BEYOND THE TRADE FLOOR: MAFBEX Fueled by Purposeful Growth

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

For nearly 30 years, Worldbex Services International (WSI) has been a driving force in the industry, providing platforms that empower various sectors to gain visibility and showcase their companies both locally and internationally through world-class business-to-business expositions.

With a diverse portfolio spanning multiple industries and hosting sixteen (16) events, WSI continues to lead the way in mounting high-impact trade shows. Among its most prominent events is the Manila Foods and Beverages Exposition (MAFBEX), now celebrating its 19th year.

In line with its growing success, MAFBEX has extended its reach through a regional caravan in MAFBEX Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao which was rebranded to strengthen regional presence while retaining its recognizable tagline, “EAT’S HERE.” As the event prepares for its 20th year, MAFBEX is ready to reach another milestone, further solidifying its reputation as the leading and premier food and beverage trade show in the country.

MAFBEX’s Trademark Initiatives

MAFBEX milestone was made possible by the show's ability to deliver exceptional value to its exhibitors through quality initiatives such as Business Matching. This platform opens doors to new growth opportunities for local and international companies through strategic partnerships and expanded professional networks worldwide.

This initiative opens up numerous opportunities for securing business deals and introducing our local markets to international trade and potential imports. It positions MAFBEX as a vital gateway for international companies seeking access to the Philippine market, while also helping elevate local industries to become globally competitive.

MAFBEX continues to expand its exhibitor lineup each year, attracting both local and international participants. The show has welcomed companies from Poland, South Korea, Taiwan, Belarus, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia, further solidifying its reputation as a globally recognized platform in the food and beverage industry.

MAFBEX’s Social Advocacy

Worldbex Services International (WSI) remains deeply committed to its social responsibility initiatives. A testament to this is MAFBEX’s enduring partnership with the ABS-CBN Foundation, a collaboration that underscores the expo’s dedication to creating meaningful impact beyond business. Through this collaboration, the expo supports the foundation’s various programs.

Mr. Sherwin Hinlo, Head of Operations for Resource Mobilization and Donor Management for AFI, stated that “This support has greatly contributed to the implementation of our advocacies. On behalf of the ABS-CBN Foundation, we are very grateful for the generosity that Worldbex has been giving the Foundation throughout the years.” By aligning with a trusted institution, MAFBEX strengthens its role as a socially responsible event that uplifts lives while promoting industry growth.

A key highlight of MAFBEX’s commitment to social responsibility is its partnership with KAWA Pilipinas, a movement dedicated to addressing hunger through sustainable feeding programs.

By collaborating with MAFBEX, KAWA Pilipinas is able to raise awareness, engage with industry stakeholders, and expand its reach. This partnership reflects a shared mission to celebrate Filipino culinary culture while making a meaningful impact on the lives of underserved communities.

These partnerships initiated by the organization aim to contribute meaningfully to Filipino communities, not only by introducing the show but also by ensuring that these exclusive collaborations create a visible impact. Through shared experiences and opportunities presented during the exposition, communities can benefit and engage in more meaningful ways.

The Manila Foods and Beverages Exposition (MAFBEX) is set to take place from June 11 to 15, 2025, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.

To skip the long queues and ensure a seamless entry, visitors are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance through the official website, worldbexevents.com.

A Breath of Relief for Educators: Teachers Reclaim the Classroom as DepEd Slashes Paperwork Under Marcos Administration

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

For the longest time, Philippine public school teachers have juggled lesson plans with paperwork, drowning in a sea of forms that often eclipsed the heart of their profession: teaching. But a significant transformation has begun — quietly, steadily, and now unmistakably — under the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos. The Department of Education (DepEd), in a bold reform under Secretary Sonny Angara, has executed a sweeping cut in classroom documentation requirements — reducing paperwork by a remarkable 57%.

And for teachers like Mark Anthony Asis from Camarines Norte, the change is nothing short of liberating.

“Mas makakapag-focus ako sa pagtuturo at magagabayan ko nang maayos ang aking mga mag-aaral,” Asis shared. “Hindi na ako maggugugol ng maraming oras sa paggawa ng accomplishments para sa mga form na ito.”

Where once their desks were buried in documents, teachers now find space for lesson materials, feedback sheets, and even a hot cup of coffee. The burden of filling out 174 school forms has been streamlined. Under DepEd Order No. 06, s. 2025, only five (5) essential forms will remain mandatory for all teachers. The rest — 31 ancillary task forms and 39 for specific teaching-related assignments — are now conditional based on actual responsibilities as defined by DepEd Order No. 005, s. 2024.

The outcome? A monumental shift in mindset and momentum within public schools.

A New Chapter in Education

“This move is a declaration that meaningful learning and teacher well-being go hand in hand,” declared Education Secretary Sonny Angara, whose tenure has become synonymous with restoring dignity and direction to public education.

“We’re clearing the runway so teachers can fly,” Angara boldly stated.

“Binawasan natin ang pasanin ng mga guro. Binibigyan natin sila ng mas maraming oras, lakas, at puso para sa tunay na pagtuturo.”

And fly, they are beginning to.

Collaboration Over Compliance

In Iloilo City, Teacher Jenalyn Trance of Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School has noticed a distinct transformation beyond the paper cuts.

“There is an improved collaboration among teachers,” she said. “We have more time to share best practices and participate in team teaching.”

Gone are the rushed afternoons spent completing reports. In their place are group discussions on student performance, strategy sessions on modular innovations, and teacher-to-teacher coaching sessions that inspire rather than exhaust.

Professional development has also surged. With more time freed up, teachers are now re-investing in their own growth — a move that will inevitably ripple into better outcomes for students across the country.

Creativity Unleashed

In Camarines Sur, Teacher Catherine Fajardo Santa Maria of Camarines Sur National High School echoed a similar sentiment, noting a rejuvenated sense of innovation among her colleagues.

“Nagiging mas innovative at flexible kami sa approaches upang mapanatili ang epektibong pagtuturo at coaching,” she said. “Kahit mas kaunting forms na ang ginagawa, mas tumitibay ang aming pagganap sa loob ng klasrum.”

By lifting the weight of bureaucracy, DepEd has allowed creativity to breathe. Teachers are now experimenting with differentiated instruction, technology-integrated teaching, and student-centered activities — all without the specter of endless documentation.

A System Built on Trust

This reform is not merely administrative. It is symbolic. It signifies trust — that teachers, when given autonomy and time, will choose to teach better, to care deeper, and to serve more passionately.

In an education system long bogged down by red tape and rigid compliance, this development is a turning point. It brings hope that future reforms will continue to align systems with sense, and bureaucracy with empathy.

Teaching, Reclaimed

At the heart of this story are the students. For every teacher whose load has been lightened, there is a learner whose experience has been elevated. A student who receives timely feedback, more engaging lessons, and a mentor who is no longer too tired to care.

The classroom, once blurred by forms and files, is becoming visible again.

Time, once stolen by spreadsheets and reports, is returning to its rightful owner — the Filipino teacher.

And with that time comes the most powerful change of all: the chance to teach again with heart, purpose, and pride.

For more human stories behind education reforms and advocacy journalism, follow Wazzup Pilipinas and Ross Flores Del Rosario as we highlight voices reshaping the nation.

"Is Chiz Escudero Sabotaging Justice? The Nation Demands Answers!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Hey, Senate President Escudero — Yes, you, Mr. Chiz.

How long will you keep hiding behind your smoke and mirrors?

Justice delayed is justice denied — and for months now, you’ve been masterfully deploying squid tactics to avoid what the Constitution demands: the immediate commencement of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Let’s not play games. You know this as well as anyone: the Constitution is crystal clear — the Senate must act "forthwith", sa lalong madaling panahon. That means without delay. That means now. And yet, here we are, and you are the very reason the Senate remains silent.

This is not just about your political maneuvering. It's about your sworn duty — not just as a legislator, but as Senate President — to defend the rule of law. By refusing to act, you are not only denying the Filipino people the justice they are entitled to, but also denying the Vice President her constitutional right to face these allegations in court. Even she deserves her day in court — and you are the one keeping it from happening.

So I raise my voice, as every responsible citizen should:

No more excuses. No more delays.

Begin the trial. Uphold the Constitution. Honor your oath. The nation is watching. And history will remember who stood for justice — and who ran from it.