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Saturday, October 19, 2024

Wazzup Pilipinas Joins Press Conference for Miss International Australia 2024 and Miss Earth Australia 2024 at the Grand Westside Hotel


Wazzup Pilipinas, together with other select pageant media, joined the press conference for Team Australia, highlighting Selina McCloskey, Miss International Australia 2024,.... and Jessica Lane, Miss Earth Australia 2024, on October 19, 2024 at the Grand Westside Hotel which is now the biggest hotel in the Philippines with a total of 1530 rooms on its final completion. The hotel is newly opened and was inaugurated last June 22, 2024 by no less than President Ferdinand "BongBong" Marcos Jr as guest of honor.



In a grand celebration of beauty, culture, and advocacy, Wazzup Pilipinas, together with select pageant media, was privileged to join the press conference for Team Australia on October 19, 2024, at the newly opened Grand Westside Hotel in Manila. This star-studded event was a spotlight moment for two of Australia’s most prominent beauty queens, Selina McCloskey, Miss International Australia 2024, and Jessica Lane, Miss Earth Australia 2024.

Both queens took center stage, showcasing not only their stunning beauty but also their passion for meaningful causes. As they prepare to represent Australia on the global stage, McCloskey and Lane shared their visions, advocacy platforms, and excitement for their respective international pageants. The atmosphere at the press conference was electric, with both queens radiating confidence and charm while answering questions from the media, engaging in meaningful conversations about sustainability, empowerment, and international diplomacy through beauty pageants.








A New Landmark: The Grand Westside Hotel

The choice of venue for this monumental press conference was nothing short of spectacular. The Grand Westside Hotel, which now holds the title of the biggest hotel in the Philippines, added a layer of luxury and grandeur to the event. Situated at the heart of the bustling Metro, this hotel, boasting a total of 1,530 rooms upon its final completion, has become a beacon of Philippine hospitality. It offers guests unparalleled experiences, combining modern amenities with world-class service.

The Grand Westside Hotel was officially inaugurated on June 22, 2024, with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as the guest of honor. His presence during the hotel's launch signified the government's commitment to elevating the Philippines’ tourism and hospitality industries, with the Grand Westside Hotel positioned as a key player in attracting both local and international guests.

With a hotel this size, it’s easy to see why it was chosen to host a press event of such magnitude. The sprawling venue was the perfect backdrop to the glitz and glamour of the pageant world, as it embodies the essence of sophistication and opulence.


The Stars of the Night: Miss International and Miss Earth Australia 2024

The evening’s focus remained on Selina McCloskey and Jessica Lane, two women who have risen through the ranks to become Australia’s most inspiring beauty queens of the year.



Selina McCloskey, representing Australia in the Miss International 2024 competition, is more than just a face of beauty. Known for her advocacy on global education, McCloskey has been using her platform to promote accessible and equitable education for underprivileged communities. Her vision is to leverage the Miss International stage to connect countries and foster goodwill through educational initiatives. During the press conference, she expressed her excitement about competing in Japan and how she hopes to bring home the crown, not just for Australia, but for her cause as well.



Jessica Lane, crowned Miss Earth Australia 2024, carries the mantle of environmental advocacy. As a passionate advocate for climate change awareness and sustainable living, she plans to make her mark at the Miss Earth 2024 competition, which emphasizes environmental responsibility. Lane shared her plans for initiating green projects in Australia and around the world, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in combating the effects of climate change. Her passion for the environment was palpable as she spoke about her personal commitment to leading a sustainable lifestyle and encouraging others to do the same.



Australia’s Strong Representation on the World Stage

Both McCloskey and Lane represent Australia’s strong tradition of producing queens who are not only beautiful but also intelligent, passionate, and driven by purpose. Their participation in the Miss International and Miss Earth pageants is not only a testament to their personal hard work but also a reflection of Australia's dedication to nurturing leaders who are invested in causes larger than themselves.

Team Australia’s presence in the Philippines, particularly at the Grand Westside Hotel, further solidified the close ties between the two nations. Australia has consistently been a strong contender in international pageants, and with queens like McCloskey and Lane, the future looks incredibly promising for Team Australia.



A Promising Future for Philippine Hospitality

The Grand Westside Hotel's hosting of such a prestigious event also signals a bright future for the Philippine hospitality and events industry. With its world-class facilities and services, the hotel is set to become a major hub for international conferences, pageants, and celebrity events. Its inauguration, with the esteemed presence of President Marcos, further underlines the significance of this development to the country’s tourism strategy.

As Wazzup Pilipinas covered the press conference, it was clear that the fusion of beauty, advocacy, and Filipino hospitality created a memorable event that left everyone inspired and excited for the global pageant stage. With queens like McCloskey and Lane leading the way, we can look forward to more pageant moments that transcend mere competition, focusing instead on creating positive change for a better world.

The press conference for Team Australia at the Grand Westside Hotel was more than just a preview of two beauty queens’ journeys to international pageants—it was a celebration of purpose-driven women, the role of advocacy in pageantry, and the growth of the Philippine tourism industry. Wazzup Pilipinas is honored to have been part of this event, shining a light on the incredible potential of global beauty queens and the venues that host them. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest updates on McCloskey and Lane’s road to their respective crowns!



KATHA Awards: Hallmark of Philippine product design excellence and innovation





Wazzup Pilipinas!?

SHOWCASING THE FINEST IN PHILIPPINE DESIGN!

Since its inception in the early 1980s, the KATHA Awards has been distinguished as the hallmark of Philippine product design excellence and innovation. This prestigious accolade has continuously pushed the boundaries of creativity, setting the stage for the Philippines as a competitive player in global design markets. The KATHA Awards recognize and celebrate the brilliance of local artisans and manufacturers, encouraging them to craft original designs for furniture, home décor and furnishings, holiday décor and gifts, and fashion accessories that appeal to both local and international audiences.

This year’s edition of the KATHA Awards spotlighted exceptional pieces that reflected both craftsmanship and innovation. Each winner stood out for their uniqueness, sustainability, and remarkable aesthetic, offering a glimpse into the Philippines’ creative prowess.


Major Awards


Best Product Designs by Category:


Zulu Bench by Finali
Best Product Design for Furniture

The Zulu Bench by Finali is a stunning example of how nature can inspire furniture design. The intricate, almost vine-like structure of the bench's backrest reflects the organic shapes found in nature, offering a touch of the wild with a sleek, modern finish. This bench doesn’t just provide a place to sit—it makes a bold, artistic statement.


Fauna by Azcor Lighting Systems
Best Product Design for Lamps and Lighting

Taking inspiration from the gentle folds of fauna, this lamp by Azcor Lighting Systems is a brilliant blend of form and function. The delicate design radiates an air of sophistication, while its soft lighting evokes an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. It's perfect for those looking to illuminate their spaces with artistry.


Achite Chess Board Set by Bon Ace
Best Product Design for Home Decor and Houseware

Combining playfulness with craftsmanship, Bon Ace’s Achite Chess Board Set marries design and functionality. This wooden chess set features uniquely shaped pieces that reflect Filipino artistry, making it a must-have for collectors and lovers of design who appreciate the finer details in home décor.


PISA Handbag by Bon Ace
Best Product Design for Fashion

The PISA Handbag, crafted by Bon Ace, showcases a masterful use of natural materials blended with modern design. Its sleek structure and attention to detail make it not just a fashion accessory, but a work of art. Perfect for the discerning fashionista, this handbag exudes both elegance and functionality.


Nutcracker Ornaments by P&B Valises et Compagnie
Best Product Design for Holiday Décor and Gifts

The Nutcracker Ornaments by P&B Valises are a nod to the festive spirit, capturing the whimsy of the holiday season with intricate craftsmanship. These pieces are not only perfect for spreading holiday cheer but also serve as heirloom-quality decorations that can be passed down for generations.


PAEA Table Runner by Buttons ‘N Things
Eco Design Award

The PAEA Table Runner is a celebration of sustainable design. Made with eco-friendly materials and an elegant minimalist aesthetic, Buttons ‘N Things brings sustainability into the spotlight, proving that style and environmental consciousness can go hand-in-hand.



Special Citations

Best Booth Design: P&B Valises et Compagnie

P&B Valises’ booth was a visual spectacle, drawing attention for its refined, elegant setup. The ambiance it created for showcasing its products was both inviting and sophisticated, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.


Best Sustainable Booth Design: Zarate Manila

Taking sustainability to heart, Zarate Manila’s booth impressed with its innovative use of eco-friendly materials. The booth itself was a masterpiece, designed with environmental impact in mind while maintaining an avant-garde aesthetic that stood out from the crowd.



The KATHA Awards continue to inspire and challenge Filipino designers and manufacturers to create innovative, culturally relevant designs that can stand proudly on the world stage. This year’s winners reflect the dedication and passion for craftsmanship that have long been the hallmark of Filipino artistry. As these exemplary designs captivate the local and international market, they also highlight the Philippines as a hub for creativity and ingenuity.

Congratulations to all the winners! Your brilliance is setting a new standard for Philippine design excellence, inspiring the world with your creativity and innovation.

BCI Equinox 2024: A Stellar Networking and Tech Showcase in Manila


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



On October 18, 2024, Le Pavillon Event Hall in Manila came alive with innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge technologies at the BCI Equinox 2024, a premier event for the construction and building technology industry. Running from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, this highly anticipated gathering attracted a broad spectrum of professionals, including architects, engineers, and project managers, all eager to explore the latest technological advancements in construction.


Event Highlights and Agenda


Registration and Opening:

The event kicked off at 4:00 PM with attendees eagerly registering for an evening of exploration and networking. The exhibition opened shortly after at 4:30 PM, setting the tone for what was to come: a convergence of industry leaders showcasing innovative solutions that are shaping the future of the built environment.

BCI Report:

Jelyn Valerio, Head of Sales, took the stage to present the BCI Report. Her insights provided a detailed overview of market trends, challenges, and opportunities in the construction industry. Valerio’s presentation highlighted the dynamic nature of the sector and set the stage for the technology discussions that followed.


Technology Hub Sessions

The core of the event was the series of Technology Hub sessions, featuring expert speakers from various companies, each delving into specific innovations within their domains.


Technology Hub #1:

Benoit Foujouls, Country Manager of BTICINO, was joined by Engr. Danilo Norman Dadulla, Jr., Sales Manager, Systems & Solutions at BTICINO, to present the latest advancements in electrical and digital infrastructures. Their presentation underscored BTICINO’s commitment to smart and sustainable building solutions.


Technology Hub #2:

Cyril Javan, Assistant Sales Manager at INNEWVATION, took the spotlight next. Alongside Maureen Villones, Sales and Project Development Executive, they presented cutting-edge sustainable solutions that emphasized automation systems designed to optimize both energy efficiency and user convenience.


Technology Hub #3:

Mervahn Go from James & Jones highlighted their contributions to the field of building automation, showcasing solutions that enhance the ease of managing complex building systems with a focus on smart technology.


Technology Hub #4:

The spotlight turned to Rodolfo Bernat Jr., Business Development Manager at Panasonic, along with Roel L. Bayron Jr. of the Residential Projects Team. Together, they outlined Panasonic’s cutting-edge residential technology innovations, including energy-efficient solutions designed to improve living environments.


Technology Hub #5:

Robert E. Malubay Jr. of Panasonic presented a deep dive into the company’s residential project innovations, emphasizing the role of smart technologies in enhancing home safety, efficiency, and sustainability.


Technology Hub #6:

Rattanasak S. Lizardo, Environment Coordinator and Green Buildings Head at DATEM, shared the company’s vision for a greener and more sustainable future. The focus was on the integration of environmental concerns into construction practices, a critical issue in today’s industry.


Technology Hub #7:

John Alcancia, Product Specification Manager at Aquapanel by Knauf, concluded the tech hub sessions with an engaging presentation on modern drywall solutions. He discussed how Knauf’s technologies are streamlining construction processes and improving the quality of finished projects.


Evening Networking and Entertainment

Amid the hustle of presentations and exhibitions, the evening featured refreshments and live music at 7:00 PM, providing a relaxed atmosphere for attendees to network and discuss the latest trends and products showcased at the event. The lively ambiance, paired with engaging discussions, created an environment that was both professional and enjoyable.


Conclusion and Closing Program

The event culminated with a closing program, featuring a raffle and photo opportunities for participants. BCI Equinox 2024 succeeded in not only bringing together key players in the industry but also offering valuable insights and actionable solutions for the future of construction in the Philippines and beyond.


A Glimpse into the Future

BCI Equinox Manila 2024 was more than just an exhibition; it was a dynamic platform for fostering innovation and knowledge exchange in the building and construction industry. As the Philippines continues to urbanize, events like BCI Equinox will remain pivotal in driving forward sustainable and technologically advanced construction practices.

For attendees, the event was a prime opportunity to connect with peers, explore groundbreaking technologies, and gain insights into the future of the built environment. As industry professionals look forward to future events, BCI Equinox will remain a beacon for innovation, collaboration, and progress in the world of construction.
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