Call for Photo Entries for 'TPSW 2026', Celebrating Volunteerism in Asia

  

In celebration of International Volunteer Year 2026, the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) invites photographers across Asia to submit entries for 'Ten Photos to Shake the World', spotlighting local volunteers driving community change.

In celebration of the International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026, the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) is inviting amateur and professional photographers across Asia to submit their work for the Ten Photos to Shake the World (TPSW 2026) for a chance to win cash prizes and showcase their advocacies. 

As a pan-Asian non-profit committed to sustainable development across the region, ASSIST centers TPSW 2026 on the theme “Volunteers in Frame: Capturing the Spirit of Volunteerism and Social Impact.” The competition spotlights the transformative role local volunteers play in driving civic action and social change – an effort ASSIST is proud to align with the spirit of IVY 2026.

The Executive Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV), Toily Kurbanov, says about TPSW 2026: "Too often, volunteers are the people behind the scenes. In the spirit of the International Volunteer Year, this competition puts them in the frame and highlights the role they play in building stronger communities."

First launched in 2011, TPSW was created to elevate diverse themes of social responsibility through photography. Following a brief hiatus after 2022, the competition makes its high-profile return in 2026 with a renewed focus on local volunteerism. The competition is open to amateur and professional photographers across the Philippines, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, and Thailand, inviting visual storytellers to capture the unsung efforts driving local progress. 

“Volunteerism is love put to action,” says Francis Macatulad, representing ASSIST. Beyond being a noble ideal, volunteerism serves as a crucial driving force behind ASSIST’s social development and community transformation projects across Asia. “Volunteers are the hearts, hands and voices of an organization's social development program---unpaid and often unsung heroes. With TPSW, ASSIST Asia hopes to celebrate their passion and recognize their invaluable contribution to nation-building,” he adds.

ASSIST Rep also encourages photographers to participate and amplify grassroots volunteer efforts through photography and storytelling.

Participants are invited to submit original photographs that illustrate local volunteer efforts, with top entries competing for cash prizes, international recognition, and features across organizational platforms. 

Submit your entries now and have an opportunity to win awards and cash prizes! 

Submission of entries is extended until November 20, 2026.

For mechanics and questions, visit the TPSW official Facebook page.

About Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST)

ASSIST (Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation) is a self-sustaining pan-Asian NGO working at the intersection of social impact and sustainable transformation. True to its role as a Partner for Progress, ASSIST collaborates with corporate and institutional funders to deliver co-created initiatives as well as award-winning flagship programs that convert social investments into lasting local capacity. Explore our work and partner with us: www.assistasia.org

P.A. Properties Showcases Solida House Model Mock-Up at Pag-IBIG Fund’s 2nd National Housing Expo

 

P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) marked a milestone at the Pag-IBIG Fund’s 2nd National Housing Expo, held on October 19–20, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, by showcasing an actual mock-up of its Solida house model for the first time.

Moving beyond traditional property displays, P.A. Properties gave prospective homeowners the opportunity to experience the design, layout, and features of the Solida model firsthand, helping them envision their future homes and take a step closer to homeownership.

The initiative reflected the company’s willingness to explore new approaches and push its capabilities to create a more engaging homebuying experience. The results demonstrated the initiative’s effectiveness, with P.A. Properties recorded 32 unit reservations during the two-day event.

P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin, the company’s joint venture behind the Idesia brand, also recorded 9 unit reservations during the two-day event, further strengthening the group’s overall sales performance and demonstrating continued market interest in its housing offerings.

Why SOLIDA?

For P.A. Properties, SOLIDA represents more than a house model. It embodies the company’s product philosophy: Matibay, Maganda, Mabilis, at Abot-kaya — durable, beautiful, efficiently delivered, and affordable.

The model reflects the company’s commitment to providing Filipino families with practical, well-designed, and attainable homes that deliver quality, design, and value.

A Milestone for the Team and the Brand

Bringing the Solida mock-up to the expo for the first time challenged P.A. Properties to go beyond its usual practices. The initiative required extensive coordination, adaptability, and teamwork, bringing out the best in the people behind the project.

Architect Marwin Laro, Vice President for Planning, Design and Engineering, highlighted the collaboration behind the achievement.

“This first-time initiative challenged us to go beyond our usual processes and work together to turn the concept into reality. Seeing the mock-up come to life made all the hard work worthwhile,” Laro said.

The successful showcase of the Solida mock-up reflects P.A. Properties’ commitment to continuously improve how it serves aspiring Filipino homeowners. Through innovative housing solutions, thoughtfully designed communities, and customer-focused initiatives, the company remains dedicated to making homeownership more accessible and attainable.

As P.A. Properties continues to grow and innovate, it invites Filipino families to explore its range of housing offerings and discover a home that suits their needs, lifestyle, and budget.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to continuously find better ways to serve Filipino families. We remain focused on providing quality, affordable housing options and making the journey toward homeownership more accessible to the communities we serve,” said Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz, CEO & President of P.A. Properties.

P.A. Properties’ participation in the 2nd National Housing Expo reinforces its commitment to making homeownership more attainable through thoughtfully designed housing and customer-focused initiatives.

About P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation

Nestled in San Pedro, Laguna, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) is a leading developer of low to medium-cost housing communities in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 1994, the company has crafted over 30,000 homes across key Philippine provinces, with plans to build an additional 20 communities in the next 5 years. P.A. Properties, guided by the tagline "Behind Every Home is a Story," not only addresses the nation's housing backlog but also actively contributes to economic growth. Through philanthropic initiatives, such as hospital donations in Cabuyao, providing right of way in Pampanga for civic centers, and establishing SanJo's markets in provinces like Laguna and Bulacan, the company weaves a narrative of community development and nationwide impact.

Momcozy Celebrates 11.11 with a Focus on Making Every Mom Moment Better

  

This 11.11, Momcozy invites moms across Southeast Asia to upgrade every mom moment with practical solutions for everyday motherhood. From 1-14 November 2026, shoppers can enjoy up to 25% off participating products on Momcozy’s official stores on Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada.

A highlight of this year’s Cozy Sale is a special 30% discount on the Wellness 1 Warm-Massage Wearable Breast Pump, available in limited quantities across Southeast Asia while stocks last. Bringing warmth, massage and pumping together in one wearable device, the offer gives moms an opportunity to upgrade their pumping routine at a special 11.11 price.

Motherhood is made up of countless everyday moments, and even small improvements can make a meaningful difference. With ‘Upgrade Every Mom Moment,’ we want to empower moms to discover practical solutions that fit their real lives—making feeding, caregiving, and everyday routines feel a little more comfortable and manageable.

Find Your Mom Moment Upgrade This 11.11

Upgrade Your Pumping Moment 

The campaign reflects Momcozy’s Putting Moms First philosophy by connecting product features with the experiences they are designed to support.

The Wellness 1 Warm-Massage Wearable Breast Pump combines 360° wraparound warmth, synchronised vibration massage and baby-inspired SoftPulse suction. Three warmth settings and app controls allow users to personalise their sessions, bringing warmth, massage and pumping together in a wearable device. W1 will be available at 30% off in limited quantities across Southeast Asia this 11.11, while stocks last.

The Air 1 Ultra-slim Breast Pump offers a slim wearable profile, a transparent top for checking alignment and monitoring milk collection, and a wireless charging case for charging and storage between sessions. These features address practical considerations for mothers incorporating pumping into work and other daily commitments.

The two models demonstrate different approaches to supporting mothers’ preferences, with the Wellness 1 emphasising integrated warmth and massage and the Air 1 focusing on a slim design and portability.

Upgrade Your After-Feeding Moment 

The KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer and Sterilizer(BS03) combines washing, steam sterilising, drying and storage functions. It accommodates up to four bottles with accessories, depending on the load, and offers a 19-minute rapid wash, with additional time required for sterilising and drying. By automating several stages of bottle care, it can reduce the hands-on work required of parents and caregivers.

Upgrade Your On-the-Go Moment

For families feeding away from home, Momcozy’s portable breast milk warmer serves complementary purposes. The cooler is designed to keep expressed milk chilled during transport, while the rechargeable, cordless warmer provides an option for warming a portion when needed. Together, they support parents planning feeds around work, family visits and travel.

Find Your Mom Moment Upgrade This 11.11 

The Momcozy 11.11 Cozy Sale will be available through participating official stores on Shopee, TikTok Shop and Lazada. Product availability, offers, and promotion dates may vary by market and channel. Consumers can refer to their local official stores for confirmed prices and terms. 

With “Upgrade Every Mom Moment,” Momcozy celebrates the little moments that make up motherhood and the meaningful difference small comforts can bring. By creating solutions that fit into moms’ everyday lives, Momcozy hopes to make each moment of feeding, caring, and growing together a little easier, more comfortable, and more cozy—because every mom deserves moments that feel better, too.

Discover more ways to upgrade every mom moment this 11.11 in The Asian Parent’s Shopping Guide.

Shop on Shopee Now:  shopee.ph/momcozy.ph 

From Setback to Second Chance: Cebuana Lhuillier Authorized Agent Turns Adversity into Opportunity

  

Naprey Almario (right), one of Cebuana Lhuillier’s top-performing Authorized Agents in Mindanao, turned a pandemic setback into a thriving business, bringing financial services closer to his community. 

Across the Philippines, more than 30,000 Cebuana Lhuillier Authorized Agents are strengthening local communities by transforming neighborhood businesses into trusted financial hubs that provide convenient access to essential financial services. Through remittances, bills payment, bank transfers, insurance, e-load, and other financial services, these community-based businesses are meeting everyday financial needs while unlocking new revenue streams. 

"Our Authorized Agents show how entrepreneurship can make a real difference in people's lives," said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier. "When local businesses grow, they create opportunities for their communities and help bring essential financial services closer to more Filipinos." 

One of the many Filipinos whose livelihood was transformed is Naprey Almario, a teacher, business owner, and advocate for persons with disabilities (PWDs) from Davao City. When the pandemic forced his travel agency to suspend operations, he suddenly lost his primary source of livelihood and began searching for a new way to support his family.  

"During the pandemic, travel was restricted, so my main source of income completely stopped," Naprey recalled. "I had to pivot and find ways to survive. That's when I decided to become a Cebuana Lhuillier Authorized Agent." 

Instead of simply recovering financially, Naprey built his business around what his community needed most. 

"I noticed there was only one bill payment center in our area," he said. "When you start a business, you should first look at what your community needs. That's the service you should provide." 

Starting with bills payment, Naprey steadily expanded his offerings as Cebuana Lhuillier entrusted him with more products and services. Today, his outlet provides domestic and international remittances, insurance, e-load, and other everyday financial solutions, making it a trusted one-stop financial hub for the community. 

As his business continued to grow, he was recognized as one of the top PeraLink Retail Agents in Mindanao in terms of sales and transactions. His inspiring journey also made him a finalist in Cebuana Lhuillier's Happiest Pinoy 2025, the company's flagship search that honors Filipinos whose stories exemplify resilience, purpose, and compassion.  

For Naprey, the partnership meant more than business growth. "When I applied for Happiest Pinoy, I shared how becoming a Cebuana Lhuillier Authorized Agent saved me during the pandemic," he said. "While travel was on hold, it became my source of income. It literally saved me. It wasn't just about the financial aspect. Even my mental health improved. From being stuck at home with nothing to do, I had something to focus on again. It helped me move forward." 

For Philippe Andre Lhuillier, Senior Executive Vice President of Cebuana Lhuillier, Naprey's story highlights the strength of the company's Authorized Agent network. "We are committed to helping our partners grow by continuously expanding our ecosystem of financial services and providing reliable support. Their success reflects the strength of a partnership built for long-term growth."  

Today, Naprey continues to grow Almario Ticketing Office and Laundry Shop while also balancing his roles as a teacher, entrepreneur, and an advocate. Through his journey, he hopes to inspire fellow entrepreneurs to build businesses around the needs of their communities, showing that even a modest investment can create sustainable opportunities while making essential financial services more accessible to all. 

Miranalla Farm to Host Hands-On Earthbag Building Workshop in Bohol This November

 

Miranalla Farm will host a hands-on Earthbag Building Workshop in Guindulman, Bohol, from November 23–29, 2026, led by architect and natural builder Rebecca Whan of Auwa Earth.
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What if one of the most useful materials for building was already beneath our feet?

That question is at the heart of Miranalla Farm’s upcoming Earthbag Building Workshop, a seven-day hands-on natural building program taking place from November 23–29, 2026, at the working permaculture farm in Guindulman, Bohol.

Discover how earth offers a natural, durable, and beautiful way to build.
Discover how earth offers a natural, durable, and beautiful way to build.
Earthbag building is a construction method in which sturdy woven bags are filled with damp local subsoil, stacked in courses, tamped until solid, and secured between layers with barbed wire. The completed walls are then protected with natural earth or lime plaster.

The method is relatively simple, but its relationship with the land is what makes it especially relevant to Miranalla Farm.

As a working permaculture farm, Miranalla is built around observing natural systems, using resources thoughtfully, and finding ways for people, food production, structures, and the surrounding environment to work together. Hosting an earthbag workshop extends those same principles from growing and caring for the land into the way spaces can be built upon it.

Much of an earthbag wall can be made using subsoil sourced directly from the building site, reducing the amount of material that needs to be transported in. Its thick earthen walls provide thermal mass, while the construction process itself uses simple tools and repeatable techniques that allow many hands to participate in building.

The workshop therefore goes beyond demonstrating an alternative construction technique. It gives participants an opportunity to explore a larger question central to permaculture: how can we build in a way that responds to the resources, climate, and conditions already present in a place?

Leading the program is Rebecca Whan, an Australian architect, natural-building educator, and founder and principal of Auwa Earth. Whan’s work spans earth building, eco-design, and sustainable construction, with training in bio-architecture, bamboo construction, agroforestry, and specialized earth construction.

Over seven days, participants will follow the process from soil to wall, beginning with soil testing and earth-mix preparation before moving into foundation and circular layout, earthbag filling, laying and tamping, door and window construction, natural plastering and finishing, and principles of sustainable building.

Get hands-on with natural building at Miranalla Farm’s earthbag workshop.
Get hands-on with natural building at Miranalla Farm’s earthbag workshop.
The hands-on format is intentional. Instead of only discussing natural building, participants will experience how earth is prepared, shaped, compacted, protected, and ultimately transformed into a built structure.

For Miranalla Farm, bringing the workshop to a working permaculture setting creates an opportunity to connect how we cultivate land with how we inhabit it—treating buildings not as something separate from their environment, but as another part of how people live and work within a landscape.

The Earthbag Building Workshop will be held at Miranalla Farm in Guindulman, Bohol, from November 23–29, 2026. Participation is limited, with 10 slots remaining.

About Miranalla Farm
Miranalla Farm is a working permaculture farm in Guindulman, Bohol that creates space for hands-on learning, regenerative practices, and a closer relationship with the land. Through workshops and immersive experiences, the farm brings together agriculture, sustainability, intentional living, and practical skills that encourage people to engage more directly with the environments they inhabit.

Casino Plus makes history with Evolution's first-ever offline collaboration in the Philippines

Casino Plus, one of the country’s leading responsible digital entertainment platforms licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), has made history as the first operator to stage an offline collaboration with Evolution in the Philippines, taking a partnership built online over nearly five years into a live setting for the first time.

Casino Plus hosted the historic, invitation-only event on October 30 at Dusit Thani, Makati City, Philippines, where Casino Plus players received an exclusive preview of Game Night, Evolution's newest live casino game show, ahead of its commercial release. The evening also included an awarding ceremony led by Cristina Hsia, Evolution's Country Manager for the Philippines, alongside the Casino Plus CEO. 

“This is a historic first for Casino Plus and for the Philippine market,” said Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma.“Evolution's decision to bring its first-ever offline collaboration in the country to Casino Plus reflects years of consistent work under PAGCOR's regulatory framework. For our players, it is assurance that the platform they use every day is held to the standards of one of the most established names in live casino. For the industry, it shows what a regulated Philippine operator and a global supplier can build together.”

Why Casino Plus was first

Casino Plus began its partnership with Evolution in 2022 with slot games and expanded its online casino offerings to include Evolution's live casino portfolio in May 2023. Evolution, listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and active in regulated markets worldwide, conducts due diligence before entering customer relationships and continues to evaluate partners over time.

Gionata La Torre, Evolution CEO Asia, described Casino Plus as the company's “trusted partner in the regulated Philippine market” and “the natural choice” for its first offline engagement in the country.

“We value their reliability, how they run their platform, and their commitment to responsible gaming and the player experience,” La Torre said. “Our decision to work with Casino Plus on this milestone reflects the trust we have built in the relationship and the standards we have seen through our years of working together.”

Spytma said the partnership was earned through conduct rather than claims. “Trust is not something we announce. It is something partners like Evolution see in how we operate every day, under PAGCOR's rules,” he said. “Integrity is the foundation of everything we build, and this collaboration is what that looks like from the outside.”

A regulated operator with international reach

The collaboration adds an international proof point to the compliance record Casino Plus has built under PAGCOR, including Know Your Customer verification, anti-money laundering controls and a ₱1-billion PhilFirst Surety Bond Protection Program for qualified player funds launched in December 2025.

It also places Casino Plus at the centre of Evolution's growing Philippine presence. The supplier opened its first live casino studio in Asia, in Cebu, in 2025, and La Torre said the country is “a key part of our growth in Asia.”

Casino Plus and Evolution described the event as the beginning of a longer-term partnership, with plans to continue developing new gaming experiences for Filipino players. “Our biggest goal is to keep building our relationship over time and create experiences that matter to Filipino players,” La Torre said.

“A historic first only matters if it leads somewhere. Game Night is the first chapter, not the last,” Spytma said. “This is a milestone for the regulated Philippine market as much as for Casino Plus. It shows global suppliers that licensed local operators are ready to build world-class experiences with them.”

What it means for Casino Plus players

Casino Plus players were the first in the country to see Game Night, which adapts the format of a classic games night into a live casino game show. It is built around a 54-segment money wheel, with multipliers on every spin and five bonus games: Connect 4, Battleship, Hungry Hungry Hippos, Snakes and Ladders, and Rock Paper Scissors.

Evolution said it plans, where possible, to offer Casino Plus players early access to selected new Evolution games, alongside continued joint online and offline campaigns in the Philippines.

“Our mission is to bring fun to people, and to do it responsibly,” Spytma said. “Taking Evolution's games off the screen and into the room for our players is that mission at its best. They deserve experiences built to global standards, and that is what we intend to keep delivering.”

“For Evolution, partnering with Casino Plus means taking a relationship we have built over several years and bringing it to life in a new way for Filipino players,” La Torre said. “We share a focus on quality, innovation, responsible gaming and the player experience.”

Casino Plus began its partnership with Evolution in November 2021 with slot games and expanded its online casino offerings to include Evolution's live casino portfolio in May 2023.

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.

Gaming is for persons 21 years old and above only. Gambling can be addictive. Know when to stop. For assistance, email ResponsibleGaming@pagcor.ph.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platform in the Philippines that provides secure, regulated, and responsible digital entertainment for Filipino players. Guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection, the company is committed to a fair and engaging experience backed by verified payouts. Through its continued expansion, Casino Plus has become one of the country’s leading online gaming platforms, pairing entertainment with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

ABOUT EVOLUTION

Evolution is a global B2B provider of online casino entertainment, known for creating and growing the online live casino category. Founded in 2006, the company employs more than 22,000 people across 27 studios on six continents, including its live casino studio in Cebu, Philippines. Its group brands include Evolution, NetEnt, Red Tiger, Ezugi, Big Time Gaming, Nolimit City, Sneaky Slots and DigiWheel. Evolution is headquartered in Sweden and listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

Research for Nation Building: Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan’s legacy

 

 Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan is a leading Southeast Asian development economist and public servant who received the Outstanding SEARCA Scholarship Alumni (OSSA) Award in Research from the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture. Beginning his academic journey with a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 1982, he dedicated his career to addressing the socioeconomic challenges confronting smallholder farmers and vulnerable rural households. Rather than treating economic growth merely as an abstract statistic, he shifted the paradigm of poverty measurement across the Philippines and East Asia from simple headcount tallies to assessing the actual depth and severity of deprivation. By demonstrating the complex links between agricultural issues, income distribution, and regional inequality, his research provided crucial evidence for universities, development banks, and government institutions, earning him a dedicatory Festschrift in 2022. Dr. Balisacan successfully bridged the gap between academic scholarship and state governance, utilizing rigorous data in leadership roles such as Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) to enact targeted social protection policies, enhance market competition, and modernize agriculture.

Dr. Balisacan is widely regarded as one of the region’s leading development economists. He received the Outstanding SEARCA Scholarship Alumni (OSSA) Award in Research from the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). This award honors alumni whose work shows both academic excellence and a strong commitment to serving society.

Purpose-driven economics

Dr. Balisacan started his academic path with a SEARCA graduate scholarship at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), where he earned his Master of Science in Agricultural Economics in 1982. During his time at UPLB, he developed a strong interest in the welfare of smallholder farmers and the complex social and economic issues facing rural households.

This early foundation shaped his later doctoral and postdoctoral research and led him to question traditional macroeconomic ideas. Rather than seeing economic growth as just a national statistic, Dr. Balisacan focused on how policy decisions directly affect the lives of the most vulnerable.

Redefining the metrics of poverty and inequality

Over many years, Dr. Balisacan changed how researchers study poverty in the Philippines and East Asia. He helped introduce new ways to analyze poverty that go beyond simply counting poor people, focusing instead on the depth and severity of deprivation.

By exploring how income distribution, regional inequality, and farming issues connect, his research gave policymakers the solid evidence they needed to create focused and effective programs. His work on inclusive growth, modernizing agriculture, and rural development became key references for universities, development banks, and government agencies across Asia. In 2022, a special Festschrift honored his lasting impact on development economics.

Translating research into national transformation

Dr. Balisacan stands out for his unique ability to connect academic research with government leadership. In his top public service roles, especially as Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), he has used data and careful analysis to guide laws and reforms. His research has directly shaped programs for modernizing agriculture, improving market competition, and creating targeted social protection policies.

One of the biggest examples of his research-based leadership was his key role in creating AmBisyon Natin 2040, the country’s long-term development plan. Built on solid data and the hopes of citizens, this plan set out a shared vision for a fair and poverty-free society where every Filipino can live securely and comfortably.

A living testament to scholarship in service of society

Dr. Balisacan’s journey reflects SEARCA’s full-circle commitment to cultivating agricultural leaders and professionals. From a young scholar mastering agricultural economics in Los Baños to leading SEARCA as its Director, and ultimately steering national economic planning, his career illustrates the transformative power of evidence-based policymaking.

His 2026 OSSA award honors a lasting legacy. It shows that when academic rigor meets strong values and public service, research becomes more than theory—it becomes the foundation for a fairer, more prosperous nation.

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About Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA)

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) is a non-profit organization established in 1966 by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO). As SEAMEO's center of excellence in agriculture, SEARCA is mandated to provide high-quality graduate study in agriculture; promote, undertake, and coordinate research programs related to the needs and problems of the Southeast Asian region; and disseminate the findings of agricultural research and experimentation.

What Happens When You Experience Singapore Beyond the Usual Itinerary

 

 Singapore's iconic skyline and famous attractions are worth experiencing. But for travelers who prefer to follow their curiosity, some of the most memorable discoveries happen when they venture beyond the usual sightseeing checklist.

Think creative spaces that reward a closer look, heritage destinations that reveal the stories behind a neighborhood, and unexpected stops that turn a regular day out into something worth remembering. For independent travelers, Singapore isn't just a destination to see — it's a city to explore on their own terms.

Through their partnership, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) invite Filipino travelers to discover more of Singapore, with experiences that go beyond the familiar and make room for personal interests, spontaneous detours, and unexpected favorites.

And with up to 20% OFF flights to Singapore with PAL, available for booking from October 26 to November 1, 2026, there's another reason to plan a getaway that follows your own curiosity.

Trade the Usual Checklist for Something Unexpected

One of the best ways to experience Singapore differently is to make room for places that offer more than a quick photo stop. Instead of moving from one landmark to the next, choose destinations that let you explore a particular interest, discover a new perspective, or simply spend time somewhere that catches your attention.

At New Bahru, an independent traveler can explore a creative lifestyle destination bringing together independent brands, retail concepts, and food experiences. It's a worthwhile addition for those who enjoy discovering places with a distinct creative character and unique local brands, rather than sticking to conventional shopping stops.

For a different kind of outing, WEAVE at Resorts World Sentosa brings together one-of-a-kind retail, dining, and destination experiences in a contemporary setting. It offers another reason to explore beyond the usual attraction itinerary, especially for travelers who enjoy pairing sightseeing with shopping and food discoveries.

These destinations aren't simply stops to tick off a list. They're opportunities to discover different sides of Singapore, guided by what interests you most.

Discover the Stories Behind the Streets

Going beyond the usual itinerary doesn't always mean finding somewhere new. Sometimes, it means looking more closely at a place you thought you already knew.

At the Chinatown Heritage Centre, travelers can explore the stories of Singapore's early residents and gain a deeper understanding of the lives that shaped the historic district. It adds context to a walk through Chinatown, turning a neighborhood visit into an opportunity to connect with the city's past.

Rather than simply photographing the area's familiar streets, take time to explore the heritage behind them. It's a reminder that the places we pass through often have stories worth discovering — if we make room to look.

Follow Your Curiosity into Unexpected Experiences

Independent travel is an opportunity to make every itinerary your own. In Singapore, familiar sightseeing can go hand in hand with playful, immersive, and unexpected discoveries that add a personal twist to your trip.

At IMBA at Gardens by the Bay, travelers can add an immersive art experience to a visit to one of Singapore's best-known destinations. For pop-culture enthusiasts, Pop Mart Cafe offers another themed stop to explore, adding a playful detour to a day spent discovering the city.

These experiences bring a different kind of variety to an itinerary. One stop might appeal to your interest in art or immersive environments, while another might be driven by a favorite character, a new concept, or simply the curiosity to try something different.

The point isn't to do everything. It's to leave enough room for the discoveries that make the trip feel personal.

Let the Experience Set the Pace

Adventure also goes beyond the attractions. Sometimes, changing your surroundings or taking a different route is enough to make the day feel new.

At Henderson Waves, Singapore's distinctive pedestrian bridge offers an opportunity to enjoy its sculptural architecture and surrounding greenery. It's a different way to experience the city — one that gives independent travelers a chance to slow down, take in their surroundings, and enjoy a break from the busier parts of the itinerary.

Build a Singapore Trip Around What You Love

The beauty of independent travel is that there's no single itinerary you have to follow. You can spend the day exploring creative spaces, move from heritage discoveries to a themed café, or balance active experiences with quieter moments in the city.

For some travelers, that might mean starting at New Bahru, discovering the stories behind Chinatown, and ending the day with a drink at Native Bar. For others, it could mean exploring WEAVE, trying an activity at Hyperdrive, or taking a detour to Pop Mart Cafe. Each route offers a different way to experience Singapore — and that's precisely the point.

Rather than trying to see everything, choose the experiences that speak to you, then leave room for something unexpected along the way.

Discover More of Singapore with PAL

Singapore offers more than a familiar list of landmarks. From creative destinations and heritage discoveries to immersive experiences and unexpected detours, the city gives independent travelers plenty of ways to make a trip their own.

Through their partnership, PAL and STB invite Filipinos to look beyond the usual itinerary and discover the experiences that make Singapore worth exploring in their own way.

With PAL, the experience begins with the journey. Its full-service offering, complemented by comfortable seats, inflight services, and signature Filipino hospitality, brings travelers closer to the discoveries waiting in Singapore. Specific amenities and services depend on the selected flight.

So go beyond the checklist. Follow your curiosity, take the detour, and discover a different side of Singapore with PAL.

Book your flights to Singapore with Philippine Airlines from October 26 to November 1, 2026, and get up to 20% OFF for travel from November 1, 2026 onwards.

Explore Singapore beyond the usual at philippineairlines.com.

About Backpack Solutions, Inc.

UNA by Backpack Solutions is a Philippine-based content studio and "un_agency" specializing in storytelling, creative strategy, and brand execution.

From Cultural Discoveries to Family Adventures: Experience Singapore in Full

 

Singapore's character is shaped by the cultures, communities, and traditions that have come together across generations. From heritage districts and historic landmarks to neighborhood food and distinctive architecture, the city offers more than places to visit—it offers stories to discover.

For travelers looking to understand Singapore beyond its skyline, the experience begins with exploring the places that preserve its heritage, tasting the flavors that reflect its cultural influences, and seeing how tradition continues to shape the city today.

Through their partnership, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) invite Filipino travelers to discover these different layers of Singapore, with experiences that bring together cultural discovery, nature, food, and contemporary attractions.

With up to 20% OFF flights to Singapore with PAL, available for booking from October 26 to November 1, 2026, there's another reason to discover the destination from a different perspective.

1. Step Into the Stories Behind Singapore’s Neighborhoods

A walk through Chinatown offers more than colorful streets and traditional storefronts. At the Chinatown Heritage Centre, visitors can explore the stories of early residents and gain a closer understanding of the people, histories, and everyday lives that helped shape the neighborhood. Beyond the heritage centre, exploring Chinatown’s streets, shops, and food spots brings its history into the present.

Singapore’s cultural influences extend across its neighborhoods, where communities, traditions, and local businesses continue to shape everyday life. 

In Little India, colorful streets, traditional shops, and Indian food offer a vibrant introduction to Indian culture. Kampong Gelam brings together Malay heritage, historic landmarks, and a contemporary creative scene, while Katong–Joo Chiat is known for its distinctive shophouses and Peranakan heritage. 

Together, these neighborhoods reveal the many layers of Singapore’s cultural identity, offering travelers a richer understanding of the city beyond its landmarks.

2. Taste the Stories Behind Singapore's Food

Food offers another way to understand Singapore's cultural influences. The city's dining scene brings together flavors and traditions shaped by different communities, making a meal an opportunity to discover more about the destination.

At Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, travelers can enjoy a comforting local favorite, while Keng Eng Kee Seafood serves up shared dishes that bring people together over Singaporean flavors. For those looking to explore the city after dark, Native Bar offers creative cocktails inspired by local ingredients and Southeast Asian flavors, adding another dimension to Singapore’s vibrant food and drink scene.

These experiences are part of what makes neighborhood food stops worthwhile: they give travelers a chance to slow down, discover local flavors, and experience the city through something people naturally come together around.

Rather than treating dining as a break between attractions, make it part of the cultural itinerary. A meal can offer a different kind of insight into Singapore—one that begins with what is served at the table and extends to the stories behind the food.

3. Discover Nature, Dinosaurs, and Imagination

Singapore’s green spaces offer more than scenic views. At Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay, visitors can explore the Jurassic World: The Experience exhibition, where prehistoric creatures bring an exciting twist to the lush indoor landscape.

For another kind of immersive adventure, IMBA at Gardens by the Bay invites visitors to step into imaginative environments that spark curiosity and wonder. Together, these experiences offer a fresh perspective on Singapore, blending nature, creativity, and discovery in unexpected ways.

After exploring, Hortus offers a chance to recharge with a meal surrounded by greenery. Its garden setting makes it a fitting stop to slow down, enjoy the surroundings, and take a break between adventures.

For something different after dark, Hopscotch serves creative cocktails inspired by local icons and Singaporean stories, adding a playful, locally inspired touch to the city’s food and drink scene.

4. See How Heritage and Contemporary Life Come Together

One of Singapore's defining qualities is the way its heritage exists alongside contemporary culture. And for travelers, this means cultural discovery doesn't have to end after visiting a heritage site. It can continue through a neighborhood walk, a meal at a local restaurant, or a closer look at how a district has developed over time.

The most rewarding itineraries leave room for both: learning about the stories that shaped Singapore and experiencing the city as it is today.

Experience Singapore in Full with PAL

From exploring the stories behind Chinatown to discovering the distinct character of Singapore's cultural neighborhoods and tasting the food that brings people together, the destination offers many ways to look beyond the familiar.

Through their partnership, PAL and STB invite Filipino travelers to discover Singapore's cultural richness alongside its nature, dining, and contemporary experiences.

With PAL, the experience begins with the journey. Its full-service offering, complemented by comfortable seats, inflight services, and signature Filipino hospitality, helps bring travelers closer to the stories and experiences waiting in Singapore. Specific services and amenities depend on the selected flight.

Discover the heritage, flavors, and experiences that make Singapore distinctive—and experience more of the destination with PAL.

Book your flights to Singapore with Philippine Airlines from October 26 to November 1, 2026, and get up to 20% OFF for travel from November 1, 2026 onwards.

Discover the Full Singapore Experience at philippineairlines.com.

About Backpack Solutions, Inc.

UNA by Backpack Solutions is a Philippine-based content studio and "un_agency" specializing in storytelling, creative strategy, and brand execution.

Keepital Plugged In at PSECE 2026

 The energy was unmistakable as industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers gathered for the 21st Philippine Semiconductor & Electronics Convention and Exhibition (PSECE) 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Organized by SEIPI, the event once again served as a premier platform for discussions, technology showcases, and collaboration across the Philippine semiconductor and electronics sector.

As a proud media partner of the event, Keepital was honored to be part of another successful edition of PSECE. The exhibition floor brought together a remarkable mix of manufacturers, suppliers, technical experts, government representatives, and business leaders, creating an environment where meaningful conversations and industry partnerships could thrive. Throughout the show, the steady flow of visitors and the quality of engagements reinforced PSECE's reputation as one of the country's most important industry gatherings.

Beyond supporting the event, Keepital also engaged directly with attendees through its walkthrough video where they interviewed various exhibitors on the show floor as well as through its continued promotion of the KeepCard. Interest in the NFC-powered digital networking solution remained strong, particularly following the launch of its online purchasing feature. Many visitors took advantage of the special expo pricing available exclusively during the event, discovering a more convenient way to share professional information, company profiles, and contact details with a simple tap.

The strong reception to KeepCard highlighted a growing demand for modern networking tools within highly technical and relationship-driven industries. Conversations throughout the exhibition extended beyond individual purchases, opening discussions on how organizations can leverage digital business cards to streamline networking and enhance professional engagement across teams.

More importantly, PSECE 2026 demonstrated the value of bringing an industry together under one roof. The event created opportunities for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation at a time when the semiconductor and electronics sectors continue to play an increasingly important role in the Philippine economy and global supply chain. The quality of attendees, depth of discussions, and breadth of solutions on display made the exhibition a valuable experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.

As another successful chapter of PSECE comes to a close, Keepital extends its appreciation to SEIPI and the organizing team for delivering an outstanding event. The company remains proud to support initiatives that strengthen industries, foster connections, and drive innovation. With the continued growth of the convention and the industry it serves, Keepital looks forward to supporting future editions of PSECE and contributing to its success in the years ahead.

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About KEEP Pte Ltd.

Keepital was established in 2013 and has now grown into Southeast Asia’s Leading Industrial B2B marketplace that facilitates connections between suppliers and buyers worldwide through our online platform. They stand out with their highly competitive pricing and offer a comprehensive range of services beyond just product listings. Their advertising options are designed for affordability and simplicity, featuring a one-time payment and low renewal fees for product and service suppliers on our online portal.