Women Award” for her remarkable achievements and influence in business, philanthropy, and advocacy. The prestigious award was presented by Grace Bondad Nicolas, the first Filipina and woman President of the American Association of the Philippines, during the highly anticipated event “A Powerful Talk with Loida Nicolas Lewis” at the Shangri-La Hotel, Makati.

The event was attended by some of the country’s most influential personalities, including Makati Mayor Abby Binay, His Excellency Malaysia Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, DOT Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin, Senator Robin Padilla, Anna Magkawas, Tessa Prieto, Becky Garcia, Cory Quirino, Mildred Vitangcol, and Andria Terese Nicolas, who had the honor of introducing Loida Nicolas Lewis.

Alongside Lewis, Becky Garcia, Tessa Prieto, and Anna Magkawas were also honored with the “Powerful Women in the Philippines” Award, recognizing their impact and contributions to society.

A Legacy of Leadership and Empowerment

Loida Nicolas Lewis, a trailblazing businesswoman, legal expert, and advocate for good governance, has made history multiple times. She is the first Filipina and Asian woman to pass the New York Bar Exam without studying law in the U.S. and later became the first Filipina and Asian woman CEO of a Fortune 500 company, TLC Beatrice International, after the untimely passing of her husband, Wall Street financier Reginald F. Lewis.

She is also a celebrated author, activist, and philanthropist, co-founding the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and winning a landmark discrimination case that led to the integration of the U.S. Immigration Services. In 2024, President Joe Biden nominated her to the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), and in recognition of her contributions, the State of New York proclaimed December 20, 2024, as Loida Nicolas Lewis Day.

An Inspiring Night of Women’s Empowerment

During her talk, Loida Nicolas Lewis shared powerful insights on resilience, leadership, and integrity, inspiring the audience to break barriers, uplift communities, and lead with purpose. The event served as a reminder of the strength and influence of women in leadership, creating a space for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration.

With TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine at the forefront of celebrating excellence, this gathering set the stage for future conversations honoring the powerful women shaping the world today.

Grace Bondad Nicolas hosted a welcome dinner for Loida Nicolas Lewis and in celebration of Women’s Month

In a grand celebration of leadership and empowerment, TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine proudly hosted “A Powerful Talk with Loida Nicolas Lewis” at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel, Makati. The event, held in honor of Women’s Month, brought together some of the country’s most influential figures to celebrate the remarkable journey and wisdom of Loida Nicolas Lewis, a trailblazer in business, philanthropy, and advocacy.

The evening was graced by the presence of Grace Bondad Nicolas, President and Co-Owner of Rising Tigers, TopNewsAsia and InCharge Magazines, who warmly welcomed the esteemed guests. The event was attended by prominent personalities, including Makati Mayor Abby Binay, His Excellency Malaysia Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, DOT Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin, Senator Robin Padilla, Anna Magkawas, Tessa Prieto, Becky Garcia, Cory Quirino, Mildred Vitangcol, and Andria Terese Nicolas, who had the honor of introducing Loida Nicolas Lewis.

Grace Bondad Nicolas, the first Woman and Filipina President also of American Association of the Philippines,  turnover also trophies to Loida Nicolas Lewis, Becky Garcia, Tessa Prieto and Anna Magkawas as “Powerful Women in the Philippines” Award for their influence and impact in the society. 

As a pioneering businesswoman and former Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice International, Loida Nicolas Lewis shared her inspiring journey of resilience, integrity, and leadership. She emphasized the significance of women’s empowerment, education, and perseverance in breaking barriers and creating a lasting impact in society.

The event was a powerful reminder of the strength of women in leadership and their role in shaping the future. With an audience of influential leaders and changemakers, it was an evening of insightful discussions, meaningful connections, and a collective commitment to championing women’s excellence and success.

With TopNewsAsia, Rising Tigers Magazine, and InCharge Magazine leading the way, this gathering set the stage for more transformative conversations, celebrating the power of women in making a difference in the world.

About Loida Nicolas Lewis

* The first Filipina and Asian woman in the USA to pass the New York bar without having studied law in the United States 

* The widow of Reginald F. Lewis, Wall Street financier and the first African American billion dollar dealmaker

* The first Filipina and Asian woman CEO in the USA to run a billion dollar empire/ Fortune 500 company, TLC Beatrice International, after her husband’s untimely death

* Author of “Why Should Guys Have All The Fun? An Asian American Story of Love, Marriage, Motherhood and Running A Billion Dollar Empire”

* Integrated the US Immigration Services when she won her discrimination case and was appointed as General Attorney in 1978

* Co-author of “How To Get a Green Card”

* Co-founder of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), the largest national affiliation of Filipino American institutions

* Nominated by President Joe Biden for the Board of Directors of the Millenium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in November 2024

* The State of New York proclaimed Dec. 20, 2024 as Loida Nicolas Lewis Day

* One of the most influential Asian American leaders; activist and advocate for good governance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grace Bondad Nicolas: The Powerhouse Entrepreneur and Media Visionary

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

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

A Leader in Business and Construction

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

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

Shaping the Media and Public Relations Landscape

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

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

✔ Laguna Blogging Summit

✔ Asia Digital Marketing Expo

✔ Asia E-Commerce Expo

✔ Asia Leaders Forum Series

✔ Asia HR Expo

✔ Asia Leaders Awards

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

Rising Tigers and a Media Empire

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

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

A Passion for Civic Leadership

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

✔ Vice President of Makati Tourism Foundation

✔ First Woman President of the American Association of the Philippines

✔ President of PCCI-Los Baños

✔ Past Lieutenant Governor of Kiwanis Philippine Luzon District

✔ Member of the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce & Industry

✔ Member of the Philippine Korea Economic Council

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

A Trailblazer Recognized for Excellence

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

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

✔ Aliw Awards: Excellence Award (December 2023)

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

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

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

✔ Aliw Awards: Excellence Award for Entrepreneurship 2024

The Legacy of Grace Bondad Nicolas

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

All businesses are are invited to register HERE 

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

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

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

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

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

About the Editor-in-Chief 

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

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