University of Nueva Caceres Breaks Ground on Learning and Innovation Center in Naga City

 

 NAGA CITY, Philippines — The University of Nueva Caceres has formally broken ground on its new Learning and Innovation Center, a multi story academic facility designed to support technology enabled education, research collaboration, and industry aligned learning for students in the Bicol Region.

Naga City, Camarines Sur - March 07, 2026 - NAGA CITY, Philippines — February 12, 2026 — University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) held the groundbreaking and cornerstone-laying ceremony for its new Learning and Innovation Center (LINC), a multi-story academic facility designed to support technology-enabled, collaborative, and industry-aligned education in the Bicol Region. 

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the LINC Building is part of UNC’s long-term academic infrastructure investment strategy to strengthen higher education in the Philippines and enhance learning environments for future generations of students.

Strategic Investment in Academic Infrastructure University President Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya said the project reflects the institution’s response to evolving global education demands.

“The LINC Building represents our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving and technology-driven world,” Dr. Lauraya said. “This facility is not simply an expansion of space, but a strategic investment in the quality, relevance, and accessibility of higher education in our region.”

The new center will feature: 

Technology-enabled classroomsFlexible and collaborative learning spacesResearch and innovation hubsInterdisciplinary engagement areasIndustry-aligned instructional facilities 

University officials said the building is designed to encourage experiential learning, research productivity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration among students and faculty. 

Institutional and Industry Support 

The ceremony was attended by members of the UNC Board of Trustees and executives from iPeople Inc., the university’s education management partner. 

Present during the event were: 

Mr. Alfredo I. Ayala, President of iPeople Inc., Chairman of the UNC Board of Trustees, and UNC’s 3rd President Ms. Gema O. Cheng, Executive Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of iPeopleMs. Yoda Buyco, Chief Marketing Officer of iPeopleMs. Shirley Q. Earnheart, Treasurer of iPeople 

Mr. Ayala emphasized the broader educational impact of the project. 

“Investing in academic infrastructure ensures that institutions like UNC remain responsive to industry needs and global standards,” Ayala said. “The LINC Building strengthens the university’s role in developing highly skilled graduates for regional and national growth.”

Local Government and Community Engagement 

Also in attendance was UNC’s Most Outstanding Alumni Awardee, Hon. Maria Leonor G. Robredo, Mayor of Naga City, along with representatives from local government, business sectors, and media organizations.

Mayor Robredo underscored the importance of institutional development within the city. “Universities play a vital role in regional progress,” she said. “Projects like the LINC Building contribute to economic activity, innovation, and opportunities for young people in Naga City and the wider Bicol Region.”

Cornerstone Ceremony and Blessing 

The event included a ceremonial blessing led by Rev. Fr. Danilo T. Imperial, followed by the laying of the cornerstone, symbolizing the formal commencement of construction. 

University officials noted that the ceremony marked both a structural milestone and a reaffirmation of the institution’s mission-driven foundation.

Advancing Higher Education in the Philippines 

As higher education institutions adapt to digital transformation and interdisciplinary learning models, UNC stated that the LINC Building is intended to serve as a central hub for research development, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community engagement programs. 

The facility is expected to support expanded academic offerings and strengthen UNC’s position as a key contributor to educational advancement in Southern Luzon. 

Construction is scheduled for phased development, with completion targeted for 2027. 

About the University of Nueva Caceres 

Founded in 1948, the University of Nueva Caceres is a private higher education institution based in Naga City, Philippines. UNC offers basic education, undergraduate, and graduate programs across multiple disciplines and is committed to accessible, industry-relevant education, research development, and community engagement in the Bicol Region.

About University of Nueva Caceres

University of Nueva Caceres is a private, non-sectarian educational institution located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines. Founded in 1948 by Jaime Hernandez Sr., it is recognized as the first and oldest university in Southern Luzon and a leading provider of basic and higher education in the Bicol Region. The university offers a comprehensive range of academic programs from pre-school, elementary, junior high school, and senior high school to undergraduate and graduate degrees across multiple disciplines including business, engineering, education, arts and sciences, and law. Today, the institution operates under iPeople Inc., an education management group backed by Ayala Corporation and Yuchengco Group of Companies. The university continues to focus on delivering industry-relevant education, research development, and community engagement while preparing students to become globally competitive professionals. UNC serves thousands of students across its academic programs and remains a key contributor to educational, economic, and social development in Naga City and the wider Bicol Region.

It’s Official: KasKasan Buddies Partners With the Credit Card Association of the Philippines

 

KasKasan Buddies and the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) have formally partnered to expand financial education and responsible credit card use across the country

Big news, KKBuddies!

We just made it official with the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP).

We signed a partnership with CCAP today, March 6, 2026, in RCBC, 29th Floor Robinsons Equitable Tower, ADB ave. cor. Poveda, Ortigas, with key people from both our teams in the room. It was a full-circle moment for us, and one we're really glad to finally share with you.

Who Is CCAP?

CCAP is the official association of credit card companies and banks in the Philippines. Most of the credit cards you use today are issued by CCAP member banks. When it comes to how credit cards work, what protections you have as a cardholder, and how Filipinos are educated about using credit responsibly, CCAP plays a big role in all of that.

For us, this partnership means the information we share with our community now has an even stronger foundation behind it. More accurate, more complete, and directly connected to the people who know the credit card industry best.

What We're Working On Together

So, what does this actually look like in practice? Here's what we and CCAP are actually building together:

✔ Educational videos featuring official CCAP representatives, so you get clear and accurate information straight from people who know what they're talking about.

✔ Meaningful financial literacy sessions every year, open to Filipinos who want to learn more about using credit cards wisely and getting the most out of them.

✔ Improved learning materials, taking what CCAP already has and making it easier for everyday Filipinos to read, understand, and use.

✔ Campaigns on responsible credit card use, spreading the message that a credit card, when used well, can be one of the most helpful financial tools you have.

✔ Community programs and activities that bring our reach together with CCAP's network, all aimed at helping more Filipinos make better money decisions.

Who Were There

Signing on behalf of CCAP were Chairman Rolando P. Ebreo, President Geraldine C. Liggayu, and Executive Director Alex G. Ilagan. Our CEO and Co-Founder Joel Khristopher Cabugos and Corporate Secretary and Co-Founder Jacques Yves (Jax) Reyes signed on our behalf.

Also present from CCAP were Marketing and PR Committee Chairs Gen Rodriguez and Alvin Marana, Vice Chair Tovi De Leon, Secretary Ruth Ramirez, and Marketing and PR Representative Leslie Javier of RCBC.

From our team: Chief Marketing Officer Joram Joseph Bonus, Senior Business Development Executive Carl Munsayac, Head of Media Jayvee Mambalo, Digital Content Producer Raphael Lawrence Marabut, and Data Analyst Tricia Daguio.

What They Had to Say

Joel Khristopher Cabugos, our CEO and Co-Founder:

“We’re very honored. This is part of our advocacy and purpose. It just amplifies and validates the campaign and objective of KasKasan Buddies. Moving forward, we’ll be more aggressive in doing financial literacy and financial wellness campaigns — knowing that it’s a big responsibility for a community with this size.”

Joel also shared that upcoming programs will prioritize reaching Filipinos outside Metro Manila, covering key cities and provinces, with a special focus on the youth.

“That’s something we see will make a lot of impact,” he said.

Jax Reyes, our Corporate Secretary and Co-Founder:

"This is really about pushing financial literacy — especially the proper use of credit cards and breaking the stigma that credit cards are bad. Because if used correctly, they're genuinely beneficial to a lot of Filipinos."

Jax also highlighted the importance of amplifying CCAP's existing programs, which he believes more Filipinos need to know about.

"They already have programs that are beneficial to credit card holders in the country," he said. "We want to help more people find out about them."

Rolando P. Ebreo, Chairman, CCAP:

"Today's signing reflects a shared commitment to expand financial education through relevant, accessible, and engaging platforms. Through this partnership, CCAP and KasKasan Buddies will work together on content, learning sessions, and initiatives that empower more Filipinos to use credit responsibly and confidently."

Chairman Ebreo also noted that the collaboration directly supports BSP's push to advance financial inclusion, making sure that knowledge, opportunity, and access reach more communities across the country, not just those in major cities.

Geraldine C. Liggayu, President, CCAP:

“We’re very thankful that this partnership has finally come true. This has been endorsed not just by CCAP but also by BSP and schemes. We’re really looking forward to it! We’re hoping we can educate and reach more Filipinos — not just on responsible credit card use, but on personal finance as a whole. Na hindi sila matakot gumamit ng credit card at maintindihan nila kung paano i-manage ang kanilang personal finances na hindi sila malulubog sa utang. Yun man lang — in that manner, makatulong kami to uplift the lives of the Filipinos.”

What This Means for Our Community

We started as a Facebook group where Filipinos could share tips on getting more out of their credit cards. Today, we're 1.2 million members strong.

Partnering with CCAP connects our community directly with the people who set the standards for credit cards and look after cardholders in the Philippines. And with BSP part of this conversation too, what we're working on together feeds into something bigger: a national push to help every Filipino feel more confident about their money.

We're genuinely excited about what comes next. More programs, more resources, and more ways for our community to learn together. We'll keep you posted every step of the way.

Stay Updated

The best financial tips, latest promos, news promos, resources, and everything coming out of this partnership goes straight to our community first. Follow us and CCAP on social media so you never miss an update.

🌐 KasKasan Buddies on Facebook

📱 Download the KasKasan Buddies App: App Store & GooglePlay

We'll update this article as more details become available. For the latest, follow us and CCAP on our official social media pages.

About KasKasan Buddies Ventures Corporation

KasKasan Buddies Ventures Corp (KKB) is the Philippines' #1 finance community and digital platform. We serve as the premier digital avenue for secure credit card applications, exclusive promos, and comprehensive financial guides.

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Join PetroSync API Training for World-Class Standards

 

 Join PetroSync API Training to strengthen your oil & gas team’s compliance, technical skills, and operational excellence with globally recognized standards like API 510 and API 570.

PetroSync announces its professional API Training programs designed to strengthen technical competence, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability for oil & gas professionals through internationally recognized standards.

In today’s energy industry, compliance is not merely a technical requirement — it is a strategic necessity. Companies operating in asset-intensive environments must ensure their inspection teams and engineers understand global standards such as API 510 and API 570 to maintain safety, asset integrity, and regulatory alignment.

Strategic B2B Training for the Oil & Gas Industry

PetroSync’s training programs are developed specifically for the B2B oil & gas sector, where learning initiatives require alignment with business objectives and operational needs.

Key benefits include:

Technical competence development aligned with international standards

Practical application for real operational environments

Structured consultation to match company asset portfolios and inspection requirements

Training decisions are typically evaluated by managers and directors who assess technical relevance, workforce readiness, and return on investment. PetroSync facilitates technical discussions prior to registration to ensure alignment between corporate goals and training outcomes.

This approach ensures professional development is not generic — but strategically tailored.

Technical Consultation and Corporate Approval Process

Before program participation, PetroSync engages organizations through structured technical consultation to identify competency gaps and training priorities.

The process generally includes:

Technical needs assessment

Alignment discussion with engineering and inspection teams

Internal budget evaluation

Corporate approval and formal registration

Programs such as API 510 Training are designed to support professionals responsible for pressure vessel inspection and integrity management. These programs provide practical insights combined with structured preparation for certification.

By implementing a consultation-driven approach, companies can streamline approval processes while ensuring training investments deliver measurable impact.

Strengthening Industry Standards Through Certification-Based Training

Organizations operating in oil & gas must continuously improve inspection accuracy, risk assessment capability, and compliance documentation.

Through structured API training, professionals gain the ability to:

Apply standardized inspection methodologies

Interpret code requirements correctly

Improve risk-based decision-making

Strengthen audit readiness and technical documentation

Investment in professional certification training supports long-term asset reliability and operational excellence.

PetroSync remains committed to elevating industry standards through world-class technical training programs tailored for industry professionals and corporate teams.

About PetroSync Global Internasional

PetroSync was established in Singapore in 2010 and began its expansion into Indonesia in 2013. To this day, PetroSync has become a leading oil and gas training provider, with a participant passing rate as high as 90%.

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Value Meal Add-On After Sundown at Karaoke Manekineko

 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – After-work plans just got an upgrade! Whether you’re belting out power ballads or vibing to the latest hits, Karaoke Manekineko is turning up the fun with its exciting new After Dusk Promotion.

From 18 February to 19 March 2026, karaoke enthusiasts can elevate their evenings for just RM10.00++ extra on their karaoke bill. The offer includes one dish from a specially curated menu featuring a mix of local favourites, like Ayam Masak Lemak, and international classics, such as Tokyo Shoyu Ramen and Spaghetti Bolognese—perfect for enjoying between songs.

Available at all outlets nationwide from 7:00 PM until closing, this limited-time promotion makes your evening karaoke session even more irresistible.

Ready to grab the mic and a meal? For more details or to find your nearest outlet, visit Karaoke Manekineko Malaysia’s official website or follow their social media channels for the latest updates.

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd Koshidaka International was incorporated in 2021 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a full subsidiary of Koshidaka Holdings. The company serves as a management consultancy arm for the Karaoke Manekineko operations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Karaoke Manekineko is a friendly and safe environment for Karaoke that is designed to accommodate a diverse range of customers, from families with young children to groups of friends and corporate teams.

Manekineko International Karaoke Competition Crowns Its Grand Winner

  

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, 7th February 2026 – The Manekineko International Karaoke Championship Grand Finals was held at Karaoke Manekineko Malaysia’s Berjaya Times Square outlet.

During the qualifiers, contestants from Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia submitted their entries, and the shortlisted candidates were invited to compete in the semi-finals held in their respective countries. From over a thousand entries received during the qualifiers, nine outstanding performers advanced to the Grand Finals.

For the Grand Finals, the team at Karaoke Manekineko invited a distinguished panel of judges:

· Ms. Akiko Nishio

Managing Director of A to Z Language Center, Ms. Nishio has judged several competitions related to Japanese culture in Malaysia.

· Mr. Takeshi Kuramochi

Managing Director of INSPION GROUP, a collective of studios that produces songs, sound arrangement, and music composition for popular video game titles such as Smash Bros., Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Persona series, Elden Ring and many more.

· Mr. Guess Yang

Professional musician, songwriter, arranger, producer, recording and mixing engineer who has provided songs for artists like Michael Wong 光良, Victor Wong品冠, Angela Chang张韶涵, Lui Fang, Huang Jia Qian and China doll.

· Mr. Mohamad Fareed bin Marzuki

Professional degree in music. He has been in teaching music in Malaysia’s schools, nurturing young aspiring talents.

Each finalist delivered an exceptional performance, captivating both the judges and the audience with their talent and stage presence. After much anticipation and careful deliberation by the judging panel, the winners were announced as follows:

Champion: Ms. Zahra Vania Ardhani Sulistyo

Ms. Zahra was awarded the Grand Prize of RM3,000.00, along with a return ticket to Japan sponsored by ANA. The prize was presented to the Champion in person by Mr. Tamura, General Manager of the ANA Malaysia Office.

 

1st runner up: Mr. Muhammad Hafsham Hadi Bin Hanapi

2nd runner up: Ms. Nurul Aini Shahira Binti Hariadi

Karaoke Manekineko would also like to express its sincere appreciation to the other finalists who participated in the competition and delivered vibrant and powerful performances. Some contestants travelled from out of state and even overseas, and their passion and dedication greatly contributed to the energy and success of the event. The finalists are as follows:

· Ms. Siraphat Tongdeenoi

· Ms. Nittaya Panthaisong

· Mr. Parto Fransiskus

· Mr. Tai Eimran bin Azlan

· Mr. Aric Lau Zhe Peng

· Ms. Cheryl Lee Ka Xuan

Karaoke Manekineko would also like to extend its sincere appreciation to its valued sponsors, ANA Malaysia and Lipton Tea from Etika Holdings. Their generous support and contributions played an important role in elevating the competition and ensuring the success of the event.

As Karaoke Manekineko continues its expansion across Southeast Asia, the company remains committed to enhancing its events and delivering more exciting competitions for karaoke enthusiasts across the region. With its growing presence, Karaoke Manekineko looks forward to bringing even more engaging and memorable experiences to communities throughout Southeast Asia.

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd
Koshidaka International was incorporated in 2021 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a full subsidiary of Koshidaka Holdings. The company serves as a management consultancy arm for the Karaoke Manekineko operations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Karaoke Manekineko is a friendly and safe environment for Karaoke that is designed to accommodate a diverse range of customers, from families with young children to groups of friends and corporate teams.

Join PetroSync API Training and Advance Your Career

 

Join PetroSync API Training to strengthen compliance, close technical gaps, and advance your oil & gas career with structured certification programs.

In today’s oil and gas landscape, compliance is no longer just a technical obligation. It has become a strategic priority discussed at boardroom level. Managers, directors, and business owners increasingly recognize that inspection competency directly impacts asset reliability, operational safety, and corporate reputation.

Responding to this growing demand, PetroSync officially invites industry professionals and corporate teams to join its structured API Training programs—designed not only to strengthen technical expertise, but also to support long-term business performance.

When Compliance Becomes a Boardroom Conversation

Across the oil and gas industry, inspection standards such as API 510 and API 570 have evolved into critical references for maintaining pressure vessels and piping systems. What was once handled primarily by engineering departments is now reviewed at the executive level.

Why? Because non-compliance carries operational risks, financial exposure, and reputational consequences.

In the B2B oil & gas training sector, there has been a noticeable shift. Corporate clients—particularly from refineries, petrochemical plants, EPC companies, and asset owners—are no longer looking for generic training. They seek structured, standards-based programs aligned with operational risk management and international compliance frameworks.

For decision makers at manager to director level, sending a team member to API training is not simply about certification. It is about safeguarding assets worth millions of dollars and ensuring inspection decisions are defensible during audits.

From Technical Gaps to Strategic Advantage

Every organization has technical gaps. The question is not whether they exist—but how proactively they are addressed.

PetroSync approaches API training differently. Before enrollment, many corporate clients begin with technical consultation. This discussion allows training advisors to understand:

The type of assets involved (pressure vessels, piping systems, storage tanks)

The experience level of the proposed participants

The certification targets

The company’s compliance timeline

This consultative process reflects a broader trend in B2B technical training: companies expect tailored recommendations, not one-size-fits-all programs.

For example, professionals responsible for pressure vessel inspection often pursue API 510 Training to deepen their understanding of inspection intervals, damage mechanisms, and regulatory compliance. The goal is clear—build internal capability that reduces dependency on external third parties while strengthening internal inspection integrity.

When technical gaps are addressed strategically, training becomes a competitive advantage rather than a cost center.

Why Decision Makers Choose Structured API Training

In corporate environments, training approval involves more than filling out a registration form. It often includes:

Budget allocation discussions

Internal competency mapping

Performance KPI alignment

Risk assessment review

At manager–director level, decision makers evaluate training through a business lens. They ask:

How does this improve inspection reliability?

Will this reduce unplanned shutdown risks?

Does this align with international standards?

What is the measurable return on investment?

PetroSync’s API programs are designed with this perspective in mind. Delivered by experienced practitioners, the sessions combine technical depth with practical case studies drawn from real-world industrial scenarios.

The result is not just certification readiness—but operational confidence.

The Registration Journey: From Internal Approval to Certification

In B2B oil & gas training, the registration journey typically follows a structured path:

Initial inquiry and technical consultation

Proposal issuance

Corporate approval process

Participant nomination

Official registration and confirmation

PetroSync supports this entire process with dedicated coordination to ensure documentation, scheduling, and administrative requirements are handled efficiently.

Understanding that many participants come from corporate sponsorship programs, PetroSync ensures clarity in pricing, scheduling, and certification pathways. This transparency simplifies internal approvals and accelerates decision-making.

Advancing Careers While Strengthening Organizations

For professionals, API certification can significantly enhance credibility and career progression. For companies, it strengthens compliance posture and internal technical authority.

PetroSync’s invitation is clear: organizations that invest in structured API training today are investing in operational resilience tomorrow.

As compliance expectations continue to rise globally, the question is no longer whether your team should be certified—but how soon you are ready to elevate your standards.

For more information about upcoming API programs and corporate registration, PetroSync encourages interested organizations to connect with its advisory team and explore the next step toward technical excellence.

About PetroSync Global Internasional

PetroSync was established in Singapore in 2010 and began its expansion into Indonesia in 2013. To this day, PetroSync has become a leading oil and gas training provider, with a participant passing rate as high as 90%.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES