by Ferry Bayu | Sep 17, 2025 | Business
Bookshelf PH joins the 2025 Manila International Book Fair from Sept. 10-14 at Booth 2-156, showcasing bold, diverse Filipino stories under the “BooX That Leave a Mark” movement. Highlights include new titles, author signings from the Sari-Sari Stories series, and a celebration of indie publishing that dares to make a lasting impact.
Publishing house Bookshelf PH, together with fellow local indie publishers, is once again part of BooX That Leave a Mark at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2025, happening from September 10 to 14, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. You can find them at Booth No. 2-156.
“BooX That Leave a Mark” is more than just a theme—it’s a movement. This year, indie publishers continue to celebrate stories that challenge conventions and create lasting impact. By bringing books outside the mainstream, the “X” underscores the daring spirit of independent publishing: to go against the grain, carve new spaces, and leave a mark on readers.
“Our goal has always been to champion unique stories and voices that deserve to be heard,” says Michelle Dulinayan, Marketing Manager of Bookshelf PH. “The MIBF remains a vital platform for authors, publishers, and readers to connect, and we’re proud to be part of that ongoing celebration of literature.”
Spotlight on Bookshelf PH Authors
On September 13, readers will get the chance to meet the brilliant minds behind Sari-Sari Stories, a growing anthology that captures the diversity of Filipino life and love. Evan Orias, Gwen (Zerodegreescelcius), Shanelle Recheta, JsslAwra, Lucky Charles Historia, and Kae Espejo will be at the booth to sign books and connect with fans. Their works reflect the everyday and extraordinary, weaving tales that resonate deeply with readers of all ages.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, September 14, author Jacqueline Dominique Go will hold a special book signing for The Adventures of Damgo: Leon in the Water World. This whimsical children’s series—illustrated in collaboration with pediatric cancer patients—champions both imagination and advocacy, with proceeds supporting art therapy initiatives.
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet these authors and celebrate stories that heal, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.
Featured Books at Booth 2-156
This year, Bookshelf PH brings a wide array of titles that celebrate the richness of Filipino creativity:
All for Love by Laura Nakpil – A heartfelt journey through the many shades of love.
The Adventures of Damgo: Leon in the Water World by Jacqueline Dominique Go – A whimsical children’s adventure illustrated by pediatric cancer patients, with proceeds supporting art therapy.
Peak Philippines: Your Guide to the Best Eats, Escapes, and Experiences by Gracy Fernandez – A travel and lifestyle guide spotlighting the very best of the country.
Gen Z Hustle: Winning the JA Young Entrepreneur and Beyond by Porsha Mangilit – A playbook for aspiring entrepreneurs inspired by real-life experience.
Fearless Filipinas 2 – Stories of inspiring women breaking barriers.
In the Darkness of Shards by Catherine Anne Castillo – A poignant novel exploring resilience in the face of pain.
Sari-Sari Stories: Family Edition, and Book of Pride – Anthologies highlighting love, kinship, and identity in Filipino life.
Jasmines in Her Hair by Kalpesh Desai – A collection of evocative poetry on love and belonging.
The Fish Series by Ernestina Go Shi – Playful, imaginative tales perfect for younger readers.
Celebrating Filipino Literature
Bookshelf PH’s participation at MIBF 2025 reflects its continued commitment to amplify Filipino voices and push the boundaries of local publishing. Alongside partner indie publishers in BooX That Leave a Mark, the collective will present titles that inspire, provoke thought, and resonate with the times.
“Promoting literature and nurturing a love for books are crucial for our cultural growth,” adds Dulinayan. “We invite everyone to visit our booth, explore these incredible works, and celebrate the vibrant storytelling tradition of the Philippines.”
Catch Bookshelf PH at MIBF 2025, Booth No. 2-156, from September 10 to 14, 2025, and immerse yourself in stories that truly leave a mark.
About Bookshelf PH
Bookshelf PH is a community of writers and storytellers dedicated to publishing and promoting Filipino values. As a publisher and online bookstore, Bookshelf PH offers comprehensive services, including writing, editing, design, and distribution, to guide authors from their initial idea to the printed page. Through its marketplace, it provides a platform for both established and aspiring writers to connect with a wider audience, aiming to inspire creativity and foster a love for local stories.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES.
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 17, 2025 | Business, Stories
In a stunning rise that’s shaking up the music industry, AuditionKpop.com, the official online gateway to Popolo Music Group (PMG), has skyrocketed to become the #1 online audition site for K-pop and P-pop aspirants worldwide. With over 300 new applicants every single day, it now outperforms legacy entertainment giants—and it’s only getting started.
This isn’t just a talent search. This is a global movement.
The Visionary Power Behind the Platform
At the helm is Pooh Lunt, the reclusive but revolutionary President & CEO of PMG, whose mission is nothing short of cultural transformation. Lunt aims to position PMG as the nucleus of the P-pop explosion, and turn the Philippines into the epicenter of Asian pop music dominance.
“We don’t want to follow trends—we want to build a new empire of sound,” Lunt declares. “PMG isn’t just discovering talent. We’re sculpting the future of global pop.”
Lunt’s bold vision is already taking shape, with hundreds of artists-in-the-making flooding AuditionKpop.com in hopes of joining PMG’s elite artist development ecosystem.
PMG’s 6-Month Trainee Program: Where Stars Are Made
Applicants who pass the initial selection are not thrown into the spotlight unprepared. Instead, they’re enrolled into PMG’s renowned 6-month intensive trainee program—a world-class artist factory modeled after both K-pop and systems and PMG’s uniquely empowering philosophy.
The program includes:
– Daily training in vocals, dance, and stagecraft
– One-on-one mentoring with top producers and PMG execs
– Endurance challenges to build resilience and focus
– Branding, styling, and media coaching to shape star image
– Multilingual and cultural training for global readiness
– Individual artistic identity development to avoid manufactured results
Only the best of the best make it out—with record contracts in hand and a spot in PMG’s 2026–2027 debut rosters for solo acts, girl groups, and boy bands.
Popolo Live: From Online Audition to Global Stage
PMG’s ambition doesn’t stop at the studio. The company’s Popolo Live arm is building an international touring circuit that will bring PMG’s artists directly to fans across Asia, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.
Each debut isn’t just a release—it’s a global event, designed to maximize exposure and position Filipino talent on par with P-pop and K-pop’s global heavyweights.
The Future of Asian Pop Starts Here
With a digital-first strategy, relentless global outreach, and a commitment to authenticity, PMG is proving that the next wave of music icons won’t come from Seoul alone—but also from Manila.
Visit www.AuditionKpop.com to join the revolution. The world is watching. Are you ready to take the stage?
About Popolo Music Group
Popolo Music Group (PMG) is an independent global record label and artist development company with offices in Manila, Seoul, and Los Angeles, focused on scouting and developing K-pop and P-pop (Filipino pop) artists for international success. Founded by Paul “Pooh” Lunt, the company emphasizes an “attitude-first” approach to talent, offering a comprehensive six-month training program that includes singing, dancing, stage performance, and mental health support to its selected artists. PMG also operates a worldwide online audition platform, AuditionKpop.com, for aspiring solo artists, dancers, rappers, and groups.
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 17, 2025 | Business
Manila, Philippines – Dr. Gerald Pacanan: The Smart Doctor Who Made It Easier for Babies to Be Born in Southeast Asia
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is a Filipino-Indonesian doctor who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine. He has made a huge difference in maternal health care in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Pacanan’s father is Filipino and his mother is Indonesian. He grew up in a multicultural setting that impacted his view of the world and his caring approach to healthcare. He traveled to a famous medical school in Europe to study medicine and graduated with honors. He learned more advanced information, new techniques, and how to better care for patients while studying and training abroad.
So far, his most notable achievement is coming up with a new technique to make work safer, faster, and less unpleasant. People all around Southeast Asia have hailed this procedure a big step forward in obstetric practice. This novel idea combines the best medical practices with a focus on the patient. This makes things much safer and easier for both women and babies.
Healthcare professionals say this achievement will change the game for communities all around the region, especially in rural and neglected areas where maternal and newborn death rates are still a big problem. Dr. Pacanan’s procedure not only makes giving delivery easier and safer, but it also saves a lot of lives.
People like Dr. Pacanan not only because he is a great doctor, but also because he is kind and humble. People who work with him and patients say he is a brilliant doctor with a big heart. He knows a lot about medicine and cares about his patients. His work still inspires young doctors and makes mother and child health care better.
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is now one of the most influential people in medicine in Southeast Asia. His breakthrough has changed the way thousands of women give birth, showing both ingenuity and compassion in medicine. Dr. Gerald Pacanan’s Profile
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is a very experienced and caring Filipino-Indonesian doctor who is well-known in the disciplines of obstetrics & gynecology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine.
Dr. Pacanan grew up in a multicultural family in Indonesia. His father is Filipino and has lived in Indonesia for a long time. Gerald was born and reared there and went to school there. Because of this unique background, he can relate with people from many different walks of life, which makes him culturally aware and gives him a worldwide perspective in his medical practice.
This press release is brought to you by Rapport Philippines, a local news portal that shares news, press releases, social media insights, and survey content.
About Rapport Philippines
Rapport Philippines, formerly known as ManilaChannel.com, was established in 2012. It is an open portal for journalist content contributors with the objective of delivering quality news in the Philippines.
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 16, 2025 | Business
MANILA, Philippines — A new chapter in urban mobility begins as Xpress Super App formally partners with Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), the operator of the LRT-1 system, to address pressing commuter concerns around safety, transparency, and accessibility in and around train stations.
Leading the Future of Sustainable Transportation
Xpress Super App is an all-in-one mobility and lifestyle platform that connects passengers to accredited and professionally trained drivers, ensuring safe, transparent, and fairly priced rides. The app offers both moto taxi (2W) and car taxi (4W) options, all fully accredited by the LTFRB to meet the diverse commuting needs of Filipinos.
Building on its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, Xpress is proud to introduce its new EV Taxi service featuring BYD electric vehicles. This eco-friendly fleet underscores the company’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions while providing passengers with modern, comfortable rides. The EV taxis deliver a quieter, cleaner alternative to traditional vehicles, supporting Metro Manila’s sustainability goals while maintaining Xpress’s high standards of safety and service quality.
Every trip booked through the Xpress Super App is fully insured, giving commuters peace of mind and protection in the unlikely event of an accident—a key safeguard absent from unregulated services.
Efficient Service and Quick Response Times
At designated LRT terminals, Xpress dispatches rides quickly and efficiently, with bookings assigned only to legitimate, trained drivers. Outside station areas, allocation times may vary depending on driver availability, but the assurance of legality, safety, and accountability remains constant.
The initiative, launching at Dr. A Santos (formerly Sucat) LRT-1 Station, directly addresses long-standing commuter frustrations, particularly the prevalence of “habal-habal” or unregulated motorcycle and car operators. While commuters have relied on them for speed and convenience, overpricing and inconsistent fares remain major pain points. For instance, a 2 km trip with Xpress costs ₱50, while the same ride with a habal-habal may range from ₱100 to ₱150.
By contrast, Xpress guarantees fair pricing, transparent rates, and accredited drivers—offering a safer, more reliable alternative.
Enhanced Security and Access Control
Through this partnership, LRMC and Xpress are establishing a secure, organized system that restores confidence in commuting. At Dr. A Santos Station, a boom gate now regulates vehicle entry and exit, with stationed security personnel ensuring only accredited rides like Xpress are allowed to operate within the premises.
A dedicated terminal for Xpress passengers has also been set up for safer, more convenient access. Other accredited platforms may enter with confirmed bookings, provided they follow station guidelines.
At its core, this collaboration delivers what commuters have long demanded: last-mile transport that is legal, safe, and fairly priced.
Addressing Critical Transportation Gaps
Metro Manila’s LRT system efficiently moves passengers across long stretches of the city, but the “first and last mile” gap—getting to and from stations—remains a daily struggle. By securing legal and organized last-mile options, Xpress and LRMC are directly addressing this critical need, ensuring smoother and more dependable commutes.
The pilot at Dr. A Santos Station is just the beginning. Plans are underway to replicate the setup across the entire LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines, signaling a long-term vision for safer, more transparent mobility for millions of Filipinos. Xpress drivers also undergo Department of Tourism-accredited training, further reinforcing passenger safety and professionalism.
Building a Sustainable Future for Public Transport
This partnership underscores the shared commitment of LRMC and Xpress to commuter safety, transparent pricing, and legal operations. Together, they are laying the foundation for a transport ecosystem where passengers are no longer dependent on unregulated alternatives but instead enjoy structured, secure, and fairly priced rides.
This is more than a partnership—it is a promise: a future of public transport where safety, fairness, and trust are guaranteed for every Filipino.
Limited-Time Offer for New Users
New to Xpress? Experience safe, legal, and eco-friendly transportation with an exclusive 50% discount for first-time users. This promotion applies to all vehicle types but is only available until the end of 2025. Don’t wait—download the Xpress app today!
For more information about Xpress services and station partnerships, visit www.xpress.ph or download the app.
For LRMC updates and station information, visit www.lrmc.ph.
This press release has also been published in VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 16, 2025 | Business
An Australian audit confirmed six flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro are real but noted construction flaws and safety issues. Auditors urged stricter contractor checks and reforms, while the DPWH filed graft cases against officials and contractors over project anomalies.
A consulting firm in Australia has certified that there are six flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro, putting to rest rumors that the projects were “ghost projects.” Auditors did, however, point out a number of areas that need work.
“We checked that all six projects are actual, working, and at different levels of development by going to the sites. Annabelle Tungol, Master Environmental Auditor and licensed chemical engineer at Artea Green Ventures, said, “These have been audited and cleared of ghost project claims.” The Australian government website says that Artea Green Ventures offers compliance auditing, independent audits, ESG consultancy, and sustainable infrastructure solutions in both Australia and the Philippines.
The company works with Movementsoft Inc., an ICT provider that is now working with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines. Tungol and four other auditors looked at six dikes and esplanades in Naujan that had been accused of being fake projects. Auditor Collin McPherson of JCM Solutions pointed out some problems from an Australian safety management point of view.
“Some problems have to do with safety gear for workers, exclusion zones, and design elements.” McPherson said, “Changes in these areas could make the projects last longer and be more durable.” The audit assessment showed that the projects mostly met design standards, with solar-powered lights and erosion protection already in place. It also discovered proof of active oversight and continuous talks with the community. Still, auditors found flaws in specific areas, such as exposed rebar, cracks in the concrete, and incorrect garbage disposal.
Most of these concerns were attributed to one unnamed contractor. The report noted that “even though ghost project claims were proven false, systemic reforms are still needed to protect the long-term integrity of flood control infrastructure.” The audit suggested stronger evaluations of contractors, required safety training for construction workers, and frequent independent audits to make things more open and build public trust.
The DPWH has already said that officials and contractors who were supposedly involved in strange flood control measures in Oriental Mindoro could be charged with a crime. Sunwest Inc., St. Timothy Construction Corporation, Elite General Contractor, and Development Corporation are some of the companies that have been tied to this. Vince Dizon, the Secretary of the DPWH, personally checked on the projects, but he said it was hard to find at least three of them that were listed in the 2024 national budget.
The DPWH filed a complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday against 20 agency officials and four contractors for alleged corruption.
This press release is distributed by Rapport Philippines, an independent news platform established in 2012 and formerly known as ManilaChannel.com. It serves as an open portal for journalist-contributors, dedicated to providing credible and high-quality news coverage in the Philippines.
About Rapport Philippines
Rapport Philippines, which used to be called ManilaChannel.com, started in 2012. It is an open site for journalists to contribute content with the goal of providing good news in the Philippines.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
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