Author: WILMAR NICOLAS DULDULAO

  • PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026 Strengthens its Commitment to the Growth of Local Publishing

    PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026 Strengthens its Commitment to the Growth of Local Publishing

    During the 2026 Philippine Book Festival Media Launch that was held on February 26, 2026, the National Book Development Board (NBDB)has announced the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 – the country’s only book festival dedicated exclusively to Filipino-authored and published works.

    The NBDB is all set for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF)— the country’s only marketplace dedicated exclusively to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders.

    The festival runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

    CHARISSE AQUINO-TUGADE is the Executive Director of the National Book Development Board (NBDB), a cultural worker, the primary mover behind CulturAid, the founder of The Manila Collectible Co., and the founding Director of Museo ng Muntinlupa.
    With interdisciplinary experience spanning the public and private sectors, she creates an environment that empowers and amplifies voices, connecting communities and organizations that might otherwise not cross paths. As the NBDB Executive Director, she envisioned and spearheaded The Book Nook, storytelling and reading communities that provide Pinoy books for kids and kids-at-heart from Ifugao to Tawi-Tawi, as well as the Philippine Book Festival, the country’s premier all-Filipino book fair.

    “With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences.”

    Building on that momentum, the NBDB sees PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to expand visitor turnout and exhibitor participation but also to strengthen access to locally produced books and learning materials. In a milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming all readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book
    evaluators from across the country.

    Four Realms, One Rainforest

    PBF 2026 reimagines its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

    This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” at PBF 2026.

    Beyond the realms, the festival offers a range of spaces for connection: Lugar Lagdaan for book signings and reader-author meetups; Bahay Ilustrador for a look into the world of visual storytellers; Gubat ng Karunungan for workshops, talks, and masterclasses; the Fiesta Stage for major programming and performances; and Umpukan for informal community conversations.

    The NBDB, in cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, will also feature facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works
    that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

    A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14, 2026 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

    Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

    This year’s festival takes its theme from the richness underfoot and overhead: Gubat ng Karunungan,or Rainforest of Knowledge. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot”
    Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they journey through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.

    Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wove recycled paper into the artwork as a deliberate gesture: the same trees that give us paper carry the stories we
    tell. “Our stories, our books, and our karunungan all start here—in the biodiversity we need to protect,” he said.

    A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

    “The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors,” Aquino-Tugade said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry.”

    “Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators,” Aquino-Tugade concluded.

    About the National Book Development Board

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the Philippines’ book authority mandated to develop and strengthen the local book publishing industry. It works to expand access to quality Philippine
    books, promote a culture of reading, and support the growth of local publishing, while ensuring that Filipino authorship and literary production remain visible, competitive, and sustainable in both
    national and international contexts.

    Follow @nbdbphilippines (Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok) or visit books.gov.ph to learn more.

    REFERENCE:

    NBDB Communications

    #PhilippineBookFestival #PBF2026 #MagbasaTayo #AklatParaSaLahat #NBDB

  • Camella Forecasts Multigenerational Living as the Next Frontier in Philippine Real Estate

    Camella Forecasts Multigenerational Living as the Next Frontier in Philippine Real Estate

    Multigenerational living—where grandparents, parents, children, and extended relatives reside within a single household—has long been a hallmark of the Filipino way of life. Deeply rooted in the spirit of bayanihan, the collective sense of unit, it embodies a social landscape where emotional bonds, practical interdependence, and cultural continuity are valued in equal measure. Historically prevalent in ancestral homes, this living arrangement has become increasingly common in urban and suburban contexts, driven by economic realities, demographic shifts, and shifting real estate market dynamics.

    Why Do Filipino Families Choose Multi-Generational Living

    Recognizing the Filipino tradition of extended families living under one household, Camella has introduced multigenerational homes, designed with ample living spaces that foster privacy and interaction.

    Over the years, the Philippine housing sector has undergone significant transformations, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of the residential model. Data from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) show that extended or multi-family households increased from 25 percent in 1990 to 29 percent in 2020, while homes for nuclear families declined from 71 percent to 61 percent over the same period. Figures from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also note that escalating property prices—up to 6.5 percent year-on-year as of 2022—combined with inflationary pressures and metropolitan congestion, have made multigenerational homeownership a pragmatic and financially feasible strategy, enabling families to consolidate resources, secure premium locations, and invest in real estate properties as a form of inheritance.

    Design imperatives for a dynamic market

    For real estate, this creates opportunities to reimagine residential design to meet the needs and preferences of larger, more complex households. Homes must be configured with privacy to foster shared experiences while allowing each generation the autonomy they require. Adaptability has also emerged as a critical priority, with flexible spaces that provide shifting functions, provisions for auxiliary kitchens, and convertible open or enclosed areas, ensuring the house they purchased remains relevant through decades of change.

    Inclusivity further strengthens the appeal of a multigenerational home. Accessibility features such as step-free entries, wider doorways, and non-slip flooring enable senior family members to age in place with comfort, while enhancing safety for all. Aesthetic harmony is given equal importance, as designs that merge traditional architectural cues with modern styling can resonate across age groups—satisfying the sentimental preferences of older residents while aligning with the contemporary tastes of younger residents.

    A home for generations

    Camella continues to uphold its mission of making homeownership attainable and adaptable to the aspirations of Filipino families, ensuring that every generation finds a space they can truly call their own.

    Camella has taken a key step toward meeting this demand with its newest premium residential line, crafted for multigenerational living. Designed to reflect the aspirations of Filipinos in extended households, it offers expansive house models, including Fiona, Gianna, and Hera, ranging from 140 to 170 square meters, on lot sizes from 130 square meters, giving ample configurations for multiple private retreats and communal gathering zones.

    Through intentional planning, bedrooms provide privacy for each generation, while expansive kitchens—often with auxiliary cooking areas—anchor forever homes as functional and social sanctuaries. Open-plan living and dining areas allow for flexibility, easily transforming to host milestone celebrations or quiet evenings of shared success. Outdoor features, such as balconies, pocket gardens, patios, and carports, extend the livable space, offering both routine and recreational benefits.

    Adding a distinctive edge to its residential portfolio, Camella also introduces three-storey townvillas called Tiara and Chiara—housing innovations designed for hybrid home-and-work lifestyles. These residences are ideal for pioneering professionals seeking to integrate career and home life seamlessly, as well as expanding entrepreneurs who require multipurpose spaces for both living and running a business.  With dedicated floors that can be configured as private workspaces or family quarters, the townvillas deliver the versatility needed to meet the diverse requirements of today’s multigenerational households.

    As family structures diversify, Camella expands its residential portfolio with house models tailored to every life stage. For growing households of Overseas Filipinos, Camella offers spacious configurations to accommodate the dynamics of family life. Recognizing the Filipino tradition of extended families living under one household, it has introduced multigenerational homes, designed with ample living spaces that foster privacy and interaction.

    Camella has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of Filipino families, setting the standard for future residential neighborhoods and creating a benchmark for accessible yet aspirational living. Through its modern editions, Camella continues to uphold its mission to make homeownership not only attainable but also adaptable to the aspirations of Filipino families, ensuring that every generation finds a space they can truly call their own.

    The next frontier in Philippine housing

    Camella has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of Filipinos, setting the standard for future residential neighborhoods and creating a benchmark for accessible yet aspirational living.

    In a nation where family is both foundation and framework, the residential developments that will lead the market are those designed for all generations. By adapting cultural insight, market intelligence, and future-ready design, Camella not only responds to a growing housing segment—it defines it. These are homes that honor tradition while embracing innovation, creating living spaces that stand as legacies: adaptable, inclusive, and attuned to the evolving lives of the Filipino families who will call them their own.

    The Philippines’ largest homebuilder

    Camella is the flagship brand of the Philippines’ largest integrated property developer, Vista Land, providing homeowners with over 600,000 homes in 1,250 beautifully designed communities across  49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities.

    The leading and preferred housing brand with a nationwide geographic reach, Camella builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.

    The new Camella home series honors tradition while embracing innovation, creating living spaces that stand as legacies: adaptable, inclusive, and attuned to the evolving lives of the Filipino who will call them their own.

    To know more about Camella and its developments across the islands, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial. Make your forever home a reality!

    REFERENCE:

    Ralph Raymond Rufino

  • Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    The Chairman of COMELEC recently issued an statement of firmness, fairness, and full preparedness to Voters and Candidates.

    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.

    Reference:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    TAG Media Group

  • Rising Tigers Magazine to Host Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity

    Rising Tigers Magazine to Host Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity

    Rising Tigers Magazine has announced to host a forum with theme “Wellness Within: A Forum on Health Balance and Longevity”.

    Makati City, Philippines, February 18, 2026 — Rising Tigers Magazine, led by President and Editor-in-Chief Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, will bring together leaders from government, business, and key sectors for the upcoming health and wellness forum on February 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Berjaya Makati Hotel. The forum highlights the growing importance of health security as a foundation of national resilience and inclusive economic growth.

    Organized in strategic partnership with various embassies in the Philippines, the forum aims to share global best practices and promote a holistic approach to health, wellness, and longevity.

    The forum will feature distinguished speakers H.E. Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, CIAC PCEO Joseph Alcazar, John Calub, Dr. Carl Balita, Master Hanz Cua, and Cory Quirino, who will share insights on health systems, wellness innovation, and sustainable approaches to public health. The panel sessions will be moderated by Philippine Information Agency – National Capital Region Director Emver Cortez, who will help guide meaningful discussions among policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders.

    “This forum is a platform for alignment, where leadership, policy, and innovation meet for the greater good,” said Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.
    Through keynote addresses and panel discussions, the forum positions healthcare not only as a social responsibility but as a strategic investment in the nation’s future, supporting inclusive growth, stability, and public welfare.

    Rising Tigers Magazine invites organizations and stakeholders to join this important national dialogue and explore partnership opportunities aligned with shared goals.

    For inquiries, please contact +63 977 897 8877 or email president@rising-tigers.asia.

    Together, let us help build a stronger nation through accessible products and services for all

    #RisingTigers #NationBuilders

    Reference:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    Rising Tigers Magazine

  • Haier lights Up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to Welcome 2026

    Haier lights Up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to Welcome 2026

    Manila, Philippines — Recently, Haier lights up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to welcome 2026. Global home appliance brand Haier welcomed the new year by bringing the spirit of world-class football to Filipino audiences, as a New Year television commercial featuring stars of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was showcased on a prominent EDSA billboard in Metro Manila.

    The local activation forms part of Haier’s global campaign with PSG, which saw landmark outdoor screens light up across major cities worldwide on December 31, 2025. The campaign highlights the shared values of excellence, innovation, and leadership that define both Haier and one of football’s most successful clubs.

    Haier became an Official Partner of Paris Saint-Germain in September 2025 through a multi-year agreement running until 2028. The partnership aims to integrate football passion into everyday life by connecting PSG’s champion mindset with Haier’s smart home technologies and user-centric innovations.

    The New Year TVC, now visible to thousands of daily commuters along EDSA, features PSG players delivering a festive greeting while reinforcing a champion spirit that resonates with Filipino fans, as global football continues to grow in popularity in the Philippines.

    Driven by the same pursuit of excellence seen on the pitch, Haier designs its products around people—powered by technology and proven in daily use. This philosophy is supported by Haier’s global localization strategy, ensuring solutions are tailored to the needs and lifestyles of consumers in different markets, including the Philippines.

    Through high-impact outdoor placements, digital campaigns, and global sports partnerships, Haier continues to strengthen emotional connections with consumers worldwide. As 2026 begins, Haier remains committed to delivering champion experiences through innovation, technology, and shared values—bringing global inspiration closer to Filipino homes.

    Building on its presence in the Philippines, Haier’s New Year activation brings global football excitement closer to Filipino fans. By lighting up a key EDSA billboard, the brand connects world-class innovation with everyday life, reaching commuters and households alike.

    The activation highlights Haier’s commitment to smart, user-focused solutions that make modern living easier and more enjoyable. From energy-efficient appliances to connected home technologies, Haier continues to design products that fit seamlessly into Filipino lifestyles.

    With football growing in popularity in the Philippines, Haier’s partnership with Paris Saint-Germain inspires teamwork, passion, and excellence—values that the brand brings to homes across the country as 2026 kicks off.

    Reference:

    Haier PR

    Lariza Garcia

  • A Look Back on How HONOR X9 Series Became the No. 1 Mid-range Smartphone in PH

    A Look Back on How HONOR X9 Series Became the No. 1 Mid-range Smartphone in PH

    It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January.

    Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2025 – Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.

    “When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

    The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year.  What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test– and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

    “One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.

    That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.

    The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.

    For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

    In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

    About HONOR

    HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

    Reference & Media Contacts:

    Pao Oga 
    PR Manager  paoo_honor@prl.ph   09190016898
    Denis Santos 
    PR Supervisor  deniss_honor@prl.ph  09171745327
  • A new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City: The Tribute Hotel

    A new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City: The Tribute Hotel

    The Tribute Hotel is a new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City.

    Quezon City, Philippines–Right in the heart of Tomas Morato in Quezon City, touted as the “Entertainment Capital of the Philippines,” lies The Tribute Hotel Quezon City, a chic and comfy hotel quietly making its mark as one of the city’s newest lifestyle destinations for staycations or dazzling celebrations.

    An establishment that blends comfort, thoughtful design, and a sense of ease that feels both modern, welcoming, and rejuvenating, The Tribute Hotel had its soft opening in November 2024. Since then, the hotel has been drawing attention for offering a refined yet relaxed stay experience in one of Quezon City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

    With a design that eyes both business and leisure travelers, The Tribute Hotel offers well-appointed rooms that balance function and comfort. Currently available for booking are the Deluxe Room and Superior Twin Room, both equipped with lifestyle essentials such as flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, mini refrigerators, kettles, and complete bathroom amenities.

    Deluxe Rooms, on the other hand, come with a bathtub and the option of twin or queen beds at the same rate, while Superior Twin Rooms feature a sleek shower setup. Guests also enjoy access to the hotel’s pool, gym facilities, and breakfast for two already included in published rates. A larger Junior Suite is set to open next year, expanding the hotel’s offerings even further.

    Beyond its rooms, The Tribute Hotel positions itself as a versatile venue for gatherings of all kinds. Its three function rooms—Ibiza, Valencia, and Mallorca—are designed to host everything from intimate meetings to milestone celebrations. Ibiza, the largest at 165 square meters, can accommodate up to 120 guests, while Valencia and Mallorca offer more intimate settings for smaller groups. Banquet menus are curated by the hotel’s in-house kitchen, with flexible options tailored to different budgets and occasions.

    Adding to the hotel’s lifestyle appeal is Don Tomas, its signature restaurant, which serves Spanish fusion cuisine in a stylish yet approachable setting. Here, classic Spanish flavors are reimagined with modern touches, making it a go-to spot for both hotel guests and local diners. This holiday season, The Tribute Hotel also rolls out special Christmas buffet dinners on December 24 and 31, priced at Php 2,000 nett per person, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

    As a new player in Quezon City’s hospitality scene, The Tribute Hotel QC is carving out its niche by offering more than just a place to stay. With its central location, thoughtful amenities, flexible event spaces, and growing dining experiences, it presents itself as a destination where stays, celebrations, and everyday moments feel effortlessly well put together.

    The Tribute Hotel Quezon City is located at 99 Scout Gandia, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. For bookings and reservations, visit the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages, email reservations@thetributehotel.ph, or call 0977 203 3805.

    A festive peek at the hotel’s future as a social hotspot

    Over the weekend, the hotel offered a glimpse of its potential as a social hub when it hosted the annual Christmas gathering of the Filipino Bloggers Network (FBN), a prestigious group of some of the country’s most recognized members of the blogging community.

    The celebration unfolded as a relaxed, convivial evening—filled with shared stories, good food, and laughter—reflecting the kind of warm, community-driven experiences the hotel aims to create. Rather than a formal affair, the night felt like a reunion, made more memorable by the hotel’s attentive service and comfortable, inviting spaces.

    The FBN also extends its heartfelt thanks to all the generous sponsors for their invaluable support in making the FBN Christmas gathering a success. Their partnership, contributions, and unwavering commitment helped bring the celebration to life and created a memorable experience for everyone involved. The group truly appreciates the trust and collaboration, and will be looking forward to more meaningful partnerships in the future.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Divine Reyes

  • White Castle Whisky goes light’ with charming Ashley Rivera for 2026 calendar

    White Castle Whisky goes light’ with charming Ashley Rivera for 2026 calendar

    White Castle Whisky has announced Ashley Rivera as the 2026 White Castle Whisky Calendar Girl.

    The brand’s new Calendar Girl is a charismatic and comedic GMA Network artist, digital creator, and online and television personality

    White Castle Whisky proudly names Ashley Rivera, GMA Network artist, digital creator, and one of the country’s most recognizable online and television personalities, as the 2026 White Castle Whisky Calendar Girl. Known for her charisma, comedic ability, and screen presence, Ashley brings out a more refreshing and comical side to the calendar tradition, in line with White Castle Light Whisky’s tagline “Dapat light lang!”

    The official unveiling of the White Castle Whisky 2026 Calendar was held during a special press conference on December 19, 2025 at Rampa Drag Club, Quezon City, 3 to 6 pm.

    This moment makes Ashley the newest addition to the iconic line of White Castle models such as Evangeline Pascual, Lora Tolentino, Techie Agbayani, Carmi Martin, Maria Isabel Lopez, Cristina Gonzales, Glydel Mercado, Roxanne Ginoo, Ninong Ry, Sassa Girl, Ria Atayde, Angelie “Pench” Andanar, and more.

    This year’s calendar aims to showcase a fusion of classic White Castle allure and contemporary Filipino pop culture, with Ashley embodying confidence, charm, and the spirit of today’s empowered Filipina, while showcasing her natural wit and humor. Her selection is a testament to White Castle Whisky’s brand values of encouraging individuality, authentic expression, and lighthearted enjoyment of the moments in one’s life.

    “I’m incredibly honored and thrilled,” Ashley shares. White Castle Whisky has such an iconic place in Filipino culture. To be chosen as the 2026 calendar girl feels surreal—l’ve been dreaming about this after being inspired by Tita Carmi Martin, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we created.”

    A GMA Sparkle Artist, Ashley Rivera attracted fans as a former regular cast member of the longest-running sketch comedy and gag show Bubble Gang, and other shows on the network. Before her career in mainstream TV acting, she was famous on TikTok and YouTube for her comedic persona “Petra Mahalimuyak.*

    In 2024, she started her podcast titled Chicks 2 Go, where she hosts with fellow comedian and internet personality Hershey Neri as they talk, joke, and share random relatable stories. In one of the earlier episodes of the said podcast.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    White PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia