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| (Image Source: MOONTON Games) |
MOONTON Games has officially announced the first Magic Chess: Go Go (MCGG) international tournament — the ultimate stage for strategists. Starting September 12, all players can compete in MCGG Rising Stars (MRS), the new in-game feature that serves as the gateway to qualify for the game's first international tournament. Open to all with no registration required, MRS lets players demonstrate their brilliance on the chessboard and compete to be the inaugural international MCGG champion. Similar to the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Rising Open (MRO), the feature will be available every Friday to Sunday across Asia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA), Europe, Indonesia, Latin America (LATAM), Malaysia, and the Philippines through the Open Qualifiers and Division Finals slated to run across six weekends until October 19, 2025.
Every competitor will have to navigate six challenging stages to earn the title of Rising Star. Individual strategy, foresight, and a touch of luck will make every game exciting, giving underdogs the chance to outmanoeuvre the strongest players. Clearing each stage unlocks rewards such as exclusive titles and a chance to unlock a special skin, celebrating players as they climb toward the Division Finals. The detailed rules will be published at a later date. At the Division Finals, the top divisional Rising Stars will face off for a chance to qualify for the first MCGG international tournament. This will be the ultimate stage for emerging strategists to showcase their skills and be crowned the inaugural international MCGG champion. Further details on the MCGG international tournament, including qualifying divisions, will be shared at a later date. MRS serves as the gateway for every MCGG player to rise and shine. Through individual play and low barriers to entry, the new feature gives everyday players the chance to earn their place amongst the stars. MCGG recently launched Season 3: Cosmic Traders — its most competitive season yet. Designed to elevate every battle, the updates introduced a commander ranking system, a reimagined bidding arena, and overhauled synergies for a stellar chessboard experience.
MCGG Producer Gao "Skyhook" Chong said, "The upcoming MCGG international tournament is our most exciting stage yet. We can't wait to see our players from around the world showcase their skills and make their mark as international champions. To support this, we're thrilled to launch MRS, giving everyday players the chance to rise to the top. MRS reflects our vision to build a competitive and engaging ecosystem where strategy and fun go hand in hand. The game was designed to be democratic with low barriers to entry, and the launch of MRS brings this vision to life." MCGG held its first competitive eSports event — the MCGG Indonesia Community Tournament (MCCT ID) — last March 16, 2025. The tournament was a success, attracting thousands of players and spectators as they competed to crown the nation's first MCGG champion. MCCT ID III, the latest edition, surpassed 1 million views across MCGG channels, reflecting the strong community support for the ecosystem. Building on this momentum, MCGG eSports is now expanding internationally, giving strategists worldwide the chance to compete for glory.
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Jollibee Group Foundation Brings Partners Together To Support Farmers’ Growth
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| (Image Source: Jollibee Group) |
Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of the Jollibee Group, brought together the local implementing partners (LIPs) of its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) last August 19-21, 2025, strengthening collaboration and deepening shared commitment to help farmers build better livelihoods. The three-day workshop, titled “Journey To Growth: Strengthening Capacities, Advancing Farmer Enterprises”, focused on giving LIPs practical tools and opportunities to learn from one another. The sessions helped partners find new ways to guide farmer groups more effectively, so they can become stronger, more sustainable farming communities. “This workshop ensures that our partners are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to guide our farmer groups more effectively. As the FEP program continues to grow, we want out partners to grow with us, providing support that truly responds to the unique needs of each farming community they work with,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson.
The capacity building activity gathered participants from local governments, microfinance institutions, cooperatives, farmer leaders, academe, and representatives from Jollibee Group business units – all united by a common goal: to help farmers grow their enterprises and strengthen their role in the food value chain. Over three days, the partners took part in a mix of learning sessions and peer discussions led by subject matter experts from various fields. The sessions showed what it takes to run a successful farm business – from good customer service and efficient operations to sound financial management. The sessions also encouraged participants to reflect on how they can guide farmer groups not just in growing crops, but in becoming dependable suppliers to bigger markets. One highlight was the presentation of action plans by LIPs to strengthen the farmer enterprises they are supporting, which were reviewed by fellow LIPs, creating a space for peer-to-peer learning and fresh ideas that they can bring back to their communities. These presentations reflected the action plans developed during the workshop, anchored on real data, insights, and shared experiences.
Sacred Heart Savings Cooperative Business Development Manager Justine Lynn Limocon shared, “We learned a lot from the sessions on how we can strengthen our support to the farmers in our communities. We sincerely thank JGF for the continued guidance so we can be more effective and grow together. (Marami po kaming natutunan sa sessions upang paigtingin pa ang suporta namin sa mga magsasaka sa aming lugar. Nagpapasalamat po kami sa JGF sa patuloy na paggabay sa amin upang mas maging epektibo pa at magtulungan upang sama-sama tayong umunlad.)” The 2025 Journey to Growth Workshop is part of Jollibee Group Foundation’s ongoing effort to ensure farmers have the right support system — partners who are capable, aligned, and committed to building thriving farming communities.
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DBP Launches CSR Program For Education
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| L-R, during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for the DBP INSPIRE program: DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Michael O. de Jesus, DBP Chairman Philip G. Lo, Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara, Department of Education Assistant Secretary Cilette Liboro Co (Image Source: Manila Bulletin/Development Bank Of The Philippines) |
State-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has launched a Php510-million corporate social responsibility (CSR) program designed to strategically allocate resources and promote access to quality education in both the basic and tertiary levels, a top official said. DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Michael O. de Jesus said that the DBP Integrated Scholastic Program for Inclusive and Responsive Education (DBP INSPIRE) is a five-year omnibus program that seeks to supplement the National Government’s initiatives for education through collaborative endowment and support projects. He added, “The DBP INSPIRE program reinforces the Bank’s commitment of fostering support to the education sector and is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision to place education at the forefront of the national development agenda.”
DBP is the 10th largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides credit support to four priority sectors of the economy – infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; the environment; and social services and community development. De Jesus said the DBP INSPIRE program is implemented in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) and partner higher education institutions (HEIs) to ensure strategic optimization of the program resources. He said that for the scholarship component of the program, DBP will set aside Php437.5-million to cover the financing of student-beneficiaries’ tuition and matriculation fees, including living allowances for food, lodging, and miscellaneous school expenses along with study materials such as books and uniforms. “In the first year of the program’s implementation, at least 350 financially-challenged students will benefit especially those enrolled in courses such as Engineering and its related fields, Accountancy, Education, Agriculture and Forestry, Sciences, Maritime, Information Technology, and Technical Vocational courses,” said de Jesus. DBP has tapped nine HEIs for the program, namely Bulacan State University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Saint Dominic College of Asia, Cebu Normal University, University of Cebu, Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, Misamis Institute Technology, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, and Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology. The program will provide Php72.5-million in assistance to DepEd’s Adopt-A-School and Brigada Eskwela programs aimed at improving classroom facilities and providing essential learning equipment for 150 public schools in the primary and secondary levels.
De Jesus said the DBP INSPIRE program will sustain the gains of the Bank’s previous CSR initiatives for education – the DBP Endowment for Education Program (DEEP) and the DBP Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (DBP RISE) Program which had a combined budget of Php1.5-billion and benefitted more than 5,000 scholars in the past 15 years. He said the two previous education-related CSR initiatives have achieved significant employment rates of 94% and 96% which is more than the 10-year national average of 94.05%. He concluded, “DBP will continue helping advance quality education in the country through its strong collaboration with the Department of Education and partner schools and universities, and in recognition of the transformative power of education in improving the lives of underprivileged yet hardworking Filipinos.”
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UP Concert Chorus, UP Symphony Orchestra Teams Up In Tuloy Po Kayo Concert: Celebrating 102 Years Of Business Unusual
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| (Image Source: Executive Chronicles/The Pan Xenia — Adelfe Enu Crea Foundation Inc.) |
The Pan Xenia and Adelfe Enu Crea Foundation Inc. proudly presents Tuloy Po Kayo: The Concert — a grand evening of music, dance, and celebration to mark 102 years of “Business Unusual”. The event takes place on September 20, 2025, 7:00 pm, at the University Theatre, UP Diliman, Quezon City. This one-night-only event brings together some of the university’s finest performing groups. The audience will be captivated by the internationally acclaimed UP Concert Chorus, known for its dynamic vocal performances. They will be accompanied by the UP Symphony Orchestra, delivering musical brilliance, and the UP Filipiniana Dance Group, whose high-energy performances blend traditional and contemporary dance. Also participating in this concert are Pan Xenia Fraternity brods and Adelfe Enu Crea Sorority sisses demonstrating that talent knows no boundaries.
More than just a performance, Tuloy Po Kayo is a call to continue the legacy of artistry and ingenuity across generations. Proceeds will benefit scholarship programs, UP student development initiatives and community projects — furthering the Foundation’s mission to support education, creative expression, and social impact. The concert is made possible through the generosity of sponsors who champion talent and community development. Among the Platinum sponsors are Ropali Group, SB Finance, and Villar City. Gold sponsors GIV Capital Holdings and the Cravings Group also play a key role in supporting this meaningful initiative. Silver sponsors are CAT Security Group, Scheirman Construction and Cardinal Santos Medical Center. Special mention to our Patron Sponsors, KPMG Philippines, ELSAL Ventures OPC, Unihealth Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center , Novellino, Miguel & Maria, ATRAM, J.E. Manalo & Co. Inc., A. Brown Company, Tratek Asia Inc and Transnational Diversified Group. This event is also brought to you by GMA, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Negosentro, World Executives Digest, Bravo Filipino, Executive Chronicles, WhenInManila.com and Business Mirror.
The event is expected to attract alumni, students, and supporters of the performing arts. For more information including how to enjoy the best seats, visit the concert's official online page at https://tuloypokayo-theconcert.xperto.ph. Proceeds from the concert will benefit Pan Xenia-Adelfe Enu Crea Foundation initiatives for UP Students, supporting living allowances, university facilitity improvements, and advocacy for education and community building.
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Pusod Inc. Becomes First Official Locator Of DLSL's NEXUS Innovation Labs
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) and Pusod Inc. formalized a collaborative agreement through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing held last August 29, 2025 inside the NEXUS Office situated at the campus' Senator Diokno Building. This partnership marks a significant milestone as Pusod Inc. becomes the first official locator of the DLSL NEXUS Innovations Labs, reinforcing the institution’s vision of fostering innovation, research, and community engagement in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The agreement outlines collaborative efforts in joint research projects addressing climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management. It also encompasses data sharing, policy advocacy, capacity-building programs, and public outreach campaigns — aimed at driving science-based solutions and promoting sustainability within the Batangueño community and beyond. In her message, Pusod Inc. President Atty. Maria Paz Luna expressed heartfelt gratitude and reflected on the organization’s journey, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, research, and purpose-driven action in creating lasting impact. She shared, “Material things are not truly sustainable. What lasts are the non-material, especially learning, because we build on the knowledge of those who came before us… We hope this partnership takes us far. Thank you for giving us an institutional home here at La Salle.” DLSL’s Research Management and Coordination Office Director Dr. Analiza Resurreccion highlighted the institution’s dedication to ensuring that the MOU results in concrete, impactful initiatives, saying, “An MOU without concrete projects is like an arranged marriage without feelings. That is why, following this ceremony, we will begin implementing what we have agreed upon — starting with our first collaborative project.”
Bro. Manuel Pajarillo FSC, former Vice Chancellor for Research and a strong advocate for the environment, also underscored the importance of the partnership, recalling years of shared environmental advocacies with Pusod Inc. and reiterating DLSL’s vision to position Nexus as a hub for research, start-ups, and innovations that drive sustainability and educational excellence. Through this renewed collaboration, DLSL and Pusod Inc. aim to develop research-based policies, promote environmental education, and expand networks to address pressing ecological challenges. With a shared commitment to sustainability, the partnership reinforces DLSL’s mission to integrate transformative learning with social responsibility and community impact.
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Mang Inasal Reopens First Store In Iloilo, Unveils 5G Store Design
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| (Image Source: Punto! Central Luzon/Mang Inasal) |
The birthplace of the Philippines’ Grill Expert, Mang Inasal Robinsons Place Iloilo, has officially reopened — refreshed, reimagined, and ready for the future. On August 31, 2025, Mang Inasal celebrated the blessing and digital relaunch of its very first branch, originally opened in 2003, ahead of its grand reopening last September 1, 2025. The milestone event was led by Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro, brand ambassador Coco Martin, and Iloilo City Vice Mayor Love Baronda, underscoring both the brand’s commitment to innovation and its deep cultural roots. From a single store in Iloilo founded by Edgar “Injap” Sia II, Mang Inasal has grown into one of the country’s most successful homegrown brands. Further strengthened by the Jollibee Group, it has become beloved for its signature Chicken Inasal, Unli-Rice offering, and iconic Ihaw-Sarap (deliciously grilled) dining experience. With over 570 branches nationwide and millions of customers served, Mang Inasal stands as both a Filipino food staple and a symbol of homegrown entrepreneurial success.
Further cementing its industry leadership, Mang Inasal stands tall as the Strongest Restaurant Brand in the Philippines, according to brand valuation agency Brand Finance. This recognition affirms its stature as a true national icon in the quick-service restaurant industry and its enduring connection with Filipino consumers across generations. “This store represents the heart and soul of Mang Inasal. From our first grilled chicken to the millions served today, we remain deeply grateful to Iloilo and every customer from around the world who made this journey possible. This reopening is a tribute to our beginnings and a bold step toward the future,” said Castro. A key highlight of the reopening is the introduction of Mang Inasal’s 5G (fifth generation) store design, a future-ready concept that reflects the brand’s bold commitment to innovation. The 5G store features a more efficient kitchen layout, upgraded Takeout Express, the brand’s first ever Cashless Express Kiosk, and the new Mang Inasal Heritage Wall, honoring the brand’s Iloilo roots while embracing smarter technology, streamlined service, and digital convenience. Castro added, “This 5G store design is our way of making every Mang Inasal experience faster, smarter, and more delightful for our customers. We’re excited for more consumers to see and feel this transformation as we roll out similar future-ready stores in the coming months.”
The reopening celebration also featured the unveiling of the Heritage Wall, a Dinagyang-inspired performance, and a heartfelt number by the Don Bosco Boys Home Choir, symbolizing the brand’s community ties and hopeful future. As Mang Inasal returns to where it all began, it renews its promise to bring Unli-Saya (unlimited fun) experiences to more diners, whether through dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, or delivery. From its humble beginnings in Iloilo to its rise as a household name nationwide, Mang Inasal continues to serve more than just great grilled meals. It serves as a story of Filipino pride, bold innovation, and the flavorful journey of a homegrown brand that has become a true national icon.
