Category: Escapade

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2GO Highlights Career Routes that Boost National Connectivity and Maritime Talent

2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated provider of transportation and logistics services, is not only focused on moving people and goods nationwide but is also showcasing diverse career paths in the industry through its recent participation in the JobStreet Virtual Job Fair.

The company spans various services including freight forwarding, warehousing, supply chain operations, technology, and corporate services. During the event, 2GO highlighted the importance of its people, capabilities, and culture in delivering integrated services that support communities, enterprises, and market connectivity. Edcel Francia, Senior Manager of 2GO HR Recruitment, stated, “Behind every shipment delivered, every journey completed, and every business we help serve are dedicated individuals whose work keeps the country moving. At 2GO, we are committed to fostering a workplace where people feel valued, inspired, and empowered to drive the nation forward.”

This initiative underscores the critical role of talent in sustaining the transportation and logistics sector. As businesses increasingly depend on efficient supply chains and reliable connectivity, professionals in operations, technology, customer service, sales, and other areas are vital to keeping goods and services flowing.

With approximately 1,800 employees in operational, technical, and corporate roles, 2GO’s workforce reflects the diverse expertise necessary for a well-integrated network. Positions in cross-docking, warehousing, operations, and vessel management contribute to the efficient movement of goods, while teams in software development, finance, business intelligence, and marketing drive performance and innovation.

The initiative attracted significant interest from job seekers in transportation and logistics, with JobStreet reporting 597 completed applications during the promotion—a 21% increase compared to the previous rate—and a 12% rise in job views.

Developing a skilled workforce is essential not only for individual firms but also to align with broader industry goals. The World Bank’s 2026 report, “Ports, Ships, and Fuels: Maritime Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainability in East Asia and the Pacific,” emphasizes that maritime transport is a key driver of employment and growth, advocating for improved efficiency, enhanced safety, and training to adapt to a changing sector.

For the Philippines, an archipelagic nation reliant on maritime links and logistics for business and community connections, the report highlights the importance of training professionals in vessel and port operations, supply chain management, and technology.

By promoting the varied roles available in transportation and logistics, 2GO contributes to wider discussions on workforce development in a sector critical to trade, mobility, and economic growth. As the industry evolves, building a capable and resilient workforce will be crucial for maintaining links among communities, businesses, and opportunities across the Philippines.

Through these efforts, 2GO remains dedicated to connecting Filipinos with meaningful career opportunities while supporting the talent pipeline in the expanding fields of transportation, maritime, and logistics. Each position contributes to the mission of keeping the Philippines connected.

Interested applicants can find available positions on 2GO’s JobStreet employer page and its official website at 2GO.com.ph.

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Enchanted Kingdom marks its 31st Anniversary with enhanced AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY and a night of OPM music

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, renews its commitment to sustainability and biodiversity as it celebrates its 31st Anniversary with the second set of enhancements to its award-winning flying theater, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY this October.

As a highlight of its Fiesta ng Saribuhay anniversary campaign, EK will continue to share more enchanting stories of Saribuhay through the attraction’s new and enhanced pre- and post-show experiences that showcase the rich biodiversity of the Philippines and reinforce its call for Filipinos to appreciate and take care of our environment.

Among the enhancements is Kwento ng Agila, an immersive walkthrough accessible upon entering the AGILA building. Through immersive visuals and storytelling, the new entry experience takes guests behind the scenes, revealing the attraction’s inspiration, the symbolism behind its architecture, and its development by an all-Filipino team.

Further along the walkthrough, guests will be introduced to the world of the Agila, or Philippine eagle, through a glimpse of its natural habitat and the various species that thrive within its ecosystem. It also traces the lifecycle of the Agila, highlighting its plight as one of the critically endangered birds in the world.

This builds on EK’s steadfast commitment to eagle conservation, earlier demonstrated by its adoption and continued support for the care and breeding of Enchanting Kagitingan, a male Philippine eagle, in partnership with the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

Additionally, the immersive experience extends beyond the atrium lobby, as augmented reality (AR) brings the landing queue leading to the Enchanted Forest to life through the guests’ smartphones.

EK has also given PUGAD, the attraction’s in-house concept store, a new direction as part of the AGILA improvements. The refreshed retail space will now incorporate an enchanting mix of entertainment and learning to encapsulate the overall AGILA experience.

The attraction’s existing facilities remain operational and accessible to all guests, while its newly updated areas will officially launch on October 17.

Almost a decade after its launch, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY was reimagined in October 2025, placing renewed focus not only on tourism but also on sustainability and appreciation for the country’s natural heritage. It was later recognized as the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) in January 2026.

EK celebrates its 31st Anniversary with Fiesta ng Saribuhay

EK is all set to celebrate its 31st Anniversary as it releases more updates on its events, shows, and other offerings throughout October.

Following the announcement of its anniversary events in late August, the theme park has unveiled the complete lineup of performers at its Fiesta ng Saribuhay Concert on October 17 at the Spaceport Grounds. The spectacular night will showcase world-class Filipino music and talent through live performances by award-winning R&B hitmaker Dionela, 1Z Entertainment’s rising P-pop girl group XONARA, indie band Sacred Red, and other up-and-coming artists, alongside EK’s homegrown talents, SMS and Kingsmen.

The celebration will culminate in the Lipad ng Agila: A Pyromusical Fiesta, giving EK’s signature evening send-off a magical twist as vibrant pyrotechnic displays and symbolic imagery bring the spirit of the festivities to the night sky.

Every weekend in October, the EK Storyverse Characters will bring all the magic and excitement across the park’s themed zones during the Fiesta ng Saribuhay Anniversary Parade. And on October 17, street dance performers will join in the parade as it serves as a festive prelude to the concert proper.

Meanwhile, Run to 31: Takbo ng Saribuhay, a fun run celebrating biodiversity through fitness and togetherness, will take place on October 11 in partnership with the United RSBS Boulevard Stakeholders Federation (URSF). Registration is now open at the EK Online Store, with 1.5K, 3K, and 5K routes available for interested participants.

SMS and Kingsmen will also mark the park’s 31st anniversary with new music. The P-pop girl group will release their rendition of Lipad, while the all-male vocal group has re-recorded a festive version of their song, Saribuhay. Both tracks will soon be available on all major streaming platforms.

Meanwhile, parkgoers can immerse themselves in other seasonal experiences at the Agila Grounds, including the Ube-Matcha Festival from October 14 to 18, which showcases the fusion of local flavors with other well-loved favorites, and Palarong Pinoy, a set of skill-based activities featuring traditional Filipino street games, launching just in time for the main anniversary festivities.

More in-park food options also await Filipinos as EK welcomes new tenant partners, with Minimelts launched in September and Mango Royal scheduled to open on October 3.

*Schedules are subject to change with prior notice.

For more information and updates on EK’s 31st Anniversary Celebration and its other events and offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram.

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Holiday Spending Made Smarter and Simpler with BDO Pay

The “BER” months mark the start of the country’s most anticipated holiday season. As families prepare for gift shopping and festive celebrations, making every peso count becomes important when planning meaningful reunions to create lasting memories.

With expenses likely to pile up, BDO Pay helps Filipinos stretch their budget by offering free money transfers, seamless QR payments, and bill payments without extra charges. It’s your reliable and secure everyday payment app for all holiday transactions, from shopping to settling bills, and even sending Aguinaldo.

With BDO Pay, enjoy convenient, secure, and no-fee transactions throughout the holidays—and beyond.

Your all-in-one holiday payment app

The season means more gatherings, more purchases, and more expenses. BDO Pay keeps transactions simple, secure, and cost-efficient, so you can focus on celebrations instead of fees.

    • Pay instantly with no fees for all transactions. Scan any QRPh code to pay directly from your BDO account or debit card, or choose Scan to Pay with your BDO credit card using the BDO Pay POS terminal.
    • Send gifts without fees. Send Aguinaldo to inaanaks or split expenses with relatives at no cost. With BDO Pay’s Send Money feature, you can transfer funds to BDO accounts, other banks, and e-wallets for free using an account number, QR code, or mobile number.
    • Stay on top of bills. Settle dues to over 2,200 billers, like electricity, transportation, water services, and telecommunications, all without fees. Amid the holiday rush, pay on time without lining up or juggling multiple apps, and enjoy BDO Pay’s all-in-one convenient platform.

Easy access for first-time users

For those who have yet to discover BDO Pay, there’s never been a better time to start.

Opening a basic account through the BDO Pay app is quick and hassle-free. Customers can open an account in just a few minutes using only one valid ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, with no initial deposit or balance maintenance required, making banking accessible to more Filipinos.

BDO Pay also makes everyday transactions effortless and secure. Easily collect shared expenses with Request Money, access installment offers for big purchases, and stay protected with instant card lock for your BDO Credit and Debit Cards whenever needed.

This season of giving, BDO Pay Mo Na!

Holiday spending is in full swing, but managing your everyday payments can be hassle-free. With BDO Pay, you have everything you need in one easy-to-use app that lets you spend smart, enjoy the festivities, and make your every peso count.

Download BDO Pay today from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Huawei AppGallery (HarmonyOS).

 

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11 ASEAN Member States and ASEAN Partner Countries in One Immersive Exhibition in Manila on November 10 to 12, 2026

“Way of the Weave,” the central theme of the ASEAN Trade Expo 2026, will bring the cultures, craftsmanship, and enterprises of ASEAN countries and Southeast Asian partners to Okada Manila from November 10 to 12, 2026, as one of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship flagship events.

For three days, Manila will become a meeting point for ASEAN’s artisans, women entrepreneurs, cultural industries, buyers, investors, and government leaders, creating a space where heritage is not simply displayed but also connected to markets and new opportunities.

The exhibition is expected to bring together more than 200 ASEAN women-led enterprises and cultural industry participants and attract international buyers, investors, trade ministers, and regional decision-makers.

Where cultures meet, and business begins

The regional showcase allows each ASEAN country, including Southeast Asian country partners, to showcase through country booths their nation’s products and enterprises, reflecting their character, creativity, and economic potential. To date, leading the country booth exhibition are the Philippines and Singapore, each with a 24 sq meter full country setting.

Visitors can explore textiles, woven traditions, handicrafts, cultural products, local goods, and women-led enterprise offerings.

The Philippine Booth Tells Its Story Through the Weave

The Philippines is home to generations of indigenous weaving traditions, each carrying its own language of color, technique, identity, and community. At the Philippine showcase, visitors will see top weaves represented by the island winners of the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards 2026, along with handicrafts and other products that showcase the best of Philippine craftsmanship and creativity.

Among the Philippine traditions that will be highlighted are the T’nalak of the T’boli, Yakan of Basilan, and Inabel of the Ilocos, alongside weaving traditions from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and BARMM. A highlight is the Aklan pina, a notable handloom weaving officially recognized by the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage of the Unity.

These pieces are more than beautiful displays. They embody knowledge shared across generations, communities relying on their craft for livelihood, and enterprises expanding from local to global markets. This is the story the Philippine booth brings to the ASEAN stage: that cultural heritage can be both a source of identity and a source of economic opportunity.

The top weaves at the Philippine showcase booth are mainly the works of winners from the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards 2026, a recognition mounted in partnership with the Women’s Business Council Philippines, GalingPook Foundation, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Commission on Women, DOST – Philippine Textile Research Institute, and TESDA.

A shared future, woven together

Ultimately, the Way of the Weave: ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 is envisioned not simply as a trade exhibition but as a meeting point where ASEAN’s diverse cultures, enterprises, and opportunities come together to create stronger connections across borders.

Led by women entrepreneurs, PCW Commissioner Rosemarie Rafael, concurrent Chairperson and Founder of Airspeed Group of Companies, with Myrna Yao as Co-Chair, CEO of Richprime Global Inc. and concurrent PCW Commissioner, along with Dr Karen De Asis, a 2025 ASEAN Women Entrepreneur (AWEN) awardee, founder of MKS Marketing Consulting, who represented the Philippines for her advocacy of helping family businesses develop and build strong brands that continue to become category-dominant market leaders or challengers through generations.

The ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 invites ASEAN member countries to showcase their nation’s weaves, as well as local and international visitors to experience the region’s products, stories, and possibilities. There will be free visitor registration and business matching available on an opt-in basis. More than an exhibition, Way of the Weave seeks to leave visitors with a simple proposition: that when ASEAN’s people, enterprises, heritage, and ambitions are woven together, the region’s shared future becomes stronger, more connected, and more open to the world.

Way of the Weave: ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 is organized with WomenBizPH, the Philippine Country Local Organization of the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs’ Network under ASEAN-BAC Philippines. For partnership, exhibition, and event inquiries, the ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 Secretariat may be reached at partners@aseantradeexpo.com or womenbizph.secretariat@gmail.com, or by phone at +63 917 126 3211.

More information is available at www.womenbiz.ph.

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2GO Gives BEACON Expo 2026 Exhibitors a Smoother Route from Setup to Showcase

For exhibitors, a successful trade show starts long before the doors open. From transporting booth materials and securing permits to coordinating ingress and pull-out schedules, event logistics can be just as critical as the products and services being showcased.

At BEACON Expo 2026, around 300 maritime businesses are set to experience a more streamlined approach to event logistics, with 2GO serving as the official logistics partner and event forwarder for the country’s premier maritime trade exhibition.

The initiative is designed to take some of the complexity out of event preparation through 2GO-SMX Events Logistics, a centralized permit and logistics facilitation system created by 2GO Group, SMX Convention Center, Central Business Park (CBP), and SM Estates.

The system builds on the partnership recently established among the four organizations to make event operations within the SMX Convention Center and the Mall of Asia Complex more efficient and coordinated.

Making Event Logistics More Seamless

For businesses participating in major exhibitions, logistics involves much more than simply moving equipment from one location to another. Exhibitors need to navigate permits, venue requirements, delivery schedules, ingress procedures, booth setup, and eventually the pull-out of materials after the event.

2GO-SMX Events Logistics brings these requirements together under a more centralized process.

Through the initiative, 2GO facilitates permit applications for exhibitors and contractors, coordinates endorsements with SM Estates, processes submissions with CBP, and provides logistics support throughout ingress, event operations, and pull-out.

The goal is straightforward: reduce administrative work for exhibitors while helping ensure that venue and estate requirements are properly addressed.

“By simplifying logistics and permit facilitation, we allow exhibitors to focus on what matters most: showcasing their products, engaging with customers, and contributing to industry development,” said Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding.

“Through 2GO-SMX Events Logistics, we are providing a single point of coordination that streamlines processes and supports exhibitors from preparation through event completion.”

Getting Exhibitors Ready Before the Expo

To help participants navigate the process, 2GO recently hosted an exhibitors’ briefing ahead of BEACON Expo 2026.

The session brought together the Maritime League of the Philippines, exhibitors, contractors, SMX venue managers, media representatives, and 2GO logistics teams to align expectations and requirements before the event.

Participants were briefed on event requirements, booth protocols, logistics procedures, venue operations, and important timelines. By providing these details ahead of time, exhibitors have an opportunity to plan their deliveries and setup activities more effectively and minimize potential operational delays.

Supporting the Maritime Industry

BEACON Expo 2026 carries the theme “Empowering Maritime Excellence: Advancing a Sustainable Blue Economy,” bringing together maritime industry leaders, regulatory partners, suppliers, and businesses from across the country.

With hundreds of participating businesses, effective coordination becomes an important part of creating a productive exhibition environment.

The 2GO-SMX Events Logistics framework is designed to strengthen coordination among the different stakeholders involved—from exhibitors and contractors to venue operators and regulatory authorities.

By bringing these groups into a more integrated logistics process, the partnership aims to create a smoother experience throughout the entire event cycle, from preparation and ingress to the actual exhibition and eventual pull-out.

Beyond Logistics

The collaboration highlights how logistics can play a bigger role in the success of industry events.

For exhibitors, having a centralized system for permits, transportation, and venue coordination can mean less time dealing with administrative requirements and more time focusing on business opportunities, networking, and engaging with customers.

As preparations for BEACON Expo & Conference 2026 continue, 2GO’s partnership with SMX Convention Center, CBP, and SM Estates demonstrates how integrated logistics solutions can help make major industry gatherings more organized and efficient—while supporting the evolving needs of the Philippine maritime sector.

For more information about 2GO and its services, visit 2GO Philippines.

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The Season of Tribute: A New Way to Celebrate the People Who Matter

The “Ber” months are here—and in the Philippines, that means the holiday spirit is already beginning to unfold.

But before the Christmas parties, reunions, gift-giving, and festive gatherings take over our calendars, The Tribute Hotel is inviting everyone to pause and celebrate something even more meaningful: the people who make life worth celebrating.

This September, the hotel launches “The Season of Tribute,” a heartfelt campaign built around a simple question:

Who deserves your tribute?

It could be your parents or grandparents who have always been there. A partner who makes ordinary days special. Friends who have stayed through the years. A mentor who helped shape your journey. Colleagues and employees whose hard work often goes unnoticed. Or even an everyday hero who deserves to hear, “Thank you.”

A tribute doesn’t always have to come wrapped in a box.

Sometimes, it’s a meal shared around a table. A weekend spent together. A long-overdue catch-up with an old friend. A quiet celebration with someone special. Or simply creating a moment that tells someone, “You matter.”

And that is where The Tribute Hotel hopes to make the season even more memorable.

Turn Gratitude Into an Experience

Located in Quezon City, near the vibrant Tomas Morato district, The Tribute Hotel offers a welcoming setting for the moments that deserve to be remembered.

Gather the family for a meal at Don Tomas, enjoy a relaxing city staycation with someone special, or bring your favorite people together for an intimate celebration.

Because sometimes, the best way to show appreciation isn’t by finding the perfect gift—it’s by making time for the people who matter.

The Season of Tribute is designed to carry that spirit throughout the final months of the year, with each month shining a light on a different group of people deserving of recognition.

October: A Tribute to the People Behind the Work

As companies begin preparing for year-end celebrations, October turns the spotlight toward employees, teams, colleagues, and partners.

These are the people who help turn ideas into results, keep businesses moving, and make achievements possible. It’s a perfect time to step away from the daily routine and celebrate the people behind the work.

November: A Tribute to the Journey

November takes on especially meaningful significance for The Tribute Hotel as it celebrates its second anniversary.

The milestone becomes an opportunity to recognize the guests, employees, partners, and community members who have been part of the hotel’s journey.

Two years is more than a number—it’s a collection of stories, connections, celebrations, and memories.

December: A Tribute to Togetherness

And then comes December—the heart of the Filipino holiday season.

The Season of Tribute culminates in a celebration of togetherness, welcoming families, friends, balikbayans, colleagues, and loved ones for Christmas parties, reunions, holiday stays, and festive gatherings.

After all, the holidays have always been about coming home to the people who matter.

Give More Than a Gift

The holiday season often becomes a race to find the perfect present.

But perhaps this year, the more meaningful gift is something that cannot be bought: time, appreciation, and a moment together.

The Season of Tribute encourages everyone to start the giving season with gratitude—to look around and recognize the people whose presence, kindness, hard work, love, or friendship has made a difference.

So, before the gifts are wrapped and the Christmas lights go up, take a moment to ask yourself:

Who deserves your tribute?

Then make the moment count.

The Season of Tribute at The Tribute Hotel.
Give more than a gift. Give a tribute.

Managed with pride by Approche Hospitality Management Corporation, The Tribute Hotel continues to uphold warm Filipino hospitality, personalized service, and meaningful guest experiences—creating spaces where celebrations become memories and ordinary gatherings become moments worth remembering.