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| L-R: Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas Vice President for Institutional Affairs Paolo Laurel, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas President Dr. Peter Laurel, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Managing Director Cleofe Albiso, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts General Manager Arturo Boncato Jr. (Image Source: COOK Magazine/Megaworld Hotels & Resorts) |
In a landmark move to strengthen Philippine hospitality and tourism education, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) and Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) – Batangas officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 12, 2026 at the LPU Batangas campus. The partnership was highlighted by a ceremonial Sampaguita planting activity at the LPU Batangas Riverside Campus, symbolizing both institutions’ shared commitment to nurturing future generations. The MOU signing also marks another milestone for MHR’s Sampaguita advocacy which promotes service rooted in love, honor, dignity, and healing.
“This partnership with LPU Batangas is a meaningful step forward in shaping the future of our industry. Through strengthened experience-based education and experiential learning, we hope to inspire the next generation of hoteliers to carry the heart of the Sampaguita in everything they do,” said MHR Managing Director Cleofe Albiso. The collaboration aims to position the Philippines as a top tourism destination in Asia through strategic programs, co-marketing, and co-branding initiatives between the academe and hospitality industry. Under the agreement, LPU Batangas will endorse qualified students for On-the-Job Training (OJT) and internship opportunities across MHR properties while implementing a Study and Learn Program that combines classroom instruction with experiential learning and industry immersion. The university will also work with MHR to develop micro-credential and certification programs focused on emerging hospitality trends, including Halal Certification and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
“The hospitality industry continues to evolve rapidly, and this partnership ensures that students are equipped with both academic knowledge and industry-relevant skills,” said MHR Head of People Management and Development Divine delos Reyes. As part of the partnership, LPU Batangas will also lead the implementation of the Sampaguita Project across its campuses, promoting Filipino culture, sustainability, and hospitality excellence. The partnership reflects a shared commitment between LPU Batangas and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts to elevate Philippine tourism and hospitality education while creating meaningful opportunities for future Filipino hospitality professionals.
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International Tennis Center In Vermosa Strengthens Active Lifestyle Experience
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| Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub (Image Source: Ayala Land Inc.) |
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| L-R: Ayala Land Inc. Vermosa Estate Senior Project Development Head and Leasing Head Norma P. Torres, Philippine Tennis Center For Excellence Inc. Founder Romeo Chan, Ayala Land Inc. Vermosa Estate Senior Project Development Head John Marcial R. Estacio, Ayala Land Inc. Vermosa Estate Project Development Manager Kristin Melissa R. Ofilda (Image Source: Ayala Land Inc.) |
Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) is strengthening its push for active living with a new sports development in Cavite after partnering with the Philippine Tennis Center for Excellence Inc. (PTCEI) to build an International Tennis Center inside the Vermosa estate. Signed last April 24, 2026, the agreement formalizes plans for a high-performance facility that will serve as the home of the Philippine Tennis Academy (PTA) and support both elite training and grassroots development.
The project aligns with ALI’s vision for Vermosa as a hub for health, fitness, and sports-centered living, integrating training facilities within a master-planned community built around movement and wellness. Founded by Filipino philanthropists including Oscar Hilado and Romeo Chan, PTA has focused on grassroots sports development, producing national medalists and international-level athletes while supporting scholar-athletes from various backgrounds. The PTA International Tennis Center is designed as a training complex featuring eight tennis courts, one center court, and 16 pickleball courts. It will also include training and wellness spaces, plus athletes’ quarters for 60 to 80 trainees. While serving as PTA’s main training base, the center will also be open to the public, expanding access to coaching, courts, and programs for tennis and pickleball. The development strengthens the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, expanding its role as a destination for sports training and community activity, while combining grassroots development with high-performance preparation.
“Vermosa is designed as an integrated estate where education, sports, and community come together. Partnerships like the Philippine Tennis Academy allow us to create long-term value not just for residents but for the broader community,” said Vermosa Senior Project Development Head John Estacio. The PTA leadership stressed that the facility aims to broaden access while building a stronger pipeline for Filipino athletes, stating, “This is more than a training facility — it is a platform for opportunity. We are creating a space where every Filipino can access the sport, discover their potential, and join a growing tennis community.” The project expands Vermosa’s sports and wellness facilities, strengthening its position as a hub for active lifestyles and athlete development in the country.
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Globe’s GFiber Prepaid Reaches 1 Million Subscribers, Leads In Prepaid Fiber Internet
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Globe Telecom) |
Globe Telecom announces that its Globe At Home GFiber Prepaid has reached 1 million subscribers, another milestone that reflects the growing trust of Filipino families in flexible, affordable, and reliable home internet. Built on a prepaid, no lock-up model, GFiber Prepaid empowers households to take control of their connectivity, making fast and dependable internet more accessible at a time when rising costs of living and energy challenges demand practical solutions.
With a 15% quarter‑on‑quarter growth in subscribers, this milestone represents millions of everyday moments powered by GFiber Prepaid. This momentum was further fueled by higher‑value reloads, sustaining revenue growth in the prepaid fiber segment. Globe’s approach prioritizes profitable density over geographic sprawl, ensuring disciplined expansion through targeted customer acquisition. By balancing rapid scale with sustainable long‑term value, the company’s success reflects a deliberate strategy rooted in quality growth and customer relevance. Now, families can confidently enrich their digital lifestyle at home, seamlessly connecting up to 15 devices at once and supporting the diverse needs of every household member. From students learning online, to professionals working remotely or managing side hustles, to families streaming entertainment and loved ones staying in touch, GFiber Prepaid delivers flexible, reliable fiber connectivity that makes everyday progress possible. “GFiber Prepaid has become a trusted everyday partner at home. It is a reliable WiFi that adapts to real household needs, without long‑term lock‑ins. As we continue to grow this segment, we remain committed to deliver dependable service, accessible offers, and customer-first support that keeps families connected every day,” said Globe Vice President and Head of Broadband Business Brand Management Abigail Cardino. GFiber Prepaid can be installed in as fast as 24 hours. It offers customer support through the GlobeOne app and dedicated Alagang Globe Viber groups. Plus, it offers at home assistance via the Globe Care‑avan.
Value‑packed offers such as FREE 300 Mbps, six times faster than the previous 50 Mbps, for the same ₱699 installation fee, plus 7 days of unlimited internet, or 30 days of 100 Mbps for ₱999 with free installation, give families greater flexibility to manage their budgets while enjoying dependable, high‑speed connectivity at home. Meanwhile, for those worrying about monthly budget expenses, Globe AT HOME GFiber Prepaid offers a budget‑friendly internet solution that works as hard as you do. Unlike traditional plans, there are no long‑term commitments, just flexible prepaid options paired with fiber‑fast speeds that empower remote work setups and ensure seamless home schooling for the kids. With Globe, families can stay productive, connected, and resilient, enjoying reliable connectivity without the burden of a fixed monthly bill.
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MLW And STARDOM Form Strategic Partnership
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| (Image Source: Major League Wrestling) |
Major League Wrestling (MLW) and World Wonder Ring STARDOM (STARDOM) recently announced a strategic alliance which brings together two globally recognized promotions to create new opportunities for athletes, expand international reach, and deliver compelling content to fans worldwide. The alliance will focus on talent exchange and creative collaboration, allowing athletes from both MLW and STARDOM to compete on new stages and in front of new audiences. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to showcasing world-class competition and elevating the global profile of the sport.
“STARDOM has built a roster and presentation that set the standard for excellence in women’s wrestling. I have tremendous respect and admiration for the level of competition and the athletes who define STARDOM. We’re grateful to Mr. Okada and everyone at World Wonder Ring STARDOM for their partnership. This alliance is about creating fresh matchups, new experiences, and meaningful opportunities for athletes and fans alike,” said MLW Founder and CEO Court Bauer. MLW has established a strong presence in the United States, one of the most advanced markets for the professional wrestling industry. Through partnerships with historically rich and prestigious organizations such as New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) and Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), MLW continues to accelerate its global expansion. STARDOM will leverage this partnership with MLW to further promote the appeal of Japanese women’s professional wrestling not only in the United States, but also across regions where MLW’s broadcast and distribution networks reach. In addition, through increased talent exchanges and the creation of new match opportunities, both organizations aim to enhance in-ring competition and drive further development on a global stage. The alliance underscores MLW’s continued expansion as a global sports property, now broadcasting in more than 60 countries, and strengthens STARDOM’s presence in North America.
STARDOM CEO Taro Okada commented, “MLW has established a firm position in the United States, one of the most developed markets in the professional wrestling business. In addition, we continue to accelerate global development through partnerships with organizations with history and tradition such as New Japan Pro Wrestling and CMLL. Through cooperation with MLW, STARDOM will further convey the charm of women’s professional wrestling culture from Japan to the United States as well as to various regions where MLW’s broadcasting and distribution networks are expanding. In addition, we intend to promote the improvement of the competition and further development on the world-class stage of both organizations by strengthening player exchanges and creating new opportunities to participate in the competition. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to MLW and President Court Bauer for their great efforts in making this partnership possible.”
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Candidates Vying For Mr. And Ms. Lipa Tourism 2026 Formally Introduced
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| The candidates of Ms. (left) and Mr. (right) Lipa Tourism 2026 with Lipa City Mayor Eric B. Africa (Image Source: Facebook/Lipa Status/Mayor Eric B. Africa) |
The search for the next tourism ambassadors of Lipa City officially began as the candidates of Mr. and Ms. Lipa Tourism 2026 were formally introduced to the public and members of the press during a day filled with pride, excitement, and community spirit. They were warmly welcomed by Lipa City Mayor Eric B. Africa during the flag-raising ceremony last May 11, 2026 at the New Lipa City Hall in Brgy. Bulacnin where the city's chief executive extended his support to the aspiring young men and women who are set to represent their respective barangays in one of the city’s most anticipated annual events.
The official presentation highlighted not only the beauty and charisma of the candidates but also their role in promoting Lipa City’s culture, heritage, and tourism. The event marked another milestone for the growing pageant which continues to strengthen its mission of discovering outstanding ambassadors who embody the pride and identity of the city. The candidates were later introduced in a more intimate and engaging press presentation that took place inside The Sosyal Place in Brgy. San Carlos, allowing members of the media and guests to personally interact with the aspirants. The gathering provided an opportunity for the candidates to share their advocacies, aspirations, and commitment to representing their communities with honor and excellence. Competing for the coveted title of Mr. Lipa Tourism 2026 are Jhoma Edd Polega of Dagatan, John Emmanuel Macasaet of Bulacnin, Ghenno Camacho of Kayumanggi, Marlo Anthony Parco of San Jose, Justine Velasquez of Tambo, Glen Wendel Masupil of Sabang, Johan Miguel Piñon of Sampaguita, Mohammad Reza Junior Gholami of Poblacion 8, Vincent Emmanuel Sayas of Antipolo del Norte, and Kenzo Guillermo of Inosluban while vying to become Ms. Lipa Tourism 2026 are Danelle Erich Lee Rodelas of Bolbok, Allyza Joyce Lescano of Banay-Banay, Chloe Andrea Delos Santos of Marawoy, Tania Endozo of Munting Pulo, Frances Isabel Macatangay of Banay-Banay, Kate Danielle Morales of Sabang, Princess Lyka Virrey of Pinagkawitan, Felyciti Claire Marin of Tambo, Precious Fajardo of San Jose, and Ma. Erica Valenzuela of Tambo.
Each contender proudly carries the banner of their barangay as they prepare for the grand coronation night scheduled to be held on June 20, 2026 in celebration of Lipa City’s Cityhood Anniversary. The winners will serve as the official tourism ambassadors of Lipa City, promoting the city’s attractions, culture, and local pride in various engagements and events. They will also earn the opportunity to represent Lipa in national and regional pageants, opening doors to greater platforms and wider recognition. On the other hand, reigning titleholders Kurt Mikheal Aguilar of Bagong Pook and Joey Anne Chavez continue to inspire aspiring candidates through their achievements and dedication with Aguilar notably bringing pride to the city after securing the 1st Runner-Up title at Mister Friendship International 2025 held in Bangkok, Thailand. As anticipation builds toward coronation night, the people of Lipa City as well as guests and travelers can expect a celebration of beauty, culture, leadership, and tourism excellence through Mr. and Ms. Lipa Tourism 2026.
(With words by Arven Bravo, Lipa Status, and Ala Eh Lipa)
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DAZN Brings The World Of Robot Combat To Fans Worldwide With NHRL World Championship Pro Tour
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| (Image Source: DAZN Group/National Havoc Robot League) |
DAZN, the world’s leading sports entertainment platform, will bring the NHRL World Championship Pro Tour to fans worldwide, expanding its portfolio of innovative and fast-growing sports competitions. The multi-year agreement sees DAZN broadcast the National Havoc Robot League’s (NHRL) premier international series starting from this month. The NHRL World Championship Pro Tour features elite robotics teams competing in high-intensity, head-to-head robot fighting events.
The 2026 season on DAZN kicked off with the first round of the NHRL World Championship Pro Tour last May 16, 2026 featuring many of the top-ranked fighting robots in the world. Further rounds are scheduled for this summer and autumn, with the Tour Finals planned for December. All NHRL World Championship Pro Tour events will be available for fans to watch for free on DAZN. Founded in the US, the NHRL has developed into a leading international platform for competitive robot fighting. The league showcases engineering innovation, strategic design, and fast-paced entertainment, attracting a rapidly expanding global audience. Havoc Robotics CEO Kelly Biderman said, “Robot fighting is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and NHRL has built the social media powerhouse behind it, driving billions of views each year. Our competitors are among the best engineers in the world, and the result is a sport audiences simply can’t look away from. DAZN is the final piece: a full media ecosystem that unlocks our flagship broadcasts at the Pro World Championships, now streaming to the biggest sports audience in the world – who are about to discover their next favorite sport.”
DAZN Group CEO Shay Segev said, “DAZN is committed to supporting emerging sports that combine innovation, skill, and passionate fan communities. Robot fighting is a compelling example of how sport and technology can come together to create new forms of entertainment. By partnering with the National Havoc Robot League, we are giving this growing sport a global stage and making it accessible to fans everywhere.” DAZN continues to broaden its extensive multi-sport portfolio by bringing new formats to fans around the world. NHRL content will be available across DAZN’s supported devices, allowing viewers to follow every stage of the championship season.
