Philippines - ASEAN RECORDS

ASEAN Records Officially Launched at the 2nd ASEAN Festival 2024

November 14, 2024November 18, 2024 admin Art & Entertainment, Building & Structure, Business Trade, Human Achievement, Nature, News, Science & Technology, Sport & Game ASEAN, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Timor-Leste, Vietnam

The ASEAN Records was officially launched today during the grand 2nd ASEAN Festival 2024, a four-day cultural festival held at GEM Box, Nilai. This monumental launch marks a new era in celebrating and documenting the extraordinary achievements within the ASEAN region, further strengthening regional unity and showcasing excellence.

Founded by Eldrick Koh and Gillian Ooi, ASEAN Records aims to honor exceptional achievements within the ASEAN community, encompassing individual, organizational, and collective contributions. With a commitment to fairness, credibility, and transparency, ASEAN Records sets a new standard for recognizing milestones that shape and inspire the region.

About ASEAN Records

ASEAN Records was officially approved by the ASEAN Secretariat on 1st December 2023, reinforcing its legitimacy as a trusted platform for honoring achievements across the region. The initiative focuses on measurable milestones that highlight contributions in areas such as cultural heritage, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

These records serve as benchmarks of credibility, ensuring each achievement is rigorously verified and meets the highest standards of authenticity. By celebrating these milestones, ASEAN Records highlights the strengths and potential of the ASEAN community, promoting pride and unity among its members.

The launch ceremony was officiated by Dr. Christina Yeo, representing YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia. Distinguished guests from ASEAN embassies and key organizations were present, including:

Y.M. Tengku Dato’ Dr Hishammudin Zaizi Bin Y.A.M. Tengku Bendahara Azman Shah Alhaj
Mr. Eldrick Koh – Founder, ASEAN Records & Organizing Chairman of ASEAN Festival
Ms. Gillian Ooi – Founder, ASEAN Records
H.E. Thepthavone Sengmany – Ambassador of Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Malaysia
H.E. Aung Soe Win – Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar
H.E. Lisualdo Gaspar – Ambassador of Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
Ms. Tran Thi Chang – President, Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association
Mr. Roussel Reyes – Consul General, Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

**H.E. Thepthavone Sengmany** Ambassador of Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Malaysia

**H.E. Aung Soe Win** Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

**Ms. Tran Thi Chang** President, Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association

**Mr. Roussel Reyes** Consul General, Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

**H.E. Lisualdo Gaspar** Ambassador of Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

The Vision of ASEAN Records

Our vision is to create a platform that not only celebrates achievements but also inspires a culture of excellence within the ASEAN region. These records symbolize the resilience, creativity, and innovation of the people and organizations in our community.

ASEAN Records is more than just a recognition platform. It is a movement to spotlight the potential and extraordinary accomplishments of our region, bringing attention to stories that inspire and unite us.

Asia Big Power Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for creating Malaysia’s Largest Rooftop Beverage Can Replica: BIG BEE Honey Drinks Can Replica, measuring 10.65 meters in height and 6.03 meters in diameter

*City Coin Laundry Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for the Largest Self-Service Laundromat Chain in ASEAN, with 760 outlets*

*Eco Foodsoft (M) Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for ASEAN’s Largest Earthworm Farm by Monthly Vermicast Production, producing over 10 tons monthly*

*Rest N Go App Sdn Bhd (formerly Gintell Rest N Go) has achieved an ASEAN Record for the Largest Deployment of Vending Massage Chairs in ASEAN, with 6,691 units across seven ASEAN countries*

A Platform for Achievements

ASEAN Records honors achievements that represent the diverse strengths of ASEAN, from cultural heritage preservation to groundbreaking innovation and entrepreneurship. Each recognition undergoes a rigorous verification process, ensuring the integrity of every milestone documented.

By recognizing these contributions, ASEAN Records fosters pride in the region and creates opportunities for collaboration and growth across member countries.

*Performance from the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste*

*Performance from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam*

First & Largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia

December 6, 2023December 6, 2023 admin Business Trade, News Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam

The ASEAN Festival 2023, hosted at the prestigious LaLaport BBCC in Kuala Lumpur from 30^th November to 3^rd December 2023, has concluded with tremendous success. Organized by GenYouth, the event was a harmonious convergence of ASEAN’s rich and diverse heritage, immersing visitors in vibrant cultures, delectable cuisines, captivating music, awe-inspiring performances, and more – all under one dynamic roof. It was truly a celebration of the unity and diversity inherent in the ASEAN region.

This significant event, generously supported by Tourism Malaysia through the provision of Cuti-Cuti Malaysia and Malaysia Truly Asia, saw active participation from Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia MADANI by JPM, featuring booths during the festival. A highlight was the remarkable ASEAN Mini Museum, showcasing the cultural wealth of ASEAN embassies.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL:

ASEAN Market: With about 100 booths, offering diverse products and crafts from member countries. Vendors from ASEAN nations flew in, contributing to this cultural extravaganza with unique goods, street food, and F&B delights.

ASEAN Travel Fair: Golden Destinations and Suka Travel presented the Muslim and Non-Muslim ASEAN Travel Fair, featuring representatives from various travel agencies. Visitors explored the rich tapestry of experiences available in the region.

ASEAN Music Festival: The festival hosted cultural shows by Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia embassies, featuring traditional dances, Muay Thai, Indonesian Traditional Dance, Fashion Show, Vietnamese Cultural Show, and live bands throughout the four days.

The festival kicked off with a Grand Opening Ceremony featuring the esteemed presence of H.E. Walid Abu Ali, Embassy of the State of Palestine, and H.E. Betty Oyella Bigombe, High Commission of The Republic of Uganda, H.E Ouk Chandara, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia, H.E. Viengsavanh Sipraseuth Ambassador, The Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Aung Soe Win Ambassador-Designate, Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and distinguished embassy representatives from various countries. Mr. Mohd Yusri Bin Mhod Yusoff, Deputy Secretary-General (Culture) Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture Malaysia and Mohd Shahrir Mohd Ali, Director International Promotion (ASEAN), witnessed the 1st ASEAN Festival in Malaysia. The launch marked a historic moment as ASEAN embassies and dignitaries jointly inaugurated the ASEAN Festival, setting a record for the first and largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia.

The second day witnessed the launch of ASEAN Cashless Day, with MDEC as the Guest of Honor. More than 20 business associations and their presidents joined the momentous occasion, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to innovation.

The 3rd day of ASEAN Festival dedicated to recognizing achievements, as the Youth Achievement Records Presentation Ceremony taken the center stage. The day also featured various kids show including “Ao Dai Show” by 20 Vietnam Kids”, Indonesian Raipai Aceh From Aceh” by Indoneisan School of Kuala Lumpur, Malayisa Kids Fashion Show, Muay Thai Show. The Youth Achievement Records Ceremony recognized outstanding individuals in various fields. 13 records were acknowledged, with 12 individuals receiving certificates by Director of International Youth Center representing the Guest of Honor, YB Hannah, Minister of Youth and Sports. For more information on Youth Achievement Records.

The festival concludes on the 3rd of December with a mix of cultural performances including Lion Dance, fashion shows, and Muay Thai demonstrations.

Besides, attendees were treated to an array of exciting Lucky Draw Prizes worth RM20,000, which included domestic and overseas travel packages to Bangkok, Langkawi, Penang, promising unforgettable getaways. Other coveted prizes encompassed Vivo phones, Honor watches, cutting-edge RAZER gadgets, VANZO Perfume sets, Vanilla Mille Crepe, FIPPER and MILLIOT & CO. cash vouchers, mouth-watering US Pizza slices and vouchers, EUREKA popcorn, irresistible The Famous Amos Cookies and vouchers, among many more enticing offerings.

Looking ahead, the organizers are already planning for ASEAN Festival 2024, aiming to build on the success of this year and create an even more unforgettable experience for attendees. The ASEAN Festival 2023 has truly been a celebration of unity, diversity, and the spirit of ASEAN. For more information and updates, follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/ASEANfestival, https://www.instagram.com/ASEANfestival/

Philippines’ Paradise Trio Shine in Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 10 Readers’ Choice Awards

October 7, 2023October 7, 2023 admin Nature, News Condé Nast Traveler's Top 10 Readers' Choice Awards, Philippines

The Philippines proudly announces its triumphant presence in this year’s Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) Top 10 Readers’ Choice Awards, with three of its iconic island destinations claiming top spots. Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao have clinched third, sixth, and tenth place, respectively, in the prestigious luxury and lifestyle travel magazine’s rankings, the Department of Tourism (DOT) revealed today.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared the exciting news, emphasizing the enduring allure of these world-renowned islands among global travelers. “We welcome the resounding message to tourists from around the world saying: they Love the Philippines! From the charm of our islands, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, lush landscapes, rich heritage and culture, and the excellent hospitality of the Filipino people, the exceptional hospitality and excellence of these islands have always resonated,” she exclaimed.

The rankings were determined through an online survey, which saw the participation of a staggering 600,000 readers. Boracay, with 90.74 points, secured the third spot in Asia, closely followed by Palawan with 89.71 points, and Siargao, earning 87.37 points in readers’ votes.

Reflecting on this achievement, Secretary Frasco stated, “This acknowledgment motivates us to persist in our efforts to elevate the Philippines as a premier travel destination in Asia and the world. Our commitment to sustainable practices has not only captivated the hearts of travelers but has also contributed significantly to the growth of our nation’s tourism industry.”

Boracay and Palawan, familiar faces in this prestigious list, had made appearances in the previous years. Last year, Boracay secured the top position among Asian islands, with Palawan claiming the eighth spot.

This recognition underlines the Philippines’ dedication to offering unparalleled travel experiences, combining natural wonders with warm Filipino hospitality. As the world reopens post-pandemic, the Department of Tourism remains steadfast in its mission to showcase the diverse beauty of the Philippines to travelers worldwide.

About the Department of Tourism (DOT)

The Department of Tourism of the Philippines is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for the regulation of the Philippine tourism industry and the promotion of the Philippines as a tourist destination. Through its various programs and initiatives, the DOT is committed to fostering sustainable and inclusive tourism practices, showcasing the country’s natural and cultural wonders to the world.

About Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the travel industry. Each year, readers of the renowned luxury and lifestyle travel magazine vote for their favorite destinations, hotels, resorts, and attractions, recognizing exceptional travel experiences and destinations worldwide.

Myanmar will not be allowed ASEAN leadership in 2026

September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 admin News ASEAN, Indonesia, Philippines

Southeast Asian leaders have decided that Myanmar will not take over the rotating leadership of their regional bloc as scheduled in 2026, according to Asian diplomats and the leader of the Philippines.

The decision, revealed on Tuesday at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders’ summit taking place in Indonesia, is the latest blow to efforts by Myanmar’s ruling generals to gain international recognition after violently seizing power in 2021.

Western governments have condemned the Myanmar military’s removal of Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected government and have demanded her release from detention, along with other officials.

The Philippines agreed to take over the regional bloc’s chairmanship in 2026 at the ASEAN summit, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a statement, citing what he told fellow leaders in the closed-door meetings.

“It is my pleasure to announce that the Philippines is ready to take the helm and chair ASEAN in 2026,” Marcos told his ASEAN counterparts in Jakarta, the statement from the presidential palace said.

“We will fortify the foundations of our community-building and navigate ASEAN as it embarks on a new chapter.”

Marcos did not say why the Philippines was taking over the chair from Myanmar.

ASEAN’s leadership rotates annually based on the alphabetical order of the English names of the member states.

A member state at the helm chairs the ASEAN summit and related summits and the group’s various bodies in line with the ASEAN charter.

Source: Aljazeera

Singapore now has the most powerful passport in the world

July 20, 2023July 21, 2023 admin News Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam

Singapore has the world’s most powerful passport in 2023. The recently released third quarter Henley Passport Index revealed a major shake-up, with Germany, Italy and Spain coming in second and Japan sharing the third rank with six other countries.

After evaluating all countries of the world, Henley creates a ranking of all the passports on the basis of the number of destinations their holders can visit visa-free with inputs from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), updating the report every quarter.

According to the release, Singapore passport holders get visa-free access to 192 countries out of 227 in the world. The nation has climbed over five ranks in the last ten years.

Just missing the top 10 mark, Malaysia made it to the 11th spot allowing passport holders to travel visa-free to 180 countries. Hong Kong shared the 17th spot with Andorra with visa-free access to 170 countries. Thailand ranked at 64th place with visa-free travel option for 79 countries. India took the 80th spot on the list with visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel option for 57 countries.

The weakest passport in the world is Afghanistan, with visa-free access to only 27 destinations.

The most powerful passports in the world, according to Henley Passport Index 2023.

Rank	Visa-free access to	Countries
1	192	Singapore
2	190	Germany, Italy, Spain
3	189	Austria, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, South Korea, Sweden
4	188	Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, UK
5	187	Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Switzerland
6	186	Australia, Hungary, Poland
7	185	Canada, Greece
8	184	Lithuania, US
9	183	Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia
10	182	Estonia, Iceland
11	180	Liechtenstein, Malaysia
20	166	Brunei
64	79	Thailand, Belarus, Lesotho
69	73	Indonesia, Tanzania
74	66	Philippines, Armenia, Cape Verde Islands
82	55	Cambodia, Vietnam, Guinea-Bissau, Mali
87	50	Laos, Turkmenistan
89	47	Myanmar, Ethiopia

Source: Henley Passport Index

Liza Diño, first Filipino recipient of the highest civilian honor from France

June 26, 2023December 14, 2023 admin Human Achievement, News France, Liza Diño, Philippines

LIZA Diño, a staunch supporter of Philippine cinema who continues to espouse the cause of Filipino filmmakers even after her tenure at the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), was awarded by the French Ministry of Culture with the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (National Order of Arts and Letters). She was given the rank of Chevalier (Knight), a first for a Filipina in the field of cinema.

The former FDCP chairman and Sunday Times Magazine (STM) columnist was cited for her achievements in drawing the world’s attention to quality Filipino filmmakers and movies during her service at the council. In return, she promoted French and world cinema to the Philippine audience.

During the awarding ceremony at the ambassador’s official residence in Makati, French Ambassador to the Philippines Michèle Boccoz cited the many projects Diño led that benefitted both countries.

“On your first official trip to France to attend the Cannes Film Festival to accompany your Philippine delegation, you met with CNC (Centre National du Cinéma et de l’image animée or National Centre for Cinematography (CNC)) of France to discuss possible areas of cooperation and soon after, you signed a cooperation agreement” Boccoz said.

Boccoz also recognized Diño’s efforts to host the Policy Forum on Government Support on Film Productions in 2018 — showed Filipino legislators and stakeholders how the French levy fund created self-sustainable funding for the French film and audiovisual industry — for them to understand the possible assistance that can also be implemented in the Philippines.

The list also includes the Philippines’ participation in the biggest animation festival, the Annecy International Animated Film Festival (MIFA), and how Diño worked hand-in-hand with the French embassy and its regional attaché in Singapore to host an animation teaching workshop in Manila, with no less than the experts from Annecy.

To top it all, Boccoz cited the efforts of Diño in paving the way for the signing of the co-production treaty between France and the Philippines, which she said “would open doors for Filipino films to the grants and funding tools available to French films.” Though the treaty has yet to be finalized, the French ambassador thanked the former FDCP chairman for championing what could be a great achievement for Philippine cinema.

“You really worked hard for that, and the representatives of different agencies and CNC can all attest to your commitment,” Boccoz said.

“Your energy, your talent, your intensive work have been recognized by the French professionals and by all French institutions,” the envoy added.

In her acceptance speech [full copy of which is available today on her column “The Future is Creative,” on page C4], Diño said that the award acknowledges not only her work but also the power of cinema to connect people from different cultures.

“I believed that in forming authentic relationships with colleagues, partners, and collaborators, I could get them on board to help me in my vision of an empowered and strong film industry. This was how this fruitful collaboration with France blossomed into impactful cooperation that bridged Philippine and French Cinema together,” Diño said.

Advocates for the Philippine cinema — including award-winning directors Brillante Mendoza, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna and Bibeth Orteza; actresses Bela Padilla and Angel Aquino; and public servants and film industry advocates Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Quezon City First District Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, and Pangasinan Fourth District Rep. Christopher “Toff” de Venecia — witnessed Diño’s knighthood.

The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is considered the highest civilian award given by France to individuals who have significantly contributed to furthering the arts in France and around the world.

Diño is the first Filipino chevalier awardee for cinema and is second only to Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh to be knighted in the field for Southeast Asia.

Source: Manila Times

Pinay Teen Dominates the Table: Capturing Double Gold in Table Tennis Championships

June 20, 2023June 20, 2023 admin Human Achievement, News, Sport & Game 2023 Southeast Asia Youth table tennis championships, Kheith Rhynne Cruz, Philippines

Kheith Rhynne Cruz bagged two gold medals for the Philippines in the 2023 Southeast Asia Youth table tennis championships in Brunei over the weekend.

Cruz ruled the girls’ U16 singles competition, beating Wirakarn Tayapitak of Thailand, 11-7, 11-4, 8-11, 11-4, 7-11, 11-3.

She also captured the title in U19 doubles together with Chrishien Mae Santillan, defeating Wirakarn and Wanwisa Aueawiriyayothin, 11-2, 11-9, 11-7.

The 16-year-old Cruz earlier won silver in the SEA Table Tennis Association event, along with Santillan, Althea Jade Gudes, Jelaine Monteclaro, and Zachi Chua in the girls’ 19U team event. Santillan also claimed a bronze medal in the U19 girls singles tournament.

“These remarkable victories, coupled with the unwavering support of our coaches, staff, and the PTTF showcase the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines our athletes,” Philippine Table Tennis Federation Inc. president Ting Ledesma said.

“This momentous achievement not only etches a golden chapter in Philippine table tennis history but also propels our nation to new heights on the global stage.”

Also winning medals for the Philippines are: Jigsaya Cabrido and Joanna Isabelle Esguerra (bronze – cadet girls doubles), Khevine Khieth Cruz and Carl Benjamin De Los Reyes (bronze – cadet boys doubles), and Ray Joshua Lawrence Manlapaz (bronze – U17 boys singles).

The team’s coaches are Annabelle Commendador, Lauro Crisostomo, and Johann Remaneses.

Source: ABS-CBN News

Philippines Set to Receive First-ever LNG Cargo for Power Generation

April 3, 2023April 3, 2023 admin Business Trade, News Philippines

The Philippines has bought its first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo, which will be delivered this month, bound for a new terminal that will fuel a 1,200-megawatt power plant, global energy trader Vitol said on Monday (Apr 3).

Vitol Asia, a supply and trading unit of Vitol Group, will supply the LNG cargo to San Miguel Global Power Holdings from its global LNG portfolio, Vitol said in a statement.

It did not disclose the volume and price.

The purchase comes after spot LNG prices in Asia fell sharply from all-time highs last year when Russia cut gas supplies to Europe following the Ukraine war and sparked a flurry of purchases by European nations.

Faced with declining output from its Malampaya natural gas field, the Philippines is the newest LNG buyer in the region as it seeks alternative fuel supply for existing gas-fired power plants producing more than 3,000 MW, including San Miguel Global’s 1,200-MW Ilijan power plant.

The LNG cargo will be delivered around mid-April to Singapore-based Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific’s (AG&P) import terminal in the Philippines.

Source: Business Times Singapore

Southeast Asia

March 27, 2021April 2, 2023 admin Nature, News Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laso, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Southeast ASia, Thailand, Vietnam

The Southeast Asian region is geographically situated between China to the north, India to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the south and east. Interestingly, the term “Southeast Asia” only gained popularity during World War II; prior to this, the region was referred to by a variety of names including the East Indies, the Indochina region, and the Malay Peninsula. There are many fascinating facts about the countries in this region. 🇧🇳🇰🇭🇮🇩🇱🇦🇲🇾🇲🇲🇵🇭🇸🇬🇹🇭🇻🇳🇹🇱

🇧🇳 Brunei – One of the world’s smallest countries, Brunei is also one of the wealthiest due to its abundant oil and gas reserves.

🇰🇭Cambodia – Home to the impressive temple complex of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is known for its rich cultural heritage and fascinating history.

🇮🇩Indonesia – With over 18,000 islands and a diverse mix of cultures and languages, Indonesia is one of the world’s most complex and fascinating nations.

🇱🇦Laos – A landlocked country of stunning natural beauty, Laos is known for its traditional culture, delicious food, and friendly people.

🇲🇾Malaysia – A melting pot of cultures and religions, Malaysia is home to diverse landscapes, from the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur to the lush jungles of Borneo.

🇲🇲Myanmar – Formerly known as Burma, this country boasts an incredible cultural heritage, including the ancient city of Bagan and the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda.

🇵🇭The Philippines – An archipelago of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly people, and rich history.

🇸🇬Singapore – One of the world’s most prosperous nations, Singapore is known for its clean streets, impressive skyline, and delicious street food.

🇹🇭Thailand – A land of golden temples, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, Thailand is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

🇻🇳Vietnam – A country of incredible natural beauty and fascinating history, Vietnam is known for its stunning landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people.