Filipino Chinese Community Mobilizes P10 Million in Aid for Typhoon Victims Across Luzon

IN an expression of solidarity and bayanihan, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) announced last August 28 the recent massive relief effort totaling Ten Million Pesos (P10,000,000.00) for communities across Luzon devastated by recent typhoons and floods

The initiative, spearheaded by FFCCCII and the “Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation,” in collaboration with 30 major Filipino Chinese community associations, includes the distribution of essential goods and 50,000 packs of 5-kilo rice to affected cities and provinces, including Metro Manila, Baguio, Pangasinan, La Union, Tarlac, Bulacan, Pampanga, Olongapo, and Palawan.

A significant component of this nationwide effort is a targeted, city-wide relief operation in Quezon City, undertaken in partnership with the office of Mayor Joy Belmonte and the Philippine Star’s Operation Damayan led by President Miguel Belmonte. 

Others in attendance included District 2 Councilor Mikey Belmonte, District 4 Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte, Councilor Egay Yap, Councilor Raquel Malangen, Councilor Migz Suntay, Councilor Imee Rillo, Councilor Nanette Daza, Brgy. Chairman Dick Bañega and Operation Damayan team led by PhilStar HR head Emie Cruz. 

The Quezon City leg, runs from August 28 to 29, 2025, involves the distribution of relief packs across six heavily impacted districts, representing a dedicated allocation of aid for the city's residents.

The relief operations was held at the following venues: 

District 1: Bthaba Court, Barangay Bahay Toro 

District 2: SB Park, Barangay Batasan Hills 

District 3: Brgy. Hall, Barangay Quirino 2B

District 4: Mabuhay Court, Barangay Tatalon

District 5: Dona Isaura Covered Court, Novaliches Proper 

District 6: Parkway Village, Barangay Apolonio Samson.

The partnership was formally launched at a ceremony held at the Mabuhay Court of Dr. Jose Jara Martinez High School in Barangay Tatalon, District 4. The event highlighted the turnover of a previous One Million Peso donation from FFCCCII to Operation Damayan and served as the kick-off for the two-day distribution drive.

Community Leader Emphasizes Unity in Recovery

Mr. Jeffrey Ng, Executive Vice-President of the FFCCCII, addressed the beneficiaries and officials, delivering a message of hope and unwavering support from the Filipino Chinese community.

"On behalf of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and the 'Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation,' it is both our duty and our profound honor to stand with you today," Mr. Ng stated.

 

He emphasized the collaborative spirit of the mission, noting, "We are pleased to join hands with the PhilStar Operation Damayan and the Quezon City government in this vital mission of compassion."

Detailing the scale of the response, Mr. Ng shared, “Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, our Federation, together with 30 generous Filipino Chinese community associations and the members of our Foundation, have mobilized in the past weeks... donating over P10 Million Pesos worth of essential goods and food supplies.”

In his eloquent appeal to those affected, he offered words of encouragement: “Nakikiusap po kami sa inyo: Huwag po kayong mawawalan ng pag-asa. Ang hamon ng panahon ay malaki, ngunit mas malaki ang ating puso para magtulungan... Lubos po kaming naniniwala na ang pagkakaisa ang siyang sagot sa anumang pagsubok.” (We appeal to you: Please do not lose hope. The challenge we face is great, but our heart to help one another is greater... We firmly believe that unity is the answer to any trial.) 

About the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII): The FFCCCII is the largest umbrella organization of Filipino Chinese business chambers and associations in the Philippines.

For decades, it has been a steadfast partner in national development, engaging in numerous philanthropic, socio-civic, and humanitarian projects that embody the deep-rooted friendship and solidarity between the Filipino and Chinese communities. FFCCCII is led by President Victor Lim.

About Operation Damayan: Operation Damayan is the humanitarian advocacy arm of the Philippine Star,dedicated to providing immediate relief and assistance to Filipinos affected by natural disasters and calamities.

Globe unveils “The Blueprint” to showcase inclusive innovation to uplift every Filipino

GLOBE unleashed its inclusive innovation thrust with the launch of The Blueprint, a first of a series of quarterly media events that highlights how the company is using technology to promote digital inclusion and empower every Filipino. 

By presenting a portfolio of solutions that are intentional, intuitive, and accessible, Globe is demonstrating how innovation directly translates into progress for people, communities, and enterprises. 

“This is about execution with empathy,” said Darius Delgado, Chief Commercial Officer at Globe. 

“The Blueprint showcases how our innovation is inclusive by design; personal where it matters, protected by default, and accessible to all. From hyper-personalized plans and secure digital journeys to consulting that solves enterprise pain points and new entertainment frontiers, we’re the digital enabler behind everyday progress.” 

Inclusive Innovation in Action

Globe starts with its Foundations of Progress, where it guides enterprises through a consulting practice that translates complex technology into clear, actionable strategies. Backed by deep industry expertise and a forward-looking perspective, this groundwork enables small, medium, and enterprise businesses to grow with resilience and agility.

Building on this foundation, Globe moves to solutions Built Around You. Every digital touchpoint is designed to manage friction and anticipate customer needs, from intuitive apps that put users fully in control to programs that return purposeful value. The result is a smoother, faster, and more intuitive digital experience for everyday Filipinos. One of the highlighted projects is GoGIVE, an innovative way to empower young Filipinos to create consistent and lasting impact through their everyday phone use. 

At the same time, Globe ensures these journeys are Secure by Design, embedding protection into every interaction. With tools like Scam Shield and advanced cybersecurity features, Globe safeguards the digital lifestyle without compromising ease and accessibility, so trust in the digital space is experienced and natural.

Globe then creates Value by Design, delivering smarter, more rewarding digital experiences. With hyper-personalized offers, seamless upgrades, and loyalty benefits, Globe shows how value is not only delivered, but thoughtfully designed around each customer’s unique journey.

Finally, Globe reaches out to Designing Delight, unlocking entertainment frontiers that spark joy and connection. Through curated content platforms and interactive experiences, Globe demonstrates how technology can go beyond utility to create moments of discovery, play, and emotional resonance. 

A sneak peek on two of its newest offers designed to delight customers include Beetzee and Globe AT HOME 5G. With Beetzee Play, GlobeOne users can  access seamless streaming, convenient top-ups, and Globe Rewards integration all in one place. No need to download a separate app or sign up to another platform. 

Globe is redefining home broadband with Globe AT HOME 5G, the world’s first fiber-like internet delivered via 5G, perfectly engineered for sharing Wi‑Fi experiences and bringing home with you wherever life happens.

“At Globe, we believe innovation must always serve a greater purpose,” said Carl Cruz, Globe President and CEO. “The Blueprint is a reminder that every product we build, every service we design, is meant to make daily life easier, safer, and more meaningful for Filipinos. By keeping inclusivity at the heart of our journey, we ensure progress is something every Filipino can share in.”

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

Changed for good. Check out Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s new looks as Elphaba and Glinda in the new “Wicked: For Good” posters

THE witches of Oz are debuting a brand new look in Wicked: For Good, as the first chapter of their story changes the trajectory of their lives forever. 

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande return as Elphaba and Glinda in the emotional conclusion of their story, along with Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum.

Watch the “First Look” featurette: https://youtu.be/mssbqu9FvF8

Don’t miss the end of a cinematic cultural sensation as Wicked: For Good arrives in Philippine theaters on November 19. Check out Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest news and updates.

About Wicked: For Good:

And now whatever way our stories end, I know you have rewritten mine by being my friend

Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion in Wicked: For Good.

Directed once again by award-winning director Jon M. Chu and starring the spectacular returning cast, led by Academy Award® nominated superstars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the final chapter of the untold story of the witches of Oz begins with Elphaba and Glinda estranged and living with the consequences of their choices.

The film is produced by returning Tony and Emmy winning powerhouse Marc Platt p.g.a. and by multiple Tony winner David Stone. The executive producers are Stephen Schwartz, David Nicksay, Jared LeBoff, Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox. The first film, Wicked, released in November 2024, earned 10 Academy Award® nominations, including Best Picture, and won the Oscars® for Costume Design and Production Design. To date, the film has grossed $750 million worldwide.

Wicked: For Good is based on the generation-defining musical stage play with music and lyrics by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book by Winnie Holzman, from the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire. The screenplay is by Winnie Holzman and Winnie Holzman & Dana Fox. The film score is by John Powell & Stephen Schwartz, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.

DIREK NIJEL DE MESA LAUNCHES HIS DREAM PROJECT, “JUNBAN” BI-SEXUAL ROMCOM IN JAPAN

“It’s a dream come true for me,” Direk Nijel de Mesa of NDMstudios shares to the press, as he directs his first International Japanese series fully in Nihongo. 

Junban (a Japanese word meaning “order” or “alternating sequence”) is a crazy and hilarous romantic comedy about a confusing love triangle between three Japanese people that started at a disrupted Japanese wedding. The NDM Original Japanese series stars Kazuo Nawa as Hanzo, Shiori Hatano as Fumi, and Adone Kudo as Kimiko. 

The three had a crazy and enjoyable time acting for the award winning director. Kazuo Nawa doubles as an Assistant Director to Direk Nijel (or Nijeru, as they say in Japanese). Ms. Jan Christine was also there during the entire filmming to assist as Line Producer and Production Manager. The series shot cinematically features the mazing Tsuruma Park of Nagoya, Japan.

“It was really a challenge to shoot in Japan during the summer. Some Filipinos even say it’s hotter there during these months,” Direk Nijel shares his intense experience directing the series under the heat of scorching sun. 

“And as you all know, I always wear all-black when I’m filmming—not a very good color during the summer,” he adds. 

The series promises a crazy romp with hilarous antics and unique romantic bouts. Kazuo Nawa gives a stellar performance, mixing humor with some drama, as he chooses which Japanese woman to choose. 

Shiori Hatano is voluptuous and delightful as she plays a character that is no longer in love with her former lover and is trying to get in a new relationship. She was a former member of a girl group and was a professional model before progressing to film work. 

Adone Kudo (also a professional model), also starred in Direk Nijel de Mesa’s “Mama ‘San?” full-length film shot in Tokyo. Ado Chan (as she is fondly called in Japan) finally gets to show her murderous side. She plays Kimiko who is a seductive but manipulative huntress on the prowl for dangerous love.

Globe teams up with Khan Academy Philippines, AI for Learning now in GlobeOne App

IN a shared vision to uplift the state of education in the country, and reach as many  learners as possible, Globe and Khan Academy Philippines have collaborated to bring quality education closer to every Filipino.  Joining hands to focus on empowering students, and educators through inclusive digital learning, this will especially benefit areas where access to learning materials is limited.

 

The collaboration provides timely support for the current reforms led by the Department of Education, particularly in school digitalization, teacher support, and connectivity projects. 

(Denise Fabella, Executive Director at Khan Academy Philippines, Geraldine B. Acuña-Sunshine, President and CEO at Khan Academy Philippines, Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe, and Apple Evangelista, Sustainability and Social Responsibility Director at Globe)

 

At the heart of this partnership is the digital skills program, which blends Globe’s nationwide connectivity and presence with Khan Academy’s trusted global content. It goes beyond textbooks and traditional teaching, offering lessons in STEM, digital literacy, online safety, and essential life skills, accessible online or through the GlobeOne app.

 

Students now have access to courses aligned with the Department of Education’s current curriculum, and teachers are supported by Khanmigo, an AI-teaching assistant that makes administrative work easier, thus enabling teachers to have greater learning impact. Khanmigo can work in multiple local Philippine languages upon prompting, such as Tagalog, Waray, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, and Ilocano.

 

“Education must evolve with the times.  We use technology to make learning easier and more effective for both students and teachers,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. “By working with Khan Academy Philippines, we’re opening doors to leapfrog our students to 21st century learning. Using the GlobeOne app, the pedagogy is inclusive, relevant, and within reach.”

 

The collaboration will include an employee volunteer program for Globe employees to engage with partner schools and communities on how to use Khan Academy's educational resources. 

 

“This is the future and digitization is the way forward,” shared Geraldine B. Acuña-Sunshine, President and CEO of Khan Academy Philippines. “We’re not just talking about physical classrooms anymore. We’re imagining classrooms with screens, smart tools, and open access to a world of knowledge. This is bayanihan in action. Every small contribution, every act of support, helps build something bigger than ourselves.”

Education Secretary Sonny Angara joined Ayala Foundation President Tony Lambino, Ayala Foundation Senior Director for Big Bets in Education Maria Margarita E. Trinidad, and Globe Chief Sustainability & Corporate Communications Officer Ms. Yoly Crisanto in observing students at CENTEX Manila as they use tablets from Globe to access Khan Academy last January. (Photo courtesy of Ayala Foundation, Inc.)

 

Earlier this year, in collaboration with Khan Academy and Ayala Foundation, Globe  provided tablets, Blue Boards, and Globe Fiber Prepaid WiFi to five schools as part of Globe's G-Gantic Goals program. The beneficiary schools include CENTEX Manila in Tondo, Pasong Kawayan 2 West Elementary School in Cavite City, Lahug Elementary School in Cebu City, CENTEX Batangas in Bauan, and Pampanga High School in San Fernando City.

 

"We extend our deepest gratitude to our valued partners, Globe and Khan Academy Philippines, for championing our digital transformation journey,” shared Education Secretary Sonny Angara. “By bridging our learners and educators to digital tools, we’re not just easing the learning process, we’re empowering dreams and shaping their future."

 

Globe and Khan Academy Philippines are calling on students,  teachers, parents, and school administrators to access digital learning through the Khan Academy platform.  

 

To access Khan Academy, visit: https://www.khanacademy.org/.  The  platform can also be accessed through the GlobeOne app. Click the Essentials button, then select Khan Academy.

ICE SEGUERRA LAUNCHES FIRST ALL-ORIGINAL ALBUM AND CONCERT EXPERIENCE “BEING ICE”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — OPM icon, actor, and LGBTQIA+ trailblazer Ice Seguerra enters a powerful new chapter with the launch of BEING ICE — his first all-original studio album — and a two-night concert memoir, BEING ICE: LIVE, happening this September 12 -13 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

The twin launch was officially unveiled at a grand media conference on July 31 at Noctos Music Bar, co-presented with Star Music, the album’s official distributor. Guests and media were moved to tears as Ice performed the emotional ballad “Nandiyan Ka,” a tribute to his late father.

“He always took a backseat just to make sure Mama could take care of me,” Ice shared. “Siya yung nagdadala ng gamit ko. Siya yung nagbebenta ng CDs ko sa mga ka-office mate niya. Ang sakit lang na na-realize ko ‘to nung may sakit na siya.”

“This song is my way of saying thank you. While I carry regrets… I’m still grateful. Because even if I didn’t always see it—nandiyan ka. And I know he still is.”

ABOUT THE ALBUM: BEING ICE

Ten years in the making, BEING ICE is a raw, genre-fluid, and soul-baring collection of eight original tracks that chart Ice’s journey through depression, grief, self-love, long-distance devotion, parental legacy, and queer joy.

This is the first time Ice releases music under his full name, Ice Seguerra — a symbolic and emotional milestone of full authorship and identity. It is also the first album released under his own label, Fire and Ice Music, and his first original studio release in over a decade (following 2015’s Araw Gabi with Ryan Cayabyab).

From the haunting vulnerability of “Anino”, to the sweet ache of “Wag Na Lang Pala”, to the soul-drenched finality of “Natapos Ang Lahat”, each track is a confessional — deeply personal and undeniably universal.

Produced by Ice alongside wife and creative partner Liza Diño, the album features top collaborators Jonathan Manalo, Top Suzara, Mike Villegas, Vince de Jesus, and Trisha Denise.

TRACKLIST

1. Shelter of the Broken – Survival and mental health anthem  

2. Wag Na Lang Pala – Hugot-pop friend zone blues  

3. Anino – Ice’s coming-out letter to his fans  

4. Ikaw Lang – LDR heartbreak turned love vow  

5. Nandiyan Ka – Tribute to a quiet, loving father  

6. Lost in Time – Hidden love in stolen moments  

7. Ikaw Pala ’Yon – Wedding vow to a love that was meant to be  

8. Natapos Ang Lahat – A  final goodbye to a loved one

BEING ICE  drops August 8, 2025 on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major streaming platforms.

BEING ICE: LIVE – THE CONCERT EXPERIENCE

SEPTEMBER 12–13 | NEWPORT PERFORMING ARTS THEATER

TWO NIGHTS. TWO STORIES. ONE ICE.

BEING ICE: LIVE isn’t just a concert — it’s Ice Seguerra’s most personal and ambitious live production to date. Combining live storytelling, documentary visuals, and music that spans four decades, this two-night event celebrates both Ice’s cultural legacy and personal rebirth.

“I’ve sung songs that defined others. Now, I’m finally singing the ones that define me.” – Ice Seguerra

SEPT 12 – ICE SEGUERRA: VIDEOKE HITS

The beloved fan-favorite concert returns. A full-blown celebration of OPM classics, hugot anthems, and videoke staples — from “Pagdating ng Panahon” to “Tuwing Umuulan” to a Kitchie Nadal medley. A night of nostalgia, singalongs, and barkada joy.

SEPT 13 – THE ICE SEGUERRA EXPERIENCE

An emotional, full-spectrum concert memoir built on the Being Ice album. This is the story Ice has never told—until now. Backed by a 12-piece band, the performance blends soulful ballads, rock confessionals, jazz textures, and pop reflections into a powerful sonic journey. From stripped-down vulnerability to genre-bending arrangements, this is not just acoustic storytelling—it’s Ice in full creative command, revisiting his roots, honoring his influences, and reclaiming his truth through sound.

SPECIAL GUESTS

The twin-night concert will feature Gary Valenciano and Vic Sotto as very special guests — two of Ice’s most influential mentors and father figueres in both music and showbiz.

Their presence brings emotional resonance to the event, symbolizing a full-circle moment in Ice’s journey from child star to fully realized artist, sharing the stage now with the very icons who helped shape his path.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE VIA TICKETWORLD

• Weekend Pass (2 Nights): Save ₱1000-2000 

• VIP Bundles: Meet & greet + limited-edition merch

• Barkada Promo (Sept 12): Buy 5 VIP, Get 1 Free