DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • Celebrating Future Educators: REX and UP Honors Outstanding Graduates of UP College of Education with Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence

    Celebrating Future Educators: REX and UP Honors Outstanding Graduates of UP College of Education with Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence

    Rex Education recently recognized the exceptional achievements of the 2025 graduating class of the University of the Philippines College of Education by presenting the REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence to this year’s summa cum laude graduates.

    Earning the distinction of summa cum laude is no small feat. It demands years of discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—not just in academics, but in personal growth and service to others. For students in the College of Education, the journey is especially challenging. It means mastering one’s field of specialization while also honing the patience, empathy, and communication skills that the teaching profession requires. Many balance these demands alongside community involvement, part-time work, or family responsibilities, making their success even more remarkable.

    Understanding the importance of recognizing this hard work, Rex Education, in partnership with the University of the Philippines College of Education, presented the REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence to nine members of the 2025 graduating class. The award recognizes students who graduated summa cum laude and highlights their academic achievement and readiness to enter the teaching profession.

    The 2025 award recipients are the following:

    ● Jacob Renz R. Ambrocio—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Biology Education

    ● Carla Denise M. Borlongan—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Sean Mikkail Nolasco D. Capili—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Biology Education

    ● Jana Mykah G. Diaz—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Early Education

    ● Leni Noelle L. Garcia—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Alyssa Anne M. Liao—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Jeneva Rose S. Narrido—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in English Language Education; minor in Filipino Language Education

    ● Yuji L. Santos—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Varon D. Tabajonda—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Special Education

    The REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence is part of REX’s enduring mission to strengthen the education sector by celebrating outstanding graduates who have shown steadfast dedication to their studies and to the calling of teaching. It carries with it the hope that they will be inspired and encouraged to continue their teaching journey, sharing their talents with schools and contributing to the growth of the Filipino learners, communities, and the country.

    As Rex Education celebrates its 75th anniversary, this recognition also reaffirms its steadfast commitment to be a katuwang of every Filipino learner in their lifelong learning journey. By uplifting these young achievers, REX continues to invest in the future of education, nurturing those who will one day carry forward the mission of teaching with the same passion and service—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

    Congratulations, Edukampyons!

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Richard C. Mamuyac

  • Architect Gilbert Yu shares three lessons for the next generation of designers: Book launch celebrates a life built from zero to skyscrapers

    Architect Gilbert Yu shares three lessons for the next generation of designers: Book launch celebrates a life built from zero to skyscrapers

    Celebrated architect and developer Gilbert Yu is inspiring the next generation of architects with hard-earned wisdom drawn from over three decades in the industry. Known for his pioneering iconic projects, Yu distills his experience into essential lessons for future practitioners.

    Yu sums up the lessons in his biography The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu, written by award-winning journalist Iris Gonzales.

    The book tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams. It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

    A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

    Some lessons he wants to impart to architects:

    Lesson 1: Architecture goes beyond design
    “Architecture is not just about designing structures—it’s about building lives,” Yu said. “Every structure must have purpose, be designed with excellence, and built for permanence.”

    Lesson 2: Architects must be knowledgeable in business
    Yu believes architects should understand property value, project feasibility, and market trends to ensure success. “Architects must also be development consultants, not just technical people,” he noted, urging schools to integrate business and entrepreneurship into architectural education.

    Lesson 3: Architects must be forward-thinking
    Designs should anticipate shifts in landscapes, lifestyles, and technology, enabling structures to stand the test of time.

    Yu’s philosophy can be summed up in his personal mantra: “Zero plus zero plus zero equals 100.”Starting with no knowledge, no experience and no resources, he built a thriving career and landmark projects through determination and resilience.

    “A project starts from zero before becoming an iconic landmark,” Yu said. “With vision and dedication, architects can transform the impossible into reality.”

    About the Book

    The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams.

    It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

    A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Architect Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

    About Architect Gilbert Yu

    Architect Gilbert Yu is a respected Filipino architect and developer best known for creating quality residential projects in prime locations.

    Starting from humble beginnings as one of nine children of a sari-sari store owner, Yu worked his way through school and became a licensed architect in 1970. He co-founded G&W Architects, which delivered several landmark developments in Bonifacio Global City,  including Sapphire Residences, Kensington Place, Grand Hamptons, and Blue Sapphire.

    Throughout his career, Architect Yu has been an advocate for housing affordability, high construction standards, and consumer protection in the real estate industry.

    About the Author: Ms. Iris Gonzales

    Iris Gonzales is a journalist and columnist for The Philippine Star.  Her thrice-weekly op-ed column, Eyes Wide Open, explores the intersection of business and politics in the Philippines. She graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication in Diliman and earned her master’s degree in journalism as a Konrad Adenauer Fellow at Ateneo de Manila University.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Divine Reyes

  • Manila Water strengthens call for desludging in August to prevent post-flood health risks

    Manila Water strengthens call for desludging in August to prevent post-flood health risks

    In the wake of recent typhoons and the intensified habagat that brought widespread flooding across Luzon, Manila Water is intensifying its August desludging campaign to help communities recover and prevent post-flood health hazards.

    Serving over 7.8 million customers, Manila Water’s East Zone concession area remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather. The company is increasing its septic tank cleaning service, which is provided at no additional cost to customers, to help households avoid the risks of wastewater overflow and contamination.

    This August, the desludging service will be available in barangays Mayamot and San Jose in Antipolo City; San Pedro and San Guillermo in Morong, Rizal; San Isidro and San Juan in Taytay, Rizal; San Pedro in Angono, Rizal; Layunan, Libis, Libid, and Mambog in Binangonan, Rizal; San Jose and San Isidro in Montalban (Rodriguez), Rizal; Ampid II, Banaba, Gulod Malaya, and Silangan in San Mateo, Rizal; Rosario and Santolan in Pasig City; Palingon in Taguig City; Alicia, Bagong Pag-asa, Damayang Lagi, Dioguino Zobel, Holy Spirit, Libis, Loyola Heights, Nayong Kanluran, New Era, Ramon Magsaysay, San Roque, and San Martin de Porres in Quezon City; Industrial Valley Complex in Marikina City; San Perfecto, Pedro Cruz, Pasadena, Ermitanyo, and Balong Bato in San Juan City; Tejeros in Makati City; and Burol in Mandaluyong.

    “After heavy rains and flooding, septic systems are more vulnerable to overflows and contamination. Desludging is a simple but powerful way to protect your family’s health and the environment,” said Jeric Sevilla, Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director of Manila Water.

    Unmaintained septic tanks pose serious health threats after flooding. When tanks are full or compromised, floodwaters can carry untreated sewage into homes, streets, and water sources. This increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A, and leptospirosis, as well as skin infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. Regular desludging helps prevent these hazards by ensuring septic systems function properly even during heavy rains.

    Residents are encouraged to coordinate with their barangay councils or call the Manila Water Hotline 1627 to check their schedule.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Novo Nordisk partners with ORA for digital obesity care program in the country

    Novo Nordisk partners with ORA for digital obesity care program in the country

    Novo Nordisk and ORA officially seal their partnership to revolutionize obesity care in the Philippines through telehealth. The collaboration brings together Novo Nordisk’s clinical expertise and ORA’s fully digital care platform to offer end-to-end obesity care—from virtual consultations to personalized plans and medication delivery.

    The initiative aims to break down barriers of stigma, cost, and limited access to doctor’s care by empowering Filipinos to take charge of their health from the comfort of their homes. This forms part of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight (TAW) campaign in the country, which aims to raise awareness, dispel stigma, and encourage informed, science-based approaches to addressing obesity.

    Photo shows (seated from left): Thalia Bondoc, director for marketing, ORA, Tom Reynolds, vice president for marketing, ORA, Wei Sun, general manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines, and Geraldine Perez, market access & business development director of Novo Nordisk Philippines. Joining them are key colleagues from both Novo Nordisk Philippines and ORA who made this partnership possible.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS on September 14, 2025

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS on September 14, 2025

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, fly for the WPS is the First-Ever Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run. It’s a Run for a Cause in support of the Naval Air Wing of the Philippine Navy and celebrating the 78th Founding Anniversary of the Naval Air Wing.

    Bringing together diverse fitness enthusiasts, aviation professionals, and communities. To honor our maritime protectors & support vulnerable fishing communities is the aim of The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS.

    It also aim to raise funds for fishing communities in Zambales, supporting sustainable livelihoods. The event proceeds will directly benefit fisherfolk affected by territorial disputes and environment challenges.

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run supports the Naval Air Wing’s mission of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea and uplifting coastal communities in Zambales.

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run will be held on 14 September 2025 at Villar City, Daang Hari, Cavite.

    Categories: 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K with special AFP rates, cash prizes, and trophies for top male and female finishers in the 10K and 21K.

    Race Kit Inclusions:

    Race Bibs for 3KM (Liberty Dash), 5KM (Guardian Sprint), 10KM (Mission Flight) and 21KM (Freedom Rush).

    Singlets for 5KM, 10KM and 21KM.

    Dog Tags for 3KM

    Finisher’s Kit Inclusions:

    Medals for 5K Finisher, 10K Finisher & 21K Finisher.

    Finisher Shirt for 10KM & 21KM.

    Awards for Podium Finishers:

    Trophies for 21K Winner & 10K Winner (1st Place, 2nd Place & 3rd Place Female Category)

    Cash Prizes

    Top 3 Male & Female finishers in 10KM & 21KM categories will win cash + trophies:

    • 21KM – P10,000 / P7,000 / P5,000
    • 10KM – P7,000 / P5,000 / P3,000

    21KM ROUTE MAP

    10KM ROUTE MAP

    5KM ROUTE MAP

    3KM ROUTE MAP

    HYDRATION Sample Computation

    Car Pass

    Parking Area

    Medical Plan

    Ambulance Deployment

    Fire Truck Deployment

    Location of Hospitals

    Event Day Schedule

    Organizers, Sponsor & Beneficiary

    Register now: https://register.raceya.fit/event/walkrunflyforthewps

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Agnes Tejada-Pambid

    📧 agnes.pambid@bcdpinpoint.com

    📞 +63917 520 7104

    Kim Lim

  • Multi-Awarded Writer Irene Sarmiento makes history as First Filipino Author at Germany’s White Ravens Festival

    Multi-Awarded Writer Irene Sarmiento makes history as First Filipino Author at Germany’s White Ravens Festival

    Press Release (August 14, 2025) – Irene Sarmiento, award-winning writer of children’s book Tabon Girl and young adult novel Stray Cats, is the first author from the Philippines to be invited to this year’s White Ravens Festival, held from July 13 to 17 at the Blutenberg Castle in Munich, Germany. 

    A native of Quezon City, she moved from the Philippines to Texas in 2011 and now works as a pediatric occupational therapist for children with special needs in northern Colorado. 

    In an interview with the National Book Development Board (NBDB), Sarmiento shared that “it was in college when I won my first Palanca [award] in the now defunct future fiction category and made me realize I have two lives [studying occupational therapy and writing]. But I never really questioned whether I should stop or keep writing.”

    She added, “As a writer, I recognize that in this unequal world, we who are marginalized have to assert our humanity, and this is my way of doing that. I am a Filipino writer talking to multiple cultures in my works. I am both a writer and a healthcare practitioner.” 

    The White Ravens Festival is dedicated to international literature for children and young adults, bringing together authors and illustrators from different parts of the world to read from their most recent works, lead writing workshops and other interactive events, and discuss their life and works. The festival has hosted various prominent authors such as Ingo Siegner from Germany, Micaela Chirif from Peru, Shaw Kuzki from Japan, Anete Melece from Latvia, Tuutikki Tolonen from Finland, MG Leonard from the United Kingdom, André Letria from Portugal, Yves Grevet from France, Jamshid Khanian from Iran, and Ondřej Buddeus from the Czech Republic, to name a few. 

    It is hosted by the International Youth Library (IJB) in Munich, Germany. 

    “The invitation was a huge surprise. It is important because it gave me the opportunity to tell them about the Philippines. It prompted the audience to know more about us [Filipinos]. It helped me to bring our works to the global stage,” Sarmiento said. 

    Aside from a radio interview, as part of the festival she attended eight interactive reading events across Germany with 10 different participating schools (and with 50 to 150 students in attendance each session) from July 13 to 17 this year. The event was under the patronage of the Bavarian State Minister for Science and the Arts, and featured renowned, multi-award-winning writers.

    Sarmiento’s works, often about children overcoming challenges, have received recognition from prestigious organizations such as The Palanca Memorial Foundation, the Philippine Graphic/Fiction Awards, and Stories to Change the World. 

    “My family and I always love books and stories. When I was eight years old, I won a short story writing competition called Young Minds, and it was the first time that I got really published, which started me on that trajectory,” said Sarmiento. 

    Her novel, Stray Cats, was named one of the Kids’ Choice winners at the National Children’s Book Award in 2024. It tells the story of Elisa Paz, an eighth grader in search of her best friend.

    Her tips to aspiring Filipino writers? “You should speak in your own voice. Who knows? One of these days, someone might listen.” 

    Sarmiento’s participation in the festival coincides with the Philippines’ preparations as the Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 15 to 19, 2025. 

    For media inquiries, please contact: 

    Divine Reyes Caraecle

    Communications & Promotions Section

    communications@books.gov.ph

    0917-1396394

    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).

  • Philippine Navy’s Press Conference of The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS

    Philippine Navy’s Press Conference of The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS

    The Philippine Navy has organized and hosted a Press Conference for the Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025 that was held on August 13, 2025, via ZOOM Cloud HD Video Meeting.

    During the opening remarks, Coah Ian and Naval Airwing has shared about The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS, held on September 14, 2025 at Villar City, Daang Hari, Cavite.

    They discussed the overview and inclusions of the BCD Pinpoint; about the cause (Naval Airwing)and event details of the Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025.

    About the event:

    1. The First-Ever Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run
    2. A Run for a Cause in support of the Naval Air Wing of the Philippine Navy.
    3. Celebrating the 78th Founding Anniversary of the Naval Air Wing.
    4. Bringing together fitness enthusiasts, aviation professionals, and communities.
    5. Aim: Honor our maritime protectors & support vulnerable fishing communities.

    It aims to honor the Naval Air Wing’s role in safeguarding the West Philippine Sea and to raise funds for fishing communities in Zambales, supporting sustainable livelihoods.

    Categories: 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K with special AFP rates, cash prizes, and trophies for top male and female finishers in the 10K and 21K.

    Key Highlights from the Presscon

    • Race route, hydration, parking, and medical plans were presented by Race Director Ian Alacar (Without Limits).
    • NAW shared their mission and ongoing community support initiatives in Zambales.
    • Event proceeds will directly benefit fisherfolk affected by territorial disputes and environmental challenges.

    Event Highlights:

    1. Date: 14 September 2025 (Sunday)
    2. Venue: Villar City, Daang Hari, Cavite
    3. Categories: 3KM, 5KM, 10KM, 21KM (with group promo 4+1)
    4. Special Rates for AFP Personnel
    5. Podium Prizes: Up to P10,000 cash + trophies
    6. Causes: Livelihood programs for Zambales fishermen

    Register now: https://register.raceya.fit/event/walkrunflyforthewps

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Agnes Tejada-Pambid

    📧 agnes.pambid@bcdpinpoint.com

    📞 +63917 520 7104

    Kim Lim

  • Pru Life UK launches PRUSteady Income

    Pru Life UK launches PRUSteady Income

    A practical, steady solution for today’s needs and tomorrow’s goals

    As Filipinos continue to juggle growing financial responsibilities with personal aspirations, Pru Life UK introduces PRUSteady Income, a new 20-year endowment insurance plan designed to provide financial resilience—now and into the future.

    “At Pru Life UK, we are committed to understanding what matters most to our customers. We designed PRUSteady Income as a practical financial solution that empowers our customers to confidently pursue their priorities today and prepare for life’s milestones ahead,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer.

    This life insurance plan offers a reliable mix of guaranteed protection and a steady income stream. From the end of the 11th year until the 20th year of the policy, policyowners are guaranteed to receive net annual cash payouts equal to 10% of the sum assured. Upon maturity at the end of the 20-year term, the full sum assured will be given as a maturity benefit.

    In the unfortunate event of death of the insured, the plan provides beneficiaries with up to 200% of the sum assured as death benefit. To help manage unexpected financial needs, the policy also includes loanable cash values which is accessible as needed.

    For every Filipino

    The launch of PRUSteady Income underscores Pru Life UK’s commitment to helping Filipinos build a balanced financial portfolio—offering insurance solutions that are simple, reliable, and built for real-life needs.

    “Filipinos often put their families first and themselves second. With PRUSteady Income, we want to help them do both at the same time. It’s about giving people the confidence to care for their loved ones now, while also investing in the well-being of the person they’ve always aspired to be,” Dee said.

    “Whether you are a parent preparing for a comfortable future for your children or a freelancer building a steady living today for yourself and your loved ones, PRUSteady Income is designed to meet you where you are in life and help you move forward with greater confidence,” she continued.

    For parents, the guaranteed annual payout offers a meaningful way to invest in their children’s future—supplementing their educational fund and nurturing a lifestyle filled with opportunity and growth. “Beyond the 20-year coverage period, the maturity benefit can add to the policyowner’s retirement savings, offering financial security at a time when economic uncertainties make long-term planning more essential than ever,” she said.

    PRUSteady Income is also well-suited for freelancers who find themselves balancing the demands of everyday life while yearning to nurture their personal growth.

    “The reality is saving often takes a backseat to immediate responsibilities. This product provides financial protection with guaranteed payouts, while the maturity benefit serves as a financial cushion for pursuing long-overdue personal goals,” she concluded.

    To learn more about PRUSteady Income, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph or follow Pru Life UK on Facebook. Please refer to the product terms and conditions or consult with a licensed Pru Life UK agent to ensure the product suits your needs.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia