The Book Launch: “The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu,” was held on August 20, 2025 at Manila Diamond Hotel, 27th FL-Constellation, Roxas Blvd., Cor. Dr. J. Quintos St., City of Manila.
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 than began with the most humble 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.
During the event, speakers shared their views and lessons about the life and adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu.
Architect Gilbert Yu shared three lessons for the next generation of designers during the Book launch, celebrates a life from zero to skyscrapers. Some lessons he wants to impart to architects are Architectures goes beyond design, Architects must be knowledgeable in business, and Architects must be forward thinking. He mentioned about the advocacy of building lives and structures in the community – an eco-friendly and sustainable living.
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.
Architect Gilbert Yu has been an advocate for housing affordability, high construction standards and consumer protection in the real estate industry.
The Authors of Book is Ms. Iris Gonzales, a journalist and columnist for The Philippines Star.
Slim and Powerful Battery is the secret sauce of HONOR Magic V5.
Manila, Philippines – Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is gearing up for the arrival of its newest and thinnest foldable phone – the HONOR Magic V5! Coming this September 5, HONOR Magic V5 sports the biggest battery out of all its counterparts in the market to date. Catch the launch live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MagicV5Launch_FB.
“With HONOR Magic V5, we combined portability, durability, and superb performance especially with its camera that competitors lack. We are very excited to share this new benchmark for foldable smartphone so join us tomorrow,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Exceptional Telephoto Capabilities with the 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera
The HONOR Magic V5 is equipped with the HONOR AI Falcon Camera System, offering a professional-grade photography experience. The setup comprises an upgraded 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera Lens, a 50MP Wide Camera, and a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera. Combining powerful optics with advanced AI image processing, users can capture vivid, detailed photos and videos in any scenario or zoom level.
Don’t miss the arrival of #MyFirstFoldable HONOR Magic V5 on September 5, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/MagicV5Launch_FB. For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.honor.com/ph/retailers/.
About HONOR
HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.
Reference & Media Contacts (Press Release – September 4, 2025):
Beyond spin through the holidays at the One Stop Record Fair in Trinoma.
Audiophiles and collectors have a reason to celebrate the holiday season early as the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion makes a comeback at the Ayala Malls TriNoma Activity Center from September 12 to 16, 2025.
Get into the holiday vibe at this five-day record fair and score early the best vinyl records, turntables, other audio equipment and various collectibles from 40 participating sellers.
Be ready to dig through crates filled with vintage and newly released vinyl records—with most at a discounted price—spanning all genres, as well as cassette tapes and CDs, from Mamsy Records, Spin the Reel Music Trade, Perfect Day Records, Sounds Inc.,Vinyl Fields Records, Rudys Record Store, D’ Neighbor’s Stuff ,Vicor Records among others. Buy that dream turntable or just window shop from Rega and Audio Technica. Speakers, headphones, earphones and other audio gear from Marshall and vivo will also be available.
Adding the warmth to the chilly days ahead are live DJ sets from Lourd de Veyra, Par Satelite, DJ Beejay Groovey D, Carlo Cordova, DJ Girltrendo, Bong Bautista, Sherwin Porta, Christian Combate, Carlo Tayag, Jojo Ortiz, Emil Catalan, Richard Ronquillo, Ely Carag and Kenneth Tanso.
Beyond music, the fair will also showcase art from Gigzilla, Fine Time Studios, Thet and Jurassic Crafts PH, Jecman and Dibuholabs, who will be offering prints, stickers and handcrafted works that highlight the creative energy of Manila’s art scene.
“This coming record fair is extra special because we’re welcoming the Christmas season with more merchants than ever before,” event organizer Sari Osorio said.
“We invite everyone to come, dig and discover music in all its forms. With 40 merchants and a festive lineup of activities, it is going to be our biggest fair yet.”
From carols on the streets to curated holiday playlists played at home, music has always added joy in the country’s famously long holiday season.
As Christmas draws near, the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion promises to bring a festive gathering for people to start the holiday season with music that lasts beyond December 25, 2025.
Manila, Philippines – Global lighting solutions leader Godox has officially made its mark in the Philippines with a landmark launch event held on August 19, 2025, at Shooting Gallery Studios, Makati City, hosted by JG Distribution.
Timed perfectly with World Photography Day, the launch gathered hundreds of creatives – photographers, videographers, filmmakers, directors, content creators, and industry professionals – for an immersive, hands-on show case of Godox’s latest innovation in professional lighting technology.
Empowering Creativity Through Innovation
Since its funding in 1993, Godox has been at the forefront of professional lighting solutions, pushing the boundaries of technology to make world-class tools accessible to both professionals and aspiring creators. From studio photography to large-scale film productions, Godox products have become trusted tools for storytellers around the globe.
Guided by the mission to provide “lighting solutions that empower creativity,” Godox believes every idea deserves the right tools to shine. Its entry into the Philippine market marks a new chapter of support for local creatives, equipping them with the technology to bring their visions to life.
A celebration of Creativity
The launch event served not only as a product showcase but also as a celebration of the Filipino creative community. The program opened with remarks from JG Distribution Founder and Vice President Jill Tan, followed by insights from Ally Xiong of Godox Global and a product presentation from Mulawin Galang, Godox Philippines Brand Manager.
Adding depth to the program were testimonial videos from two of the country’s top equipment rental companies, CMB Film Services Inc. and RSVP Film Studios. Kirk Baltazar of CMB shared that ‘the majority of the lights we are now using are Godox,” underscoring the brand’s growing dominance in professional production environments. Likewise, Rafa Laperal of RSVP Film Studios spoke about how Godox lighting has strengthened their workflow and offered reliable solutions for high-demand projects. Their endorsements highlighted Godox’s reputation as a trusted partner for industry leaders and professionals.
The afternoon was capped by the live contract signing of the Godox Ambassadors, solidifying the brand’s commitment to working closely with Filipino creators. By evening, the celebration continued with interactive “touch and try” stations, launch-exclusive promos, raffle prizes, and a high-energy live performance from OPM favorite Mayonnaise.
Spotlight on Godox Ambassadors
A highlight of the launch was the introduction of the firs-ever Godox Ambassadors in the Philippines – a diverse group of renowned creatives who represent excellence in photography, videography, and visual storytelling:
Abigail Miguel
Arlu Nepomuceno
Chapters by Mayad
Jay Tablante
Ricky Ladia
Toto Villaruel
Treehouse Story
Partners in Innovation
The launch was made possible with the support of global and local partners who share the vision of empowering creators. Brand partners included Scandisk, Sony, Canon, Blackmagic, Lumix, Audio-Technica, Shure, Zoom, IM Rentals, Atomm Studios, Mono Studios, and I Am Abi Masterclass.
To complete the experience, food and beverage partners such as Soimai House, Empanada Royale, Dydo Blend, Naru Cafe, Nutritzz, Sip Water, and Tomoro Coffee kept guests energized and connected throughout the day.
Building a Creative Community
The Godox Philippines launch stood out as one of the most significant creative gatherings of the year, uniting hundreds of the country’s brightest talents under one roof.
“This launch is more than just about products – it’s about building a community where Filipino creators can be inspired, equipped, and empowered,” said Jill Tan, Founder & Vice President of JG Distribution.
About Godox
Founded in 1993, Godox is a global leader in professional lighting solutions, dedicated to empowering photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and creators worldwide. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility. Godox products are now trusted in more than 150 countries.
About JG Distribution
JG Distribution is one of the Philippines’ leading distributors of creative technology brands, bringing world-class tools and innovations to local creatives through retail, distribution, and community initiatives.
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.
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!
HONOR’s AI Phone transforms prenup photos into living, moving memories.
Manila, Philippines – Leading global technology brand HONOR unveiled the extraordinary capabilities of its newest innovation, the HONOR 400 5G, during an exclusive prenup photoshoot featuring celebrity couple Shaira Diaz and EA Guzman. Known as the “AI Phone,” the HONOR 400 5G introduces a nostalgic yet futuristic twist to photography, with its cutting-edge Image-to-Video AI feature that turns still photos into lifelike videos.
A Blend of Nostalgia and Innovation
The prenup shoot, set in the nostalgic ambiance of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City, highlighted how the HONOR 400 5G bridges the past and present. By blending classic love stories with modern technology, the AI phone brought Shaira and EA’s cherished moments to life, capturing not just their smiles but the essence of their love.
The Future of Memory-Making
“Our goal with the HONOR 400 5G is to redefine how people capture and relive their most special moments. This shoot with Shaira and EA showcases the device’s ability to preserve memories while bringing them to life with unparalleled clarity and emotion.” Said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
During the event, media and guests were given an exclusive look at the HONOR 400 5G’s AI capabilities. The Image-to-Video feature left attendees amazed, offering a glimpse into how the device transforms photography into an immersive storytelling experience, perfect for milestones like weddings, travels, and beyond.
Elevating Every Detail with AI
What sets the HONOR 400 5G apart is its ability to evoke deep emotions with every frame. Each AI-powered transformation is designed to highlight the small but meaningful details, from the subtle movements of a veil in the wind to the warmth of sunlight on a couple’s smiles. The result is a photo album that feels alive and dynamic, unlike anything traditional cameras can deliver.
Your Perfect Partner for Capturing Life
The HONOR 400 5G also offers a seamless and intuitive user experience, making advanced AI features accessible to everyone. Whether you’re capturing an intimate prenup shoot, family gatherings, or spontaneous adventures, this phone ensures that every moment becomes a timeless masterpiece. Its sleek design and 5G connectivity further enhance its appeal, proving it’s not just a device but a companion for creating and sharing life’s most meaningful moments.
A Love Story in Motion
For soon-to-wed couples like Shaira and EA, the HONOR 400 5G is more than just a phone, but a gateway to reliving every unforgettable moment. With its sleek design and intuitive AI features, the device is set to become a must-have for anyone looking to preserve their love stories in the most innovative way possible.
The HONOR 400 5G will officially be available in stores nationwide starting June 17, 2025. Designed to be the ultimate tool for memory-making, the phone caters to photography enthusiasts, tech lovers, and anyone who wants to capture their most treasured moments in the most innovative way possible. Stay tuned as HONOR unveils full details at the official launch, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/H400Launch_PR!
Never miss the latest updates about the HONOR 400 5G and visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
About HONOR
HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.
The latest flagship smartphone of HONOR is finally coming to PH!
HONOR fans and photography enthusiasts are thrilled of the Best in Zoom Photography, HONOR Magic 7 Pro that will launch on April 10, 2025.
Manila City, Philippines, April 04, 2025 – Global technology brand HONOR just teased the arrival of its much-awaited flagship smartphone HONOR Magic7 Pro on April 10, 2025. Known for its style and durability, HONOR is introducing yet another powerful device with zoom capabilities that can outperform rivals.
“We are very excited to introduce this new flagship smartphone to the Philippine market. In terms of zoom photography, we have conducted a comparison between its rivals and it’s a clear win for HONOR Magic7 Pro. This is just one of the edges of this smartphone and we couldn’t wait to share more on April 10,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
In an exclusive preview of the HONOR Magic7 Pro, HONOR Philippines set up a comparison between its upcoming flagship smartphone and its rivals. With a subject that is 500 meters away, the three smartphones’ zoom capabilities were put to a test. In the end, it’s a clear win for HONOR Magic7 Pro and its AI SuperZoom feature.
Committed to providing the ultimate AI Phone experience, HONOR introduced the HONOR Magic7 Pro which features cutting-edge AI capabilities that revolutionize photography, enhance display quality, and deliver exceptional hardware performance. The HONOR Magic7 Pro comes with the Google Gemini app pre-installed. This AI assistant from Google can help users enhance ideas, learn in new ways, write emails, plan events and more.
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
About HONOR
HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.
