Category: Feature

Posted on

2GO Travel Joins DTI’s OTOP Program to Promote Local Products Across the Philippines

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and 2GO, the best sea travel company in the Philippines, have teamed up to promote locally made goods through the One Town, One Product (OTOP) program and its Biyahe2Business campaign.

The goal of the partnership is to make regional micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) more visible in the market by displaying their OTOP products in special kiosks on 2GO Travel ships. This program turns every trip into a showcase of Filipino pride, regional flavors, and craftsmanship.

The Biyahe2Business program officially launches the partnership by showcasing OTOP products from Region 12. The local DTI office will work with MV 2GO Masinag to set up a special OTOP nook on board that will show off accredited products. Soon, more OTOP displays from other areas will be on more 2GO ships.

This project backs DTI’s Supply Chain and Logistics Center (SCLC), which gives MSMEs real-time logistics information, market connections, and programs to help them grow.

“This partnership lets DTI regional offices bring and promote their goods across islands using creative and practical logistics solutions,” said Flora D. Politud-Gabunales, CESO V, DTI-12 Regional Director and DTI-RAPID Growth Project National Director. ” 2GO has made it easier for MSMEs to reach more customers and for travelers to learn about real Filipino food and crafts from all over the country.”

The partnership fits with 2GO Travel’s ongoing goal to help small businesses by making it easier for them to get transportation and logistics help through the 2GO Travel Biyahe2Business platform. With this program, 2GO connects local business owners with bigger markets. This makes sure that Filipino-made goods can travel as far and as proudly as the people who make them.

Francis John Chua, Business Unit Head for 2GO Travel, said, “This partnership shows our long-term commitment to helping small businesses succeed by giving them flexible, affordable, and reliable transportation options.” ” Our generous 50 kg luggage allowance makes it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to move their goods and supplies between islands.” This benefit helps them grow and reach more people. We at 2GO think that sea travel is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s also about bringing people together, celebrating culture, and making business possible. ” We’re bringing the best of each region to more Filipinos through this program.”

2GO Travel, DTI’s official travel and logistics partner, will do more than just show off local goods. They will also offer group tour packages and special travel discounts for MSMEs. These programs will give business owners reliable and affordable ways to get around. 2GO keeps making trade and business easier across the country by adding new direct routes from Manila to major trade centers like Iloilo, Bacolod, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, and its newest stops, Davao and General Santos City.

As part of the deal, 2GO will also offer consulting and logistics advice that is specific to the needs of MSMEs and help set up Logistics Support Desks at certain Negosyo Centers in important areas.

If you have questions about travel and logistics deals just for MSMEs, email tours_groups@2go.com. ph.

Posted on

Forever Enchanted: Enchanted Kingdom Celebrates Three Decades of Magic

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, proudly marks its 30th Anniversary with a grand celebration on October 18 and 19, Saturday and Sunday. The premier theme park is working their magic to celebrate three decades of magical memories with an unforgettable concert series and festive surprises that promise to leave everyone forever enchanted.

The two-day festivities will feature the EK’s first-ever projection mapping show, Wheel of Fate: The Magical Journey of Eldar the Wizard. Guests will also enjoy the Echoes of Enchantment Grand Parade, a special showcase of EK’s beloved Storyverse characters led by the iconic Eldar the Wizard. These nighttime spectacles will start at 6:00 in the evening.

Gabi ng Saribuhay: An Enchanting Filipino Concert

On the night of October 18, Enchanted Kingdom proudly welcomes homegrown talents back to its stage for a star-studded anniversary celebration.

Returning are former EK performers who have made their mark in the entertainment industry—powerhouse vocalist Gigi de Lana and Sinag Maynila 2025 Best Actress and Sparkle diva, Rita Daniela. Adding more magic to the evening is acclaimed singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rob Deniel, who will captivate guests with his music. The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the nation’s premier orchestras, will deliver a majestic performance that will make the night even more enchanting.

Also joining the celebration are Mauie Francisco and Mitzi Casacop—both former EK performers as well and now GMA Sparkle artists—who will give a special performance in an exclusive event.

The first night of the celebration will end with a grand The Magic of Saribuhay: A Pyromusic Spectacle.

The Next Chapter of Enchantment

On October 19, the Forever Enchanted Live: EK’s 30th Anniversary Concert will take center stage, featuring one of OPM’s most iconic bands, Parokya ni Edgar, and this generation’s top band, Cup of Joe. Alternative rock band Over October will bring fresh energy to the celebration.

Capping off the festivities, the Memories of Magic: Sky Wizardry EKstravaganza will light up the night sky with a breathtaking pyromusical show, commemorating Enchanted Kingdom’s three decades of creating magical memories that last a lifetime for all Filipinos.

AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY and Space Shuttle Re-opening

One of the major highlights of Enchanted Kingdom’s 30th Anniversary celebration is the reopening of AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY, the first and only flying theater in the Philippines. Reinforcing the park’s commitment to sustainability, the attraction offers guests an educational and fully immersive journey through an enhanced film that showcases the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and natural wonders.

“SARIBUHAY is more than just an experience—it is a powerful call to action,” said Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, Chief Operating Officer of Enchanted Kingdom. “Beyond its mission to promote the beauty of the Philippines and drive tourism, AGILA reminds us of the urgent need to conserve the environment and protect our wildlife.”

Dr. Mamon also emphasized that admission to the majestic flying theater is already included in the park’s regular day pass as part of EK’s Education Program. “Enchanted Kingdom welcomes 600,000 students each year, as we offer EK as an alternative classroom where they can learn through our Physics Behind the Rides and our Botany in the Park, among others. With AGILA the EKsperience: SARIBUHAY, we want to be able to contribute in ensuring that our next generation of leaders are equipped with awareness on the importance of protecting biodiversity,” she furthered.

Plus, thrill-seekers have even more to look forward to as the iconic Space Shuttle makes its highly anticipated comeback this October—now reimagined with an immersive thematic experience and enhanced ride system technology, ensuring an even safer, smoother, and more exhilarating adventure with every twist and turn.

Enchanting New Songs

True to its aspiration in cultivating Filipino talent, EK’s homegrown P-pop girl group, SMS, has released their new original song, Forever Enchanted. EK’s premier all-male vocal group, Kingsmen, has also released their music, Enchanting Memories.

 New Anniversary Merchandise and Food Offerings

As part of its 30th Anniversary celebration, Enchanted Kingdom will also delight guests with exclusive food offerings crafted especially for this milestone year. Families and friends can look forward to indulging in limited-edition treats such as Agila Pops macarons, PanSisig crispy noodles, Biggie Burrito, Soy Good Chicken, and the playful Dino Surprise.

EK has released commemorative shirts featuring the park’s iconic rides, as well as new AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY merchandise. The beloved prehistoric-themed concept store for kids, Stone Age, is also back—giving guests more ways to celebrate and bring home a piece of Enchanted Kingdom magic.

For more information and updates regarding EK’s 30th Anniversary Celebration along with EK’s other forever enchanting offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and TikTok and @ek_philippines for Instagram.

Posted on

The 18th Reggie Padua Cup: Giving Hope to Kids in Need

What began as a golf tournament blossomed into a day filled with purpose, camaraderie, and heartfelt advocacy. The 18th Reggie Padua Cup Invitational Golf Tournament, held at the scenic Hallow Ridge Filipinas Golf Inc. in San Pedro, Laguna, proved once again that sport can be a powerful force for unity and change.

Organized with precision and passion by SOCEX Consulting Corporation and the UP Triskelion Alumni, Inc. (UPTAI), the event gathered nearly a hundred spirited participants—brothers, sisters, and proud members of the Triskelion community. But this wasn’t just about fairways and birdies. Every swing, every putt, and every cheer was aimed at a shared goal: raising funds for the Hematology Unit of the National Children’s Hospital (NCH). The proceeds will help provide dialysis treatments and life-saving medication for young patients—an embodiment of the Triskelion values of fraternity, freedom, and strength.

Now in its second year, the Reggie Padua Cup has grown into a benchmark of excellence. The 2025 edition shattered records with the highest number of sponsors, raffle prizes, and competitors to date. Thanks to the expert stewardship of SOCEX, the tournament didn’t just run smoothly—it resonated deeply.

The Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity also lent its full support, reinforcing the event’s core message: that brotherhood and community service go hand in hand.

A diverse roster of supporters backed the Hole-in-One challenges and tournament highlights, including major automakers, golf gear brands, equipment suppliers, and generous donors. Their presence wasn’t just about visibility—it was a vote of confidence in the cause and in SOCEX’s ability to deliver high-impact, purpose-driven events.

“We don’t just run programs—we build partnerships that transform lives,” said Cholo Calimag, CEO of SOCEX Consulting Corporation. His words echoed the spirit of the day: that real impact comes from collaboration, compassion, and commitment.

To all the sponsors, partners, and participants—thank you. Your unwavering support made this year’s tournament not just a success but a celebration of what’s possible when purpose meets passion.

The Reggie Padua Cup continues to be more than a tournament. It’s a movement. A legacy. This is a step towards a better tomorrow.

See you on the green next year!

For inquiries on public relations, brand activation, or management consulting, reach out to chief.ops@socexconsulting.com or gen.admin@socexconsulting.com.

Posted on

Your Final Shot: Scan to Pay with GCash and Win a Trip to the NBA China Games 2025

Are you a huge fan of the NBA? Prepare to witness the action on the court closer than ever before! You have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the NBA China Games 2025 at The Venetian Arena in Macao thanks to GCash.

Two lucky winners will each get two tickets to see the Brooklyn Nets play the Phoenix Suns live, as well as airfare and somewhere to stay.

Your Ticket to the NBA China Games

If you use GCash Scan to Pay to make a purchase for P4,000 or more between September 22 and 30, 2025, you will get one digital scratch card for every transaction.

One lucky person will win a pair of two tickets to the NBA China Game on October 10 and a Fan Meet & Greet pass on October 11. The winner will also get a round-trip ticket and a place to stay. Another winner will get a round-trip ticket and a place to stay for the NBA China Games on October 12.

You can also win GCash | Travel+ and GCash | Alipay+ Overseas Offline vouchers, which is even better. You can use these to pay for flights, hotels, eSims, vehicle rentals, and things you buy in stores.

To sign up, all you have to do is go onto your GCash app and go to the Alipay+ Destination Campaign page. During the promotion period, each registered user can win up to five scratch cards. So the more you use GCash overseas, the better your chances of winning!

Traveling with GCash is easy and stylish.

Your travel abroad will go more smoothly than a fast break with GCash Scan to Pay. You may use GCash at more than 80 million Alipay+ merchants, whether you’re eating street food in Thailand and Malaysia, viewing the sights in Japan and South Korea, or shopping for the latest fashions in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macao. You can use Scan-to-Pay at retailers, restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores, just like you can at home.

What is the best part? You will always get real-time, competitive foreign exchange rates with no service fees, which will help you make the most of your money for more memorable experiences. Plus, you can see your wallet balance in the local currency right away, so you can keep track of your spending without missing a second of the action. When you utilize GCash Alipay+ Scan to Pay, you can get special prices and offers that you can’t get anywhere else.

It’s easy to pay for things with GCash. To make a payment, just touch QR on the dashboard, scan the merchant’s QR code, enter the amount, and confirm the payment. You can also choose “Generate QR,” then “Pay abroad with Alipay+,” and show your QR to the cashier to have it scanned. You will then get a receipt in both the local currency and the Philippine peso.

Your next vacation abroad could be your chance to see exciting courtside action and have a wonderful time traveling. Scan to pay with GCash today and try to win tickets to the NBA China Games 2025.

Are you ready for your next trip? You can get the GCash app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. You can do it!

To see all the details of the promo, go to the GCash app.
According to DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-236852 Series of 2025

 

Posted on

Tap, Scan, or Card? GCash Offers 3 Ways to Go Cashless on Your MRT-3 Commute

Commuters can now choose their own way to pay for MRT-3 rides using their GCash wallet

Every MRT-3 commuter knows the struggle of having to line up for tickets and fumbling for spare change, especially during rush hour. Starting this month, you can now use GCash to pay for your MRT-3 trips, making everyday commuting faster and easier!

In partnership with the Department of Transportation, GCash has introduced a cashless automated fare collection system at the MRT-3, significantly enhancing the commuter journey. Now, you can pay for your trips in new, easy ways, saving you from long queues and giving you access to a dedicated MRT fast lane. As long as you have a PHP 28 minimum balance in your GCash wallet (the maximum fare for a North Avenue-Taft trip), you’re ready to go! The full amount will be deducted upon entry, and your change will be reflected on your GCash wallet upon exit—you can verify the details on your app’s Transaction History.

Forget cash or exact coins—your exact fare is seamlessly deducted from your GCash wallet. You can always check your balance and easily top up anytime, because you’re using your e-wallet directly. Best of all, your phone with the GCash app or GCash Visa Card is all you need!

Here are new, easy ways you can use GCash at the MRT-3:

Tap to Pay using your phone.

Are you using an NFC-enabled Android phone? Great news! Your device is now your ticket for a seamless entry and exit pass.

To get started, GCash Tap to Pay is a quick, one-time activation:

    1. Simply tap Settings in your GCash app.
    2. Turn on the NFC feature.
    3. Log in to your GCash account.
    4. Select “Tap to Pay” and agree to the terms and conditions..

Once activated, paying for your MRT-3 ride is just two taps away. Just log in and open your GCash app, then tap your phone on the turnstile upon entry to proceed to the platform.

Scan your GCash Commute QR

There is no NFC available for tapping. No worries! You can still enjoy the convenience of cashless commuting by generating a Commute QR code on your GCash app, serving as your digital ticket without the need to input any station details.

Here’s how easy it is:

    1. At the start of the trip, tap Commute on the GCash app.
    2. Click Generate QR. You may download the QR or take a screenshot.
    3. In the MRT fast lane, position your phone toward the scanner.
    4. Once scanned, you’re all set to proceed to the train platform.

Upon exit, just scan the same QR code again, and the exact fare will be automatically deducted from your account. For Globe and TM users, this feature works even without mobile data!

Tap your GCash Visa Card

Are you experiencing a spotty signal, running out of battery, or do you simply prefer using a card? You can still breeze through your MRT-3 ride using your GCash Visa Card. Just like the current card ticketing system, you can simply tap your card upon entry and again upon exit. What’s excellent about the GCash Visa Card is that it’s linked to your GCash wallet for a leveled-up experience! You don’t need to line up to load; you can use it not only to pay for MRT rides but also for shopping at millions of online and offline stores, and you can withdraw from your GCash at any ATM for as low as P10. During the soft launch of the cards, your change will be credited to your GCash account 24 hours after your MRT trip. See the details on your app’s Transaction History.

To use this convenient feature, order your GCash Visa Card on the app, and when you receive it, make sure to link it to your GCash account:

    1. Tap ‘Cards’ in the GCash app to order or link your GCash Visa Card.
    2. To order—select ‘Order a Card,’ then input your delivery address and pay P250. It will be delivered to you in 7-10 days.
    3. To link, select ‘Link my Card,’ then input the One-Time Pin (OTP) and submit.
    4. Enter the last 4 digits of your card and your virtual account number found at the back, then submit.

With new convenient ways to pay at the MRT-3 station, your everyday commute just got a significant upgrade. Whether you tap, scan, or use your card, you are not just skipping one extra line and saving yourself time but also experiencing a global, innovative way to pay with GCash!

Ready to power up your commute journey? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

Posted on

Catriona Gray Takes the Philippines by Storm at the SMX Convention Center’s Taiwan Excellence Pavilion

From September 17th through the 19th, the SMX Convention Center in Manila will host the 2025 Taiwan Expo. Among the displays showcased was the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, which showcased cutting-edge products under the banner of “Inspiring Tomorrow: Solutions for a Brighter Life.” Guests at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion were treated to a meet-and-greet with Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, and a live autograph signing session.
Distinguished guests from prominent Taiwanese institutions, including TAITRA President and CEO Mr. Simon Wang and TECO Director of the Economic Division Ms. Josephine Shun, were in attendance at the press conference to announce the opening of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion in the Philippines.

Representatives of leading Taiwan brands and institutions posed for a group photo after presenting their products on the first day of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. From left to right: Mr. Joseph Aquino (Zyxel Networks), Mr. George Pascua (Team Group), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Simon Wang (President and CEO, TAITRA), Ms. Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper Life), and Ms. Charge Lu (HEPTY).

On the pavilion, Mr. Simon Wang delivered his message. We are pleased to represent TAITRA in bringing the Taiwan Quality Pavilion, a symbol of Taiwanese innovation and quality, to the Philippines. Taiwan is truly dedicated to developing solutions that enhance life while maintaining high levels of quality; all of these items showcase this commitment by their smart design, modern technology, and practicality.

Ms. Josephine Shun also addressed the measures taken by Taiwan to raise the standard of living for everyone. The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion represents the national conviction of Taiwan that technological advancements should benefit society as a whole by enhancing people’s quality of life in lasting and significant ways. We are thrilled to be a part of the Pavilion and let Taiwan’s leading businesses shine on an international platform. By doing so, we hope to encourage cooperation and highlight the ways our ideas may contribute to a better future.

Visit the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion for a chance to meet Catriona Gray, the 2018 Miss Universe.

Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, saying hello to fans as she goes on a tour of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines, held at the SMX Convention Center.

Catriona Gray made a surprise appearance at the press briefing to celebrate the official opening of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion after a brief tour with Mr. Simon Wang and Fu Bear from Taiwan Excellence. Numerous admirers and guests at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion also took advantage of the beauty queen’s complimentary meet-and-greet and live autograph signing occasion.

It is a tremendous privilege to be present at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion today. Seeing these creative solutions from Taiwan makes me hopeful for a brighter future. With any luck, the Filipino people will make the most of the opportunities presented by this pavilion, and I pray that we can all return home inspired by the hope for a better future that we share with Taiwan and the Philippines. The renowned beauty queen emphasized the importance of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion in her speech to the Filipino people.

During the Taiwan Expo, Catriona Gray explored the many booths showcasing Taiwanese enterprises and services as part of the Gimme Five Parade.

Presentations of Taiwanese Products in the 2025 Taiwan Expo’s Excellence Pavilion

Visitors to the pavilion on September 17 could also hear product presentations from well-known Taiwanese companies. Distinguished representatives from the following Taiwanese organizations and businesses shared their thoughts during the presentations:Team Group’s Mr. George Pascua, Zyxel Networks’ Mr. Joseph Aquino, and HEPTY’s Charge Lu are all affiliated with Vinxper Life.

Present in the pavilion are wares from a wide variety of industries, including eco-friendly electronics, cutting-edge healthcare, and smart home appliances. The three main categories—Comfortable Life, Smart City, and Greener Future—organize products and activities, symbolizing Taiwan’s dedication to finding innovative solutions to enhance everyone’s quality of life.

Along with the product displays, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion offered engaging games, a chance to meet and take pictures with Fu Bear, and free presents to guests.

Visit the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at the SMX Convention Center for Taiwan Expo 2025.

Until September 19, the SMX Convention Center will be hosting the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at the 2025 Taiwan Expo. Interact with the services personally and meet with representatives of top Taiwanese firms to gain an understanding of the innovative ideas and products that are propelling a better tomorrow and to discover potential areas of partnership for your company. You can find Taiwan Excellence PH’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph. If you would like to find out more about the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at the Taiwan Expo 2025, go here.

Apacer, ApexBio, Atunas Sports, Chimei Motor Electronics, CyberTAN, Heartway Medical, HEPTY, InWin Development Inc., LCW, LUFTQI, MacroHI, Mecom, MicroBase, Sheng Yuan Electric, Team Group, Transcend, Vinxper, WebComm Technology, Yee Jee Technology, and Zyxel Networks will all be participating at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at the 2025 Taiwan Expo in the Philippines.