SUN LIFE’S NEXT BIG GIG CARAVAN: LEARN HOW PURPOSE, PASSION, PLAY, AND PROFIT CAN MAKE YOU LIVE BRIGHTER AS A SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Sun Life Philippines, the No. 1 life insurance company in the country in terms of premium income1, net income2, and total assets3, is hosting a series of recruitment events for Financial Advisors called the Live Brighter Forum in select cities nationwide.
The series of Live Brighter Forums aims to amplify “The Next Big Gig”, a campaign that invites Millennials and Gen Zs to become a Sun Life Financial Advisor as their next income generating gig. It will kick off at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City on April 27, and continues at the Zuri Hotel in Iloilo City on May 11, SMX Convention Center at Pasay City on May 18, and Laus Group Events Centre in San Fernando, Pampanga on June 15.
Potential candidates joining the event can expect to learn more about how being a Sun Life Financial Advisor can give them unlimited income opportunities, the freedom of time, and help develop a sense of purpose as they help their clients achieve a more secure and brighter life. Real-life stories from Sun Life Financial Advisors will also be shared.
Attendees can also participate in activity booths that simulate the experiences of a Sun Life Financial Advisor. These include the “Next Big Quiz,” a quiz booth that challenges the attendees’ knowledge on life insurance; the “Next Big Destination,” an international-themed photo wall which represents the travel incentives of Sun Life advisors; and the “Next Big Project,” a booth that showcases the advisors’ corporate social responsibility activities where participants can also vote on the project advisors should support next. Exclusive Sun Life merchandise and other exciting prizes await those who will give the booths a try.
Those interested to join any of the Live Brighter Forums can get in touch with a Sun Life advisor or visit www.sunlife.co/gig to know more.
In a world where hustle culture prevails, sleep often takes a backseat. Recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing brain performance and overall health, Uratex and Our Home proudly present ‘Generation U: Life,’ an event dedicated to redefining comfort and highlighting the mutually beneficial relationship between sleep and life.
“At Uratex, we understand that quality sleep is a necessity for holistic well-being,” said Gerry Camacho, Sleep Business Unit Marketing Head of Uratex Philippines, Account Partner at Our Home. “Through ‘Generation U: Life,’ we aim to inspire individuals to embrace a lifestyle where sleep powers performance, enabling them to wake up feeling like champions ready to conquer their day.”
Making sure that everyone gets that much needed quality sleep, Uratex brings us its premium mattresses, each with unique feature highlights to fit your lifestyle and body needs.
Orthocare Balance Mattress: perfect for athletes and active individuals looking for excellent support and absolute comfort. And did you know that this mattress is trusted by the Philippine Orthopaedic Association and Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine? If you have back problems, the Orthocare Balance Mattress is made for you.
Perfect Serenity Mattress: Naturally, when we sleep, we prefer our surroundings to be clean, more so our beds. Treated with Sanitized which effectively protects against growth of bacteria, odor, mildew, and dust mites, keeping the mattress clean and hyopoallergenic! It is topped with Nuovoluxe Foam, a high-density foam designed for soft comfort; and its base is made of durable Purifoam that offers excellent support.
Premium Touch Viscoluxe Mattress: A five-star hotel experience at the comfort of your home! It is the best choice for every member of the family. It provides comfort with an exquisite note of softness and deluxe.
Senso Memory Frost Mattress: A literally ‘cool’ choice with Duo Frost Technology. It provides an instant and long-lasting cooling comfort while absorbing and regulating body heat, and is made of memory foam that contours to your body to alleviate body strains.
Trill Seave Mattress: This game-changing Trill Seave mattress is a sustainable bed made from upcycled plastic material gathered from the ocean floor.
Scheduled from March 22nd to March 24th, 2024, at SM Megamall Event Center, ‘Generation U: Life’ connects individuals across generations to underscore the significance of prioritizing sleep for optimal performance. ‘Generation U: Life’ will feature engaging activities and mini-games that challenge energy, while highlighting the importance of quality sleep.
Join us at ‘Generation U: Life’ from March 22nd to March 24th, 2024, at SM Megamall Event Center. Shop at ourhome.ph or visit any of OUR HOME stores nationwide for more options. You may also get in touch with a personal shopper via Call to Deliver at 0917-8315260.
Grab Philippines and partner motorcycle taxi company MOVE IT recognized their top female driver- and delivery-partners on Sunday, March 17, at the Babae Ako, Babiyahe Ako: Women’s Month Event. Recognized for their exemplary performance, high order and ride completion, and positive customer rating, the awardees stand as paragons of female excellence on the road.
Among the awardees is Veronica Arabe, a 66-year-old GrabTaxi driver-partner from Baguio City. “Bilang isang single parent, napakalaki po nang nabago sa aking buhay buhat noong ako ay nag-GrabTaxi. Isa po sa mga pinakamahalagang naidulot sa akin ng GrabTaxi ay ang pagpapatapos ko ng aking tatlong anak sa kolehiyo. Blessing po talaga ito sa aming mag-anak,” shares Arabe. Having started on the Grab platform in 2019, Arabe shares that Grab has made her more confident in steering the wheel daily, traversing roads safely and worry-free as she relies on features such as passenger identification, GrabMaps, and Share-Your-Ride.
Joining Arabe in the roster of women driver honorees is the youngest GrabCar driver-partner in Iloilo City – 22-year-old Arianne Hinara Claire Geguera. Having just finished her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology at the St. Therese MTC- Colleges, Geguera immediately joined GrabCar as she prepares for the next chapter in her career. “After graduation, sumali po ako agad sa GrabCar para maging driver-partner. Ito po ay para makapag-ipon ako pang-review at board exam. Nagiging stepping stone ko po ang Grab sa pag-fulfill po ng aking pangarap na maging parte ng Tri-Bureau.” Geguera shares she appreciates the flexibility of time being a GrabCar driver. Being her own boss, she gets to balance her own time as she allots some days for her board exam review.
The top two-wheel women drivers also took center stage during the event, and one of them is Sheryl Barrantes from MOVE IT. Barrantes reveals that even though she has been with MOVE IT for just under a year, she has already seen how she is able to achieve optimal earnings on the moto-taxi platform, which she uses to support her family. “Ang ganda po ng kita ko sa MOVE IT. Dito ko po kinukuha ang pang-dialysis ng aking tatay at ang pangangailangan naming sa araw-araw. Ang mga kagaya ko pong female MOVE IT riders na nandirito ngayon ang patunay na ang kalsada at ang pangraride-hailing ay di lamang para sa mga kalalakihan.”
Hailing from different backgrounds yet these brave, dedicated female drivers and riders share a loud and clear call for all current and aspiring women Ate Grab and Ate MOVE IT: “Kayang-kaya rin namin ‘yan!”. Besides the awardees, thousands other women drivers from all over the Philippines flocked to the Metro Tent Convention Center in Pasig as the leading superapp and the homegrown moto-taxi company reiterated their commitment to creating inclusive livelihood opportunities for every Filipino – shaping a more gender-neutral transportation sector.
Grab Philippines, together with MOVE IT, has recently rolled out a comprehensive Women Program under the social-upliftment campaign GrabAsenso. The key facets of the program include a series of trainings on topics like vehicle maintenance, first aid, and preventive servicing co-facilitated with agencies TESDA, MMDA and Philippine Commission on Women. The leading superapp has also officially activated its Women Preference Toggle – a new tech feature on the Grab driver app that is exclusive to women driver-partners. The Women Preference Toggle prioritizes the pairing of women drivers with female passengers, singinifcantly increasing the confidence of driver-partners in safely plying the roads of the metro.
As the Philippines observes National Women’s Month, the Globe Group celebrates the remarkable rise of female leaders within its ranks, emphasizing a commitment to gender equality and leadership diversity.
The Globe Group continues to be recognized as a hub of excellence for women, with female employees making up 44% of its workforce and holding 53% of executive positions within the organization.
This achievement is particularly significant given the 2022 Global Gender Gap report, which recognized the country as the leader in female representation in the boardroom in the Asia-Pacific region with a 41% rate.
The Globe Group’s initiatives go beyond numbers, concentrating on fostering and motivating women leaders to not only succeed in their respective areas but also set the stage for the future generation.
“The success of Globe lies in the diversity and dynamism of our leaders. Our female leaders, in particular, embody the values and vision that drive us forward,” said Ernest Cu, Globe Group President and CEO.
This Women’s Month, the Globe Group highlights the ascent of three female leaders who combine their professional pursuits with personal advocacies, driving forward innovations in technology. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for excellence exemplify the dynamic and inclusive culture at their respective companies.
Susana Beatriz “Beia” Latay, the newly appointed CEO of KonsultaMD, brings her vision of accessible telehealth services into reality, stressing the importance of informed healthcare decisions. With an illustrious career that includes leading investments in Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc., she aims to position KonsultaMD as a key player in the healthcare sector.
“Our goal is to serve as a dependable ally throughout our users’ healthcare experiences, particularly in moments when the complexity of navigating the healthcare system seems daunting,” said Latay.
On the other hand, Joan Peñaflorida began her journey at Yondu as a consultant and has been at its helm since 2014. Under her guidance, Yondu has flourished into a premier IT solutions provider, equipping businesses with cutting-edge technological solutions.
“At Yondu, we believe in harnessing the power of technology not just to drive business forward, but to create an environment where talent thrives and hard work is recognized. I am proud to lead a team that is as dedicated to innovation as it is to nurturing a supportive and engaging workplace,” she said.
In 2019, Peñaflorida was honored with the Asia CEO Awards’ Circle of Excellence for her impactful leadership and innovation. In the same year, she was also nominated as EY Entrepreneur of the Year, which is a testament to her forward-thinking approach and leadership.
Meanwhile, Irish Salandanan-Almeida, Globe’s Chief Privacy Officer, leads the company’s efforts in data privacy. Her leadership in promoting privacy awareness reflects a dedication to enabling individuals with the knowledge to protect themselves online, where threats and risks thrive.
“In a world where many of our daily transactions and interactions are online, safeguarding privacy becomes not just a responsibility but a mission. At Globe, we are committed to setting the gold standard for data protection and empowering our customers and employees with the knowledge and tools to secure their information. This commitment is deeply personal to me, especially as a mother striving to create a safer digital future for all our children,” she shared.
The Globe Group remains dedicated to uplifting Filipino lives through innovative solutions, with women leaders at the helm steering the company towards a brighter and more inclusive future.
For more information about Globe Group and its Women’s Month initiatives, please visit www.globe.com.ph.
Filipino law practitioners, just like their counterparts in many countries across the globe, are required by no less than the Supreme Court to undergo continuing legal education.
Now on its eighth compliance period, the mandatory continuing legal education (MCLE) program keeps every lawyer abreast of legal developments. It also elevates the national standards of the profession, helps improve justice administration, and enables the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to “discharge its public responsibility more effectively.”
Bar Matter No. 850 identifies the purpose of MCLE—to ensure that throughout their career, IBP members will remain updated about law and jurisprudence, will keep the ethics of their profession, and will help enhance the standards of the practice.
Only 25 accredited MCLE providers are allowed to facilitate learning sessions for the program to date. A designated MCLE Committee, which holds office in the IBP headquarters in Pasig City, monitors and oversees MCLE program administration by the accredited providers.
MCLE providers offer various courses to enable every learner to complete the required 36 units per compliance period (usually takes three years). All MCLE courses are designed to cover specified topics, including legal ethics, trial and pre-trial skills, alternative dispute resolution, updates of procedural law and jurisprudence, legal writing/ oral advocacy, international law, and other prescribed subjects, which could be about anything under the sun like technology and the law, taxation, cryptocurrency, and psychology and the law, among others.
Classroom setup
MCLE providers are basically required to conduct their classroom or physical learning sessions in suitable and comfortable venues. The site should be sufficient to hold the number of session attendees, should be accessible to public transportation, and should be conducive for learning.
Session schedules and duration should be strategically set. MCLE sessions are not allowed to coincide with observation of religious holidays. Schedule and venue, along with designated lecturers, topics, and related learning activities (even coffee and lunch breaks) must be strictly carried out as set or planned, otherwise, the MCLE Committee must be notified in advance of any change. Visual and other learning aids must be used to conduct the sessions more effectively.
Online MCLE
In 2020, ACCESS made history and through its efforts gave Philippine lawyers the option to take MCLE online. Incidentally, it coincided with the implementation of lockdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which lasted for over two years.
ACCESS MCLE, one of the accredited MCLE providers in the country, has been leading its industry when it comes to innovations and best practices for facilitation of online MCLE. Still aligned with the requirements of the MCLE Committee and with the approval from the Supreme Court, ACCESS MCLE introduced synchronous (online classroom and ‘flexisynch’) and asynchronous (on-demand) modes of learning.
As an alternative, and obviously more popular mode of MCLE delivery, accredited providers must adhere to two more major requirements—assurance of authenticity of identity of the learners and relevance of course content. Moreover, the online program must also adhere with other related concerns like data privacy, internet connection reliability, and content production, among others.
Interestingly, lawyers now have more options when it comes to MCLE compliance. Online MCLE remains popular, though many also opt for the traditional or face-to-face learning setup in the post-pandemic times. Whichever option is chosen, Filipino lawyers can expect continuous upgrade of knowledge and skills in the profession.
To learn more about ACCESS MCLE and its traditional and online programs, visit https://accessonline.ph/.
Blue Sapphire marked a new chapter in its wellness journey with the launch of its E-Commerce and Distributorship Platform, an initiative designed to make its science-driven wellness products more accessible while creating entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals seeking to enter the growing health and beauty market.
Held under the theme “Live Well. Grow Beyond — A Blue Sapphire Celebration of Women, Wellness & New Possibilities,” the event gathered around 70 guests composed of media partners, wellness advocates, and brand ambassadors in an intimate evening dedicated to health, empowerment, and community.
The launch highlighted two flagship products that represent Blue Sapphire’s commitment to wellness innovation.
The first is TigerEye Premium Barley Coffee with Spirulina and Ganoderma, a functional coffee blend designed to support sustained energy, focus, and overall vitality. Combining the benefits of barley with nutrient-rich spirulina and the well-known adaptogenic properties of ganoderma, the beverage offers a wellness-driven alternative to traditional coffee while promoting daily balance and productivity.
The second featured product is Emerald Premium Collagen with S-Acetyl Glutathione (EMOTHION), a wellness drink formulated to support skin radiance, gut health, and overall vitality. The blend integrates collagen with a stabilized form of glutathione known for its antioxidant properties, creating a daily supplement aimed at enhancing beauty and wellness from within.
Founder and CEO Kate Pagkalinawan shared that the brand’s products were carefully developed to combine science and lifestyle.
“Blue Sapphire was built on the belief that wellness should be intentional, science-backed, and accessible. Our products are designed to support everyday vitality—from energy and focus to skin and overall well-being—while giving people the opportunity to grow with the brand through our e-commerce and distributorship platform,” Pagkalinawan said.
The evening also featured a conversation with brand ambassadors including Patrizia Mariah Garcia, Jojo Urquico, and Susan Africa, who shared insights on maintaining wellness and resilience in their respective fields.
The event concluded with “A Toast for Her,” celebrating women, wellness, and the growing community behind Blue Sapphire’s mission.
Through its expanding product line and hybrid business model, Blue Sapphire aims to inspire individuals to live well, grow beyond, and embrace a lifestyle rooted in health and opportunity.
Managing your spending is now as easy as a few taps on your phone. Whether you’re shopping or paying bills online, BDO keeps pace with your busy lifestyle—giving you real-time control, security, and convenience right at your fingertips.
Designed to simplify your financial routine, the BDO Pay app makes managing your BDO credit card intuitive and hassle-free. Instantly check your outstanding balance, track transactions, view statements, and see payment due dates in your app in real time.
Your BDO credit card now smarter with BDO Pay. BDO Pay lets you manage your credit card effortlessly whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go.
Security you control
With BDO Pay, you can keep your credit card locked when you’re not using it and unlock it instantly when you need it, adding a layer of protection against unauthorized transactions. Activate your credit card, access e-statements, or file disputes directly in the payment app so you can skip the customer service calls.
Everyday services, simplified
You can request card re-delivery, apply for a Cash Advance PIN, or check the status of a credit card application, all by using BDO Pay. You can even request supplementary cards right from the app, making tasks quick and easy.
More ways to pay
Through BDO Pay’s Scan to Pay option, you can make purchases even without your physical credit card. Simply scan QR codes at merchant stores nationwide and complete your transactions securely, avoiding the risk of wrong transfers or fraudulent cash-ins. No need to pre-load funds and no more awkward delays at the counter due to insufficient funds.
Easy access to Rewards
Every qualified spend earns points when you pay with your BDO Credit Card linked to your BDO Pay. Convert your points to Cash Credit for more shopping or transfer points to your BDO Rewards or SMAC or SMAC prestige to enjoy member privileges.
Go further every time you spend. By blending financial control with everyday lifestyle ease, BDO Pay transforms the BDO credit card into a smarter, more flexible tool. Simply perfect for today’s always-on, mobile-first way of life.
Unlock exclusive dining deals and shopping rewards when you download BDO Pay and use it with your BDO Credit Card. Get it for free on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.
As Far Eastern University (FEU) marked its 98th founding anniversary this February, the celebration unfolded not as a pause from academic life but as an expression of it. From February 9 to 27, 2026, commemorative traditions honoring the university’s founder took place alongside academic fora, research congresses, industry dialogues, and student development initiatives. The anniversary’s rhythm reflected deliberate student formation that extended beyond lectures and into meaningful real-world engagement.
Across disciplines—from business and finance to education, tourism, sciences, communications, and the arts—students have engaged in conversations on workplace agility, social entrepreneurship, sustainability, innovation, and professional resilience. Faculty experts, alumni, corporate leaders, and practitioners have entered campus spaces not as guest features but as contributors to a broader educational design that connects theory with application.
For Dr. Joeven Castro, Vice President for Student Development and Continuing Education, the structure of this year’s anniversary activities reflected a long-standing institutional direction. “Our founding anniversary reminds us of why the university was established: to provide meaningful and accessible education,” he said. “Meaningful education means equipping students not only with knowledge, but with the confidence and adaptability to navigate professional environments or pursue their own ventures. Our anniversary activities reflected that continuing commitment.”
That direction is visible in initiatives such as The TamFLEX Series: FEUture-Ready Learning & Employability eXperience, a three-day workshop that equipped Tamaraws with essential competencies, confidence, and real-world skills for today’s evolving career landscape. Through career talks, interactive sessions, and hands-on activities, the program strengthened professional readiness and prepared students for internships, job applications, and workplace demands. Launched on January 27 with Philippine Transmarine Carriers (PTC), the series continued with Megaworld Corporation, which began its three-session run on February 19. More than a one-time engagement, TamFLEX is part of a sustained framework aligning academic formation with industry needs.
Several of these engagements extended through the final week of February, reinforcing that professional preparation at FEU is introduced early, strengthened over time, and contextualized across disciplines.
“We view career readiness as a developmental process, one that requires sustained engagement, structured industry partnerships, and intentional preparation to help students connect their education to real opportunities and long‑term career growth,” said Ar. Raquel Baquiran, Vice President for Career Development.
As FEU approaches its centennial in 2028, its 98th year reflects a university that treats celebration not as a conclusion, but as calibration. It honors its origins while steadily refining how it prepares the Tamaraws it sends into an increasingly complex world.
As climate-related disruptions increasingly shape campus life across the country, the FEU Public Policy Center (FEU PPC) underscores the strategic value of the College Experience Survey (CES) in helping institutions better understand and improve the lived realities of Filipino students.
Conducted annually, the CES is a nationwide, cross-sectional survey that assesses students’ academic, social, and personal development. More than a research instrument, it serves as a decision-making tool for higher education leaders, offering credible, student-level insights that inform policy review, program design, and institutional planning.
Responding to climate realities
The 2025 edition of CES places climate change, disaster preparedness, and student resilience at the forefront. With many Filipino students experiencing typhoons, flooding, and other environmental disruptions, institutions must understand how these challenges affect learning continuity, well-being, and campus engagement.
Through CES 2025, schools gain data-driven insights into students’ attitudes toward climate change and sustainability, their perceptions of curriculum relevance to real-world risks, their lived experiences with disasters and the resulting academic impact, and the effectiveness of existing institutional support systems. These findings enable institutions to move from reactive responses to proactive, evidence-based strategies, strengthening resilience not only in infrastructure, but in student formation and support.
Participating schools receive access to national and cross-institutional trends through the CES General Report and may qualify for a customized school-level report upon reaching at least a 20 percent response rate. Institutions are also provided with their own raw data, accompanied by technical guidance from FEU PPC to support interpretation and strategic use. In addition, participation includes invitations to forums, workshops, and data analysis trainings, as well as membership in the CES Network, fostering collaboration and the exchange of best practices among peer institutions.
By systematically listening to student voices, institutions can refine policies, strengthen student services, and align their academic programs with the realities of a climate-vulnerable nation.
Higher education institutions interested in participating in CES 2025 may confirm their participation this coming March 15, ahead of the February–April survey rollout.
This March 2026, Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries (JIOSWM) marks a historic milestone as its flagship mass media program and global crusade, ORAS NG HIMALA, celebrates its 33rd Living Like Jesus Anniversary under the inspiring theme, “Christ’s Power in Action.”
For over three decades, ORAS NG HIMALA has served as a beacon of faith, hope, and transformation — reaching lives across the Philippines and around the world through dynamic preaching, healing ministry, and compassion-driven outreach. What began as a broadcast of hope has grown into a global movement, now connecting more than 500 chapters nationwide and reaching audiences in over 70 countries through television, digital platforms, and live crusades.
Anniversary Celebration Schedule
The celebration will unfold across two major venues:
March 11 & 12, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday) | 1:00 PM JIOSWM Worship Center #1069 EDSA, Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City (Behind Shell Station–Muñoz, in front of DMCI Homes–Zinnia Towers)
March 15, 2026 (Sunday) | 4:00 PM (Gates open at 1:00 PM) Marikina Sports Center 24 Sumulong Highway, Marikina City
Thousands of attendees — including church leaders, pastors, bishops, distinguished guests, and believers from various fellowships and denominations — are expected to gather on-site. Millions more will participate via global live streaming, creating a unified celebration of faith across nations
Christ’s Power in Action
Centered on the theme “Christ’s Power in Action,” the anniversary will highlight powerful testimonies of:
Physical healing
Emotional restoration
Spiritual renewal
Supernatural breakthroughs
Life-changing transformation
Organizers describe the celebration as more than a commemorative event — it is a divine encounter where faith is renewed, hope is restored, and lives are transformed. Attendees can expect a Spirit-filled atmosphere affirming that Christ’s power remains active and relevant today.
Mission of Love – Love in Action
A key highlight of this milestone celebration is Mission of Love – Love in Action, the ministry’s compassion outreach initiative. Through this program, JIOSWM extends practical support to communities by providing:
Food and clothing assistance
Medical support
Financial aid
Educational assistance
Spiritual care
This outreach reflects the ministry’s commitment to putting faith into action — demonstrating that Christ’s power is expressed not only through miracles, but also through mercy, generosity, and service.
33 Years of Living Like Jesus
For 33 years, ORAS NG HIMALA has remained steadfast in proclaiming a message centered on living like Christ — loving boldly, serving selflessly, and believing without wavering. This anniversary celebrates a legacy of miracles and ministry while reaffirming its expanding global mission for the years ahead.
Free Admission. All are invited to come and experience faith in action.
For more information and live stream access: www.jioswm.org Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube: @JIOSWMofficial
The Palawan Group of Companies joined the vibrant festivities of the 30th Panagbenga Festival, celebrating alongside the people of Baguio City and Benguet Province under the spirited theme “Blooming Without End.” As an official sponsor, the Palawan Group fully embraced the festive atmosphere of the highlands, recognizing the region as a vital growth market for its financial services. By integrating its “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos” (affordable, reliable, and hassle-free) service into the colorful celebration, the company ensured that essential financial support remained within reach for families, students, and local entrepreneurs throughout the floral celebration.
A true highlight of the festival was the Palawan Group’s participation in the Grand Floral Float Parade. The Palawan float traversed the parade route adorned in a vibrant tapestry of blooms inspired by Cordilleran heritage, serving as a magnificent symbol of growth, opportunity, and financial empowerment. The celebration continued through interactive hubs at Melvin Jones in Burnham Park and along the iconic Session Road, as well as a lively participation in the Kapamilya Caravan. These festive activities allowed the Palawan Group to engage directly with the community, bringing its diverse range of products closer to the public in an atmosphere of joy and unity.
The Palawan Group’s deep connection to the region is anchored by a robust local network, comprising numerous Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala branches and a dedicated team of employees in Northern Luzon. This infrastructure enables the company to serve thousands of customers daily, supporting a diverse community that includes loyal sukis, market vendors, micro-entrepreneurs, and OFW families across Northern Luzon. Whether through traditional pawning and remittances or modern digital transactions via the PalawanPay app, the company remained a steady presence, ensuring the community’s financial needs were met even at the height of the Panagbenga festivities.
Karlo M. Castro, Palawan Group President and CEO, said, “Our participation in Panagbenga reflects how deeply we value the communities we serve. Festivals like this bring people together, strengthen local economies, and celebrate shared identity. We are proud to take part in moments that matter to Filipinos and to provide financial services that remain reliable and accessible long after the celebration ends.”
In celebration of the Panagbenga festivities, the Palawan Group rolled out exclusive, festival-themed offers across its branches and on PalawanPay. Customers enjoyed special discounts on sangla, rematado jewelry, Palawan gold, and ProtekTODO micro-insurance. Exciting giveaways also awaited booth visitors who registered for PalawanPay and availed of select services, adding more value and joy to the festival experience.
Bernard Kaibigan, Chief Marketing Officer of the Palawan Group, shared, “Panagbenga was established to boost tourism and aid the city’s recovery from the 1990 Luzon earthquake. Today, each flower here represents the perseverance, resilience, and creativity of Filipinos, particularly our Cordilleran brothers and sisters. The festival highlights how communities can rise, rebuild, and flourish together. Through Palawan Group’s involvement, we help ensure that Filipinos across different walks of life have access to reliable financial solutions that enable progress and opportunity throughout the year.”
Beyond the immediate excitement of the parade and public booths, the Palawan Group’s involvement in Panagbenga is part of a broader regional strategy that spans the country’s most celebrated cultural festivals, including Sinulog and Dinagyang. By aligning its corporate presence with these significant cultural milestones, the company demonstrates its role not just as a service provider, but as an active participant in the economic and social life of Filipino communities. This sustained engagement ensures that as cities like Baguio grow and their industries evolve, the Palawan Group remains at the forefront, offering a stable financial ecosystem that meets both the traditional and digital needs of the modern Filipino.
Visit any of the over 3,500 Palawan Pawnshop and Palawan Express Pera Padala branches nationwide or download the PalawanPay app to experience convenient, reliable, and hassle-free financial services anytime, anywhere.
Trust us on this: Your future self will thank you for getting life insurance, not later but now.
When people hear “life insurance,” they think it’s for parents or grandparents, not a priority for the younger generation. But here’s the plot twist: life insurance isn’t really about preparing for the end of your life. It’s about planning for a future that’s worth looking forward to—both for yourself and the people you care about—all while you’re still very much living it up. If you’re just starting your career, paying your own bills, and figuring out what independence really means, this is actually the perfect time to start considering life insurance, too.
Make your move
Right now, you might be paying rent, sharing expenses with friends, or helping support your parents. You’re building a life that now comes with financial responsibilities. If something unexpected happened to you, who would look after the people who rely on you? That’s where life insurance quietly steps in.
No better time to start your Plan B. Get insured while you’re moving up in the world, not just for your peace of mind but for more affordable premiums too.
Getting a plan when you’re young is a power move. Premiums are significantly more affordable because you’re younger, healthier, and seen to be lower risk. In other words, you can lock in a better rate now instead of paying more later.
Plan ahead, just
At this point in your life, you may want control over your career, your money, your time, and your choices. You’re probably already budgeting, using finance apps, investing (or at least thinking about it), and side-hustling to achieve your dreams and create a secure tomorrow for your family.
Life insurance fits this focused and intentional mindset. It’s like having a back-up—a Plan B—that ensures the lifestyle that you’re building for yourself and those you love will be protected no matter what lies ahead.
Did you know that some life insurance plans also offer benefits that you can enjoy while you’re still shaping your path, alongside protection for the people who matter to you? These plans are designed to support your long-term financial goals—that dream vacation, your own place, your first car—while providing financial protection for your dependents should things not go as planned.
A trusted partner for your Plan B
It’s time to ditch the idea that life insurance is only for “grown-ups.” Today, it’s less about age and more about being prepared and making smart money moves.
You’re already chasing dreams and carving out your place in the world with your Plan A. Now you need a Plan B to safeguard your best life.
To begin your Plan B, visit any BDO branch near you and chat with the BDO Life Financial Advisor. You can also visit BDO Life’s Get a Quote page to discover life insurance plans with premium quotations that align with your needs and budget.
Buy more, save more this TikTok Shop Brand Day Sale on March 7-9!
Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has just announced its newest smartphone, the HONOR X5c Plus — and it just keeps getting better! With the upcoming TikTok Shop Brand Day Sale, you can get best-selling HONOR devices for up to 35% off. What are you waiting for? Shop now: https://bit.ly/HONORBrandDay2026.
“HONOR’s TikTok Shop Brand Day Sale is more than just discounts — it’s about connecting with our community where they are most engaged. Together with TikTok, we’re delivering exclusive deals and exciting live-selling sessions where customers can enjoy up to 35% off,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
About HONOR X5c Plus
The HONOR X5c Plus redefines elegance with its symmetrical, minimalist design, featuring reinvented classic aesthetics with elegant, rounded corners and sharp, straight edges. Equipped with a 5,260mAh high-capacity battery, the device is engineered to support all-day heavy usage, ensuring seamless productivity and entertainment on the go. Storage is equally impressive, offering up to 8GB RAM (4GB + 4GB HONOR RAM Turbo) and 128GB of internal storage.
The HONOR X5c features a 50MP Main Camera, a 13MP Camera, and a 5MP Front Camera. Powered by cutting-edge AI enhancements, the camera system excels at capturing every moment with exceptional clarity. AI Object Recognition intelligently isolates subjects, minimizing background distractions for sharp, focused shots.
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After 18 years in the Philippine market, GlutaMAX has unveiled a renewed brand direction with the launch of its latest campaign, Body Putitivity — a message that reframes skin brightening as an act of personal agency rather than a response to imposed beauty standards .
The relaunch signals what company executives describe as a strategic evolution — one that reflects how beauty conversations have matured and how consumers now define empowerment on their own terms.
At its core, Body Putitivity affirms that choosing brighter or more even-looking skin can be a valid expression of self-care. It uplifts individuals who feel confident in their decision to enhance their skin, emphasizing that such preferences are personal — not comparative benchmarks.
A repositioning shaped by changing conversations
In her keynote address, Aiza Diuco-Sun, Executive Director for Strategy and Marketing of HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc., underscored that the relaunch is about clarity and conviction.
“This event marks the official relaunch of GlutaMAX. It is about clarifying who we are today and what we stand for moving forward,” she said. “For 18 years, GlutaMAX has been a trusted name in skin brightening in the Philippines. Today, we are strengthening our voice. We are refining our message.”
The recalibration arrives at a time when beauty brands are navigating more nuanced discussions about inclusivity, autonomy, and representation. Rather than retreating from these conversations, GlutaMAX is choosing to engage them directly — positioning brightening not as obligation, but as option.
An ambassador who embodies the message
A highlight of the relaunch was the introduction of Vanessa Tse Wing as the brand’s newest ambassador. A GlutaMAX user for a decade, Tse Wing brings with her a multifaceted background as a former national titleholder, scholar, and public servant.
In her testimonial, she framed confidence as something shaped by growth and intention.
“As a titleholder, as a student, and now as a public servant, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about meeting expectations,” she said. “It’s about owning your decisions.”
Her message mirrored the campaign’s ethos: self-care, when intentional, becomes an expression of self-respect. Notably, the brand moved away from traditional “before and after” storytelling, instead centering narratives of personal comfort and evolving self-assurance.
Beyond messaging: reinforcing the system
During the launch, GlutaMAX unveiled its campaign visuals and official jingle, reinforcing themes of inclusivity and self-determination
The brand also highlighted its GlutaMAX system, including its NanoWhite Technology formulation designed for whitening and protection as part of a daily self-care routine
Attendees described the campaign as deliberate in tone — particularly in how it addressed a subject that remains sensitive in public discourse. Conversations throughout the event reflected a shared understanding: skincare preferences vary, and respect for those differences is central to modern beauty dialogue.
A timely message for a shifting market
More than a relaunch, Body Putitivity enters the market at a moment when consumers are actively redefining what empowerment means. The campaign’s emphasis on coexistence — that embracing one’s natural tone and choosing to brighten can both stem from confidence — signals a strategic awareness of evolving expectations
In an environment where conversations around skin tone can quickly polarize, GlutaMAX’s insistence on personal choice over prescription feels both measured and forward-looking. By acknowledging diverse preferences without diminishing any, the brand widens its relevance while maintaining its core identity.
If early reception is any indication, Body Putitivity may well extend beyond a single campaign cycle. It presents a framework for how legacy beauty brands can remain culturally responsive without abandoning their category strength.
The message, at its heart, is straightforward: confidence is self-defined — and the freedom to choose is part of that confidence.
Eighty years after its founding, Wesleyan University-Philippines in Cabanatuan City in the province of Nueva Ecija is looking ahead—renewing its partnership with Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) under the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP) which is pivoting toward artificial intelligence, automation and intelligent systems.
“Technology is here to stay, and among its most significant advances is artificial intelligence,” said Dr. Irineo Alvaro Jr., president of Wesleyan University-Philippines. “Its value lies in strengthening human reasoning and capability—not replacing them—and this partnership with Smart allows us to explore that potential in meaningful ways.”
Now entering Phase 5, SWEEP trains its sights on artificial intelligence and emerging digital innovations. The new chapter introduces students to practical, industry-relevant skills such as prompt engineering, AI-assisted coding, data analysis, generative tools, and automated decision systems—technologies that are rapidly reshaping communication and customer experience.
“Smart supports the development of industry-ready engineers and technopreneurs who can contribute to the country’s digital transformation,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at Smart. “Through SWEEP, students gain exposure to real-world applications that help build a strong foundation for their future careers.”
But the program’s emphasis extends beyond technical exposure. Phase 5 is designed to help students develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and design perspectives needed to apply AI responsibly in real-world settings, ensuring that technology serves as an enabler rather than a substitute for human judgment.
SWEEP also gives students exposure to immersive technologies that are shaping the future of digital interaction. Extended reality (XR)—which includes virtual, augmented, and mixed reality—allows learners to engage with interactive environments that blur the boundaries between physical and digital spaces. The program also introduces concepts behind the metaverse, opening up connected digital ecosystems for collaboration, learning, and innovation.
Phase 5 further explores network disaggregation, a shift away from traditional, all-in-one networking systems toward modular architectures that allow organizations to combine open hardware, software, and network functions from multiple providers. This approach offers greater flexibility, scalability, and efficiency for modern enterprises.
As part of SWEEP, Wesleyan students benefit from mentorships led by Smart engineers, gaining insight into how advanced technologies are applied in areas such as systems monitoring and diagnostics, customer support workflows, preventive maintenance, and other day-to-day operational functions.
And to help prepare Wesleyan educators for the future of learning, Smart hosted an ‘AI for All’ bootcamp for the school’s basic education teachers. The workshop offers a hands-on experience with AI-powered applications that can create more dynamic lessons, provide instant feedback, analyze data for insights, and automate routine administrative tasks.
Wesleyan University-Philippines is among the earliest adopters of SWEEP, having formalized its participation in 2003. It is also the first partner institution to bag the SWEEP Award, Smart’s innovation grant recognizing excellence in engineering education.
Since its launch, SWEEP has trained more than 43,000 faculty members and students, facilitated internships for over 4,000 individuals within the PLDT Group, and supported the creation of six startups. More than 1,000 graduates from partner schools have since joined Smart, underscoring the program’s role in building industry-ready talent for the country’s digital future.
