Leadership and Innovation Featured at the Magazine Signing

On March 5, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, readers, supporters, and aspiring leaders gathered at National Bookstore SM Sta. Mesa for the first magazine signing event of the year by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine, led by publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas.

The event highlighted two inspiring personalities whose stories represent leadership and innovation in today’s evolving society. The current cover of TopNewsAsia features Brian Poe Llamanzares, Congressman of FPJ Panday Bayanihan, while the special maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine features young CEO Grace Santiago of Lync Solutions, released in celebration of Women’s Month.

More than 120 attendees joined the exclusive meet-and-greet and magazine signing, creating a rare opportunity for readers to personally interact with the featured leaders whose stories they read about in print. Beyond the autograph session, guests were treated to an insightful discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Literacy, where both Llamanzares and Santiago shared perspectives on how technology is shaping governance, entrepreneurship, and the future workforce.

The magazine signing experience offered several unique advantages. First, it bridged the gap between readers and leaders, transforming magazine features into meaningful personal encounters. Attendees had the chance to ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain deeper insights directly from the personalities featured in the publications. Second, the discussion provided educational value, especially for young professionals and students interested in understanding the impact of artificial intelligence and the importance of digital literacy in today’s rapidly evolving world. Finally, the event strengthened the role of print media as a platform not only for storytelling but also for community engagement and leadership inspiration.

The objective of the gathering was clear: to create a space where journalism, leadership, and public interaction meet. Through this initiative, TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine aim to elevate conversations that matter, highlight leaders making a difference, and inspire readers to become more informed, empowered, and engaged citizens.

Publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas expressed her gratitude to National Bookstore for its continued partnership and support in promoting print media and thought leadership.

As the first magazine signing event of the year, the gathering set the tone for more interactive experiences where stories printed on pages come to life through conversations, connections, and inspiration.

Bridging Nations Through Media: Indonesian Trade Attaché Joins TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine Event

On March 5, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, readers, supporters, and aspiring leaders gathered at National Bookstore for the first magazine signing event of the year hosted by TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine, led by publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas.

Adding significance to the occasion was the presence and support of the newly appointed Trade Attaché of the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines, Rahayu Ningsih, whose participation highlighted the growing relationship between media, diplomacy, and cross-cultural collaboration.

The event featured two inspiring personalities whose stories represent leadership and innovation in today’s evolving society. The current cover of TopNewsAsia features Brian Poe Llamanzares, Congressman of FPJ Panday Bayanihan, while the maiden issue of Leading Women Magazine highlights young CEO Grace Santiago of Lync Solutions, released in celebration of National Women’s Month.

More than 120 attendees participated in the exclusive meet-and-greet and magazine signing, creating a rare opportunity for readers to personally interact with the leaders whose stories they read about in print. What made the event even more meaningful was the insightful discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Literacy, where Llamanzares and Santiago shared their perspectives on how technology is transforming governance, entrepreneurship, and the future workforce.

The importance of a magazine signing goes far beyond autographs. It transforms journalism into a living conversation. For readers, it is an opportunity to engage directly with the people behind the headlines and cover stories. For the featured personalities, it becomes a platform to expand ideas, inspire dialogue, and connect with communities that believe in their vision.

Events like this also reaffirm the continuing relevance of print media. In an era dominated by digital platforms, a magazine signing reminds audiences that printed stories carry depth, credibility, and permanence. When readers hold a magazine and meet the leaders featured in its pages, the experience becomes both personal and memorable.

Another key advantage of the gathering was its educational value. Young professionals, students, and entrepreneurs present during the event gained valuable insights about the growing role of artificial intelligence and the need for stronger digital literacy skills in a rapidly evolving world. These discussions demonstrated how media events can serve not only as celebrations of publication but also as platforms for learning and inspiration.

The objective of the gathering was clear: to create a meaningful space where journalism, leadership, and public engagement intersect. Through initiatives like this, TopNewsAsia and Leading Women Magazine continue to elevate conversations that matter, highlight leaders who make a difference, and encourage readers to become informed, empowered, and inspired members of society.

Publisher Grace Bondad Nicolas expressed her sincere gratitude to National Bookstore for its continued partnership in promoting print media and fostering intellectual exchange through events like these.

As the first magazine signing of the year, the event set the tone for more interactive experiences where stories printed on pages come alive through conversations, connections, and inspiration, reminding everyone that behind every magazine cover is not just a story, but a community ready to listen, learn, and lead.

BIR, BTr, and UnionBank Strengthen Digital Tax Payment System Through UPay Partnership*

 BIR Press Release

February 25, 2026

                                                                                                   

         

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), and UnionBank of the Philippines (UnionBank) formally strengthened their digital partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on February 24, 2026, at UnionBank Plaza, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

The agreement integrates UnionBank’s UPay Facility into the national collection system, providing taxpayers with expanded and more convenient web- and mobile-based channels for the payment of taxes and other government obligations.

The MOA marks a major milestone in the evolution of the ePayment Project, first implemented in 2019, by consolidating previous agreements covering UnionBank’s role as an Authorized Agent Bank for the collection and remittance of National Internal Revenue Taxes and Customs Duties. The partnership aims to further enhance efficiency, transparency, and security in electronic tax payments while ensuring timely remittances and accurate collection records.

In his message, BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza emphasized that the agreement forms part of the Bureau’s continuing modernization efforts to improve taxpayer experience and strengthen revenue administration.

“The UPay Facility provides taxpayers with enhanced web and mobile options to settle their obligations, reducing the need for in-person queues and manual processing,” Commissioner Mendoza said. “Sa madaling salita, pinapadali natin ang pagbabayad ng buwis. And when the process is easier, trust grows and voluntary compliance becomes stronger.”

The Commissioner added that the initiative supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to raise service excellence across government and aligns with the Department of Finance’s economic reform agenda. He noted that under the BIR D.A.R.E.S. reform agenda, the partnership reinforces the Bureau’s pillar on Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement.

UnionBank President and CEO Ana Maria Aboitiz Delgado highlighted the bank’s commitment to providing accessible and secure payment channels that support national development.

“Under this supplemental agreement, UnionBank will continue to provide multiple ways for taxpayers to fulfill their obligations — through over-the-counter payments in our branches, digital banking channels, and UPay leveraging InstaPay, PCHC, PayGate, and other electronic payment rails,” Delgado said.

She added that the partnership enables taxpayers to choose the most convenient payment channels while ensuring that collections are promptly and accurately remitted to the Treasury Single Account of the Bureau of the Treasury, thereby strengthening transparency, accountability, and trust in public finance.

The collaboration, she noted, reflects the shared goal of government and the private sector to make compliance easier, reduce friction in public services, and build resilient, inclusive, and customer-centric systems.

Supporting the modernization initiatives highlighted by Commissioner Mendoza, Treasurer of the Philippines Sharon P. Almanza underscored the importance of digital transformation in strengthening public financial management and improving taxpayer access to government services.

“Today marks another important milestone in our digital transformation journey as we modernize tax payment systems to make them more accessible while strengthening public financial management,” Treasurer Almanza said. “Through this Memorandum of Agreement and the UPay Facility, we are introducing secure, convenient, and cost-effective digital payment solutions that will help accelerate remittances and enhance transparency.”

She noted that the agreement builds on reforms such as the implementation of the Treasury Single Account and the expansion of digital payment channels under the BIR’s ePayment Project, further reinforcing the government’s shared goal of efficient and transparent revenue collection.

Also present during the signing were BIR Deputy Commissioners Larry M. Barcelo and Ma. Rosario Charo G. Enriquez-Curiba; and UnionBank Executive Vice President Mimi C. Concha and Ma. Cecilia Teresa S. Bernad. The officials witnessed the formalization of the partnership and reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing secure, efficient, and accessible digital tax payment solutions. ###

No to Vote-Buying and Premature Campaigning in the March 14,2026 Elections as Reminded by Comelec Chair

As the Commission on Elections intensifies preparations for the March 14, 2026 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, George Erwin Mojica Garcia reaffirmed the poll body’s commitment to efficiency, transparency, and strict enforcement of election laws.

Swift and Careful Ballot Printing

Garcia assured the public that the printing of ballots will proceed without delay.

“Para sa printing ng mga balota para sa March 14 [Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election], kahit tomorrow puwede na nating simulan ’yan. At ’pag sinimulan ’yan bukas, kahit nga by Monday tapos lahat ng balotang gagamitin natin. And of course, ive-verify pa ’yan. Titingnan talaga ’yung mga balota kung maayos, malinis, may smudge, may guhit o dapat ba itong ulitin. Bibigyan natin ng isang buong linggo lang, limang araw lang, tapos na namin.”

The chairman emphasized that beyond speed, quality control remains a top priority. Each ballot will undergo strict verification to ensure accuracy and prevent technical issues on election day.

Strict Warning Against Premature Campaigning

Garcia also issued a firm reminder to candidates to observe election guidelines, particularly because the Antipolo special election will be conducted manually.

“Ang ating pakiusap sa mga tumatakbo, sana ma-observe po nila ang atin pong guidelines lalong-lalo na ito ay manual election, and therefore, bawal ang premature campaigning. Babantayan po namin ’yung mga namimigay d’yan lalo na sa panahon na bawal pang mangampanya, at ’wag na ’wag gagamit ng pera o pondo ng bayan para lamang i-promote ang kandidatura ng bawat isa. Hindi po kami magdadalawang-isip na mag-disqualify. Pinatunayan na po namin ’yan noong mga nakaraan.”

He stressed that COMELEC will not hesitate to disqualify violators, especially those misusing public funds or engaging in vote-buying activities.

Early Voting and Inclusive Elections

For the March 14 polls, COMELEC will once again implement its successful Early Voting Hours.

“Sa araw ng halalan sa Marso 14, 2026, amin pong muling ipatutupad ’yung napaka-successful na Early Voting Hours. Makakaboto po nang mas maaga ’yung mga nakatatanda, may kapansanan, mula 5AM–7AM. Exclusive para sa kanila lang pati na rin ang mga nagdadalang-tao.”

Garcia further underscored inclusivity by coordinating with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to ensure that qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who are registered voters can also cast their votes.

“Meron po kasi tayong mga kababayang nakakulong doon na rehistradong botante ng Ikalawang Distrito ng Antipolo City. At dahil diyan, bilang pakikipagkapwa-tao, pagpapakita na wala dapat maiwan kapag ang pag-uusapan ay halalan, sila rin pong lahat ay pabobotohin natin.”

Resumption of Voter Registration in Bangsamoro

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC will resume voter registration activities.

“Tayo po ay magre-resume na ng registration of voters sa na-suspend nating registration activity sa buong Bangsamoro ngayong darating na Ika-9 ng Pebrero hanggang March 30, 2026. Yan ay bilang resulta ng postponement ng eleksyon sa March 30 d’yan sa Bangsamoro.”

Garcia highlighted the availability of the Register Anywhere Program (RAP) in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns for voters from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao Norte, Maguindanao Sur, and the Special Geographic Area.

“Kung ikaw ay taga-Bangsamoro… puwede po kayong magparehistro na hindi mo na kinakailangang pumunta doon sa probinsya n’yo.”

He also reiterated COMELEC’s position that the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election must remain automated.

“Ang Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election ay ipinaglalaban ng COMELEC na at all cost, ito dapat ay automated election. Napakahirap po, sa amin pong pagtatantiya, ang isang manual na halalan sa Bangsamoro.”

Transparency and Fair Campaigning

In line with transparency, Garcia announced that the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven candidates for the Antipolo special election will be uploaded on COMELEC’s official website.

“Maaaring mailabas ng COMELEC sa aming website ang lahat ng Certificates of Candidacy ng pitong kandidato… ’Yan po ay commitment ng COMELEC na lagi nating ilalagay sa COMELEC website ang COC.”

He also appealed for discipline in campaign conduct and strict adherence to the Anti-Discrimination Resolution.

“Sana rin, ’yung ating mga kandidato… hindi naman tayo nakakaistorbo sa ating mga komunidad, lalo na ’yung paggamit ng mga trompa na pagkalakas-lakas o kaya naman ’yung pag-ikot natin na nakakaistorbo rin sa trapik.”

“Yung ating Anti-Discrimination Resolution, in effect po ’yan. Bawal natin atakihin ang ating mga kandidato below the belt… Pinatunayan na po namin. Ilan na po ’yung na-disqualify namin dahil lang sa violation ng Anti-Discrimination.”

With firm resolve, Chairman Garcia made it clear: COMELEC will uphold clean, orderly, inclusive, and credible elections,  ensuring that no voter is left behind and no violation goes unchecked.

Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates to uphold integrity of the election

In a comprehensive public statement, George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), highlighted the Commission’s readiness, integrity safeguards, and commitment to inclusive and credible elections.

Swift but Careful Ballot Printing

On the printing of ballots for the March 14 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, Chairman Garcia emphasized operational preparedness. He explained that ballot printing could begin immediately and be completed within days. However, speed would never compromise quality.

Every ballot, he assured, will undergo strict verification, checked thoroughly for clarity, cleanliness, smudges, misprints, or defects that would require reprinting. The Commission is prepared to complete the entire process within five working days, demonstrating both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His message was clear: preparedness must be matched by precision.

Zero Tolerance for Premature Campaigning

Chairman Garcia issued a strong reminder to candidates to strictly observe election guidelines, especially since the Antipolo election will be conducted manually. Premature campaigning, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

He warned that COMELEC will closely monitor violations, particularly the distribution of money or goods during prohibited periods. The Commission will not hesitate to disqualify candidates who break the rules,  a stance he noted has already been proven in past enforcement actions.

This firm posture reinforces COMELEC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

Early Voting and Inclusive Participation

On Election Day, March 14, 2026, COMELEC will reimplement its successful Early Voting Hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. These hours are exclusively reserved for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. The initiative reflects the Commission’s continuing effort to make elections more accessible and humane.

Chairman Garcia also confirmed coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow qualified detainees who are registered voters in Antipolo’s 2nd District to cast their votes. He stressed that no eligible Filipino should be left behind when it comes to the right to vote.

Bangsamoro Registration and Modernization Push

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC resumed voter registration from February 9 to March 30, 2026. Through the Register Anywhere Program (RAP), Bangsamoro residents from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area may register in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns without returning to their provinces.

Chairman Garcia strongly advocated for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election to be automated, explaining that conducting a fully manual election in the region would pose serious logistical and operational challenges.

Transparency and Respect in Campaigning

In line with its transparency commitment, COMELEC released online the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven Antipolo candidates, allowing voters to be properly informed about those seeking office.

Chairman Garcia also appealed for respectful campaigning, avoiding excessive noise, traffic disruption, and community disturbance. He reminded candidates that the Anti-Discrimination Resolution remains in effect. Personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, and below-the-belt tactics can lead to disqualification, as demonstrated in previous cases.

A Clear Standard for Elections

Through his message, Chairman Garcia projected a leadership style defined by preparedness, fairness, inclusivity, and strict enforcement of the law. His words serve not only as guidance to candidates but as reassurance to voters: elections will be conducted with order, transparency, and accountability.

For COMELEC under his leadership, democracy is not merely administered, it is actively safeguarded.

DOF and BIR Clarifies Rules for VAT on Local Sales of Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs)*

 *BIR PRESS RELEASE*

_February 23, 2026_

The Department of Finance (DOF) and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Regulations (RR) No. 1-2026, which amends certain provisions of RR No. 9-2025, to clarify the manner of filing and payment for value-added tax (VAT) on local sales, provide optional VAT registration for certain RBEs, extend the deadline for system reconfiguration, and exclude certain enterprises and activities from the coverage of VAT on local sales of RBEs under Section 295(D) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 (Tax Code), as Amended by Section 18 of Republic Act (RA) No. 12066, or more popularly known as the Corporate Recovery and Tax incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act (CREATE MORE Act).

The said revenue issuance was released to address concerns of the external and internal stakeholders in the implementation of VAT on local sales of RBEs that was introduced under the CREATE MORE Act. The most notable changes are as follow:

Clarification on the manner of filing and payment of VAT on local sales of RBEs

For the sale of goods inside the economic zones or freeports classified as business-to-business (B2B) transaction, the filing and payment of the buyer shall be on a per transaction basis. However, it was further clarified that in cases where the shipment of the goods purchased in the economic zones or freeport is in bulk (e.g., delivered through a single container truck) and is covered by several invoices, the buyer may opt to pay the VAT due thereon in a single payment through BIR Form No. 0605, together with the list of all the invoices covered, which shall be presented to the BOC prior to the release of the goods.

Optional VAT Registration

An RBE availing of the 5% Special Corporate Income Tax (SCIT) or Gross Income Earned (GIE) regime, and whose registered activities are all under the same income tax incentive, may opt to register as a VAT taxpayer solely for purposes of its local sales. Such VAT registration shall not affect the RBE’s entitlement to its existing fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including VAT zero-rating on local purchases and VAT exemption on importation, provided these are directly attributable to its registered activities.

Exclusions from the coverage of VAT on local sales of RBEs

This amendment to RR No. 9-2025 seeks to address the adverse tax implications arising from the application of Section 295(D) on certain RBEs, particularly Domestic Market Enterprises (DMEs) that are unable to recover input VAT due to ineligibility for VAT refund under Section 112(A) of the Tax Code, and other enterprises and transactions having similar concern. This move ensures consistency with the statutory framework and promotes equitable tax administration without necessarily eroding tax collection.

The following enterprises and transactions are, thus, excluded from the coverage of Section 295(D) of the Tax Code, as amended:

1. Local sales of VAT-registered Domestic Market Enterprises (DMEs) that do not qualify for VAT zero-rating on local purchases or VAT exemption on importation, despite being registered with any of the Investment Promotion Agencies;

2. Sales subject to VAT zero-rating under Sections 106, 108 and Title XIII of the Tax Code and VAT-Exempt Sales under Section 109 of the Tax Code;

3. Entities that have registered with the Board of Investments by virtue of a special law and are not availing of incentives under Title XIII of the Tax Code, as amended; and

4. Local sales made by RBEs that pertain to business activities not registered with any of the IPAs, including the sales of scrap materials, machineries, and property, plant and equipment.

For such transactions, the RBE-seller shall file and pay any corresponding VAT to the BIR.

Extension on the deadline for system reconfiguration

The effectivity of the provision under Section 7 of RR No. 9-2025, which requires RBEs using registered Cash Register Machines/Point-of-Sales (CRM/POS), Computerized Accounting System (CAS), Computerized Books of Accounts with Accounting Records, or other registered invoicing system/software to reconfigure or rename their system by replacing the term ‘VAT/VAT Amount’ in the breakdown of sales with ‘VAT on Local Sales,’ or adding the same where ‘VAT/VAT Amount’ is not applicable, has been extended until December 31, 2026.

As part of the BIR D.A.R.E.S. initiative, particularly “Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement”, BIR Commissioner Charito Martin S. Mendoza vows to improve taxpayer service by paying attention and immediately addressing the concerns of stakeholders particularly the taxpayers that are adversely affected in the implementation of newly introduced provisions of the Tax Code. Commissioner Mendoza recognizes the major role of investors in the economic growth and addressing their concerns is one of the aspects to improve the investment climate of the country.###

Safeguarding The Maritime Domain For The Free and Open Indo-Pacific

 

The Indo-Pacific is a region fundamentally connected by the seas. Its maritime domain should be understood as an integrated system underpinning regional security, economic resilience, energy transition, and digital connectivity. Amid growing uncertainties and tensions, safeguarding this maritime domain has become more important than ever for ensuring peace and stability across the region. 

The core principles of Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) are the defense of freedom and openness, which provide the essential foundation for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Upholding these principles requires the maintenance of a rules-based order. At the same time, in light of the increasingly complex challenges the region now faces, it is imperative to develop effective strategies and capabilities to address emerging risks—particularly in the maritime domain—through closer engagement and collaboration among regional partners. 

In line with this, the Stratbase Institute and the Japan Institute of International Affairs will co-host a symposium entitled “Safeguarding the Maritime Domain for the Free and Open Indo-Pacific” on March 6, 2026 (Friday) at Makati Shangri-La. 

The symposium aims to bring together leading scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond to share insights and explore avenues for closer and more effective cooperation. While maritime security will be a central focus, discussions will also extend to related areas such as economic security, freedom of navigation, the resilience of maritime and digital infrastructure, and the protection of the maritime environment. These discussions are intended to contribute to deepening and updating the FOIP concept, particularly as 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of its announcement.