TP in the Philippines Champions Women Empowerment and Inclusivity

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TP in the Philippines (formerly Teleperformance) marked Women’s Month with a series of meaningful activities that promote empowerment, intersectionality, and leadership with TP Women. Through these initiatives, the organization continues to reinforce its steadfast commitment to building inclusive workplaces where women can thrive both personally and professionally.

TP prides itself as an organization that celebrates the women who aren't just predicting the future but are proactively building it. In celebration of Women’s Month, TP organized a Leadership Summit which puts a spotlight on the leadership roles that women play in the organization’s successes.

TP Women is a global employee network that provides women across the organization with a platform to be heard, supported and empowered in their personal development and professional careers.

Inclusivity, Empowerment, and Stronger Policy for Women

Among TP’s initiatives for Women’s Month was ‘Harmony Queentuhan,’ a culture and belonging initiative that created a space for women employees to share their experiences and reflect on intersectionality in the workplace.

The discussions centered on the concept of who women are beyond their professional and personal roles, recognizing how their personal realities and responsibilities intersect with professional life and shape their experiences in the workplace. The dialogue also gave the women a platform to explore ideas for strengthening policies and opportunities for women to grow and lead.

TP in the Philippines also deepened its institutional commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive workplace through its "Building a Safer, More Inclusive Workplace for Women at TP" toolkit. The material outlines the company’s resources, policies and support frameworks for women, covering provisions such as its Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy, Battered Women Leave, and Magna Carta for Women.

Capping the Women’s Month celebrations was the ‘EmpowerHER Leadership Summit,’ serving as the cornerstone event, which brought together leaders, advocates and allies across TP in the Philippines to discuss the realities of women in the industry, especially in an era increasingly shaped by AI.

Women in Leadership and AI

The company also participated in the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines’ (ECCP) International Women’s Day celebration, ‘Women Who Shape Tomorrow: Giving to Gain Progress,’ where Toni Tompar, Executive Vice President for Operations for TP in the Philippines, delivered an impactful message on the future of women in leadership.

A central theme of her address was the intersection of emotional intelligence (EI) and artificial intelligence (AI). Tompar encourages leaders to reimagine traditional corporate structures, and embrace human-centered skills to navigate challenges.

Tompar also shares that the most forward-thinking teams operate in favor of outcome-driven behavior and performance, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where women can excel without the constraints of outdated structures.

“It’s important we look at what we call the ‘invisible backpack’ that women continue to carry such as time constraints, social expectations, and physical circumstances,” Tompar said. “These are barriers that greatly affect the opportunities we have to focus on and further our careers.”

Her message called on organizations to support and mentor emerging women leaders, break barriers, and champion inclusion as a foundation for modern business leadership. The forum also featured Operations Vice President Nina Kristine Abad as a panelist, contributing insights on supporting women leaders and fostering inclusive workplace practices.

TP also took part in the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines’ (CCIFP) forum, ‘Inclusive Intelligence: Women Advancing AI for Philippine Development.’

Left photo: The French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines recently staged their Women’s month session ‘Inclusive Intelligence: Women Advancing AI for Philippine Development at the TP Innovations & Solutions Hub in Taguig. Right Photo: TP Executive Vice President for Operations Toni Tompar joined industry leaders at the ECCP International Women’s Month Forum to discuss how we are accelerating women’s leadership through high-impact development and sponsorship.

The session explored how female leadership is pivotal in ensuring that AI development remains equitable and inclusive in the Philippines, reinforcing the importance of women’s voices in shaping equitable, responsible and people-centered technological advancement.

“At TP in the Philippines, inclusion is not a one-time effort. It’s something we continuously build into how we support our people. When individuals feel seen and valued, they are empowered to grow and lead,” said Rachel Cacabelos, Vice President for Human Resources at TP.

As the future of work continues to evolve, TP in the Philippines continues to set a standard for workplace inclusivity and women empowerment in the IT-BPM industry. The organization continues to create pathways for women to thrive and succeed through equitable opportunities, supporting communities, and sustained leadership development.

Richmonde Hotels Celebrates Moms with the Gift of Time and Togetherness

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Mother’s Day gifts may come in many forms, but the ones moms treasure most are often the simplest: time to relax, and moments made more meaningful by the presence of family.

This Mother’s Day, Richmonde Hotels invites families to give mom exactly that—a day, or even a weekend, filled with comfort, good food, and the joy of being surrounded by her favorite people. Instead of spending hours on the road or settling for the usual celebrations at home, families can enjoy a thoughtfully prepared staycation experience where every detail is designed to make mom feel cherished.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: A Gathering Place for the Whole Family

At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Mother’s Day is made for families who want to slow down and reconnect. From grandparents to grandchildren, everyone can settle into a relaxing weekend with the hotel’s special Richmonde Exclusives room offer available from May 8 to 10, 2026 at room only rates starting at PhP 3,900nett, complete with perks for mom that include a welcome amenity, discounts on in-room massage and food & beverage orders, and coupons for discounts on beauty treatments and complimentary Photo Activated Light Therapy service from Vine Aesthetics at Rockwell Ortigas.

The celebration continues at Richmonde Café’s Flavors of Asia Mother’s Day Lunch Buffet on May 10, where a vibrant spread of well-loved dishes and live cooking stations creates the perfect setting for a leisurely family feast. It is a table where lolos and lolas, parents, and little ones can all find something to love, making the meal itself a shared experience across generations. Reasonably priced at PhP 1,388nett with discounts applicable for seniors and kids, the buffet is an indulgent treat for everyone that won’t break the bank.

“As a mother myself, I truly believe that what moms cherish most are the moments when the whole family is together—no distractions, no rush, just genuine time shared with the people we love,” says Tina Lazaro, Director of Sales and Marketing for Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel. “At Richmonde, we wanted to create an experience where families can simply enjoy being with one another and turn Mother’s Day into a memory that stays with them.”

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Easy Celebrations, Meaningful Moments

For families who want a celebration that is both effortless and memorable, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offers the perfect setting. With direct access to the mall, the hotel makes it easy to turn Mother’s Day into a full day of bonding—whether it’s a relaxed lunch, a little shopping for mom, or a cinema date with the kids.

Its Richmonde Exclusives for Mom room package, also available from May 8 to 10, 2026, starts at PhP 4,500 nett and comes with thoughtful inclusions such as a meaningful token from Project Payatas, hotel dining & massage discounts, marked-down spa services from Lumiere Skin & Spa, plus the welcome bonus of a late check-out so the family can linger a little longer.

At Eastwood Café+Bar, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, a Filipino Fiesta is served in honor of mom on May 10th, bringing families together over a lunch buffet spread of well-loved local dishes priced at a budget-friendly rate of PhP 1,200 nett, with special group offers of 20% off also available for families of 4 or more.

“Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones—the kind where everyone is together and no one has to worry about the logistics,” Lazaro adds. “That’s what we hope to give families here: the gift of a day that flows naturally from one beautiful moment to the next.”

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Spacious Stays and Memories Made with Love

At Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Mother’s Day unfolds at a more leisurely pace. Spacious rooms, the refreshing pool, and the hotel’s prime location within Iloilo Business Park make it an ideal escape for families looking to spend uninterrupted quality time together. Just for the weekend of May 8 to 10, 2026, a room package “Made for Moms” includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet for two, complimentary massage and token for mom and priced starting at PhP 6,300 nett.

At The Granary, the Daha: From Mom’s Recipes to Your Table buffet pays tribute to mothers through food and family tradition. Inspired by heirloom recipes from the chefs’ own nanays, each dish tells a story of love passed down through generations. Interactive stations—from freshly prepared ukoy to hands-on pancit molo and a delightful DIY cupcake corner—bring an element of storytelling and shared experience to the table.

“There is something deeply special about memories made around the table,” shares Czarina Galano, Director of Sales and Marketing of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. “As mothers, we hold close the moments when our families are complete—sharing stories, enjoying a meal, and simply being together. This Mother’s Day, we want to give families a space where those moments can happen beautifully and effortlessly.”

Richmonde Iloilo’s unique yet familiar spread of comforting dishes at The Granary’s Mother’s Day buffet is available for lunch and dinner service and is priced at PhP 1,650 nett with discounts for seniors and children applicable.

This year, give mom something she will truly treasure: a day filled with laughter, warmth, and family togetherness. At Richmonde Hotels, the most meaningful celebration is not about going far or spending more—it’s about making every moment count with the people who matter most.

For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel may be reached at (632) 8570 7777, stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph. For celebrations and staycations in the City of Love, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is available at (6333) 328 7888, stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.p

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About Richmomde Hotels

The Richmonde Hotel group is the first homegrown hotel brand established by the country’s premier real estate developer, Megarowld Corporation, under its hospitality division, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts. Currently, there are three Richmonde properties located in key commercial and business districts in Metro Manila and Iloilo City. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, log on to their official websites at www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph, www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph, and www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

About Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. The hotel chain is the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group recognized by the World Travel Awards and the country’s largest hotel operator with 13 hotels, 7 brands, and 8,500 room keys including the ones in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, the sampaguita, across its brands including Savoy and Belmont in Boracay, Mactan Cebu, and Pasay. Richmonde hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo. And Kingsford Hotel and Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque and Hotel Lucky Chinatown Hotel in Binondo and in Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas.

The Ocean Cleanup marks first milestone with Meycauayan plastic Interceptor rollout

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The first Interceptor barrier in the Manila Bay region to be operational by June 2026

Global non-profit organization, The Ocean Cleanup, reinforces its commitment to mitigating ocean-bound plastic waste from the Manila Bay region, with the deployment of its first Interceptor™ barrier in the Philippines, set to be in the Meycauayan River by June 2026.

This follows the recent announcement of Interceptor deployments in the entire Manila Bay region, as part of The Ocean Cleanup’s global initiative, the 30 Cities Program, which aims to accelerate efforts to intercept and remove ocean-bound plastic pollution from rivers globally by up to one third, by the end of the decade.

In partnership with the City of Meycauayan and supported by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), this new Interceptor barrier will replace an existing trash trap and enhance plastic waste interception capacity before it reaches Manila Bay.

The significant advancement will enable the capture of some of the projected 370 to 540 tonnes of annual emissions from the Meycauayan River system into Manila Bay.

“This milestone brings us one step closer to building tangible solutions toward cleaner rivers and healthier communities in the Manila Bay region. We are excited to collaborate with the City of Meycauayan on this first deployment in the Philippines, where commitment and leadership play a vital role in mitigating ocean-bound plastic waste pollution,” said Boyan Slat, Founder and CEO, The Ocean Cleanup.

Henry R. Villarica, Mayor of Meycauayan, added: “In a timely and necessary step forward, our city is proud to formalize a partnership with The Ocean Cleanup to support the rehabilitation of the Meycauayan River. Our work has never stopped, and this collaboration strengthens our capacity to accelerate meaningful, lasting change. We are fully committed to doing everything in our power to rehabilitate our river for the health, dignity, and future of our community.”

Each year, an estimated 20,000 to 33,000 tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean from the Philippines. According to The Ocean Cleanup’s Smart River Survey, emissions are projected at 3,500 to 4,400 tonnes annually within the Manila Bay region alone, a clear indication of the challenge and the need for urgent solutions.

Rivers are a major source of plastic waste in the oceans, with 1000 of the three million rivers around the world responsible for 80% of the problem, according to The Ocean Cleanup. To address this, the organization deploys Interceptor solutions in rivers and works within local waste systems to stop plastic before it reaches the sea.

This initiative also underscores The Ocean Cleanup’s expanding network of partnerships, bringing together key stakeholders such as the Embassy of the Philippines in the Netherlands and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Philippines, alongside Energies PH as marine renewable energy advisors. The partners collectively work hand in hand with The Ocean Cleanup toward mitigating ocean-bound plastic in the Philippines.

This project is poised to grow even further as The Ocean Cleanup deepens its partnerships with the City of Meycauayan, other local government units, and organizations in the country to go beyond interceptor deployment and drive further awareness and research initiatives.

To find out more about The Ocean Cleanup, visit theoceancleanup.com.

About The Ocean Cleanup 

The Ocean Cleanup is a nonprofit organization that develops and scales technologies to rid the oceans of plastic. By conducting extensive research, engineering scalable solutions, and partnering with governments, industry, and like-minded organizations, The Ocean Cleanup is working to stop plastic inflow via rivers and remove legacy plastic already polluting the oceans. As of March 2025, the non-profit has collected over 50 million kilograms (110.2 million pounds) of trash from aquatic ecosystems around the world. Founded in 2013 by Boyan Slat, The Ocean Cleanup now employs a multi-disciplined team of approximately 200 people. The organization is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, with international operations in 10 countries.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run sets record for widest North American release of a Filipino documentary

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Ely Buendia and director-producer Maria Diane Ventura join fans in celebrating a milestone debut

From left to right: Byron Atienza, Creative Director of Live Nation; Hilarion Banks, one of the film editors and DOP; Maria Diane Ventura, filmmaker, writer and executive producer; Ely Buendia; and Winston Emano one of the film producers

Following a wave of sold-out advanced screenings across select cities in the United States and Canada, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run has set a new record as the Filipino documentary with the widest theatrical release in North America.

The award-winning docu film opened in more than 100 cinemas on April 24, 2026. To celebrate the release, Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia and director-producer Maria Diane Ventura made special appearances in select theaters in California, where they got to share the film’s growing success with the audience.

Ventura expressed gratitude for the overwhelming reception received by the film in its first few days of release. “It’s incredibly humbling. I feel a deep sense of gratitude to the audiences, to the critics, and to Abramorama for believing in the film and helping bring it to a wider audience.”

She adds, “What’s been most meaningful, though, is the way people have responded on a personal level. I’ve had people come up to me and share that they found a sense of healing in watching it or that it made them feel proud to be Filipino. Hearing that makes all the hard work and exhaustion worth it. That, to me, is the greatest reward.

To see a Filipino story resonate beyond our borders, and to feel that sense of identity and pride reflected back, reminds me why I do this. This film is a love letter to the Filipinos.

And I think it’s arriving at a time when people are searching for connection. We’re living in a period of division, but the film suggests that even then, there is still a way back to each other, through music, art and through storytelling, one of the few things we still all understand regardless of where we come from.”

Ely Buendia also thanked everyone who supported the film’s debut in North America. “To be embraced by the fans is proof that the film did something right. We didn’t want to let them down because this is their story too. And of course, to have the approval of the critics is icing on the cake. They have different standards and are not as subjective as the fans, so for them to think it was a good film, and a documentary at that, is quite amazing.”

Distributed in North America by Abramorama and produced by DVent Pictures, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run tells the story of the Philippines’ most influential band, tracing their meteoric rise from their formation in UP Diliman to becoming a defining voice of a generation, their painful breakup, and their eventual resurgence years later.

Set against the backdrop of the Philippines’ shifting socio-political landscape, the film situates the band’s journey within a country grappling with deep political polarization, reflecting how their music and story became intertwined with the nation’s cultural memory.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run’s special panel at Austin, Texas last month was recently heralded by Esquire Magazine as “The 5 Best Things We Saw at SXSW 2026.”

Eraserheads is now showing in North America.

For updates, announcements, and ticket information, visit eraserheadsfilm.com.

Best Local Summer Destinations to Enjoy Music with LG xboom Stage 301

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For many travelers, summer trips are not only about where to go, but also about how the experience feels once you get there. A surf morning, a late-afternoon island stop, or a slow evening after a full day outdoors can all feel more memorable with the right playlist in the background. That is where portable audio can naturally become part of the journey.

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• LG xboom Stage301 is designed for outdoor listening with 12 hours of playing time and IPX4 water resistance.

• The speaker features a 6.5-inch woofer, 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA), Space Calibration, and Wireless Party Link.

• Summer destinations such as Siargao, La Union, El Nido, Coron, and Southern Cebu offer natural settings for music-led getaways.

• For travelers heading farther afield, Bali and Jeju also pair well with outdoor adventures and portable audio.

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The LG xboom Stage 301 is designed for this kind of use. It features a 6.5-inch woofer, 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA), 12 hours of playing time, IPX4 water resistance, Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration that optimizes audio, Auracast, Wireless Party Link, and Karaoke / DJ Effects through the app. These features make it a fitting companion for outdoor plans, casual group trips, and summer escapes.

Here are some of the best destinations to pair with a summer soundtrack.

1. Siargao for surf mornings and sunset wind-downs

Siargao remains one of the country’s most popular summer escapes, especially for travelers drawn to surfing, island hopping, and laid-back afternoons. It is the kind of destination where days can shift quickly from active mornings to slower evenings, making music feel like a natural part of the in-between moments.

The LG xboom Stage301 works well for this kind of setup. Its 12 hours of playing time can support day-to-night listening, while IPX4 water resistance is useful for splash-prone outdoor settings. Its Wireless Party Link also helps support shared listening when a trip calls for a bigger sound experience.

2. La Union for road trips and beach house playlists

La Union continues to be a favorite for quick summer escapes, especially for travelers planning surf sessions, café stops, and relaxed evenings with friends. It is close enough for a spontaneous road trip, but still offers the atmosphere of a real getaway.

For this kind of trip, the LG xboom Stage301 supports the easy, social rhythm of the day. Its Space Calibration is designed to optimize audio, while Dual Bar Lighting adds a more lively mood for post-surf hangouts or late dinners by the shore.

3. El Nido for island-hopping days and scenic resets

El Nido is often the choice for travelers who want dramatic views, long boat days, and moments of quiet after being outdoors. It is less about bringing the loudest setup and more about having music that fits naturally into the environment.

The LG xboom Stage301 fits that balance well. Its 6.5-inch woofer and 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA) support outdoor listening, while its portable design and 12 hours of playing time make it practical for villa stays and day-long itineraries.

4. Coron for active mornings and easy evenings

Coron offers a summer rhythm shaped by movement—boat rides, lake visits, swimming, and short hikes—followed by slower evenings back at the accommodation. It is a destination where gear needs to keep up without feeling bulky or overly complicated.

This is where the LG xboom Stage301 feels appropriate. With IPX4 water resistance, Space Calibration, and Auracast, it supports a more flexible listening setup for trips that move between activity and downtime.

5. Southern Cebu for adventure-heavy weekends

For travelers whose summer plans lean toward canyoneering, waterfalls, and packed schedules, Southern Cebu offers a different kind of beach-season energy. It is ideal for people who want their getaway to feel active rather than purely restful.

The LG xboom Stage301 suits this kind of pace. Its 12 hours of playing time supports all-day use, while Karaoke / DJ Effects (App) and Wireless Party Link make it easy to shift from outdoor adventure to a more social evening setup.

6. Bali for tropical trips beyond the Philippines

If the itinerary extends beyond the Philippines, Bali remains an easy choice for surf, beach clubs, scenic stays, and outdoor dining. It is a destination where music often becomes part of the backdrop, whether during villa mornings or sunset gatherings.

The LG xboom Stage301 fits this kind of travel mood with Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration, and Auracast, helping make shared listening feel more seamless while keeping the setup simple.

7. Jeju for scenic drives and slower summer escapes

For something less party-driven and more scenic, Jeju offers a quieter but equally rewarding summer pace. Beaches, coastal drives, and open-air stops make it a good destination for travelers who want a more relaxed type of getaway.

In settings like these, the LG xboom Stage301 works best as a companion for unpacking, winding down, or setting the tone for a slow afternoon. Its Space Calibration and 12 hours of playing time support a more effortless travel listening experience.

Why LG xboom Stage301 works for summer

Summer plans tend to be flexible. One day might be a beach trip, the next a road trip, and the next an overnight stay with friends. What makes the LG xboom Stage301 a strong fit for this season is that its feature set aligns with how people actually travel: 12 hours of playing time, IPX4 water resistance, Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration, Auracast, and Wireless Party Link.

For travelers who want music to move with them—from surf towns to island escapes and scenic weekends—the LG xboom Stage301 is designed to support a more portable and more enjoyable summer listening experience.