Filipino Craftsmanship Takes the Spotlight at High Point Market

 

Inside the massive 11.5-million-square-foot venues of the High Point Market—often considered the "Fashion Week" of the home furnishings industry—the Philippine delegation made a memorable impression this spring. Returning to the premier global trade show, 14 local manufacturers and exporters under the DESIGNPhilippines banner successfully secured $3.7 million in initial orders and ongoing business negotiations.

The Philippine pavilion stood out by showcasing innovative home products made from sustainable, native materials such as raffia, abaca, and piña fiber. The display signaled a strong comeback for the country, positioning Filipino makers not just as traditional craftspeople but as modern leaders in design innovation.

For the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the strategic timing of the mission was essential to tapping into High Point’s massive economic reach, which generates an estimated $6.7 billion annually. CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo emphasized the impact of the showcase, noting, “This comeback proves the world-class artistry and craftsmanship that continues to see high global demand.”

International buyers and guests at the Philippine Pavilion

The international design community quickly took notice, with several Philippine products earning major industry accolades. The Turtle Love Seat by Fifty One All Weather was selected by industry veteran Rhobin Dela Cruz for the market’s influential Style Spotters Program, which identifies the event's top trendsetting products. Concurrently, the FolioLux Collection by That One Piece was named an Editor’s Pick by the leading trade publication Home Accents Today.

Prominent design media also featured the delegation's work. Business of Home highlighted A. Garcia Crafts’ Pamela Wire Chair and Southsea Veneer’s Frente side table in its Spring 2026 Designer’s Guide to High Point Market. Meanwhile, industry authority Furniture Today singled out Aerostone’s Estrella Dining Table, alongside the Turtle and Pamela chairs, as standout pieces to watch.

Beyond finished furniture, the pavilion’s display of raw Philippine components, material coverings, and custom fittings drew heavy foot traffic. Global buyers and designers spent time examining the material quality and technical execution, validating the country's competitive edge in manufacturing. This high engagement attracted prominent international brands and retailers, including Clive Daniel Home, Made Goods, Palecek, The Phillips Collection, and Urban Outfitters.

The 14-strong Philippine delegation at High Point Market 2026

For those unable to attend the North Carolina event, a curated selection of these award-winning pieces is currently on display at the Likhang Filipino Window Display at The Philippine Center (556 5th Ave, New York), running through September 2026.

To experience the full breadth of Philippine design firsthand, CITEM is also organizing Manila FAME, the country’s premier home, fashion, and lifestyle trade show. The event is scheduled to take place at the World Trade Center Metro Manila from October 15–17, 2026.

About CITEM

About CITEM The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM advances the country’s image as a premier sourcing destination for quality export products and services. CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export promotion in partnership with other government and private entities.

Carziqo Launches ER-BX Autonomous Ride-Hailing Fleet Operations in Atlanta

 Carziqo has officially announced the operational deployment of its flagship ER-BX (EarnRide + Boost) autonomous ride-hailing fleet in Atlanta, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion across the United States autonomous mobility market.

The launch positions Atlanta as one of the first key operational hubs for Carziqo’s next-generation autonomous transportation ecosystem. The company aims to leverage the city’s rapidly growing technology sector, expanding urban population, and increasing demand for intelligent transportation solutions to accelerate the adoption of autonomous ride-hailing services.

The ER-BX Series represents Carziqo’s premium autonomous fleet platform, integrating advanced artificial intelligence, real-time navigation systems, cloud-based fleet management, and intelligent dispatch technology. Designed specifically for large-scale commercial ride-hailing operations, the vehicles are capable of continuously optimizing routes, reducing idle time, and improving passenger transportation efficiency.

According to Carziqo, every ER-BX vehicle operates as part of a connected intelligent network rather than as an individual vehicle. Through centralized AI coordination and real-time operational analysis, the fleet continuously learns from city traffic patterns, passenger demand trends, and road conditions to enhance overall system performance.

Atlanta was selected as a strategic deployment location due to its role as one of the largest transportation and business centers in the southeastern United States. The city's extensive road infrastructure, growing innovation ecosystem, and strong economic development have made it an attractive environment for emerging mobility technologies.

Industry analysts believe autonomous ride-hailing services could significantly reshape urban transportation in major metropolitan areas over the next decade. As artificial intelligence continues to mature, fleet-based autonomous mobility platforms are expected to improve transportation accessibility, reduce operational costs, and increase vehicle utilization rates compared to traditional transportation models.

The ER-BX Series also supports Carziqo’s broader sustainability initiatives. Powered by advanced electric vehicle technology, the fleet contributes to reducing urban emissions while supporting cleaner transportation alternatives for growing cities.

"Atlanta represents an important step in our long-term vision of building a globally connected intelligent mobility network," a Carziqo spokesperson stated. "The ER-BX Series combines autonomous driving, AI-powered fleet management, and cloud-based operational intelligence to create a transportation system designed for the future."

Beyond transportation services, the Atlanta deployment is expected to generate valuable operational data that will support ongoing improvements in autonomous driving performance, predictive fleet management, and city-scale mobility optimization.

As the number of autonomous vehicles connected to the Carziqo platform continues to grow, the company expects its intelligent transportation ecosystem to become increasingly efficient through machine learning, real-world operational feedback, and continuous software enhancement.

The Atlanta rollout forms part of Carziqo’s broader strategy to expand autonomous mobility services across major urban markets. Company executives indicate that additional city deployments are being evaluated as Carziqo continues building what it describes as a next-generation intelligent transportation infrastructure network.

With the ER-BX autonomous fleet now entering active operations in Atlanta, Carziqo is taking another step toward its vision of transforming urban mobility through autonomous technology, artificial intelligence, and scalable transportation innovation.

San Marino Consulate Expands Education Efforts Through Partnerships for Filipino Youth

 

As education continues to evolve in a rapidly changing world, meaningful partnerships have become increasingly important in expanding learning opportunities for students beyond the classroom. Through collaborations with local organizations, schools, and community groups, the Consulate General of the Republic of San Marino in the Philippines continues to strengthen programs that help young Filipinos grow academically, culturally, and socially.

By working closely with educational institutions and community stakeholders, the Consulate has expanded initiatives that promote lifelong learning and expose students to broader cultural and global perspectives. These efforts reflect the growing understanding that education today extends beyond textbooks and traditional instruction—it also involves nurturing creativity, cultural awareness, and a deeper appreciation of the world.

According to Consul General Jean Henri Lhuillier, education must equip young people with the skills and mindset needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected future.

“Education today must prepare students not only to read and write, but also to understand the world around them, appreciate culture, and adapt to the future. Young learners need opportunities that encourage curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong desire to learn,” said Lhuillier.

This vision has guided several educational and cultural initiatives supported by the Consulate over the years. Beyond promoting literacy, these programs seek to create enriching learning experiences that help students become globally aware while remaining grounded in their communities and cultural identity.

Among the Consulate’s longstanding collaborators is Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), whose partnership has further strengthened efforts to make educational and community-based programs more accessible to Filipino youth. Together, they continue to support initiatives that encourage literacy, creativity, and inclusive learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

One such initiative is the Consulate’s partnership with Bookmark, Inc. to publish Pamilyang Papel, a children’s activity and storytelling material designed to make cultural education more engaging and accessible. The publication promotes reading, creativity, and the formation of values through interactive learning experiences that introduce young readers to culture and heritage.

Building on these efforts, the Consulate, in collaboration with Cebuana Lhuillier and LINKS Philippines, has continued to strengthen the Hooked on Books Program, an initiative aimed at enhancing learning environments and fostering a stronger culture of reading among Filipino students. The latest project under the program is the development of the JHL-RSM Library, the 30th milestone Hooked on Books (HOB) library established through the initiative.

As part of the project, Leonor Petra G. Elepaño met with representatives of the local government and the city administration of Manila, including city administrator Atty. Eduardo Quintos, who expressed support for the initiative and its potential impact on the community.

Currently under construction at Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School, the JHL-RSM Library forms part of the Consulate’s broader commitment to creating more inclusive and supportive spaces for learning. In preparation for its opening, volunteers and partners participated in a three-day community effort that included mural painting activities, library setup, and storytelling sessions for students. These activities reflect the program’s holistic approach to literacy, combining access to books with creative learning experiences that encourage children to develop a lifelong love for reading.

The project has also received support from several private-sector partners. Boysen donated mural paints that helped transform the facility into a vibrant and engaging space for students, while TOSOT served as the project’s air-conditioning sponsor.

Meanwhile, Archispace Design Inc. contributed to the construction and design of the learning space alongside JAS Design and Build Development Corp., led by Sandy Ocampo and Alvin Lu, further highlighting the collaborative effort behind the initiative.

As the project continues to take shape, it reflects San Marino’s enduring commitment to supporting educational programs that expand access to knowledge, encourage cultural appreciation, and help prepare young Filipinos for the opportunities and challenges of the future. Through initiatives such as the JHL-RSM Library, the Consulate continues to demonstrate how partnerships can help create meaningful learning experiences that empower the next generation of Filipino learners.

‘Reyna ng Good Vibes' Zeinab Harake Parks pinakabagong mukha ng Casino Plus!

 

MANILA, Philippines, May 31, 2026 — Ipinakilala na ng Casino Plus—isa sa mga leading entertainment and gaming platforms na regulated at licensed ng PAGCOR—ang nag-iisang Reyna ng Good Vibes na si Zeinab Harake Parks bilang kanilang pinakabagong brand advocate.

Kung power, reach, at digital hatak ang pag-uusapan, talagang walang dudang certified A-lister si Zeinab. Hawak lang naman niya ang isang dambuhalang online empire sa kanyang official accounts gaya ng YouTube (@ZeinabHarakeVlogs), TikTok (@zeinabharake), at Instagram (@zeinab_harake). Sa kanyang higit 17.7 Million followers sa TikTok, 15.4 Million subscribers sa YouTube, at 15 Million followers sa Facebook, asahan na ang pagbuhos ng umaapaw na saya at positibong enerhiya sa digital space. Kasama ang iba pang nagniningning na pangalan sa kanilang lumalaking roster of advocates, layon ng platform na mas lalo pang palawigin ang masaya at balanseng digital entertainment.

BEYOND VLOGGING: ANG PUSONG MAPAGBIGAY NG ISANG REYNA 

Bukod sa kanyang mga nakakaaliw na content at nakatutuwang TikTok trends, kilalang-kilala rin si Zeinab sa kanyang walang katulad na pusong mapagbigay. Narito ang ilan sa kanyang mga pinaka-trending na charity at advocacy works na labis na hinangaan at tumatak sa puso ng publiko:

-The Viral "Christmas Love Ritual": Naging tradisyon na ni Zeinab tuwing Pasko ang lumabas mismo sa lansangan para mamahagi ng noche buena packages, cash, at mga regalo sa mga nangangailangan—lalo na sa mga street vendors, homeless families, at mga batang lansangan.

-The Ultimate Ride-Hailing Surprise: Isa sa mga pinaka-pinanood at nag-trend na charity vlogs niya ay ang pag-surprise at pagbibigay ng dambuhalang tips, groceries, at bagong appliances para sa mga Grab at Foodpanda riders bilang pasasalamat sa kanilang serbisyo sa kalsada.

-The "Zebbies" Lifeline Giveaways: Madalas din siyang magpa-suwerte direkta sa kanyang mga tapat na tagahanga kung saan sinasagot niya ang pampa-ospital, pang-tuition ng mga estudyante, o kaya ay namimigay ng mga pangkabuhayan showcase tulad ng appliances at panimulang puhunan sa negosyo.

Ang ganitong klase ng commitment sa pagtulong ang tunay na dahilan kung bakit milyun-milyong Pinoy ang nagtitiwala at sumusuporta sa kanya online at offline.

Sey ni Zeinab, "Kumusta, Casino Plus Family! Sobrang excited na ako sa mga inihandang pasabog ng Casino Plus para sa inyong lahat. Abangan niyo iyan, enjoy lang sa paglalaro, at lagi nating tandaan na stay in control. At siyempre, isa pang paalala para sa lahat: game responsibly."

RESPONSIBLENG LIBANGAN PARA SA MGA PINOY 

Ayon kay Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma, tamang-tama ang pagdating ni Zeinab para sa kanilang "player-first" philosophy kung saan priyoridad pa rin ang kaligtasan at responsableng paglalaro ng publiko.

Sabi ng CEO: "At Casino Plus, our heart and soul have always been anchored on a player-first philosophy. As millions of Filipinos continue to embrace digital entertainment and gaming, we hope to further promote safe, balanced, and responsible gaming while creating a more engaging and positive entertainment experience for our players."

Handa na ba kayo sa mga susunod na pasabog at "good vibes" na ihahatid ni Zeinab? Paniguradong mas lalong iinit ang digital entertainment scene nito!

RESPONSIBLE GAMING ADVISORY

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results,including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a trusted online casino platform in the Philippines, duly licensed and regulated by the PAGCOR. The company is committed to providing a secure, fair, and engaging digital entertainment experience, guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection. With its continuous expansion, Casino Plus is now regarded as one of the country’s leading online casino platforms, combining entertainment excellence with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.