TIEZA Honors War Heroes with Series of Events at Mt. Samat Shrine

by Info @Business | Apr. 11, 2025

April 10, 2025 Pilar, Bataan — In honor of the 83rd year of celebrating Araw ng Kagitingan, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), through the Mt. Samat Flagship Tourism Enterprise Zone (MS-FTEZ) Office, proudly presented the newly completed Underground Museum at the historic Mt. Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the viewing of the newly curated Bataan Legacy Underground Museum on April 9, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the continued preservation and revitalization of the country’s national heritage sites.

First inaugurated on April 9, 1970, by then-President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the Mt. Samat Shrine stands as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Bataan’s defenders and the nation’s continuing commitment to preserve an indispensable memory of the past. Located beneath the Shrine’s iconic Colonnade, the newly redeveloped museum has been transformed into a state-of-the-art educational and heritage site under TIEZA’s Mt. Samat Flagship Tourism Enterprise Zone (FTEZ) initiative. With the theme “The Legacy of Bataan and Its Heroes,” the museum presents a deeper, immersive narrative of World War II—from the roots of conflict to the Battle of Bataan, the Death March, and eventual liberation.

During the viewing, the role of national memory in shaping the Filipino spirit was emphasized, alongside a heartfelt tribute to veterans and their families whose courage shaped the nation’s history. A focal point of the tour was the original 1970 marker commemorating the museum’s inauguration, symbolizing the continuity of historical stewardship across generations. President Marcos Jr. was joined by distinguished officials including Department of National Defense Secretary Gilbert C. Teodoro Jr., PVAO Administrator Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu, PVAO Assistant Secretaries Restituto L. Aguilar and Domingo C. Carbonell Jr., Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III, Congressman Albert Raymond Garcia, Pilar Mayor Carlos F. Pizarro Jr., TIEZA ACOO Atty. Karen Mae G. Sarinas-Baydo, and Mt. Samat FTEZ Administrator Atty. Francis Theodore B. Initorio.

The museum now features nine interconnected exhibit themes, including Bataan as a

Battlefield, War Heroes, The Fall of Bataan, and The Heroism in Bataan. These are brought to life through modern exhibit design, virtual and augmented reality installations, holographic displays, and interactive storytelling—offering visitors a compelling 20–30-minute immersive experience. In his remarks, Atty. Initorio noted, “This museum represents not just a retelling of history but a reawakening of our national consciousness—honoring the past, informing the present, and inspiring the future.”

The Mt. Samat Underground Museum is set to reopen its doors to the public in June 2025, offering a vital space for education, commemoration, and reflection within the Shrine of Valor.

More activities at Mt. Samat Shrine to celebrate Philippine Veterans’ Week

To further commemorate Philippine Veterans Week and Araw ng Kagitingan, TIEZA – MS-

FTEZ, in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), the Provincial

Government of Bataan (PGB), and Municipality of Pilar, participated in the “Parada ng

Kagitingan” on April 8, 2025, a vibrant float parade featuring entries from the four districts if

Bataan and MS-FTEZ.

The TIEZA – MS-FTEZ will also launch at the University of Santo Tomas in España, Manila, the “Faces of Valor” (FoV) Photo Exhibit, scheduled from 23 April to 30 April, showcasing past and prospective Congressional Gold Medal awardees. Held annually as part of the Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration, the exhibit highlights the sacrifices of war veterans while emphasizing the importance of honoring and supporting today’s veterans. More than a tribute, the FoV fosters patriotism and a deeper appreciation for the country among Filipinos and foreign visitors alike.

These meaningful activities aim to celebrate courage, uphold historical memory, and inspire future generations. The redevelopment initiative and the commemorative events surrounding Araw Ng Kagitingan and Philippine Veterans’ Week exemplify TIEZA’s unwavering commitment to preserving the country’s historical legacy while enriching the tourism experience for both present and future generations.

To learn more about TIEZA’s mandate and projects, visit https://tieza.gov.ph and follow TIEZA on social media: @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X.

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ABOUT TIEZA

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is the infrastructure,

investment, and asset management arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), mandated to develop, manage, and supervise tourism infrastructure projects and Tourism Enterprise Zones (TEZs) across the country. Through strategic investments in public tourism facilities, flagship destinations, and sustainable development initiatives, TIEZA plays a vital role in enhancing the country’s tourism experience and promoting inclusive growth. With a focus on heritage preservation, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment, TIEZA is committed to transforming the Philippines into a globally competitive and sustainable tourism destination.

For more information, visit https://tieza.gov.ph and follow TIEZA on social media:

@TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X.

UPMG induction of 2025-2027 Officers & Board of Directors & awarding of Top Advertisers & Agencies

by Info @Business | Apr. 10, 2025

PAST PRESIDENT OF UPMG MR. BARBIE ATIENZA AND THE NEW PRESIDENT OF UPMG VIVIENNE A. MOTOMAL

United Print Media & Multimedia Group Philippines ( UPMG), the progressive organization of print media and publication companies, held its 1st General Membership meeting for year 2025 last March 26, 2025 at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel to officially welcome the new UPMG Officers & Board of Directors and at the same time award the Top Advertisers & Ad Agencies for year 2024.

UPMG, is composed of publication companies like major dailies, broadsheets, magazines, and tabloids which advocates the safeguarding of the interest of Philippine print media by vigorously working towards the standardization of its policies and

regulations as well as its values and ethical practices especially with the advent of digital era.

During the event, keynote speaker and inducting officer SENATOR GRACE POE emphasized the significance of print media in today’s society saying, “Despite the rise of digital media, it is widely agreed upon that print media remains relevant for several reasons: 1st , its perceived credibility, trust, and reliability, 2nd, its tangibility and the unique physical and lasting experience it offers; and 3rd, its diversity.”

Senator Poe acknowledged print media’s power to combat disinformation and misinformation through its rigorous fact-checking process overseen by the editorial team.

It can also reach diverse demographics including those who may not have access to the internet or have visual impairments” she continued. “ Print remains a section in the media today because it is seen as a bastion of accountability and responsibility.. Lastly, Sen. Poe mentioned that Print Media is a source of credible information..

A NEW ERA of UPMG

During the event, UPMG officially introduced and inducted the new set of Officers & Board of Directors for the year 2025-2027.

The new set of Officers and Board of Directors, led by President VIVIENNE A. MOTOMAL of the Journal Group of Publications , took their oath of office before Senator GRACE L. POE. The newly Inducted officers were;Angel Guerrero of Adobo Magazine as Vice-president, Jeannette Domingues of Business World as Corporate Secretary, Sherly Baula of Chinese Commercial News as Treasurer, Roda-Alonzo Zabat of Manila Times as Auditor, Aldwin Tolosa of Business Mirror as Public Relations Officer, Jhong Arcano of Inquirer of Philippine Daily Inquirer as Director, Edna Abong of Pilipino Star Ngayon & Freeman as Director and Carol Agabin of Gadgets as Director and Eve Bacani of Inquirer as Credit & Review Board Head.

As the 5th President of UPMG, Ms. Motomal felt immense pride and gratitude in her newly bestowed position, envisioning a more dynamic and energetic UPMG team to elevate the print industry to new heights.

“I am confident that this 2025-2027 team can revive the glory of print and strengthen its presence in the industry, be it advertising, editorial and readership.”Ms. Motomal said.

She added that: For the next two years, this team has envisioned the following: We will continue the partnerships with the different government offices as started by past President Atienza, we shall also continue close coordination and partnerships with the different industry organizations like PANA, 4A’s, ASC and others.

During her term, Ms. Motomal aims to reach out to the youth to rekindle the passion and interest to read newspapers, magazines and books through print campaigns among others.

“ Thus , we invite the digital platforms to be a member of UPMG and explore the possibilities of reaching all sectors of society.. We shall not compete but we shall collaborate. A mixed media platform shall be part of this collaboration” Ms. Motomal mentioned, recognizing the power of social media and its potential more so if mixed with the print media reaching all audiences.

Immediate past president, Mr. Barbie Atienza of Manila Bulletin, expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him over its eight-year term and conveyed his best wishes for the

UPMG’s future under the newly chosen leaders. As I step down I am confident that under the helm of the new leader Ms. Vi Motomal, and its officers, UPMG is in great hands. Trust our mission. Atienza added.

UPMG BOARD AND OFFICERS WITH THE TOP ADVERTISERS AND TOP AGENCIES FOR YEAR 2024

THE HEADLINERS 2024 WINNERS

Another highlight of the event was “The Headliners Award” which recognized the top performing advertisers and Ad agencies who exemplified loyal patronage and continued support in the power of print media.

Leading the roster of top advertisers were: City of Makati, Robinsons Land, BDO, Federal Land, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, Meralco, Megaworld, Toyota, and Pag-ibig, with SM SUPERMALLS securing the top position among advertisers.

While the top advertising Agencies were led by STARCOM, IPG Media Brands, Medialine, PHD, and Astra Media.

SM Supermalls Vice-President for corporate Marketing Ms. Grace Victoria Fornier Magno thanked UPMG for naming SM Supermalls “The Headliner 2024 Top Advertiser”

emphasizing the enduring value the company places on print media with their long-standing partnerships with publication companies.

“In SM Supermalls, we like to celebrate Filipino culture and connect with our customers and we think that the only media that gives credibility is really print,”

Ms. Magno shared, highlighting the crucial role of print media in disseminating information. “ It’s a symbol of trust and prestige when you are in a

newspaper and in the frontpages.”

Jace Suzara, Group Media Director-Head of Constellation of STARCOM, also reiterated the veracity of the medium in providing information.

“ Print Media nowadays, is a symbol of trust and credibility. At the time when misinformation and digital clutter are pervasive, print remains the beacon of reliability” he affirmed. “Print media has not only endured the test of time and continues to thrive.

They continue to provide us with resilience and adaptability” He added, “ One thing that print offers versus other mediums is the sensory experience that can only be done by print medium. The weight of a newspaper, the texture of a magazine, and the vibrant colors of a well-designed advertisement, these elements create a connection that goes

beyond the screen.”

Industrialist Victor Lim elected as new President of FFCCCII

by Info @Business | Apr. 8, 2025

Manila, Philippines – The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) today April 6, 2025, announced the election of industrialist and philanthropist Victor Lim as its new President following a three-day biennial national convention and three rounds of voting by 800 delegates representing 170 Filipino Chinese business chambers and organizations. The convention was held at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. 

Lim succeeds outgoing President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, who led FFCCCII’s post-pandemic recovery and digitalization initiatives from 2023-2025. The transition marks a new chapter for the 71-year-old federation, the Philippines’ largest coalition of Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs and philanthropists.  Aside from progressive business and economic advocacies, FFCCCII spearheads numerous socio-civic and cultural charities. 

A PROVEN LEADER WITH DEEP ROOTS  

Victor Lim brings four decades of executive experience across manufacturing, trade, and education advocacy:  

- President/CEO of VECO Paper Corporation and Everwealth Traders and Development Corporation  

- Former EVP of FFCCCII and past leader of multiple industry groups:  

- President: Philippine Stationeries Association, Alliance of Paper Traders Association, Philippine School Pads and Notebooks Manufacturers Association  

- Adviser: Philippine Paper Industry Council  

- Education Advocate:  

- Vice President, St. Stephen’s High School Board of Trustees  

- Past President, St. Stephen’s High School Alumni Association  

- Community Bridge-Builder:  

- Former leader of the Grand Family Association and Philippine Sejo Lim Family Association  

A graduate of University of Santo Tomas (BS Chemical Engineering) and St. Stephen’s High School, Victor Lim embodies FFCCCII’s motto: “Business Excellence with Social Responsibility.” He is also first cousin of the late FFCCCII President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong of the Sterling Paper Group.