A shining example of leadership and excellence, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto was recently featured on a solo LED billboard in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, powered by Alegre De Pilipinas “Official” and Janice Israel Delima.
This remarkable international exposure celebrates her lifelong contributions to public service, arts, and entertainment — inspiring generations of Filipinos through her passion, integrity, and heart for the people.
“I am very thankful. Every recognition I’ve received is a feather on my cap. After so many years in the business, it’s heartwarming to still be remembered and appreciated. For that, I am very thankful,” said Ate Vi, the Star for All Seasons, who recently celebrated her birthday.
She added, “The longevity of one’s career is a blessing, but at the end of the day, it’s really about hard work — never giving up, and never stopping the learning process. Recognition like this is a reminder to keep honing your craft.”
As one of the awardees of the 3rd Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers 2025, Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto continues to prove that genuine service and excellence can transcend borders.
Presented by La Visual Corporation, this milestone recognizes her as one of the Philippines’ most influential figures — a true icon of leadership, talent, and inspiration on the global stage.
Trump–Luxon encounter
During the recent APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit in South Korea, U.S. President Donald J. Trump met with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The two leaders discussed trade tariffs and golf, with PM Luxon inviting President Trump to visit New Zealand.
While no formal agreements were made, the meeting was seen as a diplomatic success for Luxon, helping build rapport and strengthen relations between the two nations.
A reunion for the Medina family
It was a meaningful family gathering for the Medina clan during the recent All Saints’ Day observance.
I arrived early at the historic Loreto Church in Sampaloc, Manila, where our grandparents Capt. Peregrino Bunye Medina and Paz Bendicio Medina, along with my father, uncles, and eldest cousin Virgilio, were laid to rest.
My favorite first cousin, Ariel Medina, and his wife Analisa were the first to greet me. Later, cousins Ronald Medina, Perry Medina, Dogie Medina, and Maria Paz M. Cruz arrived with their children and grandchildren.
After our solemn prayers for our departed loved ones, my ever-kind cousin Maria Paz treated us to lunch at Classic Savory in SM Sta. Mesa, Manila.
We then proceeded to the home of cousin Lenon M. Bueno, who prepared my favorite Filipino dish, kare-kare, which I had truly missed since being in California. There, I reunited with more nephews, nieces, and grandchildren.
I am looking forward to more family reunions this holiday season.
Salvie and Sheanne
“It’s overwhelming! This award means so much, not just for me but for the entire team. It’s a testament to hard work and dedication — a motivation to do even better,” said Salvie Collado Paparon, a PFBA awardee and proud mother of Sheanne Marie Faye, who is making waves in the world of sports.
Sheanne won two silver medals — in poomsae and sparring — during the recent California Open International Taekwondo Championship in Anaheim, California.
A cruise in Manzanillo
Couple Vincent and Victoria Isip recently celebrated their wedding anniversary aboard the Ruby Princess cruise ship. They enjoyed the beauty of the Mexican city Manzanillo, known internationally for deep-sea fishing, the “green flash” sunset phenomenon, and its warm Pacific waters.
(From left) Edwin Lisa, Rogelio Constantino Medina and Salvie Collado Paparon during the 3rd Philippines Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers awards ceremony at Newport Performing Arts Theatre.
Manzanillo is a popular resort destination with many hotels and self-contained resorts, particularly along the De Santiago Peninsula, which juts out into the Pacific north of the city center.
A visit to Daily Tribune
I paid a visit to the office of the Daily Tribune newspaper in Makati City. That day, lifestyle editor Dinah Sabal Venturawas in Türkiye, and Ms. Cathy Moran kindly attended to me, with assistance from Ms. Meann Datoy.
It was a fruitful visit. I also fondly remembered the late editor-in-chief Ninez Cacho Olivarez, who was always kind and encouraging.
Museo Orlina staff
JM dela Cruz and Anthony Remellosa at Museo Orlina in Tagaytay City.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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