Sunday, March 9, 2025

Bakery Fair 2025

Bakery Fair 2025 took place from March 6 to 8 at the World Trade Center in Manila, bringing together bakers, hobbyists, and food lovers from across the Philippines and beyond. Organized by the Filipino-Chinese Bakery Association, Inc. (FCBAI), the event served as a grand celebration of the country's baking industry. The fair featured 11 competitive events, including standout contests like the Cake Illusion competition and the Flower Masters bread baking contest. Participants demonstrated remarkable talent, with the Grand Regal Tiers Wedding Cake Display Competition offering a PHP 150,000 grand prize that added to the excitement. The event successfully combined passion, skill, and friendly rivalry, making it a highlight in the baking calendar.


Beyond the competitions, the fair also became an educational hub, offering live demonstrations by international master bakers and local experts. Attendees explored advanced baking techniques, cost-effective solutions, and sustainable practices shaping the industry's future. Celebrities such as Rhian Ramos and Marvin Agustin participated, engaging the audience and sharing their baking experiences. Ramos introduced her BĀS Bakes cookie recipe, aligning with themes of healthy living and creativity. These activities enhanced the fair's appeal, blending entertainment with learning and inspiration.



According to FCBAI President Chris Ah, the event extended far beyond a typical trade exhibition. It served as a platform for strengthening community ties, supporting small and medium enterprises, and driving economic growth. The fair’s reach spanned from major cities to rural areas, nurturing industry connections nationwide. With activities like “The Baker’s Cup,” engaging demos, and public access to all three days of festivities, Bakery Fair 2025 created an inclusive space for everyone to experience the artistry and innovation of modern baking. Ultimately, it stood as a testament to the growth, resilience, and unity of the Philippine baking community.

Thursday, March 6, 2025

Liveable Cities “Data and the City: Using Data to Create Competitive Cities”

On March 5, 2025, Guillermo M. Luz, Chairman of Liveable Cities Philippines, opened the year’s first Liveable Cities Lab titled “Data and the City: Using Data to Create Competitive Cities” at Aboitiz Tech Space, AIM, Makati. The event emphasized how data plays a vital role in developing cities that are competitive, sustainable, resilient, and liveable. Luz underscored that for Philippine cities, data was crucial for improving public services and driving long-term growth.


The Lab brought together experts and city leaders to share insights on how data could transform urban governance and planning. Speakers such as Ms. Ofie Templo (DSWD), Dr. Alvin Ang (Center for Strategic and Policy Studies), Mayor Ferdie Estrella of Baliwag City, and Abel Capco of Globe Telecom discussed real-world applications and success stories. The event highlighted that effectively using data allows cities to better serve their citizens and plan strategically for the future.



This initiative was made possible through partnerships with the League of Cities of the Philippines, Coca-Cola Philippines, and Globe Business. The collaboration created a dynamic platform for learning and engagement, both on-site and online. The success of the event demonstrated the growing recognition of data as a foundational tool in shaping livable and future-ready cities.