George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), has announced recently that no move yet to revive 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.
URS Flour’s ‘SUGOD BAKERY’ showcases the Best of Regional Bread Culture in the Philippines.
Every province in the Philippines has a story, and more often than not, that story is told through its bread. From the crusty, carabao-shaped Pinagong of Quezon to the melt-in-your-mouth Pastel of Cagayan de Oro, our regional bread culture is a delicious map of Filipino identity. Recognizing this rich heritage, Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour is hitting the road with SUGOD BAKERY, a high-energy campaign that celebrates these local treasures while providing the “secret ingredient” to help them reach their full potential.
The Secret Behind the Local Crust
What makes a regional specialty truly iconic? It is the perfect balance of tradition and quality ingredients. Whether it is the dense, satisfying bite of a Sariayahin bread during the Agawan Festival or the pillowy softness of Mindanao’s favorite pastries, URC Flour has quietly been the backbone of these recipes for decades.
By providing world-class, locally-milled flour, URC ensures that the soul of regional baking remains intact while meeting modern standards of taste and texture. SUGOD BAKERY is an invitation to discover how premium wheat flour products can elevate a simple community staple into a world-class culinary experience.
VIBRANT COLORS, RICH TRADITION AND BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR BAKERS.
The streets of Lucban are officially in full bloom! But this year, the energy is reaching a whole new level WITH the participation of URC Flour’s SUGOD Bakery Campaign.
“The Pahiyas Festival has always been a grand celebration of bounty and the incredible craftsmanship of the people of Lucban. This year, we are especially thrilled and grateful to have URC Flour as our partner in bringing the SUGOD BAKERY campaign to our town. We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to URC Flour for choosing to celebrate with us and for investing so deeply in our community through this special event,” said Ms. Aiza Andaya, OIC Budget Officer and Chairman of the Sponsorship Committee, Lucban, Quezon. “This collaboration is a significant boost for our local economy, as it directly empowers our neighborhood bakers—the hardworking hands behind our beloved local breads” shared Andaya.
Celebrating Success at the Heart of the Festivals
To ensure maximum excitement and community impact, URC Flour has partnered with Local Government Units (LGUs) to embed the SUGOD BAKERY experience into the country’s most vibrant celebrations. This isn’t just a business tour; it’s a cultural celebration where modern technology meets age-old recipes. Bakers and food enthusiasts can catch the movement as it ignites the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban and the Agawan Festival in Sariaya
Onward to Modern Tradition: An Unstoppable Movement
URC Flour is bridging the gap between time-honored traditions and the future of baking. At every stop, SUGOD BAKERY will make local festivals into centers of discovery. Here, bakers can master new production methods and innovative marketing tips to grow their shops without losing their unique local flavor. It’s the perfect time to learn something new, step into the spotlight, and take your business to the next level.
EMPOWERING THE FILIPINO BAKER. Building on the solid foundation of the BIDA sa Masa program, the SUGOD BAKERY Campaign is now fueling a new era of growth, giving our community bakers the tools and expertise they need to expand their businesses and master the art of baking.
Through the Sugod Bakery campaign, URC Flour is traveling across the country to help and support local baking. The Local Government Units (LGU) gain a partner in grassroots development, while bakers walk away with new skills in food safety, marketing, and advanced production.
CELEBRATING SARIAYA’S FINEST AT THE AGAWAN FESTIVAL. The energy was electric in Sariaya, Quezon, as URC Flour joined the vibrant festivities of the Agawan Festival. For this year, a number of festivals from Luzon to Mindanao will be visited by the SUGOD BAKERY caravan, as URC Flour continues its commitment to fueling the passion of Filipino bakers and honoring the rich culinary traditions that bring our communities together.
MAKATA SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni ARISTOTLE POLLISCO by EVERYTHING’S FINE BOOK LAUNCH with GLOC-9 is a grandest book launch event, held on March 12, 2026 at the Fiesta Stage of the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026.
During the event, Aristotle Pollisco was interviewed about the MAKATA SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni Aristotle Pollisco by Everything’s Fine. He was even asked why MAKAT SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni Aristotle Pollisco is the title of the book?
Watch the following videos of the MAKATA SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni ARISTOTLE POLLISCO by EVERYTHING’S FINE BOOK LAUNCH:
Did you know that 2026 Bataan Freedom March is a successful 160km journey of valor?
The Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), in coordination with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and the Department of National Defense (DND), concluded the 2026 Bataan Freedom March.
The historic two-day tribute, which retraced the 160-kilometer route of the 1942 Bataan Death March, culminated with a solemn ceremony at the Capas National Shrine—the hallowed ground of the former Camp O’Donnell.
The 2026 Freedom March honors the 84th Anniversary of Valor and ensure that the harrowing sacrifices of Filipino and American heroes are never forgotten. By retracing the 100-plus kilometer route endured by our World War II heroes, the march served as a living memorial, transforming historical tragedy into a powerful display of national pride and resilience. As PVB First Vice President Miguel Angelo C. Villa-Real stated, “Eighty-four years later, we carry their torch to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten”.
We extend our deepest appreciation to the hundreds of participants who answered the call of valor this year. From veterans’ descendants, military and police personnel, and other enthusiasts who joined for 10-kilometer segments, your presence turned this trek into a moving flame of bravery,” Villa-Real added.
The marchers navigated the grueling Philippine heat, demonstrating the same endurance that defined our heroes decades ago. We salute your discipline in following essential safety protocols—from non-negotiable hydration to meticulous blister care—ensuring that every participant crossed the finish line safely.
This massive undertaking across three provinces was made possible through the unwavering support of PVAO, DND, as well as the local government units of Bataan, Pampanga, and Tarlac for their logistical coordination; and major sponsor San Miguel Corporation. It is through this collaborative spirit that Freedom March was able to offer participation free of charge, keeping the legacy of our veterans accessible to all.
The Bataan Freedom March is more than a walk-through of history; it is a commitment to the future of our nation. We encourage all Filipinos—especially the youth—to support this initiative in the years to come. Whether by joining the march, volunteering at hydration stations, or simply sharing the stories of our veterans, you help keep the “Freedom March Guidon” burning bright.
Let us continue to walk together, remembering that the freedom we enjoy today was bought by the steps taken in 1942. We look forward to seeing an even larger contingent of “Sons and Daughters” of heroes at the starting line next year.
The Philippines Book Festival 2026 is the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF) of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) Philippines – the country’s only marketplace to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders.
Gubat ng Karunungan or Rainforest of Knowledge is the theme of the PBF 2026. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.
On March 12, 2026 (Day 1), 11:00AM-12:30PM, the PBF 2026 was opened with an Opening Ceremony called the LAYAG-PAHINA: OPENING CEREMONIES that compose of Open House & Registration, Entrance of Colors, Philippine National Anthem, Invocation, Welcome Chant, Sitsiritsit, Welcome Message, Opening Rites, Poetry Reading, PBF Declaration, and Pagtatanghal.
The Open House & Registration of PBF 2026 on March 12, 2026 (Day 1) is at 10:00AM, and the Programme, LAYAG-PAHINA: OPENING CEREMONIES starts from 11:00AM to 12:30 PM.
Invocation, Entrance of Colors, Philippine National Anthem, Welcome Chant and Sitsiritsit are one of the first activities of the PBF 2026 Opening Ceremony.
Charisse Aquino-Tugade, Executive Director, NBDB, has shared a Welcome Message during the Opening Ceremony of the PBF 2026, held on March 12, 2026 at the Fiesta Stage, 5th Floor, Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
Opening Rites is one of the necessary activities of the PBF 2026.
Fatima Panontongan, Undersecretary & Chief of Staff, DEPED; Eric Zerrundo,Zerrundo, Executive Director & Chairman, NCCA; and Gerald Galindez, Poet & Artisan, had recited a Poetry Reading during the event of PBF 2026 Opening Ceremony.
Tala Tugade has introduced Sonny Angara, Secretary, DEPED, for the PBF Declaration who also shared a message during the PBF 2026 Opening Ceremony.
Readers and supporters of inspiring leadership gathered for a special magazine signing event featuring George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections, and Glenda V. Hufano, Past District Governor of Kiwanis International Philippine Luzon District.
The event was held on March 10, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at National Book Store located at SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Philippines.
Organized by TopNewsAsia and Rising Tigers Magazine, the gathering offered readers a rare opportunity to meet two distinguished leaders featured in the publications. The magazine signing was led by Editor-in-Chief Grace Bondad Nicolas, who continues to champion stories of leadership, governance, and community service through the magazines’ platforms.
During the event, guests had the opportunity to interact with the featured personalities through a question-and-answer segment, which provided insights into Chairman Garcia’s leadership in the country’s electoral system and Hufano’s work in community development through Kiwanis.
“I am always thankful to our featured leaders who, despite their busy schedules, made time to come and meet everyone,” said Grace Bondad Nicolas.
Chairman Garcia encouraged everyone to vote and expressed his gratitude for the high voter turnout and peaceful conduct of the previous elections under his leadership. He also emphasized digital innovation in the electoral process, noting that advancements in technology have enabled faster transmission of election results.
Hufano, on the other hand, shared that she will continue to help children through her connection with Kiwanis International. She mentioned that since childhood, she has had a heart for helping others, which inspired her advocacy to assist indigent communities. Many Kiwanis members also attended the event to show their support for her.
Supporters, readers, and members of the public attended and took part in the engaging afternoon of dialogue, inspiration, and an exclusive magazine signing experience.
Event Details:
Date: March 10, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: National Book Store, SM Mall of Asia
For media inquiries and event details, interested parties were encouraged to contact the organizers of TopNewsAsia and Rising Tigers Magazine at +63 977 897 8877 or president@tagmedia.asia.
Who else will join the launch of Makata sa Pinas with Gloc-9 at PBF 2026?
During the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026 Media Launch that was held on February 26, 2026, CHARISSE AQUINO-TUGADE, Executive Director of the National Book Development Board (NBDB), has announced of the launching of Makata sa Pinas with Gloc-9 by Everything’s Fine at the Fiesta Stage of the PBF 2026 on March 12, 2026.
Let’s meet the author, Aristotle Pollisco, get your copies signed, and celebrate poetry with us. Makata sa Pinas Book Launch will be held on March 12, 2026, 5PM-7PM at the Hall 3, Main Stage at PBF 2026.
PBF 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at 5th Floor, Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. FREE Entrance for ALL.
Who else will attend and experience the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2026?
National Book Development Board has launched the PBF 2026 on February 26, 2026 during the Philippine Book Festival 2026 Media Launch at JRich Corporate Center, Sto. Domingo Ave., Quezon City,
Gubat ng Karunungan or The Rainforest of Knowledge is the theme of PBF 2026. 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.
Diverse publishers, creators, authors, writers, illustrators, book lovers, readers, educators, story tellers, and industry stakeholders will join the 4th Philippine Book Festival – the Philippine Book Festival 2026.
PBF 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at 5th Floor, Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. FREE Entrance for ALL.
