Miss Universe Philippines 2024 presents 55 candidates

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Feb 19, 2024 07:39 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The winner of MUPh 2024 will succeed incumbent queen Michelle Marquez-Dee and represent the country in the 73rd edition of Miss Universe in Mexico City.

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The 55 official candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2024

A record 55 beautiful ladies from different parts of the country were presented as official delegates of Miss Universe Philippines 2024 at the Grand Ballroom of Hilton Manila on Sunday, Feb 18. The number represents a 30 percent increase from last year's contestants, who totaled 38.

Previous winners of international pageants walked alongside hopeful, new faces in what pageant watchers described this early as "bardagulan" or "bloodbath" because of the expected tight race for the crown.

Dia Mate, the current girlfriend of rocker Juan Karlos Labajo, is competing in MUPH 2024 as Miss Cavite

The winner of MUPh 2024 will succeed incumbent queen Michelle Marquez-Dee and represent the country in the 73rd edition of Miss Universe in Mexico City.

This year's MUPH has a couple of firsts in its history. One is the scrapping of the age limit to reflect the decision of the parent Miss Universe Organization. 

National athlete Alexie Mae Brooks is Miss Iloilo

This allowed those 29 years old and above to compete. Second is selecting the candidates through the Accredited Partners Program of the respective localities instead of the previous application and screening process. National Director Shamcey Supsup-Lee remarked that the new system hopes to "even the playing field and provide women in the provinces with an equal opportunity."

The youngest candidates in MUPH 2024 are 18 years old, while the oldest is 39. Ten delegates represent several Filipino communities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. 

Justine Tarah Marie Valencia is a cum laude graduate from the University of Baguio

Five of the beauties have placed in pageants abroad, namely Miss International 2018 first runner-up Ahtisa Manalo, Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2022 Alexandra Mae Rosales, Miss Tourism International 2019 Cyrille Payumo, Miss Intercontinental 2014 second runner-up Kris Tiffany Janson and Miss Intercontinental 2015 first runner-up Christi McGarry. 

Ahtisa Manalo (Portrait images of candidates by Noli Berioso of OPMB Worldwide)

The complete list of MUPH delegates is as follows:

1. Elaine Bernales (Albay)

2. Joanna Marie Thornley (Angeles)

3. Kymberlee Street (Australia)

4. Yvonne Catamco (Bacolod)

5. Victoria Velasquez Vincent (Bacoor)

6. Justine Tarah Valencia (Baguio)

7. Juvel Ducay (Bantayan Island)

8. Mariztella Ilagan Lat  (Batangas)

9. Bianca Gaviola (Bohol)

10. Natasha Jane Bajuyo (Bukidnon)

11. Chelsea Manalo (Bulacan)

12. Daniella Villar (Cabanatuan)

13. Lynn Eirene Lomongo (Cagayan De Oro)

14. Stacey Gabriel (Cainta)

15. Rethiana Rosa (Camiguin)

16. Dia Mate (Cavite)

17. Kris Tiffany Janson (Cebu)

18. Maria Isabel Pelayo (Davao City)

19. Joanna Puyod Yulo (Davao Region)

20. Matea Mahal Smith (Florida)

21. Patricia Bianca Tapia (Hawaii

22. Alexie Brooks (Iloilo)

23. Natasha Jung (Kananga)

24. Alexandra Mae Rosales (Laguna)

25. Angel Rose Tambal (Leyte)

26. Rikki Mae dela Peña (Lucban)

27. Victoria Leslie Ingram (Mandaue)

28. Ysabel Macuja (Manila)

29. Elle Hollman (Mariveles)

30. Mary Yasol (Miami)

31. Mary Rose Guiral (Naic)

32. Kayla Jean Carter (Northern California)

33. Maica Cabling Martinez (Nueva Ecija)

34. Zoleil Mellane Taño (Occidental Mindoro)

35. Hershey Mhae Senit (Pagadian City)

36. Raven Doctor (Palawan)

37. Cyrille Payumo (Pampanga)

38. Grace Jineah Chua Lumague (Pangasinan)

39. Selena Alexis Antonio Reyes (Pasig)

40. Lorraine Ojimba (Quezon City)

41. Ma. Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon Province)

42. Stephanie Faye Gerona (Quirino)

43. Eunice D. Deza (San Pablo, Laguna)

44. Joshell de Ocampo (Siargao)

45. Janet Lyn Hammond (Southern California)

46. Jenina Lui (Sydney)

47. Tamara Ocier (Tacloban)

48. Christi Lynn McGarry (Taguig)

49. Mary Josephine Paaske (Talisay City)

50. Kim Irish Placibe (Toledo City)

51. Zhyra Mae Cabalza (Tuguegarao)

52. Christina dela Cruz Chalk (United Kingdom)

53. Denise Nicole Mababangloob Yujuico (Virginia)

54. Kiara Landon (Washington)

55. Anita Rose Gomez (Zambales)

Alexandra Mae Rosales

The event at Hilton Manila also saw the crowning and appointment of The Miss Philippines beauties to their respective international competitions, namely: Alethea Ambrosio (Miss Supranational Philippines 2024),  Blessa Figueroa (Miss Asia Pacific International Philippines 2024), Isabelle De Los Santos (Miss Aura International Philippines 2024), Chantal Elise Schmidt (Miss Eco International Philippines 2024) and Hanna Uyan (Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2024).

Anne Curtis posts topless snap to celebrate 39th b-day

BY NEIL RAMOS

Feb 19, 2024 12:10 PM

  

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Anne Curtis turned 39 on Saturday, Feb 17.

She celebrated this by posting several hot photos as taken by BJ Pascual on social media.

"Birthday ko? Barefaced birthday," she wrote as caption.

 One of the photos is a close-up shot of her face. 

Another photo has the actress-TV host pairing a black leather jacket with a revealing bikini.

For full measure, Anne included a topless shot of her in the series. 

She then thanked everyone who sent her well wishes.

Several celebrities were quick to comment. 

Chie Filomeno wrote, “Happy birthday Dyosa."

Zeinab Harake remarked, "Happy birthday beautiful Anne." 

"Happy birthday, beautiful," said Sarah Lahbati.

Yellow Room Music announces new music artists to watch in 2024

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Feb 17, 2024 03:31 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Each artist brings their unique style into the spotlight, promising to make an impact in the music industry.

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In 2023, the local music scene witnessed an influx of incredible music and promising artists. Some of these talented new musicians started performing at small venues. They gradually made their way up to huge festivals and arenas, providing a glimpse into Filipino music's future.

Looking ahead to 2024, we can expect the emergence of a new generation of talented artists as Yellow Room Music - led by Monty Macalino (Mayonnaise), one of the most renowned musicians in the Filipino music industry - announces the signing of new artists from various genres. Each artist brings their unique style into the spotlight, promising to make an impact in the music industry. 

“Sobrang ganda ng music industry ngayon, sobrang lawak na ng landscape. Napaka swerte ng panahon ngayon because of the digital streaming. Pwede kang kumita sa maraming social avenues at marami na di-discover lalo na mga local acts, nagkakaroon na ng direct collaboration with foreign artists. Now is the time to take advantage of that availability and possibility,” Monty Macalino shared.

Yellow Room Music Philippines was established in 2013 as an independent music label by the Filipino rock band Mayonnaise. After working with bigger labels for over a decade, the band released their music independently. In 2021, the label rebranded and changed its name to YR Music. The new name was chosen to highlight exceptional talents in the music industry and expand its roster of artists.

“For Yellow Room Music in 2024, we’re definitely releasing more materials for up and coming artists as well as mga artists na meron nang pangalan na ma-solidify pa sa industriya,” Macalino added.

Be on the lookout for these local musicians, ranging from well-known names such as Sud, Autotelic, and Fiona to promising newcomers like Ultraviolet, NaÏV, and Tamara. They are all set to progress significantly in the music industry this year. Step inside their thought processes, then explore Yellow Room Music’s new roster of talents, as each story has its own sound.

Autotelic 

Autotelic

Autotelic is a popular pop-rock band that has cemented its standing in the local music scene. The band debuted in 2016 with the release of the "Papunta 'Pabalik'" album under MCA Music, which eventually received a platinum record certification. This success led to the release of their 5-track EP "Takipsilim" in 2018. Both albums received accolades from Awit Awards and Star Awards for Music. In June 2021, Autotelic released their latest single, entitled "Iwan."

The band was formed in 2012 and consists of Josh Villena (guitars/vocals), Neil Tin (guitar), EJ Edralin (synth), Timothy “Pabs” Vargas (bass), and Gep Macadaeg (drums). Autotelic has become one of the most decorated outfits in the age of social and streaming, replete with citations from mainstream channels (Awit, Myx, Jam 88.3), independent critics (Vandals on the Wall), and even brands (Jack Daniel’s).

Sud

Sud

When one of the tracks from Sud's debut album in 2016, “Sila," their only Tagalog song at the time, penetrated the mainstream audience – it was one of the first local indie artists to do so. The five-piece act from Metro Manila has released music with genres ranging from alternative soul, alt-rock,

indie pop, and alt-pop/ballad. Other hits include “Dumadaloy” (2021), “Baliw” (2019), and ”Di Makatulog” (2017). The band’s current lineup consists of Sud Ballecer (vocals, guitar), Kohl Aguilar (keyboard), Carlos de la Fuente (saxophone), and Raisa Racelis (bass).

Fiona

Fiona

Fiona's musical prowess was showcased when they emerged as the overall champion of Sky Cable’s Bikes Boards Bands in 2013, proving their ability to deliver exceptional live performances.

Fast forward to 2024, and the band has just signed a deal with Yellow Room Music, to release their upcoming second EP - a fresh approach with the same distinctive intensity that defines the group. 

Fiona is a power-pop alternative rock band established in 2010. They've performed with notable Filipino artists and international sensations such as Love Me Butch, Dia Frampton, Tiffany Alvord, and Tanner Patrick. Their hits include “Better Together” (2016), “Panganib,” and “Charades,” paving the way for their self-titled EP album. They've also released “Haraya” in 2019 and “Goodbye” in 2022. 

Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet recently released a new song called "Paraiso" via Yellow Room Music. When asked about the inspiration behind their new single, Raina, one of the band's composers, said they wrote "Paraiso" as a reminder that we can take a break from reality and escape to our paradise whenever we need it. "As a writer who sometimes experiences an existential crisis, I wanted to share this message with others. We are all human, and taking care of ourselves is important," Rayna added.

Hailing from Las Piñas, Ultraviolet comprises Rayna Dane Dela Cruz as the lead vocalist, Emman Ramos as the guitarist, Vesper Gareza as the bassist, Ronn Balmedina as the drummer, and Marco Salvacruz as the keyboardist. The band was formed in November 2022. They describe their music as pop-funk with a touch of psychedelia. 

NaÏV

NaIV

On Feb. 23, dive into NaÏV's latest single  with Yellow Room Music, “Ikaw Lang Talaga”-- a heartfelt expression of deep love, capturing that moment when you know someone is 'the one.' As described

by the synth-pop trio, the song is a musical journey dedicated to those experiencing the early stages of love – where logic takes a back seat, and you find yourself surrendering to the overwhelming feeling of affection. “If you've ever wondered why that special someone stands out, 'Ikaw Lang Talaga' beautifully encapsulates that sentiment. Let the music speak to the unspoken emotions of love in its purest form, “ the band added.

Naiv’s music is a unique blend of synth-pop characterized by vibrant melodies and hauntingly beautiful lyrics. Based in Metro Manila, NaÏV is a band formed by three talented individuals, Mae, Gynn, and Joe, who came from different backgrounds but shared a common love for music.

Tamara

Tamara

Tamara's career took off at 18 when she won a jingle competition. There, she caught the attention of Champ Lui Pio from the famous rock band Hale. Since then, she has performed at various events and
bars, showcasing her skills as a singer and songwriter. In 2019, she debuted with the single “Ngayon,” a love song she wrote when she was 17. Tamara has collaborated with bands like Hale and Soapdish. Tamara is eager to demonstrate her musical talents whenever possible.

Pop superstar Dua Lipa releases new single 'Training Season'

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Feb 17, 2024 02:57 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Earlier this month, Dua kicked off the 66th Annual Grammy Awards with an electricmedley performanceof “Training Season,” “Dance The Night,” and “Houdini.”

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Dua Lipa fans rejoice! After teasing the new single on social media, and giving a powerful performance of it at the Grammys, the pop superstar has finally released “Training Season” – complete with a dance-inducing music video!

Earlier this month, Dua kicked off the 66th Annual Grammy Awards with an electric medley performance of “Training Season,” “Dance The Night,” and “Houdini.” She’s also set to perform at the BRIT Awards on March 2, where she’s nominated for three awards – Artist of the Year, Best Pop Act, and Song of the Year for “Dance The Night.” 

Her comeback has given listeners a taste of her distinct sound but with new-found confidence and more spunk. “Training Season” is the perfect example of this: embracing her singlehood and dating life without feeling pressured to find the ‘right’ one.

Speaking of the track, Dua shared, “I had been on a string of bad dates, and the last one was the final straw. The next morning, I arrived at the studio to Caroline [Ailin] and Tobias [Jesso Jr.] asking me how it went, and I immediately declared, ‘Training season is over.’ And like the best ‘day after’ debriefs with your mates, we had a lot of laughs, and it all quickly came together from there.”

 

 

With lyrics such as “Are you somebody who can go there? 'Cause I don't wanna have to show ya. If that ain't you, then let me know, yeah. 'Cause training season's over,” Dua sends a message to her listeners about knowing her worth. This relatable message and an electrifying dance beat guarantee another can’t-be-missed track from the singer.

“While it is obviously about that feeling when you are just absolutely done telling people – men specifically in this case – how to date you right, it is also about my training season being over and me growing with every experience. I have never felt more confident, clear, or empowered,” Dua added.

Fans have also received another treat with this release – the official “Training Season” video, which perfectly captures Dua’s sentiments. It opens with her voicemail flooded with apologetic messages and second-chance requests. As the song continues, Dua sits alone, surrounded by men vying for her attention, and the room begins spinning into chaos. It’s the perfect balance of fun, bold, and edgy.

 A highly-anticipated release

Filipino fans have eagerly awaited the release of “Training Season,” which is no surprise since the country has Dua’s largest fanbase in Asia-Pacific. The Philippines boasts aggressive streaming and fanbase growth for Dua compared to the rest of Asia. Through the years since her initial rise in 2017, the pop star's streaming volume in the country has far outpaced her streaming volume across Asia - even compared to Indonesia, which has nearly double the Philippines’ Spotify users.

Dua’s legacy in the Philippines is undeniable and was established primarily due to her success with songs such as “New Rules,” "Don't Start Now,” “Levitating,” “Dance The Night,” and “Houdini.” 

 

 

Back-to-back hits

Dua’s certified platinum sophomore album Future Nostalgia solidified her position as a critical success and top radio performer. The Grammy-nominated record was the longest-running top 10 album by a female artist on the Billboard 200 in 2021. It spawned multiple worldwide hit singles, with “Levitating” earning certified diamond status and the title of Billboard’s No. 1 Hot 100 Song of 2021.

Last November, Dua returned with the euphoric club-ready track “Houdini,” which went straight to No. 1 on the UK Airplay charts drew in over 12 million YouTube views within 24 hours, and garnered immediate praise across the board – from Rolling Stone and Billboard, who said the track is “an immediate blast,” to Pitchfork and Vogue, who called it “a pop masterclass.”

“Houdini” followed Dua’s hit song “Dance The Night” from the box office sensation Barbie, which landed on the Oscars shortlist and earned nominations at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, and the Grammys.

With “Training Season” joining the roster, Dua continues to prove that her journey as a global pop superstar is far from over.

UAAP volleyball: Angel Canino has ‘matured’ in her second year, says coach

La Salle Lady Spikers’ Angel Canino in the UAAP volleyball. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

By: Lance Agcaoili - @inquirerdotnet

MANILA, Philippines — La Salle coach Ramil De Jesus believes Angel Canino has become a more mature player in her second year with the Lady Spikers in time for their title-retention bid in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.

Canino fired 14 points built on 11 attacks and three blocks to kick off her sophomore season and jumpstart La Salle’s campaign with a rousing 25-16, 25-16, 25-18 victory over Adamson on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

De Jesus praised the reigning MVP and Season 85 Rookie of the Year for showing her maturity and leadership, following the departure of graduates Jolina Dela Cruz and Mars Alba as well as Fifi Sharma and Justine “I can see that Angel has matured when it comes to playing compared to last season when I handled her just a few months,” De Jesus said after earning his 300th win.

Canino was happy to contribute and show their preseason preparation including a training camp in Thailand but she is taking it one game at a time before thinking of defending their title.

“One game at a time. After this game, we need more work harder and work out the next obstance and challenges one by one,” said the La Salle star.

The Lady Spikers are still continuing to adjust with their current players, who are leaning on new main setter Julia Coronel and libero Lyka De Leon.

Dongallo leads UE past Ateneo in UAAP volleyball women’s opener

 Casiey Dongallo (9) and the UE Lady Warriors celebrate their win over Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

By: June Navarro - Reporter / @junavINQ

MANILA, Philippines–Casiey Dongallo has been augured as the next big thing in college volleyball.

The rookie spiker from Catmon, Cebu was good as advertised, scoring 27 points in her collegiate debut to spearhead University of East’s come-from-behind 20-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-18 victory over Ateneo on Saturday at the opener of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball.

Dongallo capped her heroics by delivering the Lady Warriors’ last three attacks, shattering the hopes of the Blue Eagles from stretching it further to the limit.

“I’m just thankful to my teammates. I cannot have 27 points without them,” said Dongallo, who compiled the most number of points for a rookie in her first UAAP game.

Kizzie Madriaga, Dongallo’s high school teammate from the California Academy, produced 16 excellent sets and libero Angelica Reyes took care of the defensive end with 22 digs.

“I was able to score those points with the help of my teammates and Kizzie. When I got nervous at the start, my teammates were there to back me up,” said the 18-year-old Dongallo.

Lyann De Guzman compiled 18 points and had 16 digs for the Blue Eagles, who lost for the first time against UE since Season 73 back in 2010.

“This is the first time in 14 years. The reason why we came to UE is to make history and this is a part of it. The rest is going to be a process, so it’s going to take a while,” said UE assistant coach Obet Vital.

The Lady Warriors won only six games the past six seasons, winning only one match each last year and in 2022.

“If we win two (this season), we’ve already matched the last two years. It’s going to be a bonus if we win three. It’s a new system that we brought to UE. We’re happy about the win, but there’s a lot of work ahead of us,” said Vital.

Dongallo, one of the most sought-after high school players before committing to UE with Grace Fernandez, Jelaica Gajero and Madriaga, bagged the MVP plum in CAL’s title-winning campaign in the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League last year.

The third set was a real nip-and-tuck affair with UE cutting itself loose from the tight contest with less effort by simply watching the Blue Eagles frustrate themselves.

Zey Pacia’s long wallop that sailed beyond the endline shattered a series of deadlocks that ended at 20.

Then, Riza Nogales’ tip created more space for the Lady Warriors before Tuku’s attempt got smothered at set point.

De Guzman actually scored the tournament’s first kill and several plays later finished off their rivals in the first set with an attack that bounced off the fingers of Dongallo before falling in.

Geezel Tsunashima’s series of strikes set the tone for Ateneo’s opening-frame victory, putting them ahead early, 8-3, before Dongallo and Madriaga made the Warriors look better.

But after Takako Fujimoto drove in the first ace of the season, 16-11, the Blue Eagles charged ahead with De Guzman taking control.

Fortunes reversed in the next set as the Lady Warriors shifted the trend in their favor by seizing the upper hand early built on the efforts of Nogales and Yesha Rojo.

Here’s what you’ll need to join the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant

 Reigning Binibining Pilipinas winners (from left) Atasha Reign Parani, Anna Valencia Lakirini, Angelica Lopez and Katrina Anne Johnson. Image: INQUIRER.net/Armin P. Adina

By: Armin P. Adina

Here's what you will need to join the 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant

Avid pageant aficionados had been brimming with anticipation as to when the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) would make its “the search is on” announcement for the 60th anniversary edition. And the wait was finally over after the organization made the call before Valentine’s Day. Now they followed it up with the list of requirements that the aspirants must meet.

Interested applicants will need to download the official application form at www.bbpilipinas.com and submit their accomplished form at the BPCI Office on the 8th floor of Aurora Tower on Gen. Malvar St. at the Araneta City in Quezon City.

The competition is open to Filipino citizens who are born in the Philippines, or have reacquired their citizenship under RA 9225. Those who have also earned natural Filipino citizenship even when they are born outside the Philippines may still join. They may or may not have resided within the Philippines.

Applicants will also need to show their high school or college diploma, present a medical certificate for both physical and mental health and well-being, and a certificate of good moral character provided by a school, church or professional organization.

Ladies also need to bring their photo set cards composed of one close-up and one full body shot. A copy of their birth certificate will also be required.

The deadline for applications is set on March 22, but no final screening schedule has been announced as of this writing.

Bb. Pilipinas is the first and longest-running national beauty pageant in the country. It has produced the country’s most well-loved international beauty queens since its establishment in 1964.

To date, the national competition has collected four wins in the Miss Universe pageant, five victories in the Miss International pageant, two crowns each from the Miss Intercontinental and Miss Globe tilts, and several more triumphs in other contests.

Last year, Bb. Pilipinas queens posted podium finishes in their respective global competitions. Nicole Borromeo was third runner-up in the Miss International pageant, while Anna Valencia Lakirini was second runner-up in the Miss Globe contest.

Angelica Lopez, who was crowned Bb. Pilipinas International during the national pageant’s 59th edition held last year, is scheduled to compete in the 62nd Miss International competition on Nov. 12.

Communication – The importance of listening

 By Klaus Döring

A good listener is someone who listens to the speaker to receive and interpret messages accurately. No one likes to communicate with a person who cares only about what they have to say. That’s why, to become a good communicator, you need to be a good listener too.

Active listening is an important part of your communication skill set because it encourages openness, honesty, and success. When you pay attention to your conversation partner, you show that person they are being heard, thus building trust and making that person feel like their words matter to you.

Listening allows us to look within ourselves and become aware of the barriers that inhibit our ability to listen effectively.” As we better understand ourselves, we are then in a better position to understand others and show authentic compassion and empathy.

Do you sometimes feel like this, my dear readers, that you want to discuss something, but the people opposite to you simply cannot listen to you? Sometimes, I would love to tell them, “first, learn to listen”!

Listening is indeed the key in effective communication. A person does not have to speak all the time to be the smartest person in the room. Lack of listening may result in frustration, disappointment, and resentment in our relationships. When we listen, we are able to create stronger emotional connections with people.

Listening is a vital element of communication and it is very much different from the human sense of human. A meaningful communication requires both a good listener and a speaker. However, the effect of a listening style may vary depending on the occasions and situations a listener is in.

However, every time you use active listening, it gets a little easier. It can help you to navigate through difficult conversations. More than that, it helps improve overall communication, builds a better understanding and ultimately leads to better relationships with family, friends and co-workers too.

Listening is an active process by which we make sense of, assess, and respond to what we hear. The listening process involves five stages: receiving, understanding, evaluating, remembering, and responding. Not only in school or at the workplace. But especially talking about the workplace: Listening helps managers to solicit feedback and proactively find out about problems before they escalate. It’s also the only way for management to get to know people as individuals and ensure that they feel genuinely valued.

Not only does listening enhance your ability to understand better and make you a better communicator, it also makes the experience of speaking to you more enjoyable to other people.

Listening and the supreme gift of wisdom belongs together. You can only become a wise person, if you know how to listen. Do you still remember the university lectures in your old student days once upon a time? Anybody can become wise, Proverbs says. Wisdom is not reserved for a brainy elite. Becoming wise requires self-discipline to study and humbly seek wisdom at every opportunity. And allow me to repeat: and, first, learn to listen.

 

Cathryn Bernardo

Kathryn Bernardo was hailed as the “Box Office Queen” of her generation for being the first and only Filipina actress who breached the ₱800-Million mark for her top-grossing movies. In 2023, Bernardo was named Outstanding Asian Star at the 18th Seoul International Drama Awards (SDA) for the TV series 2 Good 2 Be True, making her the second Filipina actress to win the award.

Manila Bulletin honors Newsmakers of the Year

BY POCH EULALIA

Feb 17, 2024 10:40 AM

  

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NEWSMAKERS — The Manila Bulletin holds its first-ever Newsmakers of the Year Award as it celebrates its 124th anniversary at the Tent City of the Manila Hotel on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. Newsmakers of the Year recognized 10 personalities representing themselves or organizations that have captured the nation’s attention and imagination with their achievements full of inspiration and motivation – Sarisuki, Magdalena Gamayo, Gilas Pilipinas, Kathryn Bernardo, Jeremy de Leon, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Expedock, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Kindred, and Tagbilaran City. Joining them are Manila Bulletin Chairman Basilio C. Yap, MB President and Vice Chairman Emil C. Yap III (second row, fifth and fourth from left) and MB Publisher Sonny Coloma (third row, fourth from left). (Noel B. Pabalate)

 

As Manila Bulletin celebrated its 124th anniversary, it took pride in presenting the first lineup of its Newsmakers of the Year awardees during a special ceremony held on Thursday, Feb. 15, at The Tent City, Manila Hotel.

“The Newsmakers are more than just their stories. They are also catalysts of change, embodiments of inspiration, and living testaments to the power of human potential,” said Manila Bulletin president Emilio C. Yap III during his opening remarks. These 10 individuals and organizations were honored for their remarkable initiatives, achievements, and success stories from the previous year. Their inspiring endeavors have empowered and captivated readers and viewers alike, both online and in print.  

• Magdalena Gamayo, a master weaver of the inabel cloth, is known for her unique weaving techniques. She was conferred with the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) award in 2012 and recognized as a National Living Treasure. Gamayo celebrated her 99th birthday on Aug. 13, 2023, making her the oldest living GAMABA awardee.

• Expedock, a game-changer in the global supply industry, is an AI-powered supply chain startup that aims to automate the international freight industry. Its founders King Alandy Dy, Rui Aguiar, Jeff Tan, and Jig Young were included in the 2023 Forbes 30 Under 30 list under the industry, manufacturing, and energy category.

• SariSuki, established by Brian Cu, Philippe Lorenzo, Bam Mejia, and Angelo Loo in 2021, is a virtual grocery store that purchases directly from farmers, enabling sustainable opportunities for community sellers. It partnered with AIR21 in 2023 to bring fresh produce from farmers in the province to community sellers in the metro.

• Jeremy De Leon, through his invention of a keychain microscope known as the Make-roscope, has provided users easy access to the microscopic world. His invention allows cameras on smartphones and tablets to magnify objects up to 400 times.The Make-roscope represented the Philippines in the international round of the 2023 James Dyson Award and was awarded as the national champion.  

• Kindred, a pioneering FemTech startup founded in 2022 by Jessica de Mesa and Abetina Valenzuela, is known for its dedication to improving women’s healthcare. It was included in the Forbes Asia 100 to Watch 2023 list. It also successfully secured $1 million in seed funding just after a year of operations.

• Kathryn Bernardo, hailed by her generation as the “Box Office Queen,” is the first and only Filipina actress to reach the ₱800 million mark for her top-grossing films. Last year, she was named Outstanding Asian Star at the 18th Seoul International Drama Awards for the TV series 2 Good 2 Be True, making her the second Filipina actress to win the award.

• Tagbilaran City, together with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, launched the Paleng-QR Ph program in January 2023. The program aims to build a nationwide digital payments ecosystem by promoting cashless QR payments in public markets and local transportation. The program’s rollout was widely accepted by merchants and transport groups in the city's Dao Public Market.

• Gilas Pilipinas, under the guidance of coach Tim Cone, helped bring a 61-year gold medal drought to an end by defeating the Jordanian team and bagging the win in men's basketball at the 19th Asian Games.

• Aboitiz Equity Ventures’ and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Plc's (CCEP) joint acquisition of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) in a $1.8 billion deal made it one of the country’s biggest corporate takeovers in 2023. 

• Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte’s efforts in transforming Quezon City into an environmental trailblazer earned her the distinction of becoming the first Filipino to be recognized as a “Champion of the Earth” by the United Nations Environment Program, the UN’s highest environmental honor.

The Manila Bulletin Newsmakers of the Year Awards was co-presented by International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), GCash, SM Development Corporation, and The Medical City. This event was also supported by its major partner SM Supermalls. Each awardee was presented with a uniquely crafted trophy made from an upcycled metal printing plate, an integral item in the newspaper printing process. The printing plate, rolled up and affixed on a wooden block, represents a medium that continues to be relevant and resilient in the digital era.