Sunday, March 15, 2026
spot_img
Home Blog Page 8

Shaping the Future of Packaging and Processing: ProPak Philippines Champions Sustainability and Consumer-Centric Solutions

0

ProPak Philippines, the country’s leading international trade event for the processing and packaging industries, is set to take place its 6th edition this year with a powerful theme: “Consumer-Conscious Innovation: Driving Global Competitiveness and Sustainability”, on 4 – 6 February 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City. The event which is under the prominent ProPak brand will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore cutting-edge solutions that address the growing demand for sustainable and consumer-focused processing and packaging technologies.

As the Philippines continues to position itself as a key player in the global market, ProPak Philippines serves as a vital platform for businesses to showcase innovations, exchange knowledge, and foster collaborations that align with global sustainability goals.

The Processing and Packaging Industry: A Growing Force in the Philippines

The processing and packaging industry in the Philippines has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the country’s expanding food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. According to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority, the manufacturing sector grew by 7.3% in 2025, with food and beverage processing accounting for a substantial share. This growth underscores the increasing demand for advanced packaging and processing solutions that cater to both local and international markets.

However, with this growth comes the challenge of meeting evolving consumer expectations.  Studies reveal that Filipino consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of the products they use. A 2025 survey by NielsenIQ found that 78% of Filipino consumers prefer brands that prioritize sustainable packaging, while 65% are willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products. This shift in consumer behavior highlights the urgent need for businesses to adopt innovative and sustainable practices to remain competitive.

Market Trends: Sustainability and Consumer Awareness

Sustainability has become a defining trend in the global packaging and processing industries.  Some companies are now focusing on reducing waste, using recyclable materials, and adopting energy-efficient production processes. In the Philippines, the rise of e-commerce and the increasing demand for convenience have further strengthened the need for sustainable packaging solutions that balance functionality with environmental responsibility.

Filipino consumers are not only looking for products that are eco-friendly but are also scrutinizing the entire supply chain from sourcing raw materials to disposal. This increasing awareness is pushing businesses to innovate and align their practices with sustainability standards, creating opportunities for growth and differentiation in the market.

ProPak Philippines 2026 is the right venue for businesses to address these challenges and opportunities. “Consumer-conscious Innovation is not just a theme, but it is a call to action for businesses to align with the evolving demands of sustainability and global competitiveness. ProPak Philippines is in the frontline to do this transformation, and equip

industries with the tools, insights, and partnerships needed to create solutions that are both environmentally responsible and market-driven”, said Ms. Rungphech Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines, the organiser of ProPak Philippines.

The event is strongly supported by esteemed organizations such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Science and Technology – Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Design Center of the Philippines, and other industry leaders. Their involvement underscores the importance of ProPak Philippines in advancing the country’s industrial capabilities and global competitiveness.

Content-Driven Activities to Empower the Industry

ProPak Philippines 2026 not only offers a wide array of manufacturers and suppliers, but it also shows a rich lineup of activities designed to empower businesses and professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. Some of the event activities include:

  • Australasian Institute of Packaging Training Course: A paid training course hosted by the Australasian Institute of Packaging, on accessible and inclusive packaging, and sustainable packaging practices.
  • Australasian Institute of Packaging Packaging Forum: A platform for industry experts to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in sustainable packaging and also led by the Australasian Institute of Packaging
  • DrinkTech: DrinkTech will offer insightful discussions on the latest advancements in beverage technology, covering the entire value chain from production and processing to packaging.
  • Green Impact Stories: Collection of successful sustainable packaging stories from key sustainability champions
  • Halal Conference: This will delve into the growing importance of halal-certified products in the global market, with a focus on processing and packaging standards that meet halal requirements and discuss growing challenges and opportunities in the halal market.
  • Packaging Clinic: A hands-on consultation where participants can receive expert advice on improving their packaging solutions.
  • Philippine Economic Zone Authority Conference: This will focus on exploring investment opportunities in the Philippines, particularly within the processing and packaging industries. This session aims to highlight the country’s potential as a hub for innovation and manufacturing, attracting both local and international investors.
  • Technical Seminars: Sessions covering the latest advancements in processing and packaging technologies.

These activities, combined with the event’s extensive exhibition, make ProPak Philippines a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the competitive and rapidly evolving processing and packaging industries.

Driving the Future of Sustainability and Competitiveness

By focusing on consumer-conscious innovation, ProPak Philippines empowers businesses to embrace sustainability, enhance their global competitiveness, and meet the demands of an increasingly aware and discerning market.

ProPak Philippines 2026 is expected to welcome over 250 exhibitors and 10,000 trade visitors.  Admission is free to offer the market with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders and innovators. Join the ProPak Philippines community to drive the future of the processing and packaging industries.

For more information, contact the ProPak Philippines Team

Contact Person: Ms. Jomia Pagkatotohan | Assistant Marketing Manager Email Address: Jomia.pagkatotohan@informa.com

Telephone: +63 2 8581 1917

Website: www.propakphilippines.com

2GO Advances Capabilities as Philippine Logistics Demand Grows

0

2GO, the country’s leading logistics solutions provider, enters 2026 with a strong service pipeline and renewed focus on innovation, integration, and nationwide connectivity. The company is intensifying efforts across freight, express delivery, sea travel, and digital fulfilment to support businesses and consumers in a market that continues to expand.

The Philippine logistics market has shown robust growth driven by rising domestic consumption, infrastructure improvements, and digital commerce. As of 2024, the logistics industry reached an estimated USD 55.65 billion, and it is projected to grow at about 6 percent annually through 2030 as investments in transport networks and digital services deepen.

Online commerce is becoming a major force shaping logistics demand. The Philippines e-commerce sector is expected to surpass USD 28 billion in 2025 with strong double-digit annual growth as more consumers shop online and sellers scale digitally. These trends are driving significant need for reliable fulfilment, tracking, and delivery services across the country’s thousands of islands.

“Our outlook for 2026 is anchored on building smarter and more responsive logistics solutions that support economic activity where it matters most,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group Inc. “As the Philippine economy grows, logistics becomes even more essential. Our role is to ensure goods, services, and people move reliably and efficiently across the country.”

Strengthening logistics to support growth

E-commerce remains a key growth driver for logistics in the Philippines. In response, 2GO continues to expand its express and e-commerce fulfilment capabilities with nationwide pickup, sorting, and last-mile delivery supported by digital tracking and integrated platforms. These services help businesses of all sizes reach customers faster and with greater confidence.

Beyond last-mile delivery, 2GO’s freight forwarding and special container solutions support industries with secure, temperature-controlled, and customized cargo handling requirements. These services are vital for manufacturers, agribusinesses, and exporters navigating both inter-island and international trade flows.

2GO’s sea-based logistics and ROPAX operations further strengthen its multimodal capabilities. Through sea travel and rolling cargo services, the company connects major and secondary ports, enabling the movement of passengers alongside essential goods. Recent investments in port infrastructure, including expanded passenger terminals, support stronger connectivity between Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and reflect the continued growth of inter-island mobility and commerce.

Integrated solutions for a dynamic market

As customer expectations evolve, 2GO continues to deliver integrated logistics solutions that unite land, air and sea into a connected and visible supply chain. Investments in operational efficiency, asset utilization, and customer-focused services are central to the company’s strategy for 2026.

“Growth today requires flexibility and integration,” DyBuncio added. “Our priority is to make logistics simpler for our customers by offering solutions that are reliable, scalable, and aligned with their specific needs, whether they are SMEs, large enterprises, or online sellers.”

Contributing to national development

Logistics remains a critical driver of economic resilience and inclusive growth in the Philippines. By improving seamless cargo movement, reducing handovers through point-to-point logistics solutions, and strengthening inter-island connectivity, 2GO helps keep trade costs reasonable and expands market access for businesses nationwide.

As the company enters 2026, 2GO reaffirms its commitment to supporting the country’s economic trajectory through dependable logistics, continuous service improvement, and investments that enhance mobility and trade.

“With the right infrastructure, partnerships, and people, logistics becomes a catalyst for national progress,” DyBuncio said. “That is the role 2GO will continue to play in the years ahead.”

To learn more about 2GO and its services, visit www.2go.com.ph.

HONOR X9d 5G Grand Launch Brings Together Sponge Cola, 6ense, YARA, and Boys Night Out

0

The most anticipated smartphone launch of the year is happening on January 9, and its high-profile headliners are already making waves online

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is gearing up for the highly anticipated launch of the HONOR X9d 5G and has recently unveiled its star-studded lineup. OPM legend Sponge Cola is confirmed to perform at the launch, while hosting duties will be handled by the boys of Boys Night Out, the iconic evening radio talk show. Catch the event live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/X9dLaunch_PR.

“At the launch of the HONOR X9d 5G, we will be joined by our dearest media friends, HONOR Stars, and of course, our esteemed dealer partners. We want to give them the best as a show of gratitude for the support they have given us for this launch. We also want to share this moment with our HONOR fans, which is why we are streaming the event online,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

HONOR Philippines is also known for championing talented P-Pop groups, and for the HONOR X9d 5G Grand Launch, rising stars 6ENSE and YARA will take the stage. HONOR Stars The Aguinaldos, Chichi Dela Cruz, Hammerman, and others will also be present at the event.

Watch out for the grand launch of the toughest phone of the year, the HONOR X9d 5G, on January 9. Catch it live on Facebook at https://bit.ly/X9dLaunch_PR — and you might just be the lucky winner of a brand-new HONOR X9d 5G. Simply follow the mechanics posted here.

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.

Check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

DVOREF Law ni Rep. Romualdez, Pumasok sa Top 4 Nationwide; Elite Circle sa 2025 Bar Exams naabot na!

0

TACLOBAN CITY — Patuloy ang “good vibes” para sa Leyte matapos ang Bar Examinations dahil opisyal nang kabilang ang Dr. V. Orestes Romualdez Educational Foundation (DVOREF) College of Law sa hanay ng mga pinakamahuhusay na law schools sa buong Pilipinas.

Base sa datos na inilabas ng Supreme Court nitong January 7, 2026, ang DVOREF ang itinanghal na 4th top-performing law school nationwide (para sa mga paaralang may higit sa 100 candidates). Nakakuha ang eskwelahan ng kahanga-hangang 80.19% passing rate para sa mga first-time examinees.

Tagumpay ng Probinsya sa Larangan ng Abogasya

Isang malaking “breakthrough” ito para sa bansa dahil ang DVOREF ang tanging law school mula sa probinsya na nakapasok sa Top 5 ng kanilang kategorya. Sa kabuuang 106 na kumuha ng exam, 85 ang pumasa, dahilan para makatabi ng DVOREF ang mga dambuhalang unibersidad sa Manila.

Top Law Schools (More than 100 First-Time Candidates):

  1. Ateneo de Manila University
  2. University of the Philippines
  3. University of Santo Tomas
  4. DVOREF College of Law
  5. San Beda College of Law – Alabang

Vision at Dedikasyon ni Dean Martin Romualdez

Ang DVOREF College of Law ay pinamumunuan ni Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. Bilang isang abogado na nagtapos sa UP College of Law, layunin ni Romualdez na itaas ang kalidad ng edukasyon sa labas ng Metro Manila.

“Ang tagumpay na ito ay patunay na ang excellence sa legal education ay hindi lang para sa Metro Manila,” ani Romualdez. “Ipinakita nito ang galing at sipag ng mga estudyante natin sa Leyte at Visayas. Patunay ito na basta’t tama ang mentorship at disiplina, kayang makipagsabayan ng ating mga regional graduates sa pinakamahuhusay sa bansa.”

Pinasalamatan din ni Dean Romualdez ang buong komunidad ng DVOREF. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa ating administrative staff, faculty members, mga magulang, at lalo na sa ating mga estudyante. Shared victory natin ito.”

World-Class Standards

Ang “Performance of Law Schools” report ng Supreme Court ang nagsisilbing official benchmark para sa kalidad ng mga law schools sa bansa. Sa paglampas ng DVOREF sa maraming sikat na paaralan sa Maynila, napatunayan nito na ang Leyte ay isa nang sentro ng karunungan sa batas.

Dalawang araw matapos ang 2025 Bar cycle, ang balitang ito ay nagdala ng ‘good vibes’ at inspirasyon sa lahat ng mga taga-Leyte at sa mga katuwang sa larangan ng batas.

TRYX Unveils Groundbreaking Innovations at CES 2026: TURRIS Air Cooler, FLOVA Mid-Tower Case, and STAGE AIO Liquid Cooler

0

TRYX, the innovative PC hardware brand renowned for pushing the boundaries of cooling performance and aesthetic design, is thrilled to announce three groundbreaking products at CES 2026: the TURRIS 620 CPU air cooler, the FLOVA F50 mid-tower ATX case, and the STAGE 360 AIO liquid cooler. Building on the success of the PANORAMA series, these new offerings combine cutting-edge display technology, exceptional thermal efficiency, and user-centric features to empower PC enthusiasts, gamers, and creators.

STAGE 360: The Most Interactive AIO Yet with Dual Spliced Displays

Elevating the AIO experience, STAGE 360 features dual 4.0-inch IPS displays spliced into a seamless “STAGE” (dual 720×720 HD, 254 PPI, 16.7M colors) on a premium aluminum base built for durability and endless playability. Powered by Asetek technology and paired with three ROTA SL ARGB fans, it handles 280W TDP with quiet, efficient cooling.

Full KANALI support provides immersive customization, allowing for users to pair personalized displays with figures and models on their AIO, while the double-sided base and robust construction make STAGE a profoundly unique and interactive centrepiece.

Available in black or white 360mm variants, it supports Intel LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X and AMD AM5/AM4.

TURRIS 620: The Ultimate Custom Air Cooler with Integrated Display

Marking TRYX’s debut in high-end air cooling, the TURRIS 620 redefines what’s possible with a futuristic, minimalist dual-tower design featuring a massive 5.0-inch IPS display (Ultra-Wide HD panel at 60Hz). This magnetic mounted screen, fully supported by TRYX’s acclaimed KANALI software, offers a full customizable system monitoring, media playback, or stunning visuals.

Engineered for silent performance at extreme loads, TURRIS 620 delivers up to 280W TDP cooling with a six heat-pipe configuration, void-free soldering, nickel-plated micro-convex copper base, and heat-pipe offset optimized for Intel platforms. Even under max load, the TURRIS 620 as low as 32.5 dBA (tested in TRYX labs).

TURRIS 620 introduces a new level of intuitive and simple installation and tweaking, thanks to quick-release ROTA fans mounted on a stable rail system.

Available in black or white, TURRIS 620 supports Intel LGA 1851/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5

FLOVA F50: Elegant Mid-Tower Case Blending Home Aesthetics with High Performance

The FLOVA F50 mid-tower case introduces a sophisticated, living-space-friendly design with ventilated fabric-finished front and side panels in black, white, or pink. Operating with ultra-quiet operation at 20 dBA (1,100 RPM), it’s perfect for home offices, studios, gaming setups, or creative workstations.

A standout innovation is the proprietary TRYX Cross-Flow (TCF) fan, custom-engineered exclusively for FLOVA and meticulously balanced for an exceptional noise-to-performance ratio. This side-mounted TCF provides a unique 90° airflow channel for uniform, efficient heat dissipation while maintaining ultra-quiet operation.

Supporting back-connect motherboards (BTF/Project Zero), GPUs up to 420mm, air coolers up to 170mm, and 360mm radiators, FLOVA offers tool-free assembly, rich I/O (including USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2), and excellent cable management.

Available in black, white and pink models.

Figaro Establishes Innovation Subsidiary to Expand Food Manufacturing Capability

0

Figaro Culinary Group, a publicly listed food and beverage company, continues to strengthen its long-term growth strategy with the establishment and expansion of Figaro Innovation and Development Inc. (FIDI), a wholly owned subsidiary created to broaden the Group’s food product offerings, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and prepare for future export opportunities.

This strategic direction was underscored by the recent ceremonial signing of a Supplemental Agreement between FIDI and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), held in Pasay City. The agreement reaffirms FIDI’s status as a PEZA-registered export enterprise, supporting its operations at the Laguna Technopark – Special Economic Zone and enabling the manufacturing of products such as Anghel Kape and other food innovations under the Figaro Culinary Group portfolio.

FIDI was established by Figaro Culinary Group to serve as its dedicated innovation and manufacturing arm, allowing the Group to scale food production beyond its retail brands while building capabilities for both domestic distribution and eventual export markets. Through FIDI, the Group aims to develop new food formats, improve production efficiency, and strengthen quality standards aligned with international requirements.

The Supplemental Agreement builds on FIDI’s existing PEZA Certificate of Registration, which recognizes the company’s registered activities as an export enterprise engaged in toll manufacturing of coffee mixes and food products.

Present at the signing were Brian Gregory Liu, Chairman of Figaro Innovation and Development Inc.; Tereso O. Panga, Director General of PEZA; Joy Anidelle Alguso, Deputy Director General of PEZA; and Jose Petronio Español, Chief Financial Officer of FIDI.

“This agreement supports Figaro Culinary Group’s broader vision of expanding its food platforms beyond retail, strengthening manufacturing, and positioning our brands for future growth,” said Español.

PEZA Director General Panga likewise emphasized the importance of companies like FIDI in driving innovation, development, and inclusive growth within economic zones.

Uplifting teachers, strengthening communities through the power of clothing 

0

UNIQLO, BDO Network Bank, BDO Foundation, and the Department of Education join forces to provide LifeWear for public school teachers nationwide

Education is one of the strongest pillars of nation-building. Guided by this belief, UNIQLO collaborated with BDO Network Bank (BDONB) and BDO Foundation for the global Heart of LifeWear Project, which aims to provide LifeWear clothing to people in need around the world. Since its launch in 2024, UNIQLO has donated more than one million clothing items to partner communities worldwide.

In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the local iteration of the Heart of LifeWear aims to distribute 10,000 AIRism T-shirts to public school teachers nationwide, providing them with comfortable apparel while supporting and uplifting them in their everyday lives.

A ceremonial turnover was held recently at the Department of Education Office in Makati, where representatives from the three organizations formally handed over 10,000 AIRism T-shirts for distribution to teachers nationwide.

Present at the event were UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia, Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, BDO Network Bank Group Head Alberto O. Quiogue, and BDO Foundation President Mario A. Deriquito, along with DepEd regional officials, BDO officers, and members of UNIQLO’s Sustainability team.

 Empowering Communities Beyond Banking

The partnership with UNIQLO Philippines demonstrates BDO Network Bank’s continuing advocacy to empower educators—not only through accessible financial services but also through holistic support. BDONB has long collaborated with DepEd on programs such as the Teacher’s Loan, financial literacy training, and community engagement initiatives, reaffirming its role as a trusted partner of the education sector.

The partnership also connects local impact with global purpose. The activity is a part of UNIQLO’s Heart of LifeWear Project, a global movement that champions the Power of Clothing—the idea that clothing can go beyond function to deliver comfort, dignity, and hope. This global initiative has reached over 28 regions worldwide, and through the collaboration with BDO Network Bank, BDO Foundation, and DepEd, its philosophy finds a meaningful local expression for Filipino teachers.

“Every time we lift our teachers, we strengthen the communities that depend on them.  This collaboration shows how even a simple gesture can carry a meaningful message of gratitude and shared purpose.  These shirts offer comfort, but more importantly, they honor the people who guide our learners with steady dedication every day.  When we invest in teachers, we invest in the country’s future,” added Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

“Our Heart of LifeWear encapsulates the essence of what our philosophy is all about – clothing made for all, with the purpose of empowering people and making their everyday lives better. Through this initiative, we show our gratitude to our public school teachers that serve us well, and we hope this small gift provides them the comfort that they need to power them through their everyday lives,” said UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia.

BDO Foundation President Mario A. Deriquito said, “We remain committed to working with DepEd in uplifting our education community especially our teachers. We look forward to partnering with DepEd for more projects in the future for the benefit of Filipino educators and learners.”

“For BDO Network Bank, this initiative reaffirms our unwavering commitment to empower educators—not only through accessible financial services but through holistic support that truly makes a difference in their daily lives,” said BDO Network Bank Group Head Alberto O. Quiogue.

Uplifting Teachers, Strengthening Communities through the Power of Clothing. (from left) UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia, Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, BDO Network Bank Group Head Alberto O. Quiogue, and BDO Foundation President Mario A. Deriquito during the ceremonial turnover of UNIQLO AIRism shirts for distribution of DepEd to public school teachers nationwide.

Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia, Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, BDO Network Bank Group Head Alberto O. Quiogue, and BDO Foundation President Mario A. Deriquito during the ceremonial turnover of UNIQLO AIRism shirts for distribution of DepEd to public school teachers nationwide.

RLC Residences Caps a Year of Collective Excellence and Industry Leadership

0

RLC Residences closes the year marked by meaningful milestones—each one shaped by shared vision, collaboration, and a commitment to building with purpose. Throughout 2025, the brand earned distinctions across both local and international platforms, reflecting its continued focus on thoughtfully designed, future-ready homes that respond to how people live today.

Conferred by respected institutions such as PropertyGuru Property Awards, DOT Property Awards, Asia Pacific Property Awards, and The Global Economics Awards, the year’s achievements highlight the depth of work behind every RLC Residences development—from planning and design to execution and community-building.

Leading with Purpose, Strengthened by Experience

RLC Residences’ leadership in the residential sector was affirmed when it was named Developer of the Year for the second consecutive year by the DOT Property Philippines Awards and Best Condominium Developer Philippines by The Global Economics Awards. These distinctions underscore the brand’s strength across a wide range of residential offerings—from starter homes to premium developments.

These achievements are further strengthened by the legacy and expertise of its parent company, Robinsons Land, which was honored at the PropertyGuru Property Awards as Best Luxury Developer at the Asia level and Best Developer in the Philippines for the fourth consecutive year, reflecting the company’s consistent standards across markets.

Together, these honors highlight a shared standard of excellence, combining RLC Residences’ forward-looking vision with Robinsons Land’s decades-long track record in real estate development.

Award-Winning Developments, United by One Vision

RLC Residences’ portfolio demonstrates a careful balance of design excellence, innovation, and sustainability, with each development reflecting a clear understanding of modern living.

At the forefront of architectural distinction, Le Pont Residences sets a benchmark for high-end residential living, earning Best Condominium Architectural Design in the Philippines and Southeast Asia from the DOT Property Awards. Its refined design and attention to detail establish a standard for elevated living and style in the region. This commitment to exceptional quality is further exemplified by The Residences at the Westin Manila, honored as Best Completed Condo Development locally and Best Completed Luxury Condo Development in Asia by the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. The project combines world-class hospitality standards with premium residential comfort, reflecting RLC Residences’ dedication to flawless execution.

Blending accessibility with innovation, SYNC exemplifies how well-designed homes can cater to diverse lifestyles. It received the Gold Award for Residential High-Rise Condominium from the FIABCI Philippines Property & Real Estate Awards held in April, as well as Best Starter Home Condominium from the DOT Property Philippines Awards. The property was also recognized as Best Mid-End Condo Development in Metro Manila and across Asia by the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. SYNC demonstrates a thoughtfully planned urban residential development that combines style, functionality, and livability on both local and regional scales.

Continuing the focus on forward-looking design, MIRA showcases the seamless integration of technology, smart home features, and family-oriented planning. The development received Residential High-Rise Development and Residential High-Rise Architecture for the Philippines from the Asia Pacific Property Awards in May, along with Best Smart Home Condominium from the DOT Property Philippines Awards – highlighting RLC Residences’ approach to creating homes that combine modern convenience with spaces for families to grow.

Environmental responsibility also remained central, as seen in Sierra Valley Gardens, which was Highly Commended – Best Eco-Friendly Condo Development by the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and named Apartment / Condominium Development for the Philippines by the Asia Pacific Property Awards. The project underscores the importance of environmentally responsible design in shaping livable communities.

Mantawi Residences further reinforces this promise to sustainable, high-quality living. Recognized as Best Sustainable Development by the DOT Property Philippines Awards and Highly Commended – Best High-End Condo Development in Metro Cebu by the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, it combines eco-conscious planning with premium residential standards.

Beyond high-rise living, The Magnolia Residences demonstrates RLC Residences’ versatility in integrating residential comfort with lifestyle convenience. Named Best Mixed-Use Development Project Philippines by The Global Economics Awards, the project highlights thoughtful urban planning that caters to the needs of modern homeowners.

Completing the portfolio, Springdale Baliwag was Highly Commended – Best Subdivision Development by the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, reflecting the brand’s commitment to creating vibrant communities outside metropolitan areas. Together, these projects illustrate a holistic approach to development—where design, innovation, and sustainability converge to deliver homes that stand out locally and internationally.

Shaping the Industry Beyond Developments

RLC Residences’ work extends past the projects themselves. Its approach to responsible building was highlighted through a Special Recognition Award for Sustainable Construction from DOT Property Philippines Awards, along with acknowledgments for Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency from PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards—a reflection of how sustainability is embedded across planning, construction, and long-term operations.

The brand’s broader influence was also recognized as it was named Manila Bulletin Newsmakers of the Year, citing its role in shaping discussions around urban living, sustainability, and the future of residential development in the country.

Behind every milestone is a collective effort—teams, partners, and communities working together toward a shared goal. For RLC Residences, the year’s progress serves not as a finish line, but as a foundation for what comes next. As it looks ahead, it remains focused on building homes and communities that are relevant, resilient, and thoughtfully crafted—supported by collaboration, guided by purpose, and strengthened by the enduring foundation of Robinsons Land.

To explore RLC Residences’ award-winning developments, visit rlcresidences.com.

DOUBLE VICTORY: SUN LIFE GREPA EARNS TOP HONORS AT INTERNATIONAL FINANCE AWARDS 2025 AND INSURANCE ASIA AWARDS 2025 

0

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s leading life insurance companies, has achieved a double milestone after receiving recognition from two prestigious international award-giving bodies for its MyBiz program – an innovative suite of insurance and protection solutions designed for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Sun Life Grepa was named Best MSME Insurance Initiative of the Year at the International Finance Awards 2025. The annual program recognizes industry excellence by honoring organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and contribution to their respective sectors. Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation of their achievements and impact on their industries.

The company also took home the MSME Insurance Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the Insurance Asia Awards 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive year (2022 – 2025) that Sun Life Grepa has been honored by Insurance Asia, which celebrates outstanding insurers across the region for their excellence in claims management, product innovation, customer experience, and digitation transformation.

“These recognitions from Insurance Asia and International Finance Awards affirm our mission to build brighter futures by protecting the very backbone of our economy – the MSMEs,” Peter M. Miranda, Vice President for Group Marketing Operations at Sun Life Life Grepa.

Launched in 2022, the MyBiz program provides MSMEs with easy access to holistic insurance packages that cater to the wellness, protection, and recovery needs of their employees. The program, offered through Sun Life Grepa Healthcare, features three comprehensive packages – Accident ProSafe, Smart Care Plus, and HIPSTER – to meet the evolving needs of businesses across various stages of growth, from start-ups to established enterprises.

“Through sun Life Grepa Healthcare, employers can provide their teams with straightforward, affordable, and comprehensive protection plans – whether their business is just starting, expanding, or thriving,” Miranda added.

To learn more about how Sun Life Grepa helps empowers MSMEs and safeguard their employees’ future, visit any Sun Life Grepa branch, speak with a Sun Life Grepa advisor, or follow Sun Life Grepa Healthcare on Facebook.

Celebrating Kasambahays as Palawan Group and JCI Senate Honor Trusted Support of Filipino Households

0

Now in its 10th year, the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards (KK Awards) honored the dedication of Filipino household workers who help keep homes and families strong. A joint initiative of the Palawan Group of Companies and JCI Senate Philippines, the program reflects a shared commitment to uplifting everyday Filipinos and recognizing the vital role kasambahays play in building stronger communities. This year’s ceremony brought together kasambahays, their employers, and their families in a heartfelt celebration of service and commitment.

The KK Awards recognized a total of 20 outstanding kasambahays from the 2024 and 2025 award cycles for their years of dedicated service. Each awardee received ₱100,000 in cash and access to a TESDA scholarship, which they may use personally or extend to their loved ones, opening opportunities for upskilling, livelihood, and continued growth. Their years of service reflect deep care, dedication, and love for the families who have become their second homes.

Karlo M. Castro, President and CEO of Palawan Group, remarked that the program reflects deeply held Filipino values: “Kasambahays are the quiet heroes of Filipino homes. Their work brings stability, safety, and peace of mind to families every day.  Through this initiative, we want them to know they are seen, valued, and truly appreciated.”

With a legacy spanning 40 years, the Palawan Group is today the country’s leading and most trusted pawnshop and money remittance company. Kasambahays have long been an important and valued customer segment, regularly availing of pawning services, buying load, and sending remittances to support their families. They are among Palawan Group’s most loyal sukis, whose trust often extends to their loved ones as well.

Beyond providing essential financial services, the Palawan Group stands among the very few companies that has consistently recognized and honored kasambahays through a dedicated, long-running program. This commitment has been further strengthened through PalawanPay, now one of the fastest-growing e-wallet apps in the Philippines, which offers accessible tools that make managing finances easier, safer, and more convenient for everyday needs.

Mylene M. Dayrit, National Executive Vice President of JCI Senate Philippines, shared, “Through the Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Awards, we honor kasambahays as everyday leaders whose tireless commitment uplifts families, strengthens communities, and sets an example of loyalty, care, and responsibility. Their work may often go unseen, but it shapes the foundation of our homes and society.”

For the first time, the KK Awards also recognized Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) serving as household helpers. They were honored for the same resilience and dedication shown by local kasambahays, often working far from home to support their families. Nominations were made more accessible through PalawanPay, allowing employers, families, and friends to submit entries anytime, anywhere.

Deputy Chairman and co-founder Angelita M. Castro further emphasized “Iba ang aruga ng Pinoy, makikita ito sa kung paano inaalagaan ng mga kasambahay ang pamilyang kanilang pinaglilingkuran, na para na rin nilang sariling pamilya.”

She further shared, “At Palawan Group, our corporate social responsibility philosophy is simple: we uplift communities by uplifting individuals. We truly believe that kasambahays, who help build stronger families and more resilient communities, deserve to be honored and given this kind of opportunity to be honored and given a chance to upskill.”

Through sustained recognition and meaningful support, JCI Senate Philippines and the Palawan Group continue to honor the service of kasambahays, strengthening families, empowering individuals, and fostering a culture of gratitude that transforms lives and communities across the Philippines.

For more information and updates, visit the official Facebook pages of JCI Kasambahay Kasambuhay Awards and PalawanPay.