Haier funs and runners are thrilled of the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 with a Bigger Mission in the diverse community and beyond.
MANILA, Philippines — Following the resounding success of its inaugural event, Haier Philippines is bringing back the Haier Run for Future Possibilities on May 25, 2025 (Sunday) at Block 20, MOA Complex, Seaside Blvd, Pasay City. Now on its second year, the run continues to blend fitness, fun, and a deeper purpose—supporting access to education for Filipino children.
The 2025 edition carries forward Haier’s mission to go beyond home innovation and give back to communities. For every step taken by participants, Haier will donate to initiatives aimed at improving learning opportunities for the youth—making each stride truly meaningful.
Race Details & Registration
Participants can choose among three race categories:
3K – PHP 900
5K – PHP 1,000
10K – PHP 1,200
All registered participants will receive a race kit that includes a singlet, RFID race bib, finisher’s medal, and a string bag. Runners in the 10K category will also receive an exclusive finisher’s shirt and bandana.
Haier will be awarding top finishers in both male and female divisions across all categories with high-value appliances:
10K Category
1st Place: T-Door Refrigerator
2nd Place: Top Load Washing Machine
3rd Place: Window-Type Air Conditioner
5K Category
1st Place: 43″ Smart TV
3K Category
1st Place: Top Load Washing Machine
These prizes highlight Haier’s core commitment to creating smart, high-quality solutions that elevate everyday life at home.
A Run with a Cause
The Haier Run stands out not only for its premium prizes and festive atmosphere but also for its strong social advocacy. By tying every runner’s step to a greater cause, the event becomes more than just a physical challenge—it becomes a platform for meaningful change.
As Haier continues to champion innovation that cares, the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 invites individuals and families to be part of a purposeful movement. Whether you’re a competitive runner or a casual participant, your presence helps build a better, brighter future for the next generation.
For event details, visit: Haier Philippines Facebook Page
BOLOGNA, ITALY – Following a successful debut participation at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) in 2024, the Philippines is set to return to the world’s foremost event for children’s books, which will take place from March 31 to April 3, 2025, at the BolognaFiere Exhibition Centre in Italy. The country’s participation will be led by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), with support from the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY) and the International Board on Books for Young People Philippines (IBBY PH).
Last year marked several milestones for the Philippine book publishing industry. Before its successful presentation at the Frankfurt Book Fair in October, the Philippines made waves in the book world with its children’s book sector being selected as the Country of Focus at the Asian Festival of Children’s Content in Singapore. This set the stage for the Philippines’ debut at the BCBF, where the country showcased over 100 children’s books in a dedicated stand. For 2025, the Philippines is poised to build on last year’s success with an even more robust presence. The delegation will be represented by a talented group of children’s book professionals, including illustrator Fran Alvarez (Dancing Hands: A Story of Friendship in Filipino Sign Language), authors Faye Villanueva-Chelabian (co-founder of Kawangis Publishing), Liwliwa Malabed (Sampung Eroplano), Ergoe Tinio (Editor-in-Chief of Center for Art, New Ventures & Sustainable Development), and MJ Tumamac (co-founder of Aklat Alamid), alongside Eli Camacho (Product Development Manager at Adarna House), Sophia Garduce (Southern Voices Printing Press), and Isa Songco (co-founder ofKwentoon).
“This is another win for our children’s book sector, which is an enduring and vital part of our book industry. If our participation at the BCBF last year was an introduction to our children’s books, this year, we’re expanding our participation with a larger book curation focused on themes that represent the true nature of Philippine children’s stories: progressive, endlessly curious, and consider children as smart, imaginative readers with a great sense of agency,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.
This year’s curation will feature 120 titles that explore a variety of themes, including Philippine culture, diversity, environmental awareness, and sense of self and community. This selection of early readers, middle grade, and young adult books features both old and new voices in the Philippine children’s book sector, highlighting the authors and illustrators behind one of the country’s most widely read and translated genres.
Additionally, the Philippines will host a range of activities, including an art workshop for children, which will take place at the Philippine Embassy in Rome on March 29, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The event will feature two sessions: Mom’s Best Playdough Activities focusing on Philippine national symbols, and an art workshop by Liza Flores of Ang INK (Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan), encouraging young participants to explore their creativity while learning about Filipino culture. On April 1, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the Philippine Collective Stand will host a reception, welcoming Ambassador Nathaniel G. Imperial and Consul General Elmer G. Cato, along with other representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Rome and the Philippine Consulate in Milan.
In addition to these, the Philippines is supporting a special Happy Hour event called Drink & Draw with the Philippines, organized by German Stories and the Frankfurter Buchmesse. This gathering will take place on April 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Hall 30, B24-C11.
Since 1964, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair has been the industry-leading fair where professionals working in children’s content from all over the world meet for networking, rights selling, and other opportunities for cross-media adaptation, as well as expand their knowledge in the art of creating children’s books through fora, workshops, exhibits, talks, and other activities. Over 25,000 visitors attend the BCBF every year.
This year, the BCBF will feature 1,500 exhibitors from approximately 90 countries and regions around the world. The Philippine country stand will be located at Hall 29, B24-C23.
Divine Reyes-Caraecle, Chief of Communications & Promotions
091713963394
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 (@nbdphilippines).
Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing.
Gathering of Change Makers in Education
Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every learner and educator.
In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera highlighted that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. He stated, “This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners.”
Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of preparing Filipino learners for an increasingly digital world. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to developing future-ready learners by integrating technology, enhancing critical thinking, and strengthening public-private collaborations.
One key session featured a panel discussion with respected education experts and policymakers:
Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director o of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2)
Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines and former DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching
Ms. Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC)
Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA)
Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the discussion focused on improving learning outcomes in the Philippines. It emphasized evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability among education leaders, and the importance of authentic assessments to accurately measure student progress.
In the afternoon, Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, led a plenary session on student engagement. She challenged traditional approaches and introduced innovative methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences.
A Moment of Gratitude and the Symphony of Learning
The second day of AECON began with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Parañaque, reflecting on the journey of Rex Education and its mission to support Filipino education.
After the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the Symphony of Learning Solutions, a suite of educational resources supporting lifelong learning, from early childhood to professional development. This initiative highlights REX’s commitment to integrating assessment, intervention, and enrichment for educators and learners.
Buhain compared learning to a symphony, where every effort, resource, and voice comes together to create something meaningful. He assured, “The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when they are necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners.”
The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, learning instruments, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments to ensure well-rounded education at every stage.
A Unified Pledge for Quality Education
As the congress concluded, a spirit of unity filled the hall as attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, this solemn moment reaffirmed the commitment of educators and education stakeholders to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners.
75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment
Reaching 75 years is a testament to Rex Education’s dedication to every learner and educator it has served. The journey continues.
In his message of gratitude, REX Chairman and President Atty. Dominador Buhain thanked all the Edukampyons and shared, “Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds… We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner.”
As Rex Education looks beyond 75 years, its commitment remains—to be the trusted katuwang of every Filipino educator, school, and learner, fostering lifelong learning for generations—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.
Why Paynamics and Sterling Bank of Asia are empowering business together?
We’re thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with Sterling Bank of Asia! Through this collaboration, Sterling Bank will introduce Paynamics’ cutting-edge payment solutions to its merchant clients—helping businesses streamline transactions and drive growth.
Together, we’re making digital payments more accessible, seamless, and efficient for merchants across industries. This is just the beginning of financial innovation at work!
Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) and Paynamics Technologies have renewed their partnership to enhance the accessibility of digital payments for SBA’s business clients. Attending the event were (L-R) SBA Retail Banking Group Head and EVP Ralph Cadiz, along with President and CEO Cecilio San Pedro; Paynamics CEO Mylene Chua-Magleo, Board Member Esther Magleo, CFO Ronald Magleo, and Chief Revenue Officer Allan Condino.
Stay tuned for more updates as we build the future of payments!
Ajinomoto has partnered with Fast Logistics Corporation, the leading end-to-end supply chain provider in the Philippines, to drive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives by integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into its logistics operations. This partnership marks a significant step toward sustainable supply chain solutions, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting eco-friendly transportation practices.
Representatives from Ajinomoto and Fast Logistics Corporation (FROM L-R) Ely S. Baleta, Chief Commercial Officer , Fast Logistics Corporation, Manuel L. Onrejas, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Fast Logistics Corporation,Koichi Ozaki, President, Ajinomoto Philippines Corpotation, Makoto Tanabe, Vice President, Ajinomoto, Ernie Carlos,Supply Chain Director, and Jovany Ann Lee, AVP, Head of Revenue Marketing & CRM
Fast Logistics Corporation has an ESG strategy in place as part of its commitment to sustainability and innovation, that includes transitioning to a low-carbon economy, aimed at reducing emissions in the long term. With over 50 years of expertise in seafreight, airfreight, inland trucking, RoRo transport, warehousing, cold chain solutions, and value-added services, Fast Logistics continues to provide efficient, cost-effective, and future-ready logistics solutions for businesses.
Manuel L. Onrejas, Jr., Chief Operating Officer of Fast Logistics, emphasized the company’s commitment to ESG principles, stating: “Fast Logistics is deeply invested in sustainability, building stronger relationships with our clients and employees while contributing to the positive development of society. We recognize that global players are rapidly embracing technology, and we are honored to partner with Ajinomoto in leading this shift. Through this collaboration, we aim to encourage companies—both local and multinational—to optimize delivery windows, introduce night deliveries to ease traffic congestion, and adopt electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, our self-sustaining charging stations help conserve energy in the community grid, and our exclusive truck availability for clients alleviates trucking shortages.”
“At Fast, we believe leadership comes with an ESG responsibility. By transforming the way we operate the supply chain in partnership with our clients and suppliers, we actively support shared decarbonization goals and foster sustainable practices.
This isn’t just about business—it’s about the future of our planet, the same planet we’ll pass on to our children and loved ones,” Onrejas added.
Ajinomoto and Fast Logistics’ partnership sets a precedent for businesses seeking innovative and sustainable logistics solutions. Through shared commitment and collaboration, they aim to pave the way for a greener, more efficient,and socially responsible supply chain—benefiting businesses, communities, and the planet.
For more information on Fast Logistics’ ESG initiatives, visit www.fast.com.ph.
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.
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
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.
