KORONADAL CITY — The official press conference for the 10th Mindanao ICT Conference (MindaCon 2025) concluded last week at the South Cotabato Gym and Cultural Center, marking a pivotal moment in the countdown to Mindanao’s biggest digital gathering.

In his opening message, Clint Junsay, Host City Organizing Committee Lead and Co-Chair of the South Cotabato ICT Council, emphasized the event’s unique identity. “MindaCon is more than just a conference—it’s a movement,” Junsay declared. “It’s a celebration and a commitment to build a digital future that is rooted in culture, powered by innovation, and made possible by collaboration.”

Set to take place from June 19–21, 2025, at The Farm at Carpenter Hill, MindaCon 2025 will be the first time the City of Koronadal hosts this flagship event. This year’s theme, “Innovating Mindanao’s Workforce for a Sustainable Industry 5.0,” sets the stage for an inclusive and people-centered approach to digital transformation.

Provincial and national leaders echoed their support. Tyron Jann B. Villanueva, representing the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, underscored the strategic role of MindaCon in fostering job creation and talent development across the province. “South Cotabato stands ready to be a key player in the Mindanao ICT ecosystem,” he affirmed.

DOST Region XII, through Provincial Director Giselle Eve G. Ortega-Siladan, highlighted its commitment to empower communities through innovation and technology-driven development. “Science and technology must empower—not isolate,” she stressed, aligning DOST’s initiatives with MindaCon’s vision of an inclusive Industry 5.0 landscape.

DICT Region XII Regional Director Engr. Ibrahim B. Guiapar Jr. reinforced the government’s role as both enabler and innovator, with initiatives like expanded connectivity, cybersecurity training, and digital literacy campaigns designed to bridge the digital divide across SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM.

Christian Valeen Chiu, Co-Chair of the Koronadal ICT Council, expressed the city’s pride and readiness to host the historic conference. “Koronadal is more than ready,” Chiu affirmed. “We are ready with our people, our partnerships, and our purpose to champion innovation that is inclusive, rooted in our culture, and future-facing”.

Vice Mayor Erlinda Pabi-Araquil of the City of Koronadal also voiced the city’s unwavering support. “On behalf of the City Government headed by Mayor Ogena, we are proud to affirm our full legislative and institutional commitment to the success of the 10th MindaCon,” she stated. “This landmark event underscores our vision to position our city as a hub of innovation, digital advancement, inclusive growth, and responsible stewardship of superior technology. The City Council, headed by yours truly, has unanimously endorsed legislative measures such as resolutions and ordinances which prioritize funding, logistical coordination, and interagency collaboration to ensure the seamless execution of the upcoming conference.”

MindaCon 2025 will feature a comprehensive program including investment tours, thought leadership panels, skills-building workshops, and strategic networking sessions MINDACON 2025 Overview. Registration is ongoing via https://nicp.org.ph/mindacon-2025-koronadal/

As Mindanao’s digital community gears up for this landmark event, the press conference served as a powerful call to action: to shape the region’s future with technology, talent, and togetherness.

You’ve got the fits, the playlists, the IG grid — everything curated just right. But when it
comes to your finances, things still feel a little... freestyle? Here’s the truth: being
financially put together is the ultimate glow-up. And it doesn’t require a finance degree
or a sit-down with a banker. You simply need the right app, one that matches your vibe,
your pace, and your goals.

This is where Maya comes in - the #1 Digital Bank App in the Philippines. With smart
tools that make saving feel effortless and security that doesn’t sleep, Maya helps you
take control of your finances and actually feel good about it.
High Interest, Low Effort

Saving has never looked this good. With Maya, you can earn up to 15% interest per
annum on your savings just by doing what you already do. Pay bills, buy groceries, grab
your daily coffee — every transaction gets you closer to boosted savings. No minimum
balance, no drama, just effortless growth. Because nothing feels better than knowing
your money is working harder than you are.

Finance, But Make It A Vibe

Real talk: financial confidence is the new luxury. Enter the Maya Card — a sleek black
prepaid card that is as stylish as it is smart. It is globally accepted and connected to
your Maya Wallet for real-time tracking, giving you full control, wherever you go. Swipe
smart, spend intentionally, and look good while doing it.
Your Money, On Lock

Protecting your money should never feel complicated. Maya’s built-in security offers
bank-grade protection featuring biometric logins, OTP verification, and 24/7 fraud
monitoring — all in a clean, easy-to-use interface. Safe, simple, and always on.
And yes, Maya’s the real deal. It’s regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and
your savings are insured by the PDIC for up to ₱1 million.

Managing your finances does not need to be overwhelming or out of reach. With Maya,
you can save smarter, spend with intention, and feel more secure.
So go ahead, get your money together and do it all in one sleek app that actually
understands your lifestyle. Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph and
follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for updates.

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About Maya
Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, with Maya, the #1 Digital Bank,
and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor. Maya Bank is a digital
bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), with deposits insured by the
Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to ₱ 1 million per depositor. To
learn more about Maya, check out maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Follow Maya at
@mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok and
@mayaofficialph on Twitter.

  
For more information:
Nick Wilwayco
Head of Public Affairs and Communications
Maya
nick.wilwayco@maya.ph

 Potato Corner is cranking up cravings by tapping viral dance sensation Niana Guerrero as its newest ambassador. The Gen Z internet star is joining forces with the makers of the Philippines’ favorite flavored fries to bring fans an irresistibly fun snacking experience.

As the most-followed Filipino on TikTok, Niana captivates audiences with her freshest moves and coolest styles. Recently, Niana has been gaining global recognition and enjoying international opportunities, including a standout performance at Coachella.

She’s been serving world-class vibes since she was a kiddo, just like how Potato Corner’s been serving the world’s favorite flavored fries since the '90s. This collab isn’t just a campaign, it’s the universe aligning for them.

Potato Corner’s new campaign, #CraveTheFave, says it all. Whether you’re a Gen Z snack hunter or a family on a weekend food trip, Potato Corner is the ultimate go-to for snack cravings.

Niana can attest to having irresistible flavored fry cravings. “PotCor has been my favorite fries ever since! I genuinely love it! So being part of this campaign feels amazing. I am excited to mix my love for fries and dancing, and share all the fun with all my fellow PotCor fans,” Niana said.

 

To kick off the cravings, Potato Corner is preparing an array of exciting surprises for this year, including limited-edition flavored fries, a chance to score free upsizes on favorites, and a dance challenge where loyal Potato Corner cravers can win the chance to meet Niana.

With Niana’s infectious appeal across ages and platforms, and Potato Corner's fun-filled frenzy of surprises, you’ve got a duo that’s bound to have fun—and make merienda times more exciting.

 

Whether snacking solo, hanging out with the squad, or spending time with family, Potato Corner guarantees it will deliver the ultimate crave wave.

Fans can stay tuned for flavor-packed content by following @potatocornerph on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok; or even #CraveTheFave IRL at their nearest Potato Corner.

 

General Santos City — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and General Santos Doctors Hospital (GSH) formally sealed a partnership today, May 29, 2025, through the signing of a Contract for the implementation of the Z Benefit Package, aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare support to patients battling breast cancer, those requiring peritoneal dialysis, and individuals in need of  physical medicine and rehabilitation services. 

The ceremonial contract signing was held at the General Santos Doctors Hospital Multipurpose Hall. It was attended by officials from Philhealth Region XIl, as well as executives and medical specialists from GSDH. 

This milestone collaboration reinforces PhilHealth's commitment to making quality healthcare more accessible, particularly for serious and long-term conditions classified under the Z Benefit Package. 

Under this agreement, eligible PhilHealth members and their dependents will now have access to: 

• Z Benefit Package for Breast Cancer (Stage O to IIB): covering diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, and supportive care; 
• Peritoneal Dialysis Z Package: designed to reduce the financial burden of patients requiring regular dialysis treatment; 
•  z Benefit for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services: enabling improved recovery and functionality for patients with physical disabilities or impairments. 

 

Dr. Daniel G. Yap, President and Medical Director, GSDH

Dr. Daniel G. Yap, President and Medical Director of General Santos Doctors Hospital, expressed strong support for the partnership: "As a true and responsible partner of PhilHealth, General Santos Doctors Hospital proudly signs on to not just one, but three pivotal programs— the Z Benefit Package for Breast Cancer, Peritoneal Dialysis, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services. These initiatives reflect our aligned commitment to not only treat disease but to restore hope, dignity, and quality of life to every patient." 

For inquiries and eligibility assessment, members are advised to visit the PhilHealth Help Desk at GSDH or call the hospital's PhilHealth liaison office. 

For media inquiries, partnerships, or to learn more about the partnership, please contact: 

Kate S. Budke ,Business Development and Marketing Manager, General Santos Doctors Hospital .+639081705663 / marketing@gsdh.com.ph

 

Café Summit, the all-day dining brand of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, presents a flavorful journey of heritage, innovation, and heartfelt stories through Reimagined Filipino Cuisine, a two-month showcase of creative dishes from six of its talented chefs. 

“Each day, a different chef will take the spotlight, sharing a personal masterpiece that reflects their roots, inspirations, and culinary artistry. And then we celebrate the full spectrum of talent as all six featured dishes are showcased in one incredible Sunday spread. It’s a grand feast, a culmination of the week's flavors and stories, designed to indulge your senses,” says Ms. Cecille Padilla, RHR’s corporate director for food & beverage.

 

From Monday to Saturday, a featured chef’s signature dish will be served at all six Café Summit branches nationwide—offering guests from different regions a unified and intimate taste of each chef’s creative vision. 

 

Guests can taste Chef Mau’s Crispy Lechon Kinunot on Mondays; Chef Kiko’s Maya-maya, Kahel, at Lukban on Tuesdays; Chef Ricky’s Chicken Hinatukan on Wednesdays; Chef Ace’s Braised Shortribs Kinamatisan Ravioli on Thursdays; Chef Remie’s Beef Bulalo Riyandang on Fridays; Chef Ernie’s Crispy Handrolled Palabok on Saturdays; while all the specialty dishes can be savored on Sundays. 

“Cafe Summit’s Reimagined Filipino Cuisine is one of the ways Robinsons Hotels and Resorts brings to life our service culture of ‘Hospitality by Heart’,” says Mr. Barun Jolly, senior vice president and general manager of RHR. “We are committed to providing our guests with a memorable dining experience through the innovative and heartwarming approach of our chefs in crafting these new dishes,” adds Mr. Jolly.

 

Meet the Chefs and their Dishes!

  Monday

Maurito “Mau” Dominguez, head chef of Café Summit Galleria Cebu, reimagines two iconic Filipino flavors with Crispy Lechon Kinunot—a marriage of Cebu’s signature lechon and fresh seafood. Crispy pork and tender tuna belly come together in creamy coconut milk infused with malunggay leaves, bringing together the best of land and sea in a comforting and indulgent dish.

 Tuesday

At Cafe Summit Naga, Head Chef Francis “Kiko” Joseph Tugnao serves Maya-maya, Kahel, at Lukban—combining snapper with fresh pomelo, orange, and sweet saba, this dish offers a delightful fusion of citrusy brightness and savory depth inspired by the tropical bounty of the Philippines.

 “Maya-maya, Kahel, at Lukban is my way of celebrating the rich, fresh flavors of the Philippines, using ingredients that are both local and beloved,” says Chef Kiko. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of the Maya-maya (Snapper fish) complemented by fruit zest.

 Wednesday

Sous Chef Ricky Norcio brings comfort and heart to Café Summit Tacloban with Chicken Hinatukan, a native chicken stew simmered in rich coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and green papaya—an homage to Eastern Visayas’ culinary soul.  The fusion of simple, local ingredients creates a nourishing and unforgettable meal.

“This dish reminds me of home. With each bite, my version of Hinatukan will transport you to the comforting kitchens of an Eastern Visayas household,” says Chef Ricky.

 Thursday

Executive Chef Arvin Ace Barsaga of Café Summit Greenhills transforms Pangasinan’s classic dish Kinamatisan into something entirely new with his Braised Shortribs Kinamatisan Ravioli. This rich and delectable creation features succulent beef short ribs slow-cooked with tomatoes and aromatic spices, and paired with creamy cheeses and fresh kangkong.

“My inspiration comes from my grandmother and my wife, with whom I share a deep love for cooking and traditional Filipino recipes,” says Chef Arvin. His version of Kinamatisan reflects a personal connection to his roots, bringing together the warmth of family traditions with his creative culinary approach.

Friday

At Café Summit General Santos, Head Chef Remie Malicy combines two beloved dishes into one bold creation: Beef Bulalo Riyandang. Imagine the familiar taste of bulalo—tender beef shank, bone marrow, and broth—reimagined in the deep, spiced complexity of Rendang-style cooking. 

“Beef rendang was the very first dish I learned to cook during my time in Malaysia. It became the foundation of my culinary journey—a dish rich in culture, spice, and soul. The depth of flavor left a lasting impression on me, shaping the way I understood food. With Beef Riyandang, I’ve reimagined that classic by blending the traditional richness of rendang with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mindanao,” says Chef Remie.

 Saturday

Head Chef Ernie Baculio of Café Summit Tagaytay reinterprets the noodle dish palabok by wrapping the classic elements in a delicate golden crisp shell that transforms it into a bite-sized indulgence—perfect for modern dining while staying true to its roots.

“I wanted to keep the soul of palabok—its bold, savory flavors and comforting texture—but present it in a form that excites curiosity,” Chef Ernie shares.

Every plate tells a story—personal, flavorful, and proudly Filipino. The two-month culinary journey will fascinate guests, food lovers, and culinary adventurers. Make your way and experience Reimagined Philippine Cuisine at Cafe Summit starting 09 June until 10 August 2025.

 

For more information about Café Summit and its upcoming promos, please visit https://summithotels.ph/.

 

About Café Summit:

Café Summit is a value-for-money casual dining restaurant that offers a relaxing ambiance with contemporary, innovative, and sustainable cuisine delivered by a friendly and attentive team following a standard level of heartfelt service.

 

 

 

Coca-Cola’s expanded initiative officially kicked off with a Tapon to Ipon booth activation on April 29, 2025, at Terra 28th in BGC, showcasing the importance of strong community engagement.

23 May 2025, MANILA, Philippines — Coca-Cola Philippines builds on its ongoing
sustainability efforts with the expanded rollout of its ‘Tapon to Ipon’ PET bottle collection
program, marking an important step towards supporting local bottle collection infrastructure and
helping accelerate PET bottle recovery efforts across communities.

The expanded Tapon to Ipon program consolidates Coca-Cola Philippines’ various bottle
collection programs including the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) initiative into one program. With
over 6,000 collection hubs now in operation nationwide, the initiative aims to make recycling
drop off points more accessible to communities across the Philippines.

The initiative was officially relaunched with a community activation event on April 29, 2025, at
Terra 28th in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), highlighting the importance of strong local
engagement.

“Coca-Cola Philippines continues to innovate and improve our recycling systems to help
address plastic waste,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines. “By
expanding Tapon to Ipon, we are increasing collection and recycling access and reinforcing our
commitment to partnerships that help deliver positive impact in local communities.”

Originally launched in 2021 by Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), formerly
Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), Tapon to Ipon has engaged sari-sari store
owners, customers, government agencies, and local governments to recover post-consumer
clear PET bottles.

“We are grateful to all our partners who continue to support collective environmental action,”
said Gareth McGeown, CEO and President of CCEAP. “Strengthening collection and recycling
infrastructure has always been a key goal of Tapon to Ipon, and its expansion underscores our
shared mission to empower communities and create a more sustainable future for Filipinos.”

The program invites consumers to exchange used PET bottles—regardless of brand—for Coca-
Cola product rewards at designated collection hubs, including sari-sari stores and special pop-
up booths at major local events such as the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City and Dinagyang
Festival in Iloilo City.

The aim is to bring the collected bottles to PETValue Philippines, the country’s first food-grade
bottle-to-bottle recycling facility located in General Trias, Cavite. PETValue Philippines, a joint
venture between CCEAP and Indorama Ventures, plays a critical role in turning post-consumer
PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging.

To date, CCEAP has reached over 170 cities and municipalities nationwide. The program has
also been recognized at the FMCG Asia Awards, Quill Awards, and Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards,
underscoring its significant contribution to promoting more sustainable practices and
responsible waste management.

At the Tapon to Ipon activation in BGC, attendees dropped off their empty PET bottles and joined the “Dunk, Not Junk” shooting hoops game for a chance to win Coca-Cola merchandise, refreshing products, and other exciting prizes.

 

Incentivizing community recycling systems

As an expanded part of the program, which now incorporates the Tindahan Extra Mile program,
sari-sari store and carinderia owners will also become empowered to be rewarded for their
recycling efforts.

Implemented in partnership with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST)
and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), participating micro-
retailers collect PET plastic bottles and other recyclables from their communities and can earn
points based on the volume of materials they gather. They can use these points to redeem cash
or products through the bXTRA app.

Tapon to Ipon underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. By partnering
with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), retailers, private organizations, and local
government units, the company continues to build a strong network of collection hubs that make
recycling more accessible and engaging for communities across the country.

Hundreds of collection points have been established across the Philippines to make recycling
more accessible to communities. To find the nearest collection point, visit the interactive map at:
https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability

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About Coca-Cola Philippines:
Coca-Cola has been refreshing Filipinos and making a difference in the Philippines for 113 years. The Philippines was Coca-Cola’s first market in Asia to begin local bottling operations. Today, the Coca-Cola system in the Philippines has evolved into a total beverage company, offering a diverse portfolio of brands in its beverage portfolio and employing approximately 9,000 Filipinos in 18 manufacturing facilities, nearly 70 distribution centers and sales offices nationwide. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging, recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain.
Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.