FFCCCII Launches 2nd Short Form Video Comp for "Operation Barrio Schools"

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. or FFCCCII just recently announced their 2nd TikTok Video Competition with this year's theme: A Classroom For Every Dream (How FFCCCII Barrio Schools Have Improved Lives). 

The occasion was attended by FFCCCII President Victor Lim and his fellow FFCCCII officers Mr. Jayson Size, Mr. Peter Mangasing (Co-Chairman of Youth Integrated Committee), Mr. Reynold Sy the FFCCCII Vice President, Mr. Eddie Cobankiat (Chair Public Information and Media Committee) and Kamuning Bakery Owner and Journalist Wilson Flores. 

After the successful contest last year, they're gearing to get more people to join in this 2026 edition. For those who don't know, the organization has already built over 6,500 since 1961 and have been able to help countless students to finish their studies in different regions across the Philippines. 

This is open to Filipinos, 13 yo and above. Entries should be 1-2 minutes short, shot vertically with English Subtitles featuring FFCCCII Barrio School experience, impact or topic. You may upload this privately or through QR codes then tag @FFCCCII.official and use the hashtags #FFCCCIIBarrioSchools on May 5 - 15th this year. Total cash prize amount to 850,000 pesos and the Grand Prize is Php 120,000!

Mr. Victor Lim says "We at FFCCCII would like to encourage Filipinos especially the young ones to join our competition. Our organization's flagship project Operation Barrio Schools is part of Filipino Chinese tradition and we hope to showcase these to spark hope and see progress in communities."

The competition will be set in 2 categories #MyFFCCCIIBarrioSchoolJourney and #TheFFCCCIIBarrioSchoolsStory. Deadline for entries is on May 15th. So if you are a budding content creator or story teller, you've got to join this on the black app! Category A will be for currently enrolled students, teachers and school employees. Category B will be for content creators (pro or non pro, please scan QR for complete mechanics).

Here's the press conference on video, please enjoy!

Safe, Fair and Balanced Recreation with 0KGames

 

The year 2026 calls for more ways to make entertainment not just accessible, but more responsible for Filipinos. Leading brand 0KGames not only is taking this matter seriously, but also wants to change to make things even more safe, fair and balanced for each one of us. 

For quality time, discipline, they're taking a stance in all their events beyond entertainment. They've got tools in the app so you wouldn't get overwhelmed with it. They've got tools to get you to stop when you need to, in hopes of making self control a norm. 

They plan to even make it more clear, to tell you go stop and make it their advocacy going forward. Enjoyable yet responsible, doing it without worrying to use your brain when needed. 

This certainly goes together.

Ginebra Honors Real Life Heroes with "Tatak Ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra" Campaign

Inspiring stories from real life heroes take the stage with Ginebra San Miguel's recent campaign called "Tatak Ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra" (Seal of Courage, Brand of Ginebra) that tells the story of 4 folks, real, unadulterated stories of heroes. The videos are now up on Ginebra's social channels since December 31st, with real people as subjects which Filipinos can relate to. The Never Say Die spirit still lives in this era, with the lives of Filipinos, including educators, jeepney drivers, medical professionals, and people who work each day to make a living. They're quite sure you experienced meeting these heroes during the pandemic where we had to live under closed doors, but still made a point to be of help for your countrymen, no matter how big or small it is.

Folks have endured one of the most challenging times of our lives, like Miguel Mapalad who scaled Mount Everest, talented artist Aughie Fontanilla, PBA'S Sonny Estil, and Billiard Phenom Chezka Centeno. They wear their scars as badges, this is their "Tatak ng Tapang", and won it. We all have this, our struggles can be a thing of the past, we do it for ourselves, our family, and our country. No matter what it is, we can conquer them! Like the highest peak in the world, where Miguel braved the cold and difficulty, shared a bottle of Ginebra with other mountaineers and their Sherpa, and did it greatly!

Auggie on the other hand left her comfy job in publishing, to get into her real passion, doing graffiti work, and now earning recognition for it. She now also manages her clothing brand with the Pilipinas Street Plan Collective. Meanwhile, Sonny Estil is now part of the Ginebra Kings. He's also the top draft pick and became part of the most popular team in the PH pro league. He had to go through hard work as a farmer and carpenter prior to that, carries his courage up his sleeve like a Ginebra King should! Same with Billiard champ Chezka who did so well in 10 ball. She hails from the streets of Zamboanga, used to battle veteran male players, some of which she lost, but she never gave up. It was her dream, and even if it was economically impossible at times, she did it. This is what Ginebra San Miguel wants to celebrate, the never say die spirit has now bared real life heroes and that's amazing!

ZELLE Sets Ablaze Her Comeback with New Single MARTIR

After a grueling 13 years in Sweden, OPM artist Zelle is back in the country for new music, a new perspective with empowerment, her truth and the process of healing. Her single "Martir" talks about the trials and tribulations of love and the complexities of relationships.  

This resurgence didn't come easy as it stemmed from her own life experiences which happened recently, a matter that compelled her to go back to the country. 

She admits experiencing depression, but realized how she could use music as an expression. It was something that she knew was important, to use it to heal. Her gift is now being used with intention and fervor, which is why her music feels more genuine than ever. A way to show her truth, and strength which she hopes to also inspire other women. 

Love certainly is still part of her songs creative process, but says she uses a more psychological aspect in writing about it. She shares how one shouldn't lose their identity while experiencing love. That's a pretty strong statement!

She now is doing gigs and tours with a dependable band. With John Abiathar De Leon on drums, Archie Salvador on guitar, Chester Ventura on violin, and Jing Gonzales on bass plus a few more people in charge of production, she's ready to perform in different stages, here or elsewhere. She's also preparing a release for another single "Liberate Me" which she's doing soon. In the meantime, listen download and stream "Martir" on all streaming platforms and take that awesome healing and feisty journey with Zelle.

Shining Bright: CHARO CORDIAL and MADDOX JEWELRY

Took a trip way east to Marikina City to visit the physical showroom of Maddox Jewelry. We got to talk to Madame Charo Cordial, the viral online seller, entrepreneur and businesswoman who made her small venture into a gold and diamond empire that it is today. 

She had very humble beginnings. Brought up in a small town where farming was the premier industry, her parents had her take up Agricultural Engineering in college. During the pandemic, she just had the the opportunity to delve into jewelry (among her other passions), and that's where Maddox Jewelry started. When we met her, her demeanor was very warm and welcoming. With her fascination for all things gold, she got so busy these past few years garnering not only a huge clientele but celebrities, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. The difference between her and the other online sellers is that she's got a physical showroom in Marikina (AZDM Building) where she conducts appointments for those who want to see the jewelry before they purchase it. 

Here's what we saw there!

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We asked her about making investments on jewelry and what is the best time to do it and she said "There's really no BEST time to do it but NOW. As you may know, gold value is increasing over the years and if you don't get it early, you won't see the value grow. I've seen several of my clients who purchased gold and diamond pieces in the past and in a few years, the value is now 5 times of what it was then."

She adds "Jewelry is not only for women, but men too. We have several pieces that are unisex especially the classic designed ones that can be worn by men or women. Aside from that, we have celebrities like Mark Herras who got earrings with diamonds in it. (Tried to find it on display but they said it's all sold out!) We have them in different colors. We have blue diamonds, green diamonds, something that would fit your personality. We'd gladly accommodate you here as we have people who could assist you to choose the right sparkle you need for your jewelry."

Here's a bit of our talk with her that evening:

As you may have heard, her clients are mostly other jewelry sellers that source most of their wares from her. She also wished for a few A list celebrities to collaborate with her since she also does content on TikTok and Facebook. 

Her Facebook page is her only selling platform, and streams are regularly done live and deleted right after because most of the sales are done only during livestreams. If you're interested, go follow their page and watch out for schedules, it's mostly from 6pm to 12am and they're quite keen on helping entrepreneurs to start their own businesses. If you've been wanting to start your own collection, they have people to help you at their Marikina office. 

Their showroom is pretty full most of the time, it might be wise to ask for appointments through their contact numbers there. I'm off to buy a few very soon. Remember as she says, the time to invest in jewelry is now!

Super nice and very humble, she's shining bright indeed. Thank you and congratulations Ms. Charo! Here's wishing you could help more people and continued success in the business! 

Big Screen Dreams: Coco Martin, Matti, and Monteverde Team Up

When I got invited to this event, we weren't told about who's coming on stage but pretty much got clues with the shirts of the people filming it, they all had CCM printed which makes us believe it's a Coco Martin event. There were 3 chairs in front though so just seeing that made me realize it was something big, and true enough they came out with guns blazing.

One is an iconic director, of OTJ fame, Erik Matti, the other is a big producer from the Monteverde clan, Mr. Dondon Monteverde and of course, the biggest action star of this generation, producer and director Coco Martin. They plan to do 2 huge film projects for Coco particularly "MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio" and "OTJ: Maghari" which will be under Reality Studios and CCM Productions.

Sir Dondon told us that this was sealed on the sidelines after some talks happened at the death anniversary of Mother Lily Monteverde a few months ago. He says "The death anniversary of my Mom started all of this. Losing my Mom was a huge blow to the industry. We always wanted to work with Coco and we've met in events with it behind our minds. It was just an opportune time to start talking, showing him other projects. He didn't like what we presented him at first, but when he knew about these two films (not included in the discussion, he just wanted it to happen!"

Direk Erik Matti had huge success with the OTJ franchise and Coco always wanted to be part of it. Direk Erik shares "Maghari is the story of Joel, the Tatang of OTJ. It's a 90's themed movie of him protecting his family. MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio is a historical bio, and it is scary to do because it is based on that. Ours is different, we're bringing it to the future and shooting it in a modern way. It's all about what is happening now in the country." 

Coco was smitten with the thought of doing an OTJ installment and told us "When I watched OTJ, I honestly was waiting, waiting to be cast in a film like it. I required my staff to watch it (before doing Batang Quiapo) and I hoped they notice me. I asked myself and said maybe I wasn't enough, because they weren't calling me. I was silent, and thinking they were not considering me because I didn't have potential, so I tried to do one myself (his shows) but got so busy with my series. One day, they informed me that they wanted to talk about it, I told them I was waiting for this to happen. I know how folks have been appreciating Filipino films that they made, they pitched a few projects with me but I told them I was a fan of OTJ and Buybust. After that, I talked about a historical film, then they talked to me about a project they wanted to do about Bonifacio. They thought I was a fit in these two projects they didn't talk about initially."

He added "Now that we're together, we just needed to make it bigger for a global audience. This will make a mark in the Filipino film industry. I'm also working with the best, and this IS an answered prayer! We can't wait to release this in 2027!"

Here's the whole press conference on video:

Giants Coco Martin, Direk Erik Matti and Dondon Monteverde actually has plans to do more, so this is just for starters. When I asked about challenges, Coco was severely optimistic that all these projects are possible, he's always had that positivity in all his projects since he's successfully done it. He attributes most of it because of this optimism, and since they plan to release this internationally, they need your support once it comes out locally. With an internationally acclaimed actor (tons of indie films on his belt), Director (familiar with Filipino film projects released worldwide) and the best production outfits this country, these projects are pretty much a done deal. 

I just can't wait to see it! 

MESA Renews Ties with DINGDONG DANTES on their #RoadTo100

Popular modern Filipino and Asian inspired restaurant MESA just renewed their ties with Primetime King and Kapuso Star Dingdong Dantes as they continue having him as the endorser for the restaurant chain. The event was witnessed by Dong's Manager Mr. Perry Lansigan, MESA CEO Rikki Dee, their COO Eric Dee and their VP for National Operations Raymond Federigan. This continues a very effective partnership between the MESA group and Dingdong who's well identified with their brand and the life sized standees in store across the country.

Eric Dee says "We planned 120 stores last 2020, we were delayed because of obvious reasons. We are back on track this year for 2025. Our growth's reason is Mr. Dingdong Dantes, our vision of our Road to 100 is coming true. We will continue to celebrate Filipino heritage in our stores, our food, enjoyed by families all over "

Ricky Dee added "I want to thank Dingdong for coming to our lives. When we thought about it, it was unanimous. Til today we believe in him, and we are looking forward to more years of being together."

Dingdong extends his thanks for the trust given to him and said "Congratulations to the MESA group, I am so proud and honored to be part of this brand 6 years ago. Now, we are raring to be part of the road to 100 and my inclusion in it. I said a few years ago that I'll be part of it, I will be branch 88 and we will announce it very soon. To Filipino families, we will reach you, even in Hawaii. This brand will become bigger and stronger."

He adds "Our values are aligned, common goals, and we both believe in quality. Without getting into details, they will take care of me. I'm planning to put it near Sixto's school so Marian and I will be in it often. We can't wait to do that. We bond over food."

Dong adds "What the stomach experiences is the same in memories. We dine out, we eat, and I'm a foodie. I love the Crispchon and it's good to share. Being with other people, sharing it with the ones you love, it's what we do every week and it is special."

Here's some scenes from the event this morning and the press conference, please enjoy!

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With this happening this 2025, there will be more events and activations where Dingdong will be a part of and soon, more stores for him too as he said he's also planning to open one in his neck of the woods. Currently, MESA is present in Ayala Malls, Eastwood, Festival Mall, Fisher Mall, One Ayala, Robinsons Malls, SM Malls, and more. They are all under Foodie Global Concepts.

Congratulations on this continuing partnership! 

GERALD SANTOS Takes The Stage with "COURAGE" Concert

Only 2 days left before the big show as Gerald Santos takes the stage in his concert entitled "COURAGE" which takes place at the SM North Edsa SKYDOME this coming January 24th. 

The profound singer, actor and theater phenom will also perform with greats such as Erik Santos, Sheryn Regis, Elish, PPOP group ASTER, and lovely Aicelle Santos. He's going to give this his all and include a very good cause called "COURAGE MOVEMENT' aimed to help victims of abuse. As you may understand, this is very personal for him and ultimately, wants to help give a platform for those who have been silenced of this crime. He will also be launching his newest single "HUBAD'", and perform it live. 

This is produced and conceptualized by Antonino Rommel Ramilo and Echo Jam  and Visionary Entertainment. You can still get tickets via smtickets.com. Come see him perform on Friday!

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FFCCCII Honors Christmas Icon JOSE MARI CHAN

The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) recently held a luncheon for its members to signify their gratefulness to Filipino Christmas icon Jose Mari Chan. Their President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro was there to officiate the event and addressed the media on why they are honoring the Filipino Singer, Songwriter and Businessman. For those who don't know, Mr. Jose Mari Chan has been supporting FFC VII's various charities and continue to do so til now.

He plays a huge part in socio-civic charitable endeavors that the organization does, including its 170 Filipino Chinese Chambers around the country. Recently, they also held advocacy, economic relief during the calamities in communities in the Bicol region, Metro Manila which was hit by typhoons. They did this with the Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation through their networks. They also held Medical Missions and supported different rural public schools among others. They also gave assistance to several Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades that help and give assistance to different communities, no rich or poor.

Mr. Jose Mari Chan says "My songs have been part of Christmas, but it's the coming together, to come alive with care and love. We too are pinoys, let's continue to champion the spirit of bayanihan."

Dr. Pedro adds "It's all about Christ, whoever accepts him will have eternal life. Salamat throughout the year for your support, you are the ones giving services for the people. We have problems in the country but you also have to give people good news. Every Christmas celebration is about love, grace and forgiveness, then we can have Hapeeness."

Both Jose Mari Chan, Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro and the Filipino Chinese organizations pronounced their commitment in helping fellow Filipinos especially those who are in the underprivileged communities.

Easy Holiday Cooking with UFC Overload All Purpose Sauces

 

Filipinos love preparing food for the holidays, that includes the longest Christmas celebration in the world, that's in the Philippines. We know much of our recipes takes hours of prep and that means, hours of precious time spent with family, friends, loved ones too. Your favorite condiment brand UFC knows how important it is so they deviced a way to make things easier in the kitchen. Meet the new UFC Overload All Purpose Sauces!

 Now even new cooks at home can become genius overnight. You can use these sauces for tons of recipes, things that usually take hours to make can become minutes because of it. It's available in 3 flavors, made with real ingredients, they call it MEATY, CREAMY and CHEESY. 

UFC Meaty Overload has pork, beef and hotdog bits enveloped in Filipino style sauce which you can use in different dishes like pizza, spaghetti and more. UFC Creamy Overload on the other hand is an add all you can white sauce. Use it for pasta, burgers, spinach dips and milk based soups for a more creamy consistency. UFC Cheesy Overload can be topped in most dishes, like pasta, sandwiches, fries and other meals that you want ended in a cheesy state. All of these are quite versatile and be used for old school or new recipes. 

Go hoard UFC Overload All Purpose Sauces in major stores, supermarkets and even online. They also teach tons of recipes at the UFC Meal Masters FB page so follow them for more!

Razon's by Glenn: In the Business of Serving "DELIGHT!"

Filipino comfort food is always served at Razon's by Glenn. It's a company built with family - and love. Consequently, they're celebrating their 21st anniversary and are gunning to have 60 branches by years end. The chain is largely known for their Palabok, Halo Halo, Bibingmamon, Beef Tapa, Beef Kare Kare, and new innovations on the usual Filipino flare. Their menu stemmed from real Kapampangan heritage and flavors, so you don't get disappointed in what they serve.

The Beef Kare Kare is a bit sweet and can be eaten even without bagoong. The peanut sauce has home made peanut butter in it, which they made themselves. The Bibingmamon is available in 4 flavors namely Original (which I prefer), Cheesy Melt, Custard and Nutty Custard. The Beef Tapa is on the sweet, smoky, and spicy side, but quite tender. Their Fresh Lumpia is good and savory, it felt like what grandma used to make. They have a hefty serving of Pork Chop with gravy (my personal favorite served that afternoon). They also teased us with their conceptual Crispy Palabok, which I'm sure young ones and everyone would enjoy!

For those looking for something extra comforting, they've got Caldo Overload which you can ask for refills if you want more. You get the fuzzy feeling that comes with it on a rainy day.

Razon's by Glenn is third generation owned. Their grandma gave them freedom to be creative in recipes, hence the variations they made with the dishes.

Bibingmamon is quite nice, as the name says, it's a cross between the Christmasy Bibingka and the fluffy Mamon. This was quite delicate and perfect to pair with coffee.

Razon's by Glenn has always been regarded as the best spot for Halo Halo. This Special Halo Halo was quite satisfying despite it only having a few ingredients. I personally think it's the Macapuno that makes it different from the rest in the market.

We also got to talk to the owner and President Mark Anthony "Glenn" Razon. Right now, they have 36 branches operating nationwide, but aggressively plan to have 100 of these stores before 2030.

Glenn reiterated "We are not just selling products, we are providing delight!". This is the reason why people who visit their stores feel happy every time they get to taste the dishes coming out of their kitchen. It's also a family spot, so whether you're a Lola who wants their merienda fix or the cutest bunso that wants something sweet, Razon's by Glenn makes every moment special no matter what age group you belong. 

Visit their stores nationwide, or if you prefer to be part of the movement, they are looking for franchisees. Just get in touch with them via their social channels or official website razonsbyglenn.com.

Forest Lake Releases "PAGPAG" Video: A humorous take on Pinoy Superstitions

After having a few of these videos on their social channels and website, the folks at Forest Lake just recently released its 4th installment, just in time for Halloween, and they call it PAGPAG.

For those who don't know, Filipinos have this thing they do right after visiting a relative/friend/loved one from a wake, right after mourning for them in a chapel/place, they must go to a different place before they actually go home. It's a superstitious belief, that when they don't do that, spirits will actually go to their homes and become restless souls.   


Forest Lake actually uses these useful mediums to send their message across about preparing for the unexpected. According to Alfred Xerez-Burgos III their CEO and President, Filipinos desire to always have peace of mind, and telling this story would make the matter a bit light to watch and understand. This one talks about different ways to prepare, the other videos they released tackled unpredictability, bad luck and getting taller on a New Year's Eve.

This new video teaches people how to lessen stress when it come to memorial services, and the things that come with it. This also includes a serious look in what you need for yourself, or your loved ones when the time comes. To not be a burden to those you left behind, while they are already stressed from their loss. Forest Lake does Total Memorial Care services. You can do interment wherever it is possible, give free interment details, QRonicle so you can send shots and stories to family or friends, plus a Customer Portal so those who are far away could look at it online when they need to. If you want to know more, just search ForestLakeMemorialParks on Facebook, IG, and their channels.

Meet New Ride Hailing App: PeekUp

Filipinos are always looking for alternatives and with the recent high prices and hard times getting a car, this news just came at the right time. A new player in the ride hailing industry just opened shop, and they are called PeekUp. They're app is now available on the App Store and Google Play, and I've downloaded it too to give it a try.

The platform is easy to use, and utilizes Google Maps as the base. So most often than not, you will be able to find the place you are going to if it is on that too. Payments currently accept CASH and CARDS (more soon). And upon checking the vehicle types, they have Compact (4 seater) and Plus (6 seater) vehicles.

Their rates also seem a bit lower than the leading app, so you really get to have a choice now and save a few bucks using it. As for driver availability, they are still ramping up and encouraging referrals with drivers and passengers. I bet this would be good in the next few months as more drivers get to join them (6000 according to their CEO). They also have a promo of getting credits for the first ones to join them (limited numbers according to posters) and get 2000 points in the process.

In the launch event they did in SM Megamall Fashion Hall dubbed "PeekUp City", celebrities Ara Mina, Paulo Avelino and Cristine Reyes got to work up a crowd. They also encouraged the public to download the app and try them out today. 

Mr. Dave Almarinez the CEO of PeekUp Philippines says "We need to have a ride hailing up that will benefit the Filipinos, that was one year ago. PeekUp means the best experience, smooth rides. Our cars are 4 seaters and 6 seaters. It is important to always have it affordable and safe. We want students and passengers to try it out because this is 100 percent Filipino owned ride hailing app, with potential to grow in the region, and in other countries. Our dream is to have this design and app built by Filipinos to become present in other places soon."

PeekUp is on the way! Are you excited for comfort and convenience? Go download PeekUp now! You may use my referral code JOHN1254 if you plan to install it today!

PS

Ara Mina will be having a concert called Ara Mina All of Me which is her 30th Anniversary concert on July 11th at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

SINOSIKAT's Kat Agarrado Releases New Single "Heart Calling"

Looks like the heavens are conspiring when it comes to Kat Agarrado as she attempts another shot with her music. This is still with Sinosikat, a rebuilding, a new start, stemmed by her love for music. She still never thinks about her looks (though she's quite blessed with it), and puts her efforts now in making more songs so a new generation would be able to listen to it. Sinosikat doesn't have permanent band members, it's her instincts that kick in and choose them to play with her, a different setup but works.

Kat says "My goal is to make people listen to timeless pieces, that even when we're old, there's substance, and they can still listen to it. Before I was doing rock elements, but now it's more polished, matured, the arrangements now will have horn sections. My dream is to make Sinosikat a wider audience, a younger one, to put our music in other countries. I want to do that especially when I get to network with bands and producers there, because they appreciate it but just lack exposure. Our music is world class, just like Filipinos." 

She adds "I hope to also join more international festivals, and become global. I think the youth now has lots of venues to listen to music, that's good and I would like to do collaborations with artists like Lola Amour, a indie artist named Isla, there's a ton that I see on YouTube. I'm sure they have a lot to offer, fresh ideas to contribute especially for the next singles."

Here's part of the interview we did with her during the launch

Kat continued to write songs about love, about family, a bit slow but she admits just doing it at her own pace. She also does standard songs and do Filipino versions so she wouldn't get rusty. She also writes about her friends, or things she experienced during the pandemic. Though this time, she finds it divine for everything that seemed to fall into place. From Pinoy Soul Records, to Warner Music Philippines, to her own studio, this is her way to help other artists too. This is a new beginning for her, her re-introduction of Sinosikat. 

PS Heard the single just now, and I like how groovy it sounded. It's like her being hungry to do more, I would liken it to the music of international girl group "All Saints", but it's only her on vocals. Amazing!

Go stream her new single "Heart Calling" on digital platforms and get smitten with Pinoy Soul all over again. Be part of her fresh start!