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Category: Press Release

  • Philippine Ballet Theatre presents “The Merry Widow” at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre this April 5 and 6

    Philippine Ballet Theatre presents “The Merry Widow” at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre this April 5 and 6

    For its first season production, the Philippine Ballet Theatre presents “The Merry Widow”—a delightful tale brimming with tangled relationships, near misses, and jealous lovers. Originally premiered as an operetta by Franz Lehár in Vienna in 1905, “The Merry Widow” has inspired numerous choreographic adaptations by ballet companies around the world. Set in Paris, the city of love, it explores themes of forbidden and rekindled love, wealth, and deceit.

    In its version, “Merry Widow” is skillfully choreographed and presented by Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ronilo Jaynario, in a way that is sure to resonate with the Filipino audience’s appreciation for passion and drama. The dancers showcase their talents in classical ballet, character dance, mime, and theatrical acting. Franz Lehár’s exquisite melodies will transport audiences to a world of romance, wit, and opulence in “The Merry Widow,” where every note celebrates love and elegance.

    Homage to History

    This ballet has been a true gem for the company. It’s inclusion in the season is an homage to its roots; unbeknownst to many, “The Merry Widow” was among the first ballets ever performed by the company. Former Artistic Director Julie Borromeo’s version premiered in 1987, making waves and establishing PBT as a company with a sophisticated repertoire and innovative approach. It set the tone for what was to come. Almost four decades later, the ballet remains a testament to the vision of the founders: a company capable of competing globally with both Filipino works and classical repertoire. With hopes high, this fifth restaging aims to reaffirm that legacy. As a company guided by an artistic council, continuing the tradition of rich taste, innovation, and undeniable skill is of utmost importance. Through this ballet,PBT wishes to honor PBT’s founding members, expressing gratitude for setting the course toward the PBT of today, the National Performing Arts Company for ballet and contemporary dance. This production is lovingly dedicated to the eleven founding members: Julie Borromeo, Felicitas Radaic, Steve Villaruz, Gener Caringal, Eddie Elejar, Leonor-Orosa Goquinco, Vella Damian, Sony Lopez-Gonzales, the late Tony Fabella, the late Eric Cruz, and the late Inday Gaston-Manosa. Their pursuit of a fresh approach to ballet remains the guiding light for PBT. It’s a fitting ballet to start the year right.

    Cast Update

    Casted members are all debuting in their respective roles. Jimmy Lumba will take on the lead role of Count Danilo Danilovistch, while Jessa Tangalin will portray the elusive Hanna Glawari. The role of Count Camille de Rosillon will be shared by Julafer Fegarido and Justine Joseph Orande, with Sophia Martina Tiangco and Gabbie Jaynario alternating as Valencienne. Bringing humor to the production, veterans Anatoly Panasyukov and Joel Matias will play Baron Mirko Zeta and Njegus, respectively.

    Coming Soon

    Thanks to Philippine Ballet Theatre’s (PBT) partner, Philippine Airlines, and the support of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the National Performing Arts Companies, PBT will have a special limited run at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre.

    The production opens on April 5, 2025, with a matinee at 3:00 PM and a gala performance at 7:30 PM. It concludes on April 6 with a final matinee at 3:00 PM.

    Joyously romantic, this enchanting production promises to sweep audiences off their feet.

    For ticket inquiries, call 09688708887, 09129455151

    and +63286711968 or email secretariat@pbt.org.ph

    REFERENCE:

    PBT 2025PR

  • MOVE Into Your Ready Home in Key Growth Centers With Vista Land Ready-for-Occupancy Properties in Mega Manila and Central Luzon

    MOVE Into Your Ready Home in Key Growth Centers With Vista Land Ready-for-Occupancy Properties in Mega Manila and Central Luzon

    Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, continues to bring the lifelong dream of homeownership to many Filipinos across the archipelago with its MOVE Program. True to its meaning of Making Ownership at Vista Land Easy, its objectives are to streamline the purchase process of select ready-for-occupancy (RFO) house and lot developments and condominium properties in 47 provinces and 149 cities and municipalities and encourage stronger affinity from prospective homeowners in a competitive market.

    As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, Camella remains at the forefront, anticipating shifts in trends and meeting the growing customer expectations.

    MOVE offers flexible payment plans tailored to diverse financial goals, making homeownership attainable to local and overseas buyers. With an easy move-in option requiring only a three percent (3%) down payment or savings of up to 30 percent on spot cash payments, MOVE empowers aspiring owners to secure their preferred residential property. Whether it is a young professional seeking independence, a growing family in need of more space, or an Overseas Filipino securing a brighter future for loved ones, MOVE provides a smart and strategic approach to real estate investment. This offer is available until March 31, 2025 only and is subject to applicable terms and conditions.

    Pioneering Growth and Connectivity in Key Growth Centers

    In Central Luzon, Vista Land master planned developments in Zambales, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pampanga, and Bulacan align with the increasing industrialization and infrastructure expansion.

    MOVE embodies the commitment of the company to building thriving communities across the archipelago through its diverse housing brands. This vision comes to life in its collection of master planned developments called Vista Estates, themed residences of Crown Asia, premium Filipino homes of Camella, condominium properties, vertical villages of Vista Manors, and the value-for-money starter house models of Lumina. Through MOVE, Vista Land plays an essential role in shaping the key growth centers in the country by delivering residential solutions that effortlessly integrate with business districts, commercial centers, and transportation networks.

    The Vista Land  integrated communities in Central Luzon are positioned alongside major road networks and infrastructure projects, reinforcing accessibility and economic mobility.

    In Central Luzon, a region experiencing rapid transformation, Vista Land master planned developments in Zambales, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pampanga, and Bulacan align with the increasing industrialization and infrastructure expansion. These integrated communities are positioned alongside major projects such as the New Manila International Airport, Subic-Clark Railway, and Central Luzon Link Expressway, reinforcing accessibility and economic mobility. As businesses and investors flock to the region, residents benefit from a forward-looking location where retail spaces, lifestyle hubs, and essential services are within reach. With its sprawling landscapes, state-of-the-art facilities, and a combination of nature and modern living, Central Luzon is becoming a preferred destination for those seeking long-term residential and investment opportunities.

    Wake up to breathtaking mountain views and experience the perfect blend of nature and modern living. Your Camella forever home awaits in Rizal.

    Within or close to the National Capital Region, house-and-lot developments in Caloocan, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Taguig, Rizal, and San Jose del Monte,  respond to the growing demand for suburban living with modern conveniences. The neighborhoods cater to young professionals, growing families, and investors looking for secure and spacious homes within well-established communities. With round-the-clock security, green spaces, and proximity to educational institutions, healthcare providers, and commercial centers, coupled with enhanced transportation networks, these residential developments ensure that residents can easily navigate the metro while enjoying privacy and comfort within a well-planned home environment.

    Condominium properties in dynamic districts of the metro—Quezon City, Pasig, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Makati, Manila, and Las Piñas—redefine vertical living for urban dwellers. Rising at the heart of central business districts and entertainment hubs, these high-rise developments cater to young professionals, investors, and lifestyle-driven individuals who value efficiency and connectivity. Offering contemporary designs, premium amenities, and strategic locations near corporate centers, retail districts, and transit lines, these homes in the sky provide a modern lifestyle where work, leisure, and convenience converge. With accessibility to transport systems such as the Metro Rail Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), and national highways, residents can move across the city, making these developments attractive for those who embrace the fast-paced rhythm of metropolitan life.

    MOVE to a New Chapter

    Situated in the middle of Ortigas Center, the 32-storey Currency Tower is a  mixed-use development that seamlessly combines residential, commercial, and office spaces.

    Vista Land shapes modern living through its housing brands by offering more than a place to reside in Central Luzon and Mega Manila. It fosters beautiful communities where convenience, security, investment potential, and lifestyle integration come together. Whether starting anew, upgrading, or investing, MOVE provides the foundation for a well-lived life for Filipino families.

    To learn more about Vista Land  communities nationwide, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandOfficial.

    #MOVE #VistaLand #RFO #MegaManila #CentralLuzon

  • Haier Named the No. 1 Global Brand in Major Appliances for 2024

    Haier Named the No. 1 Global Brand in Major Appliances for 2024

    Why Haier named the No. 1 Global Brand in Major Appliances for 2024?

    Haier has been officially recognized as the number one global brand in major appliances for 2024. This recognition comes from Euromonitor International Limited, based on 2024 volume sales data across key appliance categories. The brand’s continuous commitment to innovation, quality, and consumer satisfaction has solidified its leading position in the global market.

    With a strong focus on technology-driven solutions, energy efficiency, and user-friendly designs, Haier has consistently met the needs of modern households. Its leadership in smart home integration and forward-thinking appliances has resonated with consumers worldwide, helping the brand maintain its top status in the industry.

    The claim, “Haier is the number one brand globally in major appliances in 2024,” is backed by extensive research conducted by Euromonitor International Limited. This certification highlights Haier’s dominance in home laundry appliances, large cooking appliances, microwaves, and refrigeration appliances. The ranking is based on unit share and 2024 volume sales data across retail channels, builder merchants, and the construction sector. This recognition reinforces the trust that millions of consumers place in Haier’s products every day.

    Adding to its credibility, this claim has been reviewed and approved by the Ad Standards Council (ASC), ensuring transparency and accuracy in its communication. The ASC REFERENCE CODE: H0232P031325H further validates this recognition, providing consumers with confidence in Haier’s industry leadership.

    Haier’s rise to the top has been driven by its commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centric solutions. From smart refrigerators with AI-powered features to high-efficiency washing machines, the brand continues to introduce groundbreaking technology that enhances everyday living. Sustainability and energy efficiency also remain key priorities, as Haier focuses on creating appliances that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

    This recognition as the number one global brand in major appliances marks another milestone for Haier as it continues to set industry benchmarks. With an unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence, Haier remains at the forefront of modern home solutions.

    More Creation, More Possibilities.

    REFERENCE:

    HAIER PR

    #Haierph #NewEraOfSmartLiving #MoreCreationMorePossibilities

  • New Location, More Books—See What’s In Store At The PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2025

    New Location, More Books—See What’s In Store At The PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2025

    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

  • NEW PERFORMANCE-FLAGSHIP TURBO SE AND REVISED LINEUP – THE 25MY LOTUS EMIRA RANGE

    NEW PERFORMANCE-FLAGSHIP TURBO SE AND REVISED LINEUP – THE 25MY LOTUS EMIRA RANGE

    • Lotus revises Emira line-up to enhance offering to customers.
    • Emira Turbo, Turbo SE, and Emira V6 to replace the existing First Edition variants.
    • New Emira Turbo SE variant features new levels of performance including an increase in power and torque over the existing Emira First Edition, making it the quickest Emira to date.
    • Emira Turbo SE is capable of 0-100 KM/H in 4 seconds and has a maximum speed of 290 KM/H.
    • New range of option packs and features introduced including new wheel finishes, audio option internal & external model branding
    • Emira Turbo and Emira V6 are available in Vivid Red as the standard color with the Emira Turbo SE featuring Zinc Grey.
    • Complete line-up now available in the Philippines
    • Priced from 12.5M PHP for Emira V6, 12M PHP for Emira Turbo to 12.250M PHP for Emira Turbo SE  
       

    March 12, 2025 – Manila, Philippines

    The new 2025 Emira lineup has arrived in the Philippines, featuring the Emira Turbo, Emira Turbo SE and Emira V6. These models build on the strong foundation set by the Emira First Edition and Emira V6 First Edition, which have captivated driving enthusiasts around the world since their respective launches in 2022 and 2023.

    The new models feature enhanced levels of performance and design whilst building on the attributes the automotive world has come to expect, including striking lines, thrilling dynamic performance delivering a unique blend of ride and handling, outstanding aerodynamics.

    Customers will still have the choice of the Lotus Emira V6 with its supercharged 3.5-litre engine which is matched to a choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Drivers will also be able to choose between the Emira Turbo and Turbo SE which both utilise a 4-cylinder variable geometry Turbocharged engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) gearbox.

    “We are thrilled to announce the addition of new variants to the award winning Emira, one of the most successful Lotus models to date. In 2025, the Emira range will extend to meet wider customer needs
    while retaining the brand’s DNA and driving dynamics Lotus is renowned for”, commented Dan Balmer, President & CEO, Lotus Cars – Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa.

    Powertrain performance

    The Emira Turbo is powered by a 4-cylinder variable geometry turbocharged 360bhp engine with an 8-speed DCT gearbox. This performance has been enhanced in the new Emira Turbo SE which is equipped with 400 bhp and has an increase in torque of 50Nm. The Emira V6 maintains its 400bhp charge-cooled and supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, which is available with a choice of standard 6-speed manual or cost option 6-speed automatic gearbox.

    Core Features

    Lotus has incorporated new levels of performance features and all new design features into the
    Emira Turbo, Emira Turbo SE and Emira V6. In addition to a wide array of options that are available for customers who want to choose the Emira that reflects them.

    Emira Turbo

    The Emira Turbo features new core performance features such as single piece brakes, alongside a host of new design features. These include new 20” 10-Spoke lightweight cast alloy wheel in gloss silver, new ‘Emira Turbo’ branding, new standard foot pedals and a new interior technical fabric headliner.

    Other key core features include Vivid Red paint, black brake callipers, black leather interior, 12-way electric seats, Touring suspension settings and the acclaimed Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport tyres which have been developed exclusively for Emira.

    Emira Turbo SE

    The Emira Turbo SE also hosts a variety of new performance features such as an increase of 40 bhp and 50 Nm which equates to an 11mph increase in top speed and a reduction in 0-100km/h time to 4.0 seconds. The Emira Turbo SE comes with the Lotus Drivers Pack as standard including Sports suspension settings, uprated cross drilled and ventilated two-piece brake discs and launch control.

    In addition to performance enhancements the Emira Turbo SE also comes with a variety of core design features. These include newly finished 20” V-spoke forged Satin Grey wheels as standard as well as Zinc Grey paint, Alcantara headliner, red brake calipers, new ‘Emira Turbo SE’ badging, new black Lotus branding and black Lotus badging and tailpipes.

    Emira V6

    The Emira V6 includes performance features such as cross drilled and ventilated two-piece brake discs, Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport tyres, Touring suspension and a limited slip differential (LSD) for manual
    models. The Emira V6 also hosts a number of design features such as headlining, A-Pillars and Cantrail in black technical fabric and new branding.

    Naming

    The naming of the vehicles stems from Lotus’s rich history.

    The Emira Turbo reflects not only the 2-litre turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine but when the turbo was first implemented in 1980 with the Turbo Esprit, which was one of the early production sports cars to use this technology.

    Further, the Emira Turbo SE harks back to when SE was originally an optional ‘Special Equipment’ package, first introduced on the Type 14 Elite. It was also used with the Type 26 Elan, Elan SE Turbo, Lotus Cortina and the Elan S3, Elan S4 and Plus 2. In addition, Lotus has historically used the SE variant to identify higher output and more standard equipment are the Esprit Turbo SE, Excel SE, Elan SE and the Europa SE. Hence to stay true to the Lotus ‘SE’ brand, the Emira Turbo SE adopts ‘SE’ to reflect the higher output and increased levels of equipment.

    About Lotus  

    Lotus is a global performance brand built on solid foundations and a rich heritage. Since the formation of Lotus in 1948, it has been pioneering true automotive innovation, introducing cutting-edge technologies and designs to meet its uncompromising vision of how a car should look, perform, and feel. Lotus Group is made up of a high-performance sports car business, Lotus Cars, and an all-electric luxury mobility provider, Lotus Technology. Together, we are setting a new standard for automotive excellence.

    The Lotus Media Site contains news, images, films, technical specifications, and full details of current models, as well as heritage cars and engineering technology.

    For media, please contact

    Mae Valdez

    Senior Marketing Manager – Lotus Cars Manila

    Email: mpacatang@autohubgroup.com

    Ramzi Atat             

    Head of Marketing and PR – Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa

    Email: ramzi.atat@eu.lotuscars.com

  • URC Flour “Rises and Shines” with Innovation and Expertise at FCBAI Bakery Fair 2025

    URC Flour “Rises and Shines” with Innovation and Expertise at FCBAI Bakery Fair 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.

  • Philippine Book Festival 2025: BIGGER, BETTER, IN A NEW LOCATION

    Philippine Book Festival 2025: BIGGER, BETTER, IN A NEW LOCATION

    Join the Philippine Book Festival (PBF) 2025: Bigger, Better & New Location.

    MAKATI, PHILIPPINES – The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s biggest all-Filipino book festival is back – this time in a new location that is accessible to many. This year’s PBF will be happening at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, City, from March 13 – 16, 2025.

    Registration is FREE for the four-day book festival, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB). Every year, this project puts Philippine Books at the center if a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with your favorite authors.

    “In just over a month, we are bringing back the Philippine Book Festival. Now in its third year, the PBF started in 2023 as an attempt to create the largest marketplace for Philippine books that the country has yet to see. Now, it has become an important annual gathering for families, educators, creatives, and avid readers – all in the name of Philippine books.” said Charisse Aquino – Tugade, NBDB Executive Director.

    The PBF’s third edition promises to be more exciting, putting the spotlight on the country’s famnous festivals, each one designed by some of the best and brightest Filipino artists working today.

    THE CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE PBF 2025 REALMS. NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade with National Artist and Scriptwriter Ricky Lee together with the artists of PBF 2025 Realms, Paul Eric Roca, Danielle Florendo, Joffrey “Pepot”Atienza and Juno Abreau.

    The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF’s section dedicated to children’s literature), designed by Juno Abreau, 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 text \books, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbenga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, non-fiction and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.

    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 will bring new energy to the festival and draw and even larger audience.

    “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” shared Tugade.

    The PBF is the largest all-Filipino book fair in the country and is one of the NBDB’s flagship programs. NBDB, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this June has amped its readership efforts in the past four years, shifting to solutions-based programming to improve trade and distribution. Concerned with the lack of quality Philippine-authored books in libraries and bookstores across the country, Aguino-Tugade spearheaded the PBF in 2023, a retail activation space that celebrates Philippine books while bringing in revenue for publishing professionals.

    The fair also showcases the creme dela creme of Philippine literature, culture, and content – all situated in an engaging, experienced-based setting that fuses entertainment, education, and learning. Positioning PBF as a favorite pastime (reading) among Filipinos, all for a good cause.

    For complete details, visit the official FaceBook page of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) https://www.facebook.com/NBDBPhilippines

  • CHEF Al’s Baking Secrets with URC Flour

    CHEF Al’s Baking Secrets with URC Flour

    URC Flour’s Baking Secrets of CHEF AI.

    The FCBAI Bakery Fair is back, and this year, the theme “RISE and Shine” couldn’t be more fitting with thousands of bakers from different parts of the world flocked to the World Trade Center for a 3-day baking exhibit.

    This year’s fair is a celebration of resilience and innovation in the baking industry, a testament to the bakers who have weathered challenges and emerged stronger. URC Flour Brand Ambassador Chef Aileen Asilom more popularly known as Chef Ai, graced this year’s Bakery Fair and led the bakery demonstration at the URC Flour booth.

    Chef Aileen’s story is one of inspiration. From her modest beginnings, fueled by a deep love for baking, she has risen to become a respected figure, known for her dedication to sharing her knowledge and empowering fellow bakers. Her journey resonates with many, making her the perfect face for URC Flour, a brand committed to providing quality ingredients for every baker’s dream.

    URC Flour’s booth concept “SIKAT” reinforced the RISE and SHINE theme of this year’s Bakery Fair. Chef Ai’s path to being a successful baker is a story itself of passion and perseverance.

    Choosing the Right Flour

    Chef Ai emphasizes the importance of selecting the appropriate flour for each recipe. “URC Flour offers a diverse range, from the versatile All-Purpose Flour to the robust Hard Flour for breads and the delicate Cake Flour for pastries,” she explains. “Understanding the characteristics of each variant is crucial for achieving the desired texture and outcome” added Chef Ai. She often recommends using URC’s hard flour for breads that need a good rise and chew, and their cake flour for light and airy cakes.

    Chef Ai conducted live baking demonstrations together with other expert bakers,showcasing their signature recipes and innovative techniques, all using URC Flour. Attendees were able to witness firsthand the URC Flour quality products featuring DAISY, GLOBE, CONTINENTAL, SAMPAGUITA, BLEND 100 and CATTLEYA among others.

    The baking demonstration also features baking equipment from Vesmach Hyundai Home Appliances while ingredients for the delicious baked goods are courtesy of Anchor Food Professionals, Sugar King Industries, Oleo-Fats Inc. and Neco Philippines, Inc.

    In collaboration with URC Flour, Chef Ai curated a selection of recipes, featuring both classic favorites and modern creations, that were given to booth attendees to take home and recreate.

    URC Flour: A Partner in Success:

    Chef Al’s passion extends beyond her own creations. She believes in sharing her knowledge and inspiring others to embark on their baking journeys. “Baking is a gift that should be shared,” she says. “Through my partnership with URC Flour, | hope to empower bakers of all levels to create delicious memories.” Chef Ai’s partnership with URC Flour is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and its dedication to supporting the baking community. “URC Flour is more than just an ingredient; it’s a partner in my baking journey,” she concludes.