Skip the Lines: Travel Tax payment now integrated into the 'eGov PH Super App'

FILIPINO travelers flying abroad can now enjoy a more seamless airport experience with the launch of the integrated online travel tax payment system via the eGov PH Super App. 

On July 24, 2025, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) formalized this digital milestone through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing held at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. Leading the ceremonial signing were TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid and DICT Undersecretary Christina Condez-de Sagon, representing DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.

 Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary David L Almirol, Jr., Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Secretary Ernesto Perez, DICT Undersecretary Christina Condez-de Sagon, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid, Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, and TIEZA Assistant COO Joy M. Bulauitan.

They were joined by DICT Undersecretary David L Almirol, Jr., Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Secretary Ernesto Perez, and TIEZA Assistant COO Joy M. Bulauitan.

With this digital integration, outbound travelers can now pay their travel tax anytime, anywhere, directly through the eGov PH Super App. By selecting “TIEZA Travel Tax” under the “National Government Agencies (NGAs)” section, users are directed to a simplified payment page that accepts various methods, including credit cards and e-wallets. Once payment is completed, a digital acknowledgment receipt is automatically sent via email, streamlining verification at the airport and immigration counters.

The travel tax integration is also linked to the eTravel System, a unified digital platform that consolidates immigration, health, customs, and now travel tax declarations for passengers arriving in or departing from the Philippines. Thanks to API integration, travel tax compliance is automatically validated by the system, which eliminates the need for travelers to print and present physical receipts or exemption certificates.

To make the process even more convenient, the travel tax payment form is pre-filled using the traveler’s passenger information previously submitted on eTravel. Users simply input their current flight details, significantly reducing manual entry. As part of the eTravel declaration, travelers can indicate whether they have paid the travel tax or applied for an exemption. Upon validation, they receive a QR code for immigration clearance, which helps reduce airport queues and wait times.

The integration of TIEZA's online travel tax system into the DICT's eTravel platform and eGov app marks a significant step forward in digitizing government services. 

“Less paperwork, less waiting time, and more focus on the journey ahead,” said COO Lapid. “This milestone reminds us that digital transformation is not just a goal—it’s a responsibility to make government services accessible to every Filipino wherever they are in the world,” he adds.

DICT Undersecretary Condez-de Sagon also highlighted the initiative as an embodiment of “digital bayanihan,” or collaborative digital governance. “Lahat ng ahensya ng gobyerno ay nagsasama-sama para sa mas mabilis at maayos na serbisyo sa publiko,” she said. The project responds to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 's directive for a “whole-of-government approach” to enhance accessibility and efficiency in delivering public services.

The integration represents a major step forward in streamlining travel-related transactions and reflects the government’s commitment to a seamless, technology-driven tourism experience. With this partnership, TIEZA and DICT have set the standard for how technology can transform public service. The digital travel tax integration marks the beginning of a broader effort to make every Filipino’s journeys simpler, faster, and more enjoyable.

Globe renews support for The EDDYS, champions Filipino storytelling

 

AS the 8th Entertainment Editors’ Choice Awards—more popularly known as The EDDYS—unfolds this July 20, Globe Telecom once again affirms its commitment to championing Filipino storytelling, continuing its longstanding partnership with the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd).

“At Globe, we believe that storytelling shapes culture. The EDDYS has long championed quality narratives and the people behind them, and that deeply resonates with our purpose,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

“Our continued support stems from a shared respect for Filipino creativity, authenticity, and impact in entertainment. This partnership is rooted in a commitment to uplift industries that shape hearts and minds, not just with technology, but with meaningful connections.”

A proud partner of The EDDYS since its earlier editions, Globe sees this collaboration as part of its broader mission to empower Filipino creativity and talent in the entertainment industry. “Globe’s core mission is to enable every Filipino to live a full, connected life, and for creatives, that means enabling the stories they want to tell,” Crisanto said.

“Partnering with The EDDYS allows us to spotlight homegrown excellence while also creating space for more diverse, inclusive voices in film and media. Whether through content partnerships, digital platforms, or initiatives like this, we aim to nurture the creative economy that continues to evolve in this digital-first world.”

Globe also believes in the role award-giving bodies play in shaping the future of the entertainment industry. “Award-giving bodies like SPEEd play a key role in recognizing craft, setting standards, and encouraging innovation in a crowded media environment,” Crisanto emphasized.

“For Globe, this support isn’t just about recognition—it’s about sustaining the creative ecosystem. Uplifting credible, values-driven institutions helps ensure Filipino entertainment continues to thrive. As audiences shift to digital and creators become more independent, platforms like The EDDYS serve as anchors of integrity and inspiration.” 

Globe’s collaboration with SPEEd has also produced memorable initiatives. “One moment that stands out was in 2018, when Globe teamed up with SPEEd to hold free public screenings of Birdshot and Deadma Walking. This was part of our #PlayItRight campaign, which aimed to combat piracy and protect the rights of Filipino creators. It was a powerful way to promote responsible viewing while spotlighting homegrown films,” Crisanto recalled.

“In 2024, we renewed our support for The EDDYS with a focus on helping the Philippine film industry recover from the challenges of the pandemic. It was more than a partnership. It was a statement of solidarity with the creative community during a crucial time.”

“Every year, The EDDYS gives well-deserved recognition to editors, cinematographers, and storytellers who often work behind the scenes. Globe values this kind of recognition because it highlights the craft and care that go into powerful storytelling. That is something we are proud to support.”

Looking ahead, Globe is eager to continue its role in empowering emerging voices. “Globe is committed to being an enabler, not just of access, but of opportunity. That means supporting emerging creators through digital tools, education, and platforms that amplify their voice,” she said.

“We envision creating more partnerships with local studios, schools, and independent artists to bridge gaps in mentorship, production, and distribution. At the heart of it, we want to help tell more Filipino stories authentically, powerfully, and to the world.”

On behalf of the group, SPEEd President Salve Asis expressed the editors' gratitude, saying, “We are truly thankful to Globe for their unwavering belief in Filipino creativity and for helping us keep the spirit of The EDDYS alive.”

ICE SEGUERRA RETURNS TO SONGWRITING SPOTLIGHT WITH TWIN RELEASE: “WAG NA LANG PALA” AND “NANDIYAN KA”

THIS July 18 at midnight, OPM icon Ice Seguerra opens a new creative chapter with the release of two original tracks—“Wag Na Lang Pala” and “Nandiyan Ka”—marking the first twin single drop from his upcoming all-original album, Being Ice.

While Seguerra has long been a beloved figure in Philippine music, Being Ice represents a personal milestone: it’s his first full-length album of entirely original material, his first solo album in ten years, and the first project that fully embraces his own storytelling voice—not as an interpreter, but as a writer.

The emotional centerpiece of the release is “Nandiyan Ka,” a song already being hailed by fans and insiders as this generation’s “Pagdating ng Panahon.” But this time, it’s not about love that might arrive in the future—it’s about love that was always there. Quiet. Steady. Unnoticed—until it was too late.

The song was co-written with none other than Jonathan Manalo, the most-streamed Filipino songwriter and producer, with over 7.9 billion streams across platforms and a ranking as the 141st top global music producer.

“This is one of those songs that wrote itself,” says Manalo. “It came from a very real place—something both Ice and I understood deeply: what it feels like to realize love only after it’s gone.”

“We’ve known each other for years, and there’s so much trust there,” Seguerra adds. “Jonathan and I don’t have to explain too much, we just get it. This song came from that place of knowing and respect.”

Soft, melancholic, and deeply introspective, “Nandiyan Ka” paints a quiet portrait of unrecognized love. “Oh, nandiyan ka lang pala / ‘Di ko man lang nakita,” Ice sings in the opening lines—a phrase that resonates with anyone who’s ever taken for granted someone who loved them consistently and without condition.

It’s a song of regret—not from a love that ended, but from a love we failed to notice in time.

Paired with “Wag Na Lang Pala,” the second single in the twin drop, Ice takes listeners even deeper into emotional terrain. This time, the song centers on a love that remains hidden—a romantic confession kept quiet to preserve a cherished friendship.

The track is co-written with Ice’s wife, Liza Diño-Seguerra, a creative force in her own right. Their collaboration adds another layer of intimacy and vulnerability to the album. In “Wag Na Lang Pala,” the choice is between speaking your heart or keeping someone in your life. Ice chooses silence—and sings the heartbreak of that decision.

“Writing with Liza was raw,” Ice shares. “It was scary, actually, because when you’re writing with someone who knows you that well, there’s nowhere to hide. But that’s what this album is about—no filters.”

The two singles together form a powerful emotional duet: Where “Nandiyan Ka” is about what we didn’t recognize, “Wag Na Lang Pala” is about what we couldn’t risk. One sees too late. The other never dares. They offer a dual lens into what Being Ice promises to be—a deeply human album full of quiet bravery, emotional clarity, and unflinching honesty.

Set for release under Fire and Ice Music, and distributed by ABS-CBN Star Music, Being Ice almost like is an artistic rebirth.

“I’ve spent most of my career giving life to other people’s words,” Ice says. “This time, I get to give life to mine.”

The album is expected to be released on August 8, and features a full slate of original compositions exploring identity, vulnerability, and the many ways we love—quietly, fearfully, and sometimes too late.

⸻

STREAM “WAG NA LANG PALA” & “NANDIYAN KA”

Available July 18 at 12:00 AM (midnight)

On Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and all major platforms

Pre-save now: https://orcd.co/wagnalangpala-nandiyanka

ANNE, JOSHUA, AND CARLO GO THROUGH PAIN, LOVE, AND HEALING IN PH ADAPTATION OF "IT'S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY"

ANNE Curtis, Joshua Garcia, and Carlo Aquino take viewers on an emotional journey of pain, love, and healing in the Philippine adaptation of the critically acclaimed Korean drama "It’s Okay to Not Be Okay."

The series premieres on July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5, with advance streaming on Netflix (July 18) and iWant (July 19).

 

The story follows an emotionally guarded psychiatric ward caregiver Patpat (Joshua) who has dedicated his life to caring for his older brother Matmat (Carlo), a person with autism. Their world changes when they cross paths with a successful yet troubled children’s book author Mia (Anne), who is known for her cold and eccentric personality. As Mia, Patpat, Matmat confront painful childhood traumas and emotional scars, they begin a journey of healing, self-acceptance, and love.

 

Reimagined through a uniquely Filipino lens, the series promises a deeply emotional narrative that explores trauma, healing, and the power of love in the face of psychological struggles.

 

“This is a universal story that everyone would be able to relate to. It’s a healing story and it’s a beautiful journey of love. And at the end of the day, every Filipino, whether it’s family or friends, will be able to relate to the story of healing, pain, and love,” said Anne, who plays the lead character Mia Hernandez, during the series’ mediacon.

Director Mae Cruz-Alviar also explained the show's approach in tackling mental health issues for Filipino audiences.

 

“Kailangan natin i-ayon sa pagtanggap ng audience sa ganitong talakayan tungkol sa mental health. Kasi hindi ganun kalaki ang awareness, so kailangan namin i-handle na ‘wag biglaan ‘yung audience, na ‘wag sila ma-overwhelm. So there is careful handling in telling the story but also staying true to the core of the show,” she shared.

Joshua related how he identified with his character in the series.  “Nakaka-relate ako sa kanya kasi parehas kaming mapagmahal na kapatid at nangungulila sa nanay. Pati ‘yung pagka-burned out ng character ko, naramdaman ko rin.”

 

Meanwhile, Carlo, who plays the character of Matmat Gonzales, underwent immersions  in special schools for persons with different levels of autism and several intensive workshops.

 

Completing the stellar cast are Rio Locsin, Bobot Mortiz, Michael De Mesa, Maricel Laxa, Agot Isidro, Enchong Dee, Kaori Oinuma, Bodjie Pascua, Ana Abad Santos, Sharmaine Suarez, Xyriel Manabat, Louise Abuel, Francis Magundayao, Alora Sasam, Alyssa Muhlach, Bianca De Vera, Aljon Mendoza, and Mark Oblea. “It’s Okay To Not Be Okay” is led by directors Mae Cruz-Alviar and Raymond Ocampo, creative producer Henry Quitain, and Star Creatives business unit head Des M. De Guzman.

 

Catch the most-awaited Philippine adaptation of “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” starting July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5, weeknights at 8:45 PM. Watch it in advance on Netflix (July 18) and iWant (July 19).

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom/news-releases.

8th EDDYS announces 'Little Ark Foundation' as beneficiary

THE 8th edition of The EDDYS (The Entertainment Editors’ Choice) has announced the Little Ark Foundation as its beneficiary, aligning the annual awards with a cause focused on supporting children battling life-threatening medical conditions.

Organized by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), The EDDYS honors excellence in Philippine cinema, recognizing the contributions of actors, directors, writers, producers and other industry professionals. 

This year’s ceremony is set to take place on July 20 at the Ceremonial Hall of the Marriott Ballroom at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.

Founded in 2015, SPEEd is composed of entertainment editors from leading Philippine newspapers, tabloids and online sites. The group has consistently used its platform to celebrate local filmmaking talent. With this year’s partnership, it is also highlighting the importance of giving back.

The Little Ark Foundation provides comprehensive support to children with cancer, thalassemia and other serious illnesses. The organization offers assistance such as temporary housing, transportation to treatment centers, daily meals and emotional and logistical support for families. Its mission is to give children not only the care they need, but also a safe and hopeful space to heal and dream.

“This year, The EDDYS goes beyond recognizing cinematic excellence by standing with children who are bravely fighting for their lives,” said Salve Asis, SPEEd president. 

“Through our support of the Little Ark Foundation, we hope to help ease their journey and bring attention to the crucial work being done for these young patients and their families.”

Part of the proceeds from the event will benefit the foundation’s ongoing programs. 

For more information about how to support the Little Ark Foundation, visit their official website (www.littlearkfoundation.org.)

The 8th Eddys will have a delayed telecast on Kapamilya Channel, Jeepney TV and will have worldwide streaming on iWant on July 27, Sunday.

The 8th EDDYS is co-presented by Newport World Resorts and ABS-CBN under the production of Brightlight Entertainment led by Pat-P Daza and directed once again by Eric Quizon.

Playtime PH is the major presenter in collaboration with Globe and Unilab.

Globe formalized partnership with CCP to empower student creatives and future Filipino artists

GLOBR has formalized a year-long institutional partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) to promote the arts and strengthen creative education among Filipinos, particularly the youth. 

The collaboration positions Globe as co-presenter of CCP’s flagship programs and events : Cinemalaya 2025, Virgin Labfest XX: Hinog, and the CCP Arts Education Program, which rolled out in schools nationwide this June.

Globe’s support goes beyond sponsorship, it's helping the creative economy with tangible tools for young talents. Through the Globe Community Builders Program, students will gain access to connectivity, mentorship, grants, internships, and volunteer opportunities. These initiatives are designed to develop creative and digital skills among high school and college students, aligning with CCP’s mission to nurture the next generation of Filipino artists.

“Together with CCP, Globe continues to champion creativity and innovation among the Filipino youth. We’re proud to enable future filmmakers, playwrights, and digital creatives through grassroots programs that give them both the inspiration and the infrastructure to succeed,” said Rochelle Vandenberghe, Globe’s Chief Marketing Officer.

The collaboration further reflects Globe’s commitment to digital inclusion and nation-building through education and culture. The CCP Arts Education Program consists of  workshops on multidisciplinary art forms and techniques for educators and students in select schools. 

Meanwhile, the Virgin Labfest (VLF) celebrates its 20th year with a fresh batch of untried, untested, and unstaged plays from young Filipino playwrights.  It features educational components like the VLF LabTuro consisting of Theater Talks and a Playwrights' Fair. Some of its much anticipated components are the VLF Writing Fellowship Program, with eight fellows under the age of 30, and a Dramaturgy Fellowship,  where young artists undergo training in playwrighting and theater production.

Furthermore, Cinemalaya 2025, the country’s premier independent film festival, will spotlight full-length and short films of established names in the industry and emerging student filmmakers this October.

“We are grateful to partner with Globe as we continue to deliver our mandate of promoting and safeguarding our country’s arts and culture. This partnership empowers CCP to bring the arts closer to young people—our future artists and creators—in ways that are both accessible and impactful. Together, we aim to create more platforms for artistic expression that speak to the heart of our identity,” said Kaye C. Tinga, CCP President.

The partnership underscores Globe’s long-term strategy to enrich learning experiences through technology and foster a thriving creative community among the Filipino youth.

To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph. 

QC Councilor Alfred Vargas Graduates as Valedictorian in UP, dedicates the milestone to his manager Lolit Solis

AFTER graduating from the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP), Alfred Vargas dedicated the milestone to his manager Lolit Solis.

Alfred was the Valedictorian of the Diploma on Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) program of University of the Philippines Diliman’s School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP). He achieved the highest academic standing whole class of 2025 with the General Weighted Average (GWA) of 1.0288 and received the Dean’s Medallion. 

Accepting his diploma and achievement, Alfred was emotional during his valedictory speech in UP Film Center last Saturday as he dedicated it to his manager of 21 years, Manay Lolit, who passed away last Wednesday.

“Nay Lolit, para sa ‘yo ang tagumpay na ito,” Alfred expressed tearfully.

The 5th district councilor also thanked his wife, Yasmine, and their children—Alexandra, Aryana, Cristiano and Aurora, for their support and understanding for the councilor.

In his speech, Councilor Vargas also gave emphasis to the importance of heart and compassion for effective urban planning.

Alfred also called to his fellow graduates and new urban planners, urging them to integrate kindness and compassion into their crucial role in shaping cities. 

 

"This graduation is meaningless if we choose indifference over kindness, if we prioritize ourselves over others, or if we abandon our principles and the fight for what is right," Alfred stated.

"Walang halaga ang ating pagtatapos kung hindi natin isasabuhay ang kabutihan at kagandahan ng loob. Simple pero totoo. Walang halaga ang lahat ng ito kung tayo ay mananatiling bulag at manhid sa mga nangyayaring kasinungalingan, katiwalian, pati na rin ang malawak na kahirapan,” he added in his valedictory address.

 

"Hindi sapat ang ating mga kamay. Kailangan natin ng puso," Alfred further affirmed. "Hindi sapat ang teknikal na kaalaman o malalim na expertise para maging urban planner—kailangan natin ng puso at malasakit.”

Alfred highlighted that kindness is the root of "malasakit, good governance, paninindigan para sa social justice, paggalang sa pagkapantay-pantay, at pagkilala sa dignidad ng bawat isa.”

 

He further highlighted the vital role of kindness in addressing pressing urban challenges, "Without kindness, we cannot find sustainable and inclusive solutions to the pressing challenges in urban planning—overpopulation, housing shortages, inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation, traffic congestion, urban blight, resource scarcity, poor health and safety, substandard education, social inequality, and more.

"Go beyond tokenistic public consultations. Genuinely listen to and empower diverse community voices, especially those often marginalized, in the planning process," Alfred urged his fellow graduates.

 

Drawing from his own experience as a public servant, Alfred shared how "pakikinig at paninindigan sa tama ay sadyang napakahalaga.” He cited that the establishment of the Quezon City Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office (PDAO) last 2011 spurred by sincerely listening to the PWD community's needs, holding democratic consultations, and practicing people-participation mechanisms with all the stakeholders. It has now produced 25,000 PWD IDs, and given assistive devices to around 4,000 beneficiaries. He also used this same process of holding democratic consultations to pass the National Integrated Cancer Control Act when he was a congressman.

 

Councilor Alfred concluded his speech by calling to a new generation of urban planners: "Let this graduation be a natural ending to our graduate course and the beginning of a new breed of Filipino urban planners who can lead with kindness, expertise, and character."

 

"Nothing is impossible and everything is achievable when we spread kindness," Alfred said, emphasizing that planning decisions should reduce disparities and promote social equity, recognizing the inherent dignity of every individual.”

 

A dedicated public servant, actor, and scholar, Alfred excelled in the rigorous 2-year, 26-unit DURP program, which equips graduates to tackle complex urban and regional challenges. This academic achievement underscores his commitment to lifelong learning, building on his undergrad degree in AB Management Economics from Ateneo de Manila University in 2002 and Master’s degree in Public Administration from UP Diliman’s National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG) in 2021. 

Currently, Alfred’s commitment to learning is on going as he pursues a PhD in Urban and Regional Planning at SURP.

Be one of the first to see JAMES GUNN’S “SUPERMAN”, starring DAVID CORENSWET! Get your tickets to midnight screenings, available now, “SUPERMAN” opens only in cinemas and IMAX July 9

 

#Superman

Photo credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Meet you in Metropolis at midnight? 💫 Be one of the first to see James Gunn’s “Superman,” starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult! Get your tickets to midnight screenings. 

Check showtimes here: www.superman.com.ph 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/KRCa-7ck7uM 

#Superman

Photo credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

#Superman

Photo credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

About “Superman”

“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

DC Studios heads Peter Safran and Gunn are producing the film, which Gunn directs from his own screenplay, based on characters from DC, Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

The film stars David Corenswet (“Twisters,” “Hollywood”) in the dual role of Superman/Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”) as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult (the “X-Men” movies, “Juror #2”) as Lex Luthor. The film also stars Edi Gathegi (“For All Mankind”), Anthony Carrigan (“Barry,” “Gotham”), Nathan Fillion (the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, “The Suicide Squad”), Isabela Merced (“Alien Romulus”), Skyler Gisondo (“Licorice Pizza,” “Booksmart”), Sara Sampaio (“At Midnight”), María Gabriela de Faría (“The Moodys”), Wendell Pierce (“Selma,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”), Alan Tudyk (“Andor”), Pruitt Taylor Vince (“Bird Box”) and Neva Howell (“Greedy People”).

“Superman” is executive produced by Nikolas Korda, Chantal Nong Vo and Lars Winther. Behind the camera, Gunn is joined by frequent collaborators, including director of photography Henry Braham, production designer Beth Mickle, costume designer Judianna Makovsky and composer John Murphy, along with editors Craig Alpert (“Deadpool 2,” “Blue Beetle”), Jason Ballantine (the “IT” films, “The Flash”) and William Hoy (“The Batman”).

“Superman” will be in theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 9, 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #Superman

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

Filipino youth empowered to “go for it” with Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025

OVER 250 student leaders from all over the country, kicking off in Metro Manila, ignited their potential at Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025, a youth assembly engineered to empower the next generation to boldly chase their dreams.

This flagship youth movement, held at the Power Mac Center Black Box Theatre in Ayala Malls Circuit Makati, gathered students aged 18 to 23, creating a space to dive into their aspirations, forge vital connections with peers, and be captivated by individuals who pursued their dreams and transformed them into reality.

 

Anchored on the theme “Let’s go for that dream. Go for it,” the event motivated students to take the next step in their journeys, with Globe providing support through technology, opportunities, tools, and digital literacy. The program aims to stress the role of connectivity and innovation in youth building and community development. 

 

“Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025 showed students what’s possible when passion meets opportunity. Through internships, mentorship, grants, and events, Globe helps Filipino students gain real-world experience and grow into future leaders,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer.

Student leaders Juaquin Pineda, Benjamin Teodoro, Clareene Borromeo 

 

The event featured three inspiring speakers who each represented a major academic strand: Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS), Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

 

Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo connected with HUMSS students through his presentation, “From Rejection to Recognition: Turning Setbacks into Soundtracks of Success, ” where he spoke about school and the early challenges he faced on the road to becoming a renowned music artist. 

Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo

 

Student entrepreneur Soj Gamayon inspired ABM strand students with his talk, “Planting Hope and Harvesting Dreams: Using AI to Uplift the Filipino Farmer,” sharing how he built AgriConnect PH, an AI-powered platform helping local agribusinesses manage risk. 

In just 150 days, his startup won the Red Bull Basement World Finals, outshining 110,000 entries from 40 countries, and gained recognition in Silicon Valley for its potential to transform rural livelihoods. Soj reflected on his journey and hinted at future collaborations with tech enablers like Globe to scale impact through innovation.

Student entrepreneur Soj Gamayon

 

Artist and tech influencer Mikael Daez, representing the STEM strand reached out to students through his session, “Leveling Up in Life: Turning Passions into Purpose in the Digital Age,” where he discussed how his curiosity for technology had piqued his interest towards dabbling in content creation, and how connectivity, access to information helped him. 

Artist and tech influencer Mikael Daez

 

Beyond the insightful talks, Globe curated engaging activities such as the immersive Dream Booth, where students captured their aspirations in short videos, stating their name, dream career, and commitment to their goals. Globe also facilitated connections through Human Bingo, an interactive game encouraging participants to meet new people, find peers with similar ambitions, and capture memories at the Dream Wall. Furthermore, Globe took the lead in introducing attendees to the Globe Community Builders Program, offering valuable opportunities including volunteer roles, internships, student grants, and ambassador positions.

 

Student-special offers in the form of Globe Rewards were also available through the GlobeOne app, where participants redeemed points for perks that match student needs and lifestyle.

 

Globe continues to create spaces where the student youth can learn, collaborate, and thrive, supporting not just their digital needs but also their aspirations in education, career, and creative expression.

 

To learn more about how Globe helps students reach their goals, visit www.globe.com.ph/community-builder#gref.