Pacific Prime Donates USD 5,400 (PHP 318,886) to Earthquake Victims in Northern Cebu

^{Over 450 individuals and families received emergency relief through the combined efforts of Pacific Prime Cebu, Singapore, Dubai, and global leadership.}


CEBU, Philippines, Oct 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Pacific Prime has successfully led an emergency relief mission to support victims of the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu on September 30th, 2025. The disaster left hundreds displaced, mourning, and in urgent need of shelter, food, and clean water.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251028056955/en/  

In just three days, 57 team members and volunteers helped gather and pack relief goods. Among them, 25 volunteers traveled north to deliver supplies directly to the most severely affected areas. Staff from Pacific Prime offices in Cebu, Singapore, and Dubai contributed generously, with donations matched by global leaders Neil Raymond and Vittoria Depino. A total of PHP 318,886 (USD $5,400) was raised, allowing the team to support over 450 individuals and families across five municipalities: Bogo (ground zero), Medellin, Borbon, San Remigio, and Daanbantayan.

The initial wave of aid reached 354 families and individuals, with the team enduring a 12-hour journey to deliver food and supplies. The following week, with remaining funds and support from Lacson & Lacson – Pacific Prime’s local partner through the Worldwide Broker Network (WBN), the world’s largest network of independent insurance brokers and employee benefits consultants, additional relief was delivered. This included drinking water, blankets, sleeping mats, and sacks of rice for over 100 residents still living in tents due to ongoing aftershocks.

Lohrie May Labra, head of Pacific Prime Cebu, said: “In times of crises, our team rises – driven by compassion, collaboration, and community spirit. A huge thank you goes out to all the volunteers for their dedication and courage, enduring long hours and tough conditions. It’s truly inspiring to be part of an organization that leads with heart, one that lives its values of Impact, Courage, and Selflessness.”

This initiative, while not part of the originally planned CSR activities for the year, became one of the most meaningful. It reflects Pacific Prime’s commitment to its CSR pillars, where Community stands as a core value–driving efforts to support those in need and build resilience in times of crisis.

About Pacific Prime

Established in 2000, Pacific Prime is an award-winning global insurance brokerage and employee benefits specialist that offers individual and corporate insurance solutions. With a USD $750 million premium under management, Pacific Prime is now the third-largest employee benefits broker in the Asia Pacific, having acquired CXA Group’s brokerage arms in 2021. The brokerage has over 1,000 employees and 15 offices worldwide, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand, Malaysia, the UAE, the UK, the US, Mexico, and the Philippines.

To learn more about Pacific Prime, please visit: https://www.pacificprime.com/corporate

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251028056955/en/

Contact

Stephen Ho
Chief Marketing Officer
Pacific Prime
+852 3589 0508

Source : Pacific Prime

CGTN: How China injects stability and fresh momentum into Asia-Pacific development

 

Ahead of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, set to be held in Gyeongju, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1, CGTN has published an article highlighting how China has continuously injected stability and fresh momentum to the development of the Asia-Pacific region over the years.


BEIJING, Oct 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just days after the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) concluded in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping is going to make his first overseas trip since the CPC plenum — to attend the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and to pay a state visit to South Korea from October 30 to November 1.

As the session reaffirmed China's long-term vision and steady commitment to sharing growth opportunities with the world, observers are watching closely to see how China's leadership will bring new energy to Asia-Pacific development and help guide the region through increasing geopolitical and economic challenges.

"There has never been a more critical time for APEC," said Eduardo Pedrosa, executive director of the APEC Secretariat, in a recent interview. He expressed his anticipation of President Xi's participation, emphasizing that China has long been a strong supporter and contributor to APEC.

Openness and connectivity for win-win cooperation

On the Pacific coast of Peru, the Chancay Port — South America's first smart and green port — will soon celebrate its first anniversary of operation. Described as a "New Inca Trail," the project has created new trade routes between Latin America and Asia, serving as a clear example of openness and connectivity in the Asia-Pacific. 

When President Xi attended the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima in 2024, he watched the port's opening via video link. He has called for fully utilizing APEC's role as an "incubator of global economic and trade rules," promoting regional integration and connectivity, and removing barriers to the free flow of trade, investment, technology, and services.

For decades, China has been a positive force for openness in the Asia-Pacific. In the first three quarters of 2025, China's trade with other APEC economies increased by 2 percent year-over-year, reaching 19.41 trillion yuan ($2.73 trillion), or 57.8 percent of its total trade. The ongoing growth of goods ranging from textiles to electronics and auto parts reflects the region's strong shared opportunities.

China's actions reflect its consistent stance against protectionism and unilateralism. From the high-quality implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to proactive steps toward joining the CPTPP and Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA), Beijing has been contributing Chinese strength to building an open Asia-Pacific economy.

Driving innovation to share development opportunities

At the 2023 APEC CEO Summit, President Xi urged regional economies to "seize the opportunities of the new technological revolution" and to work together to promote digital, intelligent, and green transformation. He emphasized the importance of strengthening scientific and technological cooperation and creating an open, fair, and non-discriminatory environment for innovation.

This vision is gaining ground across the region. At the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo, 62 projects involving new energy, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials were signed — many focused on joint R&D rather than just trade. In Chile, Chinese-made double-decker electric buses played a key role in transporting people during the 19th Pan American Games in Santiago, providing clean energy for a continental sporting event and demonstrating China's sustainable technologies on a global scale.

Herman Tiu Laurel, president of the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute, a Manila-based think tank, observed that China's high-tech innovation and green transition open new frontiers for supply chains and create fresh opportunities for Asia-Pacific economies.

Fostering inclusive growth for shared prosperity

In late September, a China-supported Juncao and upland rice demonstration center was opened in Goroka, the capital of Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands Province. The project, a new achievement in China-Papua New Guinea collaboration on poverty reduction, is helping local communities boost food security and build sustainable livelihoods. It provides a glimpse into how China's development approach is changing lives across the Asia-Pacific.

President Xi has reaffirmed that common development remains the main goal of Asia-Pacific cooperation. Following this vision, China has been actively taking action rather than just promoting the idea.

From advancing initiatives within APEC to increase household income and promote cluster-based growth among small and medium-sized enterprises, to inviting Asia-Pacific partners to join the Global Development Initiative (GDI), China has consistently strengthened collaboration in poverty reduction, food security, industrialization, and development financing with regional economies to maintain steady momentum in the region's pursuit of shared prosperity.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-10-28/How-China-injects-stability-fresh-momentum-into-Asia-Pacific-growth-1HPVyFCnl9S/p.html


Contact: CGTN
Email: jiang.simin@cgtn.com 

SOURCE: China Global Television Network Corporation

Multiply Group Proposes Merger With 2PointZero, Ghitha Holding Via Share Swap

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- Multiply Group, the Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company, has announced board approval for a major share swap deal to acquire 2PointZero and Ghitha Holding, a move that could reshape its investment portfolio and boost its capital base to 8.64 billion Emirati dirhams. (100 Emirati dirhams = RM115.10)

In a statement, Multiply said the proposed transaction, still awaiting shareholder and regulatory nods, would see the group issue approximately 23.36 billion new shares, consolidating assets under a single listed platform.

“This transaction represents a natural evolution of our portfolio strategy, designed to optimise scale and strengthen the platforms we have built over the past years,” said the group Chairman, Syed Basar Shueb, highlighting the strategic alignment and portfolio efficiency expected from the merger.

Meanwhile, its group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Samia Bouazza emphasised the broader vision, stating that the merger goes beyond balance sheet consolidation—it is building a global investment entity spanning 85 countries and serving a billion people.

“Our focus is to grow our bottom line both organically and inorganically, unlock value through AI, and deliver consistent, long-term returns for our shareholders,” she said.

Bouazza added that the combined entity would be valued at around 120 billion Emirati dirhams, with diversified operations across logistics, packaging, beauty, media, and more—positioning Multiply as a leading global investment group.

2PointZero contributes scalable assets in energy, mining, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven financial services, while Ghitha Holding’s broad footprint in food production and distribution supports national food security.

Together, these businesses represent complementary strengths across the energy and consumer sectors, two fundamental pillars of every economy, powering everyday life and advancing the global transition toward cleaner, smarter systems.

This strategic acquisition via reorganisation remains subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, with additional details to be disclosed following completion of the review process.

-- BERNAMA

60 Years of Culinary Tradition, Reborn Through Innovation: The New Journey of Chossijib

BUSAN, South Korea, Oct 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Gungjung Haemultang Chossijib (hereafter Chossijib), a renowned Korean seafood stew Haemultang restaurant located in Busan, South Korea, continues to revolutionize itself while preserving 60 years of culinary heritage.

In 1959, a small seafood soup restaurant opened in an alleyway in Busan. Inside its boiling pot was more than just broth — it was filled with decades of dedication and the craftsmanship of a true artisan. From that moment on, Chossijib has faithfully preserved the authentic flavor of Korean seafood soup for over six decades.

The philosophy of Chossijib is simple: “Fresh ingredients, honest cooking, and a comforting meal.” Even though many years have passed, these principles have never changed. Yet, Chossijib has not remained bound by tradition. In 2023, the company established the Chossijib Research Lab, combining decades of culinary expertise with modern innovation to develop and distribute ready-to-cook meal products. This allows customers to enjoy Chossijib’s signature seafood soup easily at home — bringing the taste of tradition to everyday life.

Chossijib’s recent steps are more than just business expansion; they represent a journey of innovation built upon heritage. The company registered a patent for its seafood broth manufacturing method in 2022, was selected as a Busan Star Small Business in 2024, and has been featured on several national TV programs, gaining recognition across the country.

These achievements embody Chossijib’s belief that “the true taste never changes, but the way we share it can evolve.”

Today, Chossijib is evolving beyond being a traditional restaurant to become a research-driven brand, aiming to globalize Korean seafood soup. Chossijib stated that the last 60-year journey has been a story of sincerity and trust. The restaurant will continue to reinterpret traditional flavors with a modern sensibility and share the true value of Korean cuisine with the world.

About Chossijib

Gungjung Haemultang Chossijib is a traditional restaurant specializing in seafood and offal soup, operating for two generations since 1959. It focuses on fresh ingredients, providing comfortable dining experiences, and preserving culinary heritage. In 2023, the brand established the Chossijib Research Center for menu development and ready-to-heat meal production, continuing its innovation by reinterpreting traditional flavors into convenient meal products.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251013127170/en/

Contact

Chossijib
CEO
Juhyun Lee
aginjh2729@naver.com 

Source : Chossijib

--BERNAMA 

Eco Expo Asia Opens at AsiaWorld-Expo in Late October to Promote Green Technologies

 

^{2025 ECO Expo Asia}


HONG KONG, Oct 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The 20th edition of Eco Expo Asia, themed Green Innovations for Carbon Neutrality, will be held from 28 to 31 October at AsiaWorld-Expo, attracting over 300 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions. The Expo will spotlight three key areas – Circular Economy and Waste Management, Green & Smart Mobility, and ESG-related Services, presenting diverse solutions for environmental protection and fostering green business opportunities.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251012131616/en/ 

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Jenny Koo said: “As a business platform for ESG and sustainable solutions, the Expo will showcase the latest products and technologies in new energy, green living and environmental protection. This year, Eco Expo Asia will attract over 300 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions, with strong participation from government suppliers from the Chinese Mainland, as well as from ASEAN and Belt and Road countries, helping industries worldwide seize the vast opportunities created by the green economy.”

Highlight event, Eco Asia Conference, will bring together global officials and experts to exchange insights on pressing environmental issues. Other activities include the FHKI Q-Mark Low Carbon Restaurant Award 2025, 6th Hydrogen Economy Forum and Experience Sharing Forum. The last day of the Expo on 31 October will be a Public Day, with complimentary admission for the general public. Visitors can participate in a series of seminars and green workshops. 

Register Now for FREE admission - https://tinyurl.com/4y5aymt7

Website: www.ecoexpoasia.com 

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251012131616/en/

Contact

Media enquiries:
Please contact HKTDC's Exhibitions Department:
Ken Tsang / Samson Kong
Tel: (852) 2240 4136 / 2240 4865
Email: ken.mc.tsang@hktdc.org / samson.ph.kong@hktdc.org

Source : Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)