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Category: Advocacy

  • YONGSOO “SAMUEL” CHO WINS INNOVATIVE COMPANY OF THE YEAR AT ASIA LEADERS AWARDS 2026

    YONGSOO “SAMUEL” CHO WINS INNOVATIVE COMPANY OF THE YEAR AT ASIA LEADERS AWARDS 2026

    Why YONGSOO “SAMUEL” CHO won as Innovative Company of the Year at ASIA LEADERS AWARDS 2026?

    Renewable energy development and Philippine–Korean cooperation take center stage as the awards recognize business leaders and companies from the Philippines and Indonesia.

    BSD, Indonesia — Yongsoo “Samuel” Cho, Chief Executive Officer of HQ Company Special Energy Philippines, Inc. and IEK HQ Special Energy Philippines, Inc., received the Innovative Company of the Year Award at the Asia Leaders Awards Indonesia 2026 on October 17 at Santika Hotel Premiere in BSD, Greater Jakarta.

    The recognition highlighted the company’s work in renewable energy development and its efforts to establish partnerships connecting international expertise, technology, investment, and local economic opportunities.

    A South Korean business executive and civic leader, Cho has expanded his business interests from international trading into renewable energy projects in the Philippines. His initiatives include solar energy development opportunities in the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone and the Baguio City Economic Zone.

    For Cho, the award comes amid efforts to strengthen commercial ties between the Philippines and South Korea while exploring opportunities in sustainable energy and international business cooperation.

    Advancing renewable energy in the Philippines

    Cho’s business journey began in Japan in 2006 before expanding into Philippine renewable energy opportunities. Under his leadership, HQ Company Special Energy Philippines, Inc. advanced solar development initiatives in the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone following a Memorandum of Agreement with the zone authority in 2022.

    Through IEK HQ Special Energy Philippines, Inc., he has also pursued renewable energy development opportunities in the Baguio City Economic Zone, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in September 2024.

    The company’s portfolio includes a proposed 5-megawatt alternating-current (MWac) solar project in Zamboanga City. The initiative forms part of its efforts to explore renewable energy solutions for economic zones and support the Philippines’ transition toward a more diversified energy mix.

    Cho also leads HQ Company International Holdings Inc., which engages in domestic and international trading and facilitates business partnerships. His wife, Maria Tricia Valdez, serves as Chief Executive Officer of HQ SS Strategic Supply Company Philippines, Inc., working alongside him in advancing business activities and strategic partnerships.

    Beyond business, Cho serves as a Knight Commander of Rizal and Area Commander in South Korea of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, an Auxiliary Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, and President and Chairman of the Korea-Philippines War Veterans Recognition and Support Organization.

    He received the Iconic Businessman of Asia Award at the 10th Southeast Asian Achievement Awards in 2025 and participated in the 2025 APEC CEO Summit in South Korea.

    His recent engagements include the Philippine–Korea Bridge Forum in Seoul in September 2026 and a meeting with Philippine Department of Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay and her team in Makati City on October 6, 2026. The latter discussion explored opportunities for Philippine–Korean tourism cooperation and the potential contribution of international business networks and technology partnerships to sustainable tourism development.

    Asia Leaders Awards builds cross-border connections

    Now in its eighth year in the Philippines and its third year in Indonesia, the Asia Leaders Awards was established to recognize outstanding leaders, entrepreneurs, public servants, and organizations whose contributions create opportunities and advance economic and social progress.

    The October 17 ceremony brought together distinguished guests, including H.E. Victorina Hesti Dewayani, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Indonesia in Manila; Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, President and Chief Operating Officer of TAG Media Group; and Robert Laurel Yupangco, Chairman of the Asia Leaders Awards. They joined in presenting awards to individuals and organizations from both countries.

    “Eight years ago, we established the Asia Leaders Awards in Manila with a vision: to promote the Philippines as a business hub in Asia by recognizing outstanding business leaders, entrepreneurs, and public servants whose contributions create opportunities, inspire progress, and move our nation forward,” Nicolas said.

    “For the past three years, the Asia Leaders Awards has expanded its presence in Indonesia, reflecting our commitment to building stronger connections across Asia. We believe that leadership should not only be recognized within national boundaries but should also serve as a bridge connecting countries, industries, and people,” she added.

    “Because leadership has no borders, and excellence deserves to be recognized wherever it is found,” Nicolas said.

    Recognizing leaders from the Philippines and Indonesia

    Cho was among a distinguished group of individual awardees whose work spans business, public service, and community development.

    Entrepreneur and philanthropist Glenda V. Hufano received the Woman of Substance – Philippines Award, recognizing her entrepreneurial achievements and commitment to serving underprivileged children, with plans to extend her philanthropic initiatives to Indonesia.

    Atty. Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, received both the Man of the Year – Philippines Award and the Excellence in Public Service – Philippines Award.

    Atty. George Erwin M. Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections, was honored with the Electoral Excellence Award, while Manjit T. Singh Reandi, President of Camp John Hay, received the Man of Influence Award.

    Michael “Mikee” Romero was recognized with the Businessman of the Year – Philippines Award for his business leadership.

    Representing Indonesia, H.E. Budi Santoso, Minister of Trade, received the Man of the Year – Indonesia Award, recognizing his leadership in the country’s trade and economic sector.

    Companies recognized for industry contributions

    The ceremony also recognized companies whose achievements reflect growth, innovation, and market development.

    Cimory Group received the Fast Moving Company of the Year Award, while PT Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk, the operator of Alfamart, received the Company of the Year Award. Alfamart has an extensive retail presence in Indonesia and the Philippines; figures concerning its branch network and franchise arrangements should be confirmed before publication.

    Orang Tua Group received the Brand Excellence Award – Indonesia, recognizing its position in Indonesia’s consumer goods industry. The company is also associated with products available in the Philippine market, including through DALI Philippines. Its reported plans for a Philippine manufacturing facility next year would require confirmation from the company.

    Together, the individual and corporate awardees represented a range of industries, from public service and retail to consumer goods and renewable energy.

    Leadership with a regional outlook

    The Asia Leaders Awards seeks to extend recognition beyond national boundaries by bringing together business leaders, government representatives, and entrepreneurs from the Philippines and Indonesia.

    Cho’s recognition reflects the growing importance of innovation and international partnerships in developing new business opportunities, particularly in renewable energy. His work also highlights the potential for stronger commercial cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea.

    As the awards continue their presence in Manila and Jakarta, the organizers aim to create a platform where professional achievements can lead to broader connections among industries, investors, and institutions.

    For Cho and HQ Company Special Energy Philippines, Inc., the Innovative Company of the Year Award marks a recognition of their renewable energy initiatives. The next measure of success will be the implementation of projects, the development of sustainable partnerships, and the delivery of tangible benefits to the industries and communities they serve.

    REFERENCE: Asia Leaders Awards President Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.

  • Asia Leaders Awards 2026 Manila: Celebrating Asia’s Visionaries on November 25, 2026 at Bellevue Hotel

    Asia Leaders Awards 2026 Manila: Celebrating Asia’s Visionaries on November 25, 2026 at Bellevue Hotel

    Who else will join the Asia Leaders Awards 2026 Manila?

    Just celebrated the Asia Leaders Awards Indonesia last October 17, 2026 with Alfamart, Cimory, Orang Tua and Minister of Trade among the leaders in Indonesia with BIR Commissioner Atty. Charlito Mendoza, Comelec Chairman Atty. George Erwin M. Garcia, Philanthropist Glenda Hufano, Korean Japanese Entrepreneur Samuel Cho, Tycoon Mikee Romero, Camp John Hay President Manjit Reandi with the presence of incoming Embassy of Indonesia Ambassador Josef Nae Soi, Asia Leaders Awards Chairman Robert Laurel Yupangco and Asia Leaders Awards President Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.

    The Asia Leaders Awards 2026 returns this year with another celebration of leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and excellence, bringing together distinguished business leaders and changemakers in Manila, Philippines, on November 25, 2026.

    As we look forward to this year’s awards, we also look back at some of the remarkable personalities and organizations who have been recognized in previous editions.

    Among them is Ernesto Tanmantiong, President and CEO of Jollibee Foods Corporation, whose leadership has helped transform a homegrown Filipino brand into one of Asia’s most recognizable food-service companies.

    Another distinguished awardee is Kevin Tan, Executive Director of Megaworld Corporation and President and CEO of its parent company, Alliance Global Group, Inc. (AGI), whose work reflects the continuing growth and global competitiveness of Philippine business.

    From Indonesia, Kopi Kenangan, known globally as Kenangan Coffee, represents the remarkable rise of Southeast Asian homegrown brands. Co-founded in 2017 by Indonesian entrepreneur Edward Tirtanata, who serves as CEO, the company has grown into a major coffee brand with approximately 1,400 branches globally.

    The awards have also recognized leaders who play important roles in shaping Indonesia’s retail and business landscape, including Budihardjo Iduansjah, the current General Chairman of HIPPINDO, the Indonesian Association of Retailers and Shopping Center Tenants.

    These past awardees embody what the Asia Leaders Awards seeks to celebrate: individuals and organizations that create opportunities, build industries, inspire communities, and contribute to the economic and social progress of Asia.

    This year, the journey continues.

    Join us as we bring together leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and visionaries in Manila for the Asia Leaders Awards 2026.

    Do you know a leader, entrepreneur, organization, or changemaker who deserves recognition?

    Nominate today: www.asialeadersawards.asia Email: president@asialeadersawards.asia Let us celebrate the leaders who are shaping the future of Asia.

    #ALA2026 #AsiaLeadersAwards

    REFERENCE: Asia Leaders Awards President Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas.

  • Whatcha Saying? Stage Adaptation of Deaf Artist CJ Reynaldo’s Comic Opens in Quezon City and La Union This November

    Whatcha Saying? Stage Adaptation of Deaf Artist CJ Reynaldo’s Comic Opens in Quezon City and La Union This November

    Metro Manila and La Union, Philippines – Apothecary Productions presents Whatcha Saying? – A Stage Adaptation, a one-act play written and directed by Heart Romero. The play runs from November 4 to 7, 2026 at Thames International Auditorium, 27 Calle Industria Street, Quezon City, and from November 14 to 16, 2026 at Lorma Colleges AVR, MacArthur Highway, Brgy. Carlatan, City of San Fernando, La Union. Tickets are ₱800 in Quezon City and ₱500 in La Union, and are sold through Ticketnation Philippines.

    The play follows CJ, a Deaf freshman student, as he goes about his life in a hearing world. When he meets his schoolmates Liam and Sarah, the three must find new ways to understand each other. Along the way, they explore love, friendship, identity, and college life. It is a warm and funny story that shows how being heard can begin with the hands.

    The play is based on the comic book by Deaf Filipino artist CJ Reynaldo (Caldatelier). The comic is published by Komiket and was a finalist at the 39th National Book Awards. It uses humor to teach Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and to share the daily realities of living in a hearing world.

    The cast is led by Deaf actor Cocoy Quiambao as CJ, Nathan Molina and Raymond Lance Aguilar, alternating as Liam, and Onix Valerio as Sarah. The ensemble is Aura Payawan, Bev Palileo, Lucky Charles Historia, and Wayne San Juan. Deaf & Terp Corporation is the community and consultancy partner and guides the production on FSL and Deaf culture.

    The production is presented with Thames International and Lorma Colleges, together with the National Development Company and the Philippine Innovation Hub.

    Show Details

    Quezon City – Thames International Auditorium, 27 Calle Industria Street, Quezon City, Philippines 1110
    November 4 (Wednesday), 5 PM and 8 PM; November 5 (Thursday), 8 PM; November 6 (Friday), 8 PM; November 7 (Saturday), 5 PM and 8 PM. Tickets: ₱800

    San Fernando, La Union – Lorma Colleges AVR, MacArthur Highway, Brgy. Carlatan, City of San Fernando, La Union 2500, Philippines
    November 14 (Saturday), November 15 (Sunday), and November 16 (Monday), each at 3 PM and 7 PM. Tickets: ₱500
    Language: Filipino Sign Language, Tagalog, and English
    Running time: 45 to 60 minutes

    About Apothecary Productions

    Apothecary Productions is a theatre and performing arts company based in Manila and La Union. It was founded by Heart Romero, and its first project was Emulsyon – A Twinbill in November 2024. The company makes inclusive, community-rooted theatre, where Deaf culture, Filipino Sign Language, and accessibility are part of the artistic work.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Chelsea Residuo, Assistant Production Manager for Public Relations Email: admin@apothecaryprods.com | Phone: 0966 184 2106
    Address: Apothecary Productions, Jabbit Armitage, 3/F, West Wing, Philippine Innovation Hub – Marikina Enterprise Center, 34 Russet corner Rainbow Streets, Brgy. Concepcion Dos, Marikina City, Metro Manila, Philippines
    Facebook: Apothecary Productions | Instagram: apothecaryproductions
    Hashtags: #WhatchaSaying2026 #ApothecaryProductions #WhatchaSayingManiLaUnion

  • JG Superstore Opens Its First Flagship Store at SM North EDSA – The Biggest Camera Store in the Philippines

    JG Superstore Opens Its First Flagship Store at SM North EDSA – The Biggest Camera Store in the Philippines

    JG Superstore has opened recently its first flagship store at SM North EDSA – the biggest Camera Store in the Philippines.

    JG Superstore was started with the passion of empowering photographers, videographers, content creators and storytellers across the country, and this passion has bring them together at JG Superstore, SM North EDSA Grand Opening, held on June 03, 2026 at 3F, The Annex Building, SM City North EDSA, Quezon City.

    JG Superstore, SM North EDSA is the first flagship store and the newest trusted source for camera, photo, video, audio & more in the Philippines.

    JG Superstore’s mission remains to their customers, to empower Filipinos, to create more and grow further. And these means serving to the customers not only through the products they offer but also through the programs that support them beyond the purchase. JG Academy is their educational arm where customers can create opportunities for learning and upscaling the help of their experts in the industry.

    JG Superstore was opened towards EDSA with a very clear direction. Bring the right products closer the customers, support the creative community, and continue innovating to create retail experience that is not only about selling but for about helping people to create, grow and move forward.

    JG Superstore, SM North EDSA is its first flagship store at SM Supermalls and mall store in the Philippines.

  • JG Superstore, SM North EDSA Grand Opening: First Flagship Store in SM Supermalls

    JG Superstore, SM North EDSA Grand Opening: First Flagship Store in SM Supermalls

    JG Superstore, SM North EDSA Grand Opening was held on June 3, 2026 at 3F, The Annex Building, SM City North EDSA, North Avenue corner Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City.

    It’s the first flagship store in SM Supermalls and the newest trusted source for Camera, Photo, Video, Audio & more in the Philippines.

    During the event, Oliver Tan and Jill Tan, owners of JG Superstore led the Christ’s Commission Fellowship (CCF)Business Dedication and Prayers of Dedication of JG Superstore, SM North EDSA.

    According to Jill Tan, the grand opening of JG Superstore, SM North EDSA is a very meaningful milestone of the company as they started with very very humble beginnings. They personally talking to their customers, tacking orders and learning directly from the people they serve. That was their real experience of retail, listening to customers, understanding their needs and earning their charts one interaction at a time. Ten (10) years later, after serving their customers and the creative community. Through their e-commerce and distribution channels, they take it importance step forward as they officially opened their first mall store at SM North EDSA. This is really a major step in bringing JG Superstore closer to the people they serve, and in creating retail experience that is more personal, more useful, and more connected to the real needs of theirs customers and our community.

    JG Superstore’s mission remains to their customers, to empower Filipinos, to create more and grow further. And these means serving to the customers not only through the products they offer but also through the programs that support them beyond the purchase. JG Academy is their educational arm where customers can create opportunities for learning and upscaling the help of their experts in the industry.

    Jill Tan also mentioned that, as they opened JG Superstore towards EDSA , their direction is very clear. Bring the right products closer the customers, support the creative community, and continue innovating to create retail experience that is not only about selling but for about helping people to create, grow and move forward.

    On June 3, 2026, they opened the JG Superstore, SM North EDSA, the first mall store and the newest trusted source for Camera, Photo, Video, Audio & more in the Philippines. But more importantly, they started their commitment to their customers, their partners and to Filipino creative communities.

  • COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia Says No Move Yet to Revive Marcoleta Probe

    COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia Says No Move Yet to Revive Marcoleta Probe

    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.

    REFERENCE:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    TAG Media Group

  • A Taste of the Islands: URC Flour’s ‘SUGOD BAKERY’ Showcases the Best of Regional Bread Culture

    A Taste of the Islands: URC Flour’s ‘SUGOD BAKERY’ Showcases the Best of Regional Bread Culture

    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.

    REFERENCE: URC PR

  • MAKATA SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni ARISTOTLE POLLISCO by EVERYTHING’S FINE BOOK LAUNCH with GLOC-9 at PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026

    MAKATA SA PINAS: Mga Tula ni ARISTOTLE POLLISCO by EVERYTHING’S FINE BOOK LAUNCH with GLOC-9 at PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026

    Why MAKATA SA PINAS is the title of the Book?

    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:

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV91DQEE860/?igsh=aDhoaDF2bnh4eGRl

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV918SZk6t4/?igsh=OGNjM3dyeGg2YjV3

    Gloc-9 also performed rap songs which was applauded by the audiences at the Fiesta Stage of the PBF 2026.