2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress Highlights Success Stories, Innovation, and Collaboration for Philippine Coffee

 

The Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. (PCBI) held the 2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress on October 15–16, 2026, bringing together coffee farmers, entrepreneurs, researchers, government representatives, and industry professionals to explore ways to build a stronger, more sustainable Philippine coffee industry.

With the theme “Cultivating Tomorrow’s Cup: Working Towards a Sustainable Future for Philippine Coffee,” the two-day event highlighted inspiring success stories, sustainable agricultural practices, innovative uses for coffee by-products, and opportunities for education and industry development.

The opening day, held at the Makati Sports Club, featured a prerecorded keynote message from Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, who expressed his support for Philippine agriculture, the coffee industry, and farming communities.

Learning from Regional Success and Empowering Communities

Among the Congress's featured international speakers was Adam Esham, Co-Owner of House of Kendal in Malaysia, who shared his family's coffee journey and the development of their coffee business. His presentation offered a regional perspective on how coffee heritage, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to quality can contribute to building a successful and sustainable coffee enterprise. 

The IP Coffee Community panel brought together Gilbert Baltazar of DA-4K, Benjamin David Abadiano of the PAMULAAN Center for Indigenous Peoples Education, and Danilo D. Crobalde of LANDBANK to discuss opportunities for Indigenous coffee communities through education, financing, enterprise development, and market access.

Meanwhile, Gio Paolo Espital of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement and Nicolo Aberasturi of Banhaw Agriculture explored alternatives to commercial fertilizers, highlighting organic and regenerative approaches to improving soil health and reducing farming costs.

Celebrating Coffee Success Stories

The Success Stories in Production panel featured coffee growers sharing their personal journeys, challenges, and achievements in developing successful farms and enterprises.

Panelists included Democrito “Aljun” Diamante, former Mayor of Tuburan, Cebu, who developed Tuburan Coffee; Leovino “Oben” Anacay, a coffee farmer from Amadeo, Cavite; Ylaine Giangan of Kuvi Integrated Farm; and Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman of Isabela City, Basilan. Their experiences demonstrated how perseverance, innovation, and community collaboration can transform coffee farming into a sustainable livelihood.

The Women in Coffee panel also highlighted success stories from different areas of the industry. Young coffee professionals Angelic Gail Perez and Angelin Gaby Perez, both 18, shared their achievements in coffee quality assessment, roasting, competitions, and mentoring. Maria Teofanie Tutanes, a nurse and entrepreneur behind Mnemo Coffee, brought insights from farming, processing, manufacturing, and marketing, while Noemi Dado of Agnep Heritage Farms in Benguet shared her family's journey of reviving a heritage coffee farm and producing high-quality, traceable coffee.

Their stories demonstrated the important contributions of women not only in coffee production but also in entrepreneurship, education, quality evaluation, and industry leadership.

Turning Coffee Waste into Opportunity

Sustainability and innovation were also central to the Congress.

Richard Khoo, CEO of Lastic Singapore, discussed opportunities within the circular coffee economy, while Stu Balmaceda, Founder of SIDE B Upcycling, showcased ways to transform coffee waste into useful products.

PCBI Director Jose “Jo” Mamar and Engr. Allan Bondad of DOST-FPRDI presented coffee briquettes, an alternative solid fuel produced by compressing processed coffee waste into compact blocks that can be used as a source of heat. Their presentations highlighted the potential of turning agricultural waste into a useful energy resource.

Michelle Fernandez of GCash also discussed the partnership between PCBI and GForest in supporting the regeneration of local coffee communities.

Expanding Opportunities Through Coffee Education

The Congress emphasized the importance of education and skills development in strengthening the industry.

Robert Francisco, PCBI Technical Director and Lead Instructor of UCC Coffee Academy, discussed career opportunities within the coffee sector, highlighting how professional training and specialized skills can open doors beyond traditional coffee farming.

Brendan Rosen, Head Trainer of Naturland Philippines, introduced the Naturland Academy and its role in building skills for organic coffee production, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices and farmer education.

Dave Lim, Technical Director of the ASEAN Coffee Institute, shared the institute's education philosophy based on the value of coffee, highlighting the importance of structured learning and professional development across the coffee industry.

The Congress also recognized Emmanuel “Manny” Torrejon, PCBI Director and Business Development Director of UCC Ueshima Coffee Philippines Inc., as the recipient of the 3rd Coffee Cup of Distinction Award for his longstanding contributions to Philippine coffee.

Experiencing Coffee Beyond the Conference

On October 16, participants joined experiential activities that brought the first day's discussions into practice.

At Commune Cafe + Bar in Makati City, a hands-on brewing workshop facilitated by Robert Francisco explored the science behind hand-pour coffee preparation. Participants learned how principles of physics and chemistry influence coffee extraction, flavor, and brewing techniques, helping them develop their own preferred brewing style.

A guided coffee crawl around Legazpi Village, Makati City, took participants to five specialty coffee establishments: Primal Brew Coffee + Roastery, Yardstick, Mechanika Coffee, A Cup for Lola, and The Curator Coffee & Cocktails. The activity provided an opportunity to experience different coffee offerings while discovering Makati's vibrant specialty coffee scene.

Meanwhile, participants in the coffee farm tour visited the PCBI Coffee Technology Center in Amadeo, Cavite, where they learned about coffee cultivation, farm management, and sustainable agricultural practices. The visit also included a special demonstration on coffee briquettes.

Working Towards a Sustainable Coffee Future

Through its presentations, success stories, and hands-on activities, the Congress reinforced the importance of collaboration among farmers, businesses, government institutions, researchers, and coffee professionals in building a more resilient and inclusive Philippine coffee industry.

The event was made possible through the support of GCash (Platinum Sponsor); Alaska Professional and LANDBANK (Silver Sponsors); UCC Philippines, Allegro Beverage Corporation, Peace and Equity Foundation, Enviro Scope, and Mayora (Bronze Sponsors); and Curve Coffee Collaborators (Patron Sponsor).

Media partners: Malaya Business Insight, BusinessMirror, and Manila Standard.

For more information about the Philippine Coffee Board, Inc., visit www.philcoffeeboard.com.

UMak President appointed Chairman of the World University Network of Innovators (WUNI) at 2026 WURI Global Conference in Germany

Demonstrating the University of Makati’s (UMak) expanding global presence and leadership in higher education, University President Elyxzur Ramos and Center for Quality Management and Development (CQMD) Director Henry Magat secured major international appointments during the 2026 World University Association for Innovation (WURI) Global Conference, held on recently at the Deggendorf Institute of Technology in Germany.

President Elyxzur Ramos was reelected as Chairman of the World University Network of Innovators (WUNI) for Presidents. In addition, Dr. Ramos was invited to join the pioneer team of accreditation inspectors for university presidents under the WURI system, establishing a significant benchmark for executive academic leadership.

Concurrently, CQMD Director Henry Magat achieved a triple distinction on the international stage. Magat was reelected Chairman of WUNI for Experts for his second consecutive term, named a WURI Accreditation Validator, and reappointed as a Certified WURI Mentor.

The WURI Global Conference brings together university presidents, global experts, researchers, and academic leaders to share cutting-forward practices and foster international collaboration. The continued reelection and appointments of UMak’s top leadership highlight the institution’s commitment to quality assurance, institutional innovation, and global partnership.

"Their continued leadership on the global stage reflects UMak's unwavering commitment to innovation, quality assurance, and meaningful collaboration in higher education," the university stated, reinforcing its thrust to inspire students and faculty to rise, shine, and succeed anywhere in the world.

About the University of Makati:

The University of Makati (UMak) is a premier local government-funded university in Makati City, Philippines, dedicated to providing quality, innovative, and industry-aligned higher education. Through continuous engagement with global standards and international networks, UMak prepares its academic community to excel in an evolving global landscape.

HONOR 600S Officially Goes on Sale Nationwide as First-Ever Alpha Store Opens at SM MegamallGlobal AI device provider HONOR Philippines officially marks the first-day sale of the HONOR 600S, making the latest addition to the HONOR 600 Series available to more Filipino consumers through authorized HONOR stores, partner dealers, and official online channels nationwide. The milestone also coincides with the opening of the new HONOR Alpha Store at SM Megamall Cyberzone, which features a service center to provide customers with added convenience and support. Designed for users who balance work, entertainment, and content creation, the HONOR 600S brings together long-lasting battery life, durable protection, and AI-powered features in one smartphone. "We're excited to bring the HONOR 600S to more Filipino consumers as it officially becomes available nationwide," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. "With its powerful battery, durable design, and intelligent features, the HONOR 600S is designed to keep up with the different ways people use their smartphones, from staying connected and getting work done to creating content and enjoying entertainment." The HONOR 600S features an 8,100mAh battery with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, along with IP68, IP69, and IP69K water and dust resistance. Its Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture has earned the SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop and Crush Resistance, including a 5-Star All-Round Drop Resistance rating and tested drop protection of up to 2.5 meters under controlled laboratory conditions. For content creation, the smartphone features a dedicated AI Button and HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, allowing users to transform still images into dynamic video content. It is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 Mobile Platform and features a 6.87-inch 120Hz display, 400% Volume Dual Speakers, and a 50MP main camera. The HONOR 600S comes in Velvet Black, Desert Gold, and Misty Purple. The 8GB + 256GB is available for only PHP 19,999 until October 31, 2026, with a free HONOR Bluetooth Speaker II for those who made the pre-order and an HONOR Watch 2i for those who made the first-day purchases. The 6GB + 128GB variant is available online exclusively for PHP 18,999 with a free HONOR Watch 2i. Customers can also enjoy online exclusive offers on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop subject to applicable platform promotions and terms. Last Chance to Register for the PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo Customers who pre-ordered or purchased the HONOR 600S can still join the HONOR 600S PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo, as HONOR Philippines has extended the registration deadline to October 18, 2026, giving eligible customers more time to register for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, subject to the official promo mechanics. For the full promo mechanics and registration details, visit www.honorphrafflepromo.com. For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series ### About HONOR HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables, and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world.

SM Megamall's Assistant Mall Manager Isabella Manjon with HONOR Philippines' Go-To-Market Director Steven Yan and Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Global AI device provider HONOR Philippines officially marks the first-day sale of the HONOR 600S, making the latest addition to the HONOR 600 Series available to more Filipino consumers through authorized HONOR stores, partner dealers, and official online channels nationwide. The milestone also coincides with the opening of the new HONOR Alpha Store at SM Megamall Cyberzone, which features a service center to provide customers with added convenience and support.

Designed for users who balance work, entertainment, and content creation, the HONOR 600S brings together long-lasting battery life, durable protection, and AI-powered features in one smartphone.

"We're excited to bring the HONOR 600S to more Filipino consumers as it officially becomes available nationwide," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. "With its powerful battery, durable design, and intelligent features, the HONOR 600S is designed to keep up with the different ways people use their smartphones, from staying connected and getting work done to creating content and enjoying entertainment."

  

The HONOR 600S features an 8,100mAh battery with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, along with IP68, IP69, and IP69K water and dust resistance. Its Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture has earned the SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop and Crush Resistance, including a 5-Star All-Round Drop Resistance rating and tested drop protection of up to 2.5 meters under controlled laboratory conditions.

 

For content creation, the smartphone features a dedicated AI Button and HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, allowing users to transform still images into dynamic video content. It is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 Mobile Platform and features a 6.87-inch 120Hz display, 400% Volume Dual Speakers, and a 50MP main camera.

The HONOR 600S comes in Velvet Black, Desert Gold, and Misty Purple. The 8GB + 256GB is available for only PHP 19,999 until October 31, 2026, with a free HONOR Bluetooth Speaker II for those who made the pre-order and an HONOR Watch 2i for those who made the first-day purchases. The 6GB + 128GB variant is available online exclusively for PHP 18,999 with a free HONOR Watch 2i. Customers can also enjoy online exclusive offers on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop subject to applicable platform promotions and terms.

Last Chance to Register for the PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo

Customers who pre-ordered or purchased the HONOR 600S can still join the HONOR 600S PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo, as HONOR Philippines has extended the registration deadline to October 18, 2026, giving eligible customers more time to register for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, subject to the official promo mechanics. 

For the full promo mechanics and registration details, visit www.honorphrafflepromo.com.

For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series

About HONOR

HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables, and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world.

Annyeongsarap! McDonald’s Turns Up the Heat on K-Inspiration, Launching Its Largest-Ever Korean Flavor Platform Building on the iconic McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration launched in September, McDonald’s Philippines is upping the heat of K-experience for fans and customers with the return of a bigger and better Taste of Korea menu, featuring limited-time Korean-inspired McSpicy, Double Cheeseburger, McShaker Fries and McFloat. Pinoy fans of Korean food and culture can savor and celebrate the Korean flavors they love starting October 9, with the new Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float. Together, they deliver a total Korean flavor experience that is accessible and uniquely McDonald’s: truly Annyeongsarap! “Korean culture continues to unite Pinoys of all ages and groups, especially Korean food and culinary experiences. The buzz we’ve seen around the recent McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, as well as our Taste of Korea and Flavors of Asia menus in 2021 and 2022 show how strong Pinoys’ affinity towards all things-Korean. Now, we’re excited to elevate the heat further on the K-experience with our new Taste of Korea offerings. We invite customers and fans to discover new favorites and enjoy a taste of Korea,” said Karl Christian Chua, McDonald’s Philippines Brand Manager. The Taste of Korea line-up is a complete K-experience that brings together some of the bold, craveable, and distinctly Korean flavors that Filipinos have come to love. From sweet and spicy favorites to smoky, savory, and refreshing tastes, each item is inspired by the richness of Korean food culture, now within reach at McDonald’s. The Yangnyeom twist on both the McSpicy and the Double Cheeseburger delivers a sweet, savory, and bold kick through its creamy and spicy yangnyeom sauce. The Galbi McShaker Fries excites the taste buds with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet Galbi flavor elevating the fan-favorite World Famous Fries. Rounding out the flavor experience is the K-Melon McFloat, a refreshing Sprite McFloat-based dessert drink with the sparkle of sweet melon inspired by the popular South Korean ice cream brand Melona. Completing the K-experience: K-inspired kilig and McDo App deals McDonald’s Philippines’ Taste of Korea experience goes further beyond the K-flavor excitement, as the brand is also premiering “The Plus One,” a new microdrama to deliver K-inspired kilig. Three lifelong friends, Kim, Marco and Dom, have always dreamed of going to Korea. One day, Kim wins a dream trip to the Land of the Morning Calm, but she can only take one of her friends as plus one. Marco and Dom hilariously compete for that coveted spot, but who will she choose? "At McDonald’s, we’re always looking for ways to bring total experiences to our customers beyond exciting flavors. Taste of Korea captures the vibrant flavors that have become so popular among Filipinos, and we’re excited for customers to try this lineup. And with ‘The Plus One,’ we’re elevating the Korean experience further, bridging Filipinos’ strong affinity for Korean entertainment and the growing popularity of microdramas with their love for Korean food," added Chua. McDonald’s Philippines is also making Taste of Korea within reach for its customers, through McDo App exclusive promos of only P199 for a Yangnyeom McSpicy with FREE Large Sprite and only P169 for a Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger also with FREE Large Sprite. Experience the excitement of Korean flavors and go “Annyeongsarap!”. Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float are available for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru, and via delivery with the McDonald’s Delivery App as well as third-party delivery platforms. For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X. # About McDonald’s Philippines McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang - who oversees and sits as chairman for 40 years - founded and brought the first McDonald’s store to the country in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a store network of close to 800 nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of Choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

Building on the iconic McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration launched in September, McDonald’s Philippines is upping the heat of K-experience for fans and customers with the return of a bigger and better Taste of Korea menu, featuring limited-time Korean-inspired McSpicy, Double Cheeseburger, McShaker Fries and McFloat. 

Pinoy fans of Korean food and culture can savor and celebrate the Korean flavors they love starting October 9, with the new Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float. Together, they deliver a total Korean flavor experience that is accessible and uniquely McDonald’s: truly Annyeongsarap!

“Korean culture continues to unite Pinoys of all ages and groups, especially Korean food and culinary experiences. The buzz we’ve seen around the recent McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, as well as our Taste of Korea and Flavors of Asia menus in 2021 and 2022 show how strong Pinoys’ affinity towards all things-Korean. Now, we’re excited to elevate the heat further on the K-experience with our new Taste of Korea offerings. We invite customers and fans to discover new favorites and enjoy a taste of Korea,” said Karl Christian Chua, McDonald’s Philippines Brand Manager.

The Taste of Korea line-up is a complete K-experience that brings together some of the bold, craveable, and distinctly Korean flavors that Filipinos have come to love. From sweet and spicy favorites to smoky, savory, and refreshing tastes, each item is inspired by the richness of Korean food culture, now within reach at McDonald’s.

The Yangnyeom twist on both the McSpicy and the Double Cheeseburger delivers a sweet, savory, and bold kick through its creamy and spicy yangnyeom sauce. The Galbi McShaker Fries excites the taste buds with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet Galbi flavor elevating the fan-favorite World Famous Fries. Rounding out the flavor experience is the K-Melon McFloat, a refreshing Sprite McFloat-based dessert drink with the sparkle of sweet melon inspired by the popular South Korean ice cream brand Melona.

Completing the K-experience: K-inspired kilig and McDo App deals

McDonald’s Philippines’ Taste of Korea experience goes further beyond the K-flavor excitement, as the brand is also premiering “The Plus One,” a new microdrama to deliver K-inspired kilig. Three lifelong friends, Kim, Marco and Dom, have always dreamed of going to Korea. One day, Kim wins a dream trip to the Land of the Morning Calm, but she can only take one of her friends as plus one. Marco and Dom hilariously compete for that coveted spot, but who will she choose?

"At McDonald’s, we’re always looking for ways to bring total experiences to our customers beyond exciting flavors. Taste of Korea captures the vibrant flavors that have become so popular among Filipinos, and we’re excited for customers to try this lineup. And with ‘The Plus One,’ we’re elevating the Korean experience further, bridging Filipinos’ strong affinity for Korean entertainment and the growing popularity of microdramas with their love for Korean food," added Chua.

McDonald’s Philippines is also making Taste of Korea within reach for its customers, through McDo App exclusive promos of only P199 for a Yangnyeom McSpicy with FREE Large Sprite and only P169 for a Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger also with FREE Large Sprite.

Experience the excitement of Korean flavors and go “Annyeongsarap!”. Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float are available for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru, and via delivery with the McDonald’s Delivery App as well as third-party delivery platforms.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang - who oversees and sits as chairman for 40 years - founded and brought the first McDonald’s store to the country in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a store network of close to 800 nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of Choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

What Would You Buy with PHP 1 Million at SM? Pre-Order the HONOR 600S for a Chance to Win!

What would you do with PHP 1 million worth of shopping? HONOR is giving consumers a chance to make it happen with the new HONOR 600S.

 

As part of the HONOR 600S pre-order offer, customers can get a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, adding even more excitement to the launch of HONOR’s latest smartphone.

 

Beyond the exciting prize, the HONOR 600S delivers AI-powered features, 5G connectivity, and long-lasting battery life, making it a compelling choice for consumers looking for an everyday smartphone packed with smart and creative features.

 

The HONOR 600S is now available for pre-order through authorized HONOR stores and online channels nationwide. Don’t miss the chance to get your hands on the new HONOR 600S—and get a shot at a PHP 1 million shopping spree.

Hanabishi Brings Bossing Vic Sotto and Ninong Ry Together in a Special Collab

 

Two of the country’s beloved personalities known for their humor and authenticity have teamed up for a special collaboration with Hanabishi Appliances. 

Comedy legend “Bossing” Vic Sotto recently visited Ninong Ry, who prepared delicious Chinese food using the brand’s various kitchen appliances. The visit can be seen on the food content creator’s popular YouTube channel. As of this writing, the hour-long episode has already garnered more than 4 million views.

“Bossing Vic has been a brand ambassador of Hanabishi for many years already, and we have worked with Ninong Ry countless times. Bringing them together was a dream collaboration for us as we mark our 40th year,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing, Hanabishi Appliances.

Ninong Ry Whips Up a Chinese Feast

Ninong Ry, with his signature wit and humor, prepared Fried Mantou with the help of the Hanabishi Professional Stand Mixer Master Series 5L HPSTMIX-50, and Hanabishi Food Steamer HFS85; Steamed Fish also using the Hanabishi Food Steamer; and his own version of Dong Po Pork using the Hanabishi 18 in 1 Electric Pressure Cooker HDIGPC-18IN1 and Hanabishi Juice Extractor HPJ750SS. He showed how much easier and more convenient it is to prepare these dishes with these appliances as your ka-partner.

Bossing Opens Up About His Beginnings in Rare Interview

Bossing Vic and Ninong Ry enjoyed the food together before settling into a lighthearted interview, where the comedy icon offered a rare glimpse into his personal journey in the entertainment industry. He candidly shared how he entered show business through the music industry before eventually appearing in a gag show with his brothers. He also shared his thoughts on comedy’s evolution, and looked back on the beginnings of Eat Bulaga in 1979. He said that he is looking  forward to its upcoming 50th anniversary.

A Tried and Tested Ka-Partner

“Parang Eat Bulaga ang Hanabishi,” Bossing Vic observed during the interview, drawing parallels between the long-running noontime show and the brand’s longevity and partnership with Filipinos. “For 40 years, subok na ng buong bayan.”

He also shared how people would tell him about the durability of Hanabishi products, of how they have remained reliable for many years.

“As we celebrate our 40th year this year, we thank all the people who have partnered with us like Bossing Vic and Ninong Ry, and everyone who has chosen Hanabishi as their ka-partner in their homes and even their offices. As we look forward to more years in the industry, we will continue to fulfill our promise of providing quality appliances for Filipino families,” Ong-Chua said.

Learn more about Hanabishi by visiting www.myhanabishi.com. 

#

About Hanabishi: 

Sa Bahay at sa Business Mo, Hanabishi!

Hanabishi is a Filipino household name for appliances for 40 years. It is a brand engineered to fit the lifestyle of the Filipino both for homes and businesses.  Hardworking, durable and resilient, are the attributes that personify Hanabishi making it the brand of choice of every Filipino mom and businessman when it comes to value and practicality. Hanabishi is the mark of quality that grows with you through the years.  Built with passion and an impeccable desire to uphold the quality of life in every Filipino home, Hanabishi will remain to be the PRACTICAL choice and KAPARTNER, today and for the many years to come.

For more information about Hanabishi, please visit www.myhanabishi.com/shop and  like them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MyHanabishiAppliances/

Ballet Manila’s Ibong Adarna takes flight anew at the Areté stage in Ateneo

A magical story that generations of Filipinos love and know by heart is once again set to come alive in a completely different and enchanting way.

This October, Ballet Manila brings Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s Ibong Adarna back to the stage, transforming the beloved Filipino tale of an enchanted bird, royal brothers, forbidden love, and a quest for healing into a spectacle of music, movement, and dance.

One of the company’s most beloved and performed productions, Ibong Adarna will be staged at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City on October 9 at 7:30 p.m. and October 10 at 5 p.m.

“Ibong Adarna is one of Ballet Manila’s most requested offsite performances. This year, it already had two shows at Jose Rizal Coliseum in Laguna, and now the production is bound to return to Areté in Ateneo before continuing its way to Iloilo,” shared Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s CEO and Artistic Director.

Ibong Adarna tells the story of a mythical bird whose magical song has the power to heal the sick. When King Fernando of the Kingdom of Berbanya falls ill with an incurable disease, his three sons — Don Pedro, Don Diego, and Don Juan — set out on a quest to find the legendary Adarna and bring it back to save their father. The prince who succeeds in capturing the bird will inherit the throne.

The Areté run will feature a new set of leads from Ballet Manila’s powerhouse lineup. Performing as Ibong Adarna is Shaira Comeros, alongside Mark Sumaylo as Don Pedro, Rafael Perez as Don Juan, and Romeo Peralta as Don Diego. The alternate cast is led by Jessica Pearl Dames as Ibong Adarna, with Juan Angelo De Leon as Don Juan, Ralp John Balagot as Don Pedro, and Sean Pelegrin as Don Diego.

Ibong Adarna is fast becoming a Filipino ballet classic. Although Ballet Manila has staged the production numerous times in various venues, each re-staging brings something new, shaped in large part by its evolving cast of dancers.

“Every time we bring Ibong Adarna to a new audience, we discover something new about the story and the characters. That is what makes it special. It remains familiar to many Filipinos, but ballet allows us to experience the story in a different way,” Macuja Elizalde said.

Staging Ibong Adarna at the Areté is part of Ballet Manila’s broader mission of bringing people to ballet and ballet to the people. By taking the production beyond the traditional theater setting and into communities or cities, the company opens more opportunities for audiences to experience live ballet and discover this art form through stories already part of Filipino culture.

For those who may have encountered the classic tale in school, books, or childhood, Ballet Manila offers an exciting way to see the story as it combines a well-loved narrative with music, movement, complex characters, and the artistry of its dancers.

Don’t miss Ibong Adarna at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University on October 9 and 10 only. For tickets, visit Ticketworld at www.premier.ticketworld.com.ph. Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting www.balletmanila.com.ph.