Eastern Champions Sustainability with First Gen Partnership to Power Makati HQ and Key Tech Sites with Renewable Energy

Renewable energy (RE) utilization of Eastern Communications (Eastern Comms) across its offices and operations centers increases from 2% to 10%, marking a significant and measurable milestone in environmental performance and operational reliability.

The boost in RE use comes as Eastern Comms completes its transition to geothermal energy, following a strategic partnership with First Gen Corporation (First Gen).

Through this partnership, First Gen will supply geothermal energy to power the telco provider’s Makati headquarters and key Technical Operations Centers (TOCs), reinforcing the Eastern Comms’ view that future-ready digital infrastructure must be supported by clean, resilient energy.

“This partnership represents a clear step forward in how we power our operations,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-coordinator of Eastern Comms. “By integrating geothermal energy into key facilities, we are reinforcing the resilience of our core infrastructure. Sustainability, for us, is directly linked to service continuity and long-term performance.”

The geothermal energy is sourced from facilities in Leyte, reinforcing the role of indigenous renewable resources in securing the country’s energy future. For Eastern Comms, the partnership ensures that critical network facilities—those that keep enterprises connected—are backed by stable, dependable power while also lowering carbon emissions.

The transition is enabled by the government’s Retail Competition Open Access (RCOA) program, which allows large electricity consumers to directly contract with power suppliers. Through RCOA, Eastern Comms is able to make deliberate energy choices that align with its long-term sustainability strategy while strengthening efficiency across its facilities.

“Increasing our renewable utilization is a concrete milestone. Together with the 222 kW solar capacity already supporting our Makati HQ and TOCs, our adoption of renewable geothermal energy strengthens our ability to operate efficiently while aligning with national climate priorities and the broader shift toward a circular economy,” said Jaeson Evangelista, Co-coordinator of Eastern Comms.

The renewable energy shift forms part of the telco provider’s ongoing infrastructure modernization initiatives, which include intelligent automation upgrades, energy-efficient systems, and phased disaster resilience projects designed to fortify its facilities and core network. These investments reflect the company’s 2026 direction, “Dare To Soar,” anchored on innovation, reliability, and responsible growth.

As Eastern Communications advances its “Dare To Soar” direction, the partnership with First Gen demonstrates how digital innovation and sustainability are becoming increasingly interconnected. Powering critical facilities with renewable energy is a strategic move to build a more resilient, future-ready network.

To learn more about Eastern Communications and their upcoming partnerships, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Embrace the City’s Pulse with Citadines Living

Manila, Philippines, February 7, 2024 - As travel and hospitality continue to evolve, Citadines emerges as a haven for those seeking a genuine city living experience, blending comfort and convenience seamlessly. The brand invites you to embark on an urban adventure, so you don’t just visit the city, you get to live it and explore infinite possibilities. 

Citadines: Fostering the Love For Cities

More than just a place to stay, Citadines embodies a lifestyle crafted for guests in search of a home away from home. With a global presence, Citadines stands out by creating a space where comfort, convenience, and style come together for the love of cities. 

Citadines adds its unique charm to prominent destinations through various properties in the Philippines, including Citadines Bay City Manila, Citadines Salcedo Makati, Citadines Millennium Ortigas Manila, Citadines Cebu City, Citadines Amigo Iloilo, Citadines Roces Quezon City, and upcoming locations like Citadines Bacolod City (opening on March 2024) and Citadines Paragon Davao (opening on December 2024).

Each location acts as a gateway for exploration, providing convenient entry to corporate offices, entertainment districts, dining venues, and vibrant shopping centers. Whether it's the dynamic streets of Makati City or the business hub of Quezon City, Citadines creates the perfect backdrop for a fully engaging urban adventure.

Citadines Benavidez Makati: A Modern Oasis

Citadines Benavidez Makati blends modernity and comfort with its 207 meticulously designed units, ranging from the cozy Studio Deluxe to the expansive Two-Bedroom Premier. Guests are welcomed into contemporary interiors featuring fully equipped kitchens, plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and state-of-the-art flat-screen TVs. The property's unique charm extends beyond its physical spaces as a dedicated team of "Citazens," local experts ready to unveil the city's hidden gems, are available to help guests through their stay. 

Culinary delights await at Catalogue, the property’s all-day dining restaurant, offering a tantalizing fusion of local and international cuisines. With a thoughtfully curated menu spanning various regions and cultures, Catalogue elevates the dining experience, contributing to the overall sense of comfort and sophistication at Citadines Benavidez Makati. The rooftop swimming pool and fitness corner with panoramic city views further enhance the urban oasis, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

Citadines Roces Quezon City: A Haven in the Former Capital

In the pulsating corners of Metro Manila’s largest city and former capital, Citadines Roces Quezon City takes center stage with 185 thoughtfully appointed apartments - from spacious studios to comfortable two-bedroom units. Each space is curated with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for every urban explorer.

The interiors of each apartment incorporate clean lines, contemporary furnishings, and a harmonious color palette to create an ambiance that is both inviting and stylish. The design inspiration draws from the pulsating rhythm of urban life, with nods to the rich cultural heritage of Quezon City. Subtle touches echo the vibrant art scene and historical landmarks, creating a seamless blend of modernity and tradition within the living spaces.

Citadines Roces Quezon City takes pride in its array of facilities designed to elevate the overall experience. The fitness center, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, invites guests to maintain their health and well-being even amidst a busy city schedule. The swimming pool, residents' lounge, and rooftop bar with panoramic city skyline views become extensions of the living space, providing opportunities for relaxation and socialization. Whether it's a refreshing dip in the pool, casual conversations in the residents' lounge, or sipping a drink while enjoying the cityscape from the rooftop bar, each amenity adds a layer of richness to the urban living experience.

Loven Ramos, Director of Brand and Marketing of The Ascott Limited Philippines, expressed the brand's vision: “Our goal is to curate spaces that inspire a genuine connection with the heartbeat of cities, creating an environment where guests not only reside but truly thrive in the love for the dynamic energy, cultural richness, and endless possibilities each city holds. With Citadines, we aim to cultivate a deep appreciation that transforms stays into love stories with the cities we call home.”

Both Citadines Benavidez Makati and Citadines Roces Quezon City embody the brand's commitment to fostering love for cities, inviting guests on business or leisure trips to not just visit the city but live in it - whether it’s for a night, a week, a month, or a lifetime.

Manila Wrestling Federation Takes Modern Pinoy Wrestling to A Higher Level in “MWF: Road to Fate 2023”

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila Wrestling Federation (MWF) continues to further establish its status as the Philippines’ premier professional wrestling entertainment brand as it delights the fans with its annual spectacle MWF: Road To Fate 2023 – featuring a roster of 100% Filipino wrestling stars. The already jam-packed event is set to take place at Power Mac Center Spotlight PMCS Blackbox in Circuit Makati on August 20, Sunday.

MWF: Road To Fate 2023 is also set to debut on national television as part of MWF’s weekly series “Aksyonovela TV”, which airs on RJ’s Rock of Manila TV (available on SkyCable Channel 229, or rescan digital TV boxes) and its social media channels (Facebook and YouTube) every Monday night at 9 PM. 

Headlining this year’s extravaganza is the conclusion to the storied rivalry between MWF founder Robin Sane and current MWF Pinoy Wrestling Champion Fabio Makisig. Sane was MWF’s inaugural champion in 2018, defeating Makisig in a knockdown-drag-out war, before losing the title to Southeast Asian wrestling scene pioneer Ho Ho Lun the following year. Long-time fans are heavily anticipating the championship rematch between two of the federation’s greatest rivals. 

Among the other marquee matches set for Road To Fate 2023 is the volatile tag team match between the brand’s top villains – “Mr. Philippine Wrestling” Jake De Leon and Main Maxx (Oro, Plata, Mata) and the avenging heroes, the “Queen of Philippine Wrestling” Crystal and the returning Pinoy Strong Style pioneer “Danger” Rex Lawin. MWF’s resident televangelist, the fan-favorite Bro. Jomar Liwanag of Bahay ng Liwanag is also set to prove his otherworldly powers in a handicap match against his former minister Kaibigang Aaron and his lovable superhero friends El Katipunero and Super P. 

MWF: Road To Fate 2023 also features MWF mainstays including Nigel “Suplex” San Jose, Bro.  Benny Soriano, CJ Serafin, Danny Zamora, Joya, Dabid Ravena, Migs Valdez, Razael, Ken Cifer, Chelsea Marie, Isaiah Valencia, Kanto “Kilabot” Terror and Tarek El Tayech, Veronica Shannon, Tricia Ligaia, Mr. Sy and Kurt Jimenez, as well as MWF trainee/aspirant Pink Shirt. 

Tickets to MWF: Road To Fate 2023 are available now at Ticket2Me. The event will also be later uploaded in episodic form in MWF’s fan-exclusive channel on Gank. For more details, visit MWF’s social channels on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X.  

Manila Wrestling Federation Takes Circuit Makati by Storm in Jam-Packed “MWF: Republika 2023”

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila Wrestling Federation (MWF), the country’s rapidly growing athletic entertainment brand, held its most successful show MWF: Republika 2023 last Sunday, April 30. The sold-out crowd at the Power Mac Center Spotlight PMCS Blackbox in Circuit Makati were taken on a thrilling ride of athletic feats as well as explosively entertaining stories and colorful, larger-than-life characters.

The event was centered on the return of multi-time WWE Cruiserweight and Tag Team Champion, the “Japanese Buzzsaw” TAJIRI, who faced MWF’s resident religious zealot Bro. Jomar Liwanag in a breath-taking back-and-forth bout. A three-way showcasing international all-Pinoy talents – featuring “Mr. Philippine Wrestling” Jake De Leon, “The Queen of Philippine Wrestling” Crystal and Yappy from Ice Ribbon Japan also wowed the packed house, with Crystal surviving the gruelling match.

The MWF: Republika 2023 main event between Nigel “Suplex” San Jose and current champion Fabio Makisig for the MWF Pinoy Wrestling Championship proved that the MWF in-ring talent can hold their own in an event of international calibre. Makisig retained his championship before being attacked by former MWF champion Robin Sane, setting up another potential fiery encounter between the two.

New up-and-coming Pinoy wrestling stars also had breakout moments, as Ken Cifer was named the next contender for the coveted “Jeepney Belt” after a hard-hitting, brutal match against St. John Martin. MWF’s controversy-magnet Migs Valdez also had one of the night’s most entertaining segments, sharing the ring with Pinoy Wrestling pioneer Macho Franco. Main Maxx, MWF’s current chief of security, is in for a dilemma with the return of his former manager, Mr. Sy.

MWF: Republika’s stacked and solid match card featured MWF favorites including El Katipunero with Super P, Aaron Liwanag with Bro. Benny Soriano, CJ Serafin, Danny Zamora, Dabid Ravena, Isaiah Valencia and Pink Shirt, Chelsea Marie and MWF newcomer Joya. The event will later be uploaded in episodic form in MWF’s fan-exclusive channel on Gank.

MWF’s next event will be held on June 4, Sunday, at the Quezon Memorial Circle Events Place in Quezon City, titled “MWF Aksyonovela TV Special: Lights, Kamera, Aksyon!” For more details, visit www.manilawrestling.com.

Wrestling Legend TAJIRI Set to Boost Manila Wrestling Federation’s Roster in Annual Extravaganza “MWF: Republika 2023”

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila Wrestling Federation (MWF), the country’s rapidly growing athletic entertainment brand, once again delights Pinoy Wrestling fans with its annual spectacle MWF: Republika 2023 – boosted by the presence of WWE and ECW legend TAJIRI. The event will be held at Power Mac Center Spotlight PMCS Blackbox in Circuit Makati on April 30, Sunday, at 4:30 PM. 

The “Japanese Buzzsaw” TAJIRI, who has won the WWE Cruiserweight Championship in multiple occasions as well as Tag Team Championship runs with fellow wrestling superstars Eddie Guerrero and William Regal, is set to compete in the ring with one of MWF’s rising stars – Bro. Jomar Liwanag. Liwanag has entertained the MWF fan community since his wrestling debut in 2017, via portraying his unforgettable comedic-yet-sinister character of a Pinoy religious zealot and cult leader. 

Also headlining this year’s MWF: Republika is current MWF Pinoy Wrestling Champion Fabio Makisig, who will be defending the unique “Jeepney Belt” against fellow MWF pillar Nigel “Suplex” San Jose. Makisig has faced TAJIRI one-on-one twice in 2019 and had scored a win over the Japanese wrestling legend in their second encounter. 

A special triple threat showcase is also set to bolster the event’s already high-profile line-up of matches – featuring “Mr. Philippine Wrestling” Jake De Leon and the “Queen of Philippine Wrestling” Crystal, who will be tested in the ring by Fil-Japanese wrestler Yappy from Japanese wrestling promotion Ice Ribbon. 

MWF: Republika also features fan favorites such as El Katipunero with Super P, Aaron Liwanag with Bro.  Benny Soriano, CJ Serafin, Danny Zamora, Dabid Ravena, Khayl Sison, Migs Valdez with Frankie Thurteen, Razael, Ken Cifer, St. John Martin, Robin Sane and Main Maxx. Surprise special guests may also appear, alongside newcomers led by Chelsea Marie and Isaiah Valencia.

Tickets to MWF: Republika are available now at Ticket2Me. The event will later be uploaded in episodic form in MWF’s fan-exclusive channel on Gank. For more details, visit www.manilawrestling.com, or MWF’s social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter). Be part of the conversation by using MWF’s official hashtag: #PinoyWrestlingTayo. 

PH Exports Grow for Second Straight Month in February

MAKATI – Amidst a backdrop of the surging COVID-19 pandemic, Philippine merchandise exports grew by 2.8% in February 2020 to USD5.4B from USD5.3B in the same period last year, based on the preliminary Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data. Semiconductors were still the top export product, comprising 75.7% of electronics exports and 41.7% of all merchandise exports.

This was the second consecutive month of positive growth, after the 9.7% growth in January 2020. Cumulatively, merchandise exports grew by 6.1% in the first two months of 2020 to USD11.2B from USD10.5B in the same period a year ago.

The Department of Trade and Industry-Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB) pointed out that for February, six of the top 10 export products recorded positive growth. These were other manufactured goods (45.0%); fresh bananas (29.6%); other mineral products (13.2%); machinery and transport equipment (11.7%); gold (6.0%); and electronic products (3.4%). Majority of export products were still electronic products at 55.1% while non-electronics made up the remaining 44.9%

After posting a 15.8% increase in January, electronics exports grew again in February, albeit at a slower pace, by 9.7%. This was a lot better than the negative 0.5% growth recorded in the same period last year. Meanwhile, exports of non-electronic products rose from a 24-month decline with a 2.0% growth to USD5.0B year-to-date (YTD) from USD4.9B in the same period last year.

In terms of markets, exports grew in seven out of the top 10 markets of the Philippines. Exports to Malaysia grew the biggest at 28.5% YTD to USD340M. This was followed by South Korea with an 18.9% growth to USD490M and Thailand with a 15.3% growth to USD500M.

Exports in the top three markets, namely China, including Hong Kong; Japan; and the US also grew in February, albeit more modestly. These countries made up 57.3% of all Philippine merchandise exports in the review period.

The Philippines was also in the five countries among 11 Asian trade-oriented economies with positive YTD growth. The country ranked 3rd in YTD and 9th in year-on-year (YOY) exports.

However, the stellar performer was Vietnam, which posted a 50% YOY export growth, according to Bloomberg, it can be attributed to shipments of new Samsung S20 phones.

On the other hand, Chinese exports declined the most at 17.3% in February, while it is battling with the COVID-19 pandemic.

In another development, the DTI-EMB is conducting an online survey to PH exporters on the "Impact of COVID on Your Export Business". The survey seeks to learn and understand the impact of COVID-19 on the exporters' businesses, with the results to be used as basis for a data-driven recovery plan to be crafted by DTI-EMB for the Philippine export sector.

Experience a New Joy in Soy with This Newest Drink Craze from Singapore

Filipinos always get excited when there’s a new drink in town. “Milk tea is life” has been the new mantra but wWhat if we tell you that there’s a new alternative to this drink that is equally delicious and addictive, but much healthier?

This September 25, discover a new kind of joy by well-loved Singaporean soy milk brand , Jollibean opens its first pop-up store in Greenbelt, Makati City. Renamed for the international market as Joybean, this new concept offers premium yet affordable, guilt-free, soy-based products with milk tea options to cater to our fellow Filipinos’ love for the popular Asian drink. It’s the freshest Singaporean concept in the Philippines to join BreadTalk, TWG, and Toast Box (now Nanyang).

Brought to the Philippine shores by Joybean Food Masters Corp., the launch of this newest milk craze was spearheaded by its President, Norman Raquel, the Chairman of the Board, Frederick T. Siy, and the Senior Vice President of Jollibean Foods Pte Ltd., Luis Daniel.

Healthier, vegan-friendly option for milk tea lovers

Joybean reveals its own take on this popular drink by introducing a milk tea line exclusive to the Philippine market.

“We’re aware that Filipinos are huge fans of milk tea, so we’re delighted to bring a soy-based milk tea line to cater to this craving but with a healthier, lactose-free version that has less sugar and calories,” said Shannen Francisco, Assistant Brand Marketing Manager of Joybean Philippines.

Some of their recommended flavors are the Brown Sugar Soy Milk, Chocolate Joy Freeze, and Wintermelon Milk Tea. They taste just like your usual favorite drink, but with more health benefits. The drinks are made of soybean milk which is plant-based, and is a good source of protein so you won’t have to worry about compromising your diet. They are made of Grade A, non-GMO, and single variety IP Canadian soy beans. This makes it all vegan-friendly and do not contain any animal or animal by-products.

Apart from promoting hearty options, each drink comes with a sustainable straw made of bamboo, sugar cane, and coffee to help the environment. The food packaging is also eco-friendly and biodegradable. Joybean encourages its customers to help Mother Earth one sip at a time.

A full menu of freshly-made, on-the-go snacks to match your drink

Aside from the array of delighful drinks, Joybean comes with flavorful snacks to match your chosen drink.
You can order delicious pancakes in three variants; crispy, the Mee Chiang Kueh (traditional turnover pancake), and mini pancake rolls. They also have pudding and bean curd on the menu which one can enjoy individually or as a group with friends and family.

“Everything is prepared fresh at the start of each day, and Joybean ensures these snacks contain no preservatives and no food colorings. They complement well with our soy milk drinks, plus they’re easy to consume and especially for the millennials who are in full swing.”

To take part of this new soy experience, drop by at Joybean’s booth located at Greenbelt 3 (across Seattle’s Best Coffee) and discover the new joy in soy! The second pop-up store will soon open in SM Fairview later this year.

UMak Student and Crowd Favorite Crowned as Miss Makati 2019

An 18-year old student of the University of Makati (UMak), Micah Beatrice Santos from Barangay West Rembo, has been crowned Miss Makati 2019, besting 23 other candidates at the Coronation Night held Friday at the Makati Coliseum.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay said the newly-crowned Miss Makati 2019 impressed the judges with her striking beauty, self-confidence and intelligence, which have made her an ideal partner of the city government in promoting a “smart, sustainable and future-ready Makati”.

“Miss Makati 2019 has risen above the challenges she has faced and turned these into opportunities to grow and become a stronger and better person. I am confident that she will be able to fulfil her crucial role in accelerating Makati’s transformation as a Smart City,” Mayor Abby said.

The mayor said Miss Makati 2019 will serve as the city’s ambassador of goodwill while inspiring fellow young Makatizens to strive for excellence and take an active part in city-building, as defined by the 2019 pageant theme, “Creating the Future Now”.

Santos is also the current titleholder of Miss UMak 2019. She stated that her advocacy is to campaign against bullying, having been a victim of bullies herself, and vowed to help fellow victims overcome adversity.

Mayor Abby, accompanied by Miss Makati 2018 Karla O’Hara and Congressman Luis Campos, crowned Miss Makati 2019.

Mayor Abby also congratulated the other winners, Miss Makati Tourism 2019 Kristina Cassandra Bahaj and Miss Makatizen 2019 Venice Kayla Barrameda.

“Both Miss Makati Tourism 2019 and Miss Makatizen 2019 have shown that they are up to the task of helping us promote innovations that will empower and inspire the citizens of Makati,” she stated.

Bahaj, 22, a resident of Barangay Sta. Cruz, said that she was motivated to join the pageant by her personal experience with taking care of a family member suffering from dementia, her own grandmother. This led to her advocacy for making Makati the first “dementia-friendly city” in the country.

Barrameda, 21-year old resident of Barangay Guadalupe Viejo, who also won as Miss CEU 2016 at Centro Escolar University, is an advocate of good oral health. Her goal is to promote oral health by providing dental missions for the less privileged to give back to the city.

Miss Makati 2019 took home P200,000 cash prize, a crown, a sash, a gift pack from Home of Beauty Color (HBC), and P50,000 worth of gift certificates from iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle.

Miss Makati Tourism 2019, on the other hand, won a cash prize of P150,000, a crown, a sash, an HBC gift pack, and P50,000 worth of gift certificates from iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle. Miss Makatizen 2019 bagged P100,000 cash prize, a crown, a sash, an HBC gift pack, and P50,000 worth of gift certificates from iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle.

Bahaj was also named “Miss Air Asia” while Barrameda won the titles “Miss iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle” and “Miss Balmain”. The title “Miss Congeniality” was won by Gianelle Anne Balaton, 22, of Barangay Valenzuela, “Miss Photogenic” went to Micah Beatriz Santos; and “Best in Long Gown” was Renee Rose Tirones, 23, of Barangay San Lorenzo.

Now on its 29th year, the Miss Makati 2019 coronation night was hosted by Mikael Daez and Issa Litton. The pageant was part of the month-long celebration of the 349th Founding Anniversary of Makati with the theme, “Makati 2025: Fasttracking Progress”.

The board of judges in this year’s pageant was chaired by Albert Andrada, designer; together with Sheila Romero, CEO Air Asia; Kate Pagkalinawan, CEO iSkin Aesthetic Lifestyle; George Royeca, CEO/owner of Angkas; Franco Laurel, singer and actor; Ruffa Gutierrez, actress and beauty queen; Tim Yap, host and media practitioner; and designers Anthony Ramirez and Paul Cabral.

Entertainment numbers were provided by Air Dance, Nexus (Makati Dance Challenge 2018 Champions), and balladeer Michael Pangilinan.

The other 21 finalists included Charlene Marie Inonog (Kasilawan); Stephanie Isabelle Aquino (Poblacion); Sophia Michaela Leanne Aguado (Pio del Pilar); Alliaa Nicole Diputado (Tejeros); Gianelle Anne Balaton (Valenzuela); Patricia Rose Pangan (San Isidro); Bianca Gabrielle Abaya (Poblacion); Lailah Guiuan (Pembo); Kaoru Aseana Pimentel (South Cembo); Jan Karen Esguerra (Bel-Air);

Monica Acuno (West Rembo); Hannah Patricia Beatrice Kristiansen (Northside); Desiree Harriet Alyanna Gamboa (Guadalupe Viejo); Charlyn Joyce Barrientos (Southside); Ma. Anna Clarisse Villavicencio (San Antonio); Marie Gabrielle Brillantes (Poblacion); Princess Vinia Putulin (South Cembo); Renee Rose Tirones (San Lorenzo); Elliah Kate Nicolas (East Rembo); Jeanne Pauline Suplente (Guadalupe Viejo); and Erika Mae Salvador (Comembo).

The candidates were adjudged with the following criteria: Intelligence, 40 percent; beauty, 40 percent; and personality, 20 percent.