HKIAC appointed as Adjudicator Nominating Body under the Security of Payment Ordinance

The Construction Industry Security of Payment Ordinance (Cap. 652) (“SOPO”) came into full effect on 28 August 2025. The SOPO aims to facilitate the recovery of payments under construction contracts and to provide a mechanism for speedy resolution of payment disputes through adjudication proceedings.

HKIAC has been appointed as an Adjudicator Nominating Body (“ANB”) under the SOPO by the Development Bureau of the Government of the HKSAR and is authorised to perform the functions of an ANB as specified in the SOPO, including the appointment of adjudicators. HKIAC has established a qualified Panel of Adjudicators under the SOPO.

The SOPO applies to main contracts for carrying out construction work (with contract value of not less than HK$5 million), and main contracts for the supply of goods (e.g. materials and plant) or services related to the construction work (with contract value of not less than HK$0.5 million). Sub-contracts under the same supply chain of applicable main contracts will also be governed by the SOPO.

HKIAC Secretariat Welcomes New Managing Counsel and Announces Internal Promotions

The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) is delighted to announce that Jocelyn Heng will join HKIAC as Managing Counsel on 12 January 2026. 

Jocelyn is a Canadian national and a dual-qualified lawyer in Hong Kong and England & Wales. She brings over a decade of experience in international arbitration and commercial litigation to HKIAC. Jocelyn joins HKIAC from her role as Senior Associate at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, where she advised clients across diverse sectors such as cryptocurrency, financial services, telecommunications, consumer goods, and construction. She has managed arbitration cases seated in multiple jurisdictions, with notable experience handling complex cross-border disputes under HKIAC’s rules. Jocelyn is fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, and obtained her LLB degree and Postgraduate Certificate in Laws from the University of Hong Kong.

In her new role at HKIAC, she will lead the arbitration team and oversee case management, as well as develop and support initiatives to strengthen stakeholder engagement worldwide.

Jocelyn Heng said, “I am honoured to join HKIAC as Managing Counsel at a time when Hong Kong is a leading global arbitration hub. I look forward to working closely with the Secretariat team, practitioners, and users worldwide to support HKIAC's mission and contribute to its continued leadership as a premier arbitral institution.”

Neil Kaplan CBE KC SBS, Arbitrator, Arbitration Chambers, commented, “I am delighted that Jocelyn Heng is joining HKIAC as Managing Counsel. Jocelyn brings to the role considerable experience in international arbitration from her former role at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer. Along with Joanne and Kiran, she will make a formidable leadership team which I am sure will keep HKIAC at the forefront of efficiency and innovation.”

Robert Tang GBM SBS QC SC JP, Arbitrator and Mediator; former Permanent Judge of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal, said, “I welcome the appointment of Ms. Jocelyn Heng as Managing Counsel, a sure sign of HKIAC’s commitment to maintaining Hong Kong’s position as a leading International Arbitration Centre.”

Jeffrey Waincymer, Arbitrator; Professor of National University of Singapore, said, "Having had the privilege of working closely with Jocelyn, I am delighted, but by no means surprised, to see that HKIAC continues to attract the most highly personable, intelligent and efficient practitioners to its most senior positions. Congratulations to both Jocelyn and HKIAC."

In addition, HKIAC is pleased to announce two internal promotions within its Secretariat.

HKIAC appointed Xi Zhang as Head of China Relations, effective from 1 January 2026. 

Xi joined HKIAC as Chief Representative of the Beijing Representative Office in October 2024. Since joining HKIAC, she has led the successful establishment and official inauguration of HKIAC’s Beijing Representative Office. Since opening, the Beijing Representative Office has been actively involved in more than 40 events and training programmes, supporting HKIAC’s strategic initiatives and engagement efforts in Mainland China. In her new role as Head of China Relations, Xi will lead HKIAC’s activities in Mainland China and continue to strengthen collaboration between the international arbitration communities in Mainland China and globally. She will focus on deepening engagement with users and key stakeholders, enhancing service coordination and user experience, and further consolidating HKIAC’s presence and outreach across China. 

HKIAC appointed Kelly Ip as Business Development Director, effective from 1 January 2026. 

Kelly joined HKIAC as Deputy Business Development Director in April 2025, overseeing the development and execution of HKIAC’s business development and marketing strategies. During this time, she successfully delivered Hong Kong Arbitration Week 2025 and a series of initiatives to celebrate HKIAC’s 40th Anniversary. Kelly also worked closely with the team to organise events across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Drawing on her extensive experience in legal business development and marketing, Kelly will lead HKIAC’s Business Development Team and set new standards for excellence and growth at HKIAC in her new role.

Joanne Lau commented, “We are delighted to welcome Jocelyn as Managing Counsel. With her extensive international arbitration experience, gained at a leading international firm, she will be a valuable addition to HKIAC. We are equally delighted to celebrate the well-deserved promotions of Xi and Kelly. HKIAC is proud to continue attracting and nurturing exceptional talent. These appointments underscore our commitment to delivering the high quality services that HKIAC is known for, and ensuring we remain one of the most trusted dispute resolution institutions in the world.”

MIAS 2026: Powering Mobility for the Future of the Automotive Industry

The drive towards mobility starts now! Following the successful celebration of its 20th anniversary, Worldbex Services International (WSI), the organizer of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), proudly announces the return of MIAS this coming April 9 to 12, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, from 10 AM to 9 PM. Once again, the country’s premier automotive event will take center stage, bringing together leading automotive brands and placing innovation, performance, and mobility in the spotlight.

For over two decades, MIAS has continuously showcased the best of the automotive industry, underscoring its vital role in shaping modern society. Central to this progress is the industry’s unwavering commitment to mobility, constantly pushing boundaries through innovation, technology, and design. With the 2026 theme being “Powering Mobility”, MIAS honors this forward driven movement by celebrating the advancements that continue to propel the industry into the future.

Recognized as the leading automotive event in the Philippines, MIAS marked a milestone during its 20th anniversary in 2025, attracting over 170,900 visitors. The event featured more than 145 exhibitors across 33,000 sqm of exhibit space and showcased over 310 cars, trucks, and motorcycles throughout the weekend. Building on this momentum, WSI aims to elevate the MIAS experience in 2026 by delivering a larger platform, bolder showcases, and even more memorable moments for both industry stakeholders and automotive enthusiasts.

The main highlight of MIAS 2026 is the Mobility Marathon, a dynamic series of vehicle launches where participating brands will unveil their latest models and technological innovations to the public for the first time. Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience these vehicles firsthand at the Test Drive Avenue. Additional attractions include the Truck Zone, featuring trucks of all sizes; the Die-Cast Car Collection, showcasing rare and distinctive collectible die-cast models; and the Car Club Display, where passionate automotive communities from across the Philippines present their prized vehicles.

To further energize the event, MIAS will once again host signature competitions such as the MIAS Petron Custom and Classic Car Competition, in partnership with Petron, celebrating outstanding classic and customized vehicles across various categories. The event will also feature Ms. MIAS, a pageant highlighting representatives from participating automotive brands to showcase their beauty and grace.

With innovation, mobility, and passion at its core, the Manila International Auto Show is set to drive the automotive industry forward—bringing the future of mobility closer to the public than ever before. MIAS 2026 is happening from April 9 to 12, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. You can get your tickets now at https://manilaautoshow.com/

MIAS 2026 is an event organized by Worldbex Services International, and is for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.

SEC Extends Registration and Filing Fee Discounts for MSMEs

The 20% corporate registration discount is valid until 31 March, while the 50% securities registration discount runs until 30 June.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has extended the availability of discounted rates for the registration and filing fees of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The move aims to encourage more businesses to formalise their operations and access the capital market at a lower cost.

On 9 January 2026, the Commission issued SEC Memorandum Circular No. 2, Series of 2026, which effectively prolongs the incentives originally introduced in 2025.

Under the new circular, MSMEs can avail of a 20% discount on corporate registration fees until 31 March 2026.

Furthermore, the regulator has extended the 50% discount for securities registration until 30 June 2026.

This incentive also covers companies utilising streamlined registration processes, including those in power generation, real estate, agribusiness, and the hospital sector.

SEC Chairperson Francis Lim emphasised the agency’s commitment to the sector.

“The SEC is entering the new year with a renewed commitment to support the expansion of MSMEs, given their crucial role in driving the country’s economic growth,” Lim stated.

He added that easing compliance costs would encourage entrepreneurs to formalise and tap into capital markets.

Since the initial implementation of these lower rates in July 2025, the SEC reports that it has granted approximately PHP 34.5 million in discounts to 15,425 MSMEs as of December 2025.

To qualify, applicants must meet the asset size criteria defined by the Magna Carta for MSMEs: up to PHP 3 million for micro, PHP 15 million for small, and PHP 100 million for medium enterprises.

Companies seeking the securities registration discount must also submit a certification of qualification and generally have a paid-up capital of PHP 25 million, with exceptions for agribusinesses.

QCMayor Joy Belmonte is keynote speaker at the Future-Proof MSME Expo 2026!

"Ang matatag na negosyo, nagsisimula sa matatag na seguridad." 

We are honored to welcome Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte as a Keynote Speaker at the Future-Proof MSME Expo 2026! 

Mayor Joy has always been a champion for our local entrepreneurs. At the Expo, she will dive deep into "Empowering MSMEs Through Cyber Resilience," sharing how local leadership and digital safety go hand-in-hand in protecting the heart of our economy.

Makinig at matuto mula sa isa sa mga pinaka-proactive na leaders sa bansa kung paano gawing "Scam-Proof" ang iyong diskarte ngayong 2026. 

🗓️ Jan 29-30, 2026 

Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria 🎟️ ADMISSION IS FREE!

Register here to catch her session live:  https://bit.ly/FutureProofMSMEExpo2026

See you there, mga Ka-negosyo! 

The Future-Proof MSME Expo 2026 is the major face-to-face mobilization event under the APAC Cybersecurity Fund (ACF) initiative. Focused on MSMEs across all sectors—from formal businesses to online sellers—this crucial Expo provides practical skills, tools, and partnerships for digital defense. The goal is to rapidly accelerate the nationwide movement, ensuring every participant leaves ready to operate as a Scam-Proof MSME.

The ACF helps micro and small businesses, nonprofits, and social enterprises strengthen their cyber resilience and stay safe online. ACF is an initiative by The Asia Foundation, in partnership with CyberPeace Institute and Global Cyber Alliance, with support from Google.org, Google's philanthropic arm. YGOAL, Inc. is one of ACF's implementing partners in the Philippines.

#FutureProofMSME2026 #MayorJoyBelmonte #QuezonCity #CyberResilience #KaNegosyo #APACCybersecurityFund #YGOAL #GoogleOrg

#todayph26

𝐁𝐔𝐊𝐀𝐒 𝐍𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐈 𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐊𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐃𝐀

Magandang balita para sa mga estudyante, guro, at iskolar! Bukas na ulit sa publiko ang Aklatang Balmaseda ng KWF. Ito ay isang espesyal na aklatan para sa pag-aaral, pananaliksik, at pagpapalalim ng kaalaman sa Filipino at iba’t ibang wika ng Pilipinas. 

Ano ang puwede ninyong maakses? 

 Mahigit 6,000 printed na koleksiyon

 Mga piling koleksiyon tulad ng Koleksiyong Balmaseda, Villanueva, Aklat ng Bayan, at  Yamang-Salin 

 Mga aklat at sanggunian sa wika, panitikan, kultura, at Filipiniana

 Higit 700 e-books na maaaring basahin nang onlayn sa library.kwf.gov.ph

Lokasyon: 2/F Gusaling Watson 1610 Jose P. Laurel Street Malacañang Complex, San Miguel, Manila 

Oras ng Serbisyo: - Onsite na bisita at pananaliksik: Lunes–Huwebes, 8:00 n.u.–5:00 n.h. – 

Onlayn na serbisyo: Lunes–Biyernes, 8:00 n.u.–5:00 n.h. 

Para sa mga katanungan, makipag-ugnayan sa library@kwf.gov.ph 

Tara na at sama-samang paunlarin ang kaalaman sa wika at kultura ng bayan!

The Film Development Council of the Philippines has been recognized as one of the recipients of the Outstanding Stakeholder Award by the Department of Education, Schools Division Office of Quezon City during the 6th Gawad Kaagapay ceremony at the VS Hotel and Convention Center.

The citation highlights the FDCP’s unwavering support and consistent partnership with the Eugenio Lopez Jr. Center for Media Arts Senior High School.

The FDCP has played a pivotal role in elevating the school’s academic landscape through advancing film education, media literacy, and capacity building for both learners and teachers.

A cornerstone of this collaboration is the work of the FDCP’s Academic Film Society (AFS), which aims to nurture the next generation of Filipino filmmakers.

The AFS spearheaded a two-day intensive “Script to Screen” masterclass, which immersed students in the technical and creative nuances of scriptwriting and visual storytelling, at the ELJ Theater last year.

The annual recognition is given to outstanding education partners who have continuously supported and contributed to the advancement of quality public education in Quezon City.

FDCP Technical Consultant for Academic Linkages Seymour Sanchez received the award together with ELJ CMA SHS Principal Romelita Tumaneng.

FDCP’s recognition reflects its active participation and strong partnership in advancing quality education and fostering a nurturing school community.

The Gawad Kaagapay serves as a vital dialogue between DepEd and its partners. Moving forward, the FDCP and DepEd are exploring new ways to support public schools under the strengthened Senior High School curriculum, ensuring that the future of Philippine cinema begins in the classroom.

BOI Investment Approvals Breach Php1.5 Trillion for Second Consecutive Year, Posting Second-Highest Level in 58-Year History

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Chairperson Cristina Roque announced that BOI has approved a total of Php1.56 trillion in investments in 2025, breaching the Php1.5 trillion mark for the second consecutive year and registering the second-highest level of investment approvals in the agency’s 58-year history. The approved projects are expected to generate 40,175 jobs nationwide across 322 projects.

 

Investment approvals in 2025 were led by the Energy sector, which recorded Php970.09 billion in approved investments, reflecting sustained momentum in power generation and related infrastructure projects. This was followed by Mass Housing with Php241.65 billion, and Transportation and Storage, which secured Php230.06 billion, highlighting continued investments in logistics, mobility, and connectivity. Completing the top five sectors were Manufacturing with Php62.16 billion and Information and Communication at Php26.56 billion, reflecting growing demand for industrial expansion and digital infrastructure.

 

Of the total approved investments, local investments accounted for Php1.41 trillion. The National Capital Region (NCR) emerged as the leading investment destination, attracting Php383.71 billion in approved investments. This was followed by the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with Php373.39 billion, and CALABARZON (Region IV-A) at Php257.83 billion, reflecting strong regional participation in large-scale and strategic projects. The Bicol Region ranked fourth with Php123.61 billion, while Central Luzon (Region III) completed the top five with Php105.13 billion in approved investments.

 

Foreign investments approved in 2025 amounted to Php149.45 billion, led by Singapore with Php80.37 billion in approved investments. The Netherlands followed with Php33.29 billion, while Thailand accounted for Php7.75 billion. The United States ranked fourth with Php6.91 billion, and Switzerland completed the top five with Php4.33 billion in approved investments.

 

Secretary Roque emphasized that maintaining investment approvals above the Php1.5 trillion level for two consecutive years reflects policy credibility and strong investor confidence.

 

“Breaching the Php1.5 trillion mark for two consecutive years and posting the second-highest investment approvals in BOI’s 58-year history highlights the Philippines’ growing competitiveness and the sustained trust of both local and foreign investors,” said Secretary Roque.

 

“These investments reinforce our commitment to building a resilient, innovation-driven economy anchored on sustainability and inclusive growth,” she added. In addition to the approval level, BOI projects play a catalytic role in industrial development as these are strategic projects that transform the Philippine economy or address social issues—covering renewable energy, physical and digital infrastructure, high-value manufacturing, modern transport services and logistics, and mass housing.

 

Looking ahead, Secretary Roque highlighted strong investment prospects in renewable energy, electric vehicle components, semiconductors and electronics, smart manufacturing, digital infrastructure, high-tech agriculture, and data center development, which are expected to anchor the country’s next phase of industrial growth. “There are a number of big-ticket projects in the BOI pipeline and that we are actively assessing even through the very last days of 2025. Unfortunately, we need more time to complete the evaluation process especially as these precisely are large-scale and very strategic projects.”

 

The BOI follows a prudent and thorough evaluation process to ensure that these projects are technically sound, compliant with regulatory requirements, and aligned with the country’s long-term development objectives.

 

“Our focus moving forward is to ensure that these investments translate into quality jobs, technology transfer, and sustainable economic growth that benefits Filipinos nationwide,” Secretary Roque said. 

DTI Launches Model Negosyo Center: A Game-Changer for Aspiring Filipino Entrepreneurs

Imagine how business started in dilapidated facilities back in the day. Now picture a sleek upgrade that makes it faster, smarter, and easier. That’s the reality beginning this year, thanks to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Yesterday, the DTI unveiled the model Negosyo Center, a flagship initiative reflective of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administration’s commitment to empowering MSMEs and digitizing government services. By prioritizing efficiency and ease of doing business, this vibrant hub is designed to listen to entrepreneur needs and provide the rapid response necessary to accelerate their growth in a modern economy.

Designed as a one-stop, high-capacity business support center, it delivers seamless services including business name registration and Barangay Micro Business Enterprise (BMBE) processing. Entrepreneurs also get advanced advisory services, specialized training, innovation support, and digital integration powered by the Tatak Pinoy and BSMED Digitalization Funds.

This launch matters hugely because micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up 99.6% of all businesses in the Philippines and create over 60% of jobs. The new center empowers them to thrive.

Yesterday’s inauguration kicks off DTI’s wave of modernization projects, rolling out upgraded Negosyo Centers across the nation. Of the roughly 1,400 centers nationwide, the agency plans to complete two per region this year.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque shared her message for investors and entrepreneurs now accessing these enhanced government services through the refurbished facility.

“The Marcos Jr. administration is here to help you as best and as aggressive as we can. We will make sure that yung mga negosyo niyo will thrive and will grow here in the DTI and in the Marcos administration. Remember, a lot of the big players started as MSMEs, so huwag tayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Let’s take advantage of what the government has to offer. If we have a dream, let’s go for the dream.” 

Ferdinand P. Jarin at Darwin P. Plaza, Wagî ng PHP100,000.00 sa KWF Gawad Julian Cruz Balmaseda 2026

NAGWAGI ng PHP100,000.00 sa Gawad Balmaseda 2026 ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino si Ferdinand P. Jarin, PhD para sa kaniyang disertasyon sa DLSU-Maynila na pinamagatang “Ang Kalyeng Walang Kamatayan: Ang Paglalandas ni Leoncio P. Deriada sa Panitikan ng Banwa at Bansa” bílang pinakamahusay na disertasyon sa taóng 2026.

Matagumpay niyang nailahad sa komprehensibong pamamaraan ang pagpapakilála ng kongkretisasyon at uswag ng panitikang rehiyonal. Tumuon ang pananaliksik na ito sa pag-iral ng panitikan ng Kanlurang Visayas sa kontemporaneong panahon. Pinatunayan niyang sa pamamagitan ng pagtatanghal ng ilang pilíng akda ni Leoncio P. Deriada, malinaw na maitatampok ang sensibilidad at konsepto ng pagkabansa. Patúloy nitóng hinahawan ang landas ng pagdurugtong at pag-aagapay ng panitikang rehiyonal at panitikang pambansa.

Samantála, nagwagi rin si Darwin P. Plaza ng PHP100,000.00 para sa kaniyang tesis masterado sa Ateneo De Naga University na pinamagatang “Gakot at Paglaban sa Kalamidad ng mga Taga-Partido Erya sa Bicol, Pilipinas” bílang pinakamahusay na tesis sa taóng 2026 ng Gawad Julian Cruz Balmaseda.

Nakatuon ang pag-aaral sa mga katutubong kaalaman sa paghahanda sa kalamidad ng mga malayò at tabing-dagat na komunidad sa Partido Erya, Bikol.

Matagumpay ang nagawang  dokumentasyon na nagpapakita ng isang malinaw na ambag sa pagpapanatili, pagpapaunlad, at pagpapahalaga ng anyo ng kultura at tradisyong sumasalamin sa pagkamalikhain at pagkamaugnayin ng mga taga-Partido sa kanilang lokal na kapaligiran. 

Malinaw na napunuan niya ang kakulangan o kawalan ng mga pag-aaral tulad ng katutubong paggagakot bílang isang katutubong estratehiyang tumutugon sa panganib ng kapaligiran. Ang saliksik ay maituturing bílang isang akademikong sulatín, mahalagang ambag ang tesis na ito sa pagtuturò ng mga asignaturang Filipino, Kasaysayan at iba pang araling saklaw ang pagpapahalaga at pagkakakilanlan.

Ang Gawad Julian Cruz Balmaseda ay isang gawad para sa pinakamahuhusay na tesis at disertasyon na isinulat gámit ang wikang Filipino para sa mga larang akademiko, lalo na sa agham pangkalikasan, agham panlipunan, at matematika. Layunin ng gawad na ito na hikayatin at palaganapin, sa pamamagitan ng sistema ng mga insentibo ang pagsusulat at publikasyon ng mga akdang orihinal at ambag para sa intelektuwalisasyon at modernisasyon ng Filipino.