A Celebration of Women Disruptor in the International Women's Day 2025

This International Women’s Day, we honor women in charge—leaders, trailblazers, and game-changers who are shaping industries, inspiring communities, and paving the way for future generations. This March, Loida Nicolas Lewis, Anna Magkawas, and Andria Terese Nicolas take center stage in prestigious magazine covers, leadership forums, and influential events, culminating in the launch of “100 Women In Charge” under InCharge Magazine on March 31, 2025, at Shangri-La Hotel Makati.

Adding to this historic celebration, these exceptional women will also be featured in a special coffee table book, highlighting their contributions and the impact of women in leadership across industries.

Loida Nicolas Lewis on the Cover of TopNewsAsia: A Visionary in Business and Advocacy

Loida Nicolas Lewis, a Filipino-American business leader, philanthropist, and advocate, graces the March cover of TopNewsAsia. As the first Asian woman to lead a billion-dollar U.S. company, she continues to be a symbol of resilience, excellence, and women’s empowerment.

Beyond her corporate success, Lewis remains a champion for education, social justice, and immigrant rights, proving that leadership is not just about business—it is about uplifting communities and creating opportunities for others. Her TopNewsAsia cover feature is a tribute to her remarkable journey and enduring legacy.

Anna Magkawas on the Cover of Rising Tigers Magazine: A Beauty Mogul Empowering Women

Anna Magkawas, the dynamic CEO and Founder of Luxe Beauty & Wellness Group, is the cover star of the Special Women’s Issue of Rising Tigers Magazine. As a self-made entrepreneur, Magkawas has built a multimillion-dollar empire, redefining beauty, self-care, and financial independence for Filipinas.

Her Rising Tigers feature celebrates her journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the country’s most influential women in business, proving that determination and vision can turn dreams into reality.

Andria Terese Nicolas: A Young Leader Shaping Conversations

Andria Terese Nicolas, a writer, entrepreneur, and youth advocate, is making her mark as a moderator and host at major industry events this March.

* Moderator at the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Women’s Event (Dusit Thani Hotel Manila)

Nicolas will lead a thought-provoking discussion on women’s leadership, innovation, and economic impact, bringing together top female executives and business leaders.

* Host of “Kapihan sa Makati” by TopNewsAsia (March 12, The E Hotel)

Nicolas will also serve as one of the hosts of “Kapihan sa Makati,” a prestigious forum featuring Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Garcia as the keynote speaker. She will co-host the event alongside Emver Cortez, the Regional Director of the Philippine Information Agency (NCR). This event will tackle key national issues while also recognizing women’s growing influence in leadership and governance.

The Grand Launch of “100 Women In Charge” on March 31, 2025

The month-long celebration will culminate with the highly anticipated launch of “100 Women In Charge” under InCharge Magazine at Shangri-La Hotel Makati. This initiative will honor 100 remarkable women leaders, recognizing their contributions in business, media, governance, and advocacy.

The event will feature:

✅ Inspirational keynote speeches

✅ Empowering panel discussions

✅ A gathering of women changemakers from various industries

✅ The unveiling of a special coffee table book featuring these influential women

A Future Led by Women in Charge

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the power and influence of women like Loida Nicolas Lewis, Anna Magkawas, and Andria Terese Nicolas, who are leading with purpose and inspiring the next generation.

With their magazine covers, leadership roles, and advocacy efforts, along with the launch of “100 Women In Charge”, they prove that women are shaping the future—not just for themselves, but for the world.

Here’s to women in charge, leading the way forward!

Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia: Warrants a Fair and Transparent Elections

With the May 2025 elections fast approaching, all eyes are on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as it ensures a smooth, credible, and transparent electoral process. At the forefront of this mission is Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia, a respected legal expert and public servant committed to strengthening democratic processes in the Philippines.

Chairman Garcia’s leadership is pivotal in addressing key electoral concerns, from enhancing the automated election system and implementing security measures to combating misinformation and increasing voter participation. His proactive stance in improving voter education and ensuring the integrity of the election process reflects Comelec’s commitment to upholding democracy.

As part of his efforts to keep the public informed, Chairman Garcia will headline the first-ever Kapihan sa Makati, organized by TopNewsAsia, on March 13, 2025, at The E Hotel Makati. This landmark event provides a timely and essential platform for open dialogue, where journalists, policymakers, and stakeholders can directly engage with the Comelec chief.

The Kapihan, hosted by PIA Regional Director Emver Cortez and TopNewsAsia writer Andria Terese Bondad Nicolas, will tackle pressing election-related issues, including voter registration progress, electoral security, advancements in automation, and strategies to combat election-related disinformation.

This initiative by TopNewsAsia reinforces the vital role of media in fostering transparency and accountability in the electoral process. As the first of many Kapihan forums, it sets the stage for meaningful discussions that shape public awareness and policy direction.

With Chairman Garcia at the helm, the May 2025 elections are poised to be more transparent, inclusive, and secure. The upcoming Kapihan sa Makati is a significant step in keeping the public informed and engaged in the democratic process—an essential ingredient for a stronger, more participatory democracy.

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.