Kwento Ni Toto

2026/07/03

White Party Manila Returns With a Bigger Purpose: A Pride Celebration of Love

White Party Manila Returns With a Bigger Purpose: A Pride Celebration of Love, Respect, and Giving Back

Marco Polo Demo 7/03/2026 10:02:00 PM

After more than a decade, some celebrations don't just make a comeback—they remind people why they mattered in the first place.

That was exactly the feeling I had while witnessing the return of White Party Manila at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. It was also my first time joining and covering the event, making the experience even more memorable. After a 12-year hiatus, one of the country's most recognizable Pride celebrations returned in grand fashion, proving that it has always been more than just an all-white party. Seeing thousands of people gather under one roof, united by a shared message of love, respect, acceptance, and community, made it easy to understand why so many had eagerly awaited its return.

From the moment guests walked into the venue dressed in elegant and imaginative pearl-white outfits, it felt like everyone had become part of one giant celebration. The halls looked less like a convention center and more like a runway, where every ensemble reflected confidence, individuality, and the freedom to express one's true self.

But beyond the glamorous fashion, dazzling performances, and celebrity-filled night, White Party Manila 2026 carried a much deeper purpose.

More Than a Comeback

Returning after 12 years is never easy, especially for an event that has built a strong reputation within the LGBTQIA+ community. Yet White Party Manila managed to do exactly that—and even exceeded expectations.

Thousands of members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, celebrities, performers, content creators, and supporters gathered under one roof, transforming the World Trade Center into a vibrant space where everyone was welcomed without judgment.

It wasn't simply about reviving an iconic event. It was about bringing back a safe space where people could celebrate who they are while encouraging others to do the same.

Throughout the evening, one message quietly echoed through every performance, every smile, and every conversation: respect begins by accepting people for who they truly are.

A Night Filled With Music and Pride

The entertainment lineup ensured that the energy never slowed down from the moment the program began until the final performances.

Marina Summers was the first to take the stage, delivering an electrifying opening performance that instantly raised the excitement inside the venue and set the mood for the night's celebration.

Keeping the program lively from start to finish was KaladKaren, who served as the event's host. Her humor, charm, and heartfelt moments kept the audience engaged while seamlessly guiding them through every segment of the evening.

Music soon took center stage as Gloc-9 fired up the crowd with a powerful set featuring crowd favorites Hari ng Tondo, Simpleng Tao, Upuan, and the timeless Pride anthem Sirena, with thousands of voices singing every word alongside him.

One of the night's meaningful moments came when John Lapus took the stage to present the award recognizing allies—individuals and organizations whose support has helped strengthen the fight for equality and inclusion.

The atmosphere shifted to a more heartfelt mood when Ben&Ben performed, bringing warmth and emotion as concertgoers happily joined every chorus and waved their lights in the air.

The celebration also highlighted fashion and creativity when singer Maki opened designer Bang Pineda's fashion presentation with his hit song Dilaw. The performance energized the audience once again and perfectly complemented the runway showcase.

Adding another wave of nostalgia, the SexBomb Girls, led by Rochelle Pangilinan, returned to the stage after receiving the Gay Icon of the Year honor. Their appearance drew loud cheers from the crowd, reminding everyone why they remain one of the country's most beloved dance groups.

Fashion With a Statement

The all-white dress code became one of the event's strongest visual highlights.

The fashion presentation featured celebrities including Janella Salvador, Mimiyuuuh, Chie Filomeno, Alex Diaz, Kirk Bondad, Ron Angeles, and Teejay Marquez, each showcasing unique interpretations of the evening's elegant white theme.

Every look celebrated creativity while reinforcing one simple message, there is beauty in authenticity.

Vice Ganda Leads the Revival

Perhaps the most anticipated arrival of the night belonged to Vice Ganda.

Stepping into the venue in a striking all-white ensemble, Vice immediately became one of the evening's biggest highlights.

More importantly, Vice's presence symbolized the return of White Party Manila itself.

As the face of this year's revival, Vice celebrated not only Pride but also the importance of recognizing the people who continue to stand beside the LGBTQIA+ community.

The evening also welcomed several notable personalities including Ice Seguerra and spouse Liza Diño, Joey Mead-King, Angie King, director Andoy Ranay, Martin del Rosario, and veteran actress Yayo Aguila. Too bad wasn't able to see some of them in the crowd.

A Party With a Cause

While music and entertainment filled the venue, the most meaningful part of the evening happened when the spotlight shifted from the stage to the community.

White Party Manila honored several government leaders as Outstanding Allies of the Year, recognizing their continued support for inclusivity and equality programs.

Those recognized included Joy Belmonte represented by its City Councilors, Isko Moreno, Francis Zamora, and Imelda Calixto-Rubiano.

The biggest moment, however, centered on advocacy.

White Party Manila, together with Mentorque Productions, officially turned over a ₱1 million donation to LoveYourself PH, a nonprofit organization dedicated to HIV awareness, testing, treatment, and support services.

The amount came from ₱700,000 raised during the event, while Mentorque Inc., led by CEO Brian Dy, contributed an additional ₱300,000 to complete the donation.

Brian Dy shared:

"Having Vice as the face of this year's comeback feels more meaningful, especially as we reignite the spirit of Pride through celebration, community, and purpose while delivering a Pride night to remember."

That statement perfectly captured what White Party Manila achieved this year.

Respect and Love Are at the Heart of Pride

What stayed with me long after the lights dimmed wasn't simply the performances or the celebrity sightings.

It was seeing thousands of people celebrating without fear of judgment. Friends, families, allies, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community shared one space where differences were not barriers but reasons to celebrate one another.

Pride has never been about asking everyone to be the same. It is about respecting each person's identity, recognizing their dignity, and allowing love to exist without prejudice.

White Party Manila's return reminded everyone that acceptance is not just spoken, it is practiced through kindness, inclusion, and meaningful action.

And perhaps that is why this year's celebration felt so memorable.

It wasn't merely the return of an iconic event after 12 years.

It was the return of a movement that continues to prove that when respect leads and love follows, everyone has a place to belong.

2026/07/02

Updates

The Superbod Era Is No Longer Just for the Stage, It's a Lifestyle Anyone Can Live

Marco Polo Demo 7/02/2026 12:09:00 AM

From the Runway to the Running Path: Century Tuna's Superbod Era Is Now for Every Filipino

There was a time when hearing the word "Superbod" instantly brought to mind celebrities, fitness competitions, and men and women confidently walking on stage with physiques many of us could only admire. For years, it was a title associated with discipline, determination, and the courage to transform oneself.

But after joining the recent Century Tuna Superbod Life Community Run (of which I wasn't able to run), I realized that the meaning of being a Superbod has grown into something much bigger.

This time, it wasn't about who had the best body or who crossed the finish line first. It was about seeing ordinary Filipinos, from first-time runners to seasoned fitness enthusiasts, sharing the same road, encouraging one another, and proving that living a healthier lifestyle begins with simply showing up.

That, perhaps, is the real "Superbod Era."

More Than a Run, It Was a Community in Motion

The community run served as the official kickoff of Century Tuna's newest initiative, the Superbod Life Community, held in partnership with Megaworld. The event gathered fitness enthusiasts, families, beginners, and longtime runners in one place, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a celebration than a competition.

Adding energy to that afternoon were Atasha Muhlach and Emilio Daez, who didn't just greet participants from the sidelines (even though bouncers are on guard), they joined the run themselves. Their presence reminded everyone that staying active isn't about being famous; it's about making time for your health and inspiring others to do the same.

Also present were several former Century Tuna Superbods winners and participants like Inka Magnaye whom we manage to have a photo with. Seeing them mingle with everyday runners highlighted how the campaign has evolved over the past two decades. While the competition continues to recognize outstanding fitness ambassadors, today's message is much simpler: anyone can begin their own fitness journey.

Twenty Years Later, the Meaning of "Superbod" Has Changed

As Century Tuna celebrates the 20th anniversary of its iconic Superbods campaign, the brand is expanding its mission beyond the stage.

Instead of focusing solely on physical transformation, Century Tuna now encourages Filipinos to confidently embrace their own "Superbod Era", which is a healthier, more active lifestyle that welcomes everyone, regardless of age, experience, or fitness level.

That vision has already inspired thousands.

The launch of the first Superbod Era Strava Challenge attracted more than 58,000 Filipinos, showing that many people are eager to become part of a community that motivates rather than intimidates. It also proved that fitness doesn't have to be a lonely journey. Sometimes, all people need is a supportive group that cheers every small victory.

A Fitness Community That Keeps Things Simple

One thing I appreciated about the Superbod Life Community is that it doesn't expect people to become fitness experts overnight.

Whether you're taking your very first walk around the neighborhood or getting back into exercise after a long break, the community welcomes everyone without pressure.
Z
Its approach revolves around three simple ideas:

Move Super encourages members to stay active through practical workouts, expert Q&A sessions, fitness tips, and community meetups.

Fuel Super focuses on realistic nutrition, offering easy meal ideas, healthier snack alternatives, and preparation tips that fit even the busiest schedules.

Finally, Live Super reminds members that lasting wellness comes from consistent everyday habits rather than chasing perfection.

It's a refreshing reminder that becoming healthier doesn't always require dramatic changes. Sometimes, it starts with one walk, one healthier meal, or one decision to keep going.

Everyone Deserves a Place to Start

Century Tuna believes many Filipinos hesitate to begin their fitness journey simply because they think it is too difficult or only meant for a select few.

Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President, General Manager, and Group Business Head of Century Pacific Food Inc., shared the inspiration behind creating the community.

"We realized that many people, especially beginners, hesitate to start their fitness journeys because they often feel like getting into fitness is complicated—like it is something only a few can access and pull off," Endaya said.

He explained that the community was designed to change that perception.

"The Superbod Life community was built to change that perspective. It is a safe space where members can learn and be inspired by peers going on the same journey and from experts who can guide them toward their health goals. At Century Tuna, we truly believe that everyone has the potential to reach their 'Superbod Era'—they just need the right place to start."

For Atasha Muhlach, what makes the movement meaningful is that inspiration comes not only from celebrities but also from ordinary people who continue to show up despite the challenges.

"This community is exactly what Filipinos need in their fitness journey, and I am blessed to be part of something this big," she said.

She added:

"What makes Superbod Life so special is that inspiration doesn't just come from brand ambassadors like us, but from the real-world stories, shared struggles, and genuine experiences of the everyday people you'll meet in the community."

Fueling Every Step of the Journey

A healthy lifestyle doesn't stop after a workout.

Century Tuna also emphasized the importance of proper nutrition by introducing the Century Tuna Super Bowl, a ready-to-eat tuna-and-rice meal packed with protein, Vitamin B3, and Omega-3 DHA for people with busy schedules.

For Emilio Daez, it's a practical option for active individuals.

"I finally have a nutritious meal I can take anywhere to my runs or gym sessions," Daez shared.

He added,

"With the Century Tuna Super Bowl, it's a ready-to-eat meal option that perfectly fits an on-the-go professional schedule. Bonus treat for many Filipinos is that you get all of this for only P29 per can."

The Superbod Journey Continues

Century Tuna also announced the official on-ground casting call for Superbods 2026, giving aspiring fitness ambassadors another opportunity to represent the brand.

But after spending the morning with runners from different walks of life, one thing became clear: the real success of the Superbod movement is no longer measured by perfectly sculpted bodies or championship titles.

It's measured by every person who decides to wake up a little earlier for a jog, choose healthier meals, or simply take better care of themselves.

The Superbod stage may still be there, but the movement has found a much bigger audience beyond it.

And perhaps that's what makes this new chapter special.

In today's Superbod Era, you don't have to be a celebrity, an athlete, or a competition winner to live like a Superbod.

You simply have to take that first step.

2026/06/30

Updates

Inside the World of Ajinomoto PH: What We Learned from a Factory Tour in Bulacan

Marco Polo Demo 6/30/2026 04:03:00 PM

There are factory tours that simply show how products are made. Then there are factory tours that change the way you look at a brand you've known your entire life.

Representing Kwento Ni Toto, our correspondent Maki recently joined the World of Ajinomoto Philippines Factory Tour at the Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) manufacturing facility in Bulacan. What seemed like an ordinary visit to a food manufacturing plant quickly turned into an eye-opening experience about science, food innovation, sustainability, and the people working behind one of the country's most familiar kitchen staples.

For many Filipinos, Ajinomoto has always been part of home cooking. But seeing firsthand how the company operates gave us a deeper appreciation of what happens long before a product reaches our kitchen shelves.

More Than Just a Factory Visit

From the moment guests arrive, it becomes clear that this isn't your typical factory walkthrough.

The experience begins at the World of Hygiene, where visitors are introduced to one of the company's most important values—cleanliness and food safety. Before entering the production areas, everyone is required to wash and sanitize their hands, reinforcing the company's strict hygiene standards.

It may seem like a simple first step, but it immediately sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

Every process inside the facility is designed with quality, safety, and consistency in mind.

Discovering the Science Behind Umami

One of the highlights of the tour is learning about umami, recognized as the fifth basic taste alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.

Visitors are introduced to the fascinating story behind its discovery and the science of monosodium glutamate (MSG)—an ingredient that has long been surrounded by misconceptions.

Rather than simply presenting information, the tour includes a sensory experience that allows visitors to understand how umami enhances the natural savory flavor of food.

It's an educational stop that explains why Ajinomoto has remained a trusted flavor enhancer among Filipino cooks and food lovers for more than 65 years.

Inside the World of Innovation

Walking through the World of Innovation, visitors witness where Ajinomoto's dried products begin their journey.

The production lines showcase modern manufacturing technologies, automated systems, and stringent quality controls that ensure every pack meets the company's standards before leaving the facility.

Although certain production areas remain restricted for safety and quality reasons, visitors are given an excellent view of how ingredients are processed, packed, and prepared for distribution.

It is a reminder that behind every small sachet on grocery shelves is a carefully managed operation.

Precision at the World of Chambers

The tour continues to the World of Chambers, the company's warehouse and logistics area.

Here, products are tracked, sorted, and organized using a highly coordinated system where efficiency and safety go hand in hand.

Watching the movement of products throughout the warehouse highlights how much planning goes into ensuring that Ajinomoto products reach stores across the Philippines on time.

The emphasis on workplace safety is evident throughout the facility, with systems designed to protect both employees and products.

Sustainability in Action

Perhaps one of the most impressive parts of the visit is seeing how Ajinomoto is integrating sustainability into its daily operations.

The Bulacan factory has transitioned to using 100% renewable energy, helping reduce its environmental footprint.

Outside the facility, visitors also get to see one of the company's newest investments—a pioneering 40-foot Electric Vehicle (EV) tractor head and trailer wing van used to transport products from the factory to logistics hubs.

An EV charging station powers the truck and can fully recharge the vehicle in approximately one and a half hours.

These initiatives support the Ajinomoto Group's 2030 Roadmap, which aims to help extend the healthy life expectancy of 1 billion people while reducing environmental impact by 50 percent.

"Eat Well, Live Well"

During the media tour, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation President Daizaburo Koga shared why the company decided to formally open its Bulacan facility to the public.

Opening the factory, he explained, came after years of receiving requests from students, educators, organizations, and community groups looking for meaningful educational experiences.

"We realized that our factory has a story worth sharing. This led us to design a more structured and engaging factory tour experience."

More than showcasing manufacturing, the tour reflects Ajinomoto's commitment to nutrition, wellness, and sustainability.

Mr. Koga further emphasized the company's guiding philosophy.

"We designed the factory tour so people can see what we mean by our 'Eat Well, Live Well' philosophy. It is really about encouraging everyone to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals that positively impacts well-being. All our actions are directed towards contributing to a healthier, more sustainable society."

That philosophy extends beyond its products through programs like I Love Veggielicious®, which encourages families to eat more vegetables, and BawAsin®, a campaign promoting reduced salt consumption without sacrificing flavor.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

One thing that stood out during the visit was how educational the experience is.

Instead of relying solely on presentations, the factory tour combines science, history, technology, and sustainability into an engaging experience suitable for students, professionals, organizations, and even families interested in learning more about food production.

It answers many questions people often have about MSG, food manufacturing, and modern factory operations while showing how innovation can work alongside environmental responsibility.

Planning Your Visit

The World of Ajinomoto Philippines Factory Tour is open to the public every Tuesday and Thursday.

Tour schedules are available:

Morning: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Afternoon: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

A minimum of 15 participants is required for each session, although larger groups may arrange special schedules with advance coordination.

Interested visitors may reserve a slot by emailing worldofajinomotoph.vc6@asv.ajinomoto.com, calling 0917-128-3858, or booking through the official World of Ajinomoto Philippines online reservation page.

Our visit to the World of Ajinomoto Philippines Factory Tour proved that there's much more to the brand than the seasoning found in many Filipino kitchens.

Representing Kwento Ni Toto, Maki witnessed how decades of food science, innovation, quality control, and sustainability come together inside the Bulacan facility. From understanding the science of umami to seeing renewable energy and electric-powered logistics in action, the experience offered a fresh perspective on a company that continues to evolve with the changing needs of consumers and the environment.

For anyone curious about how food products are made—or simply looking for an educational day trip—the World of Ajinomoto Philippines Factory Tour is worth adding to the list. It's not just about seeing a factory. It's about understanding the journey of the food we enjoy and the people committed to making it better, safer, and more sustainable for everyone.

2026/06/24

Wellness

More Than a Spa Day: How Wellness Became a Way of Life for BlueWater Day Spa’s Celebrity Endorsers

Marco Polo Demo 6/24/2026 11:24:00 PM

There are days when life feels like one long race.

Deadlines pile up. Meetings overlap. Notifications never seem to stop. For celebrities, content creators, and public personalities, the pace can be even more demanding. Long shooting hours, business commitments, travel schedules, and public appearances often leave little room for rest.

That is why wellness has become more than just a luxury. For many, it has become a necessity.

This was one of the strongest messages that emerged during BlueWater Day Spa’s recent “Summer Unwind” event held at its Eton Greenhills branch. While the afternoon was filled with laughter, games, and relaxation, it also became a meaningful conversation about how wellness plays an important role in the lives of some of the brand’s celebrity endorsers.

Present during the gathering were David Licauco, Janeena Chan, Fabio Ide, Ellen Frojd, and Teejay Marquez—personalities who may come from different backgrounds and careers but share one common belief: taking care of yourself is just as important as chasing success.

A Place to Pause

For more than two decades, BlueWater Day Spa has built its reputation as a sanctuary for people seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

Known for its relaxing atmosphere, excellent service, and wide range of wellness treatments, the spa has become a go-to destination for many Filipinos looking for a much-needed pause from the demands of daily life.

During the event, BlueWater Day Spa President and CEO Mary Simisim shared that wellness should not be viewed as an occasional reward but as an essential part of everyday living.

It is a reminder that many of us often forget.

We spend so much time taking care of responsibilities, careers, and other people that we sometimes neglect ourselves.

The celebrity endorsers who shared their stories during the event proved that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Each person has a different approach, a different challenge, and a different reason for making self-care a priority.

David Licauco: Staying Grounded Amid Success

Actor and entrepreneur David Licauco has experienced tremendous growth in recent years.

From television projects to business ventures, his schedule has become increasingly busy. Yet despite the attention and success that continue to come his way, David remains grounded.

As a longtime BlueWater Day Spa endorser, he reflected on a partnership that has grown alongside his career.

For David, wellness is not simply about looking good. It is about maintaining balance.

Success can be exciting, but it can also be exhausting. Taking care of one's physical and mental well-being helps ensure that achievements do not come at the expense of health and happiness.

During the event, David emphasized that taking care of oneself is just as important as reaching professional milestones.

It is a perspective many people can relate to. After all, what is the value of success if you no longer have the energy to enjoy it?

Janeena Chan: Finding a Brand That Reflects Her Values

One of the highlights of the event was the official introduction of singer, host, and content creator Janeena Chan as the newest member of the BlueWater Day Spa family.

Janeena expressed her excitement about joining a brand whose values align closely with her own advocacy for wellness and positive living.

In today's digital world, content creators are constantly connected. The pressure to remain active, creative, and visible can sometimes become overwhelming.

For Janeena, wellness serves as an anchor.

It is a conscious decision to make time for herself amid a busy schedule and to maintain a positive outlook despite life's challenges.

Her partnership with BlueWater Day Spa reflects a growing movement among younger professionals who understand that productivity and self-care should go hand in hand.

Fabio Ide and Ellen Frojd: Turning Wellness Into Family Time

Among the most heartwarming stories shared during the event came from celebrity couple Fabio Ide and Ellen Frojd.

For them, wellness is not only a personal practice—it is something they intentionally pass on to their children.

Listening to the couple talk about wellness felt less like a celebrity interview and more like a conversation about family values.

They revealed how wellness experiences often become opportunities for meaningful family bonding. Whether it is spending quality time together, encouraging healthy habits, or simply teaching their children the importance of balance, wellness has become part of their family culture.

What stood out most was the idea that self-care does not always have to be a solitary activity.

For many parents, wellness often takes a back seat while caring for their children. Fabio and Ellen's approach offers a refreshing perspective: wellness can be shared.

It can be a family activity.

It can be a way to create memories.

And perhaps most importantly, it can teach children at an early age that taking care of themselves is something worth prioritizing.

In a world where screens often dominate family time, their wellness journey serves as a reminder that genuine connection remains one of the healthiest investments a family can make.

Teejay Marquez: Recharging for the Next Adventure

For actor and content creator Teejay Marquez, life often involves airports, flights, and projects in different countries.

While many people dream of a lifestyle filled with travel, frequent movement can take a toll on both the body and mind.

Teejay shared that maintaining physical and mental wellness has become essential in helping him keep up with his fast-paced lifestyle.

Travel may bring opportunities, but it can also bring fatigue, stress, and burnout.

That is why finding time to recharge has become a priority.

Whether preparing for a project or recovering after one, Teejay understands that rest is not a sign of weakness—it is part of staying productive.

His wellness journey highlights an important lesson for anyone constantly on the go: slowing down occasionally allows you to move forward more effectively.

Wellness Beyond the Treatment Room

The afternoon was not all serious conversations.

Members of the media and celebrity endorsers also participated in interactive games that brought plenty of laughter and friendly competition.

The activities offered a glimpse of the personalities behind the public image. It was a reminder that wellness is not only about massages or treatments. Sometimes, it is also about joy, connection, and moments that make us smile.

Guests also learned more about some of BlueWater Day Spa's most popular offerings, including the signature Chiang Mai Massage, the restorative Thai Yoga Massage, and the advanced 5D Laser Treatment.

But beyond the services, the bigger takeaway from the event was simple.

Wellness is personal.

For David, it is staying grounded despite success.

For Janeena, it is living a positive and balanced life.

For Fabio and Ellen, it is creating healthy habits as a family.

For Teejay, it is finding time to recharge amid a demanding schedule.

Different stories. Different journeys. One common goal.

To live healthier, happier, and more balanced lives.

The Real Luxury

As the event came to a close with a special mug-signing activity featuring the celebrity endorsers, one message lingered in the minds of those present.

The real luxury today is not necessarily having more.

It is having time to breathe.

Time to rest.

Time to reconnect with yourself and the people who matter most.

In a world that constantly tells us to keep moving, BlueWater Day Spa's "Summer Unwind" gathering served as a gentle reminder that sometimes the best thing we can do is pause.

Because wellness is not just about escaping stress.

It is about building a life where health, balance, and happiness become part of the everyday journey.