DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Press Release

  • The Philippine Book Festival: A National Stage for Filipino Books and The Ultimate Book Experience

    The Philippine Book Festival (PBF) is the country’s only book festival dedicated exclusively to Filipino-authored and published works. Powered by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), it brings together thousands of Filipino books, educational materials, and creative works in a single space for culture, learning, and conversation—and, more than a marketplace, a shared third place for readers, writers, teachers, illustrators, publishers, students, families, and literary enthusiasts, all under one roof.

    Since its launch in 2023, the PBF has steadily grown in reach and scale across its first three editions. PBF 2026 runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, in Mandaluyong City.

    Into the Gubat

    This year’s PBF gathers under the theme Gubat ng Karunungan—The Rainforest of Knowledge. A gubat is alive, layered, and interconnected, and our literary ecosystem is no different. Featured as the festival’s four signature realms, each one represents a distinct corner of Philippine literature and learning: different audiences, different genres—one forest, thriving and alive.

    Kid Lit is built for young readers, featuring picture books, learning materials, and titles that nurture a lifelong love of stories.

    Komiks brings the universe of Filipino comics to life, honoring the legends of the form while spotlighting emerging visual storytellers.

    Booktopia is a meeting ground for the many voices shaping the Filipino literary imagination—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, essays, and more.

    Aral Aklat is dedicated to learning, featuring textbooks, teaching guides, and educational resources for classrooms, teachers, and library hubs across the country.

    The Philippines is a nation of many languages, many regions, many voices—from Luzon to Mindanao, from the city streets to rural barangays, from fantasy novels to research publications. Every story
    strengthens this ecosystem    . Maglakad. Maglibot. Maligaw. Every reader is an explorer, every page a forest.

    Creative Corners of PBF

    Alongside its four realms, the PBF stages exhibitions that connect the literary with contemporary creativity—from rare historical texts to art installations. Past editions have featured:

    • The Rare Books Collection from the National Library of the Philippines, including facsimiles of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.
    • The Ang INK art installation, featuring the creative works of children’s book illustrators
    • The History of Komiks by Randy Valiente
    • Mundo ng Trese by Kajo Baldisimo
    • NCCA School of Living Traditions
    • NCCA-PVAS art installation and exhibition

    For this year, five activation spaces complete the festival experience:

    Lugar Lagdaan is your go-to spot for book signings. Meet the people behind the stories you love.
    Bahay Ilustrador is where illustrators, comic artists, and graphic storytellers show how images speak louder than words.
    Gubat ng Karunungan is a forest of learning, workshops, and masterclasses for curious minds of all ages.
    Fiesta Stage is the main stage, the heartbeat of PBF, where grand performances and epic panels unfold.
    Umpukan is the chill zone for intimate talks and idea-sharing sessions where conversations flow freely.

    Together, these creative corners add new layers of visual and cultural depth to the PBF.

    The Audience Pulse

    From 2023 to 2025, the PBF drew more than 120,000 visitors and, through its partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), helped generate PHP 946 million in institutional book sales in 2024
    alone. Beyond retail, the festival has reshaped how books reach classrooms: through a coordinated review process between DepEd and the NBDB, regions can now identify and acquire books that reflect
    their local contexts and students’ needs    .

    The Vision of PBF

    The PBF was launched as a national effort to improve access to quality, affordable Filipino-authored books, addressing long-standing gaps in distribution for both retail and institutional buyers. At the festival’s opening, welcome remarks from DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo Sonny” Angara and NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade will set the tone for discussions that will shape the future of educational resources in the country.

    The PBF Experience

    PBF 2026 brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. The writers whose pages many of us grew up with—Ricky Lee, Virgilio Almario, Ambeth Ocampo—will be on hand alongside trade-book
    favorites Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. Viral reads, poetry, pop fiction, indie zines, and award-winning titles: every kind of reader finds their people here.

    Honoring Filipino Stories

    On March 14, the Fiesta Stage will host the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA)—honoring the authors,illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose work has shaped and sustained Philippine
    literature. It is the festival’s day set aside entirely for the recognition of excellence and affirmation of the strength, creativity, and diversity of Filipino storytelling today.

    The Philippine Book Festival is more than a gathering of books. It is a gathering of the nation’s voices—where writers meet readers, teachers meet students, and communities come together around stories
    that are unmistakably ours. Literature lives when it is shared, celebrated, and felt together.

    Come witness Filipino literature in its grandest form, in its fullest expression.

    We will see you at the Philippine Book Festival 2026!

    REFERENCE:

    NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD (NBDB) COMMUNICATIONS

  • Camella Forecasts Multigenerational Living as the Next Frontier in Philippine Real Estate

    Camella Forecasts Multigenerational Living as the Next Frontier in Philippine Real Estate

    Multigenerational living—where grandparents, parents, children, and extended relatives reside within a single household—has long been a hallmark of the Filipino way of life. Deeply rooted in the spirit of bayanihan, the collective sense of unit, it embodies a social landscape where emotional bonds, practical interdependence, and cultural continuity are valued in equal measure. Historically prevalent in ancestral homes, this living arrangement has become increasingly common in urban and suburban contexts, driven by economic realities, demographic shifts, and shifting real estate market dynamics.

    Why Do Filipino Families Choose Multi-Generational Living

    Recognizing the Filipino tradition of extended families living under one household, Camella has introduced multigenerational homes, designed with ample living spaces that foster privacy and interaction.

    Over the years, the Philippine housing sector has undergone significant transformations, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of the residential model. Data from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) show that extended or multi-family households increased from 25 percent in 1990 to 29 percent in 2020, while homes for nuclear families declined from 71 percent to 61 percent over the same period. Figures from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also note that escalating property prices—up to 6.5 percent year-on-year as of 2022—combined with inflationary pressures and metropolitan congestion, have made multigenerational homeownership a pragmatic and financially feasible strategy, enabling families to consolidate resources, secure premium locations, and invest in real estate properties as a form of inheritance.

    Design imperatives for a dynamic market

    For real estate, this creates opportunities to reimagine residential design to meet the needs and preferences of larger, more complex households. Homes must be configured with privacy to foster shared experiences while allowing each generation the autonomy they require. Adaptability has also emerged as a critical priority, with flexible spaces that provide shifting functions, provisions for auxiliary kitchens, and convertible open or enclosed areas, ensuring the house they purchased remains relevant through decades of change.

    Inclusivity further strengthens the appeal of a multigenerational home. Accessibility features such as step-free entries, wider doorways, and non-slip flooring enable senior family members to age in place with comfort, while enhancing safety for all. Aesthetic harmony is given equal importance, as designs that merge traditional architectural cues with modern styling can resonate across age groups—satisfying the sentimental preferences of older residents while aligning with the contemporary tastes of younger residents.

    A home for generations

    Camella continues to uphold its mission of making homeownership attainable and adaptable to the aspirations of Filipino families, ensuring that every generation finds a space they can truly call their own.

    Camella has taken a key step toward meeting this demand with its newest premium residential line, crafted for multigenerational living. Designed to reflect the aspirations of Filipinos in extended households, it offers expansive house models, including Fiona, Gianna, and Hera, ranging from 140 to 170 square meters, on lot sizes from 130 square meters, giving ample configurations for multiple private retreats and communal gathering zones.

    Through intentional planning, bedrooms provide privacy for each generation, while expansive kitchens—often with auxiliary cooking areas—anchor forever homes as functional and social sanctuaries. Open-plan living and dining areas allow for flexibility, easily transforming to host milestone celebrations or quiet evenings of shared success. Outdoor features, such as balconies, pocket gardens, patios, and carports, extend the livable space, offering both routine and recreational benefits.

    Adding a distinctive edge to its residential portfolio, Camella also introduces three-storey townvillas called Tiara and Chiara—housing innovations designed for hybrid home-and-work lifestyles. These residences are ideal for pioneering professionals seeking to integrate career and home life seamlessly, as well as expanding entrepreneurs who require multipurpose spaces for both living and running a business.  With dedicated floors that can be configured as private workspaces or family quarters, the townvillas deliver the versatility needed to meet the diverse requirements of today’s multigenerational households.

    As family structures diversify, Camella expands its residential portfolio with house models tailored to every life stage. For growing households of Overseas Filipinos, Camella offers spacious configurations to accommodate the dynamics of family life. Recognizing the Filipino tradition of extended families living under one household, it has introduced multigenerational homes, designed with ample living spaces that foster privacy and interaction.

    Camella has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of Filipino families, setting the standard for future residential neighborhoods and creating a benchmark for accessible yet aspirational living. Through its modern editions, Camella continues to uphold its mission to make homeownership not only attainable but also adaptable to the aspirations of Filipino families, ensuring that every generation finds a space they can truly call their own.

    The next frontier in Philippine housing

    Camella has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of Filipinos, setting the standard for future residential neighborhoods and creating a benchmark for accessible yet aspirational living.

    In a nation where family is both foundation and framework, the residential developments that will lead the market are those designed for all generations. By adapting cultural insight, market intelligence, and future-ready design, Camella not only responds to a growing housing segment—it defines it. These are homes that honor tradition while embracing innovation, creating living spaces that stand as legacies: adaptable, inclusive, and attuned to the evolving lives of the Filipino families who will call them their own.

    The Philippines’ largest homebuilder

    Camella is the flagship brand of the Philippines’ largest integrated property developer, Vista Land, providing homeowners with over 600,000 homes in 1,250 beautifully designed communities across  49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities.

    The leading and preferred housing brand with a nationwide geographic reach, Camella builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.

    The new Camella home series honors tradition while embracing innovation, creating living spaces that stand as legacies: adaptable, inclusive, and attuned to the evolving lives of the Filipino who will call them their own.

    To know more about Camella and its developments across the islands, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial. Make your forever home a reality!

    REFERENCE:

    Ralph Raymond Rufino

  • Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    Firmness, Fairness, and Full Preparedness: Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates

    The Chairman of COMELEC recently issued an statement of firmness, fairness, and full preparedness to Voters and Candidates.

    In a comprehensive public statement, George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), highlighted the Commission’s readiness, integrity safeguards, and commitment to inclusive and credible elections.

    Swift but Careful Ballot Printing

    On the printing of ballots for the March 14 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, Chairman Garcia emphasized operational preparedness. He explained that ballot printing could begin immediately and be completed within days. However, speed would never compromise quality.

    Every ballot, he assured, will undergo strict verification, checked thoroughly for clarity, cleanliness, smudges, misprints, or defects that would require reprinting. The Commission is prepared to complete the entire process within five working days, demonstrating both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His message was clear: preparedness must be matched by precision.

    Zero Tolerance for Premature Campaigning

    Chairman Garcia issued a strong reminder to candidates to strictly observe election guidelines, especially since the Antipolo election will be conducted manually. Premature campaigning, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

    He warned that COMELEC will closely monitor violations, particularly the distribution of money or goods during prohibited periods. The Commission will not hesitate to disqualify candidates who break the rules, a stance he noted has already been proven in past enforcement actions.

    This firm posture reinforces COMELEC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

    Early Voting and Inclusive Participation On Election Day, March 14, 2026, COMELEC will reimplement its successful Early Voting Hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. These hours are exclusively reserved for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. The initiative reflects the Commission’s continuing effort to make elections more accessible and humane.

    Chairman Garcia also confirmed coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow qualified detainees who are registered voters in Antipolo’s 2nd District to cast their votes. He stressed that no eligible Filipino should be left behind when it comes to the right to vote.

    Bangsamoro Registration and Modernization Push

    Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC resumed voter registration from February 9 to March 30, 2026. Through the Register Anywhere Program (RAP), Bangsamoro residents from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area may register in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns without returning to their provinces.

    Chairman Garcia strongly advocated for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election to be automated, explaining that conducting a fully manual election in the region would pose serious logistical and operational challenges.

    Transparency and Respect in Campaigning In line with its transparency commitment, COMELEC released online the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven Antipolo candidates, allowing voters to be properly informed about those seeking office.

    Chairman Garcia also appealed for respectful campaigning, avoiding excessive noise, traffic disruption, and community disturbance. He reminded candidates that the Anti-Discrimination Resolution remains in effect. Personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, and below-the-belt tactics can lead to disqualification, as demonstrated in previous cases.

    A Clear Standard for Elections

    Through his message, Chairman Garcia projected a leadership style defined by preparedness, fairness, inclusivity, and strict enforcement of the law. His words serve not only as guidance to candidates but as reassurance to voters: elections will be conducted with order, transparency, and accountability.

    For COMELEC under his leadership, democracy is not merely administered, it is actively safeguarded.

    Reference:

    Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas

    President and Editor-in-Chief

    TAG Media Group

  • Haier lights Up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to Welcome 2026

    Haier lights Up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to Welcome 2026

    Manila, Philippines — Recently, Haier lights up EDSA with Paris Saint-Germain Partnership to welcome 2026. Global home appliance brand Haier welcomed the new year by bringing the spirit of world-class football to Filipino audiences, as a New Year television commercial featuring stars of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was showcased on a prominent EDSA billboard in Metro Manila.

    The local activation forms part of Haier’s global campaign with PSG, which saw landmark outdoor screens light up across major cities worldwide on December 31, 2025. The campaign highlights the shared values of excellence, innovation, and leadership that define both Haier and one of football’s most successful clubs.

    Haier became an Official Partner of Paris Saint-Germain in September 2025 through a multi-year agreement running until 2028. The partnership aims to integrate football passion into everyday life by connecting PSG’s champion mindset with Haier’s smart home technologies and user-centric innovations.

    The New Year TVC, now visible to thousands of daily commuters along EDSA, features PSG players delivering a festive greeting while reinforcing a champion spirit that resonates with Filipino fans, as global football continues to grow in popularity in the Philippines.

    Driven by the same pursuit of excellence seen on the pitch, Haier designs its products around people—powered by technology and proven in daily use. This philosophy is supported by Haier’s global localization strategy, ensuring solutions are tailored to the needs and lifestyles of consumers in different markets, including the Philippines.

    Through high-impact outdoor placements, digital campaigns, and global sports partnerships, Haier continues to strengthen emotional connections with consumers worldwide. As 2026 begins, Haier remains committed to delivering champion experiences through innovation, technology, and shared values—bringing global inspiration closer to Filipino homes.

    Building on its presence in the Philippines, Haier’s New Year activation brings global football excitement closer to Filipino fans. By lighting up a key EDSA billboard, the brand connects world-class innovation with everyday life, reaching commuters and households alike.

    The activation highlights Haier’s commitment to smart, user-focused solutions that make modern living easier and more enjoyable. From energy-efficient appliances to connected home technologies, Haier continues to design products that fit seamlessly into Filipino lifestyles.

    With football growing in popularity in the Philippines, Haier’s partnership with Paris Saint-Germain inspires teamwork, passion, and excellence—values that the brand brings to homes across the country as 2026 kicks off.

    Reference:

    Haier PR

    Lariza Garcia

  • A Look Back on How HONOR X9 Series Became the No. 1 Mid-range Smartphone in PH

    A Look Back on How HONOR X9 Series Became the No. 1 Mid-range Smartphone in PH

    It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January.

    Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2025 – Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.

    “When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

    The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year.  What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test– and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

    “One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.

    That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.

    The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.

    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: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

    In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

    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:

    Pao Oga 
    PR Manager  paoo_honor@prl.ph   09190016898    		Denis Santos 
    PR Supervisor  deniss_honor@prl.ph  09171745327
  • A new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City: The Tribute Hotel

    A new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City: The Tribute Hotel

    The Tribute Hotel is a new address for stylish stays and celebrations in Quezon City.

    Quezon City, Philippines–Right in the heart of Tomas Morato in Quezon City, touted as the “Entertainment Capital of the Philippines,” lies The Tribute Hotel Quezon City, a chic and comfy hotel quietly making its mark as one of the city’s newest lifestyle destinations for staycations or dazzling celebrations.

    An establishment that blends comfort, thoughtful design, and a sense of ease that feels both modern, welcoming, and rejuvenating, The Tribute Hotel had its soft opening in November 2024. Since then, the hotel has been drawing attention for offering a refined yet relaxed stay experience in one of Quezon City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

    With a design that eyes both business and leisure travelers, The Tribute Hotel offers well-appointed rooms that balance function and comfort. Currently available for booking are the Deluxe Room and Superior Twin Room, both equipped with lifestyle essentials such as flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, mini refrigerators, kettles, and complete bathroom amenities.

    Deluxe Rooms, on the other hand, come with a bathtub and the option of twin or queen beds at the same rate, while Superior Twin Rooms feature a sleek shower setup. Guests also enjoy access to the hotel’s pool, gym facilities, and breakfast for two already included in published rates. A larger Junior Suite is set to open next year, expanding the hotel’s offerings even further.

    Beyond its rooms, The Tribute Hotel positions itself as a versatile venue for gatherings of all kinds. Its three function rooms—Ibiza, Valencia, and Mallorca—are designed to host everything from intimate meetings to milestone celebrations. Ibiza, the largest at 165 square meters, can accommodate up to 120 guests, while Valencia and Mallorca offer more intimate settings for smaller groups. Banquet menus are curated by the hotel’s in-house kitchen, with flexible options tailored to different budgets and occasions.

    Adding to the hotel’s lifestyle appeal is Don Tomas, its signature restaurant, which serves Spanish fusion cuisine in a stylish yet approachable setting. Here, classic Spanish flavors are reimagined with modern touches, making it a go-to spot for both hotel guests and local diners. This holiday season, The Tribute Hotel also rolls out special Christmas buffet dinners on December 24 and 31, priced at Php 2,000 nett per person, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

    As a new player in Quezon City’s hospitality scene, The Tribute Hotel QC is carving out its niche by offering more than just a place to stay. With its central location, thoughtful amenities, flexible event spaces, and growing dining experiences, it presents itself as a destination where stays, celebrations, and everyday moments feel effortlessly well put together.

    The Tribute Hotel Quezon City is located at 99 Scout Gandia, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. For bookings and reservations, visit the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages, email reservations@thetributehotel.ph, or call 0977 203 3805.

    A festive peek at the hotel’s future as a social hotspot

    Over the weekend, the hotel offered a glimpse of its potential as a social hub when it hosted the annual Christmas gathering of the Filipino Bloggers Network (FBN), a prestigious group of some of the country’s most recognized members of the blogging community.

    The celebration unfolded as a relaxed, convivial evening—filled with shared stories, good food, and laughter—reflecting the kind of warm, community-driven experiences the hotel aims to create. Rather than a formal affair, the night felt like a reunion, made more memorable by the hotel’s attentive service and comfortable, inviting spaces.

    The FBN also extends its heartfelt thanks to all the generous sponsors for their invaluable support in making the FBN Christmas gathering a success. Their partnership, contributions, and unwavering commitment helped bring the celebration to life and created a memorable experience for everyone involved. The group truly appreciates the trust and collaboration, and will be looking forward to more meaningful partnerships in the future.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Divine Reyes

  • White Castle Whisky goes light’ with charming Ashley Rivera for 2026 calendar

    White Castle Whisky goes light’ with charming Ashley Rivera for 2026 calendar

    White Castle Whisky has announced Ashley Rivera as the 2026 White Castle Whisky Calendar Girl.

    The brand’s new Calendar Girl is a charismatic and comedic GMA Network artist, digital creator, and online and television personality

    White Castle Whisky proudly names Ashley Rivera, GMA Network artist, digital creator, and one of the country’s most recognizable online and television personalities, as the 2026 White Castle Whisky Calendar Girl. Known for her charisma, comedic ability, and screen presence, Ashley brings out a more refreshing and comical side to the calendar tradition, in line with White Castle Light Whisky’s tagline “Dapat light lang!”

    The official unveiling of the White Castle Whisky 2026 Calendar was held during a special press conference on December 19, 2025 at Rampa Drag Club, Quezon City, 3 to 6 pm.

    This moment makes Ashley the newest addition to the iconic line of White Castle models such as Evangeline Pascual, Lora Tolentino, Techie Agbayani, Carmi Martin, Maria Isabel Lopez, Cristina Gonzales, Glydel Mercado, Roxanne Ginoo, Ninong Ry, Sassa Girl, Ria Atayde, Angelie “Pench” Andanar, and more.

    This year’s calendar aims to showcase a fusion of classic White Castle allure and contemporary Filipino pop culture, with Ashley embodying confidence, charm, and the spirit of today’s empowered Filipina, while showcasing her natural wit and humor. Her selection is a testament to White Castle Whisky’s brand values of encouraging individuality, authentic expression, and lighthearted enjoyment of the moments in one’s life.

    “I’m incredibly honored and thrilled,” Ashley shares. White Castle Whisky has such an iconic place in Filipino culture. To be chosen as the 2026 calendar girl feels surreal—l’ve been dreaming about this after being inspired by Tita Carmi Martin, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we created.”

    A GMA Sparkle Artist, Ashley Rivera attracted fans as a former regular cast member of the longest-running sketch comedy and gag show Bubble Gang, and other shows on the network. Before her career in mainstream TV acting, she was famous on TikTok and YouTube for her comedic persona “Petra Mahalimuyak.*

    In 2024, she started her podcast titled Chicks 2 Go, where she hosts with fellow comedian and internet personality Hershey Neri as they talk, joke, and share random relatable stories. In one of the earlier episodes of the said podcast.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    White PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • No Plunder Case, No Guilt: Romualdez Camp Rebukes Claims Over Flood Control

    No Plunder Case, No Guilt: Romualdez Camp Rebukes Claims Over Flood Control

    Recently, Romualdez camp rebukes claims over the flood control. No plunder case, no guilt.

    The camp of former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez rejected attempts to pin plunder and other serious crimes on him, underscoring that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) itself made clear its referral to the Ombudsman was “issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability.”

    In a statement, Atty. Ade Fajardo, lawyer and spokesperson of Romualdez, said recent statements attributed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) should not be misconstrued as proof of wrongdoing.

    “We take note of the DPWH Secretary’s statement. However, it is important to clarify that a DPWH ‘recommendation’ is not a finding, much less a determination of guilt,” Fajardo said.

    Fajardo categorically denied reports suggesting that the ICI had recommended the filing of plunder or other serious charges against the former Speaker.

    “It is not true that the ICI has recommended to the Ombudsman that former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez be charged with plunder or other serious crimes related to the flood control or 2025 budget issue,” Fajardo said.

    On the contrary, he pointed out that the ICI itself underscored the absence of any adverse conclusion against Romualdez in its referral to the Office of the Ombudsman.

    “In fact, the ICI made it clear in their referral report that it was ‘issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of former Speaker Romualdez,’” he added.

    Fajardo said Romualdez respects institutional processes and is confident that the Ombudsman will assess the matter independently and fairly.

    “We respect due process and will await the Ombudsman to independently evaluate the submissions based on evidence, not press conference soundbites,” he said.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    MR PR

    Ms. Lariza Garcia