The Search is on for URC Flour's Bida Bakerpreneur!

Are you a passionate baker with dreams of turning your delicious creations into a thriving business? If so, get ready because Universal Robina Corporation (URC) might just have the perfect opportunity for you with their exciting "BIDA SA MASA, SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR" contest! URC Flour is calling all bakers with a passion for baking to level up and join the URC Flour Bida sa Misa. Be the next “Bida Bakerpreneur”!

URC Flour is committed to empowering the next generation of baker-entrepreneurs, and BIDA sa MASA is the company’s flagship program designed to help you rise!

This year’s event will be held in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Pasig City, Sariaya, Quezon and Davao City. This contest will showcase a variety of delicacies, including breads, cakes and pastries as contestants will be representing their respective regions via a unique and delicious baked goods.

There will be two categories for the contest, open to Home Baker or hobbyist who wants to level up their baking skills with the opportunity of owning their own bakery, and for Pro Bakers who have been creating delicious baked goods in a bakery, restaurant or café and wants to expand their skills and business.

Since 2017, Universal Robina Corporation, through its Flour Division, has empowered aspiring bakers through Flourish Pilipinas, a learning program that aims to foster a nation of baker-entrepreneurs. From educational initiatives and workshops to baking competitions, the program has continuously evolved to recognize, hone, and support the skills, talent, and passion of baker hopefuls.

“URC Flour’s initiative together with the support of our partner LGUs, aims to support community members to turn their baking skills into successful start-up businesses. Our goal is to empower them and promote economic growth by organizing a baking competition that offers not only cash prizes, but most importantly, we want to impart the needed knowledge and resources to support their start-up ventures. BIDA SA MASA 2025 will put their newfound baking skills to the test in a lively and delicious baking competition” said Naida Dalisay, Commercial Director, URC Flour Division.

This year’s "BIDA SA MASA 2025" will be URC Flour’s second installment and because of the program’s success, the search for the “BIDA BAKEPRENEUER” contest mechanics has been updated with the objective to equip community bakers with both the technical know-how and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in the competitive baking industry.

WHO WILL BE THIS YEAR’S “BIDA SA MASA” GRAND CHAMPION?

Exciting prizes is up for grabs for this year’s most awaited baking competition from URC Flour. The contest will feature various stages designed to test and develop the participants' abilities, including; Baking Training Workshop: Opportunities to learn new techniques and refine existing skill from URC Flour tech team. Business Coaching ad Planning will be part of the training that will help them come up with their own business plan. Exciting prizes awaits the top winners of this year’s BIDA SA MASA,SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR baking competition. Champions from each category will win a total of P 100,000.00 with P 70,000.00 as cash prize and P 30,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC flour products. Finalists from Pasig, Quezon and Davao who will be joining the championship will get a consolation prize of P 30,000.00 prize, with P 20,000.00 cash and P 10,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC Flour products.

So, whether you're a seasoned home baker with a secret recipe or an enthusiastic newcomer eager to learn, if you have the drive and the dream, we want to hear from you! For complete details about the contest, including eligibility criteria, mechanics, prizes, and how to register, we urge you to visit the official URC Flour website at www.urcflour.com You can also find additional information and updates on URC Flour's official social media channels and other partner platforms. Don't let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Unleash your inner baking star and become the next "BIDA sa MASA"!

Haier and Magic Appliance Center Unveil New Showroom at Magic Mall Urdaneta.

Haier Philippines, in partnership with Magic Appliance Center, proudly launched the grand opening of its new Haier Showroom at Magic Mall Urdaneta. The event marked a significant milestone in bringing world-class innovation and smarter home solutions closer to Filipino households.

The launch showcased Haier’s innovative lineup of home appliances, including the Haier Multi-Door Inverter Refrigerators, Front Load Washing Machines, Televisions, Air Conditioners, and Gas Ranges. The showroom is designed to provide a hands-on experience for customers, highlighting Haier’s commitment to intelligent living through innovation — perfectly captured in its tagline: #MoreCreationMorePossibilities.

Guests were welcomed with a grand presentation of Haier’s most innovative appliances, led by the product managers who detailed the features and benefits of each product. A live Q&A session gave attendees the opportunity to directly interact with Haier experts and gain insights on how these appliances can elevate their lifestyle.

To bring the excitement beyond the showroom floor, Haier and Magic Appliance Center conducted a livestream of the event, allowing online viewers to witness the celebration and innovation in real-time. Registered guests also had the chance to win exclusive raffle prizes, adding more thrill to the event.

The new Haier Showroom serves as a dynamic space where customers can explore the latest in home technology, experience product demonstrations, and receive expert advice tailored to their needs. It reflects Haier’s mission to create smarter homes and enrich lives through reliable, energy-efficient, and user-friendly appliances.

With the opening of this showroom, Haier and Magic Appliance Center reaffirm their dedication to delivering value, innovation, and convenience to Filipino families — one appliance at a time

Philippine Ballet Theatre Premieres “Maria Makiling”.

In line with Philippine Ballet Theatre's (Philippine Ballet Theatre) mission to promote Philippine heritage, literature, and oral tradition while advancing the art of ballet, Philippine Ballet Theatre has created another original Filipino ballet. The centerpiece of their 2025 season is "Maria Makiling," a full-length ballet that reimagines the legendary guardian of Mount Makiling. Through powerful choreography, this performance captures the essence of Filipino folklore and serves as a reminder to uphold good values.

Winning Collaborations

Maria Makiling marks the third installment of the creative collaboration of Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ronilo Jaynario (choreography), and award-winning composer and arranger, Paulo Zarate (original musical score). They are the creative duo behind the successful staging of two original Filipino full-length ballets, Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Ibalon (2023) and Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Sarimanok (2024), which have been well received by audiences both locally and in the U.S.A. Maria Makiling will once again showcase world-class Filipino talent in dance and in music.

Ronilo Jaynario explains, "After creating 'Ibalon,' a hero-based ballet, and 'Sarimanok,' a romantic ballet, I wanted to tell a story that centers on the Filipino community. My goal was to present a ballet that grounds us and evokes a time when love, kindness, and gratitude sustained our communities. This ballet explores the enduring power of love, the pain of loss, and the importance of preserving nature and heritage. Ultimately, it highlights the consequences of a lack of integrity within a community." Creating this ballet was particularly meaningful to him because the Philippine High School of the Arts in Mt. Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna, was his home for four years. During that time, he heard many stories about "Maria," a household name at his school.

Composer Paulo Zarate views Maria Makiling as an exciting challenge, characterized by a collaborative spirit of mutual respect that allows both him and Jaynario to enjoy creative freedom. Their shared vision unifies their work. Zarate explains, "We try to set musical identities to each ballet. For instance, in "Ibalon", it was more anthemic and big, as a superhero movie would sound. In "Sarimanok", it was more rhythmic and percussive, where I played around using meters from 4/4, 3/4, 6/8, 5/8, and 7/8. For Maria Makiling, Ron suggested we go for a more Filipino/Spanish sound, a bit more guitar-driven since both our cultures (Spanish/Filipino) have strong roots with guitar-driven songs like our Filipino kundimans and Spanish flamencos." He hopes that the nuances he created to personify each character and the fantasy treatment in the melodies could really allow the story to flourish on stage.

For this ballet, Philippine Ballet Theatre reached out to Los Banos Tourism office to really ensure that the ballet characterizes Laguna’s diwata in the best possible light. Assisting the creative team was one of Los Banos’ cultural historians UP Los Banos Vice Chancelor for Community Affairs Roberto Cereno, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs.

Quick Synopsis

Set in the scenic town of Laguna, Maria Makiling brings to life the cherished myth of a mountain goddess who protects the land and its people. During a harvest celebration, three men—an arrogant Spanish officer, a scholarly educator, and a kind-hearted farmer—compete for Maria Makiling’s affection. Her choice ignites a dark conspiracy, resulting in heartbreak and injustice. In a poignant climax, nature itself mourns, and Maria Makiling withdraws from the world, choosing to protect it from afar. Though unseen, Maria Makiling’s spirit remains a living force in the land’s prosperity and the people’s hearts.

Casting Choices

Sharing the spotlight in the role of Maria Makiling are Gabby Jaynario and Jessa Tangalin. Each brings her own voice, energy, and heart to the mythical diwata, offering audiences two beautifully distinct portrayals of this iconic character. Their performances promise to highlight both Maria’s strength and her vulnerability in ways that are deeply personal and moving.

Stepping into the role of Juan, Maria’s love interest, are Matthew Davo and Justine Orande. Alternating in the part, they bring fresh chemistry and different emotional shades to Juan’s journey — from romance to heartbreak, and everything in between.

Maria Makiling will have a limited run from July 5-6, 2025 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. Co-presented by Philippine Airlines, Philippine Ballet Theatre will have a total of three shows (July 5, 2025 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm, and July 6, 202,5, 3:00 pm).

Philippine Ballet Theatre aims to continue its streak of success in Filipino ballets. They look forward to engaging new audiences to get to know what is in the heart of our Filipino stories. Tickets are available through Ticketworld or the Philippine Ballet Theatre Secretariat. For ticket inquiries, call 09688708887, 09129455151, and +63286711968 or email secretariat@pbt.org.ph

Rex Education Unveils New Book Titles, Organizes Fun Games and Activities at Philippine Book Festival 2025.

What a fiesta! Over 40,000 visitors captivated this year’s Philippine Book Festival (PBF) and energized the 4-day event at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. PBF 2025 was held recently and was powered by the National Book Development Board (NBDB).

Rex Education the leading book publisher and education solutions provider in the Philippines, participated joyfully and showcased its latest titles by Filipino authors, including Filipiniana titles. REX’s main booth unveiled academic titles from basic, college, and law education, with every offering thoughtfully developed by various experts in the field.

Mr. Paolo Sibal, Ms. Charisse Tugade (Executive Director, NBDB),
and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman and President, Rex Education).

NBDB aptly chose the fiesta theme to make the event merry and fun-filled. Some of the country’s most famous celebrations, such as the Dinagyang Festival, were highlighted during the occasion. In keeping with the festive and celebratory mood, REX offered exclusive deals and big discounts and joined in the fun with exciting games and prizes.

Moreover, REX held a stamp-collecting activity at its Lakbay Aklat booth to give guests an immersive experience. Those who completed the activity received prizes. Additionally, REX organized a Scavenger Hunt where the participants learned more about the company’s offerings while also exploring the event in a fun, engaging way. Those who joined the Scavenger Hunt also received prizes and tokens or REX keepsakes.

What’s more, REX also brought out its Photoman to give guests and learners alike unique photo opportunities to celebrate their learning journey at PBF 2025. This was a great way to capture the event, preserved in a photograph. All these activities and more were a hit with PBF patrons.

Atty. Buhain with some members of the REX team.

REX’s booths demonstrate the company’s commitment to authors, learners, and all book lovers, providing quality Filipino-made books, learning materials, and a dynamic platform for educators and publishing professionals. This year’s PBF, with its fiesta theme, striking and vibrant visuals, and interactive aspects, truly appealed to young children and the young-at-heart. It was a fusion of engaging, experience-based settings with entertainment, education, and shopping convenience.

The Philippine Book Festival 2025, through NBDB, was also an excellent opportunity for the Department of Education (DepEd) and the country’s publishers to connect and strengthen year-long relationships, just as REX and DepEd did during the event. This collaboration enabled DepEd to make large-scale institutional purchases of various learning materials at competitive prices, with the goal of promoting the love of reading to Filipinos and help resolve issues of access and literacy.

As NBDB and DepEd continue the ever-evolving and challenging task of uplifting education in the Philippines through fairs such as the Philippine Book Festival 2025, rest assured that Rex Education will remain a steadfast ally and will provide support in every way possible.

Congratulations, PBF 2025!

3,200 Runners Joined the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025.

The Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 made an electrifying return on May 25 at the MOA Complex, gathering 3,200 runners in a powerful display of unity, health, and purpose. Now on its second year, the run not only championed physical fitness but also advanced Haier Philippines' mission of giving back—supporting education and well-being initiatives for Filipino youth with every stride.

The run wasn't just about reaching the finish line—it was about running for a cause. In line with Haier’s mission to give back, every step taken contributed to supporting educational opportunities for Filipino children, reinforcing the event’s deeper purpose of creating a brighter future for the next generation.

From the early morning assembly to the final steps across the finish line, runners enjoyed a seamless blend of activity and advocacy. This year’s run reaffirmed Haier’s commitment to going beyond home innovation and giving back to the community.

Beyond the race, participants explored Haier’s commitment to innovation through interactive booths featuring its five major product lines: Air Conditioners, Refrigerators, Gas Ranges, Washing Machines, and Televisions. Each booth offered engaging experiences, product demonstrations, freebies, games, and giveaways that drew runners in even after they crossed the finish line.

Participants were also treated to a festival-like atmosphere, with free taho, ice cream, refreshments, photo walls, and countless Instagrammable moments. Many runners proudly posed with their medals, capturing their achievement on camera and enjoying post-run photo ops.

The event also welcomed notable media personalities and influencers, who joined the run and mingled with participants. Runners were excited to meet and snap photos with their favorite content creators, adding star power to the already exciting event. In addition, Haier’s valued dealer partners participated in full force, showing their strong support for the brand’s advocacy and community outreach.

True to Haier’s spirit of giving, top finishers took home premium appliances including refrigerators, TVs, and washing machines—further motivating runners to push themselves toward the finish line. The raffle draws also gave everyone a chance to win exciting prizes, adding thrill to the morning’s activities.

But the true winners of the day were the communities supported by the cause. During the charity awarding, representatives from Autism Society Philippines and SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas were acknowledged on stage, receiving donations that will further their invaluable work. Together, these efforts aim to create a brighter, more inclusive future for Filipino youth.

The event wrapped up with a lively performance, photo ops, and messages of thanks from Haier’s leadership. The energy and enthusiasm shared by all attendees confirmed what this run is truly about: celebrating milestones, advancing technology, and building better communities—together.

Haier would like to thank all runners, sponsors, media friends, influencers, and partners who made the event a massive success.

Until the next run—let’s keep moving forward, together.