Wednesday, 4 March 2026

The Philippines Increase Imports of European Poultry

 

Manila, 27 February 2026 – The Philippines are increasing imports of poultry meat from the European Union. According to data from the European Commission (DG AGRI), EU shipments reached approximately 67.3 thousand tonnes in 2025, compared with around 41.3 thousand tonnes in 2024, up nearly 63%. This trend reflects the rapid growth of the Philippines’ poultry import market in Southeast Asia, especially in modern retail and the HoReCa sector.

Rising demand and the growing importance of the Philippine market

Figures released by the Philippine Bureau of Animal Industry show that total poultry meat imports (chicken, duck, and turkey) reached approximately 473.8 thousand tonnes in 2024 and 541.4 thousand tonnes in 2025, confirming strong, sustained demand in the Philippine market. 

USDA forecasts suggest imports could rise to 560 thousand tonnes in 2026 if consumption keeps growing and trade liberalisation continues.

The role of imports is strengthened by the expansion of the HoReCa sector, ongoing urbanisation and the need for international trade to ensure stable supplies of animal protein. This shift is also visible in supplies from Europe, including Poland—the EU’s largest poultry meat producer—which exported more than 45 thousand tonnes of poultry meat and offal to the Philippines in 2025.

The first year of the EU POULTRY campaign – practical action in the market

In March 2025, the EU co-financed three-year information and promotion campaign “European Poultry – From Our Farms to Your Tables” launched in the Philippines. In its first year, activities focused on raising awareness of European poultry among importers, distributors and the HoReCa sector, while strengthening the campaign’s presence in the media. 

This involved PR and digital outreach, partnerships with industry influencers and the media, and trade-focused meetings with business partners.

WOFEX 2025 – European poultry in the industry spotlight

A standout moment in the first year was the campaign’s presence at World Food Expo (WOFEX) 2025 in Manila, one of the region’s biggest food industry trade fairs, which brought together 724 exhibitors and over 72,000 visitors. The EU POULTRY stand hosted dozens of B2B meetings on trade cooperation, distribution and HoReCa supply, while also showcasing EU poultry production standards and engaging with media and opinion leaders during an accompanying press event.

Campaign goals – quality, safety and EU standards

The campaign “European Poultry – From Our Farms to Your Tables” aims to raise awareness of European poultry production, built on strict standards for food safety, animal welfare, full traceability and care for the environment. The campaign also supports the long-term growth of trade between the EU and the Philippines.

“The first year of the campaign showed rising interest in European poultry in the Philippine market—especially around production standards, safety and reliable supply. It’s a strong starting point for further growth in trade cooperation,” says Dariusz GoszczyƄski, President of the National Poultry Council – Chamber of Commerce in Poland.

In the second year, activities will focus on deepening business cooperation with Philippine importers and distributors and strengthening dialogue within the HoReCa sector. A key element will be a study visit to Poland for Philippine partners, featuring meetings with European poultry industry representatives and a first-hand presentation of EU production, control and traceability standards.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Celebrate the Festive Season with Karaoke Manekineko’s New Buffet & Karaoke Combo

 


Value-for-money sing and dine only at Karaoke Manekineko Berjaya Times Square outlet!

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – This festive month, Karaoke Manekineko invites families and loved ones to come together, share a good meal, and enjoy happy moments with its special promotion, Citarasa Warisan International buffet, available from 19 February 2026 to 20 March 2026 only at their Berjaya Time Square outlet.

Inspired by the spirit of togetherness, this promotion brings people closer over a comforting, internationally inspired buffet. Guests can savour a daily selection of local favourites and global delights while enjoying three hours of lively karaoke fun — dining, singing, and celebrating unforgettable moments all at the same time.

Available daily from 7.00 PM to 11.00 PM, this exceptional value experience is priced at just RM50.00++ per person for three hours of unlimited dining and karaoke entertainment.

Citarasa Warisan International sets the stage for heartwarming family dinners, lively catch-ups with friends, and joyful reunions — transforming every gathering into a meaningful celebration during this special season. As loved ones come together to reconnect, Karaoke Manekineko aims to provide a warm and vibrant space where laughter flows, delicious meals are shared, and cherished moments are created.

Reservations are recommended to secure preferred time slots throughout the festive period.

For more information or bookings, please contact Karaoke Manekineko Malaysia Berjaya Times Square outlet at +60128568077

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.
 
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Tuesday, 3 March 2026

Batangas emerges as key growth area for horizontal residential developments

  

Aerial view of Idesia Lipa in Batangas, a thriving and growing community.
Aerial view of Idesia Lipa in Batangas, a thriving and growing community.

Batangas continues to emerge as one of the country’s most promising growth areas for horizontal residential developments, as property developers respond to sustained end-user demand, improving infrastructure, and the growing appeal of suburban living outside Metro Manila.

Industry observations reported by BusinessWorld note that homebuyers remain drawn to horizontal housing in regional markets that offer accessibility, economic opportunities, and long-term value. Batangas consistently figures among these preferred locations in Southern Luzon.

Batangas at the Center of Regional Growth

The province’s strategic location, strong industrial and manufacturing base, and expanding transport networks have positioned Batangas as a key driver of regional development. These factors align with priorities identified by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), which has recognized Batangas as a vital growth corridor in Southern Luzon.

At the same time, stable overseas Filipino worker (OFW) remittances and manageable inflation levels—highlighted in data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)—continue to support housing demand in the province.

Homebuyers today are more deliberate in their decisions—they want space, security, and communities that support long-term living,” said Atty. Marianne Reyna Lina-Cruz, President of P.A. Properties“Batangas offers a compelling balance of accessibility, economic opportunity, and quality of life, making it highly suited for horizontal residential developments.

Strengthening Presence in Lipa and Tanauan

Reflecting confidence in Batangas’ growth potential, P.A. Properties continues to expand its residential footprint in the province through established and upcoming developments in Lipa and Tanauan.

The company’s Idesia project in Lipa, Batangas, developed in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp. of Japan, introduces master-planned communities that emphasize efficient design, sustainability, and a strong sense of neighborhood—qualities increasingly valued by today’s homeowners.

Our partnership with Hankyu Hanshin allows us to apply global best practices in community planning to high-growth locations like Lipa,” said Lina-Cruz. “Idesia reflects our long-term commitment to building well-designed, livable communities in Batangas.”

In addition, P.A. Properties has expanded its Nuvista developments in both Tanauan and Lipa, further strengthening its presence in key Batangas cities. These projects cater to families and first-time buyers seeking accessible, well-planned communities near employment centers and essential services.

Outlook for Horizontal Housing in Batangas

Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties, developers remain cautiously optimistic about the outlook for horizontal residential developments in Batangas. The province continues to attract genuine end-users, supported by strong demand fundamentals and sustained regional growth.

“We remain focused on locations where real housing needs anchor demand,” the CEO added. “Batangas consistently demonstrates these fundamentals, which is why it remains a priority area for our residential developments.”

Building Where Growth Is Taking Shape

With Idesia in Lipa, BatangasNuvista projects in Tanauan and Lipa, and an expanding portfolio across the province, P.A. Properties reinforces its role in contributing to Batangas’ emergence as a key growth area for horizontal residential developments.

As infrastructure, economic activity, and population growth continue to converge in Batangas, the province is expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of suburban and community-centered living in Southern Luzon.

About P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation
Nestled in San Pedro, Laguna, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation (P.A. Properties) is a leading developer of low to medium-cost housing communities in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 1994, the company has crafted over 30,000 homes across key Philippine provinces, with plans to build an additional 20 communities in the next 5 years. P.A. Properties, guided by the tagline "Behind Every Home is a Story," not only addresses the nation's housing backlog but also actively contributes to economic growth. Through philanthropic initiatives, such as hospital donations in Cabuyao, providing right of way in Pampanga for civic centers, and establishing SanJo's markets in provinces like Laguna and Bulacan, the company weaves a narrative of community development and nationwide impact.

Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Alternatives Gain Ground in the Philippines, Says Medical Experts

Quezon City, Metro Manila — As more Filipinos seek ways to address skin sagging and early signs of aging without surgery, non-surgical skin tightening treatments are rapidly gaining traction across the Philippines. Medical experts note that advances in energy-based technology now allow patients to achieve firmer, more lifted skin with minimal downtime—when performed under proper medical supervision. This growing demand reflects a broader shift toward safer, science-backed aesthetic solutions that prioritize natural results over invasive procedures.

Why Patients Are Choosing Non-Surgical Skin Tightening

Skin laxity is a natural result of collagen and elastin loss over time, accelerated by sun exposure, stress, and lifestyle factors. Traditionally, surgical lifting was considered the primary solution. Today, however, many patients—especially those with mild to moderate sagging—are opting for non-surgical alternatives.

According to clinicians, these treatments appeal to patients who want:

• Gradual, natural-looking improvement

• Minimal recovery time

• Lower risk compared to surgery

• Preventive anti-aging solutions

How Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Works

Non-surgical skin tightening commonly uses radio frequency (RF) technology, which delivers controlled heat to the deeper layers of the skin. This process:

• Stimulates collagen contraction

• Encourages new collagen production

• Improves skin firmness over time

Results develop gradually over weeks to months, aligning with the body’s natural healing and regeneration cycle.

Medical Oversight Is Key, Experts Warn

While non-surgical treatments are often marketed as “simple” or “lunchtime procedures,” medical professionals caution that improper use of energy-based devices can lead to uneven results or skin complications.

“Skin tightening treatments may be non-surgical, but they are still medical procedures,” said Doc Donna, a senior physician at MOLD Manila and the incoming head of the clinic’s upcoming surgical division set to open in 2026.

“Proper patient assessment, correct energy settings, and an understanding of facial anatomy are critical. When done correctly, non-surgical skin tightening can significantly improve skin quality and firmness without altering natural facial movement,” she added.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Non-Surgical Skin Tightening?

Medical experts say these treatments are best suited for patients who:

• Have mild to moderate skin laxity

• Are beginning to notice sagging in the face or neck

• Want preventive anti-aging care

• Are not ready or eligible for surgical procedures

Patients with advanced skin laxity may still benefit from non-surgical treatments as part of a broader, staged treatment plan.

Why Combination Treatment Plans Deliver Better Results

Rather than relying on a single session, clinician-led clinics often integrate skin tightening with complementary treatments such as laser resurfacing or facial rejuvenation therapies. This layered approach supports both surface skin quality and deeper structural firmness.

According to industry professionals, this strategy leads to:

• More balanced, natural outcomes

• Improved skin texture and tone

• Longer-lasting results

The Rise of Medical-Grade Aesthetic Clinics in Quezon City

Quezon City has become a focal point for advanced non-surgical aesthetics in Metro Manila, driven by increased patient awareness and demand for medical-grade care.

Clinics like MOLD Manila emphasize:

• Doctor-led consultations

• FDA-cleared, medical-grade technology

• Personalized treatment planning

• Ethical recommendations based on patient needs

This approach aligns with global standards in aesthetic medicine and reflects the industry’s movement toward accountability and clinical excellence.

Looking Ahead: Bridging Non-Surgical and Surgical Aesthetics

With the planned opening of its surgical clinic in 2026, MOLD Manila is positioning itself to offer a full spectrum of aesthetic care—from non-invasive treatments to advanced surgical options—under unified medical leadership.

“This integration allows us to guide patients honestly,” Doc Donna noted. “Sometimes non-surgical treatments are enough. Other times, surgery may eventually be the better option. What matters is giving patients clear, medically sound guidance at every stage.”

About MOLD Manila

MOLD Manila is a premium, clinician-led aesthetic clinic located in White Plains, Quezon City. Specializing in non-surgical, medical-grade treatments, the clinic focuses on skin tightening, anti-aging, acne scar management, and personalized aesthetic care. The clinic is set to expand its services with the opening of a dedicated surgical division in 2026.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES. 

Join PetroSync API Training to Strengthen Compliance

  

PetroSync API Training helps oil & gas companies strengthen compliance, support corporate approval, and enhance inspection competency.

 In today’s increasingly regulated oil and gas industry, compliance is no longer a departmental concern. It has become a board-level priority. Recognizing this shift, PetroSync announces its commitment to supporting organizations through structured API training programs designed to strengthen inspection competency and regulatory alignment.

As asset integrity risks continue to attract regulatory scrutiny worldwide, industry leaders are prioritizing internationally recognized standards such as API 510 and API 570 to safeguard pressure vessels and piping systems. PetroSync’s API training portfolio is positioned to support companies in translating these standards into operational readiness.

Addressing the Strategic Needs of B2B Oil & Gas Companies

The oil and gas training sector operates primarily within a B2B framework, where companies — not individuals — drive enrollment decisions. Training investments are typically aligned with broader asset integrity strategies, audit readiness initiatives, and long-term risk mitigation programs.

In most cases, the decision-making process involves multiple stakeholders, including inspection managers, asset integrity leads, procurement departments, and director-level executives. Training approval is rarely transactional; it is strategic.

PetroSync recognizes that organizations require more than certification. They require measurable compliance reinforcement.

Through structured API programs, including the specialized API 510 Training, PetroSync supports companies in enhancing internal inspection systems, minimizing documentation gaps, and strengthening audit preparedness.

Technical Consultation as Part of the Enrollment Process

Unlike open public seminars, corporate API training requires alignment with specific operational realities. PetroSync incorporates a consultative approach before finalizing participant enrollment.

This process includes:

Reviewing the company’s asset profile (refinery, petrochemical, offshore, or upstream facilities)

Identifying inspection challenges and competency gaps

Aligning certification goals with operational priorities

Ensuring appropriate program selection based on risk exposure

Such consultation ensures that training outcomes support real business objectives, rather than functioning solely as certification milestones.

For decision makers at manager and director levels, this consultative model provides clarity on return on investment, technical relevance, and long-term compliance impact.

Navigating Corporate Registration and Approval Workflows

Corporate-sponsored training typically follows a structured approval pathway. Internal technical justification is often required before budget allocation. Procurement validation, vendor registration, and financial documentation are integral to the process.

PetroSync supports this corporate workflow by providing:

Formal proposals and course outlines

Official quotations aligned with procurement standards

Vendor documentation where required

Administrative coordination to streamline registration

By understanding the internal approval landscape of oil and gas organizations, PetroSync ensures that enrollment processes remain efficient and aligned with corporate governance standards.

Strengthening Compliance Through Structured API Programs

As regulatory oversight intensifies and operational risk remains a constant concern, companies are increasingly prioritizing inspector competency as part of their compliance strategy.

API-certified inspectors contribute to:

Reduced inspection errors

Improved documentation consistency

Enhanced audit confidence

Lower exposure to regulatory penalties

PetroSync’s API training programs are designed to equip inspection professionals with structured knowledge aligned with international standards, supporting organizations in maintaining operational integrity.

For companies seeking to reinforce compliance frameworks and strengthen internal inspection capabilities, PetroSync offers a strategic pathway through its comprehensive API training portfolio.

In an industry where compliance directly impacts safety, reliability, and reputation, investing in the right technical training is not simply an educational decision — it is a business decision.

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

The Philippines Increase Imports of European Poultry

  Manila, 27 February 2026 – The Philippines are increasing imports of poultry meat from the European Union. According to data from the Euro...