Filipino Chinese Community Mobilizes P10 Million in Aid for Typhoon Victims, Partners with QC Government and Operation Damayan for Relief Distribution

In an expression of solidarity and bayanihan, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) today August 28 announced the recent massive relief effort totaling Ten Million Pesos (P10,000,000.00) for communities across Luzon devastated by recent typhoons and floods.

The initiative, spearheaded by FFCCCII and the “Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation,” in collaboration with 30 major Filipino Chinese community associations, includes the distribution of essential goods and 50,000 packs of 5-kilo rice to affected cities and provinces, including Metro Manila, Baguio, Pangasinan, La Union, Tarlac, Bulacan, Pampanga, Olongapo, and Palawan.

A significant component of this nationwide effort is a targeted, city-wide relief operation in Quezon City, undertaken in partnership with the office of Mayor Joy Belmonte and the Philippine Star’s Operation Damayan led by President Miguel Belmonte. Others in attendance included District 2 Councilor Mikey Belmonte, District 4 Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte, Councilor Egay Yap, Councilor Raquel Malangen, Councilor Migz Suntay, Councilor Imee Rillo, Councilor Nanette Daza, Brgy. Chairman Dick Bañega and Operation Damayan team led by PhilStar HR head Emie Cruz. The Quezon City leg, which runs from August 28 to 29, 2025, involves the distribution of relief packs across six heavily impacted districts, representing a dedicated allocation of aid for the city's residents.

The partnership was formally launched at a ceremony held at the Mabuhay Court of Dr. Jose Jara Martinez High School in Barangay Tatalon, District 4. The event highlighted the turnover of a previous One Million Peso donation from FFCCCII to Operation Damayan and served as the kick-off for the two-day distribution drive.

Community Leader Emphasizes Unity in Recovery

Mr. Jeffrey Ng, Executive Vice-President of the FFCCCII, addressed the beneficiaries and officials, delivering a message of hope and unwavering support from the Filipino Chinese community.

"On behalf of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and the 'Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation,' it is both our duty and our profound honor to stand with you today," Mr. Ng stated. He emphasized the collaborative spirit of the mission, noting, "We are pleased to join hands with the PhilStar Operation Damayan and the Quezon City government in this vital mission of compassion."

Detailing the scale of the response, Mr. Ng shared, “Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, our Federation, together with 30 generous Filipino Chinese community associations and the members of our Foundation, have mobilized in the past weeks... donating over P10 Million Pesos worth of essential goods and food supplies.”

In his eloquent appeal to those affected, he offered words of encouragement: “Nakikiusap po kami sa inyo: Huwag po kayong mawawalan ng pag-asa. Ang hamon ng panahon ay malaki, ngunit mas malaki ang ating puso para magtulungan... Lubos po kaming naniniwala na ang pagkakaisa ang siyang sagot sa anumang pagsubok.” (We appeal to you: Please do not lose hope. The challenge we face is great, but our heart to help one another is greater... We firmly believe that unity is the answer to any trial.)


The relief operations in Quezon City are scheduled as follows:

August 28, 2025

· District 3: Brgy. Hall, Barangay Quirino 2B – 7:30 AM

· District 6: Parkway Village, Barangay Apolonio Samson – 11:00 AM

· District 1: Bthaba Court, Barangay Bahay Toro – 1:00 PM

· District 4: Mabuhay Court, Barangay Tatalon – 3:00 PM

· District 5: Dona Isaura Covered Court, Novaliches Proper – 4:30 PM


August 29, 2025

· District 2: SB Park, Barangay Batasan Hills – 4:00 PM

About the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII): The FFCCCII is the largest umbrella organization of Filipino Chinese business chambers and associations in the Philippines.For decades, it has been a steadfast partner in national development, engaging in numerous philanthropic, socio-civic, and humanitarian projects that embody the deep-rooted friendship and solidarity between the Filipino and Chinese communities. FFCCCII is led by President Victor Lim.


About Operation Damayan: Operation Damayan is the humanitarian advocacy arm of the Philippine Star,dedicated to providing immediate relief and assistance to Filipinos affected by natural disasters and calamities.

Sumakses na! Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki show how big dreams start at home

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid Empowers Content Creators in New ‘Sumakses’ Campaign

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid Hall of Famers Suzzysaur, Ninong Ry, and Maki

All it takes is a strong, reliable internet connection to turn once-distant dreams into everyday realities. From starting an online business to becoming the next internet sensation – more Filipinos today are exploring fresh opportunities, kids are learning beyond the classroom, and dreamers are sharing their talents with the world. 

This is exactly what PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid captures in its latest campaign “Hall of Fame”, spotlighting three of today’s favorite online personalities: food content creator Ninong Ry, gaming streamer Suzzysaur, and singer-songwriter Maki. 

As digital platforms continue to redefine careers in content creation, remote work, and entrepreneurship, the “Hall of Fame” campaign celebrates this transformation by highlighting real-life stories of Filipinos who turned their passion into profession, all powered by a strong and reliable fiber connection. 

Fiber Prepaid: Fast, Flexible, and Built for your Lifestyle

John Y. Palanca, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home, says, “Filipinos have the innate talent and drive to turn big dreams into reality. Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki show us that technology is at its best when it empowers and enables you to succeed in life. With PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, we’re giving Filipinos the speed, reliability and flexibility to pursue their passions – whether it’s producing online content, streaming music, learning or upskilling. All it takes is a reliable connection and the courage to begin. At PLDT Home, we are proud to be part of these journeys of success, which continue to inspire us to innovate every day.”

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid makes high-speed fiber internet more accessible than ever before – no contracts, no monthly bills. With a one-time fee of P999, which already comes with seven (7) days of unlimited fiber, users simply load when they need to and enjoy speeds of up to 50 Mbps. 

Sumakses with PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid. PLDT Home introduces its Fiber Prepaid Brand Ambassadors gaming streamer Suzzysaur, food content creator Ninong Ry, and singer-songwriter Maki together with Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home John Y. Palanca, Vice President and Head of Home Fixed Broadband Roy Victor E. Añonuevo, and Vice President and Head of Home Marketing Communications Ina Pineda.

Meet the Sumakses Stars

Ninong Ry, known for his hilarious no-frills cooking videos, became a household name by filming from his home kitchen during the pandemic lockdowns when everyone was stuck at home, craving content that could lift their spirits and ease their boredom.  

Before that, he was helping his mom run their poultry stall in Malabon -- until the palengke shut down, too. With nothing much to do at home, he began filming himself cooking and uploading videos online. The rest, as they say, is history.

“I was uploading content every day, consistently,” he says. “The biggest challenge in becoming a successful content creator isn’t just staying real or creative, it’s staying consistent.”

It didn’t take long before his down-to-earth style and easy-to-follow recipes earned him millions of fans who feel like they’re cooking right beside him. 

Suzzysaur found her niche by keeping it real: sharing honest stories a glimpse of her every day life, and gaming moments that her audience can relate to. Her content has evolved from the time she started out as a student wanting to pay her own way through college, to helping her parents finance her siblings’ education, too.     

With a pro-gamer husband, a four-year-old daughter, and a business to run, Suzzysaur’s home is always buzzing with online activities. She says, “My husband and I have our own setups in separate rooms because we both have meetings and streams. As a content creator, a CEO, and a mom, the kind of reliability and the customer support that PLDT Home provides help me fulfill my many roles.” 

Maki, on the other hand, won hearts with his soulful music—with content that began at home. 

“From recording in my bedroom to sharing my music online, I found the courage to chase my dream of becoming a recording artist,” he shares. What started as humble covers soon climbed the streaming charts—Maki’s journey is proof that sometimes, all it takes is talent and a strong WiFi signal. 

From cozy bedrooms to creative setups, these creators show how success can truly start at home—with a strong internet connection and a bold dream.

Just like Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki, you’ve got the power to shape your own success story. With PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, you can connect whenever you need to—just load when you want and keep your budget in check. Whether you're hitting the books, creating content, or working on your next big idea, PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid gives you the freedom to follow your passions and go all out, with no limits.

Ready for your Hall of Fame story? Watch here how Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki did it. 

‘CIA with BA’: Do non-regular employees have the right to complain to DOLE?

Workplace rights are often misunderstood, especially by young professionals who are just starting their careers. Many new employees believe they have little to no protection until they become regular workers. But is this really the case under Philippine labor law?

In the recent episode of “CIA with BA,” the Tanong ng Pilipino segment featured Luis from Sta. Mesa, Manila, a fresh graduate on his first job.

He asked: “Bagong graduate ako at first job ko itong trabaho ko ngayon. Totoo bang wala akong karapatang magsumbong sa DOLE kung hindi pa ako regular?”

Atty. Marian Cayetano addressed this misconception directly. She clarified: “Hindi po totoo na porke hindi kayo regular, hindi na kayo pwedeng magsumbong sa DOLE.”

She emphasized that all employees, regardless of status, are covered by labor protections.

“Para mas malinaw, lahat ng manggagawa, whether regular o hindi regular, may mga karapatan pong protektado ng ating batas,” she explained.

Among these rights are proper wages, overtime pay, protection against discrimination and harassment, and the assurance of a safe and healthy work environment.

“Isa sa mga karapatan na ‘to, of course, ‘yung tamang pagpapasweldo, or dapat nababayaran sila ng OT (overtime), or hindi sila pwedeng madiskrimina o ma-harass sa kanilang trabaho, or dapat safe and healthy ‘yung working environment nila,” she added.

With that, Atty. Marian underscored that probationary workers should never feel powerless. “So ‘pag ganon po, hindi po ibig sabihin na [kapag] bagong graduate, hindi pa regular, hindi na sila protektado ng batas at wala silang magagawa, so pwedeng-pwedeng magsumbong sa DOLE,” she said.

The discussion served as a timely reminder for young professionals that labor rights apply from day one of employment. Even probationary workers can and should report violations to the Department of Labor and Employment if their rights are compromised.

“CIA with BA,” led by Senator Alan Cayetano and award-winning TV host Boy Abunda, continues the legacy of the late Sen. Rene “Compañero” Cayetano. The program airs every Sunday at 11:00 p.m. on GMA7, with replays every Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on GTV.

Pop Goes Boom: Manila Lights Up in a K-Pop Dance Frenzy at the LG xboom by will.i.am AI-Powered Sound Party

Bianca Yao, a.k.a. Biancake, adventure and gaming enthusiast and founder of Gamers' Run Club, with the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers

LG Electronics turned up the volume on innovation as it unleashed its latest breakthrough in sound with the LG xboom by will.i.am: Pop Goes Boom Launch during a high-energy celebration at Xylo at the Palace. The venue pulsed with K-pop-powered energy, transforming into an immersive dance floor where electrifying performances by Zephanie and NEW:ID brought the crowd, and the speakers to life. Guests also experienced firsthand the features of the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers through interactive product demonstrations that showcased the lineup’s sleek design and intelligent features.

Mr. Yongwoo Park, Product Director for Media Solutions at LG Philippines, kicks off the event with an upbeat welcome to the audience

"Welcome to Pop Goes Boom!, the ultimate party night as we launch the latest LG xboom by will.i.am collection!" announced Mr. Yongwoo Park, LG Philippines’ Product Director for Media Solutions, as he kicked off the party. He warmly welcomed guests and performers, igniting the energy for an evening filled with powerful beats and immersive sound. Mr. Park emphasized LG’s bold approach to audio innovation: "Tonight, the bass doesn’t just play, it pops. And here at Xylo, everything pop will go boom. Let the sound take over. Performances are just getting started. Let’s go big, let’s go loud, let’s go xboom!"

Ms. Mildred Bugay, Product Manager for Audio at LG Philippines, unveils the latest lineup of the next generation of LG xboom by will.i.am Speakers

Bringing sound to the centerstage, Ms. Mildred Bugay, LG Philippines Product Manager for Audio, walked everyone through the features that make the new xboom lineup the ultimate companion for those who live for music and love to move. “We are thrilled to introduce a 2025 lineup meticulously tuned by LG xboom’s Experiential Architect, will.i.am, to deliver richer, warmer tones and an unparalleled immersive listening experience. His innovative blend of cutting-edge technology and vibrant pop culture elevates the entire audio journey.”

The new lineup of LG xboom AI speakers by will.i.am

LG xboom Stage 301

LG xboom Bounce

LG xboom Grab

LG xboom Buds

LG xboom Stage 301 and LG xboom Bounce

LG XBOOM XL Series

LG XBOOM XL9T

LG XBOOM XL5T

LG XBOOM Go

LG XBOOM RN Series

LG XBOOM XL Series and RN Series with the xboom AI Speakers

LG XBOOM XL Series and RN Series Speakers

The new LG xboom by will.i.am lineup, Stage 301, Bounce, Grab, and Buds, brings bold sound and smart style to every kind of listener. The LG xboom Stage 301 delivers room-filling audio with its 6.5” woofer and dual 2.5” midrange drivers, plus mic controls for easy karaoke fun. The LG xboom Bounce may be compact, but it unleashes a bold sound with dual passive radiators and twin dome tweeters that bring every beat to life. Built for on-the-go playlists, the LG xboom Grab features a 16mm tweeter for crisp sound and a tube-shaped design that’s easy to carry or hang. For those who prefer solo listening, the LG xboom Buds offer detailed, high-clarity audio with graphene-coated drivers, advanced noise cancellation, and three microphones to keep calls clear wherever you are. Leveraging advanced technology, Auracast allows you to easily link multiple xboom AI speakers, creating an expansive and immersive soundstage with just a tap. The LG XBOOM XL Series, XBOOM Go, and XBOOM RN Series speakers also stood proudly on display. 

Candy Gamos hosts the event with a vibrant and engaging energy

Candy Gamos lit up the night with unstoppable energy and infectious excitement, keeping the celebration in full swing and the crowd fully charged. 

Cy Estapia from Philippine KPOP Convention Inc. takes the stage to introduce the KPOP challenge performers

All eyes turned to the stage as Philippine KPOP Convention Inc., introduced the night’s featured performers, each bringing their own flair to the KPOP Dance Battle stage. 

DazZ Official

As the first act to hit the stage, DazZ Official had the crowd hyped and moving along with their charisma and explosive energy. 

Excrementum

Excrementum delivered a performance that highlighted their fluid dance style and bold vision of a genderless concept in the dance community. 

Kairos

Kairos, an all-girl powerhouse formed by Na’Be and Meraki, owned the stage with fierce, synchronized choreography, serving unstoppable girl power and proving just how perfectly in sync they are.

 

Principtium

Principtium, known for their sharp moves and self-produced K-pop covers, amped the crowd with precision and power. 

Psycho

Finally, Psycho stormed the stage with wild energy and an all-out performance that got the crowd roaring.

Psycho - KPOP Dance Battle 3rd Place

Kairos - KPOP Dance Battle 2nd Place

Principtium - KPOP Dance Battle Champion

The high-energy KPOP Dance Battle was evaluated by a dynamic trio: Mildred Bugay, LG Philippines Product Manager for Audio; AG Constantino, Marketing Communications Manager; and Wilson, member of the country’s rising pop male group, NEW:ID. After an electrifying night filled with jaw-dropping choreography, powerful stage presence, and non-stop crowd-cheering moments, the panel hailed Principtium as the Champion for their standout performance that stole the show. Kairos wowed the judges with their energy and precision to claim 2nd place, while Psycho brought passion to secure 3rd place. To celebrate the creativity, talent, and heart of all the performers, the remaining teams were also awarded an LG xboom Bounce as a special consolation prize.

LG xboom AI Dance Challenge Winners

Jaja Sagmayao, LG xboom AI Dance Challenge choreographer, demonstrates the Gnarly by KATSEYE dance with high energy

The crowd got louder as audience members were invited to join the fun and step into the spotlight to show off their moves and bring the xboom energy to life. With guidance from the dance choreographer, they grooved to the catchy rhythm of “Gnarly” by KATSEYE, confidently following each step while bringing their own personality, charm, and playful energy to the stage. Winners were determined by the loudest cheers from a crowd that was genuinely engaged and full of support. They also took home LG xboom by will.i.am products as prizes.

NEW:ID fired up the stage with dynamic moves that captivated the crowd

The crowd went into a frenzy as NEW:ID, the rising pop phenomenon, fired up the crowd with their synchronized moves, and powerful stage presence. Performing fan-favorite tracks like “Ghost,” “Killing It Girl,” and “Deja Vu,” turning the venue into a dance floor, with fans waving their light sticks and singing along. “As performers, sound is everything when we're performing, and bass is a big deal for us. It gets us more in the zone and brings our full energy to the stage. And what better speaker to bring that to life than the LG xboom AI? It's loud, powerful, and every beat just hits hard.”

Zephanie delivers a standout singing performance with her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence

Just when the energy peaked, Zephanie, Idol Philippines 2019 Grand Champion, electrified the crowd with her show-stopping performance. Her clear, commanding vocals, amplified by LG xboom AI’s precision tuning and deep, balanced sound, cut through the crowd and pulled everyone in. Performing powerful renditions of and “Problem,” and “Bang Bang” Zephanie showed why she’s one of today’s most promising vocalists. 

With LG xboom by will.i.am’s advanced audio tech, every note hit harder, turning a great performance into an unforgettable moment. "On stage or in my daily routine, LG is always by my side. It really helps to have a speaker you can rely on, and the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers are always there when I need them like playing my rehearsal playlists one minute, then helping me relax with chill music the next. Being able to perform with confidence, knowing LG’s got my back, feels like a dream." 

DJ Dara kept the night grooving with her infectious beats

The night ended on a feel-good finale as DJ Dara took over the rhythm, keeping the energy alive with her signature mix of upbeat K-pop tracks and party dance music.

Sandra Jung, a Philippine-based Korean influencer, poses with the LG XBOOM XL Series Speakers

Kristy Cho, a Philippine-based Korean influencer, also made a special appearance, adding her distinctive touch to the evening

Kristy Cho and Sandra Jung, Philippine-based Korean influencers, posing together, enjoying the night’s atmosphere

Mika Reyes, professional Philippine volleyball player, also graced the event with her presence

Bianca Yao, a.k.a. Biancake, posing with the LG xboom by will.i.am Speakers

Bianca Yao, a.k.a. Biancake, alongside her Gamers' Run Club team

Special appearances by Sandra Jung, Kristy Cho, Mika Reyes, and Bianca Yao with the Gamers' Run Club brought an extra spark to the celebration, adding a lively and unforgettable touch to the day’s celebration.

Members of the media posed with the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers, taking a closer look and engaging with the latest audio innovation

This is the future of music. LG made sure everyone felt it, reminding the crowd that Life’s Good when powered by music, technology, and real connection. In collaboration with will.i.am’s forward-thinking creative vision, the LG xboom by will.i.am isn’t just a speaker,  it’s a statement. Smart, adaptive, and bold, these speakers fuse cutting-edge technology with deep, immersive sound, designed to move with you and move you. Whether you're at home, on the go, or in the zone, the LG xboom delivers the sound you need, exactly when and where you need it.

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology, it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at https://www.lg.com/ph/audio/xboom and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines.