Making Mindanao the Philippines’ Hottest Investment Hotspot!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

From the moment the lights dimmed and the spotlight bathed the SMX Convention Center Davao in a radiant glow, it was clear that Mindanao was on the brink of something monumental. Worldbex Services International (WSI)—the country’s leading stage for world-class expositions—had returned to Davao City, and with it came the promise of transformation. From May 8 to 11, 2025, three powerhouse expos—PHILBEX Davao, MAFBEX Davao, and TLEX Davao—united under one banner to showcase the best of construction, cuisine, and travel. Together, they marked a turning point for the region: the rise of Davao as the Philippines’ next great frontier of innovation, opportunity, and discovery.

Building Tomorrow at PHILBEX Davao 2025: Beyond Sustainnovation

Stepping into the cavernous halls of PHILBEX Davao, visitors were greeted by sweeping displays of eco-friendly building materials, drone-guided surveying demos, and full-scale smart-city models. Here, renewable bamboo composites sat side by side with self-healing concrete; solar-integrated façade panels glimmered beneath the lights. Over thirty seminars and workshops delved into topics such as green retrofitting for heritage structures, AI-driven project management, and flood-mitigating infrastructure for delta cities.

“In a time of unprecedented urban growth, sustainable design is no longer optional—it’s survival,” declared Engr. Maria Santos, a keynote speaker and head of the Philippine Green Builders Council. “PHILBEX Davao is where vision meets action.”

Attendees from across Asia, Europe, and beyond exchanged blueprints and business cards, forging partnerships that will redefine how Mindanao—and perhaps the world—builds its future.

MAFBEX Davao 2025: EATS HERE!

Just a few steps away, the scent of roasted coffee beans, smoked coconut jam, and sizzling grilled tuna beckoned visitors into the appetizing realm of MAFBEX. Over eighty exhibitors—from artisan honey producers to large-scale aquaculture farms—set up tasting stations that celebrated Mindanao’s rich agricultural heritage.

Live culinary competitions drew cheering crowds as homegrown chefs and up-and-coming food artisans battled for the coveted “Mindanao Master Chef” crown, crafting dishes that married traditional flavors with modern techniques: tuna kinilaw tacos with calamansi foam, ube-infused flatbreads, and durian crème brûlée.

Behind the scenes, representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources convened to sign memoranda of understanding, pledging logistical support and export incentives that will send Davao’s bounty to global markets.

“This region is a treasure trove of flavor—now we’re giving it the global stage it deserves,” said DTI Undersecretary Ramon Lopez.

TLEX Davao 2025: Uncover the Wonders

Beyond gastronomy lay the gateway to adventure: TLEX Davao, where forty premier travel agencies and resort partners unveiled exclusive deals on guided eco-tours, beach escapes, and heritage trails. From sunrise treks up Mount Apo to off-grid stays in the hinterlands of SOCCSKSARGEN, every booth offered a new invitation to explore.

An interactive map of Mindanao glowed on a giant LED wall, highlighting “hidden gems” like the Enchanted River of Surigao and the hidden waterfalls of Bukidnon. Tourism leaders—including Ms. Jennifer Romero of the Davao City Tourism Operations Office and Mr. Judt L. Colaljo of DOT Region XI—spoke passionately about responsible travel initiatives, community-led homestays, and cultural immersion programs that ensure tourism uplifts local people.

“We’re not just selling postcards—we’re sharing stories,” Romero reminded the audience. “Each visit plants the seeds of understanding.”

With over 12,000 visitors expected and more than 1,500 B2B transactions on the horizon, TLEX Davao signaled that Mindanao’s landscapes are ready for their global debut.

A Momentous Opening—and a Vision for Mindanao’s Future

The grand opening ceremony crackled with energy as Mr. Joseph L. Ang, Founding Chairman of WSI, stepped onto the stage to thunderous applause. In a stirring oration, he wove together the threads of architecture, agriculture, and adventure into a single tapestry of regional pride.

“These events reflect the passion, creativity, and resilience that define Mindanao,” Ang proclaimed. “We honor the culinary artistry that brings communities together, the spirit of adventure that moves us forward, and the brilliance of architecture that shapes the way we live.”

Alongside Ang were other luminaries: DTI Undersecretary Lopez; DA Assistant Secretary for Mindanao Programs Clara Villanueva; BFAR Regional Director Carlos Manalo; and representatives from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, whose presence underscored Mindanao’s bright, peaceful future.

Powering Growth: A Message from the Wazzup Pilipinas Founder

At the heart of this grand convergence stands Ross Flores Del Rosario, the Wazzup Pilipinas founder whose online journalism platform has tirelessly championed Mindanao’s potential. In an exclusive interview, Del Rosario reflected on WSI’s 25% jump in exhibitors this year.

“Growth doesn’t happen by chance,” he observed. “It takes visionaries, advocates, and storytellers working together. WSI’s return to Davao is our chance to amplify every success story—every innovative project, every budding entrepreneur, every hidden paradise. We’re not just reporting history; we’re helping to write it.”

The Road Ahead

As the Davao Trio Events continue through May 11, 2025, they promise to leave a lasting imprint: new contracts signed, export deals struck, eco-trails mapped, and thousands of minds awakened to the boundless promise of Mindanao. For business leaders, farmers, chefs, architects, and travelers alike, this is more than an expo—it is the dawn of a new era.

Davao is on the map. Mindanao is ready. And the world is watching.

For inquiries and partnership opportunities, please contact (02) 8656-9639 or email inquire@worldbexevents.com. Visit www.worldbexevents.com for full details.

The Manalo Phenomenon: When Your Surname Becomes Synonymous With the Crown

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the world of pageantry, where destiny twirls in glittering gowns and speaks through eloquent advocacies, one name has become a force too powerful to ignore—Manalo.

With the recent crowning of Ahtisa Manalo as Miss Universe Philippines 2025, the legacy has evolved from a curious coincidence to a jaw-dropping dynasty. And the message to future hopefuls is suddenly clear: If your last name is Manalo, you may already be halfway to the crown.

Three Queens. One Surname. Endless Victories.

It all began with Bianca Manalo, who first etched the name in national consciousness when she won Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2009. Elegant, poised, and effortlessly charming, Bianca was a trailblazer. She wasn’t just a beauty queen—she was the foundation of what would soon be known as the Manalo Era.

Fast forward to Chelsea Manalo, who made history in 2024 as the first morena Miss Universe Philippines to be crowned, sparking a national conversation on inclusivity, beauty standards, and the long-overdue celebration of diverse Filipina features. Chelsea wasn’t just a queen—she was a revolution.

And now, the crowning of Ahtisa Manalo as Miss Universe Philippines 2025 has sent the pageant world into full frenzy. Having previously earned international acclaim as Miss International 2018 1st Runner-Up, Ahtisa's triumphant return to the spotlight isn’t just impressive—it’s historic. She’s now the third Manalo to claim a top-tier national title, solidifying the surname as pageantry’s most powerful legacy.

The Name That Means “To Win”

In the Filipino language, Manalo literally means “to win.” That’s no metaphor—it’s a prophecy.

And true enough, the Manalos have been winning, not just crowns but the hearts of a nation. The surname, once simply common, now glimmers with prestige and expectation. It’s the name every pageant fan is watching, the name every aspiring beauty queen wishes they had.

Social media, naturally, has exploded with reactions:

“Forget training camps—just change your last name to Manalo.”

“Plot twist: The next Miss Universe must be a Manalo.”

“Universe, take the hint. Crown a Manalo already!”

More Than Just a Name

But let’s get real. The crown doesn’t fall on your head just because of your surname. Bianca, Chelsea, and Ahtisa earned their thrones through substance, story, and soul.

Bianca exuded charm and classic Filipina elegance.

Chelsea broke boundaries and elevated the conversation on skin color and representation.

Ahtisa displayed resilience, intellect, and a refined global queen aura.

They won not because they were Manalo—but because they embodied what it meant to win.

A Dynasty in the Making?

With three queens in the span of just over a decade—and back-to-back victories in 2024 and 2025—the Manalo lineage is no longer just a pageant footnote. It’s a living, thriving dynasty. And the question on everyone’s mind now is: Who's the next Manalo?

In a country where beauty queens are hailed like royalty, the Manalo name is now pageantry's equivalent of a royal bloodline.

Final Thoughts

What was once a surname is now a symbol—of victory, grace, advocacy, and change. The Manalo queens have not only conquered crowns; they’ve redefined what it means to represent the Filipina on the global stage.

So, to next year’s pageant aspirants: train hard, walk tall, speak with heart. But if your birth certificate happens to say Manalo, you might already have the universe conspiring in your favor.

Because in this era of beauty queens, to be a Manalo is to be destined for greatness.

SM Supermalls Champions Local Entrepreneurship at SM Dagupan's Bangus Festival

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Bangus Festival in Dagupan, known as the Milkfish Capital of the Philippines, was a celebration of the city's rich culture and hardworking people. SM Center Dagupan took the festival to the next level with its Bangus Festival Food Fiesta and up-to-70% summer sale, proudly showcasing local entrepreneurship through the SM for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) program.

A Feast for the Senses

From April 25 to 30, SM shoppers and festival-goers enjoyed a culinary journey with flavorful bangus-inspired delicacies, cultural exhibits, and handcrafted local products. The event highlighted the importance of MSMEs in regional growth, proving that when local businesses thrive, communities flourish.

Empowering Local Businesses

SM Supermalls' Assistant Vice President for MSMEs, Royce Cabunag, and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) representatives launched the Bangus Festival Food Fiesta, emphasizing the role of entrepreneurship in community development. The event featured MSMEs proudly displaying their finest bangus products, showcasing the best of local offerings.

A Commitment to Community Growth

"By spotlighting our MSMEs, we're helping bring their passion and products to a wider audience," shared Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. The SM for MSMEs initiative is a cornerstone of SM Supermalls' advocacy to uplift small businesses across the country.

Shopping and Savings

The Bangus Festival Sale offered up to 70% off on summer finds, making it a perfect blend of shopping, savings, and celebration. SM Supermalls continues to empower local talents and traditions, ensuring that Filipino pride and enterprise go hand-in-hand.

Join the Thriving Marketplace

SM Supermalls is dedicated to helping Filipino entrepreneurs succeed. Join the SM for MSMEs program and grow your business with SM Supermalls today! Visit (link unavailable) to download your MSME application or email us at customercare@smsupermalls.com with your most innovative product and preferred location.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls, owned by SM Prime Holdings, is the leading mall developer and operator in the Philippines. With a commitment to empowering MSMEs, SM Supermalls is dedicated to helping local businesses thrive across 80+ malls nationwide.