Latest News from Filipino Times
Filipino Times
13 hours ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
PTIC, PBC DNE, and DMJ Ecospace collaborate for VIP networking dinner with Design Philippines delegates in Dubai
In a bid to strengthen the presence of Filipino design in the UAE's construction and interiors industry, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) and Philippine Business Council Dubai & Northern Emirates (PBC DNE), in collaboration with DMJ Ecospace, hosted a VIP Premier Networking Dinner featuring the Design Philippines delegation. The gathering took place on May 28, 2025, at Salties Aloft Hotel in Deira, Dubai. The event welcomed an esteemed roster of guests from both the Philippine government and the UAE-based business community, including Consul General Marford Angeles, Vice Consul Aleah, PTIC Commissioner Vichael Roaring, and Ms. Marjo Evio, Head of Delegation from CITEM. Also in attendance were renowned Filipino designer and curator Mr. Ito Kish and distinguished personalities Ms. Natasha Carella and Ms. Bobby Carella, who extended an invitation for Design Philippines to participate in Downtown Design 2025. The evening brought together a select group of developers, architects, consultants, procurement heads, interior designers, and contractors. It served as a platform for the Design Philippines delegates to understand the UAE market, build strategic connections, and share their brand stories and product innovations with key industry stakeholders. One of the most memorable moments of the night was a tribute to Mr. Wajih Nakkash, Founder of Nakkash Gallery, a pioneer in bringing premium Philippine-made furniture to the region. His daughter, Ms. Aya Nakkash, who now leads Nakkash Contracts, was also recognized. Ms. Marilou Lorenzo Joson, Managing Director of DMJ Ecospace, expressed heartfelt gratitude to her former mentor and the Nakkash family, whom she worked with for 19 years. Guests were introduced to ten outstanding Design Philippines companies that showcased their world-class craftsmanship and creativity. These included Arksmith, Aerostone, 51 All Weather Furniture, Red Slab Pottery, Prizmic & Brill, South Sea Veneer, Studio Moodism, Uratex, Mindanao Pearl, and Kit Silver. Their displays featured a wide range of products—ranging from furniture and ceramics to home accents and design materials—highlighting the innovation and artistry of Filipino makers. Adding further insight to the evening was a keynote from Mr. Randip Dhingra, Founder of World Bazaar Luxury Outdoor, who shared valuable strategies on curating and sustaining a successful luxury multi-brand showroom in Dubai. Over 30 companies from the UAE design and construction industry were in attendance, including Moma International Design, Godwin Austen Johnson, NEB, WA Interiors, XBD Collectives, The Parker Company, 1508 London, Monarca International, Play Middle East, and TAG 91.1, among others. Their presence underscored a strong and growing interest in Filipino creativity and collaborative opportunities within the region.
Filipino Times
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Fly with PAL and get 30% off at ARTE MUSEUM Dubai within a month of your trip
Philippine Airlines (PAL) travelers can now enjoy a 30% discount at ARTE MUSEUM Dubai, a unique space where art and technology blend to create a fully immersive experience. By simply presenting a PAL boarding pass dated within one month of travel along with a valid ID, guests can unlock this exclusive offer until May 31, 2026. The promo is valid for up to five guests, including the boarding pass holder, making it a perfect bonding activity for families, barkadas, or even solo travelers with visiting friends. Located at Dubai Mall, ARTE MUSEUM is known for its breathtaking exhibits that transport guests to magical digital landscapes. From waves that move with your motion to glowing digital gardens, the museum offers a refreshing way to unwind after a flight or explore something new while in Dubai. The 30% discount adds even more value to PAL's service for Filipinos traveling between the UAE and the Philippines. The offer, however, does not apply on UAE public holidays, so travelers are encouraged to plan ahead to maximize the deal. ARTE MUSEUM and Philippine Airlines are both committed to offering memorable experiences—whether in the skies or on the ground. This collaboration adds a colorful stop to every kabayan's itinerary, celebrating art, culture, and the beauty of travel. Terms and conditions apply.
Filipino Times
17 hours ago
- Filipino Times
DMW shuts down Japanese language center in Davao over illegal recruitment
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has ordered the closure of another Japanese language center (JLC) in Davao City due to illegal recruitment activities. The center, Sincere Japanese Skills Academy, Inc., is the fourth JLC closed by the agency in just two weeks. An investigation revealed that Sincere was offering language training programs alongside promises of jobs in Japan. It was found to be working with unlicensed and unauthorized recruitment groups such as the fake Advanced Ability Association (AAA), as well as one licensed agency. According to testimonies from workers who sought help from the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Tokyo, they were charged between Php 3,000 to Php 50,000 for the training. They were also promised jobs as caregivers, food and beverage service crew, or airport ground staff after passing an exam. The closure was carried out under DMW Closure Order No. 14, Series of 2025. Sincere and its officials will be added to the DMW's List of Persons and Entities with a Derogatory Record. They are now facing charges related to illegal recruitment. The DMW is urging other possible victims to come forward and contact the Migrant Workers Protection Bureau through their official Facebook page to receive free legal help and support.
Filipino Times
20 hours ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
Pag-IBIG Fund continues to grow members' savings as investment income climbs 50%
Pag-IBIG Fund recorded a 50% increase in investment income in the first four months of 2025, reflecting its prudent financial stewardship and growing capacity to support members' savings and housing needs. The development affirms the agency's key role in advancing the Marcos administration's agenda of strengthening government financial institutions and improving the lives of Filipino workers through responsive social benefits. From January to April 2025, the agency earned ₱2.73 billion in investment income alone—significantly higher than the ₱1.81 billion posted during the same period in 2024—driven by strategic placements in bonds and other debt securities, money market instruments, equities, and investment properties. Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta highlighted that the agency's investment portfolio stood at ₱158.15 billion as of April 2025, reflecting a 42% year-on-year increase from ₱111.39 billion in April 2024. She noted that this growth forms part of Pag-IBIG Fund's sound and strategic allocation of its more than ₱1.11 trillion in total assets—a milestone the agency reached earlier this month. Based on the latest available data, Pag-IBIG Fund's earning assets have reached ₱1.09 trillion, consisting of ₱856.96 billion in housing-related assets, ₱77.94 billion in short-term loans, and ₱158.12 billion in income-generating investments. The remaining ₱20 million accounts for other assets, including property and equipment, cash, and intangible assets. 'Our investments play a vital role in providing our members with the best possible returns,' Acosta said. 'We begin by meeting our housing investment requirement to help more Filipinos own homes through affordable financing. We also maintain adequate funding for our short-term loans, ensuring members have access to immediate financial assistance. Remaining investible funds are placed in secure instruments that deliver competitive returns while preserving liquidity for members' claims. Through this balanced, disciplined approach—anchored on the strategic allocation of our resources to housing, short-term lending, and investments—we fulfill our mission to safeguard our members' trust and deliver meaningful benefits, the Lingkod Pag-IBIG way.' Meanwhile, the agency also formally welcomed Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling this week as the newly appointed Chairperson of its 11-member Board of Trustees. His leadership is expected to further guide Pag-IBIG Fund's strategic direction in line with the Marcos administration's housing and institutional development agenda.
Filipino Times
20 hours ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
3,000 abandoned balikbayan boxes turned over to DMW for delivery to OFW families
Around 3,000 balikbayan boxes, originally sent by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) but left unclaimed due to mishandling and neglect by freight forwarders, have been handed over to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for proper distribution to the intended recipients. In a statement on May 29, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said the turnover follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to keep government services attuned to the needs of Filipino families. With the Department of Finance's (DOF) approval, the BOC officially declared the boxes as forfeited and finalized a deed of donation with the DMW. The DMW will now be responsible for ensuring the long-delayed packages are delivered to the families of OFWs. BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio assured the public that the balikbayan boxes would finally reach their rightful recipients after months of inter-agency coordination since early 2024. The BOC emphasized that it took extensive steps to secure legal clearances, complete documentation, and manage logistics to ensure the boxes could be lawfully and properly released.
