Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Philippines to Host 36th International Biology Olympiad at Ateneo de Manila University


Quezon City, Philippines — The Philippines is proud to welcome the world’s brightest young biologists to the 36th International Biology Olympiad (IBO 2025), to be held from July 20 to 27, 2025, at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City.

Organized by the Philippine Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) in partnership with Ateneo de Manila University, this prestigious global competition will gather top secondary school biology students from over 78 countries for a week-long showcase of scientific excellence, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

Event Highlights
Opening Ceremony: Sunday, July 20, 2025

Practical Exams: Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Theoretical Exams: Thursday, July 24, 2025
Closing & Awards Ceremony: Sunday, July 27, 2025

The competition will test participants on a wide range of topics, including molecular biology, genetics, anatomy, ecology, and biosystematics, through both rigorous theoretical and hands-on laboratory exams. The top-performing students will be awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, recognizing their mastery and innovative thinking in the field of biology.

"We are deeply honored to host IBO 2025," said Dr. Josette Biyo, Director of DOST-SEI. "This is not only a celebration of scientific talent but also a unique opportunity to promote international friendship and the importance of biological sciences in addressing global challenges."

This marks a significant moment for the Philippines as it strengthens its role in the global science education community. Ateneo de Manila University, a premier institution known for its commitment to research and innovation, will serve as an ideal venue for the week’s academic and cultural activities.

For more information, visit  here www.ibo2025.org.

#BiboSaIBO
#IBO2025PH
#todayph25
#NMAP2025

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

One-month old baby rescued from “online baby selling,” NACC inter-agency committee harmonizes efforts against illegal adoption, child trafficking


A one-month old baby sold for Php90,000 via Facebook was rescued in an entrapment and rescue operation conducted by the Luzon Field Unit of the Philippine National Police – Women and Child Protection Center (PNP WCPC), on Thursday, July 3, 2025 in Pasay City. 

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, who joined the covert operation, lambasted the continuing sale of babies despite the stern warning the Government had issued early on.

“To sell a child for monetary relief is an immoral, irresponsible and selfish act. A parent who thinks s/he is incapable of raising a child may easily seek support from the barangay women’s desk, or the Local Social Welfare and Development Office. Huwag na po sanang pagkakitaan at ilagay sa panganib ang bata,” lamented NACC Usec. Estrada.

To date, the PNP WCPC successfully rescued 11 children, arrested 16 perpetrators, and caused the conviction of one (1) respondent. 

As of June 16, at least 12 Facebook groups are actively facilitating “online baby selling” with at least 200,000 following.

“I appeal to Meta PH to help us stop the proliferation of Facebook groups facilitating “online baby selling” and other forms of illegal adoption.” This is no longer a matter of technicality, but a moral obligation expected from a social networking platform operating in the Philippines,” stressed Usec. Estrada.

Meanwhile, the NACC has convened its Inter-Agency on Adoption and Alternative Child Care on July 4, Friday, to “forge a coordinated, legal, and systemic response against illicit practices of illegal adoption including ‘online baby selling’.”

In a statement, NACC Usec. Estrada urged the member-agencies to “confront one of the most disturbing and fast-evolving threats to child welfare.”

“Children are being commodified on social media platforms. What was once hidden is now disturbingly” compromising a child’s rights to identity, safety, and a family,” she said.

NACC Assistant Secretary for Operations and Services Rowena M. Macalintal requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) for access to biological parents who have been put behind bars to enable the Agency to initiate the process of finding the best and most suitable alternative child care for the rescued children. 

Among the participating agencies are the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), PNP WCPC, PNP Women and Children Cybercrime Protection Unit (WCCPU), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Information and Communications Technology – Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (DICT-CICC), Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). 

PHILIPPINEXT: Connecting the World for What's Next – A Landmark Event Unveiling Tomorrow's Innovations Today

OKADA Manila, Entertainment City, New Seaside Dr, ParaƱaque, Metro Manila – The air at OKADA Manila is abuzz with anticipation as PHILIPPINEXT, a visionary promotional arm of DOST-TAPI, takes center stage! More than just a branding initiative, PHILIPPINEXT is a bold declaration, shining a spotlight on the Philippines as a burgeoning hub for intellectual property (IP) activities, fostering a vibrant landscape of innovation, creativity, and enterprise. This landmark event, dubbed "the next big stop" in the global exposition scene, is bringing together bright minds, groundbreaking ideas, and collaborative opportunities that promise to shape the future.

Attendees from across the globe – including APC TT Regional Members, Inventors and Innovators, Investors, VCs, National Government Agencies, Local Government Units, Non-Profit Organizations, International Agencies, Legislators, CSR Companies, Tech-based Startups, Universities, and Research and Development Institutions (RDIs) – are converging to explore investment-ready innovations, engage in pitching events, and witness the power of Filipino ingenuity. Beyond the intellectual exchange, PHILIPPINEXT offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Philippines' rich culture, tourism, and world-class hospitality.

Igniting Innovation and Collaboration

Day 1 – July 14, 2025: Laying the Foundation for a Sustainable Future

The inaugural day kicked off with a Registration/Networking session, setting the stage for what was to come. The Preliminaries saw the Philippine National Anthem resonate through the Grand Ballroom, followed by a ceremonial Parade of Delegates and an Introduction of PHILIPPINEXT 2025.


The morning’s highlights included a Welcome and Event Rationale by Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, Director, followed by insightful messages from Hon. Renato U. Solidum, DOST Secretary, and Ms. Preeti Soni, Head, APCTT-UNESCAP, emphasizing the global significance of the event. The Sustainability Technology PHILIPPINEXT Champions were recognized, with Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon of Pili AdheSeal Inc. taking the spotlight. The morning concluded with a Photo Opportunity, an audio-visual presentation on Why we innovate for climate?, and the much-anticipated Opening of Exhibits, showcasing cutting-edge innovations.

The afternoon session plunged into crucial discussions with the Seeing Eye to Eye Conference Sessions. The first session, "Where does IP fit into all this? Understanding the essence of IP protection in Climate Solutions," featured compelling presentations. AD CHAMULETTE GARCIA of DITTB, IPOPHL, elucidated on Empowering IP Protection: IP as a potential driver of Climate Solutions. This was followed by a deep dive into "From intellectual property to policy: A guide to Climate Change Mitigation Efforts" by EDWINA CARRIE, Country Representative, UNDP, and MR. JOHN CHARLES ALTOMONTE, Founder, Verne Solutions. The afternoon culminated with "Amplifying Innovations and Learning: The Benefits of Receiving Recognition," presented by MR. IAN DIATA, Programme Manager, James Dyson Foundation, and ENGR. JOSEPH DE LEON, Power Electronics Engineer, James Dyson Foundation.

Concurrently, a pivotal PHILIPPINEXT Media Launch 2025 dubbed as What's NEXT was held, marking a significant moment for the event. The program included Registration of Media Partners and Content Creators, Opening Remarks by Dr. F. Juanillo, Jr., PhD, Undersecretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization, DOST. Presentation of five voices of PhilippiNext- featured innovators Patrick Roland De Guzman of Marissa Turbine, Alvin Phoebe Artemis Valdez of Farmesto, Cristina Macaraig of Alerto PH, Justin Zhang of Tack EVO Finder, and Noel Gary Del Castillo of SeeYouDoc which was followed by Q&A with the media attendees. Next was an overview of Press Handouts and Resources from Mireille Vacal, Head of Media and External Engagement, then concluded with Closing Remarks by Atty Marion Ivy Decena, Director. The media launch was hosted by Karen Nicole Piccio, Miss Universe Philippines, Iloilo 2025.

Take note that throughout this media launch, the media has been widely encouraged to share the stories of the innovators highlighted at the event citing that "the media plays a key role in helping innovators bring their ideas to a wider audience".

In the heart of innovation, where untold stories of Filipino ingenuity echo, a critical truth emerges: these profound human narratives, deserving of global resonance, often remain tragically underreported. 

But not anymore.

We stand at the precipice of "What's Next," recognizing journalism as the indispensable fourth strand of the innovation ecosystem, right alongside industry, academia, and government. The media is not just a conveyor of information; it is the vital bridge where policy meets practice, capturing content that no press release or remote briefing ever could.

These aren't just innovations; they are the living, breathing stories of real people – the very next generation of Filipino brilliance. Our reporting doesn't merely inform; it elevates, highlighting the Philippines' unwavering commitment to global sustainability and helping us boldly brand our nation as a recognized leader in innovation, cultivating a truly global ecosystem of creativity.

By deepening our understanding of how knowledge and innovation thrive within digital media, we unlock clearer insights into today's dynamic knowledge economy. This is why initiatives like ICE bring together high-level stakeholders and exhibitors, forging networks and partnerships that will amplify these vital stories and propel Filipino innovation onto the world stage it so rightfully deserves.

The time for these narratives to remain unheard is over. The future of Filipino innovation demands to be seen, to be heard, and to inspire the world.

Day 2 – July 15, 2025 (Morning): Catalyzing Green Investments and Fostering Financial Partnerships

Today, the morning session will continue with the momentum with a Health Break followed by the Conference Session: Financing Climate Crisis Innovations and Technologies. This vital discussion will commence with "Catalyzing Green Investments: Financial Institution’s Approach to Supporting Climate Innovation" by Asian Development Bank, Green Climate Fund, providing crucial insights into funding climate solutions. Following this, "Probing the Public-Private Collaboration to Fund Climate Change-related Innovation" featured distinguished speakers: MR. ACHILLES VOLTAIRE ESTRADA, CPA, Senior Green Investment Officer, Global Green Growth Institute, and MR. ANGELO KAIROS T. DELA CRUZ, Executive Director, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, will explore collaborative funding models. The session will conclude with a Photo Opportunity, Awarding of Certificate of Recognition, and a Panel Discussion & Synthesis.

In a parallel and equally impactful session, FRONTIERS: Fostering Financial Partnership for Filipino Inventors will be held. The morning will begin with Registration and a Welcoming of Guests & Opening Remarks, Event Rationale. Significant milestones will be achieved with MOU Signing with PEZA and MOA Signing with LandBank, solidifying crucial partnerships for innovation. The program also includes insightful I-Tech Real Stories & IRR and a dedicated Question & Answer segment before its Closing.

What's Next? The Exciting Days Ahead!

Day 2 – July 15, 2025 (Afternoon): Power Pitches and Innovation Ecosystems

The afternoon promises a dynamic showcase of groundbreaking ideas with Power Pitch Presentations featuring innovative companies from around the world. From mobility solutions by Creatara Mobility Pvt Ltd (India) and cryogenic technologies by Cryogen Pvt Ltd (India), to holistic wellness from Dhanayu Holistic Ayurveda Wellness and Research Private Limited (India), and diverse offerings from Global Enterprises Private Limited (India). The pitches will also feature cutting-edge solutions from Hopper AI Solutions Pvt Ltd (India), diagnostic advancements from IOTA Diagnostic (India), and academic contributions from Padjadjaran University (Indonesia). Malaysian ingenuity will be represented by MIMOS Berhad (Malaysia), Singaporean innovation by Tackone (Singapore), and German expertise by Infineon (Singapore).

Simultaneously, the NEXTSTAGE Symposium on Technology Innovation & Commercialization will delve deeper into the intricacies of bringing innovations to market. Following Registration and Opening Remarks, two pivotal Paper Presentations will be held: "From Research to Market: Analyzing the Key Determinants of Technology Commercialization in Selected DOST-R&D in Development Institutes (RDIs)" by Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, Director, DOST-TAPI, and "Innovation-Based View Evaluation of Knowledge Development Project and its implication to Promote Women Technology Business Incubators in the Philippines" by Dr. M. Ann Ricci. A Roundtable Discussion will conclude this insightful symposium.

The day will culminate with a vital Networking session, followed by the highly anticipated Closing Ceremonies and Awarding, recognizing excellence with the People's Choice Award, Market Trailblazer Award, Industrial Design Award, Kallihasan Award, Young Torchbearer Award, Ilaw ng Pag-asa Award, and Special Choice Awards from Various Partners.

Day 3 – July 16, 2025: International Dialogue and Grand Finale

The penultimate day will begin with Registration before transitioning into "Seeing Eye to Eye International Dialogue". This crucial session will involve a Photo Opportunity, Panel Discussion & Synthesis, fostering global collaboration and understanding. A well-deserved Break/Networking session will follow, providing opportunities for further connection.

The event will then move towards its grand conclusion with the Closing Ceremonies, featuring the announcement of the People's Choice Awards, Power Pitch Award, and the coveted Grand Prix Award. Additionally, Special Choice Awards from Various Partners will be presented, celebrating a wide spectrum of innovation.

Day 4 – July 17, 2025: Experiencing Innovation Firsthand

The final day offers a unique opportunity for attendees to engage in a Field visit to R&D laboratories (RSVP), providing a direct experience of the innovative ecosystems being fostered in the Philippines.

Important Information for Attendees

Event Highlights: PHILIPPINEXT showcases the presentation of DOST Programs and Funded Inventions and Technologies, IP Policy, Initiatives, Technology Transfer, Diffusion and Commercialization of Technologies related to climate change, an Exhibition of International and Local Inventions/Researches, Special Project Outputs, and professional networking and collaborative opportunities. DOST-TAPI will also confer awards to recognize outstanding inventions that demonstrate strong potential to make a significant positive impact and contribute to the advancement of innovation globally.

PHILIPPINEXT is not just an event; it's a movement, connecting the world for what's next and firmly positioning the Philippines as a global leader in innovation. The future is here, and it's being forged at PHILIPPINEXT!

Thursday, July 10, 2025

The Philippines Biggest Food Show Returns this August 2025

Get ready for the most delicious event of the year!

World Food Expo (WOFEX) is back, bigger and better than ever!

From August 6 to 9, 2025, experience four days of food innovation, tastings, culinary showcases, business matching, and international networking all under one incredible event. And for the first time ever, WOFEX 2025 will be held across TWO powerhouse venues: SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center Metro Manila.

This isn't just another food expo. This is the ultimate gathering of culinary professionals, food lovers, entrepreneurs, and global innovators ready to explore, connect, and grow.

What You Can Expect at WOFEX 2025:

  • Over 1,000 exhibitors featuring food, beverage, equipment, and service suppliers

  • Two mega venues that create one unforgettable experience

  • Live demos, talks, competitions, and workshops led by top chefs and F&B experts

Whether you're in the food business, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a passionate foodie, WOFEX 2025 is where you want to be.

Don't miss your chance to be part of the largest and most influential food show in the Philippines.

Mark your calendars now: August 6–9, 2025

Stay tuned for exclusive content, and the latest updates.

See you at WOFEX Manila 2025 — where the world of food comes together!

Get your tickets NOW!

How to get tickets? Go to this link >> Buy here << 

Why register early? To avail of our special 75% discount.

Until when is the discount available? Only until July 21, 2025.

See you at WOFEX Manila on August 6-9 for the unique WOFEX experience!

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Travel Madness Expo 2025


The 12th Travel Madness Expo (TME 2025) is happening on July 11–13, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center Manila!

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, planning your first adventure, or looking for amazing travel deals, TME 2025 is your one-stop destination for everything travel!

What to Expect:

  • Exclusive airfare and tour packages
  • Big discounts from airlines, cruise lines, hotels & resorts
  • B2B networking opportunities
  • Land travel, property, insurance, and lifestyle booths
  • Travel essentials and new destinations to explore!
  • FREE ENTRANCE for BPI and Robinsons Bank credit and debit cardholders!

Just present your valid card at the BPI Registration Booth to claim your free entrance ticket.

Regular Entrance Fee: PHP 150/day

Mark your calendars!
Visit www.travelmadness.org for full event details.

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Golf Tourism AwardsIAGTO announces Americas Golf Tourism Awards winners in Alabama

IAGTO announces Americas Golf Tourism Awards winners in Alabama
Golf tourism destinations along with golf resort, golf course and hotel winners from Canada, the USA and the Caribbean’s Dominican Republic have been lauded in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Awards.

The accolades were the final tranche of 2025’s three-part Golf Tourism Awards organised by IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) and were revealed at its 16th annual North America Convention, in Birmingham, Alabama, which was attended by more than 300 delegates from around the world.

The Asia Pacific winners were announced at IAGTO’s Asia Convention and the European Awards were presented at its IEC event in Gran Canaria, leaving the American edition of the 25th IAGTO Awards to be announced at the Forum Theatre of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex in Alabama.

The awards recognise the exceptional service and experience delivered over the past year by golf courses, resorts, hotels, inbound operators and golf destinations across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Votes were cast by IAGTO's 700-plus member golf tour operators from around the world, making these accolades a true reflection of excellence as seen through the eyes of the global golf travel trade.

"IAGTO golf tour operators are responsible for 90% of all international golf tourism travel," said Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO. "These awards highlight the suppliers and destinations that have delivered the best possible experiences to their golf travelling clients over the past 12 months."

The winners for the Americas region are:

Golf Destination of the Year
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Golf Resort of the Year
BOYNE GOLF, MICHIGAN

Golf Course of the Year
PGA OCEAN’S 4, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Hotel of the Year
EDEN ROC CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Outstanding Contribution to Golf Tourism
GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL


Logo & Photos Download Links
IAGTO Awards 2025 Logo - PNG - JPG
IAGTO Awards 2025 Americas Photos - Photos for Media

About IAGTO
Established in 1997, IAGTO is the global trade organisation of the golf tourism industry with over 2400 members in 93 countries including 700+ golf tour operators in 69 countries, which are responsible for more than 90% of golf vacation packages sold worldwide. IAGTO runs annual conventions in Asia, Europe and North America in addition to the prestigious IAGTO Golf Tourism Awards.

Estrada takes center stage at HCCH Asia Pacific Week, highlights best practices on Inter-Country Adoption

(From Left to Right): Ewha Legal Science Institute Researcher So-Young An; Thailand’s  Department of Children and Youth Ministry – Inter-Country Adoption Director Kantason Methasakunwong; Republic of Korea Daejeon High Court Judge Sunmi Lee; NACC Usec. Janella Ejercito Estrada, HCCH First Secretary Laura Martinez-Mora; Moderator Kwang Hyun Suk (Emeritus President, Korea Private International Law Association, Republic of Korea); and Republic of Korea Director of Adoption System Restructure Team, Ministry of Health and Welfare Yu Ri Lee.

SEOUL, REPUBLIC OF KOREA– “Nothing we do for children is ever wasted because every child deserves love and every child matters,” National Authority for Child Care (NACC) Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada, stressed as she presented the new administrative adoption landscape in the Philippines during the HCCH Asia Pacific Week last June 25 to 28 in Seoul, South Korea.

In a presentation titled “Philippines’ Tasks, Challenges, and Good Practices in Implementing the 1993 Adoption Convention,” Usec. Estrada highlighted the innovative changes and best practices that the Philippines has undertaken upon the establishment of the NACC for streamlined programs and services on adoption and alternative child care per R.A. 11642 or the “Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act.”

Usec. Estrada stated that the NACC’s work is “rooted in shared principles on child protection, ethical practice and adherence to international standards” so as “every child in need of a family is placed with the most suitable adoptive parents guided by the child’s best interest and the highest standards of care.”

As panelist, Estrada shared some of the recent strategies and good practices in the country’s Inter-Country Adoption Program that takes pride in the preparation of comprehensive child case study report, conduct of judicious three-tiered matching process of children before they can be cleared for inter-country adoption, an established policy and legal frameworks for both domestic administrative and inter-country adoptions, strong collaboration and programs with stakeholders, the success of the Inter-Country Hosting Program, and the development of IT systems to enhance case management and streamline administrative systems and processes at the NACC.

Under the Inter-Country Adoption Program, Usec. Estrada reported that the NACC is currently working with some 27 accredited Foreign Adoption Agencies and 40 Central Authorities for the placement of our children cleared for ICA – children who are aging out, with siblings and with disabilities who can no longer be adopted domestically.  Inter-country adoption becomes their last bastion of hope in finding their forever families and that is why the NACC will continue to strengthen ICA through its initiative to transition to finalized administrative inter-country adoption.

Estrada also announced the conduct of the 18th Global Consultation on Inter-Country Adoption and Child Welfare Development in October this year in Cebu City, to be hosted by the Philippine Government through the NACC. Among the issues to be tackled include Philippine finalized administrative adoption, emerging trends and challenges, illegal adoption, “online baby selling” and efforts to curb child trafficking. 

By National Authority for Child Care (NACC)