Why We Need More Philippine Book Festivals—And Why They Should Happen Quarterly

Because one weekend isn’t enough to celebrate a lifetime love of reading and to give Filpino authors the spotlight they deserve. 

If you’ve ever been to a book festival, you know the feeling. That warm, giddy mix of excitement and comfort as you walk through rows of books, bump into favorite authors, and discover titles you didn’t even know you needed. You go home with a bag full of stories—and a heart full of inspiration.

And then it ends.

One weekend. Once a year.

For a country as rich in stories and talent as the Philippines, that’s just not enough.

Stories Deserve More Space

Our country has so many voices, but most of them don’t get the spotlight they deserve. With only one major book festival each year, things get rushed. There’s not enough time to explore niche genres like Philippine mythology (my personal favorite), discover indie authors, or dive deep into new releases from small publishers.

If we had book festivals every quarter, we could slow things down. Give more writers the chance to shine. Let more readers actually sit, listen, learn—and fall in love with books all over again.

More Than a Trend—It Should Be a Habit

Reading is a habit, not a holiday.

Book festivals create moments where people remember how fun and meaningful it is to read. But imagine if we had four of these moments in a year. That’s four chances to build excitement, grow young readers, and keep the book-loving energy going all year long.

Families could make it a tradition. Schools could time their reading programs around it. Communities could come together more often—not just for book sales but for shared stories.

Our Local Creators Need Consistent Support

Quarterly festivals mean local authors and illustrators get more visibility and more sales. They get to launch books on their own timeline instead of waiting for a once-a-year slot. And they get to connect with readers in a more personal, sustained way.

As someone who has worked in media, marketing, and content creation for years, I’ve seen how regular exposure can make or break a creative’s journey. It’s not about viral hits—it’s about showing up repeatedly. Quarterly events give them the space to do that.

Stories Should Travel, Too

Book festivals shouldn't just live in Metro Manila. Our stories come from every corner of the country, so our celebrations should, too. Let’s bring these events to Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Baguio, GenSan—everywhere. A rotating quarterly schedule means different regions get their turn, and more people can join.

No one should be left out of the magic of books.

Let’s Keep the Stories Alive

Books are more than paper and ink—they’re part of our identity. Our history, our dreams, our healing. Philippine mythology, poetry, essays, and fiction all carry pieces of who we are. And when we gather around books, we’re not just reading—we’re remembering, rebuilding, and reimagining.

This is why I believe we need more Philippine Book Festivals. Not just once a year. Not just when there’s a budget. But regularly. Purposefully. Proudly.

Let’s create more space for stories. Let’s make room for more voices.

Let’s make book festivals a part of every Filipino’s year—every single quarter. 

From Hugot to Hustle: The Real Story Behind Real Talk Darbs

If you've ever stumbled upon a video that made you laugh, reflect, and rethink your entire marketing strategy all at once—chances are, you’ve just met Real Talk Darbs.

Darbie Kim Estrebilla didn’t start out as a content king. He was an OFW once—far from the lights, cameras, and billion-view milestones. But grit has a funny way of rewriting people’s stories. And in Darbie’s case, it wrote one heck of a plot twist.

These days, he’s known for more than just his hugot lines (though let’s be real, they’re iconic). He’s a video marketing powerhouse. A strategist who’s helped his students rake in over ₱100 million in revenue. A disruptor who sold a pen for ₱70,000—because he understood something most people don’t: it’s never just about the product; it’s about the story behind it.

His wit? Sharp. His wisdom? Sharper. Whether he’s teaching how to hook viewers in three seconds or joking that "Focus on the seminar first. Do not text them yet... they will just hurt you anyway," Darbie knows how to keep it real—and keep people listening.

But what I admire most is that behind the larger-than-life online persona is a man who recharges in silence. An introvert who found his voice in a noisy world. A gamer who might’ve chosen e-sports if content creation hadn’t chosen him first.

Of course, the road hasn’t been smooth. He’s weathered bashers, content slumps, and reinvention after reinvention. From love advice to trending topics to finally finding his niche in video marketing—it’s been a journey. And yet, he’s never lost sight of the mission: to help Filipino entrepreneurs dream bigger, do better, and build billion-peso businesses through the power of video.

Now, with the 336-square-meter House Creatives HQ almost ready, new training programs on the horizon, and a massive 3,000-person live event set for December—you’d think he’s reached the peak.

But if you ask me?

Real talk: Darbie’s just getting started. 

Chef Kirk Ngo Showcases Culinary Innovation at WoFex PH with Monin and Technolux

Chef Kirk Ngo, the visionary behind Community Kitchen PH, recently captivated audiences on the inaugural day of World Food Expo (WoFex) Philippines at the World Trade Center. In collaboration with Technolux and Monin Philippines, Chef Kirk showcased his culinary prowess through a series of innovative product demonstrations that highlighted his expertise and creativity.

During the event, Chef Kirk prepared two delectable dishes that seamlessly integrated Monin's premium syrups:

1. Maple Bacon Egg Sandwich – This dish featured Monin Maple Flavor Syrup, which was used to glaze the bacon, imparting a rich, sweet depth that elevated the classic breakfast sandwich.

2. Ham and Cheese Croissant with Mediterranean Salad – Chef Kirk crafted a Peach Dijon Spread using Monin Peach Fruit Mix, adding a fruity zest to the croissant. The accompanying Mediterranean salad was dressed with a Citrus Vinaigrette made from Monin Sweet and Sour Syrup, providing a refreshing and tangy complement.

These culinary creations were expertly baked using a Technolux Oven, underscoring the synergy between quality ingredients and state-of-the-art kitchen equipment.

Chef Kirk's culinary journey is both diverse and impressive. His professional experience includes a tenure in Singapore, where he honed his skills in a dynamic and multicultural food scene. Upon returning to the Philippines, he contributed significantly to the culinary landscape at Flatiron, a renowned establishment in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

Beyond his roles in various kitchens, Chef Kirk is an innovative pastry chef. He gained acclaim for creating the Too Much Chocolate Chip Cookie, a palm-sized delight that was honored as the Best Cookie of 2020. His inventive spirit also led to the development of the Cookie Cake, which blends the beloved textures of cookies and cake, and the Brazo de Mercedes Calamansi Cupcake, a fusion that marries traditional Filipino flavors with contemporary dessert techniques.

Chef Kirk's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his establishment of Community Kitchen PH, a venture dedicated to delivering high-quality food crafted from the finest ingredients. This initiative reflects his commitment to fostering communal experiences through shared meals, embodying the philosophy that “great food is shared by a community.”

The collaboration with Monin Philippines and Technolux at WoFex PH highlights the mutual respect and trust between Chef Kirk and these esteemed brands. Monin, a globally recognized brand since 1912, is renowned for its premium flavorings used in cocktails, coffee, and culinary applications. Their partnership with Chef Kirk underscores their confidence in his ability to innovatively incorporate their products into his culinary creations. Similarly, Technolux, a leading provider of kitchen and laundry equipment, aligns with Chef Kirk's dedication to excellence, providing the advanced tools necessary to bring his gastronomic visions to life.

Chef Kirk Ngo's participation in WoFex PH, alongside industry leaders like Monin and Technolux, not only showcases his culinary talents but also reinforces his role as a trailblazer in the Philippine food scene. His relentless pursuit of innovation and quality continues to inspire both aspiring and seasoned chefs, solidifying his reputation as one of the country's most esteemed culinary figures. 

Mr. Big Pillow Supports Sleep Health In The Philippines on World Sleep Day

March 14, 2025, is World Sleep Day, and this year’s theme encourages us to “Make Sleep Health a Priority.” Mr. Big PIllow Philippines leads the charge and celebrates all things sleep and comfort.

The country’s top lifestyle influencers and opinion leaders gathered at the concourse of SM Makati last March 15 to get the lowdown on proper sleep health and be updated on Mr. Big’s products that promise to help us improve our collective sleep quotient.  

Decoding Comfort

Mr.Big Pillow is your armor against all forms of stress because it focuses on decoding and creating physical comfort by improving your sleep. They design pillows, mattresses, and other comfort tools based on human anthropometry data and sleep behavior. Their goal? To make products that are user-friendly, safe, and ergonomically comfortable.

The Ergo-Comfort Products For Better Sleep Health
Normal pillows are simply bed ornaments or bed givens, but the products of Mr. Big Pillow are ergonomic, comfortable, and scientifically designed for comfort and health. They support muscles, promote proper posture, ensure alignment, and are made with materials that create an ultra-comfortable micro-climate. 

Today, Mr. Big Pillow is celebrating World Sleep Day by putting its ergo-comfort products at the forefront of sleep expertise:

The Mr. Big Bodyscale Pillows come in various sizes based on the user's weight, height, and sleep posture. It fits well to the shape of the head and neck, and it’s firm enough for your head’s weight and shoulder width. Clients undergo a Best-Fit analysis through an app to find out the pillow recommendation best suited for them.

The Mr. Big Ortho-Series Pillows are self-adjustable pillows with high-precision curves and edges that snuggly fit your head, neck, and shoulders. They come with adjustable pads for a personalized fit.

The Mr. Big Latex Pillows are handmade by local farmers using material locally sourced. These latex pillows are made from sustainable plants.

The Mr. Big Travel Pillows are ergonomically designed to make you travel in comfort. They are made with 80% recycled materials.

The Mr. Big Body Pillows are soft body-sized pillows that contour to your body for complete side-sleeping support. You rest your arms, leg, torso, or hip on it to get ultimate support and feel more comfortable in your favorite sleeping position

Mr. Big Positioning Pillows are specially designed to support and align your spine and care for your overall posture if you have specific ailments. They can come in unique forms, like the Nine Pillow, which supports key parts of your body simultaneously, the Gerd Pillow, which comforts and elevates your upper body at an appropriate angle to mitigate the effect of acid reflux, and the Leg Pillow, which supports your thighs and knees, lessening the pressure on your knees and strain on your back muscles.

Mr. Big Pillow Is Expert- and Advocate-Approved
Osteopath Dr. JP Prado confirms the need to “Make Sleep Health a Priority.” Of the three pillars of health: exercise, nutrition, and sleep/recovery, sleep is the most important,” he says. “You can not eat food for over a week and live, just 3 days without sleep would already do permanent brain damage.” Dr. Prado adds that Mr. Big Pillows checks all the boxes of good quality pillows: “Not only do they have prescription sizing for bespoke comfort and custom neutral spine, but their fiber pillows are washable and can be disinfected preventing chronic rhinitis and sinus infection.”

Mr. Big Pillow brand ambassador Stephanie Zubiri is impressed with the technologies behind the bespoke comfort that Mr. Big ensures. Personally, she does not take sleep lightly, so Mr. Big Pillows' ergonomic offerings align perfectly with her lifestyle and needs. “As a side sleeper, my neck and hips always suffer. I often wake up with a stiff neck or have tension headaches  later in the day. Mr. Big pillows gives me the support I need to wake up feeling great and free from aches and pains!!”

Quality Sleep Is Now Within Reach
Finally, all Filipinos can sleep better with Mr. Big. In fact, an impressive collection of Mr. Big Pillow is already available in the country and soon, their other ergo-comfort line of products like their mattresses, duvets, and toppers will be available on Philippine shores, too, to provide ergo-comfort for Filipino sleepers everywhere. With proper sleep health, we can rest assured that Filipinos are getting the quality sleep we so need and deserve. 

Mr. Big Pillow is available in the following SM branches: Makati, Mall of Asia, Megamall, North Edsa, Las Pinas, Aura, Estancia, Cubao, Clark, Cebu, JMall, Bacolod and Lanang.  

Sustainable by Design: Ajinomoto Philippines Showcases its ‘Greenprint’ for the Future

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC Group) is steadfast in its commitment to sustainability as they celebrated their program milestones with key partners at a recently concluded media conference.

At the event, APC Group President Koichi Ozaki introduced the Ajinomoto Shared Value (ASV), highlighting the company’s sustainability programs aimed at reducing its environmental footprint by 50% and extending the healthy life expectancy of over 1 billion people by 2030.

“Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation recognizes the responsibility of how we impact the environment. Our ASV signifies our role is beyond providing Filipinos with key products that enhance taste in our food – it highlights our commitment to environmental stewardship” shared Mr. Ozaki.

In his keynote speech, APC Group Chief Sustainability Officer Ernie Carlos highlighted the company's key sustainability initiatives, showcasing the significant progress made since their activation. Through its partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions, the electricity requirements of APC factories – APF Bulacan and APF Cebu, are now being powered by 100% renewable energy, significantly lowering their Scope 2 carbon emissions which prevents around 5,000MT CO2e emissions per year.

In collaboration with FAST Logistics and MOBER Philippines, APC Group is making strides in green logistics with one (1) 100% electric tractor head with 40-footer container van for warehouse transfers and a 100% electric 4-wheeler van for product deliveries.

Beyond renewable energy, APC Group is actively addressing food loss and industrial waste. This includes donating edible food waste to food advocacy group Scholars of Sustenance, upcycling residual food waste into animal feeds, transitioning to sustainable packaging, and repurposing single-use plastics through the SariCycle® program.

“Sustainability is an integral part of our corporate philosophy. It represents our pledge to drive meaningful change through sustainable, strategic partnerships, and responsible business practices to create a future where economic growth and environmental stewardship coexist,” said Mr. Carlos.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation underscores its dedication to a future where sustainability and economic growth go hand in hand. The organization remains committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that every initiative contributes to long-term positive change.

For more information on APC’s  sustainability initiatives, visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/. 

The Manila Hotel Wins Best Heritage Hotel Award

The Manila Hotel, the country’s first premier hotel, has once again solidified its legendary status by receiving the prestigious Best Heritage Hotel award from Tatler Best Philippines 2025. This accolade, part of Tatler Philippines’ newly refined Tatler Best guide, recognizes the hotel’s steadfast commitment to preserving its storied past while delivering the true Filipino hospitality it is known for.

Tatler Best is known for its discerning selection of the country’s finest establishments, offering a sophisticated and detailed guide to top-tier hospitality and dining. The Best-in-Class awards for hotels recognize outstanding performance and enduring impact over the past year, making The Manila Hotel’s win a testament to its lasting excellence.

Steeped in history, The Manila Hotel has long been a witness to pivotal moments in Philippine history, having hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and industry leaders. Its storied halls echo with the narratives of those who have shaped the nation, making it a living landmark of heritage and grandeur. 

 “We are honored to be recognized by Tatler Philippines as the Best Heritage Hotel for 2025. This award is a testament to The Manila Hotel’s unwavering commitment to preserving its rich legacy while providing exceptional service. We are immensely grateful for the guidance of our president, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. and the visionary leadership of our board of directors, whose dedication has enabled this remarkable milestone possible," said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing, who received the award on behalf of the hotel. 

Beyond its rich historical significance, The Manila Hotel remains a benchmark of luxury and Filipino hospitality, offering a carefully curated selection of experiences. These include historical tours of Rizal Park, Intramuros, the National Museums, and more, as well as the Heritage Museum, which features the hotel’s captivating historical photos and archives. The hotel also maintains an Art Gallery that celebrates Filipino creativity, alongside dining experiences that pay homage to local culinary traditions.

As The Manila Hotel pays tribute to its illustrious past, it also looks toward the future, ensuring that every guest enjoys an unparalleled blend of history, luxury, and true Filipino hospitality—an institution where history lives on. 

Why More Homebuyers Are Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity

With a growing number of condominium developments in Metro Manila, homebuyers are becoming more discerning. Beyond location and price, many are now prioritizing quality, thoughtful design, and long-term value—a shift reshaping the real estate landscape.

A recent report by Colliers Philippines highlights that while residential supply is increasing, demand remains strong for developments that offer prime locations, high-quality construction, and premium amenities. Similarly, a 2024 study by Santos Knight Frank reveals that Filipino homebuyers are now placing greater emphasis on well-being, sustainability, and future-ready spaces—factors that go beyond the traditional considerations of size and price.

This evolving demand underscores why developments like Le Pont Residences by RLC Residences stand out. By prioritizing architectural excellence, premium craftsmanship, and lifestyle-driven features, Le Pont Residences appeals to discerning buyers looking for a home that offers more than just space—it delivers an elevated, future-proof living experience.

Beyond Space: The Appeal of Thoughtful Design

A key factor influencing homebuyers today is the desire for flexible, well-designed living spaces that support modern lifestyles. With hybrid work now the norm, homes are no longer just places to rest—they must also function as workspaces, wellness hubs, and personal retreats.

Le Pont Residences addresses this shift with expansive unit layouts designed for multi-functional living. High ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows enhance natural light and ventilation, creating a bright and airy ambiance. Loggias offer stunning city skyline views, fostering a sense of tranquility amid the urban landscape. These design elements not only improve daily living but also enhance property desirability and long-term investment value.

A Smarter Investment in the Long Run

In a dynamic real estate market, well-built and strategically located properties continue to appreciate in value. Le Pont Residences, situated in Bridgetowne Estate—an emerging business and lifestyle hub—benefits from sustained property value growth. Its integration of smart home features and sustainable building materials aligns with the increasing preference for future-ready homes.

Le Pont Residences has earned an EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) preliminary certification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Designed with eco-conscious living in mind, the development incorporates energy-efficient systems that lower electricity consumption, reducing utility costs for future residents. The use of eco-friendly materials ensures durability while minimizing environmental impact. Green spaces and landscaped areas provide a refreshing escape, promoting healthier living and improved well-being for homeowners.

With a focus on quality, design, and sustainability, Le Pont Residences presents a compelling investment opportunity—one that supports modern living while securing long-term value.

The Role of Exclusive Amenities

In the evolving Philippine real estate landscape, there is a notable shift in buyer preferences towards residential developments that offer wellness-focused amenities and holistic living environments. This trend reflects a discerning market seeking top-tier amenities and strong capital appreciation potential.

At Le Pont Residences, residents can experience a well-rounded lifestyle with hyper-sized pools designed for relaxation and recreation. A well-equipped co-working space provides a conducive environment for remote work, while a state-of-the-art fitness center encourages a healthy, active lifestyle. At the top of the development, the exclusive function villas offer breathtaking city views, creating the perfect setting for social gatherings and unwinding after a long day. These amenities transform daily living into an exclusive, elevated experience, making Le Pont an attractive choice for those who value both comfort and convenience.

The Future of Homeownership

As homebuyers become more selective, the demand for high-quality, well-crafted homes is expected to rise. Rather than competing in an oversaturated market, developments like Le Pont Residences stand out by offering something more meaningful—a home designed to last, adapt, and enrich everyday life.

Discover what sets Le Pont Residences apart, schedule a visit at our showrooms, or visit rlcresidences.com for more information.

Le Pont Residences Unit with Loggia for extended living space

Le Pont Residences, soon to rise at Bridgetowne Destination Estate

Le Pont Residences' Golf Simulator


Le Pont Residences' Executive Function Villas

*All images are artist’s perspective

National Resilience Council’s Colloquium

The National Resilience Council (NRC) of the Philippines convened a diverse group of stakeholders for the event “From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations.” As a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, the NRC unites national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to advance the interconnected objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, and other global commitments.

Held as the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium, the event showcased progress and updates from participating cities and municipalities in the NRC’s Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative. This initiative enables corporations to move beyond disaster relief, investing in risk reduction through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs. By empowering local governments, AAC promotes collaborative efforts to build safer, more resilient communities.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for civil service organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress towards disaster resilience.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized, “Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez shared, “I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.”

At the National Resilience Council (NRC) Colloquium, local government units in the Adopt-a-City Initiative deliver a public narrative and take part in a panel discussion with leading resilience experts.

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool designed to strengthen local government capabilities in disaster resilience. Drawing from the NRC’s mission, the colloquium underscored the power of multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving transformative change. By bridging sectors and promoting innovation, the NRC and its partners are paving the way for a resilient Philippines.

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies - Philippine network, and the City Mayor of Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime Villanueva.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council (NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the realm of disaster risk resilience.