Readers, creators and attendees are thrilled in attending and to celebrate with the Philippine International Comics Festival (PICOF) 2025 from July 5 – 6, 2025 at SM Megamall Megatrade Hall 2, Mandaluyong City.
Sixteen (16) Things You Can Do at PICOF 2025
Support over 200 indie comics creators launching over 100 new komiks!
Check out the exhibits (Mars Ravelo: Tales from the Magic Makinilya; Enter the Mulberry Tree and Fly Free; Country of Highlight; PALESTINE & PICOF Official Selection).
3. Learn from comics professionals from the Philippines and around the world at the comic masterclasses!
4. Watch “Komiks With a K” by documentary film director/producer Jay Ignacio, National Book Award Winning Author For “Alandal.”
5. Early birds get a FREE copy of the TUWA Comics anthology!
6. Get your caricatures made at the Caricature Corner of the Samahang Kartunista ng Pilipinas!
7. Watch Komiks in the making at the Panels for Palestine live drawing corner!
9. Read your komiks haul at the lounge area of NBDB’s Book Bar!
10. Discover comics from other countries with the international delegates!
11. Learn the lost of art style of Filipino komiks at HAGOD: The Filipino School of Brush Illustrations for Komiks by Randy Valiente!
12. Share the love for komiks by taking a photo of your #picofhaul at the photo booth!
13. Get a limited edition KOMET art toy in the KOMET corner!
14. Support Palestine! This year’s Country of Highlight is PALESTINE!
15. Learn from ‘Itaewon Class’ creator Gwang Jin in his masterclass INK & INDUSTRY: Korean Webtoons and the Industry Landscape!
16. Festival Programming
What to look out for:
COMICS MARKET–support over 200 Filipino comics creators and publishers and international guests releasing over 100 new komiks!
COMICS EXHIBITS–a tribute to Filipino komiks master Mars Ravelo, the country of highlight, Palestine, and the PICOF Official Selection!
COMICS MASTERCLASSES–the Cartooning Workshop with Samahang Kartunista ng Pilipinas, the Live Drawing session, “Komiks With a K” film screening and workshops with our international guests!
FESTIVAL PROGRAMMING–on the stage we have Artist Battles, Panel by Panel Comics Readings, a Komiks Trivia Night–and much more surprises
NBDB BOOK BAR–take a break and lounge in NBDB’s book bar, and take a photo of your #picofhaul at the photobooth
There’s so much more to love at #picof2025. The PICOF 2025 TEAM are glad to have the diverse attendees to celebrate Filipino komiks amongst others of Festival of Delight!
From classrooms to communities, across institutions and islands—the COCOPEA–REX regional run gathers stakeholders and educators anew to lead, learn, and shape a better future for the Filipino learners.
As a new school year begins, educators are presented with an important opportunity to improve their teaching practices, serve their students more effectively, and ultimately, contribute to elevating the quality of education in our country. This year, with the Revised K–10 Curriculum taking root in our classrooms, that opportunity has never felt more urgent and meaningful.
This is the spirit behind the 2025 COCOPEA–REX regional run.
Organized by the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), and Rex Education, in partnership with the Department of Education, this initiative aims to equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively implement the Revised K–10 Curriculum, particularly for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8.
A Transformative 2-Day Learning Journey Across the Archipelago
This year’s regional run, themed “Capacitating the Private Education Sector for the Effective Implementation of the Revised K–10 Curriculum,” aims to ensure that every Filipino learner has access to quality, relevant, and responsive education. The run began in Davao City on February 27–28, hosted by the University of the Immaculate Conception, Bajada Campus, welcoming educators from Regions 11, 12, SOCCSKSARGEN, and parts of BARMM. From there, the initiative traveled across the country through five more major legs: Baguio City – St. Louis University for Regions I, II, CAR, and parts of Region III, Cebu City – Cebu Institute of Technology for Regions VII, VIII, and parts of Region IX, Iloilo City – Angelicum College for Region VI, Cagayan de Oro – Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan for Region X, parts of BARMM and Region IX and Muntinlupa City – San Beda College Alabang for Regions NCR, IV-A, and IV-B
Over the 2-day program, participants were provided with the tools and platform to unpack the revised curriculum—not just in theory, but in practical, tangible ways. The first day opened with a plenary session that set the tone for the training—bringing together educators, administrators, and stakeholders to align on the goals and significance of the Revised K–10 Curriculum.
Following this, the second plenary session titled “General Updates on the Revised K–10 Curriculum” provided participants with an overview of the recent changes and developments, focusing on curriculum content and structural updates for the priority grade levels.
From there, participants moved into concurrent breakout sessions, grouped per learning area, for a curriculum walkthrough, where they engaged in two core activities:
● An In-depth Exploration of Learning Standards for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8, clarifying what students are expected to know and do at each grade level
● Curriculum Unpacking of Learning Competencies for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8, which involved breaking down each competency into practical, actionable teaching objectives
As the run transitioned into the second day, the focus shifted from understanding the curriculum to implementing it effectively in the classroom. It began with the third plenary session, titled “Evidence-Based Intervention: Focus on Pedagogical Practices and the Importance of Assessment,” highlighting how research-based teaching methods and meaningful assessments can drive better student learning outcomes.
School leaders, stakeholders, and educators nationwide take part in the 2025 COCOPEA-REX Regional Run—deepening their understanding and strengthening their readiness for the effective implementation of the Revised K–10 Curriculum, particularly for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8.
This was followed by morning breakout sessions, again organized per learning area, that explored the Pedagogical Practices that Integrate and Develop Literacy and 21st-Century Skills through theoretical discussions and strategy-sharing. Educators shared strategies and discussed how to incorporate these essential skills into their teaching methods.
In the afternoon, educators participated in a series of hands-on workshops, still within their respective learning areas. These included:
● A workshop on pedagogical practices to further strengthen instruction that fosters literacy and 21st-century competencies
● A theoretical discussion and a workshop on effective assessment and feedback strategies, guiding educators in using assessment not only for grading but also for supporting student growth and reflective teaching.
Anchored in Purpose, Rooted in Legacy
This year’s run is especially meaningful as it coincides with REX’s 75th anniversary—a milestone that honors decades of commitment to supporting Filipino learners, educators, and institutions.
For 75 years, REX has stood not only as a learning solutions provider, but as a katuwang sa buhay—a partner for life, in learning, growth, and transformation. The regional run serves as a continuation of this legacy, reaching out to private schools, listening to their needs, and assisting them in navigating the evolving educational landscape through collaboration and shared learning.
Moving Forward, Together
With COCOPEA, CEAP, REX, DepEd, and countless Edukampyons at the forefront, this movement proves that progress is possible when we lead with collaboration, compassion, and courage. Even in the face of shifting systems and emerging challenges, we can always rise—grounded in legacy, driven by purpose—Para sa bata. Para sa mamamayan. Para sa bayan.
The social media movement showcases the Taiwanese culture of enjoyment in excellence in all aspects of life, motivating Filipinos online.
Garnering over four hundred and eighty thousand views and more than four thousand comments, the #BestDoneisFun jingle and music video rouses Filipinos on Facebook to be inspired by this anthem of excellence.
What’s the meaning of #BestDoneisFun?
The online movement spotlights a common perspective in Taiwan–where aiming for excellence is seen not as a stressful chore, but an enjoyable activity.
In a social media contest hosted by Taiwan Excellence PH, hundreds of Filipinos online were given the opportunity to share their inspiring, proudest moments–such as those with moving stories as parents, resilient Pinoys working hard to achieve their career dreams, and even people who share their journey overcoming lifelong struggles.
(The cast of the #BestDoneisFun online video series by Taiwan Excellence PH. From left to right: Kat Galang, Billy Jake Cortez, Divine Aucina, Ar Angel Aviles.)
#BestDoneisFun Episodic Short-Form Video Series
Following the #BestDoneisFun music video, Taiwan Excellence PH is also currently releasing an episodic, short-form video series on social media starring beloved internet celebrities such as Kat Galang, Billy Jake Cortez, Ar Angel Aviles, and Divine Aucina. The series highlights the socio-cultural practices and fun facts about how the #BestDoneisFun in Taiwan.
In Episode 1 of the series, the story brings to the screen the Taiwanese practice of being on time as a form of respect to others–portrayed in the form of a romantic comedy.
Following the meet-cute of main character Jessie and her crush from Taiwan, Episode 2 depicts her daydream of two of them in the future–complete with their long-lasting electronics made possible by the high quality of semiconductors from Taiwan.
The most recent episode continues the story by presenting “green flags” in a partner, showcasing Taiwanese traits such as strong work ethic, warm hospitality, and being family-oriented.
(Scene from the music video of the #BestDoneisFun jingle by Taiwan Excellence PH.)
The episode series is ongoing on social media–promising more fun facts about how the #BestDoneisFun in Taiwan, portrayed through entertaining short-form videos. Stay tuned as the next episode to be released follows the main characters looking for their next travel destination, later finding out about the cold beaches of Taitung and Hualien in Taiwan. More interesting details about Taiwan will also be brought into the spotlight in other succeeding video episodes–such as the one hundred percent implemented ban on plastic cups in cafes in Taiwan. The finale of the #BestDoneisFun series will also feature the unique yet world-famous street food delicacy in Taiwan: Stinky Tofu.
For me, the creation of #BestDoneisFun online initiative by Taiwan Excellence PH really sparks a movement of excellence for diverse Filipino netizen in the community & beyond.
About Taiwan Excellence
Taiwan Excellence Awards was launched by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Taiwan, R.O.C. in 1993. All products carrying this symbol have been selected for specific Taiwan Excellence Awards based on their excellence in R&D, design, quality, and marketing through a rigorous selection process. Therefore, they symbolize exquisite, innovative Taiwanese products. Selected by the government, the award-winning entries represent the epitome of Taiwanese industrial prowess and the perfect image of excellent product quality. The Taiwan Excellence symbol is recognized worldwide as it is trademarked and promoted in 106 countries and regions. Please visit https://www.taiwanexcellence.org/en for more information.
For updates on the #BestDoneisFun episodic series and future raffle contests, follow Taiwan Excellence PH on Instagram and Facebook.
SINGAPORE – June 26, 2025 – Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has partnered with leading AI provider CloudMile to enhance its student virtual assistant, Lyon Bot. By integrating Google’s Gemini large language model (LLM), the upgraded AI chatbot delivers faster, more accurate responses to student inquiries—especially on accommodation—boosting engagement while streamlining administrative tasks and saving the university over 14 days of manual work each month.
“We are transitioning from an intent-based Natural Language Processing chatbot to a GenAI chatbot for student housing inquiries to enhance flexibility, scalability, and user experience.” said Mr Ng Kee Haur, Deputy Director, Enterprise IT, Centre for IT Services at NTU. “While GenAI can handle complex, unstructured queries, there is still a role for the intent-based chatbot in specific scenarios. This hybrid approach allows us to balance efficiency with precision.”
AI Assistant Evolves: Enhanced Accuracy and Engagement
NTU initially introduced Lyon Bot in 2020 to assist nearly 6,000 freshmen with enrollment, easing the administrative burden on university staff. The original system, built on Google Dialogflow Essentials, faced challenges adapting to evolving student needs and required laborious manual data tagging and updates.
With CloudMile’s expertise, NTU has now advanced Lyon Bot into a Generative AI-powered system. The new version employs multi-layer processing — including query understanding, demand classification, and answer generation — to retrieve information in real-time from multiple centrally managed data sources. This has markedly improved conversational accuracy and response speed, significantly reducing error rates.
“With the new AI-powered chatbot, we are currently saving around 14.5 days’ worth of work every month,” said Alvin Ong, Chief Information Officer of NTU. “This allows our staff to focus on tasks that require human insight and creativity.”
CloudMile Demonstrates Generative AI and Multi-Cloud Prowess in Educational Transformation
This collaboration highlights CloudMile’s technical depth in Generative AI application and data governance, as well as its capabilities in delivering complex international projects. CloudMile provided customized consulting services and system integration tailored to the specific needs of the educational institution, assisting NTU in building a stable and scalable AI conversational framework.
Jeremy Heng, Managing Director, Southeast Asia at CloudMile, commented, “The transformation of NTU’s Lyon Bot is a testament to our commitment to enhancing human-computer interaction through AI. CloudMile will continue supporting institutions and enterprises in leveraging AI for innovation excellence.”
About Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU)
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) is a diverse institution of higher learning with over 35,000 students, internationally renowned for its excellence in academics and research. NTU is consistently ranked among the world’s best young universities and is highly regarded for its leading capabilities in fields such as artificial intelligence, computer science, and engineering.
About CloudMile
CloudMile is a leading AI and cloud technology group in Asia, focused on driving enterprise growth through digital transformation powered by AI and data technology. With dual headquarters in Taipei and Singapore, and offices across Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam, CloudMile provides end-to-end AI transformation solutions, from multi-cloud architecture design and technical integration to strategic AI consulting. For more information, please visit www.mile.cloud.
Reference & CloudMile Press Contacts
Mei Chang Account Manager Email: mei@GlobalPR.agency Skype: meiskalamera Jean-Pierre
MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR – The National Book Development Board (NBDB), in partnership with Aklat Alamid, will host the first-ever Marawi Children’s Book Fest on June 27-29, 2025 at the Mindanao State University’s main campus.
The event aims to equip authors, illustrators, and publishers with the necessary skills and knowledge in producing children’s books, while highlighting Meranaw culture and traditions.
“There should be available quality and accessible Maranao books that represent who they are and the way they live. In the 2023 National Readership Survey results, there was a notable decline in reading non-school books, which was at 43% for children. Access to books emerged as the primary reason for the decline, with limited awareness of public libraries and constraints in time and distance,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.
She added, “NBDB’s grant supports publishing stakeholders in enhancing their skills and knowledge through professional development events such as the Marawi Children’s Book Fest. We encourage other organizations to initiate events such as this.”
In a list compiled by Aklat Alamid, only around 20 children’s books from different regions in the country feature Muslim stories from 1990 to 2012 but were mostly authored by non-Muslim Filipinos. The next year, 2013, marked a new milestone as the number of titles featuring Muslim stories increased to more than 100 titles by 2023. With the implementation of Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education starting in the 2012-2013 school year, different mother tongues, including those spoken by Muslim Filipinos, were used in reading materials for early-grade level students.
“The seminar-workshop aims to orient the participants on the importance of books for Meranaw children and to guide the preselected authors and illustrators in the process of developing the picture books,” said M.J. Cagumbay Tumamac, popularly known as Xi Zuq to his readers, who is also the co-founder and administrative head of Aklat Alamid.
He added, “As part of a larger project, [we aim] to develop four picture books on Meranaw culture, created by Meranaw authors and illustrators, written in the Meranaw language, and for Meranaw readers.”
The festival takes on deeper significance in the context of post-siege Marawi, where the 2017 conflict left physical and emotional scars on the community. In the years since, educators, parents, and cultural advocates have underscored the role of storytelling in rebuilding Maranao identity and heritage, as well as promoting healing and fostering peace.
One of the main events at the workshop is a panel discussion titled Stories of Hope: Meranaw Voices from Marawi, which will present peacebuilding efforts in the community and share tools for education and empowerment with the participants.
Meanwhile, there will also be an expressive, interactive, and visual storytelling session on two culturally rich children’s books, Si Jalal Ago So Ranaw and Ranao Monster. These stories are rooted in Meranaw culture and the natural beauty of Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao.
The three-day event will also include discussions and workshops on the importance of Meranaw children’s books, Maranao orthography, children’s books illustration, and bibliotherapy. In a hybrid format, the book fest is expected to gather 150 participants including students, parents, teachers, authors, publishers, and novice illustrators. The speakers and facilitators are from the MSU-Main Campus, the City Schools Division of Marawi, Teach Peace Build Peace Movement Inc., and Aklat Alamid.
The event is in partnership with the university’s Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center, the City Schools Division of Marawi, and the Division of Lanao del Sur 1 under the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
With the Marawi Children’s Book Fest, the NBDB and Aklat Alamid are working together to reclaim narrative spaces for a community whose stories deserve to be read, heard, and cherished.
Solane, one of the country’s trusted leaders in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) industry, recently launched its newest campaign, “SIGURADONG SOLANE”. This comprehensive initiative underscores the company’s long-standing and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its consumers through the promotion of safe LPG usage and the guarantee of high-quality products.
“SIGURADONG SOLANE” emphasizes three key pillars of safety and quality assurance:
Auto Shut-Off Feature: Solane “De Salpak” tanks are equipped with regulator mechanism that automatically stops the flow of LPG in the event that the hose is accidentally pulled-of, significantly minimizing potential hazards. This feature provides an added layer of security, giving consumers peace of mind as they bring their Solane tank inside their home.
Guaranteed Correct Weight: Solane understands the importance of fair and accurate transactions keeping its promise of delivering LPG tanks with the exact weight indicated. This commitment ensures that consumers receive the full value for their money while also adhering to safety standards, as underfilled or overfilled tanks can pose risks.
Well-maintained LPG Tanks: Safety extends beyond just the features of the LPG. Solane adheres to industry standards for safety and reliability. This proactive approach to tank maintenance guarantees that consumers receive a safe and reliable product every time.
With Solane, we promise to deliver not just a product, but complete peace of mind. That’s why safety is at the core of everything we do .” explained Pia Bernabe, Sr. Brand Manager of Solane LPG. “Through our ‘SIGURADONG SOLANE’ campaign, we’re empowering consumers to be discerning and vigilant when choosing their LPG—to choose yung sigurado” added Bernabe.
The “SIGURADONG SOLANE” campaign has been rolled out through various channels, including social media, digital platforms, and on-ground activations, to reach a wider audience and effectively communicate the importance of LPG safety. The campaign reiterates the brand’s being SAFE and SULIT: Solane is both “safe sa disgrasya” (safe from accidents due to potential hazards) and “safe sa gastos” (cost-effective), providing our customers with peace of mind and value for their money.
Marikina City, Philippines — PW Philippines Corp has officially opened its newest branch in Marikina City, aiming to provide accessible Japanese language education and Prometric review programs to more Filipino youth. The launch marks an exciting step forward in its mission to bring free language learning opportunities closer to learners in Luzon.
Located within the Pamantasan Ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar), the new branch offers a structured and focused approach to language instruction, grounded in learning and clear guidance. This expansion follows the continued growth of its main branch in Davao City.
“The Marikina branch represents our desire to serve more communities through education that builds confidence and discipline,” the team behind PW Philippines Corp shared. “We believe that language learning is not only about acquiring skills but also about empowering individuals to grow and discover their potential.”
The organization also clarified its role in the education sector: PW Philippines Corp is a language tutorial center—not a recruitment agency—and does not participate in any employment process.
Qualifications for Enrollment
To qualify for the free Japanese language and Prometric review program offered by PW Philippines Corp – Marikina, applicants must meet the following criteria:
● Must be 17 to 30 years old
● Must have a minimum height of 4’11
● Must be a Grade 12 graduate, a two-year vocational graduate, or a college graduate
● Must be able to commit to regular face-to-face classesfor a period of six months, held Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
● Must have no history of tattoos
● Must be physically and mentally fit to undergo intensive training
Location
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar) Rainbow Street corner Russet Street, SSS Village, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City
Programs Offered
PW Philippines Corp – Marikina provides the following free, in-person training programs:
● Special Nihongo for Caregiving
● Special Nihongo for Hotel Accommodation
● Special Nihongo for Food Service
Each course includes targeted Japanese language instruction and Prometric review sessions. All classes are led by instructors who are certified passers of Japanese language proficiency exams, ensuring learners receive high-quality, goal-oriented education tailored to real-life applications.
Schedule and Important Dates
● Trial Class: July 7, 2025 (Monday)
● Official Start of Classes: July 14, 2025 (Monday)
Through this expansion, PW Philippines Corp reaffirms its commitment to nurturing learners through clear instruction, language skills, and supportive classroom environments. The Marikina branch is envisioned to become a space where young Filipinos can explore the Japanese language while building discipline, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning.
Taiwan Excellence launches their annual contest for innovative proposals, with this year’s theme entitled: “Go Healthy with Taiwan.” To improve global health standards and promote overall well-being in communities and cities around the world, Taiwan Excellence encourages those from governments, institutions, and organizations to submit their original ideas that integrate holistic solutions and high-quality health products from Taiwan.
The “Go Healthy with Taiwan” campaign brings into the spotlight five key sectors of Taiwan’s health industry: smart healthcare, medical aesthetics and wellness, fitness equipment, sports technologies, and bicycles. Long recognized as the “Bicycle Kingdom,” Taiwan is a global leader in high-end bicycle manufacturing and innovations in sustainability. Taiwanese companies are among the world’s top suppliers in fitness equipment, integrating AI with strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities. In smart healthcare, Taiwan leverages its advanced ICT, semiconductor expertise, and elite medical system to offer integrated solutions for the global health tech market.
“Go Healthy with Taiwan” Global Kickoff Event
The event to officially launch the campaign was held in Taiwan on Tuesday, June 3. The press conference welcomed distinguished guests including Mr. Robert Wu, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association; Mr. Jeff Chen, President of the Taiwan Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Spark Huang, Director of the Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, alongside key industry representatives. Media representatives from 12 international outlets across Europe, the U.S., Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, as well as foreign diplomats in Taiwan, also attended in support of the campaign.
The campaign’s promotional theme, aptly titled “Pitching Taiwan’s Best: A Homerun for Proposals!”, was unveiled during the event. The Taiwanese baseball star, Mr. An-Ko Lin, made a surprise appearance along with the mascot of Taiwan Excellence, Fu Bear. With the venue transformed into the likeness of a baseball field, Lin and Fu Bear reenacted symbolic home runs to represent Taiwan championing top-tier health solutions and collaboration with innovators across the globe.
Ms. Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), noted the contest’s goal for Taiwan and for the world. “President Lai Chiang-te is actively advancing the vision of a “Healthy Taiwan.” By encouraging global participation and collaboration for a healthier future, this campaign marks a significant step in bringing this vision to life.”
Mr. Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), speaks about the importance of the campaign from a national to global scale. “This international call not only highlights the strength and innovation of Taiwan’s comprehensive health industry, but also encourages partnerships between nations around the world that advance smart and sustainable healthy lifestyles with the help of Taiwan’s leading technologies and solutions.”
How to Join “Go Healthy with Taiwan”
“Go Healthy with Taiwan” aims to build on the success of last year’s “Go Green with Taiwan” contest–which received 396 submissions from 45 countries. This year, the contest’s goal is to receive over 500 entries from across 5 continents, further expanding international reach and practical applications from Taiwan. All high-quality entries will be given opportunities to explore collaboration with world-class Taiwanese companies, and the top three proposals will each be awarded USD30,000.
The submission period is open from May 15 to August 14, 2025. For more information, visit the official website at http://gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org. For updates on the “Go Healthy with Taiwan” contest, follow Taiwan Excellence PH on Facebook and Instagram.
Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), through the commission of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), opens the call around the world for proposals under the theme “Go Healthy with Taiwan” –to increase the visibility of Taiwan in the health industry and to foster global partnerships with opportunities for local implementation. Taiwan Excellence, the joint project by TAITRA and TITA, eagerly invites everyone to join the initiative of innovative, healthy solutions for the world.
