by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 12, 2025 | Business
Robert Conrad Gonzales
Robert Conrad Gonzales, the Chief People Officer of GCash, has been named one of this year’s 100 Most Influential HR Leaders in Southeast Asia. This annual recognition honors top HR executives who have made significant contributions to leadership, innovation, and transformation in the HR industry.
Recipients of this prestigious citation are chosen based on their social media influence, engagement levels, industry awards, community impact, thought leadership, and innovative HR practices. Additionally, the impact of HR initiatives on revenue growth and overall market influence is also considered.
Gonzales believes that artificial intelligence (AI) is meant to enhance employee productivity rather than replace them. As the highest-ranking Human Resources (HR) officer at GCash, Gonzales emphasizes the company’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing people in the era of automation. GCash is the leading finance app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem, recognized as an innovative fintech company that has received several accolades for being one of the best companies to work for.
“HR should champion automation and lead in adapting to technology, including AI, because our people need it, our employees rely on it,” said Gonzales. “If we do this right, our people will become more productive and serve our customers even better. Invest in people, champion leadership development, and embrace innovation. The future belongs to organizations that prioritize their people as their greatest asset.”
Gonzales was recognized for his contributions to the HR landscape when he received an award during the recently held Future Forward Philippines 2025, organized by The Economic Times, the second most widely read English-language business daily after The Wall Street Journal.
Driving business transformation or becoming obsolete in the age of AI?
During the whole day of the event, Gonzales was in the panel discussion titled ‘The Great Debate of HR at a Crossroads: Driving Business Transformation or Becoming Obsolete in the Age of AI?’ He was joined by other HR icons, including Cebu Pacific Air’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Felix Dan Lopez; Globe Telecom Inc.’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Renato Manuel Jiao; and Yasmin Taj, features editor of ETHRWorld/ETEducation, who served as the moderator.
Looking to the future, Gonzales sees artificial intelligence as a game-changer in transforming how organizations approach leadership development. “AI-powered talent identification and predictive analytics will revolutionize how we discover and grow high-potential leaders,” he said. “We’re also leaning into personalized, AI-driven learning paths that adapt to each employee’s growth trajectory because in a market that changes overnight, static development models just don’t cut it.”
GCash is already putting these innovations to work. “We’re expanding our use of AI-driven career development tools and enhancing our leadership programs with real-world business simulations,” Gonzales shared. “This enables us to gauge better readiness, drive engagement, and close skill gaps faster than ever.”
GCash is measuring the effectiveness of its leadership transitions by tracking rates of leadership changes, the retention of high-potential talent, and the business performance following these transitions. To refine its strategies and ensure succession pipelines are prepared for the future, continuous feedback loops and engagement surveys are employed.
Putting people first in an AI-powered workplace
Gonzales stated that GCash’s AI initiatives originate from a strong commitment to both employee well-being and operational excellence. He noted that AI not only enhances customer experience but also contributes to employee happiness by improving their welfare.
“We have a strong commitment to keep our people happy and engaged,” Gonzales said. “Many of our AI innovations are driven by employee needs. For example, team members want faster and more accurate processing of benefits and allowances. That’s why we developed an AI-powered tool called AGA.”
AGA, which stands for Alagang GCash Assistant, is a Gen AI-powered tool that automates and streamlines the processing of employee benefits. From wellness allowances to flexible benefits processing, AGA enables faster and error-free transactions.
Gonzales leaves HR leaders with a pointed message: “HR is no longer a support function but rather a strategic driver of growth. Invest in people. Champion leadership development and embrace innovation in workforce planning. The organizations that do this will be the ones leading tomorrow.”
For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
by | Jun 12, 2025 | Business
Asuene Inc. is pleased to announce a strategic capital and business alliance with Daikin Industries, Ltd., the world’s leading HVAC company. This partnership was formalized through a third-party allocation of new shares as part of Asuene’s Series C2 round second close, bringing the company’s total funding to US $73.7 million.
Through this alliance, the two companies will offer integrated decarbonization services by combining Asuene’s carbon accounting platform “ASUENE” and consultation with Daikin’s energy-saving solutions in HVAC and building management. The partnership will primarily target the North American and Japanese markets, where both companies will jointly accelerate initiatives to support corporate climate action with greater precision and scale.
Background: Addressing Global Needs for Decarbonization and Energy Optimization
As the global push toward decarbonization intensifies, CO2 emissions from buildings account for about 20 to 30 percent of the total worldwide. Optimizing energy use—particularly in air conditioning and lighting—has become a key priority. In Japan, the introduction of GX-ETS (Green Transformation Emissions Trading Scheme) and expanded disclosure requirements under the new SSBJ (Sustainability Standards Board of Japan) are driving companies to act swiftly.
Meanwhile, in the US, states, municipalities, and private companies are advancing climate initiatives from planning to execution. With growing demand for measurable, actionable solutions, there is a particular emphasis on improving energy efficiency in buildings and facilities.
“ASUENE”, carbon accounting platform, is the No.1* market share service in Asia. We had also established its US subsidiary, ASUENE USA, to deliver localized solutions and support companies in meeting regional compliance and ESG goals.
Daikin operates in over 170 countries and is the global leader in HVAC. In the US alone, its HVAC business exceeds US $10 billion in annual revenue and continues to see rapid growth.
*Based on a July 2024 study by Tokyo Shoko Research
Details of the Strategic Partnership: Building Seamless Decarbonization Solutions in Japan and North America
Asuene and Daikin share a common vision: to become globally leading decarbonization solution providers originating from Japan. This capital and business alliance, formalized through Asuene’s Series C2 funding, marks a major step toward that goal.
By integrating Asuene’s platform with Daikin’s HVAC equipment and building management systems, the partnership will provide companies with a seamless, one-stop solution to measure, reduce, and report emissions. This end-to-end approach—from carbon accounting to practical implementation—will help companies reduce energy costs and accelerate their sustainability efforts.
Together, Asuene and Daikin will strengthen their competitiveness and drive innovation across Japan and North America, working toward a more sustainable global society.
Comments from Key Executives
Masaaki Miyatake, Executive Officer, Applied Solutions Business, Daikin Industries, Ltd.
Against the backdrop of global climate action and ESG initiatives, carbon measurement and reduction have become essential. By combining Asuene’s advanced GHG accounting capabilities with Daikin’s energy-efficient HVAC systems and operational expertise, we aim to deliver actionable, one-stop decarbonization solutions. Through this collaboration, we will contribute to building a more sustainable society, both in Japan and worldwide.
Kohei Nishiwada, Founder, CEO & COO, Asuene Inc.
We are deeply honored to enter a strategic capital partnership with Daikin, a global HVAC leader. This is more than an investment—it’s a bold commitment to our shared mission of decarbonization. By combining our strengths, we are fully committed to leading the market not only in Japan but in North America as well. This collaboration marks the beginning of our next chapter, and we are driving it forward with purpose and momentum.
About Daikin Industries, Ltd.
・Company Name: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
・Representative : Naofumi Takenaka, Representative Director, President and COO
・Headquarters: Osaka Umeda Twin Towers South, 1-13-1 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka
・Website: https://www.daikin.com
by | Jun 11, 2025 | Business
Ripple’s legal battle with the SEC, soaring ETF approval odds, and bullish chart signals are putting XRP in the spotlight. Will 2025 mark a historic breakout or a brutal crash? Here’s what investors need to know.
As the legal standoff between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) continues, XRP investors closely monitor key court developments, potential ETF approvals, and bullish technical signals that could define the token’s 2025 trajectory.
With a pivotal deadline looming and speculation intensifying, XRP’s future remains tightly interwoven with regulatory actions and institutional interest.
Legal Crossroads: Ripple vs. SEC Reignites Uncertainty
On June 10, investor focus pivoted back to the SEC v. Ripple case, following fresh court filings and the approach of a critical June 16 deadline.
The SEC must submit a status report to the U.S. Court of Appeals, following the expiration of a 60-day abeyance granted in April.
The legal landscape was further complicated when Judge Analisa Torres denied the SEC’s request for an indicative ruling on the proposed settlement terms.
These terms, jointly filed by Ripple and the SEC, aimed to lift the injunction against XRP institutional sales and reduce the imposed $125 million penalty.
The denial has reintroduced legal ambiguity, prompting concerns that both parties may soon advance with their respective appeals.
Investors had anticipated another SEC request before the deadline, but the agency’s silence has cast doubt on a summer resolution.
Since Judge Torres’ decision, XRP has shown notable volatility, dropping from $2.6553 on May 12 to $2.0607 by June 5, before rebounding to around $2.30.
ETF Momentum: XRP’s Position in the Altcoin ETF Race
The prospect of spot XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has become a focal point for the market. On June 10, Bloomberg Intelligence’s Eric Balchunas predicted a busy summer for altcoin ETFs, with Solana leading the way.
Although XRP is in contention, ongoing litigation has tempered its chances, placing its ETF approval odds behind Litecoin and Solana.
Nevertheless, market sentiment shifted sharply after Polymarket data on June 10 revealed a surge in approval odds for an XRP spot ETF, jumping to 98%, up from 68% in April.
This spike follows a wave of applications from leading firms like Bitwise, Grayscale, Franklin Templeton, and 21Shares, along with the successful May 19 launch of XRP futures ETFs by CME Group, which saw $19 million in first-day volume.
Further bolstering XRP’s institutional appeal, three companies announced plans to allocate over $471 million into XRP treasuries. Notably, Webus International filed a $300 million XRP strategic reserve with the SEC, highlighting growing corporate trust and adoption.
Traditional Finance Meets Crypto: Ripple-Guggenheim Collaboration
Ripple’s expanding influence in traditional finance was also underscored by a new partnership with Guggenheim Treasury Services. Under the deal, Guggenheim will offer its U.S. Treasury-backed commercial paper on the XRP Ledger.
Ripple will invest $10 million into the offering, which features customized maturities of up to 397 days.
This marks a significant move toward the tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs), a growing trend on Wall Street. With over $7 billion in tokenized U.S. Treasurys already issued, spearheaded by BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Fidelity, the partnership strengthens XRP’s position in the burgeoning RWA market.
Technical Signals: Bullish Setups Hint at Explosive Upside
While regulatory developments weigh heavily on XRP, chart analysts are growing increasingly bullish. Crypto analyst JD (@jaydee_757) identified a hidden bullish divergence on the two-week Stochastic RSI, drawing parallels with XRP’s 2017-2018 market cycle. Back then, a similar setup led to a 20x rally.
JD noted that XRP has broken out from a multi-year symmetrical triangle originating in 2018, signaling a potential parabolic move.
He projects a price surge toward $17, followed by a dramatic correction, possibly crashing below $1, echoing the 94% drop seen post-2017 rally.
Market analyst Egrag Crypto shares a similar view, forecasting XRP to hit between $20 and $27 in 2025 before potentially retracing to around $3 during a bearish phase.
His “Guardian Arch” analysis leverages the 21-week EMA and 33-week SMA, along with the presence of a bullish flag on the monthly chart.
Price Outlook: Resistance, Support, and What’s Next
On June 10, XRP closed at $2.3064, down 0.66% on the day, slightly underperforming the broader crypto market. Currently, XRP trades at $2.2894, recovering from recent lows around $2.06 and up 9.7% over the past few days.
A move above $2.35 could spark a climb toward resistance at $2.6553 and eventually the $3.00 mark.
Surpassing this barrier may confirm the start of a parabolic uptrend with potential targets beyond $25. Conversely, failure to hold support could expose XRP to downside risk near $1.93, the 200-day EMA level.
Final Thoughts: Hope and Caution in Equal Measure
With legal clarity still pending and ETF hopes surging, XRP stands at a critical juncture. The growing integration of Ripple with institutional finance, combined with bullish chart patterns, presents a compelling narrative for XRP bulls. Yet, historical precedent and unresolved litigation caution against overexuberance.
Whether XRP fulfills its projected rise to double digits or falls victim to another dramatic correction, one thing is clear, 2025 will be a defining year for the cryptocurrency, both in court and on the charts.
by | Jun 11, 2025 | Business
As a leading enterprise in the field of heavy-lift unmanned helicopters in China, China Flightwin-Innovation Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Flightwin”) is making its debut at the Indo Defence Expo & Forum held from June 11 to 14 at the Jakarta Convention Center in Indonesia, highlighting three star UAV products that represent its technological prowess: FWH-3000 tandem rotor unmanned helicopter, FWH-1500 ton-class unmanned helicopter, and FWH-300 unmanned helicopter. These three UAVs, with their outstanding performance parameters and mature industry solutions, have drawn wide attention from overseas users.
A Three-Model Matrix Showcasing Benchmark Technologies in Heavy-Lift UAVs
The three unmanned helicopters exhibited by Flightwin cover a payload range from 50 kg to 1000 kg, fully demonstrating the company’s full-scenario logistics transport capabilities with heavy-lift UAVs:
· FWH-3000 Tandem Rotor Unmanned Helicopter: As the largest payload unmanned helicopter platform worldwide, it adopts a tandem dual-rotor design, with a maximum take-off weight of 2300 kg and a maximum mission payload of 1000 kg. Its internal cabin space reaches 4.2 cubic meters, capable of simultaneously carrying two 500 kg standard pallets or six injured personnel. With a flight endurance of up to 5 hours and wind resistance up to scale 7, it can perform cargo delivery and medical rescue missions in extreme environments such as plateaus, deserts, and remote islands.
· FWH-1500 Ton-Class Unmanned Helicopter: A flagship product of Flightwin, it has a maximum take-off weight of 1000 kg, a maximum payload of 300 kg and the service ceiling of 6500 m. The model has proven its reliability in numerous real-world operations at home and abroad, including nighttime cross-mountain material delivery during the July 2023 flood rescue in Beijing, high-altitude delivery at 5200 meters, and multi-island cross-sea transportation tasks.
· FWH-300 Unmanned Helicopter: With a take-off weight of 220 kg and maximum payload of 50 kg, it can be equipped with electro-optical pods, firefighting bombs, and other payloads, making it suitable for tactical reconnaissance, disaster area broadcasting, and emergency material airdrop.
Full-Scope Applications, Deepening Presence in the Southeast Asian Market
Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Beijing, Flightwin is one of the few companies in China with full-industry-chain R&D and manufacturing capabilities for unmanned helicopters. Its products are widely used in emergency rescue, forest firefighting, and cargo delivery, and have achieved commercial deployment in multiple countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
At this Indo Defence Expo & Forum, Flightwin is focusing on showcasing solutions tailored to the region’s multi-island terrain and tropical rainforest climate, such as:
· The take-off and landing capability of the FWH-1500 meets the cargo delivery needs of offshore oil platforms;
· The large payload of the FWH-3000 allows rapid response for inter-island and remote area cargo transportation and medical rescue;
· Inspection and rapid suppression of forest fires with UAV extinguishing bombs dropping;
· The entire product line has passed rigorous high-temperature and high-humidity adaptation testing, ensuring stable operation in tropical climates.
Repeated International Recognition, Global Attention to Its Technological Strength
Flightwin has long been advancing its internationalization. At the 2024 UMEX exhibition in Abu Dhabi, its full product range attracted hundreds of international clients for discussions.
“This exhibition is an important opportunity for us to expand into the Southeast Asian market,” said Chen Chong, VP of Flightwin. “We look forward to using this platform to match China’s independently developed heavy-lift UAV technologies with the real needs of Indonesia and surrounding countries, promoting deeper UAV application in fields such as cargo delivery, forest fire prevention, and emergency rescue.”
by | Jun 10, 2025 | Business
Bitcoin surges past $108K in June 2025 amid whale trades, institutional inflows, and macroeconomic momentum. Analysts predict a new all-time high within weeks, possibly targeting $150K by year-end.
Bitcoin (BTC) continues to dominate headlines as its price surges past $108,000, buoyed by bullish macroeconomic signals, institutional adoption, and aggressive leveraged positions by so-called “whale” traders.
Analysts now anticipate that Bitcoin could break its all-time high (ATH) of $111,970 within the next one to two weeks, with some even projecting a path toward $150,000 by year-end.
Whale Trader Makes $54.5 Million Bet on BTC Rally
A newly funded crypto whale wallet, identified as 0x1f25, made one of the most aggressive trades of 2025, opening a 511.5 BTC position on decentralized exchange Hyperliquid using 20x leverage and $10 million USDC in margin.
The entry point for this high-stakes bet was $106,538 per BTC, with a liquidation threshold at $88,141, putting approximately $54.5 million on the line.
While the trader is already up over $11,000 in paper profits, their bold entry follows in the wake of large liquidations faced by other traders like James Wynn, who previously lost over $124 million in leveraged BTC trades but remains active in the space.
Macroeconomic Momentum: US-China Talks Fuel Risk Appetite
Bitcoin’s rally aligns with renewed optimism from US-China trade negotiations held in London.
Reports suggest the two superpowers may ease tech export restrictions and improve access to rare earth minerals, a development that sent US equities and risk-on assets, including Bitcoin, higher.
Analysts note similarities between Bitcoin’s current breakout pattern and recent moves in gold and the S&P 500.
Ted Pillows, a leading crypto strategist, emphasized that if BTC can overcome the $110K resistance level, a decisive breakout could materialize swiftly.
Institutional Inflows Hit Record Highs
Institutional interest is at an all-time high. In May alone, Bitcoin ETFs recorded $2.8 billion in net inflows, with total ETF assets under management now exceeding $122 billion.
This unprecedented demand has created a strong price floor, with large holders consistently buying dips, a traditionally bullish signal.
At the same time, Ethereum, XRP, and Dogecoin have also shown robust momentum, riding the wave of improved investor sentiment and increasing institutional participation.
Bitcoin Treasury Companies on the Rise
One of the more fascinating trends in crypto finance is the rise of bitcoin treasury companies, publicly traded firms that accumulate Bitcoin as a strategic reserve.
Among them is former budget hotel operator Metaplanet, which has transformed into a crypto-holding entity. “This is a one-way train,” said Metaplanet executive Dylan LeClair. “Nothing is going to stop this.”
The most iconic example is Strategy, which owns 582,000 BTC, nearly 3% of the total supply, more than any other company or even national government. Its shares have skyrocketed by over 3,000% in five years, eclipsing even Bitcoin’s own gains of roughly 1,000%.
As of June 2025, 61 publicly traded firms (excluding miners and ETFs) now collectively hold large amounts of BTC, with half of them averaging a purchase price of $90,000.
However, analysts warn that Bitcoin’s volatility could pressure these companies into selling during downturns to cover debts.
Crypto Stocks Soar on Altcoin Announcements
While Bitcoin remains the centerpiece, companies announcing plans to hold Ethereum or Solana have seen triple-digit stock gains. SharpLink Gaming saw its shares rise 400% after revealing plans to purchase up to $425 million in Ethereum.
Likewise, Upexi’s stock jumped over 300% after announcing a $100 million acquisition plan for Solana.
Technical Outlook: Bitcoin Eyes $150K, but Resistance Looms
Bitcoin recently tested $110,500 before retreating slightly, hovering around $109,500 at the time of writing. This follows its strongest single-day gain in over a month, driven by ETF flows and rising confidence among institutional investors.
However, technical resistance remains near the ATH of $111,970, set on May 22. Analysts believe any pullbacks toward the $100,000 or $102,000 zones should be seen as buying opportunities, while a drop below $92,000 could reverse current bullish momentum.
According to Bitfinex analysts, the lack of a clear catalyst could make BTC vulnerable to short-term corrections. Long-term holders who accumulated during Q1’s lows near $78,000 are now facing a decision: hold or distribute as the price flirts with record highs.
If Bitcoin successfully reclaims and holds above its ATH, $1.08 billion in short positions stand to be liquidated, further fueling upside volatility.
Fed Decision and Trump’s Trade Policy Could Be Key Catalysts
Looking ahead, the next Federal Reserve interest rate decision, scheduled for June 18, is expected to play a pivotal role. A rate cut would likely serve as a bullish trigger for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
However, ongoing uncertainty over President Trump’s tariff policies may continue to cloud market sentiment.
“The biggest threat to bulls right now is that nothing changes,” said Pav Hundal, lead analyst at Swyftx. “The cycle of endless tariff ultimatums is causing hesitation.”
Conclusion: Bitcoin Bulls Remain Cautiously Optimistic
The road to a new all-time high is paved with optimism, risk, and macroeconomic complexity. Between bold whale traders, rising corporate adoption, and historic institutional inflows, Bitcoin’s ascent to $150,000 is no longer a fringe forecast.
Still, with macro catalysts yet to fully materialize, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether Bitcoin breaks free or falls back into consolidation.
For now, the crypto market watches, and waits, as history appears ready to be rewritten once again.
by | Jun 10, 2025 | Business
UNSW leads the way for Australian universities, transitioning to renewable electric energy across all Sydney residential colleges. The replacement of outdated gas systems is a key milestone as the University strides toward its net zero emissions goal.
UNSW Sydney has ditched gas and adopted clean, renewable electric power for all student accommodation sites, kitchens, childcare, sports and hospitality facilities at the Kensington and Paddington campuses.
The current upgrade prevents around 700 tonnes of CO2 emissions per yearUniversity-wide electrification due by 2030UNSW is on track toachieve net zero by 2050.
Better facilities, healthier environments
At UNSW’s Goldstein Hall in Kensington – it’s cooking with gas, no more! The kitchen serves more than 1,300 meals daily. Senior Manager of Energy and Utilities at UNSW, Jose Bilbao, said the now fully electrified commercial kitchen had revolutionised operations.
“It has been absolutely rewarding seeing the kitchen before and after,” he said. “The fryers don’t produce fumes when we’re using them, so it’s a lot healthier here, much better air quality, it’s cooler and we’re using less energy.”
Head Chef at Goldstein Hall, Eve Wannasorn, said the change from a gas-powered to electric kitchen had been positive for both staff and students. “Making a stew for around 300 people used to take about three hours. Now it’s around 45 minutes,” she said. “The food tastes nice. It’s fresher. And chefs don’t need to waste time changing oil manually. It means the quality of the food is much better.”
Looking ahead to net zero
UNSW is leading the charge to electrification for Australian universities. This first phase of UNSW’s electrification program has reduced UNSW’s emissions from natural gas by an estimated 10%. Across all UNSW Sydney colleges, gas-powered systems have been replaced with:
34 heat pump-operated dryers and 34 washers31 induction cooktops and 10 electric barbecuesNew high-efficiency electric commercial kitchen appliances such as fryers, pressurised Bratt pans, and dishwashing systems8 domestic hot water heat pumps, with a total heating capacity of 400 kW, and 18 hot water tanks (total of more than 12,000 litres of hot water), replacing more than 20 instant hot water gas units.
All electrical amenities are powered by renewable solar energy, thanks to the University’s on-site solar system and the Sunraysia Solar Farm through a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). UNSW is expected to save 1.25 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over the 15-year term of agreement.
Chief Property Officer at UNSW, Timothy Beattie, said the transition had set an example for the broader Australian industry. “Electrification is not only possible, and critical to achieve the Paris agreement, but also desired as it provides so many direct and indirect benefits, like better air quality, operational efficiencies, and reduction of fugitive emissions,” he said.
“This is an important investment for the University and the community. Once the program is completed, we’ll save around 155,000 GJ of gas per year. That’s like removing more than 5,300 cars from the road.”
UNSW is one of the world’s leading universities for environmental and social sustainability, ranked 12th globally.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 10, 2025 | Food & Beverage
This June, The Manila Hotel invites guests to enjoy a range of memorable dining experiences, including lavish buffets, elegant set menus, seasonal promotions, and exclusive discounts.
Festive Feasts at Café Ilang-Ilang
Celebrate two special holidays at Café Ilang-Ilang: Philippine Independence Day on June 12 and Manila Day on June 24. Enjoy an enhanced Filipino buffet featuring traditional favorites that pay homage to the country’s rich culinary heritage. Regular buffet rates apply.
Additionally, join us for Father’s Day on June 15, where you can indulge in a global culinary spread perfect for the whole family. Dine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and fathers celebrating on this day will receive complimentary sugar cookies as a token of appreciation. Regular buffet rates apply.
Champagne Room’s June Highlights
Create lasting memories this Father’s Day with a specially curated set menu available from June 13 to 15. Priced at ₱5,980 nett per set, this dining experience includes:
- Parma Ham & Burrata Cheese
- Lobster Bisque
- Oven Roasted Sea Bass on Zucchini Risotto
- Mango Sorbet
- Grilled Black Angus Rib Eye
- Baked Alaska Terrine
Additionally, the meal is complemented with macarons, your choice of coffee or tea, and paired with two glasses of Cuvée sparkling wine. This offer is valid for tables of four to ten guests. Reservations are recommended.
Throughout June, cool down with refreshing mint-infused cocktails at the Champagne Room. Choose from revitalizing options such as Mint Julep, Mojito, or Southside, each priced at ₱420 nett per glass.
June Delights at the Lobby Lounge and Tap Room
Celebrate national pride with classic Filipino flavors at the Lobby Lounge and Tap Room! From June 12 to 24, between 12:00 noon and 6:00 PM, guests can enjoy 50% off selected dishes, including Sinigang, Adobo, Kare-Kare, and more. This offer is valid for a minimum of two and a maximum of four orders per table. Terms and conditions apply.
From June 9 to 16, fathers can enjoy a complimentary glass of draft beer with every order of the U.S. Beef Burger, available from 12:00 noon to 6:00 PM. Terms and conditions apply.
Warm up during the rainy season with a comforting bowl of Laksa, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for gloomy days. It will be available from June 15 to 30, between 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
In-Room Dining Set Menu
For guests who desire a more private and intimate dining experience, The Manila Hotel offers a special in-room dining set menu for two. Priced at a discounted rate of ₱4,980 nett (regularly ₱6,225), this exclusive dining offer includes the following highlights:
- Pacific Rim Caesar Salad
- Baked Oyster with Herb Butter Crust
- Surf and Turf
- Spanish Idiazabal Cheese
- Fresh Fruit Platter
- Pralines and Macarons
- Bread and Butter
- A bottle of Rothbury Estate Cuvée Sparkling Wine
This offer is available throughout June from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Please note that blackout dates, terms, and conditions apply.
Experience meaningful celebrations and unforgettable dining at The Manila Hotel throughout the month. For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email re************@************el.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated next to Kilometer Zero (0), the point where the City of Manila begins. It is within walking distance of well-known landmarks, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museum. Renowned for its rich history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel has been the preferred choice for distinguished guests since its establishment in 1912.
The hotel boasts over 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three ballrooms, providing a range of venues for any event. Guests can indulge in five-star relaxation and wellness experiences at the Manila Hotel Spa, enjoy the adult and children’s pools, and stay active at the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is also home to the Heritage Museum, which showcases priceless artifacts and narrates its illustrious past. Additionally, it features an art gallery offering a glimpse into contemporary art through the perspectives of various artists.
Dining options at The Manila Hotel include six unique outlets, each providing a distinctive culinary experience:
- Café Ilang-Ilang: A favorite for its extensive selection of international buffet delights.
- Champagne Room: Renowned for its Old European-style fine dining, this is considered the most romantic dining room in Manila, offering exquisite European cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Tap Room: An Old English pub-inspired venue, perfect for enjoying an evening of live music.
- Lobby Lounge: Ideal for casual dining, aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or relaxed meetings.
- Red Jade: A fine dining restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine.
- Delicatessen: Offers the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.
The Manila Hotel promises a truly memorable experience with its exceptional amenities and services.
by | Jun 8, 2025 | Business
Introducing an inclusive AI companion designed to support Muslims through halal validation, mindful learning, companion, a friend and heartful conversations—MuslimAi offers warmth where tech often feels cold. Available at https://www.muslimai.ai/
Singapore, MuslimAi introduces a new kind of digital spiritual experience—an Islamic AI companion designed to bring empathy, understanding, and faith-based reflections to the Muslim community in today’s digital world.
Founded by Nurana Indah Paramita, widely known as Mita, MuslimAi was born out of a desire to provide a safe, warm, and relatable space for Muslims navigating daily life in an increasingly digital era.
“MuslimAi isn’t just a place to ask questions. It’s a presence. A listening friend. A keeper of the soul,” Mita shares.
✨ Key Features:
AI Mindful Learning: guidance for Muslim with Qur’anic values
Islamic AI Companion: characters that offer thoughtful dialogue and spiritual reflection
Halal Check AI: product halal verification using AI NLP and open-source data
Whether you’re feeling lost, lonely, or simply curious about Islam—MuslimAi is here for you.
This platform is not only for Muslims, but also for anyone seeking warmth, understanding, and a safe space to explore Islam with dignity.
Powered by AI, but guided by mercy, MuslimAi is a companion—not a judge. A friend in your pocket, built with love and guarded with responsibility.
All content is moderated and curated with care to ensure it reflects the heart of Islamic values—rahmah, adab, and sincerity.
MuslimAi is not here to preach.
It’s here to stay. As a friend. In your pocket. When the world gets quiet.
by | Jun 8, 2025 | Business
Introducing an inclusive AI companion designed to support Muslims through halal validation, mindful learning, companion, a friend and heartful conversations—MuslimAi offers warmth where tech often feels cold. Available at https://www.muslimai.ai/
Malaysia, MuslimAi introduces a new kind of digital spiritual experience—an Islamic AI companion designed to bring empathy, understanding, and faith-based reflections to the Muslim community in today’s digital world.
Founded by Nurana Indah Paramita, widely known as Mita, MuslimAi was born out of a desire to provide a safe, warm, and relatable space for Muslims navigating daily life in an increasingly digital era.
“MuslimAi isn’t just a place to ask questions. It’s a presence. A listening friend. A keeper of the soul,” Mita shares.
✨ Key Features:
AI Mindful Learning: guidance for Muslim with Qur’anic values
Islamic AI Companion: characters that offer thoughtful dialogue and spiritual reflection
Halal Check AI: product halal verification using AI NLP and open-source data
Whether you’re feeling lost, lonely, or simply curious about Islam—MuslimAi is here for you.
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by | Jun 6, 2025 | Business
Manila, Philippines — A new exposé uncovers one of Southeast Asia’s most audacious frauds: the fabricated monarchy and trillion-dollar deception orchestrated by Fuad Kiram and his late advisor Omar Kiram. Posing as royalty of the defunct Sulu Sultanate, the duo conducted a sprawling two-decade scam that blended fake titles, imaginary gold, and staged diplomacy to attract money, influence, and international attention.
Fuad Kiram, a self-declared Sultan discredited by legitimate heirs and listed as a terrorist by Malaysia, led an elaborate enterprise with Omar—a Filipino-Australian businessman who adopted the Kiram name to feign noble descent. Together, they sold fraudulent knighthoods and ambassadorships under the fictitious “Royal Hashemite Sultanate of Sulu and Sabah,” misled investors with tales of $3 trillion in hidden wartime gold, and staged pseudo-royal ceremonies across the globe.
Their exploits culminated in a controversial $14.92 billion international arbitration award against Malaysia over the historical Sabah lease—now under appeal and widely condemned as the pinnacle of their con. Legal experts warn that this legal maneuver, funded in part through questionable financial backers, represents a disturbing manipulation of the global justice system.
The victims? The Tausug people and the legacy of a historic sultanate now tarnished by deceit.
With the next arbitration hearing set for July 7, the report calls for urgent international scrutiny—and accountability.
Omar Kiram and Fuad Kiram, pictured together in 2006.
Image Source: Royal Sulu
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