Smart Backs Active Living as Filipinos Embrace Healthier Lifestyles

From early morning jogs to weekend fun runs, more Filipinos are embracing active lifestyles as health and wellness become a growing priority in everyday life. Running, in particular, has long been a go to physical activity in the country — accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community culture — making it a natural choice for individuals seeking both physical and mental well being.

 

This shift towards more intentional, health focused living reflects a broader movement among Filipinos to stay active, connected, and environmentally conscious; increasingly supported by organizations that recognize the role of technology, community, and sustainability in driving positive change.

 

“Our initiatives reflect our belief that progress must be purposeful and sustainable. As we continue to expand our 5G infrastructure and deliver world class connectivity, we are also committed to ensuring that our growth supports healthier communities and a greener planet,” said Marjorie Garrovillo, FVP and Co OIC at Smart Communications, Inc (Smart).

 

Smart continues to champion initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles while advancing environmental responsibility and inclusive digital progress across the country.

 

Through strategic partnerships and community driven programs, Smart supports platforms that encourage physical activity, meaningful engagement, and eco conscious action. Among these initiatives are fitness and wellness platforms and events such as the GCash Run, which brought together running, digital innovation, and environmental advocacy. By supporting initiatives that integrate active living with technology enabled engagement, Smart reinforces its long standing commitment to environmental stewardship and its support for initiatives that contribute to climate resilience and the transition towards a circular economy.

 

Enabling healthier lifestyles through sustainable connectivity

 

Smart’s support for wellness led initiatives is complemented by its continued investment in next generation connectivity. The company is rapidly expanding its 5G network nationwide to build a more efficient, reliable, and future ready digital ecosystem that supports evolving lifestyle needs.

 

As 5G adoption accelerates across the Philippines, Smart has reported an 88% year on year increase in full 5G traffic. This growth is driven by the rising number of 5G capable devices on the network, which increased 35% year on year to reach 11.2 million units, now accounting for 19% of total handsets.

The wider availability of affordable 5G devices, combined with ongoing network optimization, is enabling more Filipinos to access faster speeds, lower latency, and more responsive digital experiences — capabilities that increasingly support health and fitness platforms, real time communication, and everyday digital activities.

 

Award winning network experience

 

Smart’s continued focus on network excellence has earned global recognition. The company was recently recognized by Ookla® for providing the Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines.

 

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data, Smart achieved a Video Score of 78.60, allowing subscribers to enjoy seamless 1080p streaming and near instant playback. The Best Mobile Latency award underscores the network’s responsiveness, which is a critical advantage for real time applications such as streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and digital tools that support active and connected lifestyles.

 

As Filipinos continue to prioritize health, movement, and sustainability, Smart remains committed to enabling progress that goes beyond connectivity by empowering communities to live better today while helping build a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.

Prudence Foundation and UNICEF Philippines Partner to Protect Children from Climate-Related Health Risks

Taguig City, Philippines,  31 March 2026 – Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, and UNICEF Philippines have launched a new partnership to help protect children and communities in the Philippines from the growing health impacts of climate change.

Through the REACH programme, the collaboration aims to strengthen health and social protection systems so they can better respond to climate-related risks such as extreme heat and air pollution that disproportionately affect children.

REACH, which stands for Resilience, Environment, and Child Health – Strengthening Health and Social Protection Systems in the Philippines, will support efforts to develop climate-adaptive primary health care systems, strengthen preparedness and response to heat stress and air pollution, and enhance shock-responsive social protection mechanisms for vulnerable families.

The programme will be implemented by UNICEF Philippines in partnership with the Department of Health, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Climate Change Commission, and local government units in Metro Manila and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

With support from Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, and Pru Life UK, the programme highlights the importance of strengthening resilience for children and communities faced with increasing frequency and intensity of climate risks.

“As the community investment arm of Prudential plc, Prudence Foundation focuses on building climate and health resilience through long‑term, collaborative solutions. Our partnership with UNICEF Philippines under the REACH programme reflects this commitment, supporting stronger health and social protection systems to better protect children from climate‑related health risks,” said Nicole Ngeow, Executive Director of Prudence Foundation.

Sanjay Chakrabarty, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pru Life UK, said:

“Climate change is increasingly affecting the health and wellbeing of children and communities across the Philippines. Through the REACH programme, we are supporting efforts to strengthen systems that protect children from climate-related health risks such as extreme heat and air pollution. By working with UNICEF and government partners, we hope to help build stronger and more resilient health and social protection systems that can better safeguard children today, and in the future,” added Chakrabarty.

Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF Representative to the Philippines, highlighted the partnership’s significance in addressing the stakes for children:

 “For children whose bodies are still growing, climate change can quickly become a health emergency. Protecting them requires climate‑adaptive, shock‑responsive systems, and strong partnerships. Through REACH, our work with the Prudence Foundation shows how government, civil society, young people, and the private sector can deliver solutions where they matter most. UNICEF mobilises private sector partners as advocates for child rights and responsible business, helping build a more resilient future for every child in the Philippines.”

Children are particularly vulnerable to environmental and climate-related health risks due to their unique needs and reliance on healthcare systems, clean air, and safe environments. Strengthening these systems will help ensure that communities are better prepared to respond to climate-related shocks and protect children’s health and wellbeing.

Erceflora Strengthens Its Commitment to Gut Health Education This Batang Matatag Day 2026

Persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools continue to put Filipino children at risk of preventable infections. In the Philippines, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of illness and hospitalization nationwide, with studies linking around 80% of diarrhea-related deaths to poor access to safe water and sanitation. This recent health concern shows how unsafe water and poor hygiene continue to expose children to avoidable infections. 

Enter Batang Matatag, Erceflora’s flagship advocacy, tackling child mortality from diarrhea by flipping the script—from treatment to prevention. The initiative champions gut health awareness, hygiene education, and improved sanitation, reaching over 200,000 children across different regions in the Philippines since its launch in 2022.

“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience. Real change begins with the small things families do every day, it starts at home, in schools, and in everyday choices,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead. 

The Batang Matatag initiative by Erceflora has built WASH facilities and donated refrigerated drinking fountains to over 104 schools across BARMM, Luzon, and Rizal, helping drive measurable health gains and improving everyday environments where children learn and grow.  20% decline in diarrhea cases in partner Rizal schools and a 50% reduction in BARMM schools have been observed during School Year 2024–2025. 

Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026 as the program expands across Rizal and Metro Manila, strengthening its mission to build more resilient children through better gut health and hygiene practices.

“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization. We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone,” Opella Healthcare Philippines Country Head, Emma Valette emphasized.

Batang Matatag Day 2026: Growing the Mission, Strengthening More Young Lives

Sun Life and Borough Group of Clinics Collaborate to Advance Accessible, Holistic Healthcare for Filipinos

MANILA, PH – March 2026 – Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. recently announced its tie-up with Borough Group of Clinics, marking the start of a shared commitment to provide more accessible, preventive, and holistic healthcare solutions to Filipinos. The collaboration was formalized during a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at the Sun Life Centre.

 

The collaboration aims to create a seamless experience that integrates preventive healthcare, wellness education, and financial protection. These initiatives will make it easier for individuals and families to prioritize both their physical health and long-term security. The tie-up will focus on expanding access to quality healthcare services, increasing awareness on preventive health, and introducing wellness programs for Sun Life Clients, advisors, and employees.

 

“Our collaboration with Borough Group of Clinics reflects our belief that good health is the foundation of a brighter future,” said JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. “By joining forces, we can offer Filipinos a more compassionate and connected healthcare experience. Together, we are opening doors to meaningful, long-term well-being.”

 

Dr. Ches Heredia, CEO and Head Ophthalmologist of Borough Lasik Center, added, “At Borough Group of Clinics, our mission has always been to deliver the highest standard of healthcare to every Filipino. With our nationwide presence across the same key cities as Sun Life Philippines, Borough Lasik Center and Borough Medical Clinics are well-positioned to bring accessible, life-changing care closer to their clients and employees.”

 

The MOA signing event was attended by JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc.; Atty. Paolo Macapagal, General Counsel of Sun Life Philippines; Abigail Viaje, Chief Actuary of Sun Life Philippines; Dr. Ches Heredia, CEO and Head of Borough Lasik Center; Karlo Sanchez, General Manager of Borough Group of Clinics; Anne Sino Cruz, Marketing Head of Borough Group of Clinics

 

Through this strategic tie-up, Sun Life and Borough Group of Clinics reaffirm their shared commitment to empowering Filipinos to work towards improving their overall health and well-being. By bringing together preventive healthcare, wellness education, and financial protection, the collaboration supports Sun Life’s purpose of helping Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives, while contributing to a more accessible and holistic healthcare landscape in the Philippines.

 

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.

Generika Drugstore, Valenzuela City launch country’s first citywide PhilHealth GAMOT Partnership

Generika Drugstore and the City Government of Valenzuela launched the very first partnership between a nationwide drugstore chain and a local government unit (LGU) providing an entire city access to essential medicines for free under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)’s Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) Program.

On Friday, about 600 Valenzuela City residents underwent medical consultation from PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP)-accredited doctors from the City Health Department and received prescribed medicines onsite for free thru PhilHealth’s GAMOT from Generika Drugstore.

“This is ginhawa to the fullest. Working with the City Government of Valenzuela allows us to showcase our Ginhawang Generika promise while serving our fellow Filipinos,” said Adrian Gino Guinto, President and Chief Executive Officer of Generika Drugstore.

Under this partnership, YAKAP-registered residents of Valenzuela City who have undergone medical consultation in YAKAP-accredited clinics and have prescriptions with unique security codes (UPSC) can claim up to P20,000 worth of essential medicines in any of the ten (10) Generika Drugstore branches in Valenzuela City that have been accredited by PhilHealth as GAMOT Providers:

• Dalandanan

• Parada Capt. Cruz

• Bagbaguin Mariano

• Gen. T. De Leon

• Malinta Santiago

• Maysan Tongco

• Paso de Blas

• Pio St. Marulas

• Poblacion 1 MH Del Pilar (Polo)

• Veinte Reales

Because of up to 85% savings that consumers can get for buying Actimed Quality Generics, YAKAP beneficiaries can buy significantly more medicines—enough to complete their doctors’ prescriptions.

“We are honored to be part of this pioneering partnership. We thank Generika Drugstore and PhilHealth for helping us make Valenzuela City a truly progressive city where no Valenzuelano family gets left behind,” said City Mayor Wes Gatchalian.

For his part, PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in ensuring the success of the government’s flagship health programs. “With active partners like Generika Drugstore and Valenzuela City, Filipinos can rest assured that PhilHealth can help, wherever and whenever they need it,” said Dr. Mercado.

In turn, Guinto thanked partners and stakeholders whose openness and collaboration were key in building the partnership. “With the AC Health group’s support, we invite like-minded local chief executives to follow suit and together, let’s push ginhawa within closer reach of Filipino families,” he added.

To date, 171 Generika Drugstore branches nationwide have been accredited as GAMOT providers. For the full list, click here. 

Pintig ng Pinas: The Biggest Nationwide Sagip CPR Rollout, Empowering Every Filipino Heartbeat

A heartbeat is something we often take for granted—until it stops. 

 

In the Philippines, heart disease remains the leading cause of death. Studies show that most cardiac arrests occur at home and in the presence of a family member. These are moments when loved ones are closest—yet often feel powerless simply because they have never been trained to respond.

 

In many cases of sudden cardiac arrest, survival does not depend on hospitals or doctors alone. It depends on the person standing nearest—the bystander who knows what to do and understands that even two hands can mean the difference between life and death. 

 

This urgency is at the heart of Pintig ng Pinas, Bell-Kenz Pharma’s biggest activation to date of its Sagip CPR (Hands-Only CPR) advocacy. In celebration of February as Heart Month, Sagip CPR is staging a nationwide rollout of back-to-back Hands-Only CPR training sessions across Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

 

Since its inception in August 2025, Sagip CPR has trained thousands of students, teachers, parents, uniformed personnel, local government units, and community volunteers—ordinary Filipinos equipped with a simple yet lifesaving skill. Under Pintig ng Pinas, Bell-Kenz Pharma will conduct around 15 Hands-Only CPR training sessions within February alone—making it the most extensive rollout since the program began.

As the largest Sagip CPR initiative to date, Pintig ng Pinas brings together partners from the public and private sectors, local government units, health advocates, civic and medical associations, and volunteers who share a common goal of strengthening community response during cardiac emergencies. The program also supports broader national efforts to improve emergency preparedness and public health awareness.

 

By scaling up Hands-Only CPR education across the country—from Metro Manila and Central Luzon to Nabua (Camarines Sur), Polangui (Albay), Panay Island including Iloilo City, Roxas City (Capiz), Aklan and Antique, as well as General Santos City and North Cotabato in Mindanao—Bell-Kenz Pharma is not just teaching a technique, but helping build confidence, readiness, and shared responsibility within communities.

 

Hands-Only CPR focuses on continuous chest compressions that help maintain blood circulation during cardiac arrest until professional medical help arrives. The approach is particularly recommended for cardiac emergencies and has gained wider adoption in recent years, as it does not require mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

 

“This initiative reflects a deeper understanding of healthcare and the collaboration needed to generate meaningful impact. Medicines save lives—but so do prevention, education, and rapid response, “ said Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and PR Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma. 

 

Being a Kaagapay sa Kalusugan, Bell-Kenz Pharma’s commitment to quality healthcare goes beyond the pharmacy shelf. Through Sagip CPR, it extends into classrooms, barangay halls, workplaces, and homes—where real emergencies happen.”

Pintig ng Pinas underscores that nation-building can begin with something as fundamental as teaching people how to respond when a heartbeat falters—keeping someone alive until help arrives.

 

In a time when healthcare challenges can feel overwhelming, Sagip CPR offers a practical reminder: saving lives does not always require complex technology or specialized equipment. Sometimes, it begins with knowledge, preparedness, and the willingness to act.

 

“Our vision is clear,” said Dr. James Cayetano, President of the Bell-Kenz Foundation. “We want Filipino households to have at least one person who knows how to respond during the critical first minutes of cardiac arrest. By equipping ordinary Filipinos with CPR skills, we are strengthening the country’s first line of response during cardiac emergencies. Sagip CPR is more than a campaign; it is a call to action across the country.”

 

For more information about Pintig ng Pinas and the Sagip CPR advocacy, visit bell-kenz.net

Fly In, Feast On: Erceflora Preps Sinulog Goers for What’s Ahead—Right at the Airport

Pinoys like to party, and there’s nothing like starting the year with one of the country’s most anticipated festivals: Sinulog. From early-morning flights to jam-packed itineraries, this Cebuano celebration draws thousands of revelers from all over the Philippines for a whirlwind of street dancing, food trips, reunions, and nonstop movement—exciting, yes, but also physically demanding.

Between travel stress, long days on your feet, and indulging in Cebu’s iconic lechon and street food, tummy troubles can easily crash the party. That’s why Erceflora steps in as the newest must-have in this year’s Cebu trip kit—helping festival-goers stay ready for all the fun, without worrying about gut problems getting in the way of the celebration.

Welcoming Festival goers the Erceflora Way

Sinulog starts the moment you land—and Erceflora is there to welcome you. As travelers arrive in Cebu, dispenser machines right at the airport invite festival-goers to grab free Erceflora samples and join in a fun activity that sets the tone for a worry-free celebration from day one.

Strike the brand’s signature “Oops” pose—just like Anne Curtis—and score Erceflora goodies to keep you Sinulog-ready. From playful photo moments to take-home samples and merch, it’s all about gearing you up to enjoy every bite, beat, and late night without worrying about gut troubles.

Simple, fun, and practical—because staying gut-ready should be as easy as planning your Sinulog itinerary.

And the experience doesn’t stop there. On January 17, drop by the Erceflora booth at SM Seaside Cebu to learn exactly when and how to use Erceflora—before food crawls, after late nights, or in between packed Sinulog schedules. With quick tips and free samples, gut care becomes an easy, essential part of your festival game plan.

Sinulog Realities: Food, Festivities, and Overindulgence

Sinulog isn’t exactly a “light meals and early nights” kind of festival. It’s lechon at every turn, irresistible street food, and celebrations that stretch well past midnight. Delicious? Absolutely. Gentle on the stomach? Not always. Add long walks, packed schedules, and travel fatigue, and it’s no surprise tummy troubles tend to sneak in.

That’s where Erceflora comes in. It helps you against overindulgence and unexpected gut 

emergencies. By helping prevent and manage stomach upsets, Erceflora keeps festival goers in the moment—free to dance, eat, and hop from one food crawl to the next without interruptions. It’s why Erceflora has become a trusted probiotic staple for travel, handaan, and every moment of vulnerability in between.

Turning Fiesta Moments into Worry-Free Celebrations

Fiestas are meant to be enjoyed, not paused for stomach trouble. With Erceflora helping prevent and manage gut upsets, festival-goers can stay focused on the fun—whether that means street dancing, hopping from one food crawl to the next, or powering through a full day of celebrations.

Erceflora Probiotics with billions of 4-strain Intelli-spores is for all ages above 6 months old. It aims to aid in the enhancement of natural resistance to intestinal infections, the enhancement of intestinal ecology, the improvement of digestion, and the improvement of lactose malabsorption.

Erceflora Gut Defense helps improve digestion with 2 billion Intelli-spores—especially during routine changes or travel. Erceflora Gut Restore delivers 4 billion Intelli-spores— one mini bottle per day for 7 days from the onset of gut infection symptoms or as directed by a physician.

Sinulog isn’t just about planning your outfit or your food stops anymore—it’s about being festival-ready inside and out. With Erceflora in the mix, gut care becomes part of the prep, redefining what it means to enjoy the celebration.

More than just a freebie, Erceflora proves itself as a thoughtful, practical companion for every Cebu trip. Because the best Sinulog memories are made when you celebrate to the fullest—minus the gut setbacks.

MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG ERCEFLORA GUT DEFENSE AT ERCEFLORA GUT RESTORE AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANUMANG URI NG SAKIT.  

MAT-PH-2600030 / Ver 1.0 / DA 01-2026 / DM 01-2026

Opella Healthcare Philippines Inc.

Nature Meets Wellness: PH to Showcase Healthy Products at Indusfood 2026

The Philippines will aim to deliver a strong performance in Indusfood 2026, presenting four capable enterprises with healthy, premium-quality products to the Indian market.

With support from the Department of Trade and Industry-Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), the Philippine exhibitors for this edition will showcase dried vegetable leaves, tropical snacks, crackers, and processed fruits. These offerings are produced through responsible farming and processing systems, with global certifications affirming their manufacturers’ compliance with food safety and quality standards. The producers draw from the country’s natural strengths—fertile soil, favorable climate, and established agricultural practices—to supply the global market with distinctly Filipino food products.

This participation is part of DTI-CITEM's efforts to create pathways for Philippine products in India, where demand for healthy and natural food continues to rise. 

This year’s exhibitors will be presented at the India Exposition Mart’s International Hall (Hall 1) under the FOODPhilippines banner, a CITEM-led industry branding initiative that promotes the Philippines as a dependable sourcing destination for food and ingredients. 

Innovative enterprises ready for global market

The lineup of Filipino exhibitors includes Dry Tech Manufacturing Corp., which will highlight ready-to-cook dried taro, moringa, lemongrass, and pandan leaves under its Sheentaro brand. The company uses eco-friendly drying technologies and responsible agricultural practices to produce natural, hygienic, pesticide-free ingredients suited to India’s plant-based market.

Also in the group is Monde M.Y. San Corporation, an accomplished Filipino biscuit and cracker manufacturer known for brands such as Skyflakes, Fita, and M.Y. San Grahams. The company uses advanced baking technology to maintain the quality of its goods and to ensure their production processes are sustainable. With over 90 years of experience, Monde M.Y. San will present its Skyflakes Snack Pack, Garlic Snack Pack, and Onion and Chives Snack Pack.

One Vizcaya Export Corporation will highlight sustainably sourced ube powder, calamansi, saba bananas, and fruit bars. Established in 2020, the company aims to supply high-value products that meet India’s growing interest in healthy fruit-based goods.

See’s International Food Manufacturing Corp., maker of Gold Chips banana chips, will feature snacks produced from freshly harvested Philippine bananas. The company highlights its products for India’s growing demand for premium tropical snacks.

Launched in 2017, Indusfood is one of Asia’s prominent food and beverage trade shows, providing a platform for exporters to connect with global buyers and widen their reach. Indusfood 2026 will run from January 8 to 10, 2026 at the India Exposition Mart in Greater Noida.

In addition to supporting enterprises in overseas trade fairs, DTI-CITEM organizes the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, the Philippines’ largest business-to-business and export-oriented trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients. As the longest-running food sourcing event in the Philippines, IFEX Philippines spotlights premium products from across the regions and positions the country as a dependable supplier in the global market. Co-located within IFEX Philippines is the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Exhibition and Conference, a platform that showcases innovations, facilitates knowledge exchange, and fosters collaborative solutions that support the country’s development of a circular economy. 

The 19th edition of IFEX Philippines will run from May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

Register as an IFEXConnect exhibitor: https://citem.ph/p/6d5e50

Register as an IFEXConnect trade buyer: https://citem.ph/p/b426fb

 

Catch FOODPhilippines in the following trade fairs: 

 

· Anuga

· China-ASEAN Expo under PARTNERPhilippines

· China International Import Expo

· FOODEX JAPAN

· Gulfood

· Private Label Middle East

· SEOUL FOOD

· SIAL Paris

 

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM advances the country’s image as a premier sourcing destination for quality export products and services.  

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export promotion in partnership with other government and private entities

1Life, Inc. Records 1 Million Patients as its Tech-Enabled Healthcare Network Drives Early Detection and Preventive Care

12 December 2025, Philippines – 1Life, Inc., a Filipino healthcare tech company committed to social impact, has served one million patients through two years of field hospital services and nationwide deployment of its tech-enabled model for primary care. The milestone underscores 1Life’s mission to improve health outcomes and protect Filipinos from preventable illnesses through early detection and timely intervention.

By bringing healthcare directly to local communities, the company delivered fast, connected healthcare across more than 1,261 municipalities and 80 provinces, demonstrating that advanced diagnostics and AI-supported care can operate reliably at scale, even in remote and low-resource settings.

1Life’s integrated healthcare system brings diagnostics, consultations, and medicines together in a single community visit. By combining portable devices, cloud-based patient records, and AI-assisted workflows, the company has shortened what is usually a four-day primary care journey to about one hour. This shift has been especially impactful in rural and geographically isolated areas where access to diagnostic services has traditionally been limited.

Much of the one-million-patient count comes from community medical runs where residents receive essential diagnostics such as CBC, X-ray, ultrasound, ECG, urinalysis, and blood chemistry, followed by physician consultations and appropriate medicines. Patients also come from 1Life Primary Care Facilities, partner clinics using the 1Life Digital Community Healthcare System, and school and workplace health programs supported by local government units and national partners. In 2024 alone, the company served more than half a million Filipinos, with daily deployments of multiple medical teams that used AI tools to manage higher patient volumes without compromising quality.

At the core of these operations is the 1Life Digital Community Healthcare System, which links field missions, clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, and laboratories through a unified digital platform. This ecosystem is strengthened by DocMate AI, trained on hundreds of thousands of Filipino patient records, and the newly launched 1Life Health App, which gives users personal access to medical records, medicine reminders, and accurate health education. These tools generate real-time insights for partners and enable communities to shift from reactive, hospital-centric care to proactive early detection, a central goal of the country’s healthcare reforms.

The milestone also aligns with the Philippines’ goal of strengthening universal health coverage. As an accredited partner of DOH, PhilHealth, LGUs, and the DepEd YAKAP program, 1Life supports efforts to decongest hospitals by bringing early detection and primary care to the community level. Local leaders in remote and conflict-affected areas have reported greater participation in health programs and improved trust among residents who experienced, for the first time, fast and respectful care.

Niño Namoco, President of 1Life, Inc., highlighted the company’s mission to provide access to quality healthcare, leveraging innovative technology to prevent complications and streamline health processes for Filipinos, reflecting 1Life’s broader social impact:

“Reaching one million patients is a reminder that accessible healthcare can change lives when delivered with consistency, compassion, and the right technology. Every person we serve represents a family and a story, and we carry that responsibility with humility.” 

He added, “Our goal remains simple. 1Life is dedicated to making quality primary healthcare accessible to all, particularly the underserved communities. Central to our program is the early detection and prevention of diseases, which has enabled us to reach a million patients and further the pursuit of universal health equity. We are grateful to our partners and our team on the ground for making this possible. This milestone is only the beginning.”

1Life’s track record strengthens its position in the Philippine healthtech sector. The success of DocMate AI, the 1Life Health App, and the nationwide field deployments demonstrates that technology-supported primary care can operate reliably in diverse conditions across the country. This establishes 1Life as a trusted partner for groups seeking measurable and scalable healthcare solutions.

To learn more about 1Life, Inc., visit 1life.ph and facebook.com/1life.ph, or download the 1Life Health App on Google Play or the App Store.

Take Steps Towards a Healthier Lifestyle with the Venu 4 from Garmin

MANILA, Philippines – Garmin has announced the Venu® 4, its latest smartwatch in the award-winning Venu lineup with innovative new health, fitness and accessibility features. To help users understand their body better and make healthier decisions, Venu 4 lets them track their health trends and log lifestyle changes to see how their choices affect their overall well-being. It also features a stylish metal design, built-in speaker and mic and a bright LED flashlight that provides greater awareness in dark environments. And with up to 12 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, users don’t have to charge their watch every night, making it easier to monitor health metrics 24/7 and receive a more holistic view of their sleep, heart rate variability (HRV), Body Battery™ energy monitoring, and more.

“We designed Venu 4 to be a personal on-wrist fitness and wellness coach. This premium smartwatch helps users learn even more about their body, provides data-driven insights into how their choices are affecting their health and holds them accountable so they can reach their goals with greater ease.” — Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

What’s new in:

Health

Health status: See whether health metrics like heart rate, HRV, respiration, skin temperature1 and Pulse Ox2 while sleeping are trending away from their usual range. These changes could indicate added stress to the body and could be related to physical activity, potential illness and more. This feature is currently available in beta3 on the watch and in Garmin Connect™.

Lifestyle logging: Log custom or preset behaviors – like caffeine and alcohol consumption – and view reports on how those lifestyle choices impact sleep, stress and HRV in the Garmin Connect app.

Advanced sleep metrics: Sleep alignment provides even more personalized sleep guidance by keeping track of how aligned the body is to its inner sleep cycle using circadian rhythm. Sleep consistency provides a look at the average bedtime over the past seven days.

Fitness

The new Garmin Fitness Coach provides personalized workouts for over 25 different fitness activities – from walking and indoor cycling to rowing, HIIT and more. These heart rate and duration-based workouts will adjust daily based on activity history, sleep and recovery. Users can set up a Garmin Fitness Coach plan to receive tailored workouts and track their progress in the Garmin Connect app. If users don’t set up a plan, they will still get daily suggested workouts for different fitness activities. For those doing several activities in one workout, the mixed session activity profile tracks multiple activities in one session rather than saving separate activities. 

Accessibility

Spoken watch face: Hear time of day, health data and more spoken directly from the watch and receive alerts at the top of every hour. 

Color filter: Users with various forms of color blindness can choose different color display options – including gray scale, red/green, green/red or blue/yellow.

Stylish design, premium features

Featuring a sophisticated metal design, Venu 4 is available in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, and comes in fun colorways – like lunar gold and light sand or silver and citron – with leather or silicone bands that can easily be swapped out. Both sizes feature a built-in LED flashlight for greater visibility in the dark, plus a speaker and microphone to make and take calls from the watch when it’s paired with a compatible iPhone® or Android™ smartphone and use the phone’s voice assistant to respond to text messages. Certain voice commands, like “start a running activity” and “set timer for 5 minutes” can also be activated right from the watch—no phone connected required.

To support every goal, Venu 4 includes Garmin’s suite of health, fitness and connected features, including HRV status, Body Battery, women’s health tracking (including skin temperature for past ovulation estimates and improved period predictions)4, the Garmin ECG App5, workout benefit and recovery time, training readiness, wrist-based running dynamics, smart notifications, onboard music storage, safety and tracking features and more. 

Available to purchase starting October 17, 2025, Venu 4 has a suggested retail price of PHP 33,290 and may be purchased in all Garmin Brand Stores and online through the official Garmin Stores online in Kinetic, Shopee, and Lazada. 

For more information about Venu 4, visit the official website. 

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized the health and wellness industry. Committed to developing smartwatches and health measurement tools that help people of all activity levels lead healthier lives, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.

What Does Social Responsibility Look Like in the Reproductive Health Space?

MANILA, October 23, 2025 — Social responsibility often brings to mind environmental causes, education drives, or community clean-ups. These are classic ways organizations give back to their communities, and they’ve long been seen as markers of doing something good. While these initiatives make a visible impact, one crucial area rarely gets the spotlight — reproductive health.

Despite being an important aspect of a community’s well-being, it often takes the backseat, ending up being a taboo topic for campaigns or confined to specific advocacy groups, largely due to cultural sensitivities.

Social Responsibility and Reproductive Health
When it comes to social responsibility, it’s not just about doing something good, but also addressing what communities actually need — and reproductive health fits right in. In the Philippines, the rising cases of HIV infections and adolescent pregnancy among Filipino youth are just a few pressing concerns that need strong, collaborative action from both the public and private sectors.   

Many aspects of social, economic, and cultural concerns are tied with reproductive health and directly affect community life. When individuals have access to family planning options and quality healthcare, they’re more empowered to pursue education, sustain livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to society. This ripple effect indicates that supporting reproductive health initiatives not only ensures wellness but also social progress.

This is where social enterprises truly stand out. Unlike most corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that focus on short-term outreach, social enterprises are built for sustained impact. Long-term commitment enables them to make a more meaningful difference in advancing the reproductive health space and empowering communities.

Why Social Enterprises Matter
Social enterprises are businesses made for the purpose of achieving a core positive social objective. They do so by selling goods and services to generate revenue, then reinvest their earnings into programs that advance their cause. This model separates them from traditional businesses focused solely on profit and charities dependent on external funding.

In the reproductive health space, this model is especially beneficial as it allows social enterprises to deliver scalable solutions to reach more people, from affordable reproductive health products to free consultations and outreach services.

TRUST Leading the Charge in Social Responsibility
For many Filipinos, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) still carries misconceptions that limit open discussion. This calls for campaigns that address the problem head-on, normalizing conversations about sexual wellness and challenging misconceptions. 

One example is TRUST’s ongoing “Ang Normal Mo, Normal ‘Yan!” campaign launched on September 25, 2025. The initiative reminds the public that taking care of one’s sexual and reproductive health is not shameful, but a normal, responsible, and important commitment.

TRUST is the commercial master brand of DKT Health, Inc., a social enterprise that reinvests proceeds from its sales into programs of DKT Philippines Foundation that deliver free reproductive health services nationwide, especially in far-flung areas. Through this initiative, each purchase translates to tangible and measurable support for communities.

The brand measures “Couple-Years of Protection” (CYP) to gauge its overall impact beyond generating revenue. CYPs are an important metric used by donors, demographers, and public health practitioners to evaluate the success of contraceptive social marketing programs. In 2024 alone, TRUST successfully protected a total of 3.6 million couples or 7.2 million individuals in the Philippines through its commercial and free services, highlighting the brand’s reliability, experience, and long-standing dedication for over three decades.

“We as a social enterprise put impact over profit,” shared Denise R. van Dijk, President and CEO of DKT Health, Inc. ”These profits are just a means of increasing our impact. We take what we generate and put it back into our foundation so it can focus on last-mile distributions.

A Collective Mission for Change
In a time when consumers are more conscious of the values behind the brands they support, social enterprises like TRUST show how purpose-driven business can drive meaningful change. By investing in social progress, these entities help build stronger, more empowered communities that value health, choice, and well-being.