SOCIAL MEDIA

Hong Kong Barista Wins DaVinci Gourmet Asia Pacific Championship 2025–26

Sunday, May 10, 2026


Asia’s coffee scene continues to push creative boundaries as some of the region’s top baristas gathered in Singapore for the DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship Asia Pacific Regionals 2025–26. Held during Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA), the competition celebrated innovation, storytelling, and technical mastery under this year’s theme, “Espresso Your Flavour.”

Emerging victorious was Hong Kong’s Hasting Ng, whose inventive coffee creations and refined technique earned him the title of Asia Pacific champion and a coveted spot at the global finals in Bangkok, Thailand.

Hasting Ng Claims Asia Pacific Barista Championship Title

After an intense day of competition, Hasting Ng impressed the judges with two standout beverages that showcased balance, creativity, and a clear personal identity in coffee craftsmanship.

The Hong Kong-based barista secured the regional championship title and will now represent Asia Pacific at the DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship Global Final scheduled during World of Coffee Bangkok on 9 May 2026.

At the global stage, Ng will compete against regional champions from other parts of the world, including Latin America winner Yasmim Rodrigues Sarandy da Silva and Middle East, India Subcontinent, and Africa champion Cetin Alpay Baskan.

“Espresso Your Flavour” Highlights Creativity and Individuality

This year’s competition theme, “Espresso Your Flavour,” encouraged baristas to express their unique personalities through coffee innovation, flavour combinations, and storytelling.

The championship unfolds across four stages, beginning with digital preliminary submissions before progressing through national competitions, regional finals, and the global championship round.

Building on the success of the inaugural 2024 edition, DaVinci Gourmet positioned this year’s competition around empowering baristas to showcase individuality while maintaining technical precision and beverage excellence.

The Asia Pacific regional finals featured eight national champions from countries including China, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Hong Kong.

Competitors were challenged to prepare two beverages within a strict time limit while demonstrating workflow efficiency, cleanliness, flavour harmony, presentation skills, and consistency.

Regional Finalists Showcase Asia’s Diverse Coffee Culture

One of the highlights of the competition was the strong influence of local culture and regional flavours incorporated into the beverages.

Hasting Ng presented a non-alcoholic spiced mulled coffee alongside a nasi lemak-inspired espresso drink infused with pandan, lychee, and rice syrup.

Vietnam’s Tuan Hai Khu earned first runner-up honors after impressing judges with a Kenyan espresso beverage paired with raspberry, hibiscus, and shortbread foam, as well as a tea-inspired signature drink.

Indonesia’s Michael Reinhard secured second runner-up with drinks inspired by urban botanicals and heritage flavours, while Philippine representative John Joseph C. San Juan delivered a memorable performance through tropical and nostalgic flavor profiles.

San Juan’s creations included an ube-based beverage inspired by halo-halo and banana cream, along with a milk-washed espresso drink layered with mango, peach, and passionfruit.

The competition demonstrated how coffee culture across Asia continues to evolve through storytelling, sustainability, and the creative reinterpretation of local ingredients.

Hasting Ng Reflects on His Winning Journey

Speaking after his victory, Hasting Ng shared that the championship represented an important milestone in his professional growth as a barista.

He explained that the competition allowed him to confidently explore his own style and create beverages rooted in simplicity, clarity, and balance. Ng also expressed pride in representing both Hong Kong and the Asia Pacific region at the upcoming global finals in Bangkok.

Beyond being a barista competitor, Ng is also known as a coach, trainer, and consultant. He was previously named first runner-up at the 2025 Hong Kong Coffee in Good Spirit Championship.

Mikael Jasin Returns as Special Guest and Global Finals Judge

Adding prestige to the event was the appearance of Mikael Jasin, who attended as a special guest and mentor during the regional competition.

As DaVinci Gourmet’s first brand ambassador for Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa, Jasin shared insights and encouragement with the competing baristas. He is also set to join the judging panel for the upcoming global finals.
DaVinci Gourmet Continues Supporting Beverage Innovation

According to Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager of Food Service Brands for Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, this year’s championship showcased a noticeable rise in the level of competition and creativity among participants.

She noted that the expanded competition reflected how beverage craftsmanship continues to evolve globally, with baristas increasingly using flavour and storytelling to communicate identity and creativity.

Through the Barista Craft Championship, DaVinci Gourmet continues investing in coffee professionals by providing a platform for innovation, education, and creative growth across the café and beverage industry.

As specialty coffee culture gains momentum across Asia, competitions like these highlight the growing influence of regional talent on the global coffee scene.

The DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship has become more than just a skills competition. It now serves as a platform for emerging coffee professionals to showcase creativity, cultural identity, and innovation in beverage development.

By spotlighting local ingredients, sustainable concepts, and evolving café trends, the championship reflects the future direction of specialty coffee across Asia Pacific and beyond.

With the global finals approaching in Bangkok, industry professionals and coffee enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how Asia Pacific’s best talent performs on the world stage.
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Indonesia-China QR Payment Linkage Expands Cross-Border Digital Commerce Through Alipay+


Cross-border digital payments in Asia continue to evolve as Indonesia and China officially launch a new QR payment connectivity initiative designed to simplify transactions for travelers, merchants, and businesses across both markets. Powered by Ant International’s Alipay+ and supported by UnionPay International, the partnership connects Indonesia’s QRIS system with China’s major payment ecosystems, creating a more seamless payment experience for millions of users.

The initiative marks another major step toward regional financial interoperability, helping local merchants tap into tourism-driven spending while strengthening digital trade and financial inclusion across Asia.

Indonesia and China Strengthen Cross-Border Payment Connectivity

The launch of the Indonesia-China QR connectivity was formally announced during an event at Bank Indonesia in Jakarta. Developed under the guidance of Bank Indonesia and the People's Bank of China, the collaboration links Indonesia’s Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) with widely used Chinese payment platforms.

Through this integration, users of Alipay and the UnionPay App can now make QR code payments at more than 40 million QRIS merchants throughout Indonesia. Most of these businesses are micro, small, and medium enterprises or MSMEs.

At the same time, Indonesian users with QRIS-enabled e-wallets and banking apps can scan more than 80 million Alipay and UnionPay QR codes across China.

The initiative creates a more convenient payment ecosystem for travelers while supporting the growing demand for cashless transactions between the two countries.

Boosting Opportunities for Indonesian MSMEs

One of the most significant advantages of the QRIS-China connectivity is the expanded access it provides to local merchants, especially small businesses that rely heavily on tourism and consumer spending.

Merchants in Indonesia do not need to install new hardware or adopt additional systems. Existing QRIS codes are already capable of accepting payments from Chinese visitors using their preferred digital wallets.

This simplified approach allows MSMEs to immediately benefit from increased international spending. With Chinese tourist arrivals in Indonesia reaching more than 1.34 million in 2025, the highest level seen in six years, the timing of the launch aligns with the country’s tourism recovery and digital transformation goals.

Since MSMEs account for over 99% of businesses in Indonesia, enabling frictionless transactions for foreign visitors could directly contribute to stronger merchant revenues and broader economic activity.

Advancing Real-Time Payment Interoperability Across Asia

The Indonesia-China QR payment linkage is also part of a wider regional effort to improve interoperability among national payment systems throughout Asia.

Alipay+ acts as the technical bridge that connects payment ecosystems across borders. Through its unified wallet gateway, users can continue paying through their familiar home e-wallets while merchants receive funds through their existing domestic infrastructure.

The initiative supports government-led efforts to create a more open and inclusive payment landscape that can accelerate trade, tourism, and digital economic growth throughout the region.

The partnership also builds on the ongoing expansion of QRIS cross-border connectivity initiatives within ASEAN and neighboring markets.

Alipay+ Highlights the Future of Cross-Border Payments

During the launch, Michael Guo, General Manager for Southeast Asia, South Asia, and ANZ at Alipay+, emphasized the importance of interoperability in shaping the future of digital payments.

Guo explained that interoperability serves as the foundation for the next generation of cross-border payment systems. He noted that Alipay+ helps connect national QR infrastructures with merchants and wallet users globally, allowing local businesses to participate more actively in the digital economy.

He also shared that the latest Indonesia-China launch reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to building a seamless and open payments ecosystem that benefits businesses, consumers, and economies alike.

Growing Digital Payment Adoption Across the Region

The pilot phase of the cross-border QRIS transactions already demonstrated encouraging growth, signaling increasing awareness and adoption of QR-based international payments among consumers.

As more merchants and digital wallet providers join the ecosystem, the initiative is expected to accelerate cashless payment adoption, improve financial inclusion, and strengthen economic connectivity between Indonesia, China, and the broader Asian region.

Currently, Alipay+ partners with 50 international e-wallets and banking apps, connecting more than 2 billion user accounts with over 150 million merchants worldwide, including multiple national payment schemes across Asia and beyond.

With digital commerce and tourism continuing to rebound across the region, initiatives like the Indonesia-China QR connectivity could play a major role in shaping the future of borderless transactions in Asia.

The launch of the Indonesia-China QR payment linkage highlights how digital financial infrastructure is becoming increasingly interconnected across Asia. For businesses, especially MSMEs, it creates easier access to international consumers without costly upgrades or operational complexity. For travelers, it removes friction from cross-border spending and improves convenience.

As regional economies continue embracing digital transformation, interoperable payment ecosystems like QRIS and Alipay+ may become essential drivers of tourism growth, trade efficiency, and financial inclusion in the years ahead.
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DMW and GCash Launch Buy Lokal By OFWs Program for Returning OFWs

Wednesday, May 6, 2026


Returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) often face a difficult transition after years of working abroad. While many come home hoping to build a more stable life with their families, reintegration can be challenging, especially when it comes to creating sustainable income opportunities.

To help address this, Department of Migrant Workers and GCash have officially launched the “Buy Lokal, By OFWs” Powered by GCash initiative, a program designed to support returning OFWs through entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and digital business tools.

The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony led by DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and GCash Head of Public Sector Cleo Celeste Santos, reinforcing both organizations’ shared commitment to helping OFWs rebuild their livelihoods back home.

Supporting Returning OFWs Through Entrepreneurship

The launch comes at a crucial time as the government continues strengthening support systems for OFWs amid ongoing global uncertainties and crises affecting overseas workers.

Alongside the launch was a trade fair featuring businesses owned by returning OFWs, showcasing products such as food items, handicrafts, and personal care products. The event highlighted the growing number of Filipinos turning to entrepreneurship as they transition back into local communities.

According to DMW Director IV Andrea Anolin, the initiative aims to provide long-term opportunities for OFWs to establish sustainable businesses and access broader markets.

“We have a long-term plan here, and the support of GCash is really something that we also want to make sustainable,” she shared.

Helping OFWs Build Sustainable Livelihoods

For many OFWs, returning home does not automatically guarantee financial stability. Challenges such as limited access to financial services, difficulty managing remittances, and lack of reintegration support can make it hard to start over.

GCash International Head of Product Julie Ann Abalos emphasized that the program is focused on helping OFWs create stable and sustainable livelihoods while spending more time with their families.

“The main goal of DMW and GCash is to help OFWs come home with stable livelihoods. We want them to be financially prepared with sustainable income, and have more time with their families here in the Philippines,” Abalos said.

What “Buy Lokal, By OFWs” Offers

The program combines entrepreneurship support with digital financial tools to help OFW-owned businesses grow more efficiently.

Among its major features are:

Digital Business Tools

OFW entrepreneurs can access tools that help manage business operations, digital payments, and online transactions more efficiently.

Marketplace Integration Through GHub

Businesses owned by returning OFWs will be featured through GHub, making their products easier to discover and support online.

Financial Literacy and Inclusion

The initiative also promotes financial education to help OFWs better manage earnings, savings, and long-term business planning.

Marketing and Co-Branding Support

Participating businesses will receive branding and promotional support to improve visibility and customer reach.

Access to Government Services

The program also connects OFWs to services from Social Security System, Pag-IBIG Fund, and PhilHealth to help support long-term financial security.

Digital Financial Support for OFWs Abroad

While the initiative focuses heavily on reintegration, GCash also continues expanding services for Filipinos currently working overseas through GCash Overseas and GCash International Transfers.

The recently launched GCash International Transfers service allows users to send money directly from their GCash wallet to overseas bank accounts, cards, and e-wallets across 16 countries, with further expansion planned.

To further support OFWs affected by ongoing regional tensions, GCash also waived transaction fees until April 30, 2026 for users in several Middle Eastern countries including:
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
  • Oman
  • Bahrain
  • Israel
  • Lebanon
  • Jordan

Eligible transaction fees are automatically returned through in-app cashback, helping overseas Filipinos stay connected to their families without additional financial burden.

Reintegration Through Opportunity

More than just a financial partnership, the collaboration between DMW and GCash reflects a broader effort to empower OFWs beyond remittances by creating pathways toward entrepreneurship, financial independence, and long-term reintegration.

As more Filipino workers return home seeking stability and new beginnings, programs like “Buy Lokal, By OFWs” help provide practical support that allows them to transform years of hard work abroad into sustainable opportunities locally.
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Narra Park Residences Avia Turnovers Begin: Alsons Dev Brings Its Vision to Life in Sarangani

Tuesday, May 5, 2026


For many aspiring homeowners, there is nothing quite like the moment a vision finally becomes reality. That milestone has officially arrived at Narra Park Residences Avia, as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation completes the first batch of home turnovers within its growing township in Sarangani.

This marks a significant step not just for the company, but for early buyers who are now transitioning into homeowners.

A Milestone Moment for First Homeowners

The turnover ceremony was highlighted by the community’s first Buyers Appreciation Day, where homeowners gathered for updates, activities, and a glimpse into what life in the estate will look like.

For residents like Catherine Cuico, the experience reinforced confidence in their investment. She shared that the development already feels like a place worth recommending for both family living and long-term value.


According to Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, the milestone goes beyond simply handing over units. It represents the beginning of a thoughtfully planned community designed for sustainable living.

Inside Avia Estate: A Growing Township in Sarangani

Narra Park Residences Avia is part of the larger Avia Estate, a 121-hectare master-planned development in Alabel, Sarangani. It also marks Alsons Development and Investment Corporation’s first major township expansion outside Davao.

To date, 59 homes have already been completed, with more developments underway to support a growing residential community.

Building a Community Beyond Homes

What sets Avia Estate apart is its focus on creating a well-rounded living environment.


Key developments already in place include:
  • The Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex
  • The Abba’s Orchard Montessori School
  • A megatent for community events
  • A football field for recreation

Upcoming additions such as a commercial area, pickleball court, and expanded community facilities aim to further enhance everyday living for residents.

Designed for Long-Term Living and Value

The continued development of Narra Park Residences Avia reflects a consistent strategy from Alsons Development and Investment Corporation: build communities that are not just livable today, but valuable in the long run.

With its expansion beyond urban centers, the company is bringing the same level of planning and quality to emerging locations, giving more Filipinos access to thoughtfully designed residential spaces.

For those considering property investments outside major cities, developments like Avia Estate highlight a growing trend: master-planned communities in emerging provinces.

These offer more space and affordability, integrated lifestyle amenities, and strong potential for long-term value appreciation.

As more homeowners settle in, the vision of a thriving, connected community is steadily taking shape.
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Visayas Power Modernization: How Schneider Electric Is Powering Sustainable Growth


As the Visayas region positions itself as the Philippines’ next major economic hub, one challenge continues to stand in the way of sustained growth: energy reliability. With rising demand and ongoing supply constraints, businesses are now looking for smarter, more sustainable ways to operate.

This is where Schneider Electric steps in, offering a forward-thinking approach that combines infrastructure upgrades with intelligent energy management.

Why the Visayas Needs Urgent Power Modernization

Recent data highlights the urgency. During last year’s dry season, electricity prices in the Visayas spiked from PHP 4.39/kWh to PHP 6.40/kWh. This surge was driven by a combination of higher demand due to extreme heat and supply disruptions caused by planned and forced outages.

According to the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, the region remains the most vulnerable grid in the country. Its reliance on imported power from Luzon and Mindanao leaves it exposed to outages and limited reserve capacity.

For businesses, this translates to higher operational costs and increased uncertainty.

Schneider Electric’s Dual Approach to Energy Efficiency

To address these challenges, Schneider Electric is implementing a two-pronged strategy:

1. Strengthening Power Supply

On the infrastructure side, the company works with energy providers to modernize generation and distribution systems using its EcoStruxure platform.

This integrated system enhances operational efficiency, real-time monitoring, cybersecurity and safety, and faster, data-driven decision-making.

The result is a more resilient and reliable power supply that can better handle growing demand.

2. Optimizing Energy Demand

On the consumption side, businesses are empowered with digital tools like Energy and Power Management Systems (EPMS).

These solutions help monitor energy usage across facilities, automate systems like lighting and HVAC, and identify inefficiencies and reduce waste.

For industrial operations, technologies such as variable frequency drives and soft starters improve machine performance while lowering electricity consumption.

Smarter Energy Use Means Better Business Outcomes

By adopting this end-to-end approach, businesses in the Visayas can reduce energy costs, improve operational efficiency, meet sustainability goals, and enhance long-term competitiveness.

These benefits are especially critical as more investments flow into the region, increasing pressure on existing energy systems.

Collaboration Is Key to a Resilient Energy

Beyond technology, Schneider Electric emphasizes the importance of collaboration among industry players, government units, and local communities.

According to Ireen Catane, building a smarter energy system requires a holistic approach, from improving generation capacity to rethinking how energy is used across industries.

This collective effort will be key to ensuring that the Visayas can grow without compromising reliability or affordability.

Powering the Future of the Visayas

With continued innovation and strong partnerships, Schneider Electric is helping shape a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape in the Philippines.

As the Visayas moves closer to becoming a major economic powerhouse, smarter energy systems will play a crucial role in supporting that transformation.
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BIAP at 38: How the Beverage Industry’s Collective Voice Shapes Growth in the Philippines


In an industry shaped by changing regulations, sustainability demands, and evolving consumer habits, collaboration is no longer optional. It is essential. For nearly four decades, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines has served as that unifying force, bringing together major players to move the sector forward with a shared purpose.

As BIAP celebrates its 38th anniversary, its role has never been more relevant in guiding one of the country’s most dynamic industries.

A Unified Voice in a Rapidly Changing Industry

From bottled water and juices to soft drinks and energy beverages, the beverage industry is deeply embedded in everyday Filipino life. But beyond convenience and refreshment, it also plays a major role in manufacturing, employment, and economic activity.

Established in 1988, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines was created to bring together companies across this diverse landscape. Its mission is to provide a platform for collaboration, enabling businesses to align on key issues and engage more effectively with government and stakeholders.

In today’s environment, where challenges are increasingly complex, this kind of unified representation helps ensure that industry perspectives contribute to balanced and practical policymaking.

Raising Standards Across the Sector

Beyond advocacy, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines plays a key role in promoting quality and safety across the industry.

Through shared standards, good manufacturing practices, and a code of ethics, BIAP helps ensure that products consistently meet expectations. This alignment strengthens consumer trust while supporting long-term sustainability in operations.

The association also facilitates discussions on important regulatory matters, including taxation, product standards, and broader manufacturing policies, ensuring open dialogue between the private sector and government.

A Platform for Knowledge and Collaboration

Another key function of BIAP is knowledge sharing. Through seminars, workshops, and technical exchanges, members stay informed about industry trends, innovations, and regulatory updates.

This collaborative approach allows companies to adapt more effectively to change while maintaining consistent standards across the sector.

Powered by Industry Leaders

The strength of the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines lies in its diverse membership. It brings together leading companies such as San Miguel Corporation, Nestlé Philippines, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, among others.

Leading the organization is Juan Lorenzo Tañada, who continues to guide the association in fostering meaningful engagement between industry stakeholders and the communities they serve.

Looking Ahead: A More Responsible and Collaborative Future

As the beverage industry continues to evolve, the Beverage Industry Association of the Philippines remains focused on enabling responsible growth.

Its priorities include strengthening partnerships across sectors, supporting innovation and sustainability, and promoting responsible industry practices.

After 38 years, BIAP’s mission goes beyond representation. It is about shaping how the industry grows, ensuring it remains aligned with national priorities while continuing to serve Filipino consumers.

For businesses and consumers alike, this means a more reliable, responsible, and forward-looking beverage industry.
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Jollibee Group Wins Back-to-Back 3G Sustainability Awards and Secures First Service Excellence Championship


The Jollibee Group continues to strengthen its leadership in sustainability and customer experience, earning major global recognition once again. This 2026, the company received the 3G Excellence in Sustainability Reporting Award for the second consecutive year, while also taking home its first-ever 3G Championship Award for Service Excellence.

These milestones highlight how the brand is evolving beyond great food, focusing on transparency, accountability, and meaningful impact.

Recognized for Transparent and Credible Sustainability Reporting

The awards were presented by Cambridge International Finance Advisory through the prestigious 3G Awards, which recognize companies that prioritize governance, sustainability, and social responsibility.

For Jollibee Group, the recognition reinforces its commitment to delivering sustainability reports that are not only transparent but also aligned with global standards.

This marks the second straight year the company has earned the Excellence in Sustainability Reporting award, building on its growing list of international recognitions.

The “Joy for Tomorrow” Agenda in Action

At the core of these achievements is the company’s sustainability framework, Joy for Tomorrow, launched in 2022.

This global agenda is built on three key pillars: Food, People, and Planet.

Through these pillars, the company focuses on critical areas such as food quality and safety, responsible sourcing, employee welfare, community development, and environmental initiatives like waste reduction and water management.

The recognition signals that these efforts are not only progressing but are also measurable and credible on a global scale.

A First: Championship Award for Service Excellence

Beyond sustainability, Jollibee Group also achieved a new milestone by winning the 3G Championship Award for Service Excellence 2026.

This award recognizes consistently high service standards, dedication to exceeding customer expectations, and innovation in customer experience.

According to Pepot Miñana, the dual recognition reflects the collective effort of teams across different markets in advancing both sustainability and service quality.

Raising the Bar for Purpose-Driven Growth

With multiple 3G Awards under its belt, including previous wins in sustainability reporting and community development, Jollibee Group continues to set higher standards in the industry.

More than just recognition, these awards serve as motivation to keep improving how the company reports its sustainability progress, delivers customer service, and drives long-term impact.

For consumers, this means supporting a brand that is actively working toward better practices, not just in business, but in the communities it serves.
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