*SiGMA World: SiGMA Asia 2026 Takes Over Manila May 31 – June 3*

SiGMA World, the global iGaming summit brand, is bringing its Asia flagship back to Manila. *SiGMA Asia 2026* runs *May 31 – June 3, 2026* at the *SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex*, and it’s set to be the biggest edition yet.

*SiGMA World x SiGMA Asia: The Connection*

SiGMA World is the parent brand behind SiGMA’s global summits - Malta, Dubai, São Paulo, Cape Town, and Asia. Think of SiGMA Asia as the “World” tour stop focused purely on Asia-Pacific markets. It’s where SiGMA’s global network meets Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing gaming audience.

PAGCOR officially endorsed the event through Chairperson & CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, calling it “significant to the country’s regulated gaming and FinTech industries”. 

 *Manila 2026: Key Details*

- *Dates*: May 31 – June 3, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

- *Venue*: SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City

- *Expected turnout*: 20,000+ attendees from operators, affiliates, regulators, fintech, and Web3

- *Format*:  expo + conference + networking + awards.

*What’s on the Agenda*

*1. World-Class Expo Floor*

Two levels of exhibitors: land-based & online casino operators, gaming software/platform devs, payment + AML compliance, responsible gaming bodies, marketing, data analytics, and e-learning firms. Big brands like PG Soft are already booked with massive booths. 

*2. SiGMA World Conference*

Panels designed for SiGMA’s global audience but tailored to Asia. Day 2 highlights:

- “Bet Big or Go Home: Why Asian Players Outspend the World”

- “Prediction Markets in Asia: Event Contracts vs iGaming” 

Themes cover regulation, AI in gaming, Web3, esports, and responsible gambling. SiGMA World summits pull 2,600+ Reuters journalists worth of global context, but Asia edition focuses on APAC growth. 

*3. SiGMA World Networking*

This is what SiGMA is famous for:

- 15 networking dinners across Manila

- 2 large parties

- B2B/B2C matchmaking zones for deals

- Two startup pitch competitions for new iGaming tech 

*4. SiGMA Asia Awards Gala*

June 2, 2026 at SMX. Adjudicated by KPMG US, it recognizes top operators, affiliates, and tech providers in Asia. 

 *Why Manila for SiGMA World*

SiGMA chose Manila again because the Philippines is now “Asia’s gaming hub”. With PAGCOR’s regulatory framework + high digital adoption, Manila gives global SiGMA World delegates direct access to compliance, investors, and SE Asia’s player base. Venue is 15-30 mins from NAIA. 

 *Who Should Go*

If you’re part of SiGMA World’s ecosystem - operators, affiliates, payment providers, regulators, investors, content creators - SiGMA Asia 2026 is your APAC entry point. Sponsors include global regulators, industry associations, and major gaming brands. 

 *Tickets & Registration*

Register via the official SiGMA Asia organizer site. General delegate tickets are listed FREE on some platforms. VIP/Platinum gets you networking drinks + premium events. Most attendees stay near MOA for SMX + after-party access. Grab is the go-to transport. 

*Bottom line*: SiGMA World brings the global iGaming playbook to Manila every year. SiGMA Asia 2026 is that playbook applied to APAC - 4 days of panels, pitches, PAGCOR-backed networking, and parties that set the region’s agenda.

George Garcia's Election Equation: More Preparation Less Complication

 

As the September 14, 2026 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections draw near, Commission on Elections Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia is leaving nothing to chance.

Demonstrating his trademark hands-on leadership, Garcia assured the public that the COMELEC is fully prepared for what is expected to be one of the most significant electoral exercises in the region’s history. His message is clear and unequivocal: every vote must count, every precinct must function, and every voter must be able to exercise their democratic right peacefully and securely.

“Handang-handa na po ang COMELEC para sa ating September 14, 2026 BARMM Parliamentary Election,” Garcia declared, emphasizing that election preparations are already in full swing.

Central to COMELEC’s strategy is the strengthening of election security. Garcia revealed that, if necessary, checkpoints throughout the region will be jointly manned by the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other government agencies. However, he was quick to stress that security measures must always respect the rights of motorists and passengers.

According to Garcia, law enforcement personnel have been instructed to strictly observe the “plain view doctrine” and ensure that security operations do not infringe upon civil liberties.

Beyond security concerns, Garcia has set an ambitious but critical goal for the upcoming polls.

“Isa lang ang instruction natin: Walang failure of election sa kahit na anong presinto sa buong 5,212 na presinto sa buong Bangsamoro.”

The statement reflects Garcia’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every one of the 5,212 polling precincts across the Bangsamoro region successfully conducts elections without disruption.

Recognizing the need for more accurate and unified reporting of election-related incidents, Garcia also called for the creation of a Technical Working Group composed of COMELEC, the PNP, and the AFP. The initiative aims to establish a common definition and methodology in classifying election-related violence, a long-standing issue that has often resulted in discrepancies between data reported by election authorities and security agencies.

By promoting inter-agency coordination, Garcia hopes to create a more transparent and reliable system for monitoring security threats and ensuring public confidence in the electoral process.

Meanwhile, COMELEC is also intensifying preparations on the technical side of the elections. Garcia disclosed that training and roadshow ballots are currently being printed at the National Printing Office. These ballots are designed to closely resemble the actual ballots that will be used during election day, allowing election personnel and teachers to familiarize themselves with the voting process and automated election equipment.

The initiative is expected to help identify potential operational issues early while giving teachers and election workers hands-on experience in setting up and managing voting machines.

Under Garcia’s stewardship, COMELEC continues to pursue a proactive approach that combines security, transparency, technological preparedness, and voter confidence. His leadership reflects a determination not only to conduct an election but to deliver a credible, orderly, and peaceful democratic exercise for the people of Bangsamoro.

As election day approaches, Chairman George Garcia’s message resonates across the region: preparation is the best guarantee of a successful election, and for COMELEC, failure is simply not an option.

“COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia Mindful of rules and laws RE: Marcoleta Probe”

George Erwin Mojica Garcia clarified that the Commission on Elections remains ready to coordinate and extend assistance to the Ombudsman regarding matters involving Senator Rodolfo ‘Marco’ Marcoleta, but stressed that, on the part of the COMELEC, the motu proprio investigation against the senator has already been dismissed.

In a recent statement, Chairman Garcia explained that the poll body has not yet discussed any possibility of reviving the case, especially since no Motion for Reconsideration (MR) has been filed before the Commission.

The statement highlights COMELEC’s adherence to due process and procedural rules, emphasizing that any further action would depend on formal legal developments rather than speculation or public pressure.

Garcia likewise reiterated the agency’s openness to cooperate with other government institutions whenever necessary, reflecting the COMELEC’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inter-agency coordination.

While political discussions continue to swirl around the issue, the poll chief made it clear that, for now, the case remains closed on the COMELEC’s end unless new legal remedies are officially pursued.

#GeorgeErwinMojicaGarcia

#RisingTigers

#TagMedia

How Sarah Deloraya-Mateo Turned Determination into Success, Elegance, and Legacy

Elegance is often seen in designer handbags, luxurious homes, refined style, and the confidence of a woman who has made her mark in the world. But for Sarah Deloraya-Mateo, true luxury was never handed to her, it was earned through sacrifice, sleepless nights, unwavering faith, and thirty years of relentless perseverance.

Today, the founder and CEO of SPD Jobs, Inc. embodies the image of a modern exquisite woman: accomplished, graceful, resilient, and deeply grounded in purpose. Behind the sophisticated lifestyle, elegant fashion choices, beautiful home, and successful career is a woman who once started with only ₱50,000, a dream, and the courage to believe in herself when few others did.

During SPD Jobs’ 30th Anniversary celebration, Sarah delivered an emotional speech titled “Legacy and Leap: A Story of 30 Years, Told from the Heart,” where she looked back on the struggles that shaped her remarkable journey from a young respiratory therapist to one of the country’s respected business leaders.

“While others were sleeping, I was working. While others were enjoying their weekends, I was working,” Sarah shared. “Not because I had to. But because I believed.”

Long before the designer clothes, luxury bags, and successful corporate life, Sarah spent countless nights balancing hospital work while quietly building a dream on the side. In a world where women in business were often underestimated, she pushed forward with quiet determination and extraordinary grit.

“I believed that hard work, perseverance, and faith could turn even the smallest dream into something that would one day outlive me,” she said.

One of the most pivotal moments in her life came after reading The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy, a book that transformed the way she viewed herself and her future.

“That book taught me that what the mind can conceive and the heart can believe, God can make possible,” she recalled. “I stopped asking, ‘Can I do this?’ and started declaring, ‘I will do this.’”

From humble beginnings inside a tiny office shared with her sister Abby and cousin Alyne, SPD Jobs slowly evolved into a nationwide company recognized for excellence, earning ISO 9001:2015 certification and the prestigious Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Level 2.

Yet despite her success and comfortable life today, Sarah remains deeply connected to her roots. She openly acknowledges that the life she now enjoys, the beautiful home, elegant lifestyle, and financial stability, was built not through privilege, but through discipline, resilience, and purpose.

For Sarah, fashion and success are not about vanity; they are reflections of a woman who refused to surrender to hardship. Every achievement she now enjoys symbolizes years of sacrifice, courage, and self-belief.

“Legacy is every single life that passed through our hands and left a little brighter than before,” she said during her speech.

In one of the most memorable moments of the evening, Sarah explained the true meaning behind SPD:

“S means Strength. P means Purpose. D means Destiny,” she proudly declared.

Today, Sarah Deloraya-Mateo stands as more than a successful CEO. She is an exquisite woman of substance, proof that elegance becomes more powerful when it is built on hard work, humility, faith, and the determination to rise above every obstacle life presents.

Sarah Deloraya-Mateo Shares What Employers Truly Want in Today’s Workforce

For Sarah Deloraya-Mateo, success in the workplace is no longer defined by credentials alone. In today’s rapidly changing professional landscape, employers are searching for people who possess character, resilience, and the ability to grow alongside the demands of modern business.

As the founder and CEO of SPD Jobs, Inc., Sarah has spent three decades connecting people with opportunities and helping companies build stronger workforces. During the company’s recent 30th Anniversary and Employees Summit, she reflected not only on her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, but also on the qualities that make employees truly valuable in the eyes of employers.

“In every challenge, every crisis, and every season of growth, one thing remains true—people are the heart of every organization,” Sarah shared during her emotional speech titled “Legacy and Leap: A Story of 30 Years, Told from the Heart.”

Having built SPD Jobs from a modest ₱50,000 dream into a nationally respected manpower and recruitment company, Sarah understands firsthand what separates exceptional employees from the rest. According to her, employers today are looking for five essential qualities: positive attitude, reliability, willingness to learn, synergy, and agility.

“A positive attitude matters because skills can be taught, but mindset shapes how people face pressure and challenges,” she explained. “Employees who remain professional, motivated, and solution-focused become valuable assets to any company.”

Sarah also emphasized the importance of reliability and accountability in the workplace. She noted that employers highly value individuals who show up on time, meet deadlines, and take ownership of their responsibilities.

“Integrity is doing your best even when no one is watching,” she said. “When people become dependable, they build trust—and trust is the foundation of every successful organization.”

Equally important, Sarah highlighted the value of continuous learning. In an age driven by technology and constant change, she believes employees must remain curious, adaptable, and open to growth.

“I stopped asking, ‘Can I do this?’ and started declaring, ‘I will do this,’” she recalled, referencing one of the defining lessons that shaped her leadership journey after reading The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy.

For Sarah, teamwork—or what she calls “synergy”—is another essential ingredient for success. She believes organizations thrive when employees communicate well, collaborate effectively, and support one another toward shared goals.

“Your discipline built our reputation. Your curiosity sparked our innovation. Your kindness gave our brand a soul,” she told the SPD workforce during the celebration.

Lastly, Sarah underscored the importance of agility—the ability to adapt quickly to new systems, environments, and challenges. As industries evolve, she believes employees who embrace change rather than fear it will continue to stand out.

Beyond business achievements, Sarah’s story remains a testament to perseverance and leadership in an industry traditionally dominated by men. From working sleepless nights as a young respiratory therapist to leading a company recognized with ISO 9001:2015 certification and the Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Level 2, her journey reflects resilience, faith, and unwavering purpose.

“S means Strength. P means Purpose. D means Destiny,” she proudly declared. “Strength through resilience, Purpose through service, and Destiny through the brighter future we help create for others.”

Thirty years after SPD Jobs began with only three believers and a dream, Sarah Deloraya-Mateo continues to inspire not only employees and entrepreneurs, but also the next generation of leaders determined to succeed with heart, integrity, and purpose.

“Legacy and Leap”: Sarah Deloraya-Mateo Celebrates 30 Years of Purpose, Perseverance, and People at SPD Jobs Anniversary

Three decades ago, SPD Jobs, Inc. began not in a grand office or corporate boardroom, but in the heart of a young respiratory therapist with a dream, relentless determination, and unwavering faith. Today, that dream has transformed into one of the country’s respected manpower and recruitment companies, touching thousands of lives across the Philippines.

During the company’s 30th Anniversary and Employees Summit, Sarah Deloraya-Mateo delivered an emotional and inspiring speech titled “Legacy and Leap: A Story of 30 Years, Told from the Heart,” reflecting on the struggles, sacrifices, and miracles that shaped the company’s remarkable journey.

“While others were sleeping, I was working. While others were enjoying their weekends, I was working,” she shared. “Not because I had to, but because I believed.”

Sarah recounted how a life-changing book, The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy, awakened her mindset and strengthened her belief that dreams become reality through faith, hard work, and perseverance.

“That book taught me that what the mind can conceive and the heart can believe, God can make possible,” she said. “I stopped asking, ‘Can I do this?’ and started declaring, ‘I will do this.’”

She also honored the people who helped build SPD from the ground up, including her sister Abby, cousin Alyne, and close friend Ditdit Conarco, who first inspired the idea of putting up a manpower agency. In a touching tribute, Sarah remembered Alyne and Mrs. Chu of Malabon Mirror—both of whom have already passed away—but whose faith and support became pillars of the company’s success.

“When SPD had no track record, Mrs. Chu gave me one,” Sarah recalled. “When I had only dreams and no proof, she gave me the most precious gift any entrepreneur can receive—opportunity.”

From humble beginnings and a modest capital of ₱50,000, SPD Jobs slowly grew through years of sacrifice, sleepless nights, and countless prayers. What started as a tiny office eventually expanded nationwide, helping thousands of Filipinos secure meaningful employment and better futures.

Sarah emphasized that SPD’s legacy goes far beyond business success.

“Legacy is the mother who finally found a job and could send her child to school,” she said. “Legacy is every single life that passed through our hands and left a little brighter than before.”

The company’s milestones, including its ISO 9001:2015 certification and recognition through the prestigious Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Level 2, were celebrated not as trophies, but as symbols of excellence, integrity, and service.

In one of the most memorable parts of her speech, Sarah revealed the deeper meaning behind the name SPD:

“S means Strength. P means Purpose. D means Destiny,” she declared. “Strength through resilience, Purpose through service, and Destiny through the brighter future we help create for others.”

She also paid heartfelt tribute to her husband, Arnel Mateo, family members, mentors, business partners, HR practitioner friends, and employees who stood beside her throughout the journey.

“To every employee here tonight, you are not working for SPD. You are SPD,” she told the crowd.

As SPD Jobs marks its 30th year, Sarah Deloraya-Mateo reminded everyone that true success is measured not only by achievements, but by the lives uplifted along the way. With faith as its foundation and people at the center of its mission, SPD Jobs now looks toward the future with the same courage and conviction that started it all three decades ago.

“Thirty years ago, three people believed. Today, a thousand of us believe,” she said. “Tomorrow, may millions believe because of what we choose to do next.”

#Sarahdelorayamateo

#ArnelMateo

#SPDJOBSINC

#RisingTigers

#Tagmedia

TOPNEWSASIA EXCLUSIVE Faith, Leadership, and Legacy: Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo of Iglesia Ni Cristo Honored at TopNewsAsia’s First “Leading Men” Awards

Among the most meaningful and inspiring moments of TopNewsAsia magazine’s inaugural “Leading Men” Awards was the recognition of Deputy Executive Minister Angelo Eraño V. Manalo, whose leadership within the Iglesia Ni Cristo continues to inspire millions through faith, discipline, unity, and humanitarian service.

Held on May 19, 2026 at the Chairman’s Lounge of Okada Manila, the prestigious gathering brought together distinguished leaders from the military, public service, diplomacy, civic organizations, and religious communities for the first-ever “Leading Men” Awards spearheaded by media visionary Grace Bondad Nicolas, Publisher, President, and Editor-In-Chief of TopNewsAsia under TAG Media Group.

The recognition of Brother Angelo highlighted the growing importance of spiritual leadership in nation-building and community development. In an age where society continues to face uncertainty and rapid change, his inclusion among the honorees reflected the enduring role of faith-based leadership in guiding people with compassion, humility, and purpose.

For many attendees, honoring Brother Angelo symbolized the connection between spiritual stewardship and social responsibility. Under the leadership of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, humanitarian missions, outreach programs, and community initiatives have continued to uplift lives across the globe, demonstrating how faith can become a powerful force for unity and hope.

The award also came alongside a meaningful courtesy call and magazine turnover led by Grace Bondad Nicolas and Maria Odessa Bondad Escaler, who formally presented the latest issue of TopNewsAsia featuring Brother Angelo on its cover.

The special feature written by Grace Bondad Nicolas described Brother Angelo as a symbol of the next generation of leadership within the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), a leader whose journey reflects discipline, service, humility, and unwavering devotion to the Church and its members worldwide.

Central to the article was the historic appointment of Brother Angelo as Deputy Executive Minister on May 31, 2025, a milestone moment witnessed by thousands in attendance and millions via livestream around the world. For members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, the appointment represented continuity, stability, and hope for the future of the Church.

As the son of INC’s Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo, Brother Angelo carries a legacy deeply rooted in spiritual leadership. Yet, as emphasized in the TopNewsAsia feature, his recognition is grounded not only in heritage, but also in years of dedicated service, commitment, and trust earned within the Church Administration and the Sanggunian.

TopNewsAsia portrayed him as a leader prepared to help guide a rapidly expanding global Church while remaining firmly anchored in the doctrines, values, and mission that have defined the Iglesia Ni Cristo for more than a century.

His recognition at the “Leading Men” Awards reinforced a powerful message, leadership is not measured solely by political influence or public visibility, but also by the ability to inspire people toward faith, unity, compassion, and moral responsibility.

As applause filled the halls of Okada Manila, Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo’s inclusion among the country’s modern-day nation builders stood as a testament to the enduring influence of spiritual leadership in shaping communities, strengthening families, and inspiring future generations through service and faith.

#AngeloEranoManalo

#TopNewsAsia

#TagMedis

#RisingTigers