Abi Marquez Earns Back-to-Back Webby Nominations After Last Year’s Win

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Filipino culinary content creator and "Lumpia Queen" Abi Marquez has once again been nominated for the prestigious Webby Awards in the Creators - Food & Drink category. Following her Webby People’s Voice Award win in 2024, this second consecutive nomination cements her status as a leading figure in the digital food space and a proud representative of Filipino cuisine on the global stage.

Abi has captivated audiences with her innovative, mouthwatering recipes, making Filipino food more accessible and appreciated worldwide. Her dedication to storytelling through food has not only earned her a loyal following but also elevated Filipino cuisine in the international culinary scene.

Last year, in 2024, she won the Webby People’s Voice Award, a testament to her strong connection with her audience and her incredible talent.

Photo courtesy of The Webby Awards.

Abi’s success is a victory for the Philippines and Filipino cuisine on the global stage. As a proud Filipino creator, Abi has been instrumental in showcasing the beauty and depth of Filipino food, making it more accessible and appreciated by audiences worldwide. Her nomination and potential win bring well-deserved recognition to the richness of Filipino culinary traditions, inspiring more people to explore and celebrate our vibrant flavors.

Abi is up against some formidable competition, including renowned food personality Joshua Weissman, best known for his viral cooking videos and extensive social media presence, and Babish (Andrew Rea), the creator behind the wildly popular YouTube series Binging with Babish, which recreates iconic meals from film and television. Another competitor is Olivia Tiedemann, a rising star in the food content space whose innovative recipes have captivated audiences across multiple platforms.

What It Means to Be a Webby Nominee

Being nominated for a Webby Award is a major achievement. With over 13,000 entries submitted across various categories, only the top 12% of projects receive nominations, making this an elite recognition. The Webby Awards, known as the "Oscars of the Internet," celebrate the best in digital content, and winning a Webby signifies excellence in creativity, impact, and innovation.

There are two major awards up for grabs:

●     The Webby Award, selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS).

●     The Webby People’s Voice Award, which is decided by public voting.

Winning the People’s Voice Award would be a huge milestone for Abi, giving her well-deserved recognition for her creativity, dedication, and influence in the online food community. Her 2024 victory showed the power of her fanbase—let’s make it happen again!

How to Vote for Abi Marquez

Fans and food lovers can help Abi secure the Webby People’s Voice Award by casting their votes online. Voting is open now and will run until Thursday, April 17th, at 11:59 PM PDT.

To vote, simply visit: Webby Awards Voting Page

1. Type in your browser: https://www.webbyawards.com/

2. Select: Go Vote

3. Select: Start Voting

4. Select: Categories

5. Select Creators

6. Select: Food and Drink

7. Vote for Abi

Join the Campaign & Show Your Support

Show your Pinoy pride and support, Abi Marquez by:

●     Voting for her Webby People’s Voice Award.

●     Sharing the voting link on social media using the hashtag #VoteAbiMarquezWebby.

●     Tagging @thewebbyawards and @abimarquez @nyma to spread the word.

Winners will be announced on Tuesday, April 22nd, with an exclusive awards ceremony taking place on Monday, May 12th, in New York City.

Let’s rally behind our Lumpia Queen and help her bring home a 2nd People’s Voice Webby for the Philippines! Cast your vote today and celebrate the incredible work she continues to share with the world.

 

ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X

These Voltes V Capsule Toys Are Made in the Philippines

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　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　ⒸTOEI COMPANY, LTD.

For nearly 50 years, Voltes V has captivated fans across generations, and now, its legacy continues with these capsule toys. While the series premiered in Japan in 1977, production and planning began as early as 1975—making this milestone even more meaningful.

This Voltes V capsule toy project was Initiated by Bandai Inc. in Japan and crafted by Bandai Namco Philippines Inc. (BNPI) in Batangas, which offers fans a unique way to celebrate the show’s impact for half a century and generations of fans.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　ⒸTOEI COMPANY, LTD.

Iconic Designs, Perfectly Captured

The memorable characters and scenes from Voltes V are immortalized in acrylic charms. It’s a creative nod to the anime’s enduring legacy, especially among Filipino fans. Now, they can fondly look back on these iconic scenes with their own miniature accessories, now available in capsule vending machines.

Proudly Filipino-Made

The story of these toys begins in the LIMA Technology Center, Lipa City, Batangas, where BNPI, a leader in Capsule Toy Vending Machine Manufacturing, brings them to life. Since 2012, BNPI has been creating capsule toys and vending machines for global markets and has become the world's leading producer of Gashapon Station™ vending machines, manufacturing about 80 to 90% of them in the Philippines.

If you didn’t already know, "Gashapon®" refers to BANDAI’s capsule toy brand, sold through Gashapon Station™ (the brand’s capsule vending machines) that bring excitement to collectors worldwide. Each capsule holds a surprise, making every turn of the handle a thrilling experience. Many new capsule toy products are released every month, including some capsule toys - like the Voltes V capsule toys - that are made in the Philippines, a testament to the skill and dedication of Filipino workers.    This isn’t just about manufacturing—it’s about community. BNPI has been a cornerstone of local economic growth, providing jobs and showcasing Filipino craftsmanship to the world. By purchasing these toys, fans are directly supporting the people and talent behind their creation.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 ⒸTOEI COMPANY, LTD.

A Legacy Loved by Generations

Voltes V’s story has captivated generations since its inception, starting with production efforts dating back to 1975 and its premiere in Japan in 1977. With the 50th anniversary on the horizon, these toys are a fitting tribute to an anime that has become a cultural icon in the Philippines. Whether you grew up watching the show or are discovering it through its live-action adaptation, these toys connect past and present in a meaningful way.

These toys are a rare find for collectors. The Gashapon Bandai Official Shop and select capsule vending machines are the only places where you can get your hands on these treasures.

Celebrate Filipino Ingenuity

These capsule toys are more than just collectibles—they’re symbols of Filipino pride, creativity, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Voltes V or a collector of rare finds, these toys offer a chance to celebrate a legacy that’s uniquely ours. Find them today at the Gashapon Bandai Official Shop or capsule vending machines across Metro Manila and select locations in Japan.

For more information, visit BNPI’s official website. You can also follow them on the official GBO Philippines and the official BNPI Facebook account.

 

_______________________________________________

About Bandai Namco Philippines Inc. (BNPI)

Bandai Namco Philippines Inc. (BNPI) is a leading manufacturing hub of the Bandai Namco Group, specializing in high-quality capsule toys and Gashapon Station™ vending machines. Based in the LIMA Technology Center, Batangas, BNPI produces about 80 to 90% of the world’s Gashapon Station™ machines., making it a toy manufacturing global leader. Since 2012, BNPI has combined Japanese innovation with Filipino craftsmanship, bringing Bandai Namco’s beloved collectibles to life.

For Filipino collectors and fans, Gashapon Bandai Official (GBO) shops offer an authentic Gashapon experience, featuring a variety of officially licensed capsule toys. In the Philippines, GBO stores are available at Mitsukoshi Mall BGC, GH Mall, Robinsons Opus Mall, Rustans Makati, SM City J Mall, SM Mall of Asia (North Main), Eastwood Mall, SM Aura, and The Block - SM North Edsa.

About GASHAPON ®

"Gashapon® " is the original capsule toy brand in Japan with top sales share among the capsule toy industry, developed by Bandai, the Japanese entertainment company. A capsule toy is dispensed by turning the handle of a Gashapon Station™ (Bandai's capsule vending machine).

The excitement of not knowing what customers will get until they open the capsules adds to the fun of discovering the item inside.

Gashapon® offers a wide variety of high-quality products, including anime character figures, animal figurines, miniatures, accessories, and more. Currently, official Gashapon® shops are expanding across 16 regions and areas worldwide.

Reimagine style and power with vivo V50 Lite this April 12

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Gear up for the arrival of the vivo V50 Lite, hitting the Philippine market on April 12, 2025. It seamlessly combines premium and sleek design with a powerful feature you won't want to miss.

Premium colors that turn heads

The vivo V50 Lite in Titanium Gold redefines elegance with its matte titanium metal finish, delivering a luxurious touch that’s as stunning as it is comfortable to hold. Framed with a high-gloss metallic edge, this device exudes sophistication.

For those who crave an extra touch of opulence, Titanium Gold radiates luxury and prestige. If you prefer a more mysterious allure, Phantom Black subtly shifts with hints of purple, while Fantasy Purple brings a dreamy fusion of soft purple and pink hues, creating a mesmerizing effect.

Designed with artistry in mind

One of the most striking elements of the vivo V50 Lite is its diamond inlay camera module, a statement piece that reflects both innovation and artistic craftsmanship.

This refined detail not only enhances its aesthetics but also reinforces vivo’s commitment to stylish, functional design.

Slimmest phone with a large battery

Measuring just 7.79mm, the vivo V50 Lite holds the title of the slimmest phone in its price range - as sleek as a stack of three coins.

Despite its ultra-slim profile, the V50 Lite is equipped with a large battery. How large? Stay tuned!

Be among the first to witness the vivo V50 Lite in action at its official launch on April 12, 2025, at 5 PM, happening at Robinsons Manila Midtown Activity Area. Adding to the excitement, a surprise celebrity endorser will take center stage.

Can't attend in person? Tune in to the vivo Facebook page for the live stream and experience innovation from anywhere!

Get ready for longer battery life, a more durable design, and vibrant photos like never before with the vivo V50 Lite. Follow vivo on Facebook, TikTok, and X to stay updated on all the latest announcements.

A Wickedly Grand Easter Celebration and Holy Week Dining Delights at The Manila Hotel

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The Manila Hotel invites guests to immerse themselves in a season of reflection, culinary delights, and family-friendly festivities with a carefully curated lineup of Holy Week and Easter events, as well as special dining offers this April. From a magical Easter celebration to a spiritual Visita Iglesia pilgrimage, along with dining experiences at Café Ilang-Ilang, Lobby Lounge, and M Takeout, there is something for everyone to experience.

Easter at the EGGmerald City

Families are in for a wickedly fun Easter at The Manila Hotel’s Tent City on April 20, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Inspired by the whimsical world of Wizard of Oz, Easter at the EGGmerald City will transform the venue into an emerald and pink-colored wonderland filled with activities for children, including bouncy castles, face painting, cupcake making, arts and crafts, egg decorating, a magic show, balloon twisting, a musical, and much more. Hotel mascot Willy the Bear will make a special appearance, ready to meet junior guests and pose for photos.

“We are thrilled to host a truly unique Easter celebration this year, bringing the wicked world of Oz into reality for the spectacle for our junior guests,” says Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel. “This is a wonderful opportunity for families to create lasting memories together in a fun and magical atmosphere.”

Tickets for Easter at the EGGmerald City is priced at Php 1,999 net, which includes admission for one child (12 years old and below) and one adult companion (13 years old and above).

For families seeking to extend fun, The Manila Hotel offers a special room package at Php 10,000 net inclusive of an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast buffet for two persons at Café Ilang-Ilang, and one complimentary ticket to Easter at the EGGmerald City. Booking period is ongoing until April 19, 2025. Stay date is on April 20, 2025. Terms and conditions apply. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit Numbers FTEB-217902 and FTEB-217877. Series of 2025.

Visita Iglesia: A Holy Week Pilgrimage

In the spirit of Lenten reflection, The Manila Hotel invites guests to join a meaningful Visita Iglesia tour on Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025. The tour will be led by The Traveling Salakot, Paul John Hernandez, a social science educator known for his engaging historical tours that highlight Filipino heritage. Recognized by the Department of Tourism and National Parks Development Committee, The Traveling Salakot brings deep insight into the significance of each church along the route.

Visita Iglesia will include visits to Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Santa Rita Chapel, Saint Vincent de Paul Parish Church, Santa Maria Goretti, Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guia, and Our Lady of Remedies Church.

Priced at Php 1,500 per adult and Php 750 per child (12 years old and below), the package includes roundtrip shuttle service and snacks. Two schedules are available: 8:00 am to 12:00 nn and 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Limited slots are available, and reservations are recommended through +632 8527 0011 or concierge@themanilahotel.com.

For a complete Holy Week retreat, guests can avail the Visita Iglesia Room Offer at Php 10,000 per room per night, which includes a stay in a Deluxe Room, breakfast for two at Café Ilang-Ilang, and Visita Iglesia tour access for two adults and two kids. Reservations are open until April 16, 2025 through +632 8527 0011 or resvn@themanilahotel.com, with stay dates from April 16 to 18, 2025 inclusive.

Pampanga Food Festival at Café Ilang-Ilang

Back due to popular demand, the Pampanga Food Festival returns to Café Ilang-Ilang from April 1 to 15, 2025, showcasing the rich flavors of Kapampangan cuisine. Lunch and dinner buffet will feature a rotating selection of beloved regional dishes including Pako Salad, Sisig, Batuteng Tugak (stuffed frog), Sipo Egg, Pritong Itik, Suam na Native Mais, Kalderetang Bibe sa Gata, Adobo Balut, Bringhe, Tibok Tibok, Turrones de Casoy, and more.

Lenten Specials at The Manila Hotel

Observing solemnity of Holy Week, The Manila Hotel presents a special Lenten Menu at the Lobby Lounge, available until April 20, 2025, featuring a selection of flavorful meat-free dishes: Easter Salad, Barley Vegetable Soup, Salmon Carbonara, Shrimp Pesto Pizza, and Norwegian Salmon Fillet.

For those preferring to observe the season at home, M Takeout offers a Lenten Home Buffet, featuring traditional and seafood-based dishes including Green Mango and Singkamas with Bagoong, Tuna Kinilaw with Gata, Escabeche Maya-Maya, Halabos ng Hipon, Inihaw na Lumot, Rellenong Alimasag, Kilawing Puso ng Saging, Vegetable Pancit Bihon with Tokwa, and Steamed Rice. Available from April 1 to 30, 2025, this set is priced at Php 4,880.

For further inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Experience the Richness of Filipino Flavor at the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair

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Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair is a vibrant celebration of Filipino heritage, culinary creativity, and entrepreneurship. The fair brings together over 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from all corners of the country to showcase the very best of Philippine food and beverage products.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the official opening ceremony of the 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, a five-day celebration of Filipino culinary heritage and innovation. In photo are (L-R): SM Investments Corporation Vice-Chairman Tessie Sy-Coson, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco, First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, and William Vincent A. Marcos.

In his message of support, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the event’s significance, saying: “This national food fair is more than a gastronomic celebration of our rich and diverse culinary heritage. It is a testament to the incredible talent, ingenuity, and industry of our local farmers and artisans who bring pride and honor to our country.”

In her keynote address, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque echoed the importance of supporting Filipino enterprises. “From the prized heirloom rice and coffee of the Cordilleras, to the artisanal chocolate of Mindanao, and the delightful fruit wines and kakanin of the Visayas—our unparalleled regional food heritage takes center stage,” she said. “Through this fair, we reaffirm that heritage cuisine is not just about tradition—it is about innovation, preservation, and sustainability”

A significant highlight of this year’s fair is the launch of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace, the country’s largest B2B e-commerce platform dedicated to Philippine MSMEs. This platform aims to connect local entrepreneurs with institutional buyers and wholesale partners, both nationally and internationally, fostering a dynamic and inclusive digital ecosystem.

This aligns with the government’s Tatak Pinoy Strategy, a bold initiative to strengthen the country’s industrial capacity and elevate the global competitiveness of locally made products. Anchored on innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, Tatak Pinoy empowers Filipino businesses—especially MSMEs—to move up the value chain, penetrate larger markets, and contribute more significantly to national development. By cultivating industries that reflect Filipino excellence, the strategy supports a future where high-quality Philippine products are not only locally celebrated but globally recognized.

The fair also features themed pavilions such as the Fresh Produce Grand Marketplace, KAPEtirya: Philippine Coffee Pavilion, and KAINAN: Onsite Dining Area, offering immersive culinary experiences. Daily activities include live cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, wine-mixing and food-pairing sessions, business dialogues, and cultural performances.

Event Details:

• What: 2025 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair

• When: April 9–13, 2025

• Where: Megatrade Halls 1-3, Level 5, Mega B, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City

• Admission: Free

Follow DTI-BMDPO for Updates:

• Facebook: @BDTP

• X (Twitter): @DTI_BMDPO

• Instagram: @dti.bmdpo

• TikTok: @dti.bmdpo

• YouTube: @dti_bmdpo

For inquiries, please email the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP at BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. Aspiring entrepreneurs can also ask about future events through their local DTI Office.