Why Winter Is the Best Time to Fall in Love With Seoul

 

 Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc. (IRC) has opened bookings for its Winter 2026–2027 “Best of Seoul” tour package via Korean Air, featuring Elysian Ski Resort, the Gwanghwamun Lantern Festival, and Michelin-recognized dining. The package includes a guaranteed Korean E-Group visa, a free unlimited data eSIM per family, and a Korean Air full-service carrier upgrade at no extra cost. Pricing starts at USD 599 (Plus) and USD 688 (Premium), with departures running from December 2026 through February 2027.

Snow, Lantern Lights, and Samgyetang:Why Winter Is the Best Time to Fall in Love With Seoul

Picture this: you step off the gondola at Elysian Ski Resort, cheeks pink from the cold, snow crunching under your boots for maybe the first time in your life. By nightfall, you're wrapped in a blanket along the Cheonggyecheon stream, watching thousands of lanterns glow against the dark and in between, there's a steaming bowl of Samgyetang waiting to warm you back up.

That's the kind of trip Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc. (IRC) has built into its Winter 2026–2027 ‘Best of Seoul’ package, now open for booking through the Join Enjoy Korea platform, flying via Korean Air in partnership with the Seoul Tourism Organization and Go! Seoul. And this time, the trip comes with more than just a packed itinerary a guaranteed E-Group visa, a free unlimited eSIM for the whole family, and Michelin-recognized dining are all part of the package.

A Season That Only Comes Once a Year

Korea in winter isn't just cold it's a completely different country than the one you'd see in spring or summer. Snow blankets the mountains, the city lights feel warmer against the dark, and entire streets turn into open-air lantern displays. This is the trip for travelers who've always wanted to touch real snow, try skiing for the first time, or simply see Seoul wrapped in its most magical season.

What Four Days in Winter Seoul Actually Looks Like

The journey starts the moment you land: a short ferry ride to Nami Island, where snow-dusted tree-lined paths look straight out of a K-drama, followed by an afternoon at Elysian Ski Resort for travelers to ski, snowboard, or just play in the snow (equipment rental available; Soyangang Skywalk steps in as a scenic alternative if the slopes are closed).

Day two is where Seoul's winter magic really shows off from the Starfield Byeolmadang Library's soaring bookshelves to the 63 Sky Picnic rooftop observatory, before ending the night at the glowing Gwanghwamun Lantern Festival. For those who want to go further, an optional Han River cruise with DIY ramyeon at River Park adds a cozy, only-in-winter twist to the evening.

The final day is for soaking it all in one last time — Hongdae's street energy, the view from N Seoul Tower, and a hands-on DIY kimbap session before heading home.

Choose How You Want to Spend Day Three

Travelers who want a fuller itinerary can pick Best of Seoul Premium, which includes a guided Day 3 to Everland and Starfield Library. Those who'd rather sleep in, shop, or wander on their own can go with Best of Seoul Plus, which leaves Day 3 open with the same Everland, available as an optional add-on for groups of 10 or more (USD 100 per person).

What Makes This Package More Than Just a Tour?

Beyond the itinerary, this package bundles in a handful of perks that travelers would normally have to arrange or pay for on their own:

• Guaranteed Korean E-Group Visa approval secured as part of the group application, taking the uncertainty out of one of the most stressful parts of planning a Korea trip.

•  Free Unlimited Data eSIM per Family stay connected for maps, translation apps, and sharing the trip in real time, at no extra cost.

•  Michelin-Recognized Dining meals featuring a restaurant honored for 7 consecutive years by the Michelin Guide.

•  Korean Air flying on Korean Air's full-service carrier, at the same regular package price.

•  Superior Baggage Allowance 23kg checked plus 10kg hand-carry, more than enough room for winter layers and pasalubong.

•  Gourmet In-Flight Meals included on both legs of the Korean Air flight.

What Will It Cost You?

Rates depend on when you fly book earlier in the season for the lowest price:

Departure Dates:

Regular Travel: Dec 2–6, Dec 9–13, Jan 13–17, Jan 20–24, Feb 17–21, Feb 24–28

Plus USD 599 / Premium USD 688

Peak Season: Dec 16–20, Jan 6–10, Jan 27–31

Plus USD 699 / Premium USD 788

Super Peak Season: Dec 23–27, Dec 30–Jan 3, Feb 3–7, Feb 10–14

Plus USD 799 / Premium USD 888

Every package already covers round-trip Korean Air flights, hotel stays, daily meals, transfers, guided tours, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees in the itinerary, travel insurance (up to 75 years old), and daily bottled water so the only things to budget separately are the guide's tip (USD 5/pax/day), a single supplement if traveling solo (PHP 10,000), the visa fee (PHP 1,000), Philippine travel tax (PHP 1,620), and a fuel surcharge (USD 50, subject to change).

“Winter is one of our most requested seasons because it gives travelers something they simply can't get any other time of year real snow, skiing, and Seoul at its most beautiful,” said Hyok Choi, CEO of Island Resort Club. “We built this package so our guests could experience all of that without having to plan a single detail themselves.”

About Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc.
Established in the Philippines in 2002, Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc. (IRC) is a premier MICE and destination management specialist with a proven track record in orchestrating high-level, bilateral governmental and corporate events adhering to rigorous state-level protocol standards. Notably, IRC spearheaded local operational management for the Korea-Philippines Business Forum, held on the occasion of the South Korean President’s state visit to the Philippines to commemorate the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

IRC is a fully accredited travel agency licensed in the Philippines, South Korea, and Cuba, and is officially designated by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea to process Korean electronic visas (e-visas). Through its flagship platform, "Join Enjoy," IRC continues to lead bilateral cultural exchange, tourism, and business connectivity between the Philippines and South Korea.

Father of K-Drama’ Chang-sik Park Headlines 2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum in Manila

The 2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at the Ayala Museum in Makati City, co-hosted by Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST), the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE) — led by President Chang-sik Park, widely credited as the “Father of K-Drama” — and the ASEAN Foundation. The free event, open to the public with pre-registration, features masterclasses on transforming creative ideas into high-value intellectual property, along with Korean culinary experiences, curated art exhibitions, and K-pop giveaways.

‘Father of K-Drama’ Chang-sik Park and Global IP Visionaries Gather in Manila: Why You Cannot Afford to Miss the 2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — On Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Ayala Museum in Makati City will host an unprecedented gathering of the masterminds behind Asia’s most iconic cultural phenomena. Co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea (MCST), the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), and the ASEAN Foundation, the “2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum” offers an exclusive masterclass in transforming creative ideas into high-value intellectual property (IP).From high-level masterclasses with industry legends to authentic Korean culinary experiences, curated art exhibitions, and high-value tech and K-pop giveaways, here is why this is the premier cultural event of 2026 in Manila.

World-Class Keynotes & Sessions: Learn from True Creative PioneersAttendees will gain direct insights from an elite roster of regional leaders across four strategic sessions:• Opening Remarks by the ‘Father of K-Drama’: Mr. Chang-sik Park, President of KOFICE, who produced over 50 legendary Korean TV dramas including 'Eyes of Dawn' (1991), 'Sandglass' (1995, reaching a historic 64.5% viewership), and 'Yi San' (2007) will open the forum, sharing his blueprint on storytelling longevity and state-level cultural policy.• Keynote Address by Nexon’s Gaming Pioneer: Mr. Chang-seop Kim, General Director of NEXON’s MapleStory, will reveal the strategies behind MapleStory’s 20-year dominance in Southeast Asia (MapleStory SEA), detailing how a gaming IP successfully expanded into symphonic orchestra concerts, theme park attractions, and global consumer brands.

Session 1 (Policy): Building Governance for Cultural IP (11:00–12:10)  Moderated by Jonathan Tan Ghee Tiong (Head of Culture and Information Division, ASEAN Secretariat), featuring former IPOPHL Director General Josephine Santiago, Indonesian IP reform architect Ari Juliano Gema, and Dr. Ji Hoon Yang (Korea Culture & Tourism Institute)

Session 2 (Industry): Monetizing Imagination & Global Scaling (13:00–14:10)  Moderated by acclaimed Thai film director Panu Aree, featuring Jean Yeo (Creator of Singapore’s Emmy-recognized productions and local producer for tvN’s 'Little Women'), Le Quoc Vinh (CEO of Vietnam's Le Group), and Peter Yap (Executive Director of Mary K. Yap Foundation)

Session 3 (Cooperation): Connecting ASEAN-Korea Cultural IP (14:35–15:45)  Moderated by Tara Gujadhur (Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, Laos), featuring Prof. Young Kyung Ko (author of 'ASEAN Super App Wars'), Zainol Haqim (CEO of Malaysia’s MyCreative Ventures), and Dirce Freitas Mendes (Timor-Leste National Tais Safeguarding Plan)

Session 4 (Youth): Co-Creating the IP Horizon (15:45–16:45)  Featuring Elijah Canlas (Gawad Urian Best Actor and star of the Philippine adaptation of 'Keys to the Heart'), alongside multinational youth creators presenting cross-border creative initiatives.

Beyond the Forum: Contemporary Art & Interactive CultureForum attendees receive exclusive access to the 7-day contemporary art exhibition “Gathering Point” (Nov 7–13), featuring prominent regional artists including the Philippines' Mark Justiniani, Leslie de Chavez, and Christina Quisumbing Ramilo, alongside Korea's Kim Joon and master artists from Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Visitors can also enjoy an on-site artist talk and commemorative photo booths featuring custom ASEAN-Korea frames.

Exclusive Attendee Privileges: Authentic Korean Dining, Grand Raffle & Free eSIMEvery registered attendee will enjoy curated hospitality and incentives:• Authentic Korean Luncheon: A complimentary premium Korean lunch box and specialized coffee break with traditional Korean rice cakes and refreshments.• Free High-Speed 50GB Korea Data eSIM: Every applicant who registers via joinenjoy.com.ph will instantly receive a complimentary 50GB High-Speed Korea Data eSIM voucher (usable upon booking the 'Best of Seoul' package via Korean Air).• Grand Finale Raffle Draw (4:45 PM): Attendees who participate through the closing ceremony become eligible for prizes including Samsung Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Fit3 smart bands, Dancheong mechanical Bluetooth keyboards, official rare BTS LP vinyls and tour albums, SEVENTEEN photobooks, and premium Sulwhasoo K-Beauty cosmetic sets.

Due to the intimate, high-level nature of the Ayala Museum Function Room, registrations are processed on a strictly curated, first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is essential.

About Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc.

Established in the Philippines in 2002, Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc. (IRC) is a premier MICE and destination management specialist with a proven track record in orchestrating high-level, bilateral governmental and corporate events adhering to rigorous state-level protocol standards. Notably, IRC spearheaded local operational management for the Korea-Philippines Business Forum, held on the occasion of the South Korean President’s state visit to the Philippines to commemorate the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
IRC is a fully accredited travel agency licensed in the Philippines, South Korea, and Cuba, and is officially designated by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea to process Korean electronic visas (e-visas). Through its flagship platform, "Join Enjoy," IRC continues to lead bilateral cultural exchange, tourism, and business connectivity between the Philippines and South Korea.

ESET launches new B2B features for the AI era

 

ESET is refining its B2B portfolio by adding a new AI Security module to the ESET PROTECT Platform.

ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity, is refining its B2B portfolio by adding a new AI Security module to the ESET PROTECT Platform. By helping organizations protect against threats across the AI ecosystem, ESET enables businesses to adopt AI with greater confidence through the following capabilities:

· AI Agent Security: A dedicated security layer that protects organizations using autonomous AI agents from malicious AI components, expanding defenses into the AI agent ecosystem to maintain AI productivity without compromising security.

· AI Behavioral Monitoring: A continuous monitoring capability that tracks the behavior of autonomous AI agents. This will detect and flag suspicious actions to help reduce risk, strengthen oversight of AI agent operations, and prevent suspicious AI behavior from turning into a security incident.

The cybersecurity landscape is being reshaped by AI. As employees adopt AI tools, developers embrace coding assistants, and organizations integrate AI agents and AI-driven workflows, a new attack surface is emerging. ESET is already seeing this shift firsthand. Its researchers have previously uncovered AI-enabled threats such as PromptLockand PromptSpy, while detecting thousands of malicious agentic AI skills. As AI accelerates innovation, it is also accelerating risk, requiring a new approach to cyber resilience. 

“AI is transforming the way businesses operate, innovate and grow, but it is also reshaping the cybersecurity landscape at an extraordinary pace. Across APAC, organizations are increasingly looking for security that can keep pace with this change while giving them the confidence to embrace new technologies. For us, cybersecurity is not only about responding to threats; it is about enabling progress securely. ESET’s updated B2B portfolio, supported by an additional €40 million investment in AI in 2026, reflects our commitment to helping organizations strengthen their resilience, navigate emerging AI-driven risks and ensure that security remains a foundation for innovation,” said Parvinder Walia, President of the APAC Region, ESET.

ESET is also strengthening its core AI detection technologies, which have been decades in development, by investing in security-first AI foundations designed specifically for cybersecurity. These includeESET LiveCortex, a cross-perimeter correlation and response engine included in the ESET PROTECT Platform.

Similarly, ESET AI Advisor is being renamed to ESET LiveAI to better reflect its place in the company’s core product portfolio and its new capability to provide live incident remediation context.

 

Discover more about ESET PROTECT here.

Read the full ESET Enterprise Cybersecurity Report 2026 here.

About B1G2 Technologies International Inc.

B1G2 Technologies is the exclusive distributor of ESET products in the Philippines. With a focus on delivering world-class cybersecurity solutions, B1G2 Technologies offers cybersecurity solutions and services, local support, and partner enablement to help businesses secure their digital operations. Its portfolio includes SOC as a Service, Threat Sweeping, Governance and Risk Management, and Cybersecurity Posture Improvement programs—empowering businesses to secure their digital transformation journey. For more information, visit our website (https://b1g2.io) or follow our LinkedIn and Facebook page.

i4C.PH: Raising the New Generation of Holistic Resilient Thinkers

 i4C.PH 2026 runs November 3 to 5 at the SMX Convention Center, Clark, Pampanga. It brings together students, professionals, and leaders across sectors to build integrated thinking across physical security, disaster risk, and cybersecurity. The Youth Resilience Lab, open to up to 200 student delegates, runs alongside senior-level simulations and workshops, placing every generation in the same learning environment. Registration and details are found at the end of this article.

The Philippines sits at a convergence of pressures that no single profession fully owns. Climate events grow heavier each decade. Digital threats reach further into daily life. Physical infrastructure, public health, and community safety are increasingly tied together in ways that weren’t true a generation ago. When one system strains, others tend to follow. Students, working professionals, community leaders, and families across the country will all spend years inside that reality, and how they navigate it will depend in part on whether the thinking they carry is broad enough to match it.

Holistic resilience is the capacity to read a situation across its physical, digital, and institutional dimensions and respond in a way that accounts for all of them, and it can take root at any stage of life, in any kind of work. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which the Philippines has committed to, calls explicitly for investing in youth knowledge and skills as a foundation for long-term risk reduction. UNESCO’s work on Education for Sustainable Development documents that risk literacy, when woven into learning early, helps people apply connected thinking to real problems throughout their lives. Both point to a measurable difference in how communities recover when more of their members think this way.

The gap between that goal and current practice remains real. Disaster preparedness, cybersecurity, and physical safety tend to be treated as separate subjects when they appear in formal education at all. The crises the Philippines faces rarely stay within a single category. A typhoon disrupts power. A power disruption creates vulnerabilities in communications. Communication failures slow emergency response. The chain moves quickly, and it crosses every professional boundary.

Addressing that gap requires more than awareness. It requires spaces where people across sectors and generations practice integrated thinking together, where a student, a crisis manager, and a community leader work through the same problem and leave with something they can use.

Education that treats these connections as the starting point is what gradually shifts that pattern. Students who develop that habit carry it into every role they take on, and professionals who train within the same framework bring it into organizations and institutions. The effect spreads outward, and it takes root most durably when learning happens across generations in the same room.

i4C.PH 2026, taking place November 3 to 5 at the SMX Convention Center, Clark, Pampanga, is built around that kind of cross-domain learning. The Youth Resilience Lab gathers up to 200 student delegates for two days of focused work on AI safety, digital trust, misinformation, and Design Thinking, within a framework that connects physical safety, disaster preparedness, cybersecurity, technology, and communication as a single system. Students apply the Four I’s and Four C’s as a practical checklist for evaluating their own solutions. The broader platform convenes senior professionals from energy, security, tourism, and crisis management, working through live simulation environments to develop shared operational frameworks. Students and experienced practitioners are in the same space, working on problems that concern them both.

Building resilient thinking across the Philippines takes years and happens across many kinds of spaces. i4C.PH 2026 is one of them. Click here to register now or scan the QR Code above. Or visit the i4C.PH Website to learn more. We hope to see you there.

The Hidden Cost of SaaS Link Building: Why Direct Specialists Can Cut Costs

SaaS companies with an established SEO strategy can reduce link-building costs by working directly with an independent specialist.

- Illustrative savings: At 12 links per month, $180 per placement plus an $800 retainer totals $2,960 monthly, compared with a $6,000 benchmark—a modeled 50.7% reduction.

- Why costs may fall: Established publisher relationships can reduce prospecting, negotiation, intermediary fees, and management overhead.

- Main trade-off: Specialists provide focused execution; agencies and in-house teams offer broader capabilities.
- Quality matters: Publisher relevance, readership, editorial standards, and transparent sponsorship practices should outweigh price or link volume.

The Hidden Cost of SaaS Link Building: Why Direct Specialists Can Cut Costs

By Leo Corado | Independent Link-Building Specialist

A practical look at placement costs, publisher partnerships, and choosing the right off-page SEO delivery model.

For SaaS businesses, link building can be one of the most expensive parts of an SEO program. Yet the final price of a backlink often reflects more than the publisher's fee. Prospecting, outreach, account management, marketplace charges, and intermediary margins can all influence what a company ultimately pays.

A leaner option is to work directly with an independent link-building specialist who already maintains publisher relationships and provides the tools and execution needed for a focused off-page campaign.

An anonymized SaaS engagement illustrates the potential difference: average publisher placement costs were approximately $180 per link, compared with a higher-cost sourcing benchmark of $500 per link. Including an $800 monthly specialist retainer and an average of 12 links per month, the direct-specialist model yields an illustrative all-in cost of $2,960 per month, versus $6,000 at the benchmark rate.

That difference represents a 50.7% modeled cost reduction, assuming similar placements and service scope. It is not an independently audited annual savings figure.

What the Costs Include

The price paid for a link is not necessarily its complete acquisition cost. Some providers bundle research, relationship management, content, and reporting; others charge separately. Comparing headline link prices without checking the inclusions can mislead buyers.

Monthly cost comparison: direct specialist vs. benchmark

12 publisher placements: Direct specialist: $2,160; benchmark: $6,000.

Specialist retainer: Direct specialist: $800; assumed included in the benchmark.

Separately billed outreach tools: Direct specialist: $0; assumed included in the benchmark.

Routine partner-post production: Direct specialist: $0*; assumed included in the benchmark.

Total monthly cost: Direct specialist: $2,960; benchmark: $6,000.

* Most placements were partner posts that did not require separately commissioned content; occasional guest posts can carry additional costs. The $500 comparison is assumed to cover equivalent deliverables.

At these rates, the direct-specialist model costs about $246.67 per backlink, including the retainer. The $3,040 monthly difference would amount to $36,480 if the same volume and rates held for twelve months. These annualized numbers are an illustration, not a record of twelve months of verified spending.

The Role of Established Publisher Relationships

Publisher relationships can reduce repeated prospecting and lengthy back-and-forth negotiations. A specialist who regularly works with relevant publishers may secure more responsive communication, favorable repeat-placement terms, and clearer editorial requirements.

This is not simply about maintaining a long domain list. The real value is knowing which sites reach the right audiences, which placements fit the topic, and how content can contribute something useful to readers.

More Control, Not Just Lower Pricing

In this engagement, the specialist reported an average output of 12 backlinks per month and a peak of 21 in one month. Direct execution also enabled closer coordination on publisher suitability, placement type, topical relevance, and timing.

However, there is no evidence presented here that rankings or organic traffic improved as a direct result. Link quality must still be evaluated independently, and a lower cost does not by itself establish a better outcome.

Choosing the Right Delivery Model

Full-service agencies can be the right choice when technical SEO, on-page work, content planning, and off-page execution need to be coordinated. Their broader expertise and management resources may justify higher fees.

Backlink marketplaces simplify discovery and purchasing, but inventory overlap, platform fees, and inconsistent editorial standards can reduce their value for some campaigns.

Full-time in-house hires provide close organizational alignment but involve recruitment, payroll, training, and tool costs.

Independent specialists offer focused execution, existing processes, and direct accountability. Their narrower scope is also a limitation: a link-building specialist is not a substitute for a complete SEO team.

Spend on Relevance, Not Just Volume

Publisher relevance, actual readership, editorial standards, and the surrounding content should carry more weight than an attractive price tag. Businesses must also distinguish genuine editorial outreach from purchased links intended to manipulate rankings. Sponsored placements should be transparently and appropriately qualified under search-engine guidelines.

For SaaS teams that already have a clear SEO plan, a direct specialist can be a practical way to reduce execution overhead and free up budget for other marketing work. In the anonymized engagement, the company reported redirecting savings into other SEO activities.

Ultimately, the right question is not which provider advertises the cheapest backlink. It is which operating model delivers suitable, transparent, editorially relevant opportunities at a sustainable total cost.

Methodology and disclosure

Figures are based on reported historical placement averages of $180 through direct publisher sourcing and a $500 higher-cost benchmark; an $800 monthly retainer; and standardized output of 12 links per month. Benchmark inclusion assumptions require confirmation. Rates vary by niche, competition, publisher, format, and content requirements. The SaaS company and other providers are intentionally not identified.

About Leo Corado

Leo Corado

Independent Link-Building Specialist

Leo Corado helps SaaS businesses and digital marketing teams execute focused off-page SEO campaigns through publisher partnerships, strategic outreach, and cost-conscious link acquisition.

www.leocorado.com

Zeinab Harake Parks, Casino Plus Light Up Bacolod for MassKara 2026 Electric Float Parade

 

BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, 16 OCTOBER 2026 — Social media personality and Casino Plus brand advocate Zeinab Harake Parks brought star power to Bacolod’s MassKara Festival 2026 on Friday, joining the highly anticipated Electric Float Parade in the city where hundreds of cheering festivalgoers gathered for an evening of spectacle, entertainment, and celebration.

Casino Plus, one of the country’s leading responsible digital entertainment platforms licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), served as the official presenter and a major sponsor of this year’s festivities. The gaming platform made a striking impression with its 21-foot emerald-and-gold float, which illuminated the parade route with an elaborate display of lights and festive design.

At the center of the showpiece was a jeweled masquerade mask featuring Whimsy, the official Casino Plus mascot. Neon-lit scrollwork and glowing mask motifs accentuated the float’s design, creating a dazzling spectacle against the night sky.

Riding on the float’s upper deck, Zeinab greeted cheering spectators and waved to tourists and Bacolodnons at Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds, joining the city’s vibrant celebration of smiles, culture, and community spirit.

Daniella Louisse Merelos, the first-ever Miss Casino Plus Bacolod, also joined the parade along with Zeinab, drawing cheers from the crowd as they waved to festivalgoers.

Named among the Top 5 finalists of Miss Bacolod MassKara, Merelos said the title is about more than glamour, calling it a chance to connect with people and take part in meaningful community experiences.

‘“MassKara is more than just a festival. It is an opportunity to bring people together, share stories, and create meaningful connections. I’m excited to experience the diversity, joy, and vibrant spirit that make Bacolod unique,” Merelos said in an earlier interview with Casino Plus.

The 25-year-old added that she looks forward to joining more Casino Plus activities throughout the festival, where she can meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.

MassKara Festival’s most anticipated highlight

Hundreds of Bacolodnons and tourists lined up in the Megaworld Upper East area as early as 4 p.m. to witness  the electric float parade, as the event is considered one of the most anticipated highlights of MassKara Festival.  

Among them was Audi Johnson, who set up their foldable chairs for one of the most anticipated highlights in MassKara. Audi said his 3-year-old daughter personally wanted to see the lights. 

“Last year, ‘dun kami nakapuwesto sa dulo, hindi convenient kasi ‘di kami makapuwesto. Sa side lang ng kalsada. Mas kampante kami dito,” said Audi, who was accompanied by his wife. Asked what float he was most excited to see, he said, “Siyempre ‘yung Casino Plus!” 

Meanwhile, Marvin Cadapan, a tourist from Makati, said he was starstruck when he saw Zeinab, saying the “Reyna ng Good Vibes” greeted her with a flying kiss when Casino Plus’ float went by. 

Cadapan said watching the floats in the parade was one of his favorite highlights for MassKara, noting this is his first time attending the festivities.

“Sobrang saya kasi na-notice ako ni Zeinab [despite] so many people kanina. Very colorful ang float ng Casino Plus and malawak siya so kitang-kita namin ‘yung float ni Zeinab,” he said. 

‘Arat na!’ Zeinab Celebrates with Bacolodnons

The festivities continued at Lacson Street during Casino Plus’ takeover, where Zeinab joined the MassKara celebration and engaged with festivalgoers in an evening of music, entertainment, and interactive activities.

Casino Plus also treated attendees to exciting prizes, including JBL speakers, an iPad, and other giveaways, adding to the festive atmosphere and giving participants more opportunities to take home memorable prizes.

Beyond the entertainment, the MassKara Festival remains an important platform for promoting Bacolod’s cultural identity and supporting local livelihoods.

The Bacolod Gugma Foundation underscored the festival’s wider economic impact, noting that the influx of visitors generates business for hotels, restaurants, transport providers, local vendors, artists, performers, mask makers, costume designers, production crews, and small businesses.

“When visitors come to Bacolod, they support hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, local vendors, artists, performers, mask makers, costume designers, production workers, and small businesses,” Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon said.

Ascalon explained that the festival’s message, “Making MassKara Matter,” reflects its commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the celebration itself.

“We want the festival to have a positive impact beyond the event venues. We want the smile to reach the communities and the people who work behind the celebration,” he added.

Through its participation in MassKara Festival 2026, Casino Plus continues to bring entertainment and community engagement to one of the country’s most celebrated regional festivals, joining Bacolod in honoring the creativity, resilience, and joyful spirit that define the City of Smiles.

RESPONSIBLE GAMING ADVISORY

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results, including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a PAGCOR-licensed online casino platform in the Philippines, providing secure, regulated, and responsible online gaming experiences for Filipino players. The company is committed to providing a secure, fair, and engaging digital entertainment experience, guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection. With its continuous expansion, Casino Plus is now regarded as one of the country’s leading online casino platforms, combining entertainment excellence with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

MapleStory’s Chang-seop Kim to Share Two-Decade Southeast Asia Journey

 Mr. Chang-seop Kim, General Director of NEXON's MapleStory, will deliver the keynote address at the 2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Ayala Museum in Makati City. Reflecting on MapleStory's two-decade success across Southeast Asia, he will share insights on expanding gaming worlds into transmedia cultural IP, sustaining community building, and cross-sector brand collaborations.

Cultural enthusiasts, digital creatives, and students across Metro Manila are invited to participate in an extraordinary international cultural summit. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Korea (MCST), the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), and the ASEAN Foundation are bringing the “2026 ASEAN-Korea Innovative Culture Forum” to the Ayala Museum in Makati City on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

This prestigious cultural gathering offers a vibrant platform for anyone passionate about contemporary visual arts, Korean creative content, and emerging digital media trends. The forum’s headline speaker is none other than Mr. Chang-seop Kim, the renowned General Director of NEXON’s MapleStory—one of the most beloved Korean online gaming franchises across the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Attendees will gain direct, insider knowledge on how creative storytelling evolves into a world-renowned cultural phenomenon.

This prestigious cultural gathering offers a vibrant platform for anyone passionate about contemporary visual arts, Korean creative content, and emerging digital media trends. The forum’s headline speaker is none other than Mr. Chang-seop Kim, the renowned General Director of NEXON’s MapleStory one of the most beloved Korean online gaming franchises across the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Attendees will gain direct, insider knowledge on how creative storytelling evolves into a world-renowned cultural phenomenon.

In addition to inspiring speaker dialogues, attendees will enjoy free access to “Gathering Point,” a world-class contemporary art exhibition running at the Ayala Museum from November 7 to November 13, 2026. Visitors will experience breathtaking, boundary-pushing artworks by celebrated artists including Mark Justiniani of the Philippines, Kim Joon of Korea, Ari Bayuaji of Indonesia, and master creators from Thailand and Malaysia.

The organizing team has opened official Pre-Registration for local university students, young creators, lifestyle bloggers, museum curators, hospitality art coordinators, and Korean culture advocates.

Selected attendees will receive a VIP guest badge granting complete complimentary access to the day’s activities. The forum provides full English-Korean simultaneous interpretation, a delicious complimentary Korean buffet luncheon, and a customized instant photo booth where attendees can capture and print their memories on the spot.

To celebrate cultural exchange, a Grand Finale Raffle Draw will take place immediately after the final session at 4:30 PM, exclusively for dedicated delegates who complete the full forum journey (10:00 AM to 4:30 PM). An extraordinary array of premium Korean gifts will be awarded, including:- Premium Electronics: Samsung Galaxy Buds 4, Samsung Galaxy Fit3 smart bands, and JBL portable Bluetooth speakers;- Official K-Pop Memorabilia: Rare BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) LP vinyls, BTS concert albums, and J-Hope solo albums, alongside SEVENTEEN unit photobooks, fan-meeting packages, and BOYNEXTDOOR tour releases;- K-Beauty Sets: Luxury Sulwhasoo skincare packages, Dokdo deep-hydration gift sets, and trending Korean skincare toner pads.

Participation is entirely free of charge, but attendance requires prior screening through the official Google Forms registration link. With high regional demand and curated entry clearance, aspiring participants are strongly encouraged to register early.

Registration Information

Prospective attendees, arts and culture professionals, museum and gallery curators, creative technologists, and academic researchers may submit their applications via the official registration portal:

Registration Link:
Google Forms: https://forms.gle/Q4fUW5TLBXbK8oWSA
Website: https://joinenjoy.com.ph/
(Due to limited gallery capacity and curated seating assignments, early registration is highly encouraged.)

About Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc.

Established in the Philippines in 2002, Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc. (IRC) is a premier MICE and destination management specialist with a proven track record in orchestrating high-level, bilateral governmental and corporate events adhering to rigorous state-level protocol standards. Notably, IRC spearheaded local operational management for the Korea-Philippines Business Forum, held on the occasion of the South Korean President’s state visit to the Philippines to commemorate the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations. IRC is a fully accredited travel agency licensed in the Philippines, South Korea, and Cuba, and is officially designated by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea to process Korean electronic visas (e-visas). Through its flagship platform, "Join Enjoy," IRC continues to lead bilateral cultural exchange, tourism, and business connectivity between the Philippines and South Korea.

New Pet Care Brands Amico & Veravit Enter the Local Market, Name Maxene Magalona as Brand Ambassador

 

 Amico Innovations Inc. celebrated the growth of its pet care brands, Amico and Veravit, at the Amico & Veravit Pet Carenival, held on October 16, 2026, at Avire Tower in Quezon City. The event officially introduced actress and cat mom Maxene Magalona as the brands’ newest celebrity ambassador, bringing together influencers, business partners, media, and pets for interactive activities and educational discussions on responsible pet care. Through the event, the company highlighted its commitment to making science-backed, functional pet nutrition more accessible to Filipino households. With upcoming product innovations and expansion into major retailers such as Robinsons, Puregold and 7-Eleven, Amico Innovations Inc. aims to raise the standard of pet care in the Philippines.

Pet care is so much more than choosing a cute animal. It’s knowing how to look after them, knowing their limits, picking up after them, and feeding them right. Amico Innovations Inc. wants to add one more thing to the list: pet care is fun.

This is the thesis for their brand launch event, The Amico & Veravit Pet Carenival: Where Pet Care Takes Centerstage. Walking through the event alongside influencers, photographers, furry friends, and even people on stilts, reveals Amicotown and Veraville, named after the two brands under the Amico Innovations Inc. Pet Care umbrella: Amico and Veravit.

Following the successful launch of Veravit Savory Beef Dry Dog Food and Veravit Tuna Steak Cat Food in 2025, Amico Innovations Inc. has continued to expand its presence in the local pet care market with a growing portfolio of products for dogs and cats nationwide, as highlighted by the company’s CEO, Francis Simisim, in his welcoming remarks.

Veravit is built around science-backed nutrition formulated for all breeds and life stages with extensive benefits that support everyday health. Complementing this, Amico launched in April 2026 and offers more tailored nutrition developed around specific needs, including their Amico Dry Cat Food with Urinary Care, Amico Medium-Large Breed Adult Dog Food with Joint Support, Amico Wet Food with Blood Support, and other life-stage-specific dry food for Puppies, Small Breed Dogs, Kittens & Mother Cats. Together, the two brands provide Filipino fur parents with a broader range of accessible and purposeful pet care options.

At the Pet Carenival, their products are proudly on display, with attendees going from booth to booth, exploring the attractions that the brands have to offer.

At around 4pm, Kharl Yeung, COO of Amico Innovations Inc. and recognized this year as one of Forbes’ Asia 2026 30 Under 30, took the Carenival Grand Stage in front of the gathered crowd to discuss the journey of the company, and just how far they’ve come.

“Amico is built for our friends, our companions,” Yeung shared, explaining that Amico is an Italian word meaning “friend,” reflecting the brand’s commitment to caring for pets as cherished companions. He also highlighted the company’s partnership with Monde Nissin Corporation, stating, “Monde Nissin is the partner who believes in the vision that we have.” Yeung further shared how Monde Nissin’s Better Food Forward campaign aligns with Amico’s own vision of providing better, more purposeful nutrition. “What we’re putting out here is not just pet food, it’s functional pet food,” he emphasized, reinforcing the company’s commitment to raising the standard of pet care in the Philippines.

Following that, he welcomed onto the stage Amico & Veravit’s new celebrity brand ambassador: actress, yoga and meditation teacher, and proud cat mom Maxene Magalona.

Magalona shared how her two cats, Yoyo and Snow, unexpectedly came into her life. “These two cats, hindi ko sila hinanap. They were given to me, I believe, as gifts, as blessings.” She recalled how Yoyo originally belonged to her brother, Frank Magalona, and was only supposed to stay with her temporarily before she eventually adopted him as her own. “Yoyo came into my life during one of the hardest challenges in my life,” she revealed. “I’m 39 years old and I don’t have any children, kaya my cats, they really give me so much joy.” Snow, on the other hand, was a gift from the brother of her partner, Geoff Gonzalez, to Geoff's son, Liam.

Speaking about her decision to partner with Amico and Veravit, Magalona shared how deeply she connected with the brands’ vision of treating pets as family. “I’m a firm believer that what you give out to the universe, you get back in return. So I treat my pets as my family, and I know Veravit and Amico, that’s how they think of pets when they’re making the food. You make sure that you give them the best nutrition and everything that can help them become healthy and happy.”

When asked what better pet care means to her, Magalona concluded, “Better pet care means to be present with our pets, to connect with them, and not just to treat them like objects.” Her message echoed the heart of Amico and Veravit’s mission: to build a future where better pet care goes beyond nutrition and fosters deeper, more meaningful connections between pets and the people who love them.

However, that wasn’t all that they had in store for attendees. Their resident vets Doc Arah Virtucio and Doc Julia Capistrano were welcomed to centerstage to help demonstrate proper pet care to the attending furparents. They made clear that Amico’s goal is not simply to get attention: it is to bring informed pet care into the spotlight.

The event ended with happy guests holding their personalized tote bags full of Amico & Veravit goodies.

What’s next for Amico Innovations Inc.? Keep an eye out for more flavors of their pet treats and cat litter to round out the kind of care every furparent needs. The company is also set to expand its retail presence, with products soon to be available in more stores, including Robinsons, Puregold, 7-Eleven, and other retail partners, making quality pet care even more accessible to Filipino households. One thing is for certain: Amico Innovations Inc. will continue to build products around the evolving needs of Filipino pets and pet parents.

Amico & Veravit products are available online on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop and offline through key retail partners like Landers, Shopwise, South Supermarket, Ever, Heyday, Gaisano Malls, and pet specialty stores. Follow @lifewithamico and @veravitpets for any updates on their brand and product line-up.

The Future of HR Is Here: 4th HR e-Knowledge Summit 2026 Challenges Philippine Organizations to Lead the AI Revolution

The future of work is moving faster than traditional HR processes can keep up. As organizations face growing pressure to attract exceptional talent, retain high-performing employees, and improve operational efficiency, one question becomes increasingly important: Is your HR strategy ready for the AI era?

On October 23, 2026, HR Game Changers, powered by HR Calabarzon Group, Inc., will bring together HR professionals, business leaders, and people managers for the 4th HR e-Knowledge Summit 2026, a full-day learning experience designed to help organizations rethink how they attract, develop, engage, reward, and retain their people.

Taking place at the Garden Ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La Manila, Ortigas, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the summit will also offer an online participation option, making its insights accessible to professionals and organizations beyond Metro Manila.

Guided by its theme, “Lead with Clarity. Drive with Strategy. Empower Every Stage of the Employee Journey with AI,” the summit will explore how organizations can embrace emerging technologies while preserving the human judgment, leadership, and employee-centered values that effective HR demands.

The Cost of Standing Still: Why HR Must Evolve Now

For today's HR leaders, the challenge extends far beyond filling vacancies and processing employee records. Organizations increasingly expect HR to deliver measurable business value, anticipate workforce needs, strengthen employee experience, and help leaders make better decisions.

Yet repetitive administrative tasks, inefficient recruitment workflows, talent shortages, and employee retention challenges can prevent HR teams from focusing on the strategic work that matters most.

Artificial intelligence offers new possibilities—but meaningful transformation requires more than adopting another tool. It requires understanding where AI can make a difference, how to integrate it into existing processes, and how to ensure technology serves both business objectives and people.

The 4th HR e-Knowledge Summit 2026 is designed to help participants explore these questions through expert perspectives, practical discussions, and insights into the changing role of HR.

One Day. A Broader Perspective on the Entire Employee Journey.

Rather than treating AI as a standalone HR application, the summit examines opportunities across the employee lifecycle—from attracting candidates and onboarding new hires to developing talent, improving engagement, designing rewards, and retaining high performers.

Participants will explore strategies and emerging practices in:

AI and Human-Centric Transformation: Understanding how to integrate AI while keeping people at the center of organizational decisions.

Talent Acquisition and Talent Intelligence: Exploring smarter approaches to candidate sourcing, recruitment, onboarding, and future talent development.

Leadership, Engagement, and Employee Well-Being: Strengthening the people practices that support healthier, more productive workplaces.

Total Rewards and Employee Value Proposition: Rethinking how organizations attract, motivate, and retain talent.

Organizational Design, Culture, and the Future of Work: Preparing organizations to adapt to changing business demands and evolving workforce expectations.

HR as a Strategic Business Partner: Connecting people strategy with organizational performance, workforce transformation, and long-term business goals.

The program will feature industry voices including Francis Kong and other experienced HR and business leaders who will share perspectives on leadership, human-centric AI, talent management, and organizational transformation.

For attendees, the objective is clear: gain a broader understanding of the challenges shaping modern HR and identify ideas that can inform decisions back in their own workplaces.

Turn Learning Into a Competitive Advantage for Your Organization

Panelists From Left to Right: Vanessa  Michelle Cordero-Garcia, Pinky Diokno, Dr. Ronald Malicdem, Mikel Leroi Balansag

The summit is intended for professionals who want to strengthen their capabilities, challenge outdated practices, and prepare their organizations for the next phase of work.

Whether you lead an HR department, manage a growing business, oversee talent acquisition, or influence organizational strategy, the summit offers an opportunity to:

Identify HR processes that may benefit from AI-enabled solutions.

Explore ways to improve recruitment efficiency and talent decision-making.

Strengthen employee engagement and retention strategies.

Reduce repetitive administrative work and create more room for strategic initiatives.

Build a stronger understanding of the relationship between people, technology, leadership, and business performance.

Connect with fellow HR practitioners and business leaders facing similar workforce challenges.

AI is not a substitute for effective leadership. When implemented thoughtfully, however, it can help HR professionals make better use of their time, information, and capabilities.

That is the opportunity the summit seeks to bring into focus: not simply doing HR differently, but enabling HR to contribute more meaningfully to organizational success.

Bring Your Team. Multiply the Learning. Save on Registration.

Organizational transformation rarely happens through one person alone. Equipping HR colleagues, people managers, and business decision-makers with a shared understanding of emerging practices can help organizations move from individual learning to collective action.

To support team participation, the summit offers the following registration packages:

INDIVIDUAL PASS — ₱7,000

For HR professionals, practitioners, and business leaders investing in their professional development.

ONSITE TEAM PASS — ₱35,000 | 5 + 1 FREE

Bring six participants while paying for only five. Compared with six individual passes at ₱7,000 each, the package saves your organization ₱7,000.

ONLINE TEAM PASS — ₱20,000 | 5 + 1 FREE

Bring six participants online for ₱20,000, giving organizations a convenient option to learn together regardless of location.

Onsite participation will be subject to venue capacity. Organizations interested in face-to-face learning are encouraged to complete registration promptly and confirm availability.

The Countdown to a More Future-Ready HR Function Starts Now

With the summit taking place on Friday, October 23, the opportunity to bring together your HR team and explore the next generation of people strategy is approaching.

For HR professionals, the question is no longer simply whether the workplace will change. It is how effectively they can help their organizations navigate that change.

The 4th HR e-Knowledge Summit 2026 invites the Philippine HR community to move beyond reactive people management, embrace informed innovation, and strengthen the strategic role of HR in building future-ready organizations.

Lead with clarity. Drive with strategy. Empower every stage of the employee journey with AI.

Register now at https://hrcgihrgamechangers.com/

Choose your individual, onsite team, or online team package and secure your participation in the 4th HR e-Knowledge Summit 2026.

About HR Game Changers powered by HR Calabarzon Group, Inc.

HR Game Changers is an SEC-registered non-profit organization powered by HR Calabarzon Group, Inc. Founded on March 4, 2020, the organization is dedicated to uplifting the HR profession and transforming workplaces across the Philippines through education, professional development, partnerships, and community engagement. With a growing community of more than 18,000 HR professionals, HR Game Changers works to equip practitioners with the knowledge, leadership capabilities, and professional networks needed to champion people-first workplaces and drive positive change. Guided by its mission of growing people and hearts, one at a time, the organization continues to create learning opportunities that strengthen HR effectiveness, encourage collaboration, and advance the future of work. Learn more at https://hrcgihrgamechangers.com/

Skyro Partners with LenderLink to Strengthen Credit Assessment and Responsible Lending in the Philippines

 

 Skyro, an SEC-registered fintech platform in the Philippines, has joined LenderLink’s Credit Intelligence Network, gaining access to real-time credit insights from a growing network of financial institutions, while contributing its own consented borrower data to the network.

The partnership gives Skyro a broader view of borrowers' credit histories to support more accurate and comprehensive credit assessments.

The partnership comes as Skyro expands its role in Filipinos’ everyday financial lives. Following its recent brand refresh, Skyro is moving beyond financing individual purchases to providing financial solutions to everyday needs.

Since launching in the country in 2022, Skyro has issued more than three million loans, with products and services designed to support customers across more moments in their financial lives.

Access to more comprehensive and timely credit information can help lenders better understand borrowers' financial behavior, including those whose credit histories may not be fully reflected in traditional records.

Under LenderLink's consent-based model, borrower information is shared only with the requesting lender, and only when the borrower provides consent. This gives lenders additional context about how customers manage credit across different financial products, beyond what may be visible through their own records.

With access to a broader range of credit information, lenders can make better-informed assessments as customers use different financial products and services. For borrowers, this can mean their financial behavior is assessed using a more complete picture of their credit history.

“Skyro is evolving from a financing provider into a broader financial partner for its customers. That evolution makes access to timely, reliable credit intelligence even more important,” said Christo Georgiev, Co-Founder and CEO of LenderLink.

“We’re excited to have Skyro join the network and contribute to a stronger collective view of Filipino borrowers. By bringing together credit insights from participating institutions, we can help lenders to make better informed decisions and strengthen responsible lending across the industry.”

For Skyro, the partnership builds on its existing approach to technology-driven credit assessment. The company’s proprietary AI-driven credit decisioning model already combines traditional and alternative data with advanced analytics to support fast, carefully assessed credit decisions.

LenderLink's network provides another source of credit information that can complement Skyro's existing capabilities while its expanding product portfolio is designed to meet customers across more everyday financial needs.

“Responsible lending starts with understanding the customer,” said Nasim Aliev, Skyro Co-Founder and Co-CEO. “As Skyro grows into a broader financial partner, we want to keep improving how we understand credit behavior and serve customers responsibly. Through LenderLink, we can draw on more timely and comprehensive credit information to support better-informed lending decisions. At the same time, we're helping build a stronger credit information network that benefits the wider financial ecosystem.”

Today, the network connects 40+ contributing institutions and more than 45 million credit records, with over 1.5 million unique borrower records exchanged monthly. Through LenderLink’s secure, consent-driven infrastructure, participating institutions can access real-time credit data across multiple contributors through a single API.

As lending continues to move faster and customers increasingly use multiple financial products, the ability to see the bigger picture becomes increasingly important.

Skyro joining LenderLink is another step toward a credit ecosystem where better data is not held in silos, but becomes more useful when shared responsibly.

About LenderLink Inc
LenderLink is the Philippines' first real-time, consent-based credit data exchange, connecting a growing number of financial institutions across a shared pool of more than 45 million borrower records. LenderLink enables faster, fairer credit decisions by giving lenders secure, real-time visibility into borrower history, helping bring millions of underserved Filipinos into the formal financial system.

The platform is ISO 27001-certified, recognized by the Credit Information Corporation (CIC) as a Certified Technical Service Provider, and aligned with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Open Finance Framework (BSP Circular No. 1122). Backed by Kaya Founders, Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN), and Iterative, LenderLink is building the infrastructure for faster, more informed and more collaborative credit decisions in the Philippines.

About Skyro
Skyro is a high-growth, digital-first fintech group delivering scalable, responsible financial access across high-potential emerging markets. Powered by proprietary data science, AI-driven credit decisioning, and alternative-data scoring, the company combines a mobile-native experience with modular fintech architecture to serve underserved client segments at scale.

As of 2026, Skyro has a registered user base of more than 7 million and a credit portfolio exceeding $200 million. The company's ambition is to become a leading full-spectrum financial services group across high-potential markets by combining capability proven at scale with a commitment to building each business around the needs of the market it serves.