JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, met with Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado to discuss their shared priorities aimed at strengthening the country’s insurance landscape.
The discussion highlighted the critical need to elevate financial literacy across all sectors of the Philippine society, and recognized education as a key driver of long-term financial resilience. Both leaders emphasized the role of digital platforms in delivering relevant, accessible, and scalable financial education to Filipinos nationwide.
A key part of the conversation centered on broadening the reach of life insurance, particularly for Overseas Filipino Workers and underserved communities through affordable insurance options. By expanding coverage and awareness, both sides underscored the opportunity to bring essential financial protection products to more households.
Moreno and Commissioner Regalado also exchanged insights on the ongoing industry transition to International Financial Reporting Standard 17 (IFRS 17). They noted the standard’s role in ensuring greater transparency, consistency, and Client trust in the insurance industry.
The meeting additionally tackled the importance of updating the Insurance Code of the Philippines to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with emerging risks and digital innovation.
“We share a firm belief that strengthening the insurance sector begins with empowering Filipinos through accessible financial education, relevant products, and a regulatory environment that supports innovation,” said Moreno. “We look forward to deeper collaboration with Commissioner Regalado and the Insurance Commission as we work towards a more resilient insurance ecosystem in the Philippines.”
The dialogue between Moreno and Commissioner Regalado reflects a unified vision for a more inclusive and modernized insurance industry that equips Filipinos with the tools and knowledge to secure their financial future.
To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
The 6th ProPak Philippines officially opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila with the theme “Consumer-Conscious Innovation: Driving Global Competitiveness and Sustainability,” marking a milestone year for the Philippines’ premier international processing and packaging trade event. The opening ceremony drew unprecedented government support and industry participation, with more than 250 companies exhibiting from local and international markets and an expected 10,000 visitors over the three-day event.
Strong Government Leadership Drives Industry Transformation
The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished government officials, including Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Assistant Secretary Daniel Atayde for Logistics from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Ms. Anidelle Joy Alguso, Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Mr. Jeremiah C. Reyes, Chief-of-Staff of the Department of Trade and Industry – Office of the Secretary, highlighting the strategic importance of the processing and packaging sector to national economic growth and food security.
Industry Leader Highlights Market Opportunities and Growth Potential
Rose Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines, delivered compelling insights about the expanding processing and packaging landscape during the ceremony. “The processing and packaging industry in the Philippines is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by evolving consumer demands, e-commerce expansion, and sustainability imperatives,” Chitanuwat remarked. “This sector represents opportunities that extend beyond traditional manufacturing to encompass innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable development. The convergence of consumer consciousness and technological advancement is creating new market segments and business models that position the Philippines as a regional hub for sustainable packaging solutions.”
She further emphasized, “What we’re witnessing is not just industry growth, but industry transformation. Companies that embrace consumer-conscious innovation today will lead tomorrow’s markets, capturing both domestic opportunities and export potential in an increasingly sustainability-focused global economy.”
The event showcases the powerful synergy between government partners and industry stakeholders, creating an ecosystem that accelerates innovation and market development. This collaboration brings
unprecedented energy to the processing and packaging market through coordinated policy support, research and development initiatives, and strategic investment facilitation.
Government partners, including Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, and Philippine Economic Zone Authority, are working alongside industry associations and private sector leaders to create enabling environments for sustainable technology adoption, skills development, and market access. This unified approach is generating momentum that extends beyond individual company capabilities, fostering industry-wide transformation and competitive advantage.
Comprehensive Exhibition Floor Addresses Critical Industry Themes
ProPak Philippines 2026 features expanded content areas addressing the most pressing industry challenges and opportunities. This year, it will be the first time for the event to host alongside with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority a seminar series to learn how sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity are shaping the future of industrial growth in PEZA Ecozones, HALAL Conference by the Department of Trade Industry – Export Marketing Bureau on the growing importance of halal-certified products in the global market and DrinkTech where insightful discussions on the latest advancements in beverage technology will be covered. Other content sessions and activities involved packaging training courses, and forum, sustainability forum, and packaging clinic for hands-on consultation where participants can receive expert advice on improving their packaging solutions.
Record Participation Reflects Industry Momentum
With more than 250 exhibiting companies representing both established market leaders and emerging innovators, ProPak Philippines 2026 demonstrates the sector’s robust growth trajectory. The expected 10,000 visitors include manufacturers, processors, packaging specialists, technology providers, government officials, and international buyers, creating unprecedented networking and business development opportunities.
International participation spans key markets across several countries, bringing global best practices and cutting-edge technologies directly to Philippine industry professionals. This international dimension enhances knowledge transfer and positions local companies for expanded market reach.
Driving National Competitiveness Through Innovation
ProPak Philippines 2026 reinforces the Philippines’ position as a dynamic hub for processing and packaging innovation in Southeast Asia. By bringing together government leadership, industry expertise, and international technology providers, the event catalyzes the transformation needed to compete effectively in global markets while meeting evolving consumer expectations for sustainable, high-quality products.
The three-day event continues through February 6, featuring specialized conferences, technical seminars, hands-on workshops, and business matching sessions designed to translate insights into actionable business strategies and partnerships.
For more information, contact the ProPak Philippines Team
Recognizing the growing need of city travelers for stays that allow not just flexibility in terms of length of stay, but also provide the best value for their money, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel have created extended stay packages designed for guests staying a minimum of two nights that offer greater savings, enhanced perks, and the comforts and convenience of a true home away from home whether visiting for business or leisure.
A SMARTER WAY TO STAY IN THE CITY
At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, strategically located at the heart of Ortigas Center, guests enjoy the convenience of being within close proximity to key corporate offices, medical institutions, and some of Manila’s most popular shopping malls, with easy accessibility to other cities in the metro, making it an ideal address for both business and leisure stays. Guests staying a minimum of two nights can avail themselves of package rates starting at PhP 3,900 nett per night (room only) and PhP 5,500 nett per night (with daily breakfast buffet for two). Aside from these competitive rates, the package comes with value-added perks such as dining and massage discounts, access to the Health Club’s facilities, and the ease of settling in without the pressure of a short, overnight stay.
For guests planning a longer visit, the long-stay package delivers even greater savings and convenience, with rates from PhP 3,800 nett per night (room only) or PhP 5,400 nett per night (with daily breakfast buffet for two) if staying for at least five nights. Inclusive of daily laundry privileges, dining discounts, Wi-Fi access, and complimentary use of the gym and sauna, the package supports extended work assignments and unhurried city breaks, allowing guests to balance productivity, retail therapy, and relaxation with ease.
EFFORTLESS CITY LIVING
Meanwhile, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel delivers a seamless extended-stay experience within the metro’s pioneer master-planned development, the vibrant mixed-use township of Eastwood City where corporate offices, branded retail shops, diverse dining spots, and entertainment venues are all within easy walking distance. Ideal for guests who value safety, accessibility, and efficiency, the hotel lets both business and leisure travelers move through their day with ease, eliminating long commutes and maximizing time for productivity and recreation.
Guests staying a minimum of two nights can enjoy rates as low as PhP 4,400 nett per night (room only) and PhP 6,000 nett per night (with daily breakfast buffet for two). Perfect for short business trips or quick city escapes, the package includes access to the hotel’s gym and pool, as well as convenient parking to ensure a balanced stay that blends work commitments with moments of relaxation.
For longer visits, the hotel’s five-night package offers even greater value, with rates from PhP 4,300 nett per night (room only) and PhP 5,900 nett per night (with daily breakfast buffet for two). Designed for guests who want to fully settle in, the package includes daily laundry privileges, parking benefits, and lifestyle conveniences that support both work schedules and downtime. With everything from offices to entertainment just steps away, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel transforms extended city stays into an effortless and rewarding experience.
EXTENDED COMFORT, PURPOSEFUL HOSPITALITY
Committed to thoughtful and inclusive hospitality, Richmonde Hotels aim to offer service that goes beyond comfort and convenience. Both Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel are DOT certifiedMuslim-friendly establishments, providing considerate services that respect diverse guest needs, while championing sustainable practices that support responsible tourism. Guided by its signature Sampaguita brand of Filipino service—marked by genuine warmth, care, and attention to detail—Richmonde Hotels continue to enrich everyday stays with experiences that are comfortable, meaningful, and distinctly welcoming.
For many families who gathered at the Tanza Convention Center in Cavite, the day was more than a routine government outreach—it was a rare moment when healthcare, legal aid, and social services converged in one accessible space. Among the institutions that helped make this possible was the AMA Education System (AMAES), which joined the “Lab for All” initiative for the first time, marking a milestone for private educational institutions’ participation in large-scale public service efforts.
Led by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, the “Lab for All” program—short for Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot para sa Lahat—is a flagship outreach initiative of the Office of the First Lady. Designed to bring essential healthcare services directly to underserved communities, the program provides free medical consultations, diagnostic and laboratory services, medicines, and health education through a unified, community-centered platform.
AMAES stood out as the only private educational institution participating in the Cavite leg of the initiative. Through AMA University and the AMA School of Medicine, the institution anchored its involvement on a long-standing principle: that education must extend beyond the classroom and translate into meaningful service for the Filipino people.
At the forefront of AMAES’s participation was the AMA School of Medicine delegation led by Dean Atty. Michael Maniwa, MD, together with Dr. John Rey Gonzales, Dr. Janice Paras, and Dr. Eric De Leon. They were joined by medical clerks Chandu Aragonda, Dhivagar Muruganantham, Bhargav Regeti, Ravi Prasad Naik, Gopal Krishnan, and Pranay Kumar Reddy—students who gained firsthand experience in delivering healthcare within a real community setting.
For these future physicians, the outreach went beyond academic exposure. It became a practical lesson in compassionate, patient-centered care, reinforcing the importance of empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility in medical practice. Their participation reflected AMAES’s commitment to competency-based education grounded in real-world engagement.
The event also brought together a broad network of government agencies, including the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, PhilHealth, TESDA, PCSO, Pag-IBIG Fund, the Commission on Higher Education, and other partner institutions. This multi-agency collaboration underscored how coordinated efforts across sectors can strengthen public service delivery.
More than a single outreach activity, AMAES’s involvement in First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ “Lab for All” initiative highlighted the institution’s broader role in nation-building—one that bridges education, healthcare, and service. As the program continues to reach communities nationwide, the AMA Education System has expressed its commitment to supporting future “Lab for All” engagements, reinforcing its mission to educate professionals who serve with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
Industry’s Leader with Three FIPS 140-3 Level 3 Validated USB Drive Models Available Worldwide
Kingston Technology, a world leader in memory and technology solutions, today announced its award-winning Kingston IronKey Keypad 200 series (KP200 and KP200C) hardware-encrypted USB flash drives have received NIST FIPS 140-3 Level 3 validation. This certification brings the KP200 series in line with IronKey D500S, which has already achieved this prestigious security standard, further reinforcing Kingston’s commitment to providing robust, certified data protection solutions.
The KP200 series are keypad drives that are OS-independent and thus are usable on standard Windows®, macOS® platforms, as well as Linux®, ChromeOS™, even iOS and Android™ via USB-A or USB-C® connector. These drives are ideal for users who need encrypted storage to protect software that can be loaded or unloaded from medical, scientific, industrial, and other machinery with USB interfaces. For Operational Technology (OT) infrastructure companies, NIST recommends enhanced USB drive security through its new Special Publication (SP) 1334 guidance.
“The FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification process by NIST has been the most intensive and time-consuming effort in over a decade, but due to our commitment in providing the best product solutions for our customers, Kingston is now the world’s first hardware-encrypted USB drive supplier with three different drive models – D500S, KP200 and KP200C – certified to this de-facto global data security standard. With FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification, the IronKey KP200 and KP200C drives are exceptional for securing data-at-rest and meeting government and military standards worldwide,” said Kingston. “As data loss and theft continue to rise, these drives help organizations reduce the risks and costs associated with lost or stolen devices, while supporting compliance with regulations such as HIPAA, GDPR, NIS2, CCPA, and other regional data protection standards.”
KP200 series supports dual Admin and User PINs, providing an alternate way to access the drive if one password is forgotten. Other advanced features include the capabilities of an Admin to set a Global Read-Only mode until reset, or a Session Read-Only Mode to ensure the drive is locked against potential changes or malware being written to the drive on untrusted systems or devices. KP200 series is also IP68 certified dustproof and waterproof1.
KP200 series is customizable with Co-Logo, available with USB Type-A and USB-Type C2 in capacities up to 512GB3 and backed by limited 3-year warranty with free technical support.
Why just pay when every transaction helps you earn, save and enjoy more? With BDO Pay, settling your expenses goes beyond speed and convenience. Every scan or bill payment becomes an opportunity to unlock rewards and exclusive deals that add extra value to your daily spending—from mobile load top-ups to shopping at your favorite stores.
Shop smart, earn instantly
From February 1 to March 31, 2026, every time you use BDO Pay’s Scan to Pay at SM Store and SM Retail affiliates, you get a P100 SM eVoucher for every P5,000 accumulated spend. Each customer can earn up to P300 worth of eVouchers within the promo period.
Whether you’re grabbing beauty must-haves at Watsons, restocking your pantry essentials with SM Supermarket, styling your home with accents from Our Home, or browsing across a wide range of finds at SM Store, BDO Pay helps you get more value from every purchase.
Make your bills and payments work for you. With BDO Pay, earn rewards for shopping or your day-to-day expenses with no hassle, no fuss.
Load up on points
From January 16 to March 31, 2026, every time you Pay Bills or Buy Load through the BDO Pay app, you earn 1 Rewards point for every P100 spent.
To start earning and check your Rewards Points, just log in to the BDO Pay app and activate your BDO Rewards Card—it’s that quick and simple.
Simple, secure and made for you
BDO Pay makes life easier with features that fit your lifestyle—Pay Bills, Send Money, Scan to Pay, Split Bill and Request Money. Every transaction is effortless and safe with exclusive rewards that add value to your day-to-day spending.
Make every payment count. Download the app from the App Store, Google Play, or AppGallery. Sign in using your BDO Online username and password, and you can discover how convenience and rewards can work together. For full promo details and list of participating SM Retail merchants, visit bdo.com.ph/bdopay–evouchers.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), further strengthening a partnership that aims to advance climate resilience and promote green growth in the Philippines.
Recognizing that the climate crisis demands a whole-of-society approach, the CCC underscored the importance of sustained collaboration with key development partners such as the GGGI. The renewed engagement reaffirms the country’s commitment to pursue science-based, inclusive, and forward-looking solutions to climate challenges.
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the significance of the joint work between the Commission and GGGI.
“This allows us to jointly work in critical areas: from crafting science-based Green Growth Development Plans for our regions and cities, to strengthening the policy architecture that enables a low-carbon economy, and empowering our communities through knowledge and innovation.”
Dr. Malle Fofana, Asia Regional Director of the Global Green Growth Institute, emphasized that the renewed partnership is both timely and crucial.
“This partnership is really timely and I’m glad that we were able to renew it. We are family and your agenda is our agenda. The contribution of the Philippines as a core contributing member amplifies and champions green growth through partnership, enabling impact aligned with national priorities.”
The partnership with the GGGI reflects the broader imperative for stronger cooperation across sectors—government, development organizations, private institutions, and communities—to foster sustainability, strengthen resilience, and support the country’s transition toward a low-carbon and climate-smart future.
Deputy Executive Director Atty. Romell Antonio O. Cuenca echoed this message, stressing that collaboration accelerates progress.
“It is through such collaborations that we can amplify our impact, share innovation, and translate high-level policies into tangible, life-improving actions on the ground, especially for our most vulnerable communities.”
Mr. Marcel J. Silvius, Deputy Regional Director and Country Representative of GGGI, underscored the critical role of the CCC in driving climate action.
“I cannot stress enough how important the partnership with the Climate Change Commission is as an overall policy driver for climate change and for development-oriented projects in the Philippines. Together, we are advancing concrete initiatives that mobilize investment and deliver scalable impact.”
The CCC remains steadfast in engaging with various sectors to advance climate action domestically and globally, reaffirming its commitment to building a climate-resilient and sustainable Philippines.
For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl. ###
PlayTime Entertainment today announces the launch of PT Sports, the company’s newest business vertical, following the recent debut of PT IDOL. With PT Sports, PlayTime Entertainment continues its evolution into a fully integrated entertainment platform—bringing together talent development, sports, and performance-driven content under one unified brand.
PT Sports is designed to manage athletes, produce premium sports and competitive content, and develop strategic partnerships across venues and platforms. The division treats sport as entertainment—where performance, storytelling, and spectacle converge—aligned with PlayTime Entertainment’s broader vision of celebrating Filipino excellence across all forms of competition.
“After the launch of PT IDOL, expanding into sports was a natural progression for us,” said Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations at PlayTime Entertainment. “Entertainment today goes beyond traditional categories. Whether on stage, on screen, or in competition, performance is at the heart of what audiences connect with. PT Sports allows us to build that connection through sport.”
PT Sports Launches with Elite All-Filipino Esports Platform
PT Sports debuts with an all-Filipino professional esports team competing at the highest regional level in Southeast Asia. The team represents one of the top competitive organizations in the region, and will compete internationally under the PT Sports banner.
The division will gradually expand beyond esports into traditional sports and emerging competitive formats, with new initiatives, partnerships, and athlete programs to be announced as the platform scales.
From Category Player to Entertainment Platform
The launch of PT Sports marks another milestone in PlayTime Entertainment’s transformation into a comprehensive entertainment company. Following the establishment of PT IDOL, the company continues to formalize its long-standing involvement across entertainment—from sports and live events to cultural and national platforms—into dedicated, scalable verticals.
“We have always believed that PlayTime is about entertainment in all its forms,” Cortez added. “Over the years, we have supported Filipino films, concerts, national pageants, and championship sports. PT IDOL and PT Sports are not pivots—they are the realization of a long-term vision. We built the relationships, credibility, and infrastructure first. Now we are scaling with focus, discipline, and championship standards.”
When urgent demands collide with unforeseen circumstances, you need a phone built to keep up with everything—from weather changes, accidental bumps, and battery anxiety. The OPPO A6 Pro has you covered, designed to handle spills and drops, and comes with a high battery capacity to keep your hustle moving even in tough times.
Take on the elements, shrug off hard knocks
The OPPO A6 Pro boasts an IP69-rated sealing that locks out dust and stands up to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets, so ports and seams stay intact even after accidental liquid spills or sudden downpours.
Adding to this is its military-grade shock resistance, built with a reinforced frame, toughened glass, and targeted impact cushions around key components of the device to disperse impact from edge and corner drops. Its structure is stressed across multiple angles and surfaces to curb deformation and micro-fractures, keeping the display, radios, and haptics operating within spec long after each bump.
Run longer, refuel faster
Large batteries have long been a priority for mobile users who rely on their phones throughout the day. Equipped with a 7,000mAh battery for the OPPO A6 Pro and a 6,500mAh battery for its 5G variant, the device is designed to balance strong performance with efficient power management during heavy usage. It also has reverse wired charging functionality so you can use your OPPO A6 Pro as a handy powerbank when you need to refuel your other devices on the go.
When battery levels dip between classes and meetings, the 80W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge tops up the battery in just minutes, supported by real-time thermal monitoring, cell protection, and adaptive current control to reduce charging time without placing unnecessary stress on the battery. By managing voltage and heat, the system keeps charging fast while bringing the phone back to a reliable level in no time.
Get the OPPO A6 Pro, tough tech for every day
The OPPO A6 Pro is sealed against the elements, built to take a hit, and made to last through long days. Get it at OPPO stores nationwide or online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the official OPPO online store.
OPPO A6 Pro Pricing
OPPO A6 Pro 4G (Coral Pink and Lunar Titanium)
8GB + 256GB – PHP 15,999
OPPO A6 Pro 5G (Coral Pink and Stellar Blue)
6GB + 128GB – PHP 13,999
8GB + 256GB – PHP 18,999
Online Exclusive perks on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok
PHP 500 off OPPO voucher
3 months 0% interest installment via SPayLater
Up to 0% interest installment via LazPayLater
Up to 12 months installment via TikTok PayLater
OPPO Online Store Benefits
The OPPO online store is offering exciting benefits when you purchase the OPPO A6 Pro, with redeemable vouchers using OPPOints via the My OPPO App until February 28, 2026.
PHP 300 voucher – 500 OPPOints
PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints
PHP 700 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints
Free Shipping
Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty
Postpaid Plans
Globe GPlan1499 with ZERO Cashout – OPPO A6 Pro 5G (8GB + 256GB)
Home Credit – Pay in 6, 9, 12, 15, or 18 months at 0% interest + PHP 500 discount from November 1 to 30 (only for OPPO A6 Pro 4G and OPPO A6 Pro 5G 8GB + 256GB)
Credit Cards – 0% interest for 6 or 12 months on select banks
Know more about the OPPO A6 Pro by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website
Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has partnered with Shopee Philippines for Shopee Live on Wheels at Market! Market!, happening from January 20 to 24, 2026. This exciting consumer-facing initiative aims to campaign for HONOR’s newest smartphone, HONOR X9d 5G, which is still available for pre-order with a chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck.
“We are nearing the official nationwide availability of our toughest phone to date, HONOR X9d 5G, and we couldn’t be more excited. This partnership with Shopee is very important to us, as it allows our HONOR fans to experience the HONOR X9d 5G before its official launch,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
What to Expect at HONOR x Shopee on Wheels
Miss Philippines Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma will put the toughness of the HONOR X9d 5G to the test against the all-steel Tesla Cybertruck as she goes live on Shopee. When you pre-order during her live session, you will receive an additional FREE Jisulife Life Fan 5 and enjoy up to 6 months of 0% installment. One lucky winner each day will also take home a brand-new HONOR X9d 5G.
With an introductory price of Php 17,999, the HONOR X9d 5G pre-order runs until January 23, giving customers a chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck worth 17 million pesos. Get it now via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9d_Media).
For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.
