DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 at Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium

    Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 at Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium

    The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte has successfully presented the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 that was held on February 15, 2025 at Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium, City of Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

    On February 6, 2025, Vice-Governor of Ilocos Norte, Cecilia Araneta Marcos shared to her Facebook Page account of the registration for free ticket of the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025. With this, I am IN of the grandest festival in the north.

    The winners of the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 are as follows:

    1st Place – Basi Festival of Piddig
    2nd Place – Siwawer Festival of Vintar
    3rd Place – Fiesta Empanada of Batac City
    1st Runner Up – Dinaklisan Festival of Currimao
    2nd Runner Up – Abuos Festival of Banna
    3rd Runner Up – Panagwawagi Festival of Dumalneg
    4th Runner Up – Ginginubat Festival of Adams
    5th Runner Up – Tadek Festival of Nueva Era

    The performers, choreographers, and communities who poured their hearts into this celebration of greatness have brought Ilocano culture and traditions to life on the grand stage. This year’s festival is one of the grandest Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals.

    THE SUSTAINABILITY PRIZE WINNER

    The Abel Festival of Pinili exemplified sustainability in the 2025 Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival by using bamboo from local sources, featuring genuine handwoven inabel instead of printed copies, and building sturdy, reusable props—all while supporting local weavers and preserving traditional crafts.

    THE INNOVATION PRIZE WINNER

    The Dinaklisan Festival of Currimao demonstrated exceptional innovation in the 2025 Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival through its ingenious design solutions, including spiral mechanisms and modular set designs that capture the fluid motions of marine life, costuming that mimics not only the vibrant underwater colors but also the speed of movement, and sustainable production practices—all while preserving the rich cultural heritage of its fishing community.

    For their remarkable achievement, Currimao receives a cash prize of PHP 300,000.

    With the passion, creativity, and dedication of the persons who worked behind the scenes of the festival led by Ilocos Norte Tourism, Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 was a successful event and one of the grandest festivals, indeed.

    Click the link: Tan-Ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 to watch the Tan-Ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals 2025 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Jr. Stadium!

    REFERENCES:

    Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos

    Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals

    Ilocos Norte Tourism

    TanOk2025 #IN207 #IlocosNorteImIN

    #TanOk2025#IN207#IlocosNorteImIN

  • New Location, More Books—See What’s In Store At The PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2025

    New Location, More Books—See What’s In Store At The PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2025

    The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s largest all-Filipino book festival, is back—this time at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, from March 13-16, 2025.

    The free four-day festival by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) puts Philippine books at the center of a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with authors.

    A Fiesta of Filipino Culture through Literature

    The PBF 2025 promises to be more festive, putting the spotlight on the country’s famous festivals, each one designed by some of the best Filipino artists working today.

    The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF’s section dedicated to children’s literature), designed by Juno Abreu, and the Komiks realm inspired by the famous Tuna festival in General Santos City, with design by illustrator and painter Paul Eric Roca. Aral Aklat, the section dedicated to textbooks, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbënga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.

    A design highlight is the Pakyawan Plaza, the festival’s centerpiece which has become a crowd favorite. The intricately designed Pahiyas Festival-themed activation space features a large bahay kubo, inside which fairgoers can browse collections of children’s books.

    A New Location for a More Accessible Experience

    The festive atmosphere is made all the more exciting as the PBF 2025 moves to a new venue—at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall. The NBDB believes this fresh location has brought new energy to the festival and can draw an even larger audience.

    For one, the new PBF site is strategically located in a mall at the heart of Metro Manila, making it easily accessible. Visitors can reach it via the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3 and the EDSA Busway, providing convenient transport for those coming from surrounding areas like Caloocan City, Quezon City, Makati City, Taguig City, and even from those on the eastern side such as Cainta, Taytay, and the cities of Antipolo, Pasig, and of course, Mandaluyong.

    “The decision to move the PBF to a different and smaller venue is definitely a bold one. We hope to offset that with the venue’s accessibility and generate higher foot traffic, as well as provide convenience for more visitors from other areas,” explained NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    Strides Toward Addressing Systemic Gaps

    Led by Aquino-Tugade and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the PBF has achieved a groundbreaking milestone—procuring over PHP 925 million worth of Philippine trade books and textbooks.

    Through the PBF, the NBDB, an attached agency of the DepEd, provides space for DepEd’s regional and district offices to purchase quality books and engage with fellow educators and professionals from the book publishing industry. The large-scale institutional purchase by DepEd addresses the issues of access and readership, bringing books to thousands of readers all over the Philippines.

    “The PBF is our love letter to Philippine books—its creators and its readers, and the many stories they have told about our people. It’s also our response to our country’s reading crisis, which is largely a problem of access. The PBF creates that marketplace for quality Filipino titles, and serves as a bridge between those books and readers across the country,” Aquino-Tugade said.

    “We have a large role to play in not just growing the book industry but in shaping the environments that make reading possible for all sectors of the population. The NBDB and its partners will continue to work against lack of access by saturating the market and our schools with quality Philippine-authored and published books,” Aquino-Tugade concluded.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Divine Reyes-Caraecle, Chief of Communications & Promotions
    09171396394
    news@books.gov.ph

    About the National Book Development Board

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdbphilippines).

    PRESS RELEASE
    National Book Development Board
    March 2025

  • URC Flour “Rises and Shines” with Innovation and Expertise at FCBAI Bakery Fair 2025

    URC Flour “Rises and Shines” with Innovation and Expertise at FCBAI Bakery Fair 2025

    Why URC Flour Rises and Shines with Innovation and Expertise at FCBAI Bakery Fair 2025?

    The Filipino Chinese Baker’s Association Incorporated (FCBAI) Bakery Fair 2025 witnessed a dazzling display of innovation and expertise as URC Flour took center stage, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s leaders in the flour industry. With a focus on cutting-edge techniques and high-quality products, URC Flour’s participation underscored its commitment to empowering bakers and driving the industry forward.

    “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do,” stated Naida Ebora, Sales, Marketing and Distribution Manager, URC Flour Division. “With the recent opening of our Sariaya Plant, we continuously strive to develop products that meet the evolving needs of bakers, whether they are home enthusiasts or seasoned professionals. Our goal is to provide them with the tools and resources they need to create exceptional baked goods,” added Ebora.

    This year’s theme of “Rise and Shine,” perfectly aligned with URC Flour’s dedication to helping bakers achieve their full potential. At their vibrant booth, attendees were treated to a showcase of the company’s latest advancement in n flour technology and baking solution. And to support this year’s theme, URC’s concept of “SIKAT”, has truly embodies the company’s position in helping bakers achieve their objectives.

    SIKAT in Filipino, means to shine, to be radiant, to be successful. It embodies the very essence of what we aim to achieve together. With URC flour, we want to empower you to be SIKAT in your baking endesvors. We understand that every baker, from home enthusiasts, to established professionals, dreams of creating baked goods that stand out, that are truly exceptional. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves in providing you the highest quality flour, the perfect foundation for your culinary masterpieces, “said Ebora.

    One of the hightlights of URC flour’s exhibit was the live baking demonstrations led by renowned Chef Aileen Asilom, which captivated audiences, showcasing the versatility and superior quality of URC’s Flour product range. The baking sessions not only highlighted the adaptability of URC Flour’s product range but also provide valuable insights into the latest baking techniques.

    In addition to the live demonstrations, URC Flour also featured interactive displays that highlighted the science behind baking, which provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the properties of different flours and how they affect the final product.

    The company’s representatives were on hand to answer questions and provide expert advice, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to education and knowledge sharing.

    URC Flour’s participation in the FCBAI Bakery Fair 2025 was a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and expertise. By showcasing its latest products and providing valuable educational resources, the company has solidified its position as a leader in the baking industry. As the industry continues to evolve, URC Flour remains at the forefront, empowering bakers to “rise and shine” with their exceptional creations.

    The FCBAI BAKERY FAIR 2025 has provided a platform for URC Flour to showcase their commitment to the baking community. Their SIKAT theme, combine with the fair’s RISE AND SHINE focus, has created a powerful message of empowerment and inspiration. By providing high quality flour and unwavering support, URC flour is helping bakers across the nation to truly shine.

  • Philippine Book Festival 2025: BIGGER, BETTER, IN A NEW LOCATION

    Philippine Book Festival 2025: BIGGER, BETTER, IN A NEW LOCATION

    Join the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2025: Bigger, Better & New Location.

    MAKATI, PHILIPPINES – The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s biggest all-Filipino book festival is back – this time in a new location that is accessible to many. This year’s PBF will be happening at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, City, from March 13 – 16, 2025.

    Registration is FREE for the four-day book festival, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB). Every year, this project puts Philippine Books at the center if a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with your favorite authors.

    “In just over a month, we are bringing back the Philippine Book Festival. Now in its third year, the PBF started in 2023 as an attempt to create the largest marketplace for Philippine books that the country has yet to see. Now, it has become an important annual gathering for families, educators, creatives, and avid readers – all in the name of Philippine books.” said Charisse Aquino – Tugade, NBDB Executive Director.

    The PBF’s third edition promises to be more exciting, putting the spotlight on the country’s famnous festivals, each one designed by some of the best and brightest Filipino artists working today.

    THE CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE PBF 2025 REALMS. NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade with National Artist and Scriptwriter Ricky Lee together with the artists of PBF 2025 Realms, Paul Eric Roca, Danielle Florendo, Joffrey “Pepot”Atienza and Juno Abreau.

    The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF’s section dedicated to children’s literature), designed by Juno Abreau, and the Komiks realm inspired by the famous Tuna Festival in General Santos City, with design by illustrator and painter Paul Eric Roca. Aral Aklat, the section dedicated to text \books, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbenga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, non-fiction and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.

    The festive atmosphere is made all the more exciting as the PBF 2025 moves to a new venue – at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall. The NBDB believes this fresh location will bring new energy to the festival and draw and even larger audience.

    “The decision to move the PBF to a different and smaller venue is definitely a bold one. We hope to offset that with the venue’s accessibility and generate higher foot traffic, as well as provide convenience for more visitors from other areas” shared Tugade.

    The PBF is the largest all-Filipino book fair in the country and is one of the NBDB’s flagship programs. NBDB, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this June has amped its readership efforts in the past four years, shifting to solutions-based programming to improve trade and distribution. Concerned with the lack of quality Philippine-authored books in libraries and bookstores across the country, Aguino-Tugade spearheaded the PBF in 2023, a retail activation space that celebrates Philippine books while bringing in revenue for publishing professionals.

    The fair also showcases the creme dela creme of Philippine literature, culture, and content – all situated in an engaging, experienced-based setting that fuses entertainment, education, and learning. Positioning PBF as a favorite pastime (reading) among Filipinos, all for a good cause.

    For complete details, visit the official FaceBook page of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) https://www.facebook.com/NBDBPhilippines

  • CHEF Al’s Baking Secrets with URC Flour

    CHEF Al’s Baking Secrets with URC Flour

    URC Flour’s Baking Secrets of CHEF AI.

    The FCBAI Bakery Fair is back, and this year, the theme “RISE and Shine” couldn’t be more fitting with thousands of bakers from different parts of the world flocked to the World Trade Center for a 3-day baking exhibit.

    This year’s fair is a celebration of resilience and innovation in the baking industry, a testament to the bakers who have weathered challenges and emerged stronger. URC Flour Brand Ambassador Chef Aileen Asilom more popularly known as Chef Ai, graced this year’s Bakery Fair and led the bakery demonstration at the URC Flour booth.

    Chef Aileen’s story is one of inspiration. From her modest beginnings, fueled by a deep love for baking, she has risen to become a respected figure, known for her dedication to sharing her knowledge and empowering fellow bakers. Her journey resonates with many, making her the perfect face for URC Flour, a brand committed to providing quality ingredients for every baker’s dream.

    URC Flour’s booth concept “SIKAT” reinforced the RISE and SHINE theme of this year’s Bakery Fair. Chef Ai’s path to being a successful baker is a story itself of passion and perseverance.

    Choosing the Right Flour

    Chef Ai emphasizes the importance of selecting the appropriate flour for each recipe. “URC Flour offers a diverse range, from the versatile All-Purpose Flour to the robust Hard Flour for breads and the delicate Cake Flour for pastries,” she explains. “Understanding the characteristics of each variant is crucial for achieving the desired texture and outcome” added Chef Ai. She often recommends using URC’s hard flour for breads that need a good rise and chew, and their cake flour for light and airy cakes.

    Chef Ai conducted live baking demonstrations together with other expert bakers,showcasing their signature recipes and innovative techniques, all using URC Flour. Attendees were able to witness firsthand the URC Flour quality products featuring DAISY, GLOBE, CONTINENTAL, SAMPAGUITA, BLEND 100 and CATTLEYA among others.

    The baking demonstration also features baking equipment from Vesmach Hyundai Home Appliances while ingredients for the delicious baked goods are courtesy of Anchor Food Professionals, Sugar King Industries, Oleo-Fats Inc. and Neco Philippines, Inc.

    In collaboration with URC Flour, Chef Ai curated a selection of recipes, featuring both classic favorites and modern creations, that were given to booth attendees to take home and recreate.

    URC Flour: A Partner in Success:

    Chef Al’s passion extends beyond her own creations. She believes in sharing her knowledge and inspiring others to embark on their baking journeys. “Baking is a gift that should be shared,” she says. “Through my partnership with URC Flour, | hope to empower bakers of all levels to create delicious memories.” Chef Ai’s partnership with URC Flour is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and its dedication to supporting the baking community. “URC Flour is more than just an ingredient; it’s a partner in my baking journey,” she concludes.

  • Cetaphil Introduces 2025 Brand Ambassadors and Reintroduces Trusted Advocates with Personal Skin Stories at Cetaphil SkinLabs

    Cetaphil Introduces 2025 Brand Ambassadors and Reintroduces Trusted Advocates with Personal Skin Stories at Cetaphil SkinLabs

    Who are the Cetaphil 2025 Brad Ambassadors and Trusted Advocates with Personal Skin Stories at Cetaphil SkinLabs?

    Cetaphil, the renowned dermatologist-recommended skincare brand for sensitive skin, announced the newest additions to its lineup of brand ambassadors for 2025 during the Cetaphil SkinLabs event.

    The immersive and educational experience focused on sensitive skincare, coupled with the unveiling of Cetaphil’s re-brand, underscored the brand’s commitment to providing trustworthy, expert-backed skincare solutions.

    The stellar lineup of Cetaphil’s esteemed roster of ambassadors features Catriona Gray, Atasha Muhlach, and the newest ambassador, Donny Pangilinan.

    Rounding up the current list of endorsers are Anne Curtis, Solenn Heussaff, Nico Bolzico and Jess Wilson. Also in attendance were Bianca Gonzalez, Andi Manzano, Bea Fabregas and Ella and Hannah Pangilinan. Together, these voices unite to promote the brand’s message of safe, effective, and gentle skincare tailored for sensitive skin.

    The Role of Brand Ambassadors in Cetaphil’s Advocacy

    In an era where misinformation about skincare runs rampant across social media, Cetaphil recognizes the importance of bridging the knowledge gap in dermatology and skincare science. By collaborating with a diverse group of trusted personalities, the brand leverages their voices and platforms to counteract misinformation and empower consumers with dermatologist-approved advice.

    “At Cetaphil, we understand that sensitive skin is personal—everyone experiences it differently. That’s why we partner with brand ambassadors who not only experience sensitive skin themselves but also have unique skin stories that their followers can relate to,” said Louie Roxas, General Manager of Cetaphil Philippines. “By sharing their journeys, they help us spread dermatologist-approved advice and empower more people to care for their skin with confidence.”

    Personal Skin Stories and Connection to Cetaphil

    Beyond their advocacy roles, each ambassador shared their personal skin stories and connection to the brand at the Cetaphil SkinLabs event. From Catriona’s longstanding trust in Cetaphil for her on-the-go lifestyle to Donny Pangilinan’s journey with sensitive skin, these authentic narratives highlight why Cetaphil remains a cornerstone in many skincare routines.

    “Being here was meant to be,” said Donny Pangilinan. The young actor shared how he and his sisters all grew up using the brand. “We are proud Cetaphil babies. Growing up we all had sensitive skin, so our mom would always apply the products to hydrate and protect our skin. I’m so happy to be here, and I’m looking forward to this journey.”

    The Cetaphil SkinLabs Experience

    Cetaphil SkinLabs brought the brand’s dermatologist-backed research to life with an interactive and educational experience. Attendees learned about the science of sensitive skincare and were among the first to witness Cetaphil’s rebranding, designed to highlight the brand’s legacy of innovation and trust.

    “Cetaphil’s mission to make good skincare for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, is why they are my go-to brand,” said Gray, who, in addition to being a loyal user of Cetaphil also appreciated the science-first mindset of the event. “I was surprised to learn that the Philippines number 6 globally in terms of having sensitive skin, and the only Southeast Asian country in the top 10 list.”

    For more information on Cetaphil and the new rebranding initiative, visit Cetaphil, follow @CetaphilPH on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Cetaphil products are available at Watsons, Mercury Drug, leading e-commerce platforms, and other key retailers.

    About Cetaphil

    Cetaphil is the global leader in sensitive skincare, trusted by dermatologists and millions of consumers worldwide. Dedicated to advancing skin science, Cetaphil develops gentle yet effective products designed to support and protect the skin’s barrier, ensuring everyone can enjoy healthy, radiant skin.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    CETAPHIL PR

  • Pamulinawen Festival 2025: PREVAIL! – Baro A Laoag Street Dance Competition 2025

    Baro A Laoag Street Dance Competition 2025 was held on February 10, 2025 at J. P. Rizal St. (In front of Aurora Park & Ilocos Norte Capitol), City of Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

    Pamulinawen Festival 2025’s Baro A Laoag Street Dance Competition 2025 was performed by eleven (11) Secondary Schools in Laoag City with Dance Challenge and Dance Showdown in the city’s main street with a dazzling display of artistry and tradition.

    Congratulations to all the winners of Baro A Laoag Street Dance Competition 2025 :

    Special Award:

    Miss Pamulinawen Festival Queen – Contestant No. 7, Northwestern University

    Consolation Winners:

    Contingent No. 10

    Buttong Integrated School

    Contingent No. 3

    Caaoacan High School

    Contingent No. 11

    Ilocos Norte Regional School of Fisheries

    Contingent No. 8

    Data Center College of the Philippines

    Contingent No. 1

    Gabu National High School

    Contingent No. 5

    San Mateo Integrated School

    Contingent No. 9

    Mariano Marcos State University Laboratory High School

    Contingent No. 7

    Northwestern University High School Department

    2nd Runner-up: Contingent No. 2

    Balatong Integrated School

    1st Runner-up: Contingent No. 4

    Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trades

    Champion: Contingent No. 6

    Ilocos Norte National High School

    The Board of Judges in both the street dance and showdown competitions are Mr. Jonas V. Dizon from Pangasinan, Prof. Restituto Dagupan City, Mr. Geo Patrick Buenavista from Sta. Praxedes, Cagayan, Dr. Lloyd Rosquita of DepEd Ilocos Norte, Ms. R.E. Guerrero Brillantes from Vigan City, Mr. Joshua Isidera of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Mr. Rodel Mayor Fronda the Chairman of the Philippine Folk Dance Society.

    The organizers and the production team was headed by Atty. Charito Malicad, City Tourism of Laoag Officer and Production Team, Direk Anthony “Tonton” Salva, the Creative Director, and Mr. Janjan Carbonell, Overall Choreographer.

    REFERENCES:

    Hon. Michael Marcos Keon, Mayor of City of Laoag

    City Government of Laoag

    #BaroALaoag #BagongPilipinas #LaoagCity #PamulinawenFestival2025 #Prevail

  • DOST – NCR FoodBitz Webinar on Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP)

    DOST – NCR FoodBitz Webinar on Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP)

    Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – National Capital Region (NCR) has conducted a FoodBitz Webinar on Basics of Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP) on February 11, 2025, Thursday, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM., Virtual via Zoom Teleconference, with Resource Speaker, Mr. Carlos Antonio M. Pena, PFT, Science Research Specialist II, DOST-National Capital Region.

    I participated the DOST-NCR (Foodbitz Webinar) to gain insights and knowledge about the Basics of Sanitation Standard Operating Procedure (SSOP).

    The SSOP Learning Objectives are as follows:

    1. Understand basic principles of cleaning and sanitation.
    2. Appreciate the role of SSOP in food safety management systems.
    3. Enumerate sanitation controls.
    4. Draft a sample SSOP and SSOP plan.
    5. Identify and understand SSOP components.

    The Topic Outline includes:

    I. SSOP in food safety management system.

    II. Basic principles in cleaning and sanitation.

    III. Sanitation controls.

    IV. SSOP control checks and verification.

    V. SSOP development and SSOP plan.

    Sanitation Standard Operating Procedure (SSOP) is a detailed written procedures that describe cleaning and sanitation procedures and practices that an establishment develops and implements to prevent direct contamination or adulteration of products (USDA, 2023).

    In the webinar, I’ve learned the importance of cleaning and sanitizing in Food Establishments. Cleaning removes visible contamination such as food waste, dirt and grease from a surface. In sanitizing, Sanitation kills microorganisms, thereby reducing the numbers of microorganisms present on a surface.

    The DOST-NCR issued a Certificate of Participation for participating in “Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures” conducted on February 11, 2025 via Zoom Videoconferencing Application.

    #OneDOST4U #DOST #DOSTNCR #BagongPilipinas