Top 10 Lifestyle Upgrades to Kickstart Your New Year

The New Year always feels like a reset, inspiring many of us to upgrade our lifestyle or improve our homes. According to Yernar Ashimov, head of POS Key Accounts of Skyro, a reliable SEC-registered lending app in the country, “Filipinos often adopt a fresh mindset, seeing it as an ideal moment to improve lifestyles, upgrade homes, and invest in personal growth.”

If you’re looking for a little inspiration as you step into the year, here are 10 trending items worth considering as you welcome the year ahead:

1. Home Appliances

The New Year is the perfect time to upgrade your home appliances. Choosing energy-efficient models can help lower electricity and maintenance costs while making daily chores more convenient and efficient. Smart and modern appliances can also improve comfort and overall quality of life at home.

For gamers and entertainment lovers, investing in a television with a high refresh rate and excellent picture quality can greatly enhance viewing and gaming experiences. We recently got a TCL C755 QD-Mini LED 4K TV and we're very happy with it. 

2. Home Cooling

Start the year with cool comfort by investing in a modern air conditioning system. Today’s units not only cool the air but also help improve indoor air quality through advanced filtration, removing dust, allergens, and even bacteria for a healthier living environment.

3. Smartphones

Filipinos are willing to spend more on smartphones because they represent connection, practicality, and identity. These devices are essential tools for communication, education, work, and social interaction, making them an important part of everyday life.

Though we are deeply immersed in the Apple ecosystem and would recommend their products, we still suggest exploring other brands and phone models that may be better suited to your specific needs and lifestyle. Choosing a gadget doesn’t have to be about following trends or owning the latest release; what matters most is finding a device whose features, performance, and price align with how you actually use it. By focusing on functionality and long-term value rather than hype, you can make a smarter and more practical choice.

4. Laptops and Tablets

Aside from smartphones, laptops and tablets can strongly support your New Year goals and resolutions. They help boost productivity and personal or career growth, whether through online learning, digital wellness apps, or creative work.

5. Fitness Equipment

Many people set health- and fitness-related goals at the start of the year. Investing in basic fitness equipment makes exercise more accessible, consistent, and convenient, helping individuals stay committed to an active lifestyle.

6. Home Office Essentials

As hybrid work continues, more Filipinos are upgrading their home offices and study spaces to prioritize comfort and productivity. Ergonomic furniture, proper lighting, and functional accessories can greatly improve focus and work efficiency.

7. Self-care Products

With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s important to take time to reset and decompress. Creating a small self-care space at home with relaxation and wellness items can help reduce stress and promote better mental health.

8. Wellness Products

Welcome the year with better health and a positive mindset. Home health devices, air purifiers, and healthier food choices can support overall well-being and help families stay prepared and proactive about their health.

9. Furniture for Home Improvement

If you are planning to refresh your living space, consider multifunctional furniture and better storage solutions. Minimalist designs and practical layouts can help create a more open, organized, and clutter-free home.

10. Hobbies and Personal Growth Items

Beyond material upgrades, the New Year also encourages Filipinos to invest in personal development. This may include exploring new hobbies, enrolling in online courses, using fitness trackers, or engaging in activities that promote creativity and learning. Entertainment systems and gaming consoles can also support mental well-being by reducing stress, boosting mood, and keeping the mind active and socially connected so  you might want to consider getting a PS5. They may even help support memory and cognitive skills, which can contribute to long-term brain health.

Make upgrading easy

This New Year, Skyro remains committed to provide hope, happiness and financial support to Filipinos, helping them upgrade their lifestyles with flexible installment payment options.

Yernar stresses that customers can enjoy 0% interest via the Skyro Zero Plan and other installment terms with low or even zero down payments. Skyro also offers the SkyroCredit, a revolving credit line that customers can use, repay, and use again in 675,000 merchants nationwide with QR Ph.

“Exclusive merchant deals on gadgets, appliances, and home essentials make upgrades even more rewarding. These promotions allow Filipinos to start the year with smarter spending, meaningful lifestyle improvements, and memorable experiences, without straining their budgets. With Skyro, upgrading for the New Year is accessible, convenient, and budget-friendly,” he concluded.

Launched in August 2022, Skyro has quickly earned recognition for its innovative digital financial services. It is now present in over 6,000 partner merchant stores nationwide with more than 1,000,000 loan customers.

Start your lifestyle upgrades this New Year with Skyro. Experience flexible loans for your lifestyle and home essentials through the Skyro Zero Plan. The app is available for free on the Apple Store and Google Play, or visit skyro.ph and follow its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Your Next Literary Break: Apply to the 25th IYAS La Salle National Writers’ Workshop

Calling all poets, fictionists, playwrights, and creative nonfiction writers: the country’s longest-running national writers’ workshop is opening its doors once again.

The 25th IYAS La Salle National Writers’ Workshop is now accepting applications, with the deadline set on January 30, 2026. The milestone edition of the workshop will be held from May 11 to 16, 2026 at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, bringing together emerging voices from across the Philippines for a week of intensive writing, critique, and community.

Organized by the University of St. La Salle in partnership with the DLSU Bienvenido N. Santos Creative Writing Center, IYAS continues its tradition of nurturing literary talent in multiple Philippine languages. The workshop is supported by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts, the Constantino Foundation, and the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities. Serving as workshop director is National Artist nominee John Iremil Teodoro, with Tanya Lopez as project director.

This year’s distinguished panel of writers and critics includes Marjorie Evasco, Rayboy Pandan, Grace Monte de Ramos, Susan Lara, Isidoro Cruz, Adrian Ho, and Elsa Martinez Coscoluella, with Coscoluella and Pandan also serving on the panel.

The fellowship screening committee accepts original, unpublished work in Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Kinaray-a, Filipino, and English. Fellowships are awarded by genre and by language, with special consideration given to works that explore human relationships with the environment. Twelve fellows will be selected, each receiving a travel subsidy in addition to the opportunity to participate in the workshop.

Applicants may submit in only one genre and one language, choosing from:

• Six poems

• Two short stories

• Two one-act plays

• Two creative nonfiction pieces

All entries must be original, unpublished, and not previously or concurrently submitted to other workshops. Manuscripts should be in DOCX format, double-spaced, using 12-point font.

In addition to the creative work, applicants must submit:

• A one- to two-page resume in PDF format with an ID photo and complete contact details

• A cover letter in PDF addressed to Dr. John Iremil E. Teodoro, explaining the reasons for applying

All application materials should be submitted through this Google Form:

https://forms.gle/jRhTvzoHSbERvGbp7

For further inquiries, you may contact the organizers at iyas@usls.edu.ph.

Whether you write in the languages of the regions or in English, and whether your work speaks of landscapes, memory, or the urgent realities of our changing environment, IYAS 2026 offers a rare space to grow, be challenged, and join a community of writers shaping Philippine literature today.

LUMOS DAYSTAR Projector Review: A Projector That Performs Brilliantly even with the Lights On (Sample Video and Audio Included)

Website: www.lumosprojector.ph/daystar

If you’ve ever tried giving a presentation in a bright room or attempted a movie night without turning your whole place into a cave, trust me - I get you. We’ve had the same struggles.

That’s why we were really curious when we heard about the LUMOS DAYSTAR, a projector that claims to work beautifully even with the lights on. We wanted to see if it could actually handle real-life, everyday brightness.

If you're new to the brand, LUMOS is a Singaporean company known for making high-quality projectors that don’t break the bank. And honestly, the LUMOS DAYSTAR feels like their best one so far. It’s their most complete model. It is bright enough for daylight, great for entertainment, and surprisingly useful for work, too.

After using it for a while, we can say it really does live up to its name. Here’s how the LUMOS DAYSTAR performed in our space and why it impressed us.

Watch this video for our detailed review of the LUMOS DAYSTAR. 

D — Daylight-Ready Display

The name DAYSTAR isn’t just catchy. It’s literal.

This projector is purpose-built for daytime use. Dark curtains? Not required. Whether you’re binge-watching, presenting in a well-lit office, or projecting outdoors under the afternoon sun, the display remains clear and vibrant.

Key Display Features:

• Native 1080p resolution (with 4K support)

• 5000:1 contrast ratio

• Bright LED light source

• Crisp text + bold colors even with ambient light

From Netflix marathons to no-nonsense presentations, the LUMOS DAYSTAR absolutely beams.

A — Auto Keystone + Auto Focus

Manual adjustments? Nope. DAYSTAR is here to make life easier.

Thanks to its built-in camera system, the projector automatically fixes your screen shape and focus even if placed at an angle or moved slightly. Great for non-techy users and setups that aren’t perfectly centered.

You can even project behind a glass window or through your window screen (yes, really!) and it still delivers an impressive display. 

Y — Your Personal Hub for Entertainment & Productivity

This isn’t just a projector. It works similar to a smart TV and mini computer in one. Powered by Android 9.0, you get built-in streaming apps like:

• Netflix

• YouTube

• Disney+

• Amazon Prime 

• And access to even more apps via Google Play Store so, the possibilities are endless.  

You can also mirror your phone for gaming, connect your PS5, cast your laptop for meetings, or run presentations straight from the projector.

And here’s something that we really love.. 

The LUMOS DAYSTAR supports Microsoft Office files natively, such as PPT, Excel, Word, PDF. You can even connect a keyboard and mouse for quick edits.

Plus, retro gamers? Yup. There’s something for you too. 

With 16GB storage + 1GB RAM, you get enough space for essential apps and light productivity. 

S — Screen Size Flexibility

Tiny room or wide space? The LUMOS DAYSTAR adapts.

• Projects from 45 inches up to 200 inches, all with just a minimum 2-meter throw distance. 

• 4K supported display

• Works in bedrooms, living rooms, small condo spaces, offices, or outdoor setups

• Short throw ratio of 1.56:1 for bigger screens, even in tight areas

Whether you're watching a movie or presenting to a team, this projector knows how to go big.

T — Tough Build & Long Lamp Life

Despite weighing only 2.5 kg, the DAYSTAR is surprisingly sturdy.

But its real strength is the lamp - 30,000 to 50,000 hours of LED lamp life. That's 3x longer than other standard lamp projectors. Now,  you don't need to worry about constant bulb replacement. 

That’s years of use—no more stressing about expensive bulb replacements. Place it on a stand, mount it on a wall, or suspend it from the ceiling—it’s ready for the long run.

A — All-in Connectivity

You want options? LUMOS DAYSTAR gives you options. 

It comes with:

• HDMI

• USB

• 3.5mm audio jack

• RJ45 LAN port (for faster wired internet!)

• Bluetooth for audio enhancements

• Wireless screen mirroring for iOS and Android

So whether you're gaming, streaming, presenting, or photo-casting, this projector plays well with others.

R — Rich Audio With Dual Speakers

Unlike projectors that sound like tiny tin cans, the LUMOS DAYSTAR brings oomph. Its dual 4Ω 3W speakers deliver clear, surprisingly full audio, which is great for casual movie nights without external speakers.

------------------------

The LUMOS D.A.Y.S.T.A.R. Smart Projector delivers exactly what the acronym promises:

• Daylight-Ready Display

• Auto Keystone + Auto Focus

• Your Personal Entertainment & Productivity Hub

• Screen Size Flexibility

• Tough Build + Long Lamp Life

• All-in Connectivity

• Rich Audio

And the best part? It starts at only ₱15,999 with a 1-year local warranty.

You can order it directly from the LUMOS website here:

👉 www.lumosprojector.ph/daystar

With over 2,000 5-star reviews from Filipino users over the past 3 years, it’s clear the LUMOS DAYSTAR isn’t just bright. It’s brilliant.

If you’ve been wanting a projector that works anytime: morning, afternoon, or night, then the LUMOS DAYSTAR is a solid pick.

Rex Education Honored with Two Major Wins at the 47th CMMA Awards

Rex Education achieved another significant milestone with two major recognitions at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards held on November 19, 2025 at the Citystate Hotel Tower in Ermita, Manila. The awards highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to producing educational content that informs, inspires, and nurtures the mind and the heart of every Filipino learner.

REX received the Best Children’s Magazine award for The Bread Basket and Best Editorial Cartoon award for the piece published in Sinag/The Catalyst titled “Mass Deportation of Undocumented Filipinos in the US.” These honors emphasize the importance of educational materials that blend academic relevance with creative and responsible storytelling and meaningful social reflection.

In the field of education, values-driven and thoughtfully crafted media remain essential in helping learners understand themselves, their communities, and the world around them. Publications such as The Bread Basket support children in developing empathy and curiosity through stories that speak to their experiences. Editorial works like the award-winning cartoon in Sinag/The Catalyst encourage students to think critically about current issues in ways that are clear and accessible. These contributions uplift, guide, and help build character of young readers toward becoming informed and responsible citizens.

These recognitions serve as a quiet but powerful affirmation of the work that happens every day within REX’s creative and editorial teams. Behind each publication are authors, editors, illustrators, and partners who approach their craft with purpose and a deep understanding of the role education plays in shaping learners and communities. Their passion allows REX to produce content that inspires curiosity, encourages reflection, and fosters conversations that lead to growth.

The Catholic Mass Media Awards have long recognized media that uplifts, guides, and forms values, and to be counted among its honorees reinforces REX's commitment to continually raise the standard of learning materials in the Philippines and to contribute to the development of content that strengthens values formation.

REX extends its heartfelt thanks to the Catholic Mass Media Awards for this recognition and to the entire REX community whose dedication makes achievements like these possible. As the organization continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower Filipino learners and help shape a future rooted in truth, compassion, and lifelong learning.

Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” unites over 8,000 volunteers across the Philippines for cleaner seas

Century Tuna is bringing back its award-winning “Saving Our Seas” campaign for the 3rd year and it’s bigger than ever. As the Philippines’ No. 1 tuna brand, Century Tuna continues its mission to protect our oceans, expand marine conservation, and promote a plastic circular economy across the country.

This 2025, the movement is making its biggest wave yet by growing from 1 site to 6 cleanup locations nationwide: Manila, Batangas, Subic, Davao, Zamboanga, and General Santos City.

A Movement Powered by Communities

The Saving Our Seas campaign gained new momentum this year during the fan meet of brand ambassador Park Seo Joon, where fans from across the Philippines took part by donating plastic bottles to support the campaign. This inspiring support pushed Century Tuna to expand its cleanup efforts and involve more communities, organizations, and volunteers.

What started as a single coastal cleanup in Batangas in 2023 has now grown into a nationwide force. This year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day saw over 8,200 volunteers come together up from just 205 last year. Volunteers came from partner organizations such as local government units, diving groups, the Philippine Marine Corps, Century Tuna Superbods, CPFI employees, and many more passionate supporters.

Turning Plastic into Purpose

“We rely on the sea. Without healthy oceans, we have nothing,” said Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager for the Branded Tuna Division of Century Pacific Food Inc. He emphasized that Saving Our Seas is not just about one-day cleanups, but about creating long-term solutions through the Aling Tindera program and the plastic circular economy, where collected plastic can be exchanged for income and livelihood opportunities.

This year, the campaign aims to increase its plastic collection by 33%, supported by new and stronger partnerships with groups like Friends of HOPE, LGUs, DENR, SBMA, and brand collaborators such as Shakey’s, Vita Coco, Beach Hut, and Peri-Peri.

Through these united efforts, 1,386 kilograms of plastic waste were collected this year, significantly more than the 357 kilograms collected last year.

More Than a Cleanup. It’s a Movement

In just three years, the Saving Our Seas campaign has:

✅ Collected over 100 metric tons of waste

✅ Expanded from 1 to 6 sites nationwide

✅ Inspired and mobilized thousands of volunteers

“This movement is about community, livelihood, and working together for a cleaner and brighter future,” said Ray Guinoo, Assistant Vice President and Marketing Director for Local Tuna Operations.

Launched in 2023, the Saving Our Seas campaign continues to highlight the urgent issue of plastic pollution through coastal and reef cleanups and environmental education in school, encouraging more Filipinos to protect marine life and take part in preserving our oceans.

Learn how you can join the movement:

🌊 Website: https://savingourseas.centurytuna.ph

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna

📸 Instagram: @centurytunasuperbods

Samsung brings back Solve for Tomorrow to the Philippines this 2025

Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow marks its much-anticipated return to the Philippines, celebrating 15 years of empowering STEM students worldwide through technology and innovation. With the support of the Department of Education (DepEd), Samsung invites the next generation of Filipino innovators to take part in this global movement through bold, tech-driven solutions to real-world challenges.

Samsung, a global leader and pioneer in innovation, continues to champion inclusive access to technology and education through impactful programs that empower the youth, with a long-standing commitment to advancing STEM learning.

Now in its 15th year globally and its 3rd year in the country, Solve for Tomorrow opens its doors once again to Grades 8 to 10 students from all government-managed Science High Schools across the Philippines, with Samsung awarding over PHP 2 Million total worth of cash prizes and Samsung devices for the winning schools, teams, and teacher advisers.

Got a Big Idea? Here’s How to Join the Solve for Tomorrow 2025

This year, teams will be composed of up to four (4) students and one (1) teacher-adviser. Together, they are encouraged to bring forward creative, tech-powered solutions that make a real difference in their communities.

Teams should identify a local community or environmental sustainability problem they want to solve with the themes: Environmental Sustainability through Technology, Social Change through Tech and Sport, and Solving Community Problems with Artificial Intelligence (AI).

For the first theme, Environmental Sustainability through Technology, students can leverage STEM principles to reuse, recycle, and regenerate materials into high-value products — promoting sustainability and reducing waste in design, production, and consumption.

The second theme, Social Change through Tech and Sport, encourages students to harness sport and technology to drive education, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, creating better opportunities and brighter futures for young people.

The final theme, Solving Community Problems with AI, invites students to apply AI in developing innovative, practical solutions to real challenges faced by their communities, fostering critical problem-solving, social responsibility, and tech-driven impact at the local level.

Students must develop a STEM proposal that presents their solution in a maximum of 2,500 words and not more than 7 pages for Word format, or 5 slides for PowerPoint format. Proposals must be submitted as a PDF file, not exceeding 40 MB.

The Deadline for Entry submissions is on October 26, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

Entries will be evaluated based on design innovation, relevance to the community, feasibility, STEM integration, sustainability, and clarity of proposal.

The top 10 shortlisted entries will be announced on November 11, 2025, and will receive mentoring from Samsung representatives to refine their solutions. These teams will then present their final proposals to a distinguished board of judges on December 3, 2025. The top three teams will be announced on December 9, 2025, and awarded by Samsung Philippines.

More than PHP 2 Million Worth of Prizes Up for Grabs!

The top 10 teams for this year’s Solve for Tomorrow competition will receive more than PHP 2 million worth of Samsung devices and cash prizes. The Grand Prize winner will receive Php 500,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 250,000 worth of Samsung devices for the students and their teacher, Php 100,000 in cash for the team members, and Php 30,000 in cash for their teacher.

Meanwhile, the Second Prize winner will take home Php 300,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 250,000 worth of Samsung devices for the team and their teacher, Php 70,000 in cash for the team members, and Php 25,000 in cash for the teacher.

Finally, the Third Prize winner will receive Php 200,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, Php 250,000 worth of Samsung devices for the team and their teacher, Php 50,000 in cash for the team, and Php 15,000 in cash for the teacher.

The remaining teams in the top 10 will receive Php 15,000 in cash for their team and Php 5,000 for their teacher.

Empowering Future Innovators

Since its launch in 2010, Solve for Tomorrow has evolved from a simple essay contest into a full-scale innovation platform. For 15 years, the program has equipped students with hands-on experience and design thinking tools, guiding them in finding real-world solutions through the power of tech, reflecting Samsung’s mission to make technology accessible for all while nurturing the next generation of “next-gen heroes”.

This year’s competition includes a bold new focus on the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), continuing Samsung’s goal to inspire students to imagine, create, and lead a better tomorrow.

In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of daily life, offering new ways to work and live more efficiently. This growing integration of AI presents a unique opportunity for young Filipinos, adept at utilizing AI tools like smartphones and voice assistants, to develop impactful solutions for pressing community challenges. Hence, this year's "Solve for Tomorrow" initiative will prioritize AI-driven solutions for real-world issues, alongside fostering sustainability through the power of technology, and social change through the strategic application of both technology and sport. 

To participate in this year’s Solve for Tomorrow, please visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow/

Win a Hybrid Sedan, E-Bike & More in American Standard’s 150th Anniversary Raffle with Wilcon!

For 150 years, American Standard has been part of homes around the world, helping families create spaces filled with comfort, life, and love through its trusted bathroom and kitchen products. From simple routines to cherished family moments, the brand has stood the test of time with quality, innovation, and design that enrich everyday living.

As American Standard celebrates its milestone 150th anniversary, the brand honors this remarkable journey with a grand gesture of gratitude to its loyal Filipino customers – the American Standard 150 Raffle Promotion at all Wilcon branches nationwide. Shoppers have a chance to win coveted prizes, including a Hybrid Car, a Honda EM1 Electric Vehicle, a Xiaomi Mi Smart Electronic Bike, and American Standard products.

“American Standard 150 Raffle Promotion is our way of celebrating this milestone and thanking customers who have supported us across the years,” says Hermie Fernando Limbo, Country Leader, LIXIL Water Technology, Philippines.

Running until February 28, 2026, the promo entitles customers to one (1) raffle entry for every Php 10,000 single-receipt purchase of American Standard products at participating Wilcon branches. Exciting prizes include: 1 unit BYD Hybrid Electric Sedan, 1 unit Honda EM1 Electric Vehicle, 1 unit Xiaomi Mi e-bike, and 150 units of American Standard products (Duostix Hygiene Spray, Smart Washer Manual Bidet, and Neo Modern 3-Way Rain Shower).

Winners will be notified via their registered email and contact number and will also be announced on Wilcon’s official Facebook page. For complete details, visit Wilcon Depot PH.

To mark its 150th anniversary, American Standard is also bringing together its valued trade partners, architects, designers, and media friends for a Special Partners’ Night themed “Inspired by Life.” The event will feature tributes to the brand’s heritage, inspiring showcases, and a glimpse into the future as American Standard ushers in a new era under its refreshed brand claim: “Life. Love. Home”.

For generations, American Standard has been a trusted companion in homes, supporting personal moments of self-care, family routines, and connections that matter most. As it steps into its next chapter, the brand remains committed to designing products that make everyday living better, continuing a legacy that began 150 years ago.

Top Filipino Motivational Speaker and Business Leaders Headline Leadership Conference 2025

Top Filipino Motivational Speaker Sha Nacino will be among the top business leaders, and executives gathering at the Fearless Possibilities Leadership Conference 2025. Sha Nacino was also named one of the World’s Top 30 Motivational Speakers for 2025 by the Global Gurus. Scheduled for September 10, 2025 at One Shangri-La Place, Ortigas, the event will bring together 150 CEOs, CHROs, HR leaders, and senior executives to explore the theme “The Power of Human Connection in the Age of AI.”

The distinguished speaker lineup includes Andrew Matthews (international bestselling author), Eugene S. Acevedo (former CEO, RCBC), Luz Mercurio (Chief People and Culture Officer, Monde Nissin), Tonichi Parekh (VP, Concentrix), Jack Madrid (CEO, IBPAP), Nerissa Berba (Chief People Officer, Security Bank), and Delphine Ang (Leadership Coach & Speaker). With a mix of Top Business Leaders and thought leaders, the conference is designed to empower executives to navigate the challenges of leading in a disruptive age.

According to Top Filipino motivational speaker Sha Nacino:

“Whether you’re managing a team or leading an organization, it’s important to learn how to build trust, spark engagement, and transform culture.”

Co-presented by the Fearless Possibilities Leadership Podcast and BI WORLDWIDE, the event highlights that even in an era of AI, leaders who can connect deeply and authentically with people will always stand out.

The Fearless Possibilities Leadership Conference 2025 is made possible through the support of its sponsors Candid Coffee, Yorokobi, Batanes Travel and Tours, Kalap Events Services, and media partners Manila Bulletin, WhenInManila.com, SeminarPhilippines.com and My Metro Lifestyle. The event is also supported by partner organizations, including the American Chamber of Commerce and other valued partners.

With a powerhouse lineup of executives, thought leaders, and a top motivational speaker, the conference is set to deliver powerful insights and practical strategies that will inspire leaders to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.

Architect Gilbert Yu shares three lessons for the next generation of designers Book launch celebrates a life built from zero to skyscrapers

Celebrated architect and developer Gilbert Yu is inspiring the next generation of architects with hard-earned wisdom drawn from over three decades in the industry. Known for his pioneering iconic projects, Yu distills his experience into essential lessons for future practitioners.

Yu sums up the lessons in his biography The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu, written by award-winning journalist Iris Gonzales.

The book tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams. It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

Some lessons he wants to impart to architects:

Lesson 1: Architecture goes beyond design

“Architecture is not just about designing structures—it’s about building lives,” Yu said. “Every structure must have purpose, be designed with excellence, and built for permanence.”

Lesson 2: Architects must be knowledgeable in business

Yu believes architects should understand property value, project feasibility, and market trends to ensure success. “Architects must also be development consultants, not just technical people,” he noted, urging schools to integrate business and entrepreneurship into architectural education.

Lesson 3: Architects must be forward-thinking

Designs should anticipate shifts in landscapes, lifestyles, and technology, enabling structures to stand the test of time.

Yu’s philosophy can be summed up in his personal mantra: “Zero plus zero plus zero equals 100.”Starting with no knowledge, no experience and no resources, he built a thriving career and landmark projects through determination and resilience.

“A project starts from zero before becoming an iconic landmark,” Yu said. “With vision and dedication, architects can transform the impossible into reality.”

About the Book

The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams.

It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Architect Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

About Architect Gilbert Yu

Architect Gilbert Yu is a respected Filipino architect and developer best known for creating quality residential projects in prime locations.

Starting from humble beginnings as one of nine children of a sari-sari store owner, Yu worked his way through school and became a licensed architect in 1970. He co-founded G&W Architects, which delivered several landmark developments in Bonifacio Global City, including Sapphire Residences, Kensington Place, Grand Hamptons, and Blue Sapphire.

Throughout his career, Architect Yu has been an advocate for housing affordability, high construction standards, and consumer protection in the real estate industry.

About the Author: Ms. Iris Gonzales

Iris Gonzales is a journalist and columnist for The Philippine Star. Her thrice-weekly op-ed column, Eyes Wide Open, explores the intersection of business and politics in the Philippines. She graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication in Diliman and earned her master’s degree in journalism as a Konrad Adenauer Fellow at Ateneo de Manila University.