FFCCCII, Education Secretary Sonny Angara Honor Winners of “A Classroom for Every Dream” TikTok Video Competition

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), led by President Victor Lim, honored outstanding storytellers and video creators in the awarding ceremony of the “A Classroom for Every Dream” TikTok Video Competition, celebrating how the federation’s long-running "Operation Barrio Schools" initiative has transformed lives and opened doors to education across the Philippines.

Held on October 24, 2026, at Luxent Hotel, Quezon City, the ceremony recognized compelling Tiktok video entries that documented the impact of FFCCCII’s 65-year philanthropic undertaking. The event brought together stories of opportunity, perseverance and community transformation, underscoring the power of public education to nurture dreams and strengthen the nation.

Launched in 1961 with goals of helping alleviate rural poverty and to boost the Philippine economy, the FFCCCII Operation Barrio Schools has already donated over 6,500 rural public school buildings nationwide, helping underserved and economically disadvantaged communities gain access to better learning facilities. The largest and longest-running private sector educational civic initiative of its kind, the project has encouraged Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs to contribute to the Philippine public school system through the construction and donation of much-needed public school buildings in rural communities across the country.

The competition featured two categories: “My BarrioSchool Journey” and “The BarrioSchools Story.” Through personal narratives and creative storytelling, participants highlighted how classrooms can change individual lives, inspire communities and help build a brighter future for generations of Filipino learners.

COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS AND RECOGNIZED ENTRIES

Category A — My BarrioSchool Journey

Major Awards

- 1st Place — ₱120,000: Jhon Henry Arquileta, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija

- 2nd Place — ₱80,000: Marielle Q. Badana, Tarlac

- 3rd Place — ₱50,000: Angelo I. Nirza, Palo, Leyte

- 3rd Place — ₱50,000: John Lloyd S. Paned, Banna, Ilocos Norte

Special Citation Awardees

- President’s Choice Award — ₱30,000: April Mae P. Tañares, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

- Youth Leadership Award — ₱30,000: Jenny Celestial, Mandaue City

- Media Excellence Award — ₱30,000: John Vincent M. Leoncio, Pulilan, Bulacan

- Education Impact Award — ₱30,000: Achaia Shane L. Tan, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

- Community Inspiration Award — ₱30,000: Mark Cafe, Tacloban

- Community Inspiration Award — ₱30,000: Michella H. Cendaña, Quezon

Notable Entries

- Christine Ann T. Borcelo, Northern Samar

- Imerico B. Villanueva, Dasmariñas, Cavite

- Nikka Joy Delos Reyes, Dasmariñas, Cavite

- Roberto G. Tiangco, Bulacan

- Kim Dedicatoria, San Francisco, Southern Leyte

Category B — The BarrioSchools Story

Major Awards

- Professional Grand Award — ₱120,000: Ramil Carmona Salon Jr., Davao City

- Excellence in Storytelling — ₱80,000: Jindrich Queen Naomi N. Bernabe, Rizal

- Excellence in Production — ₱50,000: Mark Cedrick S. Capareda, Tagum City, Davao del Norte

- President’s Choice Award — ₱30,000: Sarah Mae Cabalhug, Cebu City

Notable Entries Awardees

- Jhan-Jhan Q. Agustin, Camiling, Tarlac

- Toni Girence B. Panes, Quezon City

- Jhun-Jhun Q. Agustin, Camiling, Tarlac

- Prince Loyd Besorio, Zamboanga del Sur

- Louise Ashley A. Cal, Talisay City, Cebu

- Amelia Villanueva, Dasmariñas, Cavite

- Shelley Mae Villarin, Ormoc City, Leyte

- Jayh-Em Ferrer, Isabela

- Angel Jhos Mallari Supan, Magalang, Pampanga

- Richard D. Samulde, Surallah, South Cotabato

- Mylene Tiondo, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte

Through this competition, FFCCCII reaffirmed the importance of preserving and sharing the stories behind Operation Barrio Schools—not only as a record of school buildings constructed, but as a testament to the lives enriched, opportunities created and communities strengthened through sustained civic partnership.

The federation’s enduring message is that every classroom represents more than a structure: it is a gateway to knowledge, a foundation for hope and a place where Filipino children can begin turning their dreams into reality.

Mang Inasal honors Coco Martin at Ihaw Fest 2026

 

Mang Inasal, the country’s Grill Expert, brought together customers and some of the country's biggest celebrities for the grand culmination of Ihaw Fest 2026, transforming Ayala Malls Feliz into a venue filled with Ihaw-Sarap, Unli-Saya, and Filipino togetherness.

 

The annual Mang Inasal Ihaw Fest welcomed beloved brand ambassadors Coco Martin, Dimples Romana, Maris Racal, Shuvee Etrata, and Fyang Smith for a star-studded gathering that showcased the strong connection between the country's Grill Expert and the communities it serves.

 

The event's highlight was a special tribute honoring Coco Martin's decade-long partnership with Mang Inasal. The actor and the brand have shared a common bond with Filipinos, becoming household favorites through authenticity, consistency, and a deep connection with everyday consumers.

 

"Napakalaking bagay po sa akin na hanggang ngayon, nandiyan pa rin ang inyong tiwala. Maraming salamat po sa lahat ng ating mga kababayang patuloy nasumusuporta sa akin at sa Mang Inasal," said Martin. ("I am truly grateful for the trust and support that Filipino consumers have given me and Mang Inasal through the years.")

 

Dimples hosted the event with MJ Joanino. It featured live performances, interactive challenges, exciting prizes, and free Pork BBQ sampling that brought fans closer to their favorite stars while enjoying Mang Inasal's signature grilled favorites. A high-energy performance by UPeepzDance Company added to the festive atmosphere, turning the event into the Ultimate Unli-Saya Experience. 

 

For Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro, the success of Ihaw Fest reflects the brand's continuing commitment to creating meaningful experiences that go beyond serving great food.

 

"More than a celebration, Ihaw Fest is our way of thanking the millions of customers who continue to make Mang Inasal part of their family's special moments and everyday meals," said Castro. "The incredible turnout and energy from our customers remind us why we continue creating experiences that bring people together through the Ihaw-Sarap flavors and Unli-Saya moments they love."

 

Now on its fourth year, Ihaw Fest has become one of Mang Inasal's most anticipated annual promotions, giving customers more reasons to enjoy their favorite grilled meals every October.

 

Customers can still be part of the celebration until the end of the month, with two FREE Palabok Solo servings for every purchase of the Mang Inasal Family Fiesta bundle.

 

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

 

Taste the bold flavors of Vietnamese coffee in Don Macchiatos’ new product line

Don Macchiatos, the country’s first ₱39 coffee chain, is bringing more of Asia’s flavors to its lineup of affordable and delicious coffee-based drinks with the introduction of four new flavors. The coffee chain officially launched four new flavors on October 20, 2026, at its flagship branch in P. del Rosario Street, right beside Sto. Rosario Church.

Inspired by Vietnam’s bold coffee culture, the new additions, Salt Coffee, Coconut Coffee, Iced Black Coffee and Iced Milk Coffee, are prepared using the traditional phin filter, which produces a rich, textured brew commonly paired with sweetened condensed milk and served over ice.

The new lineup also features Trung Nguyen, authentically-sourced Robusta beans, known for its strong, dark-roasted and distinctly chocolatey profile, a hallmark of Vietnamese coffee. Vinamilk, a popular condensed milk in Vietnam is also one of the key ingredients of the new flavor lineup.  

This partnership underscores Don Macchiatos’ authentic homage to Vietnamese coffee, bringing the taste of the Land of the Blue Dragon to the Filipino masses. Brewed using traditional phin filters and premium Robusta beans, the new lineup captures the bold, distinctive spirit of Vietnam across four expertly-crafted beverages:

Cà Phê Cốt Dừa

Coconut Coffee 

Known for its abundant coconut harvests, Southern Vietnam is home to one of the most sought-after Vietnamese coffee specialties: coconut coffee. Don Macchiatos’ take on this beloved creation is as bold as it gets, featuring a sweet and creamy component over the coffee, finished with desiccated coconut bits for an added crunch. This is priced at ₱59.

Cà Phê Muối

Salt Coffee

A distinctive Vietnamese brew combining strong coffee with a lightly salted creamy topping, Don Macchiato's new Salt Coffee flavor features subtle saltiness that enhances the rich, roasted notes of the coffee while balancing its controlled sweetness for a smooth, bold finish. This is priced at ₱59.

Cà Phê Sữa Đá 

Iced Milk Coffee 

Classic is never something to get tired of. With this timeless coffee flavor, the Original Vietnamese flavor boasts a strong brewed coffee blended with rich sweetened condensed milk. Perfectly balanced with a bold coffee aroma, smooth creamy body, and a mellow sweetness. This is priced at ₱59.

Cà Phê Đen Đá

Black Coffee

A pure, bold Vietnamese coffee experience crafted with strong phin-brewed coffee poured over ice. Intensely aromatic with deep, dark-roasted bitterness and subtle chocolate or caramel undertones, served black (or with a touch of sugar) for an invigorating, uncompromised flavor profile.

Alongside the launch of its new products, Don Macchiatos is also sprucing up its flagship store along P. Del Rosario, right beside Sto. Rosario Church. Designed by Yaoto Architects + Partners, the newly renovated shop emulates the chill street side feel of Vietnamese coffee shops where patrons can comfortably sit in the coffee shop’s store front, facing the bustling streets while enjoying their coffee delights.  

This new flavor lineup will be rolling out to all branches soon. Customers can get an exclusive first taste at Don Macchiatos’ flagship branch on P. Del Rosario, Cebu City. Come on over and taste a little bit of Vietnam at the heart of Cebu with Don Macchiatos’ new product offerings.

Puregold Teatro Panalo unveils groundbreaking lineup for historic inaugural festival

Philippine theater history is in the making!

After months of anticipation, excitement, and speculation, the stage is finally set for the inaugural Puregold Teatro Panalo! From a total of 373 submissions nationwide, only 12 exceptional works have emerged as the festival’s historic first batch of finalists.

Some of the biggest names in Philippine theater have meticulously reviewed hundreds of entries, searching for the most compelling stories, freshest voices, and boldest creative visions. Now, the chosen 12 are ready to take center stage and usher in an exciting new chapter for Filipino theater.

The highly anticipated announcement took place during a special live event at Cinema 16 of Gateway Mall on October 14. The selected playwrights stepped into the spotlight to receive their ₱100,000 talent fees, officially marking the beginning of their journey as pioneers of the first-ever Puregold Teatro Panalo.

Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold Teatro Panalo Festival Chair, expressed her excitement over the historic lineup and the extraordinary response from Filipino theater artists across the country.

“It was encouraging to see how many Filipino storytellers are eager to share their work, and it made choosing only 12 plays especially difficult. They remind us how much Filipino theater has to offer; how live experiences offer authentic connections, and how important it is to create more opportunities for these stories to find their audience,” said Hayagan-Piedad. “With Puregold Teatro Panalo, we hope to give these works the stage they deserve and, in our own way, help Philippine theater continue to grow.” 

The 12 finalists—eight straight plays and four musicals—of the inaugural Puregold Teatro Panalo are:

• “The Girl Scout Law” by Rhain Arabella Alcoriza
• “True to Life” by John "Sweet" Lapus
• “Trahedya ng Kamote” by Marjay S. Manalastas
• “The Boy Foretold By The Stars (One Act Play)” by Dolly Dulu
• “Nothing But Dreams” by Ricardo C. Novenario
• “Youngstunna” by Jerom Andrei M. Canlas
• “Walang Maliit na Bagay” by Joshua Lim So
• “@HOME” by Edralin Cabrera, Kathlyn Castillo, Michael Ian Lomongo, Marjorie Lorico, Maria Teresa Jamias, Wenah Nagales, & J Victor Villareal
• “Ang Maayong Balita Sumala Kang Bibo Bautista” by Jude Thaddeus M. Gitamondoc
• “Baka mali ang Tamaraw” by Emmanuel Benbinuto Antonio
• “Manang-Mana Nga!” by Steven Hotchkiss and Jay Pangilinan
• “The Fourth Wall Has Fallen” by Heber Justin P. O'Hara

Behind this landmark selection is an impressive assembly of some of the country’s most respected theater luminaries: NCCA SUDI National Music Awardee and multi-award-winning composer and playwright, Festival Director Vincent A. DeJesus; two-time Philstage Gawad Buhay! Award-winning director and accomplished actor Jenny Jamora; five-time Palanca Award-winning playwright Liza Magtoto; actor, award-winning film director, and producer Marlon Rivera; and theater artist, lyricist, and Palanca Awards Hall of Famer Atty. Nicolas Pichay.

Joining the team as Screening Committee members are multiple Palanca Award winners Dr. Layeta Bucoy and Allan Lopez, who screened the festival submissions and shortlisted the entries. Providing invaluable expertise and creative guidance to the festival is its Artistic Adviser, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee.

With such an extraordinary roster of artists behind the selection process, the inaugural lineup represents a powerful showcase of the creativity, imagination, and storytelling talent thriving in the Philippines today.

And this is only the beginning!

All 12 finalists will receive comprehensive development and production support from festival organizer Wishbone Collective Inc., transforming their winning concepts into fully staged productions. Audiences will finally get to experience these exciting new works when Puregold Teatro Panalo runs from February 20 to March 14, 2027.

The stakes will rise even higher as the festival draws to a close. One straight play and one musical will each be awarded an additional development grant, giving their creators the opportunity to expand their works into full-length theatrical productions.

More than a festival, Puregold Teatro Panalo is shaping up to be a major new platform for discovering Filipino talent, championing original stories, and creating opportunities for the next generation of theater makers.

Twelve groundbreaking works. One historic inaugural festival. A bold new era for Philippine theater.

The future of Filipino theater is ready to take center stage. And when the curtains rise in 2027, audiences will witness the beginning of something truly extraordinary.

Puregold Hakot Relay crosses finish line as the can’t-miss sporting event of the year

 

Over 4,000 runners felt their hearts pumping and their muscles burning at the latest leg of Puregold Hakot Relay in Imus, Cavite. The highly anticipated running event proved to be a massive success with Puregold shoppers, running enthusiasts, and more driven by the panalo spirit throughout the athletic journey.

 

Puregold created their signature Hakot Relay as a unique physical challenge for loyal Puregold shoppers, spurring them to showcase teamwork and camaraderie as they sprint to the finish line. 

 

The unstoppable panalo spirit shone through despite the rains. Teams of runners were seen excitedly hauling groceries won in the hakot sections through the course and to the finish line. For some, this meant everyday kitchen essentials like bags of rice, packs of instant noodles, and jugs of soy sauce. For others, it meant singlehandedly carrying home appliances like electric fans on their shoulders through the rain.

 

Puregold senior manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad spoke on the importance of the event. 

 

“We started Hakot Relay with a simple idea of bringing our shoppers together through an experience that is uniquely Puregold,” said Hayagan-Piedad. “Seeing everyone show up, cheer each other on, and keep going through the rain was incredible. That’s the panalo energy that makes Hakot Relay so special, and we can’t wait to bring it to more communities.” 

 

Puregold Hakot Relay was more than a treat for families looking to stock up on groceries, however. For those seeking a raw athletic challenge, there was also the 8K Individual Challenge, a new addition to the Puregold Hakot Relay event. 

 

Over 500 runners chose to take on the individual challenge, pushing themselves through a full 8 kilometer course to reach the finish line. Here, the spirit of athletic competition truly came alive, as every runner raced not against the clock or even their fellow runners, but simply against themselves. Making it to the finish line was an achievement in itself, one that was rewarded with a finisher’s medal and a surprise grocery cart they could take home. 

 

Whether pursuing personal achievement or a big win for the family, there was something to be gained for all participants in the Puregold Hakot Relay.

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