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| The Medical City South Luzon Red Gala Team (L-R): Infectious Diseases Section Head Dr. Monica Pia Montecillo, Sta. Rosa City Health Officer Dr. Soledad Rosanna Cunanan, Sta. Rosa’s City Health Officer, Center for Reproductive Health and STI Treatment (CREST) Director Dr. Mark Krsistoffer Pasayan, Gala Committee Head Dr. Christa Belle Loring (Image Source: Business Mirror/The Medical City South Luzon) |
In steadfast commitment to supporting individuals living with HIV, The Medical City (TMC) South Luzon celebrated World AIDS Day 2025 with its Annual Red Gala held last December 1, 2025 at Paseo Premiere Hotel, Sta. Rosa Business Park, Greenfield City, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Organized by the TMC South Luzon’s Center for Reproductive Health and STI Treatment (CREST) with Dr. Mark Kristoffer U. Pasayan as Center Director and the Section of Infectious Diseases led by Dr. Monica Pia Montecillo, this year’s theme is “Renaissance”. It featured a fashion showcase attended by TMC South Luzon physicians, healthcare professionals, staff, and special guests, who walked the runway in colorful attire, looking like queens, kings, or members of the Renaissance Period nobility.
This year’s beneficiary is the Duyan Program of Project Red Ribbon which provides essential medical care and psychosocial support to children and families affected by HIV. Just like all the previous TMC South Luzon’s Red Gala events, it was not only a celebration but also a fundraising initiative that aimed to bring together partners, advocates, and stakeholders in a collective effort to raise awareness, strengthen advocacy, and generate resources for programs that create lasting impact in the lives of people affected by HIV/AIDS. In his opening message, TMC South Luzon’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Earl Richardson Q. Chua emphasized the importance of HIV prevention and treatment and the role of private healthcare facilities to curb the spread of HIV in the region, stating, “The Medical City South Luzon was one of the pioneers in institutionalizing the education and awareness, prevention, and treatment of HIV in CALABARZON. What started as a public and governmental program led by the Department of Health has become a private partnership program at The Medical City South Luzon in CALABARZON.”
With the HIV cases on the rise, especially among the youth in the Philippines, The Medical City South Luzon joins the DOH’s call for enhanced and early diagnosis, and treatment to prevent the spread of HIV through its Center for Reproductive Health and STI Treatment (CREST). Its continued programs, like the Red Gala, help sustain awareness of HIV, educate the public, and lessen the HIV stigma among the population. For more information on TMC South Luzon’s Center for Reproductive Health and STI Treatment (CREST), please contact: TMCSL Customer Care at telephone number (049) 303 3000 or mobile number 0920 981 4454.
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Solaire Resort Entertainment City And GMG Productions Host A Heartwarming Day With The Gift Of Life Program At Brickman® Wonders Of The World Exhibit
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| (Image Source: raincheckblog/GMG Productions) |
Solaire Resort Entertainment City, in partnership with GMG Productions, welcomed young beneficiaries of the Gift Of Life Program for a special day of joy, learning, and celebration at The Space at Solaire, home of the Brickman® Wonders of the World exhibit which runs until February 8, 2026. The children — many of whom have undergone lifesaving heart surgeries through the Gift Of Life program — were invited to immerse themselves in the world-renowned exhibition made from LEGO® bricks featuring intricate recreations of global landmarks made by Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught and his team. From towering monuments to interactive build zones, the exhibit offered the kids an afternoon of creativity and wonder.
Solaire and GMG Productions prepared an exclusive program designed to make the day even more memorable. The children enjoyed meeting Santa Claus who gave each of them goodie bags as a Christmas gift. Solaire’s culinary team also crafted delightful snacks, ensuring each child and their family felt celebrated and cared for. “We are honored to open our doors to these brave and inspiring young children. Solaire is committed to creating meaningful experiences that bring joy to the community, and today’s event is a testament to the power of coming together to uplift others,” said Solaire Resort Metro Manila Vice President of Brand and Marketing Jit Ng. In his opening speech, GMG Productions Chief Executive Officer Carlos Candal says, “At its heart, Brickman® Wonders of the World is about discovery, curiosity, and imagination. We’re proud to work alongside Solaire to open this experience to children who deserve moments like these — where creativity and learning come together through exploration and wonder.”
Gift Of Life International partnered with the Rotary Club of Makati West Gift Of Life Program with a goal to help kids with serious congenital heart diseases in the Philippines. The day celebrated the children’s resilience filled with discovery, creativity, and genuine care. “This event is about giving these children a moment of wonder and happiness. It’s our privilege to collaborate with Solaire Resort Entertainment City in creating a magical day they will remember,” said Rotary Club of Makati West Director and Gift Of Life Program Chairman Lemarc Limosnero.
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MGI Visitor Center Opens, Pushes Geothermal Growth And Environmental Stewardship In The Country
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| During the formal opening of the Maibarara Geothermal Inc. (MGI) Visitor Center, Energy Secretary Garin cites the Maibarara Geothermal Power Project (MGPP)’s unique compact design enabling baseload supply with minimal environmental footprint. (Image Source: PhilStar.com/Maibarara Geothermal Inc.) |
Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Sharon S. Garin led the formal opening of Maibarara Geothermal Inc. (MGI) Visitor Center located inside the Maibarara Geothermal Power Facility (MGPF) complex in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, attended by top officials of MGI partners PetroGreen Energy Corporation (PGEC), Ayala Group's ACEN, and PNOC-Renewables Corporation (PNOC-RC). PGEC is a joint venture between Yuchengco-led PetroEnergy Resources Corporation and Kyuden International Corporation (KIC), the overseas investment arm of Japan’s Kyushu Electric Power Company Inc.
“It’s a pleasure to be here in MGI, to formally open MGI’s Visitor Center, and join partners who share one clear purpose of accelerating transition to cleaner energy under the Philippine Energy Plan. Just this week, we have signed a MOA with the Land Bank, operationalizing the Philippine Geothermal Resource De-Risking Facility (GRDF), to address investment risks in exploration and drive the development of geothermal energy in the Philippines. Maibarara’s success demonstrates that achieving our purpose requires more than just technological advancements. It is ensuring that we deliver benefits for the people and for our country,” said Secretary Garin. The newly inaugurated facility serves as a hub for geothermal energy education, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability advocacy. Designed to offer learning experience, the Visitor Center features displays on geothermal energy, key information on the development and operations of MGPF, and overview of MGI and its community partnership and environment protection programs.
The event also marked the launching of the Maibarara segment of We Power C.A.R.E., PGEC’s flagship biodiversity-focused environmental initiative which champions conservation, awareness, restoration, and ecotourism in regions hosting PGEC renewable energy projects. MGI commits to adopt Kapa-kapa (Medinilla magnifica Lindl.), a critically endangered flowering plant found only in the Philippines. The species is one of 30 endangered species adopted for conservation over the next 30 years under the We Power C.A.R.E. program. First introduced in 2024 through a partnership with UPLB, the program underscores PGEC and MGI’s call for collective action to protect natural ecosystems while advancing clean energy use.
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Boracay Platinum International Open Water Swim Race Slated For March 7-8, 2026
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| L-R: Aklan Governor Jose Enrique M. Miraflores, Coach Vince Garcia, Aklan Provincial Assessor Kokoy B. Soguilon (Image Source: Manila Standard/Aklan Provincial Public Information Office) |
In celebration of the 70th anniversary of Aklan Province, the Provincial Government of Aklan has partnered with Liquid Events to stage the Boracay Platinum International Open Water Swim Race on March 7-8, 2026. Led by Governor Jose Enrique M. Miraflores and Provincial Assessor Kokoy B. Soguilon, the landmark sporting event will unfold at White Beach, Station 1 in Boracay, promising world-class competition in one of the country’s most iconic backdrops. Spearheaded by race director and veteran multi-sport organizer Coach Vince Garcia, the meet will feature elite 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer open water swim races, complemented by a Beginners Day that includes aquathlon events and shorter swim distances aimed at first-time and recreational participants.
“This event is a race and a celebration of Aklan’s 70 years of progress, resilience and natural beauty. By partnering with Liquid Events and Coach Vince Garcia, we aim to showcase our province to the world while promoting health, tourism and community spirit,” said Governor Miraflores. Organizers said the Boracay Platinum Open Water Swim Race is being positioned as one of the safest open water events in Asia with comprehensive safety protocols in place. These include coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, deployment of deep-water buoys, real-time current monitoring, and on-site medical and rescue teams. The race is also sanctioned by the World Open Water Swimming Association, giving athletes global recognition and ranking points. Registration is offered in tiered phases with early-bird rates ranging from ₱1,300 to ₱5,900 depending on distance and category. Family-friendly options, including kids and beginner divisions, are also part of the program. Soguilon underscored the expected tourism and economic benefits of the event, stating, “We anticipate hundreds of local and international participants, along with their families and supporters, which will significantly boost our local economy through accommodations, dining and other activities during the peak season.”
The first day of the competition schedule is set for the main 5K and 10K elite races while the next day is dedicated to the Beginners Day featuring aquathlon and shorter open water swims. Registration is now open via RaceYaya with participants set to receive finisher medals, race shirts, post-race refreshments and a chance to create lasting memories in Boracay. For more information, registration and sponsorship inquiries, visit www.boracayplatinumowsrace.com or contact Coach Vince Garcia at admin@boracayplatinumowsrace.com or 0917-886-6341.
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AweSM Cebu 2026 Brings Sinulog Spectacle To The Max Across SM Malls
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| (Image Source: SunStar/SM Supermalls) |
Sinulog season kicks into high gear as AweSM Cebu 2026 takes over SM City Cebu, SM Seaside, and SM J Mall, delivering curated experiences that grow in energy, scale, and excitement as the festivities unfold. Designed for families, foodies, creatives, and fans, the three malls’ celebration transform everyday mall moments into a city-wide Sinulog gala.
At SM City Cebu, the energy reaches full, maxed-out festival mode, where shopping, spectacle, and star power take center stage. Festival enthusiasts can explore Sinulogtopia with Islands Souvenirs from January 3–28 at the Lower Ground of the Main Mall while the immersive GLOW CITY: Sinulog Centerpiece at the North Wing Atrium sets the visual tone of the festivities from January 8–21. Catch the electric moves of the AweSM Glow Dance Competition on January 17 at the North Wing and crowd excitement peaks with Coco Martin Live on January 17 at the Lower Ground of the Main Mall and the Kapuso Stars Mall Show on January 18 at the Main Mall. Meanwhile, SM Seaside City Cebu anchors anticipation through meaningful and distinctly Cebuano experiences. The Sto. Niño Exhibit at the Cube Wing Atrium provides the spiritual heart of Sinulog from January 8–28 while shoppers can check-out the homegrown flavors at Nakakalokal Goes to SM Seaside from January 16–18 at the Mountain Wing Atrium and the crowd-favorite AweSM Lechon Fest from January 12–18 at the Seaview Wing Atrium. Maxing out the star-studded energy, the Sinulog Kapamilya Caravan rolls into SM Seaside’s concert grounds on January 17 while fur parents also get their moment at AweSM Petstival on January 24 at the Mountain Wing Atrium.
At SM J Mall, the celebration opens on a reflective and artistic note. Vested in Devotion: Cebu’s Fashion in Faith exhibit runs from January 9–31 at The Atrium, Upper Ground, followed by Vested Devotion: Rhythms of Cebu on January 18, and culminating in Vested in Devotion: Runway Edition on January 31, highlighting the movement, music, and meaning behind Cebu’s devotion. Creative tribes can enjoy hands-on experiences through AweSM Mask Painting on January 10 at Kyureto Art Space, Second Level while shoppers ease into the season with the AweSM Cebu Sale 2026 from January 12–18 at participating stores across SM J Mall, SM City Cebu, and SM Seaside. The Sinulog spectacle reaches its ultimate high on January 18 as SM City Cebu’s ILLUMINIGHT: Sinulog Drone & Pyro Show takes centerstage fronting the North Wing expansion building at 7:00 pm and SM Seaside City Cebu’s AweSM Skypark Grand Pyro Display light up the Cebu skyline at 9:00 pm, delivering a breathtaking, city-wide finale built on maximum experiences that celebrate devotion, creativity, and festivity at its grandest.
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PH To Host 1st International Longboard Tilt In La Union
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Philippine Sports Commission) |
The Philippines is set to kick off the new year with a thrilling, first-of-its-kind Longboard International Qualifying event — the La Union International Pro, slated to be held on January 20-24, 2026 at Urbiztondo Beach. The event is expected to draw one of the largest international fields in the history of the World Surf League (WSL) longboard circuit. With a direct pathway to the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour on the line, the stakes are high.
“This new format is about creating more access and opportunities to longboarders from all WSL regions. We know there are incredible longboarders in every corner of the world who deserve the chance to compete on the biggest stage,” said WSL Longboard Tour Director Will Hayden-Smith. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio expressed his excitement, calling the event a “real thrill”, and views the La Union International Pro as a major success for the country’s sports tourism campaign which he oversees through the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee created by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “It will be a real thrill to host an exciting new event. The event will bring together the world’s best longboarders, men and women alike, to compete on the flawless waves of Monalisa Point in San Juan,” said Gregorio.
Four direct tickets to the WSL Longboard World Tour are at stake in La Union which boasts of a rich surf culture and world-class waves for perfect backdrop for the landmark competition. Gregorio stressed, “Our Filipino surfing athletes will surely be preparing to show off world-class skill and homegrown heart on home waters. We are excited to deepen our partnership with WSL as the Philippines continues to grow its presence on the global surfing map.” The field will be open to all WSL LQS surfers globally with a seeding formula based on the of the Challenger Series. “The event gives Filipino surfers that shot. La Union is a town with such a strong connection to longboarding and a perfect wave for competition, so we look forward to this event at this location,” said Gregorio.
