University of Nueva Caceres Breaks Ground on Learning and Innovation Center in Naga City

 

 NAGA CITY, Philippines — The University of Nueva Caceres has formally broken ground on its new Learning and Innovation Center, a multi story academic facility designed to support technology enabled education, research collaboration, and industry aligned learning for students in the Bicol Region.

Naga City, Camarines Sur - March 07, 2026 - NAGA CITY, Philippines — February 12, 2026 — University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) held the groundbreaking and cornerstone-laying ceremony for its new Learning and Innovation Center (LINC), a multi-story academic facility designed to support technology-enabled, collaborative, and industry-aligned education in the Bicol Region. 

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the LINC Building is part of UNC’s long-term academic infrastructure investment strategy to strengthen higher education in the Philippines and enhance learning environments for future generations of students.

Strategic Investment in Academic Infrastructure University President Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya said the project reflects the institution’s response to evolving global education demands.

“The LINC Building represents our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving and technology-driven world,” Dr. Lauraya said. “This facility is not simply an expansion of space, but a strategic investment in the quality, relevance, and accessibility of higher education in our region.”

The new center will feature: 

Technology-enabled classroomsFlexible and collaborative learning spacesResearch and innovation hubsInterdisciplinary engagement areasIndustry-aligned instructional facilities 

University officials said the building is designed to encourage experiential learning, research productivity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration among students and faculty. 

Institutional and Industry Support 

The ceremony was attended by members of the UNC Board of Trustees and executives from iPeople Inc., the university’s education management partner. 

Present during the event were: 

Mr. Alfredo I. Ayala, President of iPeople Inc., Chairman of the UNC Board of Trustees, and UNC’s 3rd President Ms. Gema O. Cheng, Executive Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of iPeopleMs. Yoda Buyco, Chief Marketing Officer of iPeopleMs. Shirley Q. Earnheart, Treasurer of iPeople 

Mr. Ayala emphasized the broader educational impact of the project. 

“Investing in academic infrastructure ensures that institutions like UNC remain responsive to industry needs and global standards,” Ayala said. “The LINC Building strengthens the university’s role in developing highly skilled graduates for regional and national growth.”

Local Government and Community Engagement 

Also in attendance was UNC’s Most Outstanding Alumni Awardee, Hon. Maria Leonor G. Robredo, Mayor of Naga City, along with representatives from local government, business sectors, and media organizations.

Mayor Robredo underscored the importance of institutional development within the city. “Universities play a vital role in regional progress,” she said. “Projects like the LINC Building contribute to economic activity, innovation, and opportunities for young people in Naga City and the wider Bicol Region.”

Cornerstone Ceremony and Blessing 

The event included a ceremonial blessing led by Rev. Fr. Danilo T. Imperial, followed by the laying of the cornerstone, symbolizing the formal commencement of construction. 

University officials noted that the ceremony marked both a structural milestone and a reaffirmation of the institution’s mission-driven foundation.

Advancing Higher Education in the Philippines 

As higher education institutions adapt to digital transformation and interdisciplinary learning models, UNC stated that the LINC Building is intended to serve as a central hub for research development, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community engagement programs. 

The facility is expected to support expanded academic offerings and strengthen UNC’s position as a key contributor to educational advancement in Southern Luzon. 

Construction is scheduled for phased development, with completion targeted for 2027. 

About the University of Nueva Caceres 

Founded in 1948, the University of Nueva Caceres is a private higher education institution based in Naga City, Philippines. UNC offers basic education, undergraduate, and graduate programs across multiple disciplines and is committed to accessible, industry-relevant education, research development, and community engagement in the Bicol Region.

About University of Nueva Caceres

University of Nueva Caceres is a private, non-sectarian educational institution located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines. Founded in 1948 by Jaime Hernandez Sr., it is recognized as the first and oldest university in Southern Luzon and a leading provider of basic and higher education in the Bicol Region. The university offers a comprehensive range of academic programs from pre-school, elementary, junior high school, and senior high school to undergraduate and graduate degrees across multiple disciplines including business, engineering, education, arts and sciences, and law. Today, the institution operates under iPeople Inc., an education management group backed by Ayala Corporation and Yuchengco Group of Companies. The university continues to focus on delivering industry-relevant education, research development, and community engagement while preparing students to become globally competitive professionals. UNC serves thousands of students across its academic programs and remains a key contributor to educational, economic, and social development in Naga City and the wider Bicol Region.

It’s Official: KasKasan Buddies Partners With the Credit Card Association of the Philippines

KasKasan Buddies and the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) have formally partnered to expand financial education and responsible credit card use across the country

Big news, KKBuddies!

We just made it official with the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP).

We signed a partnership with CCAP today, March 6, 2026, in RCBC, 29th Floor Robinsons Equitable Tower, ADB ave. cor. Poveda, Ortigas, with key people from both our teams in the room. It was a full-circle moment for us, and one we're really glad to finally share with you.

Who Is CCAP?

CCAP is the official association of credit card companies and banks in the Philippines. Most of the credit cards you use today are issued by CCAP member banks. When it comes to how credit cards work, what protections you have as a cardholder, and how Filipinos are educated about using credit responsibly, CCAP plays a big role in all of that.

For us, this partnership means the information we share with our community now has an even stronger foundation behind it. More accurate, more complete, and directly connected to the people who know the credit card industry best.

What We're Working On Together

So, what does this actually look like in practice? Here's what we and CCAP are actually building together:

✔ Educational videos featuring official CCAP representatives, so you get clear and accurate information straight from people who know what they're talking about.

✔ Meaningful financial literacy sessions every year, open to Filipinos who want to learn more about using credit cards wisely and getting the most out of them.

✔ Improved learning materials, taking what CCAP already has and making it easier for everyday Filipinos to read, understand, and use.

✔ Campaigns on responsible credit card use, spreading the message that a credit card, when used well, can be one of the most helpful financial tools you have.

✔ Community programs and activities that bring our reach together with CCAP's network, all aimed at helping more Filipinos make better money decisions.

Who Were There

Signing on behalf of CCAP were Chairman Rolando P. Ebreo, President Geraldine C. Liggayu, and Executive Director Alex G. Ilagan. Our CEO and Co-Founder Joel Khristopher Cabugos and Corporate Secretary and Co-Founder Jacques Yves (Jax) Reyes signed on our behalf.

Also present from CCAP were Marketing and PR Committee Chairs Gen Rodriguez and Alvin Marana, Vice Chair Tovi De Leon, Secretary Ruth Ramirez, and Marketing and PR Representative Leslie Javier of RCBC.

From our team: Chief Marketing Officer Joram Joseph Bonus, Senior Business Development Executive Carl Munsayac, Head of Media Jayvee Mambalo, Digital Content Producer Raphael Lawrence Marabut, and Data Analyst Tricia Daguio.

What They Had to Say

Joel Khristopher Cabugos, our CEO and Co-Founder:

“We’re very honored. This is part of our advocacy and purpose. It just amplifies and validates the campaign and objective of KasKasan Buddies. Moving forward, we’ll be more aggressive in doing financial literacy and financial wellness campaigns — knowing that it’s a big responsibility for a community with this size.”

Joel also shared that upcoming programs will prioritize reaching Filipinos outside Metro Manila, covering key cities and provinces, with a special focus on the youth.

“That’s something we see will make a lot of impact,” he said.

Jax Reyes, our Corporate Secretary and Co-Founder:

"This is really about pushing financial literacy — especially the proper use of credit cards and breaking the stigma that credit cards are bad. Because if used correctly, they're genuinely beneficial to a lot of Filipinos."

Jax also highlighted the importance of amplifying CCAP's existing programs, which he believes more Filipinos need to know about.

"They already have programs that are beneficial to credit card holders in the country," he said. "We want to help more people find out about them."

Rolando P. Ebreo, Chairman, CCAP:

"Today's signing reflects a shared commitment to expand financial education through relevant, accessible, and engaging platforms. Through this partnership, CCAP and KasKasan Buddies will work together on content, learning sessions, and initiatives that empower more Filipinos to use credit responsibly and confidently."

Chairman Ebreo also noted that the collaboration directly supports BSP's push to advance financial inclusion, making sure that knowledge, opportunity, and access reach more communities across the country, not just those in major cities.

Geraldine C. Liggayu, President, CCAP:

“We’re very thankful that this partnership has finally come true. This has been endorsed not just by CCAP but also by BSP and schemes. We’re really looking forward to it! We’re hoping we can educate and reach more Filipinos — not just on responsible credit card use, but on personal finance as a whole. Na hindi sila matakot gumamit ng credit card at maintindihan nila kung paano i-manage ang kanilang personal finances na hindi sila malulubog sa utang. Yun man lang — in that manner, makatulong kami to uplift the lives of the Filipinos.”

What This Means for Our Community

We started as a Facebook group where Filipinos could share tips on getting more out of their credit cards. Today, we're 1.2 million members strong.

Partnering with CCAP connects our community directly with the people who set the standards for credit cards and look after cardholders in the Philippines. And with BSP part of this conversation too, what we're working on together feeds into something bigger: a national push to help every Filipino feel more confident about their money.

We're genuinely excited about what comes next. More programs, more resources, and more ways for our community to learn together. We'll keep you posted every step of the way.

Stay Updated

The best financial tips, latest promos, news promos, resources, and everything coming out of this partnership goes straight to our community first. Follow us and CCAP on social media so you never miss an update.

🌐 KasKasan Buddies on Facebook

📱 Download the KasKasan Buddies App: App Store & GooglePlay

We'll update this article as more details become available. For the latest, follow us and CCAP on our official social media pages.

About KasKasan Buddies Ventures Corporation

KasKasan Buddies Ventures Corp (KKB) is the Philippines' #1 finance community and digital platform. We serve as the premier digital avenue for secure credit card applications, exclusive promos, and comprehensive financial guides.

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

 

Tourism Promotions Board Philippines Partners with TripZilla to Lead Strategic Digital Campaign Across Asia and Key Global Markets

 

The Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) has partnered with TripZilla to lead a multi-market digital campaign across Asia and key global regions, leveraging TripZilla’s 20 million-strong monthly reach to strengthen the Philippines’ visibility across search, AI and social platforms.

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines has partnered with TripZilla, one of Southeast Asia’s leading digital travel media platforms reaching over 20 million travellers monthly, as its strategic digital media collaborator to spearhead a campaign designed to elevate the Philippines’ presence across Asia and key global travel markets. The initiative reinforces the Philippines’ ambition to strengthen its appeal within high-growth outbound regions.

The partnership reflects a strategic commitment to digitally led, market-responsive destination marketing at a time when travel decisions are shaped simultaneously by search engines, AI tools and social platforms.

Built for the Way Travel Is Discovered Today

Travel discovery no longer follows a single path. It unfolds across AI assistants, search results, short-form video feeds and region-specific social platforms – often within the same decision journey.

TripZilla’s regional ecosystem operates within this evolving discovery landscape.

Rather than relying on a single content format, the campaign deploys a coordinated mix of search-led editorial features, mobile-first short-form video and platform-native social storytelling to ensure the Philippines remains visible across every major discovery touchpoint.

Each format serves a clear role: capturing early-stage inspiration, supporting active trip research and sustaining destination consideration throughout the traveller journey.

Commenting on the partnership, Winnie Tan, CEO of TripZilla, said: “Sustainable tourism growth today depends on how effectively destinations align their narratives with real traveller intent across markets and platforms. Visibility alone is no longer enough - relevance and precision drive competitive advantage. Through our partnership with TPB Philippines, we are delivering coordinated, multi-market activation powered by audience intelligence to strengthen the Philippines’ standing across key regional and global audiences.”

Market-Led Execution Across Regions

Beyond distribution strategy, the campaign is shaped by market intelligence.

TripZilla’s regional editorial teams adapt narratives to reflect local travel priorities, search behaviour and content consumption patterns unique to each audience. Rather than replicating a single storyline globally, the Philippines is positioned through perspectives that resonate authentically within each region.

This approach ensures the destination is not only visible – but contextually relevant within each target market.

A refreshed Destination Spotlight hub on TripZilla’s platform anchors the initiative, providing travellers with a streamlined gateway to curated stories, itineraries and partner offerings within one cohesive planning experience.

Reinforcing the Philippines’ Global Appeal

Through authoritative storytelling and coordinated regional distribution, the campaign highlights the Philippines as:

- A multi-island destination offering both iconic landmarks and lesser-known experiences

- A culturally rich archipelago defined by authenticity and hospitality

- A compelling choice for diverse traveller segments worldwide

The initiative underscores TPB Philippines’ continued investment in search optimisation, social-first storytelling and cross-platform reach as essential drivers of global tourism competitiveness.

TripZilla: A Regional Leader in Digital Travel Influence

TripZilla reaches over 20 million travellers monthly across some of Asia’s fastest-growing outbound markets, including Southeast Asia and India. For more than a decade and a half, the platform has worked with national tourism organisations, airlines and global travel brands to shape how destinations are discovered, evaluated and chosen.

With multilingual editorial capabilities and a content ecosystem built for the “Search Everywhere” era, TripZilla connects destinations with high-intent travellers through platform-native storytelling and strategic regional distribution.

The collaboration with TPB Philippines reinforces TripZilla’s role as a trusted strategic partner for destinations seeking sustained visibility and competitive digital positioning across Asia and beyond.

About TripZilla

For over 16 years, TripZilla has been one of Southeast Asia’s leading online travel media platforms, partnering with prominent National Tourism Organisations and some of the region’s largest travel brands. Reaching over 20 million travellers monthly, TripZilla delivers integrated, cross-platform storytelling that inspires travel and influences travel decisions at scale.

For more information, visit www.tripzilla.com.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

OnGo Smart Advertising Joins 15th Open Office Circuit Play Hosted by Dentsu Philippines

 

 OnGo Smart Advertising participated in Dentsu Philippines’ 15th Open Office Circuit Play, showcasing its in-car tablet and OOH media solutions.

OnGo Smart Advertising proudly participated in the 15th Open Office Circuit Play hosted by Dentsu Philippines, an industry event that brought together media partners, agencies, and marketing leaders to foster stronger collaboration across the advertising landscape.

As an invited out-of-home (OOH) media supplier, OnGo showcased its growing portfolio of innovative advertising solutions, with particular emphasis on its in-car tablet advertising platform. Exhibiting alongside fellow media partners Outcomm and Summit Media, the company engaged in meaningful conversations with agency teams and brand representatives, highlighting fresh opportunities in data-driven and location-based media strategies.

Representing the organization, CEO Jeff Alias, together with the Accounts Team, reaffirmed OnGo’s commitment to building long-term partnerships and delivering impactful, results driven media solutions that respond to the evolving needs of advertisers.

OnGo Smart Advertising extends its congratulations to Dentsu Philippines for mounting a successful and well-executed event and looks forward to continued collaboration that will help shape the future of OOH advertising.

About OnGo Smart Advertising Inc.

OnGo Smart Advertising harnesses the impact of both traditional and digital outdoor media to engage audiences—delivering authentic impressions while maintaining cost efficiency for clients. Officially launched in March 2019, OnGo now partners with over 1,000 rideshare vehicles across Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Maxime Brings HOPE FUR-REAL to Local Rescues in Outreach Program

 

Maxime’s “Hope Fur-Real” outreach program brought together animal lovers and welfare advocates for a donation drive, a vaccination drive, story-sharing sessions, and a community lunch at Second Chance Aspin Shelter Philippines Incorporated (SECASPI)

Maxime Brings HOPE FUR-REAL to Local Rescues in Outreach Program

Putting compassion into action, Maxime Pet Food recently mobilized its “Hope Fur-Real” shelter outreach, providing quality nutrition and care for over 100 rescued dogs and cats of the Second Chance Aspin Shelter Philippines Incorporated (SECASPI) in  Calamba, Laguna.

Organized in partnership with the University of the Philippines’ Venerable Lady Veterinarians (UPVLV), Maxime’s “Hope Fur-Real” outreach program brought together animal lovers and welfare advocates for a half-day activity that included the distribution of pet food supplies, a vaccination drive, story-sharing sessions, and a community lunch with SECASPI on January 24, 2026.

"Events like this outreach program reflect Maxime’s advocacy for responsible pet ownership and compassion for animals," said Leonido Torres, Jr., Channel Development Specialist for Maxime, adding, "We're creating spaces where we can show genuine care for animals and connect with those who share our passion, especially for rescues. It ties up with Maxime's commitment to providing fur-babies with real meat and fish, with no artificial colors or preservatives, which is part of our broader thrust toward real, honest nutrition."

Championing quality nutrition, Maxime donated 15 sacks of dog and puppy food and 21 sacks of cat and kitten food. Maxime also provided brand new bowls and toys. Beyond material support, Maxime’s veterinary partners administered complete anti-rabies, 5-in-1, and 4-in-1 vaccines to 113 rescued stray dogs and cats.

"More than the donations, toys, vaccines, and services that our partners provided, this program is really about giving hope and showing kindness to animals," said Bea Hermano, Product Marketing for Maxime, adding, "You look at these cats and dogs here at SECASPI, and we know that they, too, deserve to be loved. That's what Maxime stands for, and that's the message that everyone here—our volunteers and partners—hope to spread."

SECASPI echoes this sentiment and underscores how compassion makes a real difference in their community, especially in the lives of their rescues. “Seeing the community come together for our rescues is truly moving. Every vaccinated dog and every full bowl of food represents a second chance at life,” said Cherry Licup, Overall Operations for SECASPI, adding, “We can't thank the team enough for choosing SECASPI; their generosity gives our animals more than just supplies—it gives them a healthier, happier future while they wait for their forever homes.”

By joining forces with compassionate partners like SECASPI, Maxime empowers pet parents and welfare advocates to #LiveTheBestLifeTogether, ensuring that every wag and purr is met with a lifetime of care. This is our promise of #MaximeHopeFurReal.

About Maxime

Maxime is the premium pet food brand of Aboitiz Foods. Leveraging decades of expertise in animal nutrition, Maxime offers a range of scientifically formulated dog and cat food made with real meat, essential vitamins, and no artificial colors. Maxime is dedicated to providing pet parents with high-quality, honest nutrition that supports the long-term health and vigor of their furry companions, empowering owners and pets to Live the Best Life Together.

For more information, visit @MaximePhilippines on Facebook / @Maxime.ph on Instagram.

CAPTIONS: 

1. Maxime is more than a pet food brand — it bridges the bonds between pets and fur parents, so they can #LiveTheBestLifeTogether.

2. Beyond feeding our pets, Maxime also endeavors to deliver quality nutrition to cats and dogs who need it the most.Through advocating for animal compassion and mobilizing community outreach programs, it gives Hope Fur-Real!

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Aileen Santiago Cast as Lead in “The Moments After,” Newest NDM Original Directed by Carlo Alvarez

 

Manila, Philippines — Rising Pinay actress and fashion model Aileen Santiago has officially been cast as the lead in The Moments After, the newest episode feature under the #NDMOriginal banner. The emotionally charged film is part of the much-anticipated Random Pieces series, written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Carlo Alvarez, and will stream exclusively on global premium platform NDMplus.

Known for her striking screen presence and growing influence in the entertainment industry, Santiago takes on one of her most demanding roles to date. In The Moments After, she portrays a woman at the heart of a crumbling marriage — a story that explores the fragile spaces between love, silence, and pride.

The episode follows a troubled architect fighting to salvage his deteriorating relationship as emotional distance and unspoken wounds threaten to permanently divide him from the woman he still loves. As communication breaks down and tensions rise, the narrative dives deep into the painful realities couples face when affection is overshadowed by ego and unresolved hurt.

At the center of this storm is Santiago’s character — a portrayal that promises raw vulnerability, layered emotion, and gripping intensity. Industry insiders describe the performance as a defining moment in her career, showcasing a depth and maturity audiences have yet to see.

Director Carlo Alvarez, celebrated for his nuanced storytelling and emotionally resonant films, brings his signature cinematic style to the project. With The Moments After, Alvarez continues his exploration of human connection — not just the beauty of love, but the consequences that unfold when it begins to fracture.

“This episode is about what happens after the damage is done,” a production insider shared. “It’s about the silence between ‘I love you’ and ‘goodbye.’ It’s honest, intimate, and uncomfortably real.”

Random Pieces has gained attention for its character-driven narratives and poignant themes, and this latest installment is expected to elevate the anthology series further. By blending compelling performances with emotionally grounded storytelling, the production aims to resonate with viewers navigating their own experiences of love, loss, and reconciliation.

Streaming exclusively on NDMplus, The Moments After is positioned to captivate a global audience seeking meaningful, thought-provoking content. The platform continues to expand its roster of original programming, spotlighting emerging talents and visionary filmmakers from the Philippines and beyond.

With anticipation building around the cast reveal, fans and industry observers alike are eager to witness Santiago’s transformation in this powerful new role. The project marks a significant milestone in her career, reinforcing her status as one of the most promising actresses of her generation.

The Moments After will premiere soon, exclusively on NDMplus.

For updates and streaming access, visit www.ndmplus.com

About Kwento Co

Kwento Co is a diverse and dynamic media and information literacy website. We are a team of accomplished content creators, artists, influencers, and young entrepreneurs passionate about helping micro and macro-sized businesses market their services through effective digital marketing strategies tailored to their brands.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Connektive Launches an Integrated Creative Platform for Philippine Brands

Connektive empowers Philippine brands through integrated creative production, digital marketing, and event solutions — delivering consistent branding, strategic execution, and measurable growth.

Connektive was established to address a persistent challenge faced by growing brands: fragmented creative efforts, inconsistent messaging, and missed opportunities to build meaningful audience relationships. Built on a strategy-first foundation, the company unifies creative execution and marketing direction to ensure campaigns are cohesive, intentional, and performance-driven.

Rather than operating across disconnected channels, Connektive integrates multimedia production, digital strategy, advertising, publication media, and event execution into one streamlined system. This structure enables businesses to move efficiently from concept development to full-scale implementation with clarity, consistency, and measurable impact.

“Brands often know what they want to communicate — but execution ultimately determines results,” the Connektive team shared. “Our objective is to bridge the gap between vision and impact by aligning creative direction with strategic marketing and data-informed decision-making.”

Connektive’s framework operates through three strategic pillars: Connect, Create, and Captivate.

Through Connect, brands are positioned effectively to reach the right audience with clarity and purpose. Through Create, high-quality visual and digital assets are developed to establish credibility and strengthen identity. Through Captivate, campaigns are optimized to sustain engagement and deliver long-term brand growth.

By consolidating these pillars into a cohesive creative ecosystem, Connektive provides Philippine businesses with an integrated approach that strengthens visibility, enhances brand trust, and drives measurable performance.

With its expanding capabilities — including multimedia production, digital marketing, broadcast partnerships, out-of-home advertising, and its ISSN-registered publication platform — Connektive continues to elevate brands across the Philippines, reinforcing its position as a results-driven creative and marketing platform in an increasingly competitive landscape.

About Southeast Asia Business Excellence Awards

Connektive, recognized at the Southeast Asia Business Excellence Awards, is a full-service creative and digital marketing platform empowering Philippine brands to scale with clarity, consistency, and impact. Through the integration of creative production, strategic marketing, and digital innovation, Connektive delivers measurable growth and seamless brand experiences.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES.