Ross Flores del Rosario: The "Pambansang Blogger" Shaping Philippine Digital Media

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

 

Ross Flores del Rosario is widely recognized as the "Pambansang Blogger" of the Philippines, a title earned through his impactful work as founder of the award-winning online platform Wazzup Pilipinas. He has established himself as a key figure in the country's digital media landscape, bridging communities and amplifying Filipino voices through authentic storytelling.

 

Personal Background and Education

 

Ross holds a degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering from Mapúa Institute of Technology. Before venturing into blogging, he worked as an ICT Officer for the United Nations World Food Programme, where he gained expertise in technology and project management. He later founded an IT solutions business, offering services such as network setup, server administration, and hardware/software maintenance.

 

Career: From IT to Digital Media

 

When social media transformed how information is shared, Ross pivoted to meet evolving demands, prioritizing the management of Wazzup Pilipinas, which he launched in 2013. The platform, tagged "The National Blog of the Philippines," covers diverse topics including entertainment, lifestyle, travel, current events, and socio-political issues. It has partnered with brands, government agencies, educational institutions, and event organizers to deliver timely, reliable content to a broad audience.

 

Beyond the blog, Ross is a frequent guest on radio and TV shows, and his work has been featured in newspapers and magazines. He has also expanded Wazzup Pilipinas into a trusted digital hub that champions Filipino ingenuity, student initiatives, and advocacy programs.

 

Achievements and Recognition

 

Wazzup Pilipinas has garnered numerous accolades since its inception, starting with the Top Emerging Influential Blog Award in 2013. Other honors include titles like Top Filipino Community Blog and Most Outstanding Community Blog in Southeast Asia, validating the platform's commitment to truth, community, and editorial excellence. The site is also recognized as a credible voice in regional digital media, with partnerships that span industry expos, youth forums, and journalism conferences.

 

Personal Life

 

Ross is married to Wilma del Rosario, and in a 2014 blog post, he shared details of their wedding anniversary, celebrating their enduring relationship and the role she plays in his life and work.

 

Impact on Philippine Blogging

 

Ross has helped elevate blogging from a personal hobby to a respected form of citizen journalism in the Philippines. Wazzup Pilipinas provides a platform for emerging bloggers and influencers to share their perspectives, fostering diverse discourse and highlighting the positive aspects of Filipino culture and achievement.

Marriott International Expands Cebu Presence With Opening of Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

The hotel brings the beauty of simplicity to the island's business and leisure travelers, with modern rooms, an exclusive all-day restaurant, seamless airport connectivity, and warm Filipino hospitality.

Beyond the checklists and tourist spots, a good Cebu stay comes down to one thing: a place that just works. Travelers,whether flying in for meetings or taking a well-earned break, can look forward to Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan—a new hotel built around simplicity, comfort, and the kind of alaga Cebu is known for.

Strategically situated at the Mahi Center, Mactan Economic Zone 1, Barangay Ibo, the hotel is at the heart of Cebu’s most dynamic economic district. With Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Mactan Export Processing Zone just two to three minutes away, guests can skip the long transfers and get straight to work or rest. Downstairs, the newly opened Mahi Mall adds daily convenience, no matter if it’s a quick coffee, a meal, or last-minute errands.

Backed by Marriott International’s trusted standards and delivered with Cebuano care, the hotel blends global reliability with a unique local sense of welcome. "We are pleased to Introduce Fairfield by Marriott to Mactan, an island destination that perfectly balances business dynamism with natural paradise," said Duke Nam, Regional Vice President for Korea, Vietnam & Philippines, Marriott International. "This debut reinforces our confidence in Mactan as a key gateway in the Visayas and our commitment to expanding our portfolio in high-demand destinations across the Philippines. The hotel will be part of our award-winning Marriott Bonvoy travel program, offering members more opportunities to discover the beauty and hospitality of the islands."

Guests can expect a service that honors their necessities, all built on Fairfield’s principles of comfort and simplicity, infused with genuine Filipino warmth. The hotel features 196 well-appointed rooms—Standard Twin, Standard Queen, and Deluxe Queen—designed for both rest and productivity. Warm tones and clean, contemporary finishes set the mood, while practical comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi, ergonomic workspaces, and plush beds make it easy to wind down after meeting clients in the city or chasing the waves. But of course, everyone needs a wellness reboot, too, which is why the 24/7 fitness center is the place to be with fresh gym equipment.

Cap off or begin the day with gastronomic spreads at DAVOS, a relaxed all-day dining restaurant exclusive to the Mactan property. It serves a range of coastal flavors, from fresh local seafood to well-loved global dishes. The name is inspired by the Cebuano word dabos, which means abundant, a nod to the island’s rich fishing heritage. But for a quick hankering fix for the busy bees or with early flights, The Market, Fairfield by Marriott’s signature 24/7 grab-and-go concept, is there with plenty of bites from sandwiches to salads, pastries, beverages, and local favorites.

Apart from these amenities, Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan also makes a great venue for corporate events, personal parties, or everything in between. It has a 250sqm event area that can be divided into three smaller spaces or combined for larger gatherings, supported by modern audiovisual technology and a dedicated team to execute memorable get-togethers.

"We are thrilled to introduce Fairfield by Marriott to Mactan, where guests can experience our signature hospitality and the beauty of simplicity," said Dottie Würgler, Multi-Property General Manager of Sheraton Cebu Mactan & Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan. "Mactan is an island that blends business dynamism with natural beauty, and we've created a space that gives guests the room to move at their own pace—whether they're here to work, explore, or simply rest. From our comfortable rooms to DAVOS restaurant, celebrating local flavors, every detail is designed to make each stay effortlessly enjoyable."

Simplicity is not about the absence of things, but the presence of what truly matters, and it’s all here at Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan. No matter if you’re on a business trip or a vacation, everyone’s guaranteed an uncomplicated rest as it opens doors on December 19, 2025. Clean, uncluttered, and organized, furnished with essentials that make travel delightful.

For bookings and more information, visit Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan.

About Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace give members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

About Fairfield by Marriott

Fairfield by Marriott was founded on the principles of trusted service and warm, friendly hospitality inspired by its unique heritage as the namesake of the Marriott family retreat, the Fairfield Farm. Its contemporary, uplifting design provides an effortless experience for guests to maintain their routines while on the road. Evoking the feelings of calming simplicity, Fairfield offers thoughtfully designed guestrooms and suites that provide separate quality living, working, and sleeping areas. With over 1,360 properties in 20 countries and territories, Fairfield is now the largest brand in the Marriott International portfolio and is proud to participate in MarriottvBonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members anvextraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits, including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit Fairfield.marriott.com.

The Air-Conditioned Theft: How Malls Became the New Monuments of Corruption

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Stop the excuses. Let’s bury the tired clichés that “this is just how Filipinos are” or that “we simply love malls.” The grotesque imbalance between the towering glass cathedrals of retail and the tragic absence of parks, libraries, and public sports grounds in the Philippines is no accident. It is not a cultural quirk.

It is a symptom of a predatory system—one that is far more comfortable with profit than public welfare, and far more skilled at backroom negotiations than providing for the common good.

The Privatization of Rest

In a functioning society, the ability of a citizen to rest is considered essential infrastructure. A healthy government invests in parks where the child, the elderly, the destitute, and the wealthy can coexist. In these spaces, breathing is free. Sitting is a right. Socializing is unconditional. There is no receipt required for your existence.

But in a decaying system, leisure is privatized. The message from the state is clear: If you want to sit down, enter a mall. If you want to escape the sweltering heat, you must spend. If you want to feel "safe," you must be a customer. By surrendering public spaces to private developers, the government has effectively sold our right to the city. We have traded our town squares for food courts, and our dignity for "sale" alerts.

Corruption as an Architectural Process

This is where corruption evolves. It is no longer just a brown envelope passed under a table; it is the very process by which our cities are built.

The Public Park: It offers no kickbacks. There is no "rezoning windfall" for a politician’s pocket. It doesn't fund a campaign. There is no corporate-sponsored ribbon cutting with a multinational logo in the background.

The Mega-Mall: It offers everything.

Every mall begins with a signature. A rezoning of "underutilized" public land. Fast-tracked permits that bypass scrutiny. Environmental and traffic clearances that are deemed "manageable" with a nod and a wink. Violations that are marked "to be corrected later" but never are. On paper, it is legal. In reality, it is negotiable. And in a nation where oversight is a suggestion, "negotiable" is rarely free.

The Rhetoric of Deception

Observe the pattern of the language used to rob us. When a piece of land is reserved for public use, it is labeled "unproductive." The moment a developer eye-balls it, it becomes a "prime commercial opportunity." When the people ask for a park, the government cries "no budget." But when a mall is proposed, it is hailed as a "job generator." Let us translate that: There is no money to be made from a park by those in power. A park serves the people; a mall serves the shareholders and the officials who greenlit the project.

The Illusion of the Public Square

Let’s stop pretending that a mall is a public space. It is not. It is private property where your presence is tolerated only under strict conditions:

You must be quiet.

You must be presentable.

You must, preferably, have the intent to consume.

In the mall, protest is forbidden. Sleeping is a violation. Being "too poor" is a reason for removal. The "freedom" offered within these air-conditioned walls is conditional and guarded by private security. That is not leisure. That is social control dressed as convenience.

The Invisible Scandal

Perhaps the most tragic part of this tragedy is that we have grown used to it.

When there are no sidewalks, we say, "It’s okay, there’s a mall." * When there is no park for our children, we say, "At least there’s air-conditioning." * When the government fails to provide, we say, "Thank God for the private sector."

This is how corruption becomes invisible. It doesn’t need to be a loud scandal when the entire urban landscape is designed to replace the obligations of the state with the businesses of the elite. We have been conditioned to accept a life where every moment of joy must be purchased.

The Stolen Right to Exist

Malls, in isolation, are not the enemy. The enemy is a system that repeatedly chooses the mall over public life. A society that cannot imagine joy, rest, or dignity without spending money is a society that has already been captured.

Corruption does more than steal taxes. It steals space. It steals our right to rest and our right to exist in our own country without paying a toll. It is a quiet, deep-seated scandal—one that cools us with air-conditioning while it slowly suffocates our sense of community.

With record budget allocation, DepEd expands School-Based Feeding Program to reach more learners

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

 

MAKATI CITY, 8 January 2026 -- Backed by a record budget allocation of Php1.015-trillion for basic education, the Department of Education (DepEd) will significantly expand the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) in 2026, targeting around 4.6 million learners nationwide as part of the government’s push to address malnutrition and improve school participation. 

With the strong support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the Congress, the Department has secured Php25.7 billion for the expanded SBFP, allowing wider coverage across early grades and nutritionally at-risk learners in higher levels.  

Under the expanded program, DepEd will provide nutritious meals to about 1.52 million kindergarten learners and 1.79 million Grade 1 learners for 200 feeding days. An additional 1.18 million learners in Grades 2 to 6 who are classified as wasted or severely wasted will also receive meals for the same duration.  

“Malinaw po sa datos na hindi makakapag-aral nang maayos ang bata kung gutom siya. Kaya pinalalawak natin ang School-Based Feeding Program para mas maraming mag-aaral ang mabigyan ng sapat na nutrisyon, lalo na sa mga unang baitang at sa mga pinaka-nangangailangan,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said. “Higit sa pagbibigay ng pagkain, layunin ng programa na matulungan ang mga bata na manatili sa paaralan at maging handa sa pagkatuto araw-araw,”

For the first time, the program will also cover around 140,000 nutritionally at-risk, disadvantaged, and vulnerable learners beyond grade 6 including pregnant learners enrolled in public schools, who will receive nutritional support for 180 feeding days.

This component of the program will be implemented in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), integrating maternal and child health support.

The expanded coverage reflects the government’s renewed focus on improving learning readiness by addressing hunger and malnutrition, which continue to affect school attendance, participation, and overall academic performance, particularly among learners from disadvantaged communities.

To improve program targeting and implementation, the Department will roll out the System for Intelligent Growth and Learner Anthropometry (SIGLA), an Artificial Intelligence-enabled platform designed to streamline the collection and validation of learners’ health and nutrition data.  

Local government units may serve as implementing partners through memoranda of agreement, with DepEd encouraging on-the-ground collaboration in program delivery. In providing meals and other learner needs, the Department said preference and priority will be given to locally produced food and refreshments, or Philippine-made products, in line with the Tatak Pinoy Act (Republic Act No. 11981), supporting local producers while ensuring fresh and culturally appropriate food for learners.

Meanwhile, milk feeding under the program will be handled by the National Dairy Authority and the Philippine Carabao Center, supporting both learner nutrition and the local dairy industry.

DepEd said the expanded School-Based Feeding Program underscores the administration’s commitment to making schools not only centers of learning, but also safe and supportive spaces where learners’ basic needs are addressed.

The Price of Progress: Filipino Consumers Fight Back Against New "Green" Power Charges

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In the crosshairs of a global climate crisis and a local economic struggle, a new battle line has been drawn in the Philippine energy sector. As the nation attempts a bold pivot toward renewable energy, the very citizens meant to benefit from this transition are sounding an urgent alarm: they simply cannot afford the cost of the future. 

The Breaking Point

For the average Filipino household, electricity bills are more than just a monthly chore—they are a source of "prolonged burden" and "injustice." It is against this backdrop of high power rates that the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has greenlit the Green Energy Auction Allowance (GEA-All) charge. 

Effective this month, this new line item is designed to fund differential payments for renewable energy plants under the government’s auction program. While ERC Chairperson Francis Juan has defended the measure, consumer advocates argue it is one straw too many for the camel’s back. 

A Double Burden on the People

The GEA-All charge does not arrive in a vacuum. Consumers are already paying a Feed-in Tariff Allowance (FiT-All), a uniform charge intended to support renewable energy development. 

Bas Umali, National Coordinator for the consumer welfare group Kuryente.org, has stepped forward as the voice for the millions of affected families. His plea is simple yet desperate: Defer the charge. 

"We understand the long-term benefits of renewable energy, but right now we consumers are seeking immediate relief," Umali states. "We respectfully ask the ERC to consider deferring the implementation of this measure... in consideration of consumers who are already burdened by high electricity prices." 

The Missing Link: The Just Transition Bill

The core of the conflict lies in the way the transition is being handled. Kuryente.org argues that while the government is quick to implement new charges, it has been slower to provide the necessary legal protections for the poor. 

The organization is calling on lawmakers to stop prioritizing new fees and instead focus on the Just Transition Bill.  This critical piece of legislation is designed to:

Protect consumers from skyrocketing prices during the shift to cleaner energy. 

Ensure fairness so that the "green" revolution isn't funded solely on the backs of those who can least afford it. 

Establish transparency and good governance within the energy industry. 

The Call for Justice

As the GEA-All charge begins to appear on monthly statements, the demand for "immediate and concrete measures" to reduce costs grows louder. For Kuryente.org and the consumers they represent, the energy transition must be more than just a shift in technology—it must be a shift toward humanity and affordability. 

The Filipino people are not against a cleaner planet; they are simply asking for the right to a sustainable future that doesn't cost them their present survival. 

The Battle for the Clouds: Can We Save the Philippine Uplands?

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

High above the bustling, flat palayans of the lowlands lies the true heart of the Philippines—a misty, vertical world of emerald peaks and ancient forests. While many imagine the country as a series of plains, 65% of our land is actually mountainous, serving as the final fortress for iconic species like the Philippine Eagle and the Tamaraw.

But a silent war is being waged in the clouds. As the world’s appetite grows, its forests retreat, replaced by plumes of grey smoke that signal the advance of the plow.

The Scars of Kaingin

For generations, the traditional system of kaingin—slash-and-burn farming—has pockmarked our mountains. Forests are cut and torched to make way for rice, corn, or cassava. Once protected by their sheer inaccessibility, these peaks are now being encroached upon by unregulated agriculture.

The cost of this encroachment is staggering. According to Mariglo Rosaida Laririt of the DENR-BMB, losing these forests means losing nature’s most critical services:

Water Security: Mountains provide the clean water we drink and the irrigation that feeds the plains.

Climate Defense: These forests regulate temperature and act as a natural sponge for flood control.

Biodiversity Loss: Monocropping—planting only one crop like pineapple or coffee—strips the soil of nutrients and destroys the habitats of essential pollinators like bees and butterflies.

The Hidden Danger of Subsidies

In a shocking global revelation, United Nations agencies found that 87% of the USD 540 billion spent on agricultural subsidies are actually harmful to nature and health. In the Philippines, where subsidies averaged PHP 3.36 billion yearly between 2010 and 2015, the money often goes toward chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

While these "external inputs" aim to keep production viable, they create a "chemical romance" with deadly consequences. Fertilizer runoff turns crystal rivers brown, and pesticides indiscriminately kill the very insects needed to grow our food.

A Vision for Sustainable Summits

The tide, however, is beginning to turn. The DENR and Department of Agriculture, in partnership with UNDP-BIOFIN, are pioneering a movement to mainstream Biodiversity-friendly Agricultural Practices (BDFAPs). The goal is a radical reallocation of government funds.

Imagine a future where subsidies don't buy chemicals, but instead support:

Heirloom Grains: Native varieties like the earthy Ulikan or the black Ominio rice are uniquely marketable and found nowhere else on Earth.

Intercropping & Rotation: Moving away from monocultures to diversified ecosystems that restore soil fertility and cushion farmers against price crashes.

Next-Gen Farming: Making agriculture lucrative enough to lure the youth back from call centers to become the new guardians of the land.

The Path Forward

We have 117 million mouths to feed, but we cannot eat the mountains once they are gone. By transforming upland farms into sustainable, agroforestry-based systems, we can generate food without sacrificing the ecological integrity of our islands.

As the mist clears over the Cordilleras, the choice is clear: we can continue to slash and burn, or we can learn to grow in harmony with the heights.

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

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

 

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.

Laban Pilipinas! The Battle for Tactical Supremacy Ignites in the CrossFire: Legends Championship

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

The wait is over, and the stage is set. What began as a thunderous regional launch last December has rapidly evolved into a high-stakes esports phenomenon. As of January 2026, the CrossFire: Legends Championship (CFLC) 2025–2026 has officially entered its elite Southeast Asia (SEA) phase, shifting the battle for tactical supremacy to the regional stage.

At the heart of this storm are the Philippines’ own KDM and VF, carrying the hopes of a nation as they lead the charge against the absolute best teams from Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

The Road to Glory: A Relentless Climb

The journey to this moment has been nothing short of grueling. The path began in November 2025 with the Open Qualifiers, a massive search for talent across Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia.

National Qualifiers: The top four teams from each country advanced to face invited professional squads, battling for a dedicated prize pool of USD 24,600.

The Philippine Emergence: On December 21, in a high-tension National Qualifier round that drew over 56,000 concurrent viewers, KDM and VF rose above the competition, securing their spots as the Philippine representatives on the international stage.

The Format: Teams have survived a gauntlet of formats, ranging from high-pressure Best of One (BO1) matches to tactical Best of Three (BO3) series.

A Regional Clash of Titans

The competition has reached a fever pitch. From January 7 to February 1, 2026, the CFLC Group Stages will see ten elite teams collide. Joining the Philippine powerhouses are regional giants including:

Indonesia: EVOS and PRMX 

Thailand: eArena and FullSense 

Malaysia: TXD and O2 

Vietnam: EVO and HF 

The stakes are monumental. Beyond the prestige of becoming the first-ever CrossFire: Legends Southeast Asian Champion, teams are fighting for a share of a massive total prize pool of USD 70,000 (~PHP 3.9 Million).

The Final Countdown

The tournament is hurtling toward an explosive conclusion. After the Group Stages determine the elite few, the Semi-Finals will take place on February 7, 2026.

It all leads to the Grand Finals on February 8, 2026. In a definitive Best of Five (BO5) showdown, one team will etch their name into history as the inaugural champions of this structured, competitive regional ecosystem.

About CrossFire: Legends As the official mobile adaptation of the legendary PC title by Smilegate, CrossFire: Legends—developed by TiMi Studio Group and published by Level Infinite—reimagines high-stakes, skill-based combat for the mobile era. Utilizing the Unity engine, it delivers the original’s competitive intensity through modes like Search & Destroy and Team Deathmatch, optimized for peak performance on any device.

Don’t Miss a Beat

The eyes of Southeast Asia are watching. Will KDM or VF bring the gold back to the Philippines? Stay updated on every clutch play and explosive victory by following the official channels:

Facebook: cflesportsglobal 

TikTok: @cflesports 

Instagram: @cflesportsglb 

YouTube: cflesports 

Sheraton Manila Bay Welcomes 2026 with a Spectacular New Year’s Eve Countdown Party “Move to the Beat of 2026!”

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Manila, Philippines – Manila, Philippines – January 7, 2026 – Sheraton Manila Bay rang in the New Year with style, rhythm, and unforgettable energy at its New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, “Move to the Beat of 2026!”, held at the 7th floor Grand Ballroom on December 31. The event brought together hotel guests, partners, and Manila’s social set for a night of music, movement, and celebration in the heart of the city.

True to the spirit of connection that defines Sheraton as The World’s Gathering Place, the evening featured an electrifying live performance by Crossroad Band, elevated by a dynamic saxophonist from Apple Tree Productions, who filled the ballroom with vibrant sounds that kept guests dancing well into the night. From classic favorites to modern beats, the music set the tone for a high-energy countdown that perfectly captured the theme of movement and new beginnings.

Guiding guests through the night was Ramcy Tirona, returning as host after his memorable role in Sheraton Manila Bay’s Art in Gathering event. With his signature charm and warmth, Ramcy seamlessly brought together the evening’s highlights—from live entertainment and the festive program to the much-anticipated countdown to 2026 at the hotel’s rooftop.

 

Guests indulged in a lavish New Year’s Eve dining experience curated by Sheraton Manila Bay’s culinary team led by Executive Chef Gilbert Musngi, featuring an abundant international buffet and celebratory beverages designed to complement the night’s energetic atmosphere.

As the clock struck midnight, associates from the hotel ushered all the guests to the hotel rooftop and were handed party favors and sparkling wine. Cheers filled the rooftop as they welcomed 2026 with renewed hope, dancing, and shared joy—an embodiment of the hotel’s commitment to creating moments that bring people together.

We are grateful to our performers, partners, and guests who helped make the night truly unforgettable. We look forward to creating even more meaningful gatherings in the year ahead. For more updates on upcoming events and experiences at Sheraton Manila Bay, visit the hotel’s website or follow its official social media pages.

Social media: @SheratonManilaBay | Contact number: +63 5318 0788

Together, let’s continue to move forward—one gathering at a time.

 

Sheraton Manila Bay is a renowned hotel located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and state-of-the art facilities. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable moments, Sheraton Manila Bay is the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. To reserve or book your room accommodations go to www.sheratonmanilabay.com. Sheraton Manila Bay is conveniently located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila.

FDCP honored with Gawad Kaagapay Outstanding Stakeholder Award

 

Wazzup Pilipinas?!

 

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.