DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • PEPA Celebrates 75 Years of Developing Filipino Textbooks

    PEPA Celebrates 75 Years of Developing Filipino Textbooks

    The Philippine Educational Publishers Association (PEPA) recognized its achievements and honored its partners during its 75th anniversary held last December 5, 2025 at the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas.

    Highlights of the event entitled HONORING THE PAST, CELEBRATING THE PRESENT AND PUBLISHING IN THE FUTURE, were presentation of plaques to HONORABLE SENATOR SHERWIN GATCHALIAN, SENATOR RODANTE MARCOLETA, HONORABLE CONGRESSMEN ANTONIO CERILLES and RUFUS RODRIGUEZ, and ATTY RODELIO T. DASCIL who were instrumental in the legislation of the Book Industry Development Act (RA 8047). Plaques were likewise presented to government and private agencies like the DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, the NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD, the PRIVATE EDUCATION ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE and the CATHOLIC EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES.

    Past PEPA presidents Dr. Ernesto Sibal, Jesus Ernesto Sibal, Jose Agaton Sibal, Atty. Dominador Buhain, Jose Maria “Toots” Policarpio and current president Jose Paolo Sibal were likewise given awards for their service and dedication to the Association.

    SENATOR SHERWIN GATCHALIAN, was recognized for his diligence in pushing for educational reforms as the then Chairman of the Senate Education Committee in the 19th Congress. In his acceptance speech, Senator Gatchalian reiterated his position that the public schools be permitted to select the textbooks best suited for their students and their conditions, citing the practice of private schools whose textbooks are chosen by the subject coordinators and teachers.

    Speaking for PEPA, President Emeritus Dominador Buhain stated that the good senator’s proposed solution for providing each public school student with a set of textbooks through liberalized procurement is being adopted by advanced countries with high ratings in international assessments like China, Japan, Finland and Singapore, whose students score high in international assessments like PISA. Senator Gatchalian lamented the delays in textbook allocation for public schools which are caused by a centralized procurement process.

    Senator Gatchalian,, a product of the private school system , even sees no opposition on the adoption of procurement program in the private schools due to their perceived accessibility and presumptive quality of textbooks to be adopted (brought out by competitive market forces where quality prevails) within a shorter time frame.

    He believes that with the enhanced DEPED budget, his earlier estimated P28 billion peso allocation mentioned in 2024 would be sufficient to provide one textbook per subject per student. Possessing a textbook instead of having none due to bureaucratic delay could serve as a better proposition to improve our standing in the PISA.

    Unfortunately, the procurement for textbooks for SY 2025-2026 in some grade levels has been delayed by new procurement guidelines under RA 12009.

    Senator Sherwin Gatchalian receives a Plaque of Recognition during the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Philippine Educational Publishers Association (PEPA). Joining him (from left) are Danda Crimelda Buhain and Atty. Dominador Buhain of Rex Education; Jose Paolo Sibal of Phoenix Publishing House; and John Emyl Eugenio of C&E Publishing Inc.

    As PEPA looks forward to another seven decades of service to the Filipino learner, it is resolved to meet the rigorous demands of knowledge production for the diverse learning needs of Philippine schools.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Mr. Richard Mamuyac

  • Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide

    Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide

    Coca-Cola illuminates sites to spread bright Christmas magic nationwide this year.

    Christmas is a cherished tradition in the Philippines that embodies joy, hope, and togetherness. It’s a time when families reunite, communities come alive with parol and carols, and even the simplest gatherings become moments of magic.

    Staying true to the spirit of spreading happiness all year round, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country—brings to life its highly anticipated annual Christmas light-up across its sites.

    This year, over 30 CCEAP sites in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao shines bright with the theme “Bituin ng Pag-asa: Guiding Light for a Brighter Future.” Each lighted site serves as a beacon of festive cheer and Filipino spirit, celebrating the enduring hope that binds communities and uplifts spirits.

    This long-standing tradition honors the total beverage company’s nearly 9,000-strong workforce, whose dedication ensures that Coca-Cola products reach homes and its customers—keeping communities refreshed every single day.

    The annual Christmas light-up has turned Coca-Cola’s sites into local attractions nationwide, drawing visitors and hosting shared moments among friends and families. Among the sites are Naga, Santa Rosa, Calasiao, Iloilo, Misamis Oriental, and Davao. In Santa Rosa, the light-up complements its iconic landmark of giant Coca-Cola cans, making it a must-see destination during the holidays.

    Associates at Coca-Cola’s Calasiao Plant smile as they transform the site into a festive spectacle. This is part of CCEAP’s yearly tradition of coming together to light up their different sites to spread Christmas cheer.

    Festive lights illuminate the Coca-Cola Tarlac Distribution Center, celebrating the joy and hope that its associates bring communities year-round.

    Each light-up installation was conceptualized by CCEAP associates, and uses ornaments handcrafted using recycled and upcycled materials. These displays reflect what makes a Filipino Christmas truly special: making celebrations meaningful by finding joy in the simple act of coming together. Adding to the festive spirit, the iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck continues its journey across the country, spreading the magic of Christmas wherever it goes.

    Coca-Cola’s Ilocos Plant shines bright as it’s decked with Christmas decorations conceptualized and handcrafted by Coca-Cola associates.

    In celebrating Christmas, CCEAP also honors the passion and perseverance that carried communities through challenging times, including the numerous natural disasters that the country has faced this year. CCEAP stands alongside the communities it serves in times of need by mobilizing relief efforts, ensuring the safety of its people, and delivering safe drinking water and essential supplies to those affected.

    “In every challenge Filipinos faced this year, there was always a reason to hold on to hope, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication and support of our people and the communities we serve,” said Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCEAP. “As we continue the Coca-Cola tradition of lighting up our sites, we aim to spark joy and serve as a beacon of hope not just for the holidays, but as we look ahead to a brighter, more promising tomorrow. Because even in the most difficult times, hope shines brightest when people come together,” added McGeown.

    Having been woven into the fabric of Filipino culture for over 113 years, CCEAP has been an integral part of Filipino festivities—from beloved beverages enjoyed during everyday occasions to delivering refreshment, sparking shared moments, and bringing an extra light to life during the holidays.

    CCEAP is locally rooted and deeply connected to the communities it serves, with products proudly made by Filipinos, for Filipinos. With a vast footprint spanning 18 manufacturing sites, and nearly 70 distribution and sales offices, CCEAP remains committed to uplifting communities nationwide all year round.

    About Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)

    Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP)—the bottling partner and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the Philippines — operates across 18 manufacturing facilities and almost 70 distribution centers and sales offices nationwide, offering 20 brands in its beverage portfolio and employing around 9,000 Filipinos. Formerly Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), CCEAP is jointly owned by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) following the completed acquisition on 23 February 2024. CCEAP remains committed to its vision of refreshing Filipinos and making a difference across the Philippines through its great people, great beverages, great execution, and great partners, all while keeping sustainability at the heart of its operations.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Ericka Louise

    Media and Influencer Relations Officer

    ARDENT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

  • Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters

    Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters

    Leading insurer partners with LRT-1 to provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters throughout December 2025. Malayan Insurance Co., Inc. (MICO), one of the country’s leading non-life insurance providers, has partnered with LRT-1 to power a month-long holiday campaign.

    This initiative offers complimentary Personal Accident (PA) insurance coverage to LRT-1 commuters throughout the entire month of December. The initiative, dubbed “The Gift of Protection,” aims to provide peace of mind to thousands of Filipino commuters during the busiest travel season of the year, when millions rush through Metro Manila’s railways for holiday shopping, year-end gatherings, and trips to provincial bus terminals for the Christmas break.

    “December is the most hectic time for Filipino commuters—carrying gifts, rushing to catch buses home, navigating crowded stations,” said Eden Tesoro, Chief Operating Officer of Malayan Insurance. “We wanted to cut through the holiday chaos with a meaningful gesture that reminds Filipinos that protection isn’t an expense—it’s a gift, and one we’re honored to give this Christmas season.”

    The campaign features a full station takeover at LRT-1’s Gil Puyat Station, a key transit point for commuters heading to Makati’s business districts and nearby provincial bus terminals. A fully-wrapped LRT-1 train will also traverse the line throughout December, spreading the message of safety and protection across the metro. Commuters can avail of the complimentary PA insurance coverage by simply scanning QR codes displayed throughout Gil Puyat Station and on the branded train.

    The seamless digital process requires only basic information—name and mobile number—and issues a digital policy certificate instantly. “This partnership with LRT-1 allows us to meet Filipinos where they are, literally,” Tesoro added. “We want to bring protection to the forefront during a time they need it most; that’s what future-proofing protection means to us.” The campaign reflects Malayan Insurance’s broader commitment to making insurance more accessible and relevant to everyday Filipinos, shifting the perception of insurance from a burdensome expense to a caring investment in one’s safety and future.

    The “Gift of Protection” campaign runs through the whole of December 2025, at LRT-1 Gil Puyat Station and aboard one roaming fully-wrapped train car.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Malayan PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • Estancia de Lorenzo Kicks Off Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting

    Estancia de Lorenzo Kicks Off Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting

    Why Estancia de Lorenzo kicks off the Christmas Season with Dazzling Village Lighting?

    Estancia de Lorenzo celebrated the start of the holiday season with a successful Christmas Village Lighting event, filled with festive activities and community spirit.

    The day featured a vibrant “Samu’t Sari Bazaar” with non-food vendors, alongside the opening of food concessionaires and classic Filipino games. The Brass and Percussion Symphonic Band provided lively entertainment throughout the afternoon.

    Ms. Leah Durante, Sales, Marketing, and Events Manager at Estancia de Lorenzo, warmly welcomed guests. A key moment was the announcement of the “Virtual Parol” Project beneficiary by Business Director Ms. Katrina Lorenzo-Casajeros, which highlighted the company’s commitment to community support.

    Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Libad Dancers of Guinayang High School delivered a special Christmas dance performance. In commemoration of Estancia de Lorenzo’s 9th Founding Anniversary, an AVP showcasing the resort’s milestones and the 2024 “Pamaskong Handog” Project was presented. COO Ms. Marietta Lorenzo shared a heartfelt message of gratitude with attendees.

    The evening continued with exciting raffle prizes and a song performance by Ms. Jackie, culminating in the highly anticipated announcement of the “Dine to Win” Grand Prize Winner.

    The highlight of the night was the Christmas Village Lighting, which illuminated the resort and officially launched the Christmas season at Estancia de Lorenzo.

    Discover more about Estancia de Lorenzo’s “Pasko Salubong” and New Year’s Eve Countdown by visiting their official social media accounts:

    • Facebook: Estancia de Lorenzo-Rizal
    • Instagram: @estanciadelorenzo.official
    • TikTok: Estancia de Lorenzo Rizal
    • Website: estanciadelorenzo.ph

    Important Reminder: For your security, please conduct all transactions exclusively through our official website and verified Facebook pages.

    Reference & Media Contacts:

    Ms. Jen Pagalilauan

    Mr. Richard Mamuyac

  • Literacy and Disability Inclusion Advocate Zacarias Mansing Jr. Crowned Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy Among 500,000 Entries Nationwide

    Literacy and Disability Inclusion Advocate Zacarias Mansing Jr. Crowned Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2025 Happiest Pinoy Among 500,000 Entries Nationwide

    Recently, Cebuana Lhuillier has officially named Zacarias Mansing Jr., a passionate literacy and disability inclusion advocate, as the 2025 Happiest Pinoy. His remarkable journey of transforming personal adversity into a nationwide mission for children’s literacy resonated deeply across the country. Selected from more than 500,000 entries, his win marks one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of Cebuana Lhuillier’s pioneering advocacy.

    The awarding ceremony, held last December 2, 2025 at Dusit Thani Manila, highlighted the depth and diversity of this year’s competition. Zacarias first emerged as one of the ten national category winners before advancing to the final round, where he stood alongside inspiring finalists representing youth and senior citizens, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, OFWs, members of the workforce, the LGBTQ+ community, creatives, indigenous peoples, and Cebuana Lhuillier clients.

    A distinguished panel of judges—comprising public servants, media professionals, social innovators, athletes, and former Happiest Pinoy awardees—evaluated the finalists through a comprehensive process rooted in four criteria: Resilience; Optimism and Genuine Happiness; Champion of Hope and Impact; and an X-Factor reflecting authenticity.

    Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier Inc., emphasized the significance of Zacarias’s win: “Zacarias reminds us that true strength is not the absence of hardship but the courage to lift others as we rise. His life—rooted in faith, grit, and service—captures exactly what the Happiest Pinoy seeks to celebrate: joy that transforms communities and inspires lasting change.”

    Zacarias’s story is a testament to that strength. After an accident abroad in 2012 left him paralyzed, he returned home determined to turn his challenges into purpose. Guided by his DRISO values—Determination, Resilience, Inspiration, Service, and Optimism—he launched the Books for Kids Project in 2017. From his wheelchair, he has traveled to more than 300 remote public schools and reached over 50,000 students, championing literacy, disability inclusion, and hope across Negros Oriental. “Being a Happiest Pinoy is about having a spirit that trusts God in all circumstances, and hands that are always ready to reach out to those in need,” he shared. Zacarias’s triumph is more than a personal victory—it is a powerful reminder that purpose can emerge from pain, and that one person’s resolve can ignite lasting change. His work continues to inspire communities, uplift young learners, and strengthen the movement that Cebuana Lhuillier began: a celebration of joy that endures, heals, and transforms

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Cebuana PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • Rex Education Honored with Two Major Wins at the 47th CMMA Awards

    Rex Education Honored with Two Major Wins at the 47th CMMA Awards

    Rex Education achieved another significant milestone with two major recognitions at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards held on November 19, 2025 at the Citystate Hotel Tower in Ermita, Manila. The awards highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to producing educational content that informs, inspires, and nurtures the mind and the heart of every Filipino learner.

    REX received the Best Children’s Magazine award for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon award for the piece published in Sinag/The Catalyst titled “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” These honors emphasize the importance of educational materials that blend academic relevance with creative and responsible storytelling and meaningful social reflection.

    PHOTOS CAPTION: REX proudly receives two awards at the 47th CMMA Awards: Best Children’s Magazine for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon for the Sinag/The Catalyst piece “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” Photo credit to Catholic Mass Media Award

    In the field of education, values-driven and thoughtfully crafted media remain essential in helping learners understand themselves, their communities, and the world around them. Publications such as The Bread Basket support children in developing empathy and curiosity through stories that speak to their experiences. Editorial works like the award-winning cartoon in Sinag/The Catalyst encourage students to think critically about current issues in ways that are clear and accessible. These contributions uplift, guide, and help build character of young readers toward becoming informed and responsible citizens.

    These recognitions serve as a quiet but powerful affirmation of the work that happens every day within REX’s creative and editorial teams. Behind each publication are authors, editors, illustrators, and partners who approach their craft with purpose and a deep understanding of the role education plays in shaping learners and communities. Their passion allows REX to produce content that inspires curiosity, encourages reflection, and fosters conversations that lead to growth.

    The Catholic Mass Media Awards have long recognized media that uplifts, guides, and forms values, and to be counted among its honorees reinforces REX’s commitment to continually raise the standard of learning materials in the Philippines and to contribute to the development of content that strengthens values formation.

    PHOTOS CAPTION: REX proudly receives two awards at the 47th CMMA Awards: Best Children’s Magazine for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon for the Sinag/The Catalyst piece “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” Photo credit to Catholic Mass Media Award

    REX extends its heartfelt thanks to the Catholic Mass Media Awards for this recognition and to the entire REX community whose dedication makes achievements like these possible. As the organization continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower Filipino learners and help shape a future rooted in truth, compassion, and lifelong learning.

    The Rex Education Honored with Two Major Wins at the 47th CMMA Awards is a recent Press Release.

    Reference:

    Mr. Richard C. Mamuyac

  • Sterling Bank of Asia Upholds Environmental Commitment through “Kind Heart Gives” Tree Planting Activity

    Sterling Bank of Asia Upholds Environmental Commitment through “Kind Heart Gives” Tree Planting Activity

    Sterling Bank of Asia has recently announced that their employees take part in the “Kind Heart Gives” tree planting activity at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City.

    Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement through this year’s “Kind Heart Gives” tree-planting initiative held at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City. The event brought together employees from various organizations who joined SBA in its corporate social responsibility efforts, underscoring the Bank’s shared mission to make a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

    The activity went beyond simply planting trees—it fostered camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of collective purpose among SBA employees. It encouraged participants to take part in meaningful initiatives that advocate for a sustainable future. “Our ‘Kind Heart Gives’ activity reflects Sterling Bank of Asia’s support for sustainability and our values of being socially active in good causes,” said Dan Guevara, SBA’s Center for Learning Head and First Vice President. “We are proud to see our employees engage in projects that go beyond the workplace—efforts that show our dedication to both people and the planet.”

    As SBA continues to grow as a financial institution, it remains steadfast in its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen. Through initiatives like “Kind Heart Gives,” employees contribute not only to environmental restoration but also to strengthening SBA’s culture of compassion, volunteerism, and shared responsibility.

    Reference Media Contact:

    SBA PR

  • Haier Launches Its First Half Marathon, Drawing 2,500 Runners in a Powerful Showcase of Fitness, Innovation, and Community Care

    Haier Launches Its First Half Marathon, Drawing 2,500 Runners in a Powerful Showcase of Fitness, Innovation, and Community Care

    Haier Philippines successfully staged its inaugural Haier Half Marathon 2025, gathering 2,500 runners, families, fitness groups, and partner organizations for a vibrant celebration of wellness and community service. More than just a sporting event, the marathon highlighted Haier’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles while extending meaningful support to local communities.

    This year’s run championed a special cause through Haier’s CSR initiative for the Father Saturnino Home for the Elderly. As part of its advocacy on community care, Haier will provide essential goods and food supplies to help sustain the daily needs of the elderly residents. The initiative reflects Haier’s belief that true innovation is most impactful when it uplifts lives, especially those in vulnerable sectors.

    The event featured 21K, 10K, and 5K race categories, encouraging participants of all skill levels to push their limits and enjoy a safe, well-managed route supported by hydration stations, medical teams, and lively on-ground entertainment.

    Adding to the excitement, runners and spectators immersed themselves in Haier’s interactive product activity zones, which offered fun games, challenges, and engaging appliance demonstrations. Participants enjoyed hands-on experiences with Haier’s latest innovations and took home exciting freebies and exclusive giveaways, making the marathon not just a race but a full lifestyle experience.

    Supported by Valued Sponsors and Partners

    Haier Philippines extends its gratitude to its event sponsors and partners, whose support ensured a seamless, energetic, and memorable experience for all participants.

    A Run Toward a Better Tomorrow

    With the success of the Haier Half Marathon 2025, Haier strengthens its long-term mission to champion wellness, inspire active living, and expands its community development initiatives.

    The brand looks forward to creating more platforms where innovation, compassion, and community spirit come together.

    For Haier Philippines, the message is clear:

    When people run with purpose, entire communities move forward.

    The Haier Run 2025 Half Marathon: For Future Possibilities, was held on November 15, 2025 at Block 20, MOA Complex, Seaside Blvd., Pasay City.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia