Sure Lasap Flavors and Kitchen Camaraderie Take Center Stage at Knorr Professional’s Stir-Fry Fest

Sure Lasap Flavors and Kitchen Camaraderie Take Center Stage at Knorr Professional’s Stir-Fry Fest

Friday, June 27, 2025

Where bold flavors meet Filipino culinary pride — Knorr Professional teams up with star chefs to bring the heat with Team Sure Lasap.

Something delicious was cooking in the heart of the metro as Knorr Professional turned up the heat with its highly anticipated Stir-Fry Fest, held at Whitespace Manila. But this wasn’t just any culinary event — it was an immersive celebration of flavor, creativity, and the spirit of Filipino cooking, all made even better with the official introduction of Team Sure Lasap.

Composed of some of the country’s most beloved culinary figures — Ninong Ry, Chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco, Chef JR Royol, Chef Boy Logro, Chef Pipo Aluning, and Chef Ken Cacho — Team Sure Lasap brought their unique personalities and kitchen skills to the forefront, creating an unforgettable experience for chefs, food entrepreneurs, and culinary enthusiasts.

Stir-Fry With a Twist: Flavor Meets Innovation

Guests were treated to an energetic, hands-on cooking experience with live demos, tastings, and one-on-one interactions with the chefs. The stars of the show? The bold, aromatic stir-fry dishes made with Knorr Professional Sure Lasap — an all-in-one seasoning powder developed specifically for foodservice kitchens.

Infused with real garlic and chicken, Knorr Sure Lasap was designed to deliver consistent, crave-worthy flavor across a wide range of dishes — from Pancit Guisado to Fried Rice and everything in between. It’s a game-changer for busy kitchens aiming to elevate taste without complicating workflow.

“Many chefs rely on the same flavor bases, but that can limit innovation,” shared Chef Ken Cacho during the event. “Sure Lasap makes it easier to experiment while still achieving that rich, homemade taste.”

A Culinary Playground for Pros

The venue was transformed into a bustling cooking arena, with interactive stations where attendees got their aprons dirty alongside Team Sure Lasap. Each station was a flavor-packed adventure — a true reminder of how cooking, when done right, becomes a joyful, collaborative experience.

For food entrepreneurs and kitchen teams, the event offered more than just inspiration. It introduced a dependable kitchen partner in Knorr Sure Lasap — one that supports creativity, consistency, and speed, all while delivering the taste Filipino diners love.

More Than a Product — It’s a Movement

According to Monica Reyes, Country Marketing Manager of Unilever Food Solutions Philippines, the event was about more than showcasing a new product.

“Knorr Sure Lasap is made for real kitchens. It supports the everyday hustle of foodservice professionals, helping them create flavorful dishes with ease. Through Stir-Fry Fest, we wanted to highlight the passion and diversity of Filipino chefs, brought to life by our amazing Team Sure Lasap.”

The Stir-Fry Fest marks just the beginning of Knorr Professional’s mission to uplift and empower the local foodservice industry. Whether you're a chef, restaurant owner, or home cook looking to level up your menu, Knorr Sure Lasap offers a shortcut to rich, delicious meals that keep customers coming back.

Ready to Stir Things Up in Your Kitchen?

Discover how Knorr Professional can transform your kitchen game. Follow them for recipes, chef stories, and exclusive culinary events at www.ufs.com

and on social media @unileverfoodsolutions_ph and Unilever Food Solutions Philippines on Facebook

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Drew and Iya Arellano with Their Kids Join BPI AIA as New Brand Ambassadors for Holistic Health

Drew and Iya Arellano with Their Kids Join BPI AIA as New Brand Ambassadors for Holistic Health

The Arellanos champion family wellness and smart financial habits in BPI AIA’s new "Rethink Healthy" campaign.

Celebrity couple Drew Arellano and Iya Villania, together with their five children, are now the official brand ambassadors of BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (BPI AIA). Their partnership marks the launch of the company’s new “Rethink Healthy” campaign—a movement designed to inspire Filipino families to embrace a more holistic, practical, and sustainable approach to health and well-being.

Well-known for their active lifestyle, strong family values, and down-to-earth parenting, the Arellanos embody what it truly means to live a healthy, balanced life—physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.

“BPI AIA is proud to welcome the Arellano family to help us inspire more Filipinos to ‘Rethink Healthy’ not just as a goal, but as a way of life,” says Karen Custodia, CEO of BPI AIA.

A New Definition of Healthy: Mind, Body, and Financial Peace of Mind

While many Filipinos still view "being healthy" as merely physical fitness, the 2025 AIA Philippines “Rethink Healthy” Study reveals a deeper picture:

• 52% of Filipinos associate health with physical well-being
• 30% consider mental health essential
• 12% cite financial health
• 59% say financial stress is their biggest worry

With these findings in mind, BPI AIA’s campaign highlights the importance of holistic health—encouraging Filipino families to take small, intentional steps toward a more balanced lifestyle.

“Health isn’t just about workouts or diet plans. It’s about peace of mind, security, and the little daily choices that help us feel whole,” shares Iya.

The Arellanos: Leading by Example in Everyday Wellness

From early morning workouts to budget planning and playful outdoor routines with the kids, the Arellanos demonstrate how simple, consistent habits can lead to long-term well-being.

“For us, healthy means balance—physically, emotionally, and financially,” says Drew. “Whether it’s eating nutritious meals or securing our kids’ future with insurance, it’s about making mindful choices every day.”

How the Arellanos "Rethink Healthy":

Physical Health: Fun family games, bike rides, home workouts

Mental Wellness: Quiet moments, prayer, screen-free bonding

Financial Fitness: Budgeting, savings, and life insurance with BPI AIA

Family Routines: Cooking together, bedtime routines, digital discipline

“Wellness isn’t complicated—it’s about finding what works for your family,” Drew adds.

Empowering Filipino Families to Take Charge of Their Health

With five children and busy schedules, Drew and Iya understand the daily challenges Filipino parents face. That’s why their partnership with BPI AIA is rooted in real-life solutions, not perfection.

“We want to give our kids the best future,” says Iya. “That includes teaching them about money, prioritizing health, and protecting their dreams through smart planning.”

Together with BPI AIA, the Arellanos aim to make holistic health more relatable and achievable—whether it's drinking more water, saving for emergencies, or simply spending quality time as a family.

Start Small, Live Better: Join the "Rethink Healthy" Movement

BPI AIA invites every Filipino family to take that first step—no matter how small—towards a healthier, more secure future. With guidance from role models like Drew and Iya Arellano, the journey toward holistic well-being has never felt more doable.

Because a healthier tomorrow starts with today’s small choices.

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Canon Makes Back-to-School Brighter with Affordable, High-Performance Printers for Students

Canon Makes Back-to-School Brighter with Affordable, High-Performance Printers for Students

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Canon’s “Print Your Way to A+” campaign launches exciting deals, rewards, and campus events for the school year

As the academic year kicks off, Canon Marketing Philippines is empowering students with practical, cost-effective printing solutions that support both academic and creative pursuits. Through its Print Your Way to A+ campaign and the ongoing Canon Campus Tour 2025, Canon is bringing its top-performing MegaTank and PIXMA printers closer to Filipino students ensuring high-quality, low-cost printing right in their study spaces.

Held at Marco Polo Ortigas, Canon’s recent media event spotlighted how students can thrive in school with reliable, budget-friendly printers that offer easy maintenance, wireless printing, and huge ink savings. Canon also unveiled major updates designed to lighten the load for students and families alike, including:

• Lower ink prices across PIXMA MegaTank printers
• An expanded Canon Rewards program, now redeemable at over 400 merchants nationwide via Giftaway e-gift certificates
• The new Ink Bundle Promo, which gives buyers of select PIXMA MegaTank models (G2730, G3730, G4770, G3780, and G4780) a free set of GI-71s inks until September 30, 2025

“We recognize that students face increasing academic demands while managing limited resources,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President and CEO of Canon Marketing Philippines. “Our back-to-school campaign is all about giving them tools that work hard—just like they do.”

Smarter Printing for Smarter Students

During the event, student leaders and media guests experienced firsthand the ease and efficiency of Canon’s PIXMA and MAXIFY MegaTank printers. Designed for high-volume printing, the MAXIFY MegaTank can churn out up to 21,000 color pages or 9,000 black pages in economy mode that is perfect for notes, assignments, and presentations.

Other standout features included:

• Wireless connectivity for printing straight from phones and tablets
• Auto two-sided printing to save paper
• Compact designs ideal for small dorms or home study corners
• Canon Print App integration, which lets users track rewards points and manage printing remotely

Supporting Mental Wellness in Education

Adding heart to the tech-focused event was guest speaker Riyan Portuguez, better known as “Your Millennial Psychologist,” who shared insights on mental wellness and academic resilience. Her talk reminded attendees that thriving in school isn’t just about having the right tools—it’s also about taking care of mental health.

Canon Campus Tour 2025: Coming to a School Near You

The Canon Campus Tour 2025 is already underway, with its first leg held at De La Salle University. Canon will continue visiting top schools in Metro Manila, offering interactive demos, exclusive deals, and fun activities:

• Centro Escolar Integrated School – July 3–4
• De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Taft) – July 9–10
• FEU High School – July 23–24
• University of Santo Tomas – Week of August 4
• Assumption College – Week of August 11
• Ateneo de Manila University – Week of August 18
• Miriam College & Lyceum of the Philippines University – Week of August 25

From everyday printing to creative projects and student wellness, Canon is showing up for students in more ways than one. Don’t miss your campus stop!

For more information, visit the Canon Philippines Campus Tour 2025 official page and follow Canon Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements.

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Champion Bags: A Smarter Plastic Choice for a Sustainable Future

Champion Bags: A Smarter Plastic Choice for a Sustainable Future

In a world drowning in plastic waste, Champion Bags offers a practical and meaningful way for Filipinos to make a difference. As Thailand’s leading eco-friendly trash bag brand, trusted in over 20,000 stores, Champion Bags is finally arriving in the Philippines. The launch was solidified through a contract signing event in Bangkok, marking an exciting step towards a cleaner, more responsible future for Filipino households.

A Mission Rooted in Purpose

Sustainability is not merely a business trend but a personal responsibility for Joshua Abrera Janairo, the founder of Sustainable Strategic and the visionary who introduced Champion Bags to the Philippines.

“I’ve always been an eco-conscious consumer. During my graduate studies, sustainability was a central theme, and my professors instilled in me the importance of integrating it into business. Consumers today are more informed than ever, and I believe now is the best time to introduce products that are both purposeful and sustainable,” he shares.

Champion Bags was introduced to Janairo in late 2023 during a meeting with a retail partner, who had seen the brand’s success in Thailand. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable waste solutions in the Philippines, he took on the challenge of making it accessible to Filipino consumers.

By July 2024, Sustainable Strategic, Janairo’s Singapore-based holding company, focused on sustainable Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) distribution, secured regional distribution rights for Champion Bags, ensuring that Filipinos have access to an eco-friendly trash bag that truly makes a difference.

Why Champion Bags?

Many “eco-friendly” trash bags available today still use oxo-degradable plastics, which were once seen as a sustainable alternative. However, research has since proven that these break down into harmful microplastics, which pollute oceans, soil, and even enter our food chain. This is why major markets like the EU and Canada have banned oxo-degradable plastics altogether since 2021 and 2024, respectively.

Instead of following the biodegradable route, which requires specialized facilities not yet widely available in the Philippines, Champion Bags takes a smarter approach by using recycled plastics in line with circular economy principles. This means:

Less plastic waste – By repurposing existing plastic, Champion Bags helps keep waste out of landfills and oceans.

Stronger, more durable bags – Unlike some biodegradable alternatives that easily tear, Champion Bags are designed for reliable, everyday use.

A solution that works NOW – Without requiring new waste processing infrastructure, these bags can be seamlessly integrated into the existing system.

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned about sustainability is that it must be adapted to a market’s unique conditions. In the Philippines, we rely on landfill-based waste management. Instead of waiting for large-scale infrastructure changes, we need immediate solutions that work within our reality,” Janairo reveals.

Join the Movement: #BagABetterFuture

Champion Bags is about changing how we think about waste, making sustainability easy, accessible, and truly impactful.

Made from Recycled Plastics – A smarter choice that minimizes environmental impact.

Durable & Reliable – Strong, tear-resistant, and leak-proof for daily household and business use.

Scented & Unscented Variants – Available in Strawberry, Apple, and Lavender, plus a fragrance-free option.

Champion Bags isn’t just a product—it’s a movement. Through campaigns like #BagABetterFuture and #PlasticWithPurpose, Filipinos are encouraged to make small, everyday choices that lead to a bigger impact. Champion Bags officially launches this April 2025. Available in major retail stores and online. Make the switch today and be part of the change!

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Last Call for Entries to the 73rd Palanca Awards

Last Call for Entries to the 73rd Palanca Awards

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Don’t miss the chance to be recognized in the field of literature! Submit your work to the 73rd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA) before the deadline on June 30, 2025.

Official contest rules and entry forms are available at the Palanca Awards website under the Contest page.

The Palanca Awards invites all Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens of all ages to participate, based whether locally or abroad. Authors are allowed to submit only one (1) entry per category:

● English Division – Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-act Play, and Full-length Play;

● Filipino Division – Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tula Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula;

● Regional Languages Division – Short Story-Cebuano, Short Story-Hiligaynon, and Short Story-Ilokano;

● Kabataan Division – Kabataan Essay (English) and Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino)

The Kabataan Division, dedicated to young writers under 18 years old, is accepting submissions of informal, personal essays on the theme: “AI is rapidly transforming daily life, revolutionizing how we learn, analyze information, and solve problems. How can I effectively use AI to enhance learning while maintaining personal responsibility, independent thought, and ethical integrity?” for Kabataan Essay (English) and “Mabilis na binabago ng AI ang pang-araw-araw na buhay, binabago ang paraan ng ating pag-aaral, pagsusuri ng impormasyon, at paglutas ng mga suliranin. Paano ko epektibong magagamit ang AI upang mas mapahusay ang pag-aaral habang pinapanatili ang personal na responsibilidad, malayang pag-iisip, at integridad sa etika?” for Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino).

Works eligible for the contest include those that were first published or produced between 1 June 2024 and 30 June 2025, as well as unpublished or unproduced works. For the Dulang Pampelikula category, only unproduced works are eligible. Entries that have received a prize in another contest before midnight of 30 June 2025 are not qualified.

All submissions must be done online through the Palanca Awards website. The Carlos Palanca Foundation will not accept printed or email submissions for any categories.

Winners will be honored in a special ceremony later this year. Stay tuned for further announcements by following the CPMA website and CPMA Facebook. For further inquires please contact Ms. Ester Alfaro via email at cpfoundation@palancaawards.com.ph or by landline at +632 8478 7996. You may also call or leave a message at +63917 828 2762 (+63917 828 CPMA) to ensure your inquiry is acknowledged and addressed promptly.

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HUAWEI Partners with RUNRIO for Community Run Event to Take ‘Active Rings’ Movement to Manila

HUAWEI Partners with RUNRIO for Community Run Event to Take ‘Active Rings’ Movement to Manila

HUAWEI forwards its global movement to inspire communities to live healthier lifestyles as it brings its ‘Active Rings’ initiative to the Philippines. This marks the next major stop in HUAWEI’s worldwide series of high-energy fitness events across the globe.

As part of its ‘Active Rings’ fitness campaign, HUAWEI is partnering with renowned running events organizer RUNRIO to host a community run event. Happening on June 28 at Block 20, SM Mall of Asia Complex, the event will serve as a celebration of movement, fitness, and joy powered by HUAWEI’s innovative technology.

Enjoy Every Movement and Every Moment with HUAWEI’s Active Rings

‘Active Rings,’ a fresh take on HUAWEI’s successful ‘Light Up Your Rings’ campaign, redefines how the community connects with their health. Centered around the ‘Enjoy Your Moment’ philosophy, the initiative helps communities to keep moving in an increasingly fitness-focused world. It invites people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels to stay active anywhere, anytime, and anyway, not for perfection, but for joy, consistency, and personal progress.

HUAWEI encourages users everywhere to participate in the global movement with city-specific workouts. Some cities that have participated in the movement included Berlin, Paris, Mexico City, Shenzhen, and Madrid.

Run to Triumph with HUAWEI Wearables

The community run event will also spotlight HUAWEI wearable innovations, including the newly-released HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series. HUAWEI’s wearable devices feature the smart activity rings, which are designed to motivate users to keep moving throughout the day in order to meet their fitness goals. The blue ring reflects users’ movement, the yellow ring tracks workouts or aerobic activities, while the red ring shows the calories users burned. Every completed ring is a mini victory. Together, they build a sustainable rhythm of movement, strength, and self-care.

During the event, participants will get to put HUAWEI’s wearable devices to the test by wearing the smartwatches while running. Participants will be challenged to close out the activity rings during their run. More than a test of endurance, the community run event will showcase the unifying spirit of HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings’ initiative. The event provides Filipinos a chance to be part of a movement that’s transforming how the world stays active.

To learn more about HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings’ campaign and the community run event, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

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Stream with Pride: LGBTQ+ Stories to Watch This Month

Stream with Pride: LGBTQ+ Stories to Watch This Month

This month, let Lionsgate Play bring pride to your screen.

From thrilling dramas to poignant comedies, some of the most compelling stories being told today are ones that highlight the LGBTQ+ experience. This month, we've handpicked five captivating shows and films that celebrate identity, explore relationships, and showcase the power of connection. These stories are bold, raw, and unapologetic, promising to entertain, challenge, and resonate with audiences everywhere.

Grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to stream with pride.

Killing Eve

What happens when obsession spirals into a dangerous game of cat and mouse? Killing Eve is a deliciously twisted thriller that blurs the line between hunter and hunted. Following the story of Eve (Sandra Oh), a bored MI5 officer, and Villanelle (Jodie Comer), a flamboyant, unhinged assassin, their dynamic is nothing short of electrifying. From sudden plot twists to emotionally charged encounters, the series explores complexities of desire, loyalty, and morality. Will their intoxicating connection survive the violence surrounding them, or will it lead to their undoing?

High Town

Revisit the shadows of Cape Cod in High Town, a gritty crime series that dives deep into addiction, redemption, and the search for truth. We follow Jackie Quinones (Monica Raymund), a lesbian federal agent battling her own demons while investigating a murder tied to Cape Cod's opioid epidemic. With stunning cinematography and an intense emotional core, High Town serves up suspense, raw emotion, and a lead character whose flaws make her all the more human. Can Jackie crack the case while saving herself, or will the darkness consume her?

Casual

Love, sex, and life get messy in the brilliantly witty dramedy, Casual. This series takes a closer look at family dynamics through the unconventional relationship of Valerie (Michaela Watkins), a recently divorced therapist, her tech-savvy yet aimless brother Alex (Tommy Dewey), and her teenage daughter Laura (Tara Lynne Barr). While not strictly an LGBTQ+ storyline, the show's fearless exploration of romantic and sexual fluidity gives it a fresh edge. Whether it’s navigating modern dating or learning to support each other, Casual serves a hearty dose of both comedy and introspection.

Emmanuelle

Sensual and groundbreaking, Emmanuelle is a cult classic that explores sexuality and self-discovery without fear or apology. Following the adventures of its titular character (played by Noémie Merlant), the film challenges taboos and revels in the liberation of desire. It’s bold, it’s provocative, and it’s a story that paved the way for exploring themes of sexual identity with candor. For fans of artful storytelling and unapologetic passion, Emmanuelle is a must-watch.

A Very English Scandal

What if the truth was more shocking than fiction? Based on a true story, A Very English Scandal dives into the outrageous 1970s political scandal involving British MP Jeremy Thorpe. Hugh Grant delivers a career-defining performance as Thorpe, a man desperate to keep his relationship with Norman Scott (Ben Whishaw), a secret at all costs. This darkly humorous drama blends satire with genuine heartbreak, illuminating the devastating consequences of societal oppression.

Celebrate diversity and connection. Watch these captivating LGBTQ stories on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home and Smart.

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Xiaomi supports Malabon public school in Brigada Eskwela 2025, equips them with new smart AIoT devices for enhanced learning

Xiaomi supports Malabon public school in Brigada Eskwela 2025, equips them with new smart AIoT devices for enhanced learning

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

The initiative brings the school a “Xiaomi-Powered Room” that provides students a better learning environment

Xiaomi Philippines, in continued partnership with World Vision, is proud to announce its participation in Brigada Eskwela 2025 at a public school in Malabon.

Brigada Eskwela is the Department of Education’s yearly nationwide drive to conduct maintenance and repairs to public schools across the Philippines before the start of the academic year. Xiaomi Philippines has been a partner of the initiative since 2024, and the brand’s participation in Brigada Eskwela goes beyond traditional bayanihan as it aims to transform a classroom into a "Xiaomi-Powered Room" equipped with state-of-the-art smart devices to foster an enhanced learning environment for students.

The event saw a robust turnout of volunteers from the Xiaomi Team and World Vision, all united in their commitment to educational upliftment. Activities included the repainting and cleaning of classrooms and school premises, culminating in a special classroom unveiling and turnover ceremony.

The highlight of the Brigada Eskwela initiative was the official unveiling of the newly refurbished “Xiaomi-Powered Room,” which showcases the integration of modern technology into a traditional learning space. The donated items include Xiaomi smart TVs, smart fans, air purifiers, smart cameras, wi-fi mesh systems, a smart projector, and a smart vacuum cleaner.

The Brigada Eskwela spirit was in full swing, with volunteers diligently engaged in the repainting of classrooms and the thorough cleaning of school premises, ensuring a conducive and welcoming atmosphere for the returning students.

The team also supplied the school with Xiaomi bags filled with essential items to kickstart their school year.

"It always needs a village to educate a child–the school alone cannot do that. We are so grateful to have partners from World Vision and Xiaomi. This help and assistance will be very beneficial for our teachers and students,” said Nenita Rivera, school head.

"On behalf of all of us at Xiaomi, we’re all happy and excited to take another step with you. May our support and donation in this year’s Brigada Eskwela serve both students and teachers in their immediate learning and teaching needs. At Xiaomi, we are committed to making our technology accessible to everyone, and we’re honored to play a part in making better learning environments. Efforts like this are a step toward helping Filipino students dream bigger, reach further, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families,” said Tomi Adrias, head of marketing at Xiaomi Philippines.

"I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Xiaomi for bridging the gap, as we have great challenges in education. We cannot do it alone, which is why this type of partnership will really help our students improve their learning experiences,” said Alma Acub, World Vision program manager.

Xiaomi’s continued participation in the Brigada Eskwela project every year exemplifies the brand’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, fostering community engagement, and leveraging technology to empower the next generation of Filipino students.

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Jeno Panganiban returns the Philippine flag to Mount Everest after almost 20 years

Jeno Panganiban returns the Philippine flag to Mount Everest after almost 20 years

Monday, June 23, 2025

Almost two decades after the last Filipino summited Mount Everest, Jeno Panganiban, along with two other mountaineers, has made history, putting the Philippine flag back on top of the world.

A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at De La Salle University, Jeno developed his love for hiking when he was a third-year college student. In 2016, encouraged by friends and classmates who posted their hiking photos on social media, Jeno set out to climb his mother mountain, the first mountain that a hiker summits, Mount Talamitam in Batangas, at 21 years old.

Nine years later, he is the youngest male Filipino and the 11th Filipino mountaineer to summit Mount Everest.

“It’s not a light undertaking, and it’s not for everyone,” shares Jeno as he recounts the challenges he experienced throughout his climb. For him, preparing for a climb that fewer than 10,000 people on Earth have accomplished requires years of hard work and dedication.

He resigned from his position as a software engineer and started his own distribution business that supplied healthy fruits and vegetables across Metro Manila to fully dedicate himself to his passion. Unbound to the routine schedule of corporate life, Jeno now had more time to pursue the ambitious climbs that few mountaineers could only dream of.

He first visited the Mount Everest Base Camp, the first of the five camps and the lowest elevation camp of the mountain, in 2022, when his aspiration to reach its summit began.

Since then, Jeno has dedicated his training to climbing Mount Everest. His first test that helped him prove his ability to achieve his dream was reaching the top of Mount Manaslu in Nepal, the 8th highest mountain in the world with a peak of 8,163 metres, in September 2024 and two weeks later, climbing a more technical expedition requiring rock climbing, ice climbing, and fixed-line ascent, Mount Ama Dablan in Nepal.

In April 2025, he returned to Nepal and began his ascent to the world’s highest peak with the full support of his family, loved ones, friends, and Century Tuna, along with Filipinos across the country.

From Everest’s Base Camp to Camp 4, he encountered numerous life-threatening challenges that tested his physical limitations and mental capacity.

“You have to be comfortable in being uncomfortable,” says Jeno. “So every day, we made sure that our bodies were in the right condition. I made sure my body and mind were ready for the push.”

The first challenge that every Mount Everest summiteer faces is the Khumbu Icefall, a treacherous shifting terrain of seracs (towering ice columns), deep crevasses, and unstable ice blocks that can fall into deep snow cliffs at any time.

As Jeno and his expedition team forged higher up the mountain, they faced increasingly freezing temperatures and high altitudes that pushed their bodies to their limit. With the lack of oxygen from the thin mountain air coupled with raging winds, some mountaineers experienced various combinations of altitude sickness symptoms, including migraines, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and lack of appetite.

Relying on his training, Jeno rallied through these challenges while experiencing snow blindness and intense sun exposure. He recalled powering through losing the feeling of his fingers and toes at various periods during the climb because he was determined to reach the top, a dream that is, finally, within his reach. He did not want his fellow Filipinos to wait another 20 years for the Philippine flag to be raised on the highest global stage. This journey was more than just about reaching the summit, it was about showing every dreamer back home that with courage in the heart and perseverance in the soul, even the impossible can be within reach.

And when he finally stood at the top of the world, that dream took on a breathtaking form, witnessing the astonishing curvature of the Earth was unlike any other experience in his life.

“It’s an incomparable feeling. At first, I didn’t register that I was already there. But when it sunk in, I realized that I was on top of the world. I was higher than any person or any animal in the world,” recalls Jeno.

For most, conquering the summit of Mount Everest would be the end of a lifelong journey, the peak of their mountaineering career. But for Jeno, climbing Everest was a pace setter. He is already planning his next climb. He has set his sights on summiting K2, nicknamed The Savage Mountain for its extreme climbing difficulty and dangerous conditions, located on the border between Pakistan and China. Eventually, he plans to finish climbing the 14 mountains on Earth with peaks above 8,000 meters, known as the “8,000-meter peaks.”

Jeno has more summits to conquer and he hopes that someday he can pass on the lessons he learned along his climbs to the next generation of Filipino mountaineers who will continue to wave the Philippine flag on top of the world.

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Eco Hotels Philippines Becomes First Filipino Hospitality Brand to Commit to 30% Plant-Based Menu Offerings by 2025

Eco Hotels Philippines Becomes First Filipino Hospitality Brand to Commit to 30% Plant-Based Menu Offerings by 2025

Eco Hotels Philippines won praise today from international NGO Lever Foundation for its commitment to increasing plant-based menu offerings to 30% across all its properties by 2025, making it the first homegrown Filipino hospitality brand to formalize such a comprehensive plant-forward initiative. The expansion builds on the company's existing sustainability framework, which has positioned it as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality. It incorporates innovative plant-based dishes while responding to growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible dining options.

The plant-based menu expansion represents a natural evolution of Eco Hotels' established sustainable practices, which include inclusive hiring from local communities, green supply chain partnerships, and eco-conscious design principles. Founded by Don Ramon Bagatsing and Alessandra Atienza with a vision rooted in environmental preservation and cultural respect, the company operates on a triple bottom line approach of People, Planet, and Profit.

"Expanding our plant-based offerings reflects Eco Hotels’ core values of environmental preservation and community care," said Don Ramon Bagatsing, Chairman and Chief Vibe Officer of Eco Hotels Philippines. "By committing to make at least 30% of our menu plant-based, we strengthen our mission to prioritize People, Planet, and Profit, while reinforcing our role as a sustainability leader in Filipino hospitality."

"As a homegrown hospitality brand, we believe in leading by example," added Alessandra Atienza, President and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Hotels Philippines. "By committing to more sustainable food choices, we’re not only meeting the growing demand for healthier and eco-friendly options, but also reinforcing our long-standing dedication to responsible tourism."

"Eco Hotels Philippines' commitment marks a strong advancement in sustainable food service within the Philippine hospitality landscape," said Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation, which worked with Eco Hotels on developing this initiative. "As the first homegrown Filipino brand to embrace this level of plant-forward commitment, Eco Hotels demonstrates how locally-rooted hospitality companies can lead meaningful environmental action while establishing new industry benchmarks."

The expansion of plant-based offerings supports Eco Hotels' broader sustainability framework, which includes goals for reducing food waste, carbon emissions, and water usage. Research shows that plant-based proteins generate up to 90% lower greenhouse gas emissions and require up to 90% less land and water use than animal proteins, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has found that plant-based foods generate approximately 50% less food waste than meat and dairy foods, highlighting the significant environmental benefits of Eco Hotels Philippines' new initiative.

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