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Philippine Disability Expo and Concert 2025 Concludes Three-Day Celebration of Inclusion and Empowerment

The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), in partnership with the Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), successfully concluded the Philippine Disability Expo and Concert 2025, a three-day gathering that brought together government leaders, advocates, employers, organizations, and families in support of disability inclusion. The event was held on December 2–4, 2025 at Megatrade Hall 1 & 2, SM Megamall, culminating in a concert attended by hundreds of participants.

Day 1: Opening Ceremony and Conversations on Neurodiversity

The Expo opened on December 2 with messages of support from key partners and agencies. The program began with the Mandaluyong Drum & Lyre and an opening performance by Kidz Groove, followed by welcome remarks from Engr. Bien C. Mateo, Senior Vice President for Operations and SM Cares Program Director for PWDs.

NCDA Executive Director Glenda D. Relova delivered the opening message, followed by insights from Grant Javier, Executive Director of Project Inclusion Network. A video message of support was delivered by Australian Embassy Second Secretary Abigail Bakker (DFAT) while Atty. Zebedin M. Azis, Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental & Legislative Affairs of the DSWD delivered the keynote message.

Ribbon cutting ceremony.

The ribbon-cutting formally opened the Expo, leading into the first major session of the day:
“Beyond Labels: Parenting in the World of Neurodiversity,” a fireside chat moderated by Candy Pangilinan, featuring Saab and Jim Bacarro, Ginger Gaddi, and RJ Jimenez, who also performed a song number. Exhibitor presentations and special performances closed Day 1.

A recording of the Day 1 livestream is accessible here:
FB Live: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Ck7uVHEGW/

Day 2: International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Firefly Screening

The second day coincided with the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

The morning began with the screening of “Firefly,” the first Filipino film with Audio Description, held at SM Cinema 2. This was followed by the recognition of the GITC Awardees from Valenzuela City, Quezon City, Makati City, and Muntinlupa City.

In the afternoon, audiences participated in the Firefly Talkback Dialogue, an interactive forum featuring an open Q&A on accessible storytelling and media representation. Exhibitor presentations continued, followed by the PBDN Learning Session with Nestlé Philippines, which shared workplace accessibility practices and success stories of employees with disabilities. The day concluded with the recognition of partner organizations and the celebration of workplace inclusion achievements.

Day 3: Closing Activities and #PwedengPWDe Concert

The Expo’s final day featured interactive activities, games, and engagements with exhibitors in the morning and afternoon.

In the evening, the event culminated in the #PwedengPWDe Dito: A Benefit Concert.  hosted by Pauline Versoza, seasoned journalist and media professional. The show opened with the Mandaluyong Drum & Lyre, followed by welcome remarks from Grant Javier, PIN’s ED.

The concert featured a lineup of PWD and mainstream artists, including:

  • Sugarcane
  • Anne Charmaine Santos & Benedict Banghulot
  • Igman Tarubal (Spoken Word)
  • Melissa Corpus
  • Vincent Ebio (Dance Performance)
  • Eman Macaso
  • Princess Velasco
  • Leanne and Naara
  • I Belong to the Zoo (Finale performance)

The organizers opened the concert free to all PWDs and implemented enhanced accessibility measures so participants could fully engage in and enjoy the celebration. The audience enjoyed a night of music that highlighted representation, creativity, and the shared advocacy for an inclusive arts and culture landscape.

Fireside chat – “Beyond Labels – Parenting in the World of Neurodiversity.

A Collective Step Toward Inclusion

The Philippine Disability Expo and Concert 2025 brought together more than 80 exhibitors from various sectors, including government agencies, NGOs, advocacy groups, employers, and PWD-owned enterprises. Across three days, attendees engaged in learning sessions, forums, recognition programs, and creative showcases that underscored the importance of accessibility, equitable opportunities, and community participation.

NCDA, PIN, and PBDN expressed their appreciation for the strong support of partners, exhibitors, and participants who contributed to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.

 

#PhilippineDisabilityExpo2025 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Life ‘n Arts Festival 2025: The Largest Outdoor Art Festival in the South

The Life ‘n Arts Festival 2025 is set to take place on October 24–26, 2025 at Town Plaza, Alabang Town Center. This three-day festival stands as a premier celebration of creativity, culture, and community — uniting artists, musicians, and creatives of all kinds in a vibrant showcase of talent.

With thousands of attendees expected from Metro Manila and beyond, the festival aims to amplify artistry and innovation through a series of engaging programs and activities. This advocacy to inspire audiences, entertain communities, and promote talent.

The festival features a diverse lineup of events designed to engage, educate, and inspire:

Art Auction – The largest art sale of the festival, offering exclusive pieces for collectors and enthusiasts, providing opportunities to connect directly with artists and acquire remarkable works of art.

Art Talks – Insightful discussions with established artists as they share their journeys, experiences, and perspectives on contemporary art and creative practice.

On-the-Spot Painting – A live showcase where artists bring their visions to life, demonstrating creativity and mastery in real time.

Performances – A vibrant program featuring live music, dance, cultural showcases, and special presentations such as the Fashion Show and Cosplay Parade.

Workshops – Hands-on learning experiences in pottery, crochet, and other creative crafts, open to both beginners and enthusiasts.

Fashion Show – A presentation of artistry and style, featuring the works of designers who embody innovation and Filipino craftsmanship.

Competitions – Opportunities for emerging and established talents to shine through events such as Battle of the Canvas, Photography Contest, Short Film Contest, Cosplay Competition, and the Pet PAWshion Show.

The Life ‘n Arts Festival 2025 invites the public to be part of this inspiring celebration that highlights talent and the power of artistic collaboration.

Contact Details:

Email: lifenartsfestival@gmail.com
Contact Numbers: 0985 775 6340 / (049) 254 0019

#LAF2025 #LifeNArts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries Celebrates 36 Grandest Years of Living Like Jesus with a National Prayer for Peace

“This is a big event to unite the churches and awaken the people of the Philippines to pray together. “ — Apostle Renato D. Carillo

 

Quezon City, Philippines — In these challenging times, as corruption fuels unrest and massive demonstrations rise across the Philippines, we are called to lift our country before God in fervent prayer. It is only through united and persevering intercession that we can appeal for His mercy and divine intervention—trusting that He alone can establish righteousness, bring healing, and secure lasting transformation in our land. Thus, a National Prayer for Peace will be held on

November 5, 2025 (Wed.) / 2PM

Playtime FilOil Centre, Santolan Road,

Bonny Serrano Avenue, Brgy. Corazon de Jesus

San Juan City

In this event, Churches and ministries from various fellowships, sects, and denominations will also be joining, demonstrating that despite differences, the Body of Christ is united in seeking God’s mercy, guidance, and breakthrough for the Philippines in these crucial times. “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”    –   1 Tim 2:1-2

Apostle Renato D. Carillo, Founder and Spiritual Director Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries, Inc., and host of Oras ng Himala.

36th Living Like Jesus Anniversary

Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries will also celebrate its grandest 36th Living Like Jesus Anniversary—standing as a living testimony of God’s unfailing love, steadfast faithfulness, and the countless lives transformed through His Word and power. This will be held on

October 8 & 9, 2025 (Wed. & Thurs.) / 1PM

at JIOSWM worship center:

#1069 EDSA, Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City

(behind Shell Station-Muñoz, in front of DMCI Homes-Zinnia Towers)

 October 12, 2025 (Sun.) / 4PM

(Gates open at 2PM)

 Marikina Sports Center, 24 Sumulong Highway, Marikina City

This anniversary promises a transformative experience for everyone seeking physical healing and miracles, emotional restoration, or spiritual renewal. It will be a time of divine encounter, where the supernatural power of God will manifest to bring hope, joy, and life-changing miracles. The blind see, the deaf hear, the mute speak, the lame walk, the oppressed are set free, and all kinds of sickness and disease are healed by the mighty power of God!Furthermore, the event will feature the Mission of Love – Love in Action, a heartfelt initiative dedicated to demonstrating God’s compassion.

This blessed celebration will draw a remarkable gathering of distinguished guests, influencers, church leaders and thousands of individuals from across the nation and abroad, from our congregation to participants from various fellowships, sects, and denominations.

These two events will be broadcast live via social media platforms, reaching millions of viewers. This global live stream will connect people from the ministry’s 500 chapters and outreaches across the Philippines and extend its impact to 70 nations worldwide.

Through this far-reaching platform, the National Prayer for Peace and the ministry’s Grandest 36th Living Like Jesus Anniversary will serve as powerful avenues for God’s move. As churches, ministries, and believers unite in prayer, the cry for righteousness, healing, and transformation in the Philippines will echo beyond borders.  At the same time, testimonies of miracles and manifestations of God’s power and glory will inspire faith and ignite hope among the nations.

The author during the Question and Answer portion at the press conference of JIOSWM.

For inquiries, visit:

JESUS IS OUR SHIELD WORLDWIDE MINISTRIES Worship Center

#1069 EDSA, Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City, Philippines

(Behind Shell Station-Muñoz, in front of DMCI Homes-Zinnia Towers)

Call the Living Like Jesus hotline:

(+632) 88-546-796 / +63 906 517 6349 (CALL)

+63 985 340 5073 / +63 927 411 9503   (CALL / TEXT)

Connect on Social Media:@JIOSWMofficial

Learn more: www.jioswm.org

#JIOSWM #nationalprayerforpeace #36thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Bigger, Bolder HABI Market Fair Celebrates 15 Years at SPACE One Ayala

On its 15th year of celebrating the fabric of our culture, the Likhang Habi Market Fair is set to return on October 10 – 12, 2025, this time at the SPACE Events Hall of One Ayala (former site of the Hotel Intercontinental Manila) in Makati City. Moving to a bigger venue, the Fair will be hosting a fast-growing community of close to a hundred artisans and weavers from all over the country, offering unique and innovative products fresh off the loom.

The flagship program of HABI: The Philippine Textile Council, this year’s theme, Sining ng Tela – The Art and Legacy of Philippine Textiles, puts the spotlight on the creative forces behind the weaves that define our identity as Filipinos.

With a growing focus on the educational aspect of their mission, the HABI Council is taking advantage of the larger facility and will be holding a variety of events such as the HABI Lectures – a series of talks and panel discussions on design, entrepreneurship, and building a Filipino brand. There will also be presentations to highlight the rich cultures that produce the intricate weaves, screenings of the various documentaries that the council has created, and exhibitions of the entries to the 8th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and the 4th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition, among others.

Delicate embroidered pieces. Whispers of tradition captured in fine embroidery.

“We want to give voice and value to the hands behind every woven creation,” said HABI Chairman Emeritus Maribel Ongpin. “The artistry of Filipino weavers deserves a national stage.” A staunch supporter of the weaving industry, she established the textile council in 2009 together with HABI President Emeritus Adelaida Lim and other fellow weaving advocates to revive and revitalize what was then a dying craft.

Today, the Likhang Habi Market Fair stands as incontrovertible proof that the weaving industry is back and stronger than ever. This vibrant marketplace offers a unique cultural platform where heritage, artistry and community are seamlessly woven to provide a meaningful market encounter. More than just a venue to buy and sell, it provides the artisans and weavers the opportunity to meet the people who actually use their products, understand their needs and improve what they can offer in the future. In turn, buyers and designers are introduced to the communities that produce the weaves, learn about the meanings behind the designs, and use the fabrics in ways that honors the culture that created it.

Playful beaded handbag at the HABI fair. A joyful piece where craftsmanship meets creativity.

The three-day fair brings together the different stakeholders under one roof – weavers, designers, entrepreneurs, suppliers, distributors and buyers – where connections are made and relationships are fostered to support an industry that is engaged and sustainable.

 Mia Villanueva, HABI President adds: “Because we are in a new venue, we want our visitors to have a richer experience this year. Guests can expect a full spectrum of products using a wide range of indigenous weaves including handwoven textiles, garments, accessories, homeware, jewelry, and curated crafts. They can take time off from shopping by learning something new and interesting from the HABI lecture

series, or sample a variety of regional delicacies from culinary artisans such as Chef Sau Del Rosario at the lounge and dining area .”

More than just a marketplace, Likhang Habi Market Fair promises to weave opportunities for growth, celebrate our identity, and strengthen the ties that bind us to our heritage. For more information, visit the HABI: The Philippine Textile Council website at www.habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com

Additional inquiries may be directed through HABI’s social media accounts
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/HABICouncil OR
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/habicouncil/

#HABI #HABIMarketFair #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SMHCC’s Convention Arm Unveils Culinaire 2025: A Bold Fusion of Flavor, Art, and Inspiration at SMX Manila

SMX Convention Center Manila transformed into a vibrant canvas of taste, technology, and art as it staged Culinaire 2025: Canvas Reimagined, reaffirming its position as the country’s premier MICE venue and a leading force in the Philippine events industry.

Held at the expansive Halls 1 to 3, Culinaire 2025 elevated the traditional showcase into a multisensory spectacle—merging culinary artistry with immersive event technology. More than just a tasting event, it served as a bold statement of SMX’s commitment to creativity, collaboration, and the evolving future of MICE.

SMX Manila transforms into a living gallery of flavors with stunning collaborations with partner caterers and local visual artists at Culinaire 2025.

Anchored on the theme Canvas Reimagined, this year’s edition redefined the event experience by engaging all five senses. Guests explored a smart registration system integrated with real-time voting, AI chat terminals for on-demand event information, and an AI-powered co-host who joined RJ Ledesma on stage. These innovations, paired with each caterer’s curated three-course menu, were thoughtfully designed to inspire interaction, spark creativity, and raise the bar for event personalization.

A celebratory toast with our esteemed executives, partners, and sponsors—championing the success of Culinaire 2025 at SMX Manila.

At the heart of the evening was a three-course culinary experience inspired by contemporary art and rooted in Filipino heritage. SMX’s partner caterers, in collaboration with acclaimed local artists, unveiled imaginative dishes that blurred the lines between fine dining and visual storytelling. Each partnership offered a unique fusion of food and creative expression:

  • Bizu Catering x Ycoy Sitchon– Elegant compositions of emotion and beauty
  • Conrad Manila x Mark Justiniani– Depth and imagination on a plate
  • Hizon’s Catering x Patrick Pura– Celebrations of life’s richness
  • Juan Carlo the Caterer x Katrina Cuenca– Pride in culture and Filipino identity
  • Kitchen City x Mylene Quito– A shared language of creativity
  • M Catering x Jaime Raphael Atienza– A harmony of complexity and grace
  • Richgold Weddings x Samuel Penaso – Sustainable cuisine with bold strokes
  • The Creamery Catering x JP Pining– Storytelling through shared local narratives
  • TJIOE the Caterer x Emmanuel Miranda– Modern takes on oriental culinary heritage
  • Via Mare x Vanessa Bautista– Nostalgia served with heart and heritage

These collaborations competed in the Culinary Awards, judged by a panel of renowned chefs and event professionals, alongside the People’s Choice Awards, which reflected the voice of the guests.

Culinary creativity extended beyond the plate. SMX’s partner mobile bars brought flair to the Best Cocktail and Mocktail Competition. Event Shaker Mobile Bar, together with Tinta Buscalan and Pasa Kalye Artists, delivered a vibrant fusion of street art and mixology. Meanwhile, GQ Mobile Bar, in collaboration with artists Elwah Gonzales, Pancho Alvarez, and Carlo De Laza, impressed with bold, inventive drinks and immersive presentation.

“Culinaire 2025: Canvas Reimagined is more than just a showcase of culinary mastery—it’s a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and innovation in the events industry. Each plate, each space, each interaction is thoughtfully designed to spark the senses, and reimagine what events can be” said Michael Albaña, Vice President and General Manager of SMX Convention Center. “This also marks our return to a much bigger canvas—quite literally. With the expansion of our event spaces and a growing portfolio of eight SMX branches nationwide, including new venues rising in Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa, Sto. Tomas, Cebu, and right here in Pasay—we’re unlocking more opportunities to bring Meetings, Conventions, Exhibitions, and milestone events to more destinations across the country. At SMX, we believe events aren’t just about filling a space, but transforming it.”

As the largest privately-owned convention center network in the Philippines, SMX continues to lead the industry with scale, vision, and innovation. With its expanding footprint and trusted network of industry partners, SMX delivers high-impact event experiences that shape the future of MICE in the country.

Featured photo:

Culinaire 2025 brought together culinary excellence and industry leadership, graced with VIPs taking center stage, L-R: Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation officer, Ms. Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Department of Tourism Secretary, Ms. Christina Garcia Frasco, Pasay City Mayor, Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, SMX Convention Center Vice President-General Manager, Mr. Michael Jaey Albaña.

#SMXCulinaire2025 #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Okada Manila Unveils WanderMart: A Landmark Travel & Lifestyle Expo with Over 100 Brands

The six-time Forbes 5-star integrated resort Okada Manila unveils its inaugural WanderMart: Travel & Lifestyle Expo, a first-of-its-kind travel and lifestyle event happening from August 15 to 17, 2025 at the Crystal Pavilion.

Held in partnership with Silk Events Management and supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), WanderMart will host 97 exhibitors spread across 130 booths, representing more than 100 of today’s most exciting travel and lifestyle brands. From airlines and cruise lines to luxury resorts, local tourism boards, travel agencies, banks, golf clubs, and curated retail labels, WanderMart brings them all together in one vibrant, immersive venue.

Department of Tourism Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina Frasco is slated to grace the opening ceremony with her presence, underscoring the strong support of the national government in promoting domestic travel and tourism.

This milestone event marks Okada Manila as the first integrated resort in the country to host a full-scale travel and lifestyle fair, setting a new benchmark in the industry. With its world-class facilities and central location, the resort offers the ideal venue for an experience that blends exclusive travel offers, curated shopping, and engaging brand activations.

The six time Forbes 5 star integrated resort Okada Manila unveils its inaugural WanderMart Travel and Lifestyle Expo.

Guests can explore ready-to-book vacation packages, limited-edition products, on-the-spot deals, and exciting giveaways. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or your dream adventure, WanderMart is the perfect place to start.

Admission is free, and pre-registration is now open. The first 300 pre-registered attendees will gain special access to Okada Manila’s Coral Lounge, where they’ll enjoy a complimentary drink and a surprise gift. Reward Circle members are in for an added bonus, with an exclusive US $100 discount on select travel packages at the Bon Voyage Travel and Tours booth. Attendees are also entitled to join the raffle with no purchase requirement. Major prizes include roundtrip ticket to South Korea and an overnight stay at the Sky Villa.

As a unique fusion of travel fair and lifestyle expo, WanderMart is designed to deliver an extraordinary experience with immersive booths, and exciting surprises throughout the spacious, air-conditioned Okada Manila Crystal Pavilion.

Lock in your spot now to score early access, VIP perks, and the hottest travel deals of the season. Full event details and registration at https://okadamanila.com/deals/wandermart/

#WanderMart #OkadaManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Okada Manila Celebrates Five Years of Music, Freedom, and Pinoy Pride at Malaya Music Fest 2025

This June 14 and 15, the spirit of freedom and Filipino pride takes center stage for an exhilarating 6-hour showcase of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) as Malaya Music Fest 2025 returns to Okada Manila for its fifth and most electrifying edition yet. The two-day OPM celebration will be held at the iconic Cove Manila, the world-class indoor beach club and event venue at the heart of the integrated resort.

Now in its fifth year, Malaya Music Fest has grown into a flagship celebration of Pinoy artistry—bringing together thousands of fans, top-tier performers, and the unmatched atmosphere of Cove Manila. Made possible by Coca-Cola Philippines, San Miguel Beer, and Quantum – with Rakuten Viber and Radyo5 TrueFM as official media partners – this year’s festival pulls out all the stops with a high-octane artist lineup guaranteed to set the stage on fire.

Malaya Music Fest

Two Nights. One Stage. All-Out OPM.

On June 14, OPM icon Ely Buendia headlines a 90-minute rock-charged night alongside Mayonnaise, I Belong to the Zoo, and the rising indie favorites Amiel Sol and The Vowels They Orbit. The night kicks off with beats by DJ Phillip Japor.

Then on June 15, get ready for pure adrenaline-pumping experience as Kamikazee takes the stage for another electrifying 90-minute set performance joined by a powerhouse lineup Sandwich, Silent Sanctuary, Earl Agustin, Hey June!, and party vibes from DJ Lovezy.

Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the sing-alongs, or the next big OPM sound, this year’s Malaya Music Fest is your front-row ticket to an unforgettable musical escape.

Tickets and Reservations

Tickets start at PHP 2,000 and are available through SM Tickets, TicketWorld, and Ticket2Me. For complete ticketing details, visit okdmnl.ph/Malaya2025. Guests may also contact Okada Manila directly for assistance and reservations via phone at +632 8555 5799 or email at RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com.

Doors open at 4 PM. This event is for 18 years old and above.

Let your voice rise, your heart roar, and your soul dance—Malaya Music Fest 2025 is calling.

#MalayaMusicFest #OkadaManila #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is weaving the future

The 14th Likhang Habi Market Fair gathers the country’s best weavers and artisans, bringing traditions to the next generation.

 

HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is gearing up for this year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair, happening at the Glorietta Activity Center from October 18 to 20, 2024.

This is the 14th time HABI is organizing the event, as part of its mission to preserve, promote, and enhance Philippine textiles through education, communication, and research, using public and private resources.

HABI was established in 2009. “We started it because we realized that there was no textile society in the Philippines,” said HABI founder and chairman emeritus Maria Isabel “Maribel” Ongpin. “The preservation, development and modernization of our Philippine textiles, which are quite varied, quite unique and very colorful, from all over the archipelago.”

HABI organizers and exhibitors during the media launch at Discovery Primea Hotel in Makati.

Likhang Habi Market Fair was their first project and it has grown so much over the years—from featuring 12 vendors to over a hundred in its recent editions. This year’s fair gathers weavers, artisans, designers and brands from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao—Cordillera, Zamboanga, Ilocos, Socksargen, Negros, Bangsamoro and more.

HABI secretary Rambie Katrina Lim said, “We realized that many of the weavers and crafters are actually quite isolated, so they need a platform to grow and show their product and tell their story. The market fair is a chance for them to interact with a bigger market.”

There are many Likhang Habi Market Fair success stories—artisans who grow from the grassroots to greatness. The passionate women of HABI find joy in witnessing that growth.

“We have a lot of examples of that, like Carlo Eliserio and Raquel Eliserio. Now he’s being invited to and attending international conventions and fairs as well. And he also has a place in a department store now, in Rustan’s. There’s a progression. We really invest and watch our vendors grow,” said HABI president Mia Villanueva, who started her relationship with HABI as a vendor—her bags and accessories brand MCV Designs participates in Likhang Habi Market Fair.

Adelaida Lim, HABI president emeritus said, “We have seen many weavers develop into competent entrepreneurs while improving their craft skills.”

But it’s just one part of what they do.

They’ve published four books on Philippine fabrics and produced three documentaries. They hold the annual Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving; and the Eloisa Hizon-Gomez Abaca Weaving competitions. They teach and give lectures, connect and collaborate with other organizations here and abroad, and educate about and advocate for Philippine textiles and the people behind them.

The people of HABI “envision a strong Philippine Textile Culture that is vibrant, diverse and very much a part of our modern present” and their work has helped turn that vision into reality.

Thanks to HABI’s efforts, traditional textiles are no longer viewed as just material for native costumes, they’ve become part of daily life, “as contemporary attire with a relevant place in current lifestyles,”  Adelaida said.

Another indicator of their success is the growing interest in weaving and Philippine textiles among young people. For a long time, there was concern that weaving was a dying art, that the next generation wasn’t interested in continuing what those before them had started.

One young weaver, LoveLove Monon, granddaughter of Manlilikha ng Bayan Salinta Monon, is featured in HABI’s “Threaded Traditions” documentary “Memoirs of a Textile: Inabal of the Bagobo-Tagabawa.”

Wanting to push for innovation, HABI also decided to create a category in their Piña Weaving Competition for weavers under 30 years old. The year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair theme, “Earth To Loom: Celebrating Natural Dyes in Philippine Textiles,” is something that also speaks to the younger generation, a generation known for their concern about climate change and passion for sustainability.

Maybe it’s the new generation who will make a difference. And HABI is here to help them make it happen.

Visit www.habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com and find HABI: The Philippine Textile Council on Facebook and Instagram (@HABICouncil).

#LikhangHabiMarketFair #HABI #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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San Beda University, Xavier University Students Win Top Prize at PMA’s 32nd Agora Youth Awards

Young marketing brilliance emerged at the 32nd Agora Youth Awards as the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), in cooperation with the Philippine Junior Marketing Association (PJMA), recognized the country’s top marketing students at its recently concluded awarding ceremony on July 31, 2024, at The Westin Manila, Ortigas, Pasig City.

Launched in 1991, the Agora Youth Awards is an annual competition recognizing excellence in academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and performance in the marketing plan competition. The awards include categories for individual students and Junior Marketing Associations (JMA) or the school-based marketing organizations.

Mark Cruz from San Beda University was named class valedictorian and Best Marketing Student of the Year. The other students who ranked in the top ten for the individual category are Prince Olie Cacho from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Mike Ivan Siga from Mindanao State University, Kristalyn Agustin from Central Luzon State University, Franco Gabriele Delatina from Our Lady of Fatima University, Kaye Liwag from Batangas State University, Raymart Mariano Jr. and Maica Stephamae Orenda from Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Rayan Camid from Xavier University, and Xyrill Baltazar from National University Fairview.

For the JMA category, Xavier University Junior Marketing Association clinched first place, followed by San Beda University and Silliman University.

PMA President Kathy Mercado highlighted the significance of this year’s awards, stating, “As we celebrate our 70th anniversary with the theme ‘SustAInability Marketing,’ we also recognize the creativity, dedication, and achievement of our young marketing triumphant leaders. Our awardees have not only excelled in their fields but have also embraced the values of innovation and sustainability, setting new standards of excellence.”

PMA Board

Leah Marie Ayeng, PMA Director of Youth and Academe, emphasized the organization’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of marketing professionals. “The Agora Youth Awards looks at community impact beyond competence as it is the key to developing ‘changemakers’. PMA is carrying out the mission to be an enabler of learning and development in the marketing realm, promoting excellence in marketing education and continuing the 70 years of legacy of bringing marketing brilliance.”

This year, students were challenged to integrate sustainability and AI in their marketing plans. Individual contestants localized marketing strategies for existing international products,  highlighting the values that are important to Philippine culture, while school-based organizations for the JMA category developed marketing plans to help SMEs scale globally in terms of marketing.

The panel of distinguished judges for the finals was composed of industry experts and thought leaders from various sectors. The judges for the individual category were Archie Carrasco, Chairman & CEO of AGC Power Holdings, Inc.; Faye Arellano-Martinez, CPM, Co-founder & CEO of AQAdvertising Inc.; Joselito Ortega, Chairman & CEO of Havas Ortega and former PMA President; Albet Buddahim, CPM, VP and Chief Marketing Officer of Primer Group of Companies; Patricia Poco-Palacios, President & COO of Global Dominion Financing, Inc.; and Jill Christine Pena, Brand Marketing Director of AC Mobility.

For the JMA category, the judges were Therese Castrojas-Galang, Chief Marketing Officer of Airspeed; Bryan Lato, CPM ASIA, Managing Director of 360Next Creative Solutions/PMA IPP; Jenny Wieneke, CFO & Marketing Director of Tokyo Tempura; Jorge Noel Wieneke, Co-Founder of Potato Corner and Agora Awardee Entrepreneurship Awardee; Paul Anthony De Guzman, Programs Development Manager of Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship – GoNegosyo; and Ana Joy Rocero, CEO & Co-Founder of UNICON DMS.

The event also featured a keynote speech from Rosemarie Rafael, Chairperson and President of AIC Group of Companies Holding Corporation, and an inspirational talk from Archie Carrasco, Chairman and CEO of AGC Power Holdings Corp. Carrasco shared his journey from being a past awardee to a leader in the industry, encouraging the young marketers to pursue their dreams with determination.

The 32nd Agora Youth Awards was co-presented by AGC Power Holdings Corp, with venue partners The Westin Manila and Blogapalooza. Case sponsors included Airspeed, AQAdvertising, Inc., and Tolak Angin. Prestige Quality Paper Products Corp. served as the sustainability partner and major sponsor, alongside Primer Group of Companies, Hydro Flask, and Jansport.

#AgoraYouthAwards #PMA #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair brings the best of the regions to Metro Manila

The much-awaited 2024 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair (NTF) is happening from August 21 to 25, at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 of SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The NTF is a flagship initiative organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO). It aims to promote the efficient marketing of local products and provide a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their unique and innovative products to a wider audience. Building on the success of the 2023 Hybrid National Trade Fair, which generated Php 42.06-million in sales and attracted over 23,000 visitors, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better.

The 2024 NTF will highlight a diverse range of artisanal and non-food products crafted from the country’s sustainable raw materials, such as bamboo, natural fibers, and native grass. It will also feature unique food items, Halal products, coconut-based innovations for medical use and personal care, novelty items, holiday decor, home furnishings, and many more.

In addition, the NTF will facilitate business matching and networking activities between MSMEs and institutional buyers, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth. The event will include the Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, the Coconut Philippines Pavilion, the KAPEtirya Coffee Pavilion, the RAPID Growth Project, and the Innovation and Services Cluster for government and private sector partners.

“The DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair is a testament to our commitment to supporting the growth and development of MSMEs in the Philippines,” said DTI Acting Secretary Cristina A.Roque.  “We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the ingenuity and creativity of our local entrepreneurs and discover the best of what the Philippines has to offer.”

The NTF is open to the public and admission is free. For more information, please follow the social media pages @BDTP on Facebook, @DTI_BDTP on X, and @dti.bdtp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can join future DTI-BMDPO fairs through their local DTI Office. They may also reach out to the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP by sending an email to Director Marievic Bonoan at BDTP@dti.gov.ph.

The BMDPO is mandated to promote the efficient marketing of local products through various programs and strategies. It is committed to supporting the growth and development of MSMEs in the Philippines and helping them reach their full potential.

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