Kapihan sa Makati: A New Platform for National Dialogue by Philippine Information Agency and TopNewsAsia

Kapihan sa Makati  mark a significant collaboration between TopNewsAsia and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), bringing together key leaders and media personalities for insightful discussions on national issues and attended by esteemed media like TV5, PTV, IBC13, GMA, Bilyonaryo, Manila Standard and UNTV among others. 

Hosts are the Regional Director Emver Cortez of PIA and Andria Terese Nicolas, VP of TAG Media Group and Chief Marketing Officer & Writer of TopNewsAsia, the program aims to be a premier platform for conversations on governance, public affairs, and socio-economic developments in the Philippines.

A Conversation with a Nation Builder

The first episode with a special guest, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, shared his insights on the country’s electoral system, the role of technology in elections, and the importance of voter education. His presence underscored the program’s commitment to delivering relevant and timely discussions that shape the nation.

A Platform for Thought Leadership

Kapihan sa Makati is more than just a talk show—it is a movement that brings together leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss pressing national issues. With its engaging format and esteemed guests, the show is poised to become a key venue for informed discourse and nation-building efforts.

Stay tuned for more as Kapihan sa Makati continues to feature influential voices and thought leaders, fostering meaningful discussions that contribute to a stronger and more informed Philippines.

Contact 09778978877, president@topnewsasia.asia 

#TopNewsAsia #NationBuilders

George Erwin M. Garcia: Steering the Future of Philippine Elections as COMELEC Chairman

George Erwin Mojica Garcia, appointed as the Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in the Philippines, has embarked on a mission to modernize and enhance the electoral process. His tenure is marked by a series of reforms and projects aimed at ensuring transparent, inclusive, and efficient elections. This comprehensive overview delves into Chairman Garcia’s initiatives, his strategic vision for the electoral system, and the impact of his leadership on Philippine democracy.

Early Initiatives and Reforms

1. Implementation of New Vote Counting Machines (VCMs)

One of Chairman Garcia’s significant undertakings is the procurement and deployment of advanced vote counting machines. These new VCMs are designed to enhance transparency and accuracy in the voting process. A notable feature includes a 14-inch viewing screen that allows voters and stakeholders to verify that ballots are accurately counted. This initiative aims to deter electoral malpractices, such as vote-buying, by providing real-time verification of votes cast.  

2. Addressing Premature Campaigning

Under Garcia’s leadership, COMELEC has taken a firm stance against premature campaigning. The commission now considers individuals who file their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) as official candidates from the moment of filing, thereby subjecting them to existing campaign regulations. This policy shift seeks to level the playing field by preventing affluent candidates from exploiting the period between COC filing and the official campaign season to gain undue advantage.  

3. Enhancing Accessibility for Vulnerable Sectors

Chairman Garcia has prioritized making the electoral process more accessible to marginalized groups, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and heavily pregnant women. COMELEC has introduced special polling precincts that operate from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. on election day, exclusively serving these sectors. This initiative ensures that vulnerable voters can participate in elections comfortably and safely, without the challenges posed by large crowds and long waiting times.  

4. Support for Electoral Board Members

Recognizing the critical role of teachers and other electoral board members, Garcia has advocated for increased honoraria to compensate for their extended hours and responsibilities during elections. Discussions with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) have led to proposals for an additional ₱2,000 across-the-board honoraria for these individuals, reflecting COMELEC’s commitment to valuing their contributions.  

Technological Advancements and Transparency

1. Digital Access to Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs)

In a move towards greater transparency, COMELEC, under Garcia’s direction, has committed to uploading digital copies of SOCEs immediately after elections. This measure allows the public and media to scrutinize campaign finances promptly, promoting accountability among candidates and political parties. The digitalization of these documents also streamlines the monitoring process, making it more efficient and accessible.  

2. Introduction of Online Voting for Overseas Voters

To increase electoral participation among Filipinos abroad, COMELEC has initiated online voting systems for overseas voters. This innovation addresses previous challenges faced by overseas voters, such as accessibility to polling stations, and aims to boost voter turnout in this demographic. The online platform ensures a secure and user-friendly experience, reflecting Garcia’s vision of integrating technology to uphold democratic processes.

3. Utilization of Malls as Voting Precincts

Building on successful pilot tests during previous elections, COMELEC has expanded the use of malls as voting precincts. This strategy offers voters a convenient and comfortable environment, potentially increasing voter turnout. Malls provide accessible locations with adequate facilities, ensuring a smoother voting experience, especially in urban areas. This initiative exemplifies Garcia’s commitment to making voting more accessible and efficient for all citizens.

Community Engagement and Voter Registration

1. Special Satellite Registration Programs

Chairman Garcia has actively promoted voter registration through special satellite programs targeting vulnerable sectors. These initiatives, conducted in various locations, aim to register indigenous peoples, women, youth, senior citizens, PWDs, and persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). By bringing registration services closer to these communities, COMELEC ensures broader electoral participation and inclusivity.  

2. Register Anywhere Program (RAP)

To further simplify the registration process, Garcia introduced the Register Anywhere Program. This program allows citizens to register to vote regardless of their current location, eliminating the need to travel to their home 

Three-way deadlock for first place in the latest Tangere 2025 Senatorial Preferential Survey; FPRRD’s Arrest improved PDP-Laban’s chances of making the Senate.

 

Date: March 17, 2025

Manila, Philippines — 

The latest 2025 Pre-Election Senatorial Preferential Survey conducted by Tangere in the eve of the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, concluded with a three-way statistical tie between brothers Media Executive Ben 'Bitag' Tulfo and ACT-CIS Representative Erwin Tulfo, and Senator Bong Go, who each garnered 54% voter preference. Ben 'Bitag' Tulfo ranked highest in the overall ranking with a 54.63% voter preference, driven by voters from Metro Manila and Visayas. ACT-CIS representative Erwin Tulfo ranked third (53.50% voter preference) driven by voters from Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, and Southern Luzon. Ben 'Bitag' Tulfo was more popular with voters aged 18-25 years old, while Rep. Erwin Tulfo was favored by older respondents. Ranking second overall will be incumbent senator, Senator Bong Go with a 54% voter preference, a notable increase from the previous month’s survey. Senator Go led all candidates in terms of voter preference in Mindanao.

Effect of PRRD Arrest – PDP Laban Candidates

A notable increase for the following candidates and guests from PDP-Laban was recorded for February. This can be attributed to the rise in support for the embattled former president:

Senator Bong Go (Ranked 1-3) from 51.25% to 54.00%;

Senator Bato Dela Rosa (Ranked 7-13) from 36.54% to 37.29%;

Actor Philip Salvador (Ranked 19-20) from 21.92% to 22.67%;

Cong. Rodante Marcoleta (Ranked 21-23) from 19.12% to 19.83%;

Atty. Jimmy Bondoc (Ranked 21-23) from 17.63% to 18.13%;

Atty. Vic Rodriguez (Ranked 26-27) from 6.63% to 10.42%

No notable movement were recorded for Sec. Raul Lambino, Pastor Quiboloy, and Jesus Hinlo, Jr.

Effect of PRRD Arrest – Admin Candidates

No notable movement were recorded for the following candidates:

Former Senator Tito Sotto continued to rank fourth with a 47.67% voter preference;

Senator Bong Revilla and Senator Pia Cayetano remained statistically tied at 5-6 with 42% voter preference each;

Former DILG Secretary Ben Abalos ranked seventh overall with a 37.54% voter preference. He is statistically tied with other admin candidates for 7-13 , Senator Lito Lapid (37.00%),  Senator Manny Pacquiao (36.92%) , and Senator Ping Lacson (36.29%);

A notable increase for the following candidates was recorded:

Senator Ping Lacson (Ranked 7-13) from 33.33% to 36.29%;

Makati Mayor Abigail Binay (Ranked 13-16) from 30.42% to 33.88%;

Camille Villar (Ranked 14-16) from 29.38% to 32.04%.

Only the following candidates from the administration lineup recorded a decrease in voter preference :

Senator Imee Marcos (Ranked 17-18) from 29.04% to 27.13%;

Senator Francis Tolentino (Ranked 17-18) from 28.04% to 27.04%. 

FPRRD ICC Arrest

According to Tangere's latest public opinion poll, a strong majority, exceeding three out of four are against the Marcos Administration’s cooperation with Interpol in arresting Former President Rodrigo Duterte Based on the ICC Warrant .  Respondents from Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, Mindanao, and Visayas are the key demographics driving the agreement. Opposition to the agreement is largely concentrated among 36 to 50 year-old respondents from Metro Manila and Northern Luzon,. The vast majority of respondents, specifically 73%, said that the arrest will cause a national rift within the country. A significant two-thirds of those who trusted the Marcos Administration lost their trust after the arrest of the former president,

In response to the question if this will have an effect on their voter preference this coming May 2025 Mid-Term Elections, More than a substantial portion of voters, specifically 85%, mentioned that this will play a significant role in their selection process during the upcoming midterm elections. 

----------------------------

The non-commissioned survey, conducted March 11-14, 2025, was administered via a mobile-based respondent application with a sample size of 2,400 participants (+/- 1.96% Margin of Error at a 95% Confidence Level) using a Stratified Random Sampling method (Quota Based Sampling). The proportion was spread throughout the Philippines with 12 percent from NCR, 23 percent from Northern Luzon, 22 percent from Southern Luzon, 20 percent from Visayas, and 23 percent from Mindanao.

Tangere is an award-winning technology application and innovation-driven market research company that aims to capture Filipino sentiments. Tangere is a proud member of the Marketing and Opinion Research Society of the Philippines (MORES) and the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA). Tangere was among the initial companies to register with the COMELC.

For the topline report and analytics for this non-commissioned study, please email Tangere at qual@tangereapp.com.

TopNewsAsia and Philippine Information Agency Present "Kapihan sa Makati" Featuring Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia

 Makati City, Philippines - March 13, 2025- TopNewsAsia, in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), proudly presents "kapihan sa Makati", an exclusive media forum featuring esteemed hosts Andria Nicolas and Emver Cortez, with a special appearance by Chairman George Erwin M  Garcia of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

This highly anticipated event will take place on March 13, 2025, at The E-Hotel Makati, Kicking off with a breakfast gathering at 8:00 AM, followed by an in-depth interview session from 9:AM to 10:AM.

"kapihan sa Makati" is a Premier Forum under TopNewsAsia that fosters insightful discussions on national issues, governance, and public affairs. It serves as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations that inform and empower the public. Each session brings together representatives from various sectors to tackle pressing topics that shape the nation's future, promoting transparency, accountability and civic engagement.

Members of the press and invited guests are encouraged to participate in this exclusive dialogue, aimed at fostering transparency public awareness, and informed citizen engagement.

Harvard WorldMun Run 2025 First Fundraising Event

MANILA, March 9, 2025 - Harvard WorldMun Manila organized a tournament in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard and co-presented by Rising Tigers Magazine, and sponsored by Oh My Chicken!, FPJ Panday Bayanihan Partylist, RedBull Philippines, When in Manila, Dolce Philippines, Milky Mangoes Milkshake, Healthy Bites and Topside Dines. The fun run set a milestone for the Harvard WorldMUN Manila Team and the Filipino community as this is the first fundraising event before the WorldMun Conference. The Harvard Manila Team launched the event with the initiative to promote inclusivity, resilience, and empathy, giving runners the option to run with their Pets (Pet Run), and having the Youth Deaf Community in the Philippines as beneficiaries.

The event started with opening remarks of the President of HarvardWorldMUN Manila Tyler Javier, the guest of Honor is RADM Hostillo Arturo Cornelio PCG. For the presentation of the Awards, presenters are PO1 Nesthy Petecio, Rising Tigers CMO Andria Terese Nicolas and RADM Hostillo Arturo Cornelio PCG.

The Harvard WorldMun Run is more than just a fundraising event—it’s an experience that unites people for a greater purpose, making a meaningful impact on both personal and societal levels.

#risingtigers #nationbuilders

Belmonte vows to further beef up programs, initiatives for women

In celebration of International Women’s Day and National Women’s Month, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte vowed to further strengthen programs and initiatives that empower women and provide opportunities for their growth and success.

During her State of the Women’s Address (SOWA), Belmonte highlighted the fruits of the city government’s sustained efforts to create inclusive opportunities for women across various sectors through economic empowerment, education, and health, among others.

“Our women are now more financially capable and independent. Ayon sa ating online business registry, tumaas ng higit apat na libo ang bilang ng mga babaeng may negosyo sa ating lungsod kung ikukumpara noong 2021,” Belmonte said.

“Ngayon, sa pitumpung libong negosyo sa lungsod, kwarenta porsyento (40%) ang pinamumunuan ng mga babaeng negosyante na nagbibigay ng hanapbuhay sa mahigit dalawang daang libong babaeng QCitizen,” she added.

Beneficiaries of various livelihood initiatives and assistance such as Pangkabuhayang QC, POP QC, Tindahan ni Ate Joy, SIGA and SIGAP have seen a significant increase, from 11,000 in 2023 to more than 14,000 last year.

Through the efforts of the QC Public Employment Service Office, Belmonte said the city government has provided more than 31,000 jobs to women, allowing them to earn for their family’s needs.

As part of her belief that education is the great equalizer, Belmonte stressed that the city government continues to expand educational opportunities for female students through various programs.

“Sa pagdami ng mga kurso sa ating Quezon City University, tumataas din ang bilang ng mga mag-aaral. Out of more than 3,000 graduates last year, 63 percent were female and now are fully equipped to join the country’s workforce,” the Mayor explained.

“Idagdag pa natin ang mga hinuhubog nating mga babaeng mag-aaral sa mga pampublikong elementarya at sekondarya na nasa mahigit 204,000, o 48 percent ng kabuuang student population sa elementarya hanggang grade 12,” she added.

From 2019 to 2024, Belmonte said the city government has supported more than 39,000 scholars from senior high school to post-graduate studies, with 64 percent of them being women.

To tackle the significant health challenges faced by women, Belmonte emphasized the city government's commitment to addressing the leading causes of death among women—hypertension, pneumonia, and diabetes—through free medical check-ups, provision of maintenance medicines, administration of pneumococcal vaccines, and promotion of nutrition education in health centers.

“Bukod dito, tayo rin ang kauna-unahang lokal na pamahalaan na nagpasa ng Integrated Cancer Control Ordinance, na naglalayong ipatupad ang whole-of-society approach sa pagtugon sa lahat ng uri ng cancer,” she pointed out.

Belmonte likewise vowed to step up efforts by the city government to address Violence Against Women (VAW) cases through information dissemination, and promotion of Helpline 122 to encourage women to report abuse cases.

Belmonte expressed alarm that the cases of VAW increased from around 7,000 in 2022 to more than 10,000 in 2024, more than 4,000 of which reported suffering from psychological abuse.

While the city government has made significant progress in advancing women's rights and welfare, Belmonte emphasized that there is still much work to be done as she reiterated her commitment to pursuing equal treatment for women in all endeavors.

“Ang laban para sa gender equality ay hindi lang laban ng kababaihan—ito ay laban nating lahat. Babae man o lalaki, bata man o matanda, ano man ang kulay o katayuan sa buhay. Sama-sama nating isulong ang isang lungsod kung saan ang bawat babae ay may boses, dignidad, kalayaan, at may pantay na oportunidad upang magtagumpay,” she concluded.

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Tim Yap A Celebrity Par Excellence is in the March Cover of Rising Tigers Magazine as One of the Top 50 Influential People in the Philippines

Tim Yap, the renowned media personality, entrepreneur, and culture curator, takes center stage as the March cover star of Rising Tigers Magazine, representing The Top 50 Influential People in the Philippines. The prestigious event, which recognized the country’s most impactful leaders and changemakers, was held at Manila House Private Club on February 10, 2025.

A Culture Shaper and Industry Leader

For years, Tim Yap has been a driving force in Philippine media, entertainment, and lifestyle, bringing together the worlds of business, culture, and social influence. Known for his innate ability to connect people, promote local artistry, and shape trends, Yap has solidified his place as one of the most respected figures in the industry.

His Rising Tigers cover feature is a testament to his influence in elevating Filipino talent, fostering collaborations, and setting new standards in media and events. Whether through television, social media, or live experiences, Yap continues to redefine what it means to be a modern influencer and entrepreneur.

The Prestigious Top 50 Influential People Event

Held at the Manila House Private Club, the Top 50 Influential People in the Philippines event brought together business leaders, philanthropists, artists, and innovators who are making a significant impact on the country’s growth and development. The event served as a platform to celebrate visionaries who are shaping industries, leading with purpose, and inspiring the next generation.

As a key honoree and now the face of Rising Tigers’ March issue, Yap embodies the essence of influence—not just in terms of reach, but in his ability to inspire positive change. His feature explores his journey, insights on leadership, and vision for the future of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship.

A True Rising Tiger in Philippine Influence

Tim Yap’s inclusion in this prestigious list and his Rising Tigers Magazine cover reinforces his standing as a leader who transcends industries and continues to make waves in media, culture, and business. His story serves as an inspiration for Filipinos who aspire to lead, create, and leave a lasting impact.

With his unwavering passion for innovation and excellence, Yap proves that true influence is about more than just presence—it’s about making a difference.

Here’s to Tim Yap, a true Rising Tiger, shaping the future of Philippine influence!