4 Ways Filipinos Can Take Charge of their Health

Every year on World Health Day, global attention turns to the importance of protecting people’s well-being. In the Philippines, there is an opportunity to strengthen the healthcare system’s emphasis on preventive care alongside treatment.

Many Filipinos seek medical attention only when symptoms become severe. A report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) found that in 2024, more than a third of Filipinos died from illness without seeing a medical professional beforehand1, reflecting the country’s long-standing challenge of delayed health-seeking behavior. 

This statistic highlights the growing need to strengthen preventive healthcare — taking proactive steps to protect one’s health before conditions become serious. Beyond improving health outcomes, prevention can also help individuals and families avoid the emotional and financial strain that often accompanies severe medical conditions. 

Here are four practical ways Filipinos can prioritize preventive healthcare and protect their well-being. 

Make regular health screenings part of your routine 

Many serious health conditions develop quietly. High blood pressure, diabetes, and even some cancers may not show obvious symptoms in their early stages. 

 https://businessmirror.com.ph/2026/02/02/psa-over-one-third-of-pinoys-died-unattended-in-2024/

Regular health checkups help doctors detect potential risks early and recommend the right steps before conditions worsen. Simple tests — such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and blood sugar monitoring — can go a long way in identifying problems early. 

Catching a condition early often means simpler treatment, better outcomes, and lower healthcare costs in the long run. 

Build healthier habits one step at a time 

Preventive healthcare starts with everyday choices. Eating balanced meals, staying physically active, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can greatly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Adding a short daily walk, choosing healthier food options, or cutting down on smoking and excessive drinking are simple steps that contribute to better long-term health. Over time, these habits help strengthen the body and improve overall quality of life. 

Understand your personal health risks 

Everyone’s health profile is different. Factors such as family history, age, lifestyle, and environment can influence a person’s risk for certain illnesses. Knowing these things makes it easier to take action before small concerns turn into bigger health issues. 

Talking regularly with healthcare professionals can help individuals better understand their unique health risks and determine which screenings or preventive measures are most appropriate for them. 

Don’t forget to prepare financially for unexpected health emergencies 

Even with the best preventive practices, unexpected medical situations can still happen. That’s why financial preparedness is an important part of protecting one’s health and family. 

Hospital stays, treatments, and long-term care can bring significant expenses. Planning ahead helps ensure that when medical needs arise, families can focus on recovery instead of worrying about the financial impact. 

Insurance solutions designed for health protection can provide that extra layer of support, helping families manage potential medical costs when they need it most.  

For Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), a major life insurer in the country, encouraging healthier practices goes hand in hand with promoting financial preparedness. By supporting healthier lifestyles while helping Filipinos plan for possible medical expenses, the company aims to encourage a more holistic approach to protection. 

Sun Life Grepa offers the following solutions to complement preventive health planning: 

Sun Grepa Fit and Well: A health protection plan that covers 100+ critical illnesses and provides comprehensive coverage up to age 100. It also offers a plan option that can help cover critical illness-related hospitalization, post-hospital care, and home recovery expenses.

Sun Grepa ProHealth: An affordable health protection plan that provides benefits in case diagnosed with a covered early or late-stage critical illnesses. It offers simple application process with no medical exam.

 Sun Grepa Senior Care: A health solution made specifically for those in their pre-retiree and retire life stages. It provides a significant financial benefit in case diagnosed with any of seventeen (17) common critical illnesses for that life stage.

 

To know which plan best fits your lifestyle and health needs, consult a Sun Life Grepa advisor or visit www.sunlifegrepa.com.  

 

 

GCash Upholds Zero Tolerance on "Quishing" Scam, Blocks Fake Illegal Sites

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, has intensified its crackdown on illegal merchants, blocking suspicious accounts and scam websites that impersonate official GCash payment pages to defraud users.

 

With rising transportation costs adding to broader economic pressures, GCash continues to strengthen its anti-fraud efforts as Filipinos become more deliberate with every peso they spend, underscoring the importance of staying vigilant against schemes and safeguarding their hard-earned money.

 

The rise of “quishing” scams

Recent monitoring has uncovered schemes where fake websites mimic legitimate GCash payment pages and use QRPh codes to collect payments. An example of a growing scam flagged by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is known as “quishing” or QR phishing.

 

In these schemes, fraudsters exploit QR codes to redirect users to malicious payment pages or steal sensitive information, while misusing official branding to appear credible and deceive users into completing unauthorized transactions.

 

In some cases, fraudulent QR codes are embedded in posters, emails, receipts, or messages. When scanned, these can redirect users to fake login pages for e-wallets or banks, or even to sites that install harmful software on their devices. As a result, users may unknowingly send money to illegitimate accounts, even if the transaction appears familiar or routine.

 

What to watch out for
GCash reminds users to stay alert for key warning signs before completing any payment:

·        Suspicious website URLs that imitate GCash domains (e.g., “gcash-payments.com”, “gcsh.payment.com” instead of the official “payments.gcash.com”)

·        Mismatch in merchant identity, especially when the name displayed is random, incomplete, or unrelated to the actual business (e.g., “XJ82q” or “Merchant_123”)

·        Payment pages that feel inconsistent or unfamiliar, despite using GCash or QRPh logos

If any of these signs are present, users should stop the transaction immediately.

 

Proactive enforcement and collaboration

GCash has blocked wallets linked to these activities and escalated fraudulent sites for takedown. The company continues to work closely with government partners to strengthen enforcement and disrupt online fraud.

 

These efforts build on GCash’s sustained anti-fraud and cybersecurity campaigns such as GSafe Tayo. In 2025, GCash, in collaboration with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), has blocked over 3,200 merchants linked to illicit activities, which are often used as channels for fraudulent transactions and scams.

 

“By proactively blocking unauthorized actors and reporting them to our regulators and authorities, we are helping protect Filipinos and maintain trust in the country’s digital financial ecosystem,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer at GCash.

 

“Scammers are evolving alongside digital payments,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer at GCash. “We have zero tolerance for these actors and are actively blocking and reporting them to protect our users.”

 

“Protecting users is at the core of our platform,” Geronilla added. “We will continue to strengthen our safeguards and work hand-in-hand with the government to keep the ecosystem safe.”

 

Protecting every peso
GCash urges users to verify website URLs and merchant details before completing transactions and to stop immediately if anything appears suspicious.

GCash users can report suspected scams through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by chatting with Gigi and selecting “I want to report a scam”, or by calling the official GCash hotline at 2882.

 

Users may also report incidents to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group at (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or acg@pnp.gov.ph, and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or report@cicc.gov.ph.

 

By staying vigilant and using trusted platforms, Filipinos can better protect their funds and ensure that every peso counts.

More information is available at www.gcash.com

Secure Your Future, Empower Your Team: A Labor Day Guide to Smart Retirement Planning

Labor Day is more than just a well-deserved break. It is a moment to honor the hard work that builds our nation and a prime opportunity to look toward the future. The focus is shifting from the daily grind to long-term security.

Whether you are an individual professional aiming for a graceful exit from the workforce or a business leader looking to protect your greatest asset, your people, understanding the landscape of retirement is essential.

The Reality of Retirement Readiness

Recent data from the Retirement Index highlights a significant gap in how prepared most professionals feel about their post-work years. While the ambition to retire comfortably is universal, the roadmap often remains unclear.

Retirement shouldn't be a period of financial uncertainty. It should be a "Golden Era," the time to enjoy the fruits of decades of labor without compromising your lifestyle. To bridge this gap, proactive planning is required. Traditionally, the three-legged stool of retirement must be sturdy in order to ensure a secure retirement: pension from social security, pension from employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings. However, the reality is, state pensions and company-sponsored pension plans are often insufficient, if any. Meanwhile, personal savings are usually spent on more immediate financial and health needs. Therefore, you need a guaranteed income stream, a sturdy third leg in your retirement stool, to ensure your transition to retirement is seamless and your personal savings are preserved.

Securing your future starts with a shift in mindset: treat your retirement fund as an essential "bill" you pay your future self. InLife’s Retire Assure, the country’s first true retirement product, available for Filipinos aged 18 to 60 years old, gives you the following features: 

Guaranteed monthly pension so there will be no guesswork as to how much to set aside on a monthly basis to cover daily expenses;

Growth potential through cash dividends that have the possibility to increase your monthly income to account for potential medical costs and inflation, and preserve your savings for leisure and other expenses; 

Guaranteed issuance feature that doesn’t require medical examinations; 

Life insurance protection where beneficiaries stand to receive the higher of 110% of premiums paid, less payouts, or the guaranteed cash values in case of demise; 

Flexible and convenient payments and payouts through annual, semi-annual, quarterly, or monthly payments and the option to choose a peso bank account for receiving your monthly pension and potential dividends; and

Limited payment period allowing you to set aside a portion of your income over a period of five or ten years, or through regular payments until the age of 59 or 64.

They say, the best time to prepare was yesterday; the second-best time is today. Starting early can significantly amplify your pension fund. However, those who are transitioning to a more senior role in their careers aged 48 to 73, who were not able to start their retirement fund much earlier, may also avail of Retire Assure 2, the two-pay variant payable in two annual installments. 

“At InLife, we believe retirement shouldn't be a source of anxiety, but something to be anticipated. Retire Assure empowers Filipinos to take control of their 'next chapter' with certainty. We want to help them build a future where their hard-earned lifestyle is protected and they can live with dignity," said InLife Chief Marketing Officer Gae L. Martinez. 

For the employer: Strengthening the modern workforce

In today’s competitive talent market, professional fulfillment is deeply tied to financial peace of mind. Workplace benefits are no longer just perks but are strategic investments that encourage productivity and promotes a holistic well-being, ensuring enterprise sustainability. 

By integrating retirement preparedness into your company’s benefits package, you provide employees with more than just a paycheck; you give a future, guaranteeing a stronger three-legged stool of retirement for them. Consider InLife’s Comprehensive Group Plan (CGP) which offers the following: 

Group life insurance and retirement to help you comply with laws such as R.A. 7641 (Retirement Pay Law) and R.A. 4917 (tax exemptions on private retirement plans);

Fund Protection and Insurance Benefits with the retirement fund protected from depletion due to mortality and disability; 

Guaranteed interest as the plan earns interest at a guaranteed rate to build up your employees’ retirement fund. When actual earnings of the fund exceed the guaranteed rate, your company gets an additional 50% of the excess amount; 

Preservation of Capital with the fund guaranteed against capital loss;

Administrative Fee that is only applied on fresh funds/new deposits and not on the accumulated retirement fund;

Supplemental savings that enables you to customize your plan to allow employees to add their own contribution voluntarily and save more for their future needs; and

Tax qualification assistance as we handle the BIR application process to qualify your retirement plan so that retirement benefits remain tax-exempt for your employees, while your company’s contributions are fully tax-deductible.

"Our CGP is designed to turn retirement preparedness into a competitive advantage for businesses. We want to help drive higher engagement and loyalty within the organization, while supporting employers in their efforts to provide their employees opportunities to build a more substantial nest egg for their future,” said Martinez 

Labor Day should remind us to commit to a future where every worker can retire without worries. By combining individual foresight with robust corporate support, we can ensure that the finish line of a career is just the beginning of a vibrant new journey.

For more information on Retire Assure, visithttps://www.inlife.com.ph/retirement-insurance. For more information on InLife’s CGP, visit https://www.inlife.com.ph/group-insurance or email corporatesales@insular.com.ph.

Founders Donuts and Nanyang Briing Fresh Flavors to SM City Marilao

Sweeten up the day and bring comfort to your palate as SM City Marilao officially welcomes Founders Donuts and Nanyang.

Founders Donuts serves customers with fresh donuts of different flavors, coffee, and artisan tea, making it an ideal place for those looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, grab something to take home, or just indulge while shopping.

Nanyang, on the other hand, serves authentic yet affordable Singapore cuisine right on the spot. From the comforting classics and signature dishes and drinks, it offers an inviting ambiance for shoppers who wish to unwind and recharge.

Together, Founders Donuts and Nanyang add more exciting dining options to SM City Marilao, giving more reasons for mallgoers not only to come back but also to enjoy every single visit!

Home Credit Sustains Wellness Momentum and Brings Takbo #ParaSaLife to Cebu, Security Bank Supports

Manila, Philippines - Home Credit Philippines successfully concluded Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026 after gathering thousands of runners across its Manila and Cebu legs, reinforcing its advocacy for overall wellness and financial well-being. With Security Bank as one of the event sponsors, this year’s run highlighted how maintaining good health can help Filipinos stay focused, make sound decisions, and move closer to their life goals.

The flagship wellness run kicked off on February 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds, where close to 4,500, runners and pets joined the Manila leg. The event continued in Cebu on March 29 at Citi di Mare by Filinvest drawing around 1,500 participants and completing this year’s two-city Takbo #ParaSaLife series.

Takbo #ParaSaLife features race categories for runners of all levels, including a 1KM Pet Run, 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM distances. Participants from different age groups and fitness levels took part in the event, highlighting how staying active supports overall wellness and helps individuals stay confident in pursuing both personal and financial goals.

For Home Credit, promoting financial wellness goes beyond providing accessible financing solutions. Through Takbo #ParaSaLife, the company encourages Filipinos to look at overall well-being as an important part of achieving their goals, recognizing that being healthy helps people stay disciplined, think clearly, and make better decisions for their future.

“Takbo #ParaSaLife reflects our belief that overall wellness plays a big role in helping people move closer to their goals,” said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. “When people feel healthy and confident, they are more prepared to make responsible financial decisions, plan ahead, and take meaningful steps toward the things they want to achieve. Through initiatives like this, we hope to inspire more Filipinos to stay active, stay financially ready, and do more #ParaSaLife.”

Security Bank supported the Manila and Cebu legs of the run as one of the event sponsors, sharing the same commitment to encouraging Filipinos to build strong habits both physically and financially. The partnership also highlights how staying active and saving regularly can help individuals prepare for the future with greater confidence.

“Security Bank is proud to support initiatives like Takbo #ParaSaLife that promote both physical wellness and financial awareness,” said Laurice Rachelle Lupisan, Partnerships Head, Vice President of Security Bank Corporation. “Taking care of one’s health and finances goes hand in hand. As Filipinos work toward their personal goals, we encourage them to also take simple steps toward financial readiness, such as building their savings and using the Security Bank App to manage their money more easily.”

Beyond the racecourse, participants enjoyed warm-up sessions, recovery activities, and interactive booths that created an engaging experience for runners, families, and pets alike. The event served as a reminder that small, consistent steps—whether staying active, managing expenses, or setting aside savings—can help people stay on track toward their goals.

With strong participation in both Manila and Cebu, Home Credit continues to strengthen Takbo #ParaSaLife as its flagship wellness initiative, with support from Security Bank in encouraging Filipinos to build habits that support both health and financial stability. Staying active through Home Credit’s Takbo #ParaSaLife and starting a savings account through the Security Bank App are simple steps that can help people move closer to doing more #ParaSaLife.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.    

 

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).    

 

McDonald’s Philippines Turns Over 56th Bahay Bulilit to the City of Manila

McDonald’s Philippines and the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines officially turned over the 56th Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center to the City of Manila earlier in April.

In a ceremonial event held at the McDonald’s United Nations–Del Pilar store, McDonald’s officials handed over the key to the latest Bahay Bulilit Learning Center to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, as well as other city officials. Located in Boystown Manila, this Bahay Bulilit is also the second such facility in the city following the one in Quirino.

As the newest Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in the country, Bahay Bulilit Boystown actively supports the early childhood care and development needs of young learners in the community. The nationwide network of 56 Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers serves over 5,000 preschoolers every year.

“Today marks an important milestone for us with our Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit efforts in Manila. We remain committed to working alongside partners to support workers, families, and communities in meaningful ways. The opening of the second Bahay Bulilit in Manila is also an expression of our continuing partnership with the city, not only through business, but also through programs that address community needs, such as education and employment, among others.” ~Margot Torres, McDonald’s Philippines Managing Director

Joining Mayor Domagoso at the event were Manila Vice Mayor Angela Lei Ilagan Atienza-Valdepeñas, City Administrator Atty. Eduardo Quintos XIV, and Manila Department of Social Welfare Head Jay R. dela Fuente. Also present at the turnover were top McDonald’s officials, which included Torres; Ben Marasigan, Vice President for Human Capital Group; Maricar Angeles, RMHC Executive Director; and Howard Lance Uyking, Corporate Communications Director.

In the same event, Mayor Domagoso provided rice assistance for McDonald’s crew members, including senior citizens who are part of the company’s inclusive hiring program, M for All. The Biyayang Bigas Para sa Maynila rice distribution was part of the city’s social relief measures, in partnership with the Office of the President under the 2026 Local Government Support Fund.

Since 2019, McDonald’s has been working closely with the City of Manila to provide economic opportunities for senior citizens. At present, as many as 51 senior citizens are actively working in 26 company-owned and franchise stores in Manila.

Easy Energy SAVERS at SM

With longer, hotter days and a growing focus on smarter energy use, homeowners are turning to a new generation of smart energy essentials that blend convenience, performance, and sustainability. At SM, practical solutions from ACE Hardware, SM Home, and SM Appliance Center make it easier to keep homes running efficiently without overthinking daily routines.

SOLAR POWER ON THE GO

Portable solar solutions are becoming a practical entry point to energy-smart living. At ACE Hardware, brands like Anker offer lightweight solar panels such as the SOLIX PS100 and PS200, designed for everyday use, not just outdoor trips. With up to 23% energy conversion efficiency and adjustable angles for better sunlight capture, these panels can generate usable power even in less-than-ideal conditions. Pair these solar panels with portable power stations like the SOLIX C200 or the high-capacity C1000 Gen 2, and you have a reliable backup for gadgets and even small appliances. The bigger model can power multiple devices at once, recharge in under an hour, and even lets you monitor usage through an app. This makes it easier to stay aware of how much energy you are actually consuming.

SOLAR LIGHTING FOR OUTDOOR SPACES 

Lighting is one of those everyday essentials that quietly adds to your monthly bill. Switching to solar-powered options can make a noticeable difference over time. Trusted names like Philips offer solar flood lights in 4W, 6W, and 10W variants, ideal for everything from small gates to wider driveways. Built for tropical conditions, they provide dependable brightness without tapping into your home’s electricity. 

For more flexible lighting, Firefly LED solar lamps are a practical choice. They are dimmable, can last up to 40 hours on a full charge, and include protection features that extend battery life. That means fewer replacements and less energy waste over time. 

There is also room for style. The Living Accents Bamboo Solar Lamp blends natural materials with function. It runs on solar energy and can be filled with citronella oil, adding a soft glow while helping keep insects at bay. It is a small upgrade that brings both comfort and efficiency to outdoor evenings.

INVERTER APPLIANCES FOR EFFICIENCY

Inside the home, inverter technology is becoming a go-to for energy-conscious households. Unlike traditional appliances that run at full power all the time, inverter models adjust based on actual need, reducing unnecessary energy use. At SM Home and SM Appliance Center, options from brands like Hanabishi, Panasonic, and TCL make upgrading easier. Think inverter refrigerators that maintain cooling efficiently, tower fans that regulate airflow without overworking, or air conditioners that stabilize room temperature without constant power spikes. Even washer-dryer combos now use inverter systems to optimize each cycle. These appliances maintain performance while reducing power spikes and overall consumption.

SMARTER KITCHEN CHOICES

Daily cooking is another area where energy quietly accumulates. The good news is that a few smart swaps can go a long way. At SM Home, brands like Imarflex offer kitchen essentials designed with efficiency in mind. A digital slow cooker, for example, uses low, steady heat to prepare larger meals while using less energy. Meanwhile, infrared and induction cookers deliver direct heat, cooking food faster and more efficiently than traditional stoves. 

From solar solutions to inverter appliances, energy-saving upgrades are becoming more practical and accessible. At SM, households can adopt smarter choices that support comfort, convenience, and lower energy use in everyday life.

PTAA BRINGS SANTACRUZAN 2026 TO THE NATION

Philippine Travel Agencies Association partners with the Department of Tourism and actress Winwyn Marquez to stage a landmark cultural tourism event this May

​MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) will hold a General Membership Meeting and Press Conference on April 28, 2026 at the Museo de Intramuros, Manila, to formally launch its flagship cultural event, Santacruzan 2026, set to take place on May 22, 2026.

​Special guests at the press conference include celebrated actress and beauty queen Winwyn Marquez and an official representative from the Department of Tourism (DOT). Their participation underscores the significance of Santacruzan 2026 not just as a cultural celebration, but as a major driver of national tourism.

​As the country’s leading organization of travel agencies, PTAA has positioned itself at the forefront of national tourism initiatives — championing events that bring both local and international visitors to experience the depth and richness of Filipino heritage. Santacruzan 2026 is the clearest expression of that mission: a world-class cultural spectacle rooted in faith, tradition, and national identity.

​The partnership with the Department of Tourism reflects a shared commitment to making cultural tourism a cornerstone of the Philippines’ visitor economy. Together, PTAA and the DOT aim to elevate Santacruzan 2026 as a signature event on the national tourism calendar, drawing travelers from across the country and around the world.

​Santacruzan 2026 is made possible in partnership with Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), one of the country’s most trusted financial institutions. The partnership with BPI reflects a growing alignment between the business sector and the cultural tourism agenda — recognizing that investing in heritage events is investing in the Filipino nation.

​In support of local tourism professionals, PTAA will also partner with DOT-accredited tour guide and guide associations to provide curated guided tours of Intramuros in conjunction with the Santacruzan celebrations. This initiative puts local guides — whose livelihoods are deeply tied to cultural and heritage tourism — front and center during one of the year’s most significant events, ensuring they are supported and uplifted alongside the celebration.

Beyond Santacruzan 2026, PTAA is placing a deliberate focus on fiestas and religious events as key pillars of Filipino local travel. These celebrations — deeply woven into the spiritual andcommunal fabric of Philippine life — are among the country’s most compelling and authentic tourism draws. PTAA is actively working to package and promote these events to encourage Filipinos to discover their own heritage, while supporting local communities and economies across the archipelago.

Winwyn Marquez’s involvement brings both visibility and cultural resonance to the event. A celebrated figure in Philippine entertainment known for her advocacy for Filipino arts and culture, Marquez embodies the spirit of the Santacruzan — grace, heritage, and national pride.

Complementing these initiatives is Lakbay, PTAA’s dedicated business-to-business (B2B) platform connecting travel agencies with local tourism suppliers from across the Philippines. Lakbay serves as a vital marketplace where local suppliers — from provincial tour operators and homestay providers to regional festival and cultural experience organizers — can forge direct partnerships with travel agencies nationwide. The platform reinforces PTAA’s commitment to strengthening the entire local tourism supply chain, ensuring that the benefits of cultural tourism reach communities at every level of the archipelago.

Members of the media, industry stakeholders, and the public are invited to attend the April 28 press conference at Museo de Intramuros to learn more about Santacruzan 2026 and PTAA’s broader agenda for Philippine tourism this year.

CX20 Oral Spray: The Smarter Way to Oral Comfort

CX20 Oral Spray, a product of Oropharm, enters the oral care market with a powerful solution formulated to act fast, right when it matters most. 

Making its debut at the VoiceCon PH 2026, where participants experience everyday situations like long hours of speaking, exposure to air-conditioned environments, and mouth and throat dryness can quietly escalate into throat irritation and mouth discomfort. CX20 is built to interrupt that cycle, early.

Positioned as the go-to oral spray at the first sign of oral discomfort, as consumers increasingly seek solutions that are easy, convenient, and immediate, CX20 arrives at exactly the right moment. It is a solution for when the first signs of discomfort appear, not when symptoms have worsened. 

A Potent Formula That Goes Where It Matters

At the heart of CX20 is a 0.20% Chlorhexidine Gluconate formulation, a potent concentration that makes it truly effective with its precision nozzle spray, reaching challenging areas of the mouth with ease and targeting bacteria where other formats simply can't. It has a soothing and cooling effect, as it helps reduce inflammation and provide fast-relief from oral discomfort, all in a compact, carry-anywhere 30ml bottle.

Don't Wait. Act at the First "Ehem."

Everyone knows that small moment, that subtle signal that something feels off. Instead of waiting for discomfort to worsen, CX20 empowers users to act immediately, not when things are already bad enough. 

CX20 positions itself as a brand of immediate action and targeted protection, making it a first in the oral care space championing early response over delayed relief, "Basta may oral discomfort, i-CX20 agad."

Sun Life Philippines Wins 2 Silvers, 2 Golds in Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for Innovation and Impact

MANILA, PH – April 2026 – Sun Life Philippines has earned international recognition for its continued commitment to innovation, people, and purpose, winning four Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, including two Gold Stevies and two Silver Stevies, for initiatives spanning corporate social responsibility, hybrid work, talent development, and financial literacy.

 

The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards honor outstanding achievements in innovation across business practices, programs, and initiatives in the region, recognizing organizations that demonstrate excellence and impact across Asia-Pacific markets.

 

Sun Life earned a Gold Stevie Award for “Sparking Connection and Thriving Together in Hybrid Work,” recognized under Innovation in Remote or Hybrid Work Practices. The award highlights Sun Life’s people‑first approach to reimagining collaboration, connection, and culture in a hybrid work environment. The company also received a Gold Stevie Award for “Sun Pera‑Aralan: Greater Financial Health for Filipino Public School Teachers,” led by Sun Life Foundation and recognized under Innovative Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility. The program was designed to help public school teachers build healthier money habits and strengthen their long‑term financial well‑being through practical, behavior‑based financial education.

 

In addition, Sun Life received two Silver Stevie Awards. The first was awarded to “Future-Proofing Operations through Capability Development,” recognized under Innovation in Talent Development & Upskilling, highlighting the company’s focus on strengthening capabilities and equipping its workforce with future-ready skills. The second Silver Stevie was awarded to “Play for Life: Gamifying Financial Literacy to Help Filipinos Make Brighter Choices,” which was recognized for Innovation in Cross-Media Marketing. The initiative uses gamification and multiple platforms to make financial concepts more accessible, engaging, and relatable for Filipinos.

 

“These recognitions reinforce why we do what we do,” said JJ Moreno, Country Head and CEO of Sun Life Philippines. “At Sun Life, innovation is never just about new ideas or programs; it’s about the impact those ideas create. We remain deeply committed to empowering our Clients and the communities we serve, by building solutions that are relevant, inclusive, and grounded in real Filipino needs.”

 

To learn more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Food Cravings, Comfort, and Everything in Between

It’s been said time and time again that “food is the ultimate equalizer; it can comfort, heal, spark memories, or bring people together.” Honestly, it’s hard to argue with that. There are definitely days—if not every day—when you just need to find the right taste to match your mood or moment. Some days it’s something savory, other days something saucy, fried, or just familiar enough to really make your day.

Now, where do you go to eat, whatever kind of day you’re having or whatever mood you’re in? At your most loved mall, SM, here are four reliable spots at SM Foodcourt in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag that get it right—matching your craving and your mood to max out your experience.

1. Salo: Where Every Bite Feels Like Home

Sometimes, what you really crave is more than just food, it’s the cozy warmth of home sweet home. Salo delivers exactly that. With branches in most SM Foodcourts, it’s a favorite among balikbayans and locals craving for authentic local flavors. Every mouthful of Salo’s dishes is a heartwarming reminder of family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. The lechon belly is not to be missed! Crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, it’s the kind of dish that takes you instantly back home.

2. Sizzling Plate: Hot Plates, Every Time You Need It

Some days call for a little heat and a lot of fun, and the aromatic, sizzling plate comes through like a true friend, always there for you in both good times and bad. A familiar favorite that’s been around for ages, and can be found in most SM Foodcourt branches, Sizzling Plate is where you’ll find a piping-hot plate every time. Perfectly seasoned meat smothered in rich, savory gravy, with fragrant rice and vegetables on the side, make for a satisfying sizzling meal that’s a feast of flavor and memories.

3. Takoyadon: Japanese Flavors, No Passport Required

When you’re in the mood for Japanese and good company, Takoyadon is a solid pick that won’t give you jetlag. Found in select SM Food Hall branches, it offers bite-sized Japanese eats that are flavor-packed, and easy on the wallet. From takoyaki and yakisoba to donburi and udon, you and your friends can enjoy a casual bite while catching up. And the bonus? Zero-airfare.

4. Mr. Kimbob: Bibimbap For The Soul

Sometimes comfort comes in a warm, hearty meal of bibimbap, like the beloved Bibimbob from Mr. Kimbob that hits all the right notes. Warm rice, fresh vegetables, savory chicken, beef or pork, and rich sauce all stirred together make a bowl that’s pure comfort. It’s the kind of food that feels like a warm hug. Mr. Kimbob has branches in most SM Foodcourt.

TP in the Philippines Champions Women Empowerment and Inclusivity

TP in the Philippines (formerly Teleperformance) marked Women’s Month with a series of meaningful activities that promote empowerment, intersectionality, and leadership with TP Women. Through these initiatives, the organization continues to reinforce its steadfast commitment to building inclusive workplaces where women can thrive both personally and professionally.

TP Women is a global employee network that provides women across the organization with a platform to be heard, supported and empowered in their personal development and professional careers.

Inclusivity, Empowerment, and Stronger Policy for Women

Among TP’s initiatives for Women’s Month was ‘Harmony Queentuhan,’ a culture and belonging initiative that created a space for women employees to share their experiences and reflect on intersectionality in the workplace.

The discussions centered on the concept of who women are beyond their professional and personal roles, recognizing how their personal realities and responsibilities intersect with professional life and shape their experiences in the workplace. The dialogue also gave the women a platform to explore ideas for strengthening policies and opportunities for women to grow and lead.

TP in the Philippines also deepened its institutional commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive workplace through its "Building a Safer, More Inclusive Workplace for Women at TP" toolkit. The material outlines the company’s  resources, policies and support frameworks for women, covering provisions such as its Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy, Battered Women Leave, and Magna Carta for Women.

Capping the Women’s Month celebrations was the ‘EmpowerHER Leadership Summit,’ serving as the cornerstone event, which brought together leaders, advocates and allies across TP in the Philippines to discuss the realities of women in the industry, especially in an era increasingly shaped by AI.

Women in Leadership and AI

The company also participated in the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines’ (ECCP) International Women’s Day celebration, ‘Women Who Shape Tomorrow: Giving to Gain Progress,’ where Toni Tompar, Executive Vice President for Operations for TP in the Philippines, delivered an impactful message on the future of women in leadership.

A central theme of her address was the intersection of emotional intelligence (EI) and artificial intelligence (AI). Tompar encourages leaders to reimagine traditional corporate structures, and embrace human-centered skills to navigate challenges.

Tompar also shares that the most forward-thinking teams operate in favor of outcome-driven behavior and performance, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where women can excel without the constraints of outdated structures.

“It’s important we look at what we call the ‘invisible backpack’ that women continue to carry such as time constraints, social expectations, and physical circumstances,” Tompar said. “These are barriers that greatly affect the opportunities we have to focus on and further our careers.”

Her message called on organizations to support and mentor emerging women leaders, break barriers, and champion inclusion as a foundation for modern business leadership. The forum also featured Operations Vice President Nina Kristine Abad as a panelist, contributing insights on supporting women leaders and fostering inclusive workplace practices.

TP also took part in the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines’ (CCIFP) forum, ‘Inclusive Intelligence: Women Advancing AI for Philippine Development.’

The session explored how female leadership is pivotal in ensuring that AI development remains equitable and inclusive in the Philippines, reinforcing the importance of women’s voices in shaping equitable, responsible and people-centered technological advancement.

“At TP in the Philippines, inclusion is not a one-time effort. It’s something we continuously build into how we support our people. When individuals feel seen and valued, they are empowered to grow and lead,” said Rachel Cacabelos, Vice President for Human Resources at TP.

As the future of work continues to evolve, TP in the Philippines continues to set a standard for workplace inclusivity and women empowerment in the IT-BPM industry. The organization continues to create pathways for women to thrive and succeed through equitable opportunities, supporting communities, and sustained leadership development.