Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Bookshelf PH Highlights New Voices in Contemporary Poetry

 

Bookshelf PH spotlights a resurgence in Philippine poetry by featuring three collections: Kalpesh Desai's Jasmines in Her Hair, a tender look at love; Astrid Sadaya's I Sea Poetry, a tribute to art and culture; and Catherine Castillo's In the Darkness of Shards, a courageous exploration of trauma. These new voices offer readers a meaningful escape in the digital age
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Bookshelf PH is proud to shine a spotlight on the fresh and fearless voices shaping the future of Philippine poetry. Once overshadowed by prose, poetry is experiencing a vibrant revival, offering readers an antidote to the noise of the digital age with words that connect, heal, and inspire.

In a time when audiences crave authenticity and emotional depth, poetry stands out as a space for raw honesty and unfiltered self-expression. From the sweetness of kilig to the ache of senti, it captures moments and emotions that prose can’t always contain. The rise of short-form content and e-books has only amplified its reach, bringing verse to a new generation of readers seeking meaning in the midst of modern life.

“We believe poetry has the power to slow us down and make us truly feel,” said Nicole Borromeo, Publishing Manager of Bookshelf PH. “These collections remind us that in between the rush of deadlines and the endless scroll of our feeds, there are still words that can stop us in our tracks, touch our hearts, and stay with us.”

Driven by its mission to champion local and independent literature, Bookshelf PH proudly presents three standout collections that embody the richness and diversity of today’s poetry scene:


Jasmines in Her Hair: Poetry For the Soul by Kalpesh Desai.

A tender exploration of love in all its forms, Jasmines in Her Hair journeys through the subtle dance of relationships—the entrances, exits, and moments of stillness in between. Described by Independent Book Review as “an avenue to find access to what love looks, feels, and sounds like in the mind of a poet,” Desai’s collection is both intimate and universal.


I Sea Poetry by Astrid Sadaya

Inspired by the breathtaking island of Siargao and other corners of the globe, Sadaya’s work is a love letter to the art, music, and cultures that have touched her soul. I Sea Poetry captures fleeting beauty and turns it into timeless verse—perfect for those who live to explore, create, and discover.


In the Darkness of Shards: Poems from A Broken Place by Catherine Castillo

Castillo’s searing and courageous collection confronts trauma, pain, and the long road to self-healing. With each verse, she reminds readers that wholeness embraces both the beautiful and the broken—that like glass, our sharp edges are part of what makes us complete.

These collections are now available on the Bookshelf PH website and Bookshelf PH’s Shopee and Lazada stores. Whether you are a lifelong lover of verse or new to the form, this month’s releases invite you to rediscover the power and beauty of modern poetry.

About Bookshelf PH

Bookshelf PH is an online bookstore and book publisher in the Philippines. It offers a platform for individuals to share their stories and ideas through self-publishing services, compelling book trailers, workshops, and its signature book talk series, The Write Side of Bookshelf.

Bookshelf PH aims to empower both aspiring and established authors, making publishing more accessible and creative. By nurturing a diverse and dynamic literary community in the Philippines, Bookshelf PH welcomes collaborations with all book lovers, including freelance writers and interns to local booksellers, self-published authors, and brands that aim to publish a book, whether through physical books or ebooks.

This press release has also been published in VRITIMES

Lead with Assurance – Join PetroSync and Achieve API Standard Compliance with Ease


 Achieve API Standard compliance with PetroSync. Boost efficiency, save costs, and stay ahead of competitors with expert training.

When Falling Behind Becomes Too Costly

Imagine this: your competitor just secured a major contract because their operations aligned seamlessly with international standards, while your team was still struggling with outdated processes. In today’s highly competitive oil and gas sector, every delay and every missed compliance step can cost more than revenue—it can cost reputation.

Falling behind isn’t just about losing time. It means risking client trust, increased operational downtime, and spiraling costs. Many businesses underestimate how quickly inefficiencies pile up until they see competitors moving faster, delivering better, and winning the opportunities that once felt within reach.

Why API Standard Compliance Is No Longer Optional

Compliance with API Standard is not just about ticking regulatory boxes—it’s about survival in a landscape where clients expect nothing less than precision, reliability, and safety. When your competitors proudly showcase compliance certificates, they’re not just displaying documents; they’re signaling to the market that they are safer, smarter, and more trustworthy partners.

The truth is, aligning with API requirements directly impacts your bottom line. It enables:

Team productivity improvement: Structured processes reduce errors, allowing your experts to focus on what matters most.

Operational efficiency: By streamlining inspection, maintenance, and reporting, your business minimizes downtime and maximizes uptime.

Cost savings: According to recent industry insights, companies implementing AI-driven compliance tools, such as intelligent chatbot support, cut administrative costs by up to 30%.

Without API compliance, the gap between you and your competitors only widens—making it harder to catch up once they’ve already established themselves as trusted leaders.

How PetroSync Helps You Lead with Confidence

This is where PetroSync becomes your partner in transformation. Instead of fearing the risk of falling behind, you can lead with assurance. PetroSync’s training programs are designed to turn compliance into an asset—equipping your team with the practical skills to adopt standards seamlessly.

Take the API 570 Piping Inspection Code, for instance. Staying updated with this standard ensures that your piping systems are not only compliant but also operating safely and efficiently. PetroSync provides structured API 570 training that bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving your team the confidence to implement changes effectively.

Instead of watching competitors take the lead, you’ll be positioning your business as the one clients can trust for safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

From Compliance to Competitive Edge

Think of compliance not as a burden but as your gateway to standing out. When your operations align with API standards, you’re not just compliant—you’re more productive, more efficient, and more cost-effective. Your clients will notice. Your competitors will notice. And most importantly, your team will feel empowered to deliver results with confidence.

Choosing PetroSync is not about joining a training program; it’s about leading your industry with assurance. By embracing compliance as a competitive edge, you ensure that your business is never left behind—but always moving ahead.

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

TopNext Construction Inc.: Building a Legacy of Excellence

 


 

TopNext Construction Inc. is a trusted name in the Philippine construction industry, specializing in residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Guided by its core values of integrity, professionalism, and excellence, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering projects on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.

With operations nationwide, Top Next Construction Inc. is committed not only to constructing world-class structures but also to supporting communities through local employment and sustainable practices. Its client-centered approach, combined with modern building technologies and skilled manpower, ensures high-quality and cost-efficient results.

At its core, the company fosters a culture of teamwork, discipline, and innovation, empowering its workforce to grow while meeting the demands of a dynamic industry.

Looking ahead, Top Next Construction Inc. is set to expand its role in shaping the nation’s future, staying true to its vision of building trust, building communities, and building the future.

TopNext Construction Inc.: Building a Legacy of Excellence

In the competitive world of construction, only a select few companies rise to prominence by combining innovation, reliability, and uncompromising quality. TopNext Construction Inc. has firmly established itself as one of those leaders—consistently delivering projects that shape skylines, strengthen communities, and stand the test of time.

Laying the Foundations of Success

Engr. Christian V. Escandor Founded the company together with his talented Mr. Alejandro Lopez Ayleon Jr and Jefferson Codiam, Nicolo Jonsay  as part of the Board Member. Mr. Escandor founded on the principles of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, TopNext Construction Inc. began with a vision: to provide world-class construction solutions while maintaining strong client relationships. Over the years, the company has expanded its expertise across residential, commercial, and industrial projects, earning a reputation as a trusted partner in building the nation’s future.

At the heart of its operations is Mr. Alejandro Ayleon, Administrative Officer, who ensures that the company’s systems, workforce, and resources operate at peak efficiency. His leadership contributes to maintaining Top Next Construction’s culture of teamwork, discipline, and innovation, empowering its people to thrive in a competitive industry.

Mr. Nicolo Jonsay, Visionary Officer – Known for his forward-thinking mindset, he drives the company’s long-term vision and ensures that TopNext Construction remains at the forefront of industry innovation and growth. His role focuses on setting the strategic direction and inspiring the team to pursue ambitious goals. 

Mr. Jefferson Codiam, Operations Manager Leads the execution of projects across the country. He manages day-to-day operations, ensures quality control, and coordinates teams on the ground. His expertise guarantees that all projects are completed on time, within budget, and at the highest standards of safety and quality.  

Together, they embody the company’s mission of “Building trust, building communities, and building the future.”

A Reputation Built on Quality

What sets TopNext Construction Inc. apart is its client-centered approach. Every project is treated as a collaboration—where ideas are carefully transformed into sustainable and cost-efficient solutions. The company’s team of skilled professionals and engineers integrates modern building practices and advanced technologies to ensure safety, durability, and precision.

From housing developments to large-scale infrastructure, each project is a testament to the company’s promise: “On time, on budget, beyond expectations.”

Nationwide Reach, Local Commitment

The company is also engaged in modern architectural design and fit-out services for condominium units and interior spaces, providing stylish, functional, and tailored solutions that meet the demands of urban living.

Operating nationwide, TopNext Construction Inc. continues to widen its footprint across the Philippines. Beyond building structures, the company is committed to supporting communities through local employment, sustainable construction practices, and meaningful partnerships.

Empowering People, Driving Innovation

At the core of the company’s strength is its people. TopNext Construction Inc. fosters a culture of teamwork, discipline, and innovation, ensuring employees are empowered to grow and excel. Through continuous training and development, the company builds not just projects—but a workforce capable of meeting tomorrow’s challenges.

Looking Ahead

As the Philippine construction industry continues to grow, Top Next Construction Inc. is poised to play an even greater role in shaping the nation’s future. With a firm commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction, the company stands ready to take on larger, more complex projects while staying true to its vision.

For Top Next Construction Inc., building is more than a profession—it is a legacy of trust, innovation, and progress.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

ASUENE APAC Wins Top Prize at PETRONAS “FutureTech 4.0 Demo Day”


 ASUENE Inc.’s overseas subsidiary, ASUENE APAC Pte. Ltd., has been named the winner of the Petronas Award in the Future of Energy category at FutureTech 4.0 Demo Day, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on August 25, 2025. Hosted by PETRONAS, Malaysia’s national oil company and one of ASEAN’s leading energy conglomerates, FutureTech 4.0 is a global accelerator program that supports high-growth startups across the energy, industrial, and materials sectors. Out of hundreds of applicants, only the top 20 startups were selected to pitch at Demo Day. ASUENE APAC was the sole Japan-based climate tech company chosen, and its cutting-edge solutions for energy efficiency and emissions reduction received top recognition.

About FutureTech 4.0 Demo Day and the Petronas Award

Now in its fourth year, FutureTech 4.0 attracted hundreds of applicants from across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, the U.S., Australia, and beyond. The 20 selected startups underwent months of intensive mentoring and market-entry support before presenting their innovations at Demo Day to an audience of investors, corporates, and industry experts.

ASUENE APAC’s Managing Director, Masaaki Hamada, delivered the company’s pitch, showcasing ASUENE—a carbon accounting platform designed to help businesses monitor and optimize energy use while cutting emissions. Competing in the Future of Energy track, which spotlights solutions that tackle critical challenges in energy efficiency and emissions reduction, ASUENE APAC was recognized for its innovative product design, strong global track record, and compelling presentation. The company ultimately secured the program’s highest honor, the Petronas Award.

More details: https://www.petronas.com/ventures/futuretech

Next Steps

Building on this achievement, ASUENE APAC will strengthen its collaborations with Malaysian enterprises and accelerate its growth across ASEAN. By leveraging PETRONAS’s extensive network, the company aims to partner with regional energy leaders and manufacturers to advance the implementation of sustainability management.

As a Japan-born climate tech innovator, ASUENE is committed to solidifying its position as Asia’s No.1 while rapidly expanding its support for green transformation (GX) and decarbonization initiatives worldwide.

About ASUENE

ASUENE is Asia’s leading carbon accounting cloud service for GHG measurement, reduction, and reporting. ASUENE offer Scope 1–3 emissions tracking and LCA calculations to consultation service for decarbonization initiatives and disclosures, including support for CDP, SBTi, CSRD, TCFD, and TNFD, and GHG reduction strategies. ASUENE is the No.1 carbon accounting cloud service in Japan, with the highest track record of corporate users (as of Oct. 2024, based on Tokyo Shoko Research, Ltd.).

ASUENE Company Profile

ASUENE Inc. is a leading Climate Tech company in Japan with the mission of ”Changing the world for the next generation”. We provide "ASUENE", a carbon accounting platform to measure, report and reduce carbon emissions of companies and we contribute to the net zero society.

This Press has also been published on VRITIMES 

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