Manulife Philippines Showcases Sustainability and Community Initiatives Through “Impact Agenda Adventure”

Manulife Philippines Showcases Sustainability and Community Initiatives Through “Impact Agenda Adventure”

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of the international financial services company Manulife, hosted global colleagues for its first-ever ‘Impact Agenda Adventure’ — a hands-on, six-day experience that underscored the tangible real-world impact of Manulife’s sustainability, financial literacy, and community initiatives across the Philippines.

Several colleagues from around the globe were selected to participate in the Adventure after submitting a personal story where they shared what Better means to them, connecting their own Better story to Manulife’s mission and purpose.

Manulife’s Impact Agenda focuses on three interconnected pillars of social and environmental commitments: empowering sustained health and well-being, driving inclusive economic opportunities, and accelerating a sustainable future. The ‘Impact Agenda Adventure’ showcased Manulife's deep commitment to its Impact Agenda in the Philippines.

“Manulife’s Impact Agenda is about taking collective action to accelerate change. It highlights our key social and environmental commitments,” said Sarah Chapman, Global Chief Sustainability Officer, Manulife. “Through our community investments in the Philippines, we hope to create a better business that contributes to a better world and share that with our colleagues globally.”

“The Impact Agenda Adventure is a powerful demonstration of how our community partnerships in the Philippines create real impact and uplift communities, showcasing our dedication to improving the lives of Filipinos,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “We are delighted to host our global colleagues as they witness firsthand the significant difference Manulife is making in our communities.”

Strengthening Partnerships with Community-based NGOs

The Impact Agenda Adventure highlighted the following initiatives:

Financial Literacy: Participants visited one of Manulife Philippines’ partner schools as part of the Peso Smart financial literacy program, in partnership with Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation, to observe how Manulife’s commitment to financial education is equipping young Filipinos with essential financial skills, such as saving, budgeting, and investing.

Agriculture, Sustained Health, and Poverty Alleviation: Participants toured the Gawad Kalinga (GK) headquarters in Mandaluyong City, where they learned about Manulife’s efforts to promote organic agriculture through the Community Food Farm program and poverty alleviation initiatives. More than 120 Filipino families have benefited from the program, which provides families with the opportunity to grow their own produce in their villages, allowing them to sell any surplus for additional income. Participants also engaged in a soap-making activity facilitated by Hands On Manila, a Manulife community investment partner that provides public school students access to daily nutritious meals, conducts health screenings for malnourished and undernourished children, and provides meal planning support through the help of licensed nutritionists.

Environmental Sustainability: Participants contributed to Manulife’s sustainability efforts through seedling preparation to aid in reforestation alongside Haribon Foundation. To date, Manulife has planted more than 21,000 native trees out of the committed 26,250 across Central and Southern Luzon provinces, helping accelerate a sustainable future for the country.

Helping Shape Filipino Communities for the Better

To learn more about Impact Agenda and Manulife’s commitment towards building a better business to better the world, visit manulife.com.ph. To watch the highlights of the recently concluded Impact Agenda Adventure, go to Manulife Philippines’ Facebook page.

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Health Enthusiasts and Experts Unite at the USANA Health Symposium

Health Enthusiasts and Experts Unite at the USANA Health Symposium

Monday, November 11, 2024

USANA Philippines, in its unwavering commitment to promote health and wellness, recently conducted its second health symposium held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, bringing together a distinguished lineup of experts in health, wellness, and nutrition who shared their insights and practical knowledge to enhance their audience’s well-being.

USANA Difference

Dr. Robert Sinnott, the Chief Scientific Officer of USANA, commenced the event by underscoring the company’s distinct standing within the health and wellness sector. He accentuated USANA’s dedication to scientific inquiry and innovation in developing nutritional products that substantially enhance health. This methodology serves to motivate individuals to pursue healthier lifestyles for themselves and their families.

USANA has received numerous international awards that testify to its ability to uphold quality standards and produce innovative products. These awards reflect the company's excellence and leadership in the wellness industry. According to Dr. Sinnott, such recognition promotes USANA's influence as well as its commitment to customer satisfaction.

This is evident in its many international awards, which demonstrate USANA's focus on quality. The awards come in different categories—top products and business practices, which include consumer trust. Each recognition is viewed as a success in positioning USANA as a global leader in the wellness industry, underscoring its excellence.

Dr. Sinnott noted that these accolades celebrate USANA's steadfast commitment to excellence in all areas. The recognition is the result of hard work by the entire team and an unwavering commitment by the company to high standards in product development and customer service. Through perpetual innovation and persistence in improvement, USANA meets consumer requirements and sets new standards for performance in the wellness industry.

In addition to its dedication to product quality, USANA strives to inspire healthier living on a larger scale. The company empowers individuals to take control of their well-being, thereby nurturing a healthier global community. USANA's mission is to effect enduring positive change, motivating individuals to embrace lifestyles that contribute to a brighter and healthier future.

Optimizing Women’s Health

“In a world where women's reproductive health often takes a back seat, it is crucial to advocate for policies and systems that prioritize comprehensive care,” Alpheratz Jose-Morano said.

In as much as women’s roles have evolved through the centuries, women's health needs to also evolve through different life stages—puberty, reproductive years, pregnancy, menopause, and aging. Within each phase, females may encounter. Hence, women are therefore advised to embrace these changes to take charge of their health.

Jose-Morano addressed vital topics such as access to comprehensive healthcare, education and awareness, nutrition and lifestyle choices, mental health support, fertility awareness, communication with healthcare providers, and community support to empower women to take charge of their health with confidence and knowledge.

Furthermore, regular gynecological check-ups are vital for early detection of health issues and overall reproductive health. Early detection and consistent care may help maintain a healthy body and overall outcomes. She said, personally every woman should ensure that physical health is a top priority by eating healthy and balanced diet, spending time for physical activity or regular exercise, and avoiding things that can be harmful such as cigarettes and alcohol.

This approach will not only benefit women but will also strengthen the community, making every resource accessible to all women who need to thrive. She said that delving into this creates a culture of awareness and support for all women.

Synergy in Nutrition

One of the topics discussed was synergy in nutrition. Mary Rose Del Rio, noted that this concept resonates with active men and women who face the demands of a busy lifestyle. She emphasizes the importance of viewing nutrition as a foundation for overall wellness, as the foods we consume can affect our mood, cognitive function, and emotional stability.

Mary Rose highlights how specific wellness packs can support these aspects of health. For instance, the Immunity Pack helps support digestive health and maintain the immune system, which is important for professionals navigating a demanding lifestyle. The Athlete Pack provides a powerful combination of products that support the body during strenuous training, while the Cardio Pack is tailored to maintain cardiovascular health, crucial for overall vitality. Additionally, the Basic Wellness Pack offers essential supplements that promote overall health and vitality, making it an excellent part of a daily routine for anyone focused on maintaining emotional resilience and mental stability.

She stresses the importance of balance in their diet, as well as nutrient synergy, quality nutrition, quality sleep, regular exercise, stress management, and hydration for maintaining heart health, athletic performance, immunity, and digestion, thus improving the quality of life for both men and women.

Foundations of Family Health

Rio Santiago expounded on the nutritional needs of women across different stages, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. She mentioned, Filipinos in general have a habit of not prioritizing their own health. In Filipino language, "isusubo nalang, ibibigay pa sa anak.” But there is good news, in these present times, more and more Filipinos are having this paradigm shift to prioritize self-care so that they can take care of others especially their families.

Santiago aims to empower women to make wise choices for their families and for themselves.

With Dr. Sinnott, Rio Santiago, Alpheratz Jose--Morano, and Ms. Del Rio, participants had an engaging session where they had the opportunity to ask questions. Additionally, the official launch of the 28-day Fat Loss Challenge 2024 was announced, concluding with exciting prizes through a raffle. All insights gained serve as valuable reminders of how informed health choices and the power of collective action are important. Indeed, we can inspire a healthier future, equipping everyone with the knowledge and resources necessary to thrive.

USANA's inaugural health symposium, focused on the importance of supplementation and wellness, first took place last March as a private event. Unlike that event, the recent symposium was open to the public, aiming to promote the significance of innovation and scientific research in overall wellness.

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Alipay+ mobile payment partner users can now scan and pay with interoperable NEPALPAY QR while visiting Nepal

Alipay+ mobile payment partner users can now scan and pay with interoperable NEPALPAY QR while visiting Nepal

More than 875,000 merchants in Nepal can seamlessly accept cross-border mobile payments from travelers from Asia and beyond

Nepal Clearing House Limited (NCHL), prominent operator driving majority of the digital payment systems in Nepal, and Ant International, a digital payment and financial technology leader, have jointly announced the launch of cross-border payments between NEPALPAY QR and Alipay+. The launch was announced at the global premier financial services platform, Singapore Fintech Festival 2024 by Mr. Edward Yue, General Manager of Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand,Ant International, and Mr.Neelesh Man Singh Pradhan, CEO of NCHL, in the presence of Mr. Vishrut Thapa, Chairman of NCHL, Mr. Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International, other representatives of both the organizations and various global dignitaries, delegates and attendees.

The launch will mark the dawn of cross-border QR based payments enabling the travelers from 10 countries and regions including the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR China, Macao SAR China, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Mongolia, Thailand, South Korea, and Italy to use their home payment app, including leading e-wallets and bank apps, to pay at more than 875,000 merchants associated with interoperable NEPALPAY QR network in Nepal.Alipay+ will enable its following partners for use in Nepal via NEPALPAY QR for a seamless cross-border payment experience: Alipay (Chinese mainland) AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR), Tinaba (Italy), MPay (Macao SAR), Touch ‘n Go eWallet and MyPB by Public Bank Berhad (Malaysia), Hipay (Mongolia), GCash (the Philippines), Changi Pay and OCBC Digital (Singapore), Naver Pay and Toss Pay (South Korea), and TrueMoney (Thailand).

Mr. Vishrut Thapa, Chairman, NCHL said: I am delighted to see one of the first QR payment linkage between Nepal and Alipay+ that has been rolled out within just six months since the MOU between both the partners was signed. This achievement is surely in line with the strategic plan of the Nepal Rastra Bank to enable our retail payment system for global payment linkages. It is also a testament to our close cooperation, commitment and collaboration between NCHL and Ant International to create seamless cross-border payment connectivity.

Neelesh Man Singh Pradhan, Chief Executive Officer, NCHL, said: “This is the first ever rollout announcement of cross-border payments for NEPALPAY QR and our interoperable QR.We are extremely delighted to showcase Nepal’s QR scheme and our retail payment system in the global arena. This partnership will help foster the tourism sector in Nepal and also expected to enable seamless cross-border digital payments for the travelers of various countries who choose Nepal as their preferred destination. This partnership between NCHL and Alipay+ for enabling merchant payments is a major milestone for both the entities for their commitment towards fostering global partnerships.”

Edward Yue, General Manager for Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Ant International said: “Nepal stands to benefit from tourism growth, given a growing preference for more sustainable and unique experiences, and together with NCHL, we’re proud to support joint innovation to benefit both local businesses and global consumers. Standardized QR paymentslike NEPALPAY QR are a visionary development towards more vibrant and inclusive growth– and with tourism expected to grow even further in the coming year, we’re excited to support our partners and merchants in Nepal and around the world towards a new future of travel.”

The launch follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NCHL and Ant International in May 2024.

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AIA Philippines strengthens presence in Visayas with new branch in Bacolod

AIA Philippines strengthens presence in Visayas with new branch in Bacolod

AIA Philippines Life and General Insurance Company, Inc. (AIA Philippines), formerly Philam Life, announced the inauguration of its newest branch in Bacolod City, further expanding its footprint in the Visayas region. This expands AIA Philippines' nationwide network and underscores the company's commitment to providing life and health protection to more Filipinos, helping them live healthier, longer, and better lives.

Located over 700 kilometers south of Manila, Bacolod City is known as the City of Smiles, and one of the rising economic powerhouses in the country. Recently named the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit in Provincial Highly Urbanized Cities Category, Bacolod represents a key market for AIA Philippines. As the city flourishes, so does the demand for comprehensive financial security and health insurance products.

"This new branch signifies our dedication to Bacolod’s growth and our mission to support Filipinos across Visayas," said AIA Philippines President and CEO Melita Teo. "As the needs of Filipinos evolve, AIA Philippines continues to innovate our suite of solutions and services to meet those needs. This branch equips and empowers our agency force in the city, helping individuals and families live healthier, longer, and better lives in a constantly changing world."

AIA’s Bacolod branch will contribute to local job creation by housing a team of highly trained agents who provide financial advice and support, guiding clients in selecting the right protection plans tailored to their unique needs -- contributing to the financial security of the city’s growing population.

With over 75 years of experience serving Filipinos through insurance protection, AIA Philippines remains committed to understanding evolving needs, and empowering individuals and families across the country. The company offers a wide range of insurance solutions that can help more Filipinos achieve their goals, protect themselves and their loved ones, and secure their future.

To know more about AIA Philippines, visit https://www.aia.com.ph

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Manulife and MCBL Launch Limited-offer Wealth Management Product Wealth Guarantee

Manulife and MCBL Launch Limited-offer Wealth Management Product Wealth Guarantee

Sunday, November 10, 2024

Manulife and Manulife China Bank Life (MCBL) announce the launch of Wealth Guarantee, a new single-payment insurance plan that aims to help customers grow their wealth in seven years through a comprehensive savings plan.

Wealth Guarantee is a medium-term wealth management product that grants policyholders yearly payouts of up to 4.5% over six years with 100% capital return. Wealth Guarantee also provides 125% life protection coverage, ensuring that policyholders are adequately protected during the plan’s seven-year term.

“At Manulife, we are dedicated to continuously providing our customers with products and services that fit their unique financial needs and goals. We recognize the hard work that Filipinos put in to secure their envisioned future, and we aim to be their trusted partner in achieving financial freedom. Our latest offering — Wealth Guarantee — is designed to bring customers one step closer to that dream,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

“Through Wealth Guarantee, we are giving Filipinos an investment plan option that offers competitive guaranteed returns and valuable life insurance protection, enabling them to diversify their portfolio and gain financial security,” Hora added.

Wealth Guarantee is suited for investors interested in a medium-term savings plan, and for those looking to build their legacies for future generations.

Wealth Guarantee will be available for a limited time beginning November 11, 2024, through Manulife financial advisors. It can also be availed through Manulife’s financial sales associates based in China Bank branches nationwide.

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Vista Land, Pioneering the Future of Real Estate in Mega Manila

Vista Land, Pioneering the Future of Real Estate in Mega Manila

Mega Manila continues its rapid expansion with the emergence of new metropolitan centers, offering promising real estate opportunities for both local buyers and international investors. Cities such as San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, Caloocan in Metro Manila, and Antipolo, Rizal are at the forefront of this transformation, driven by infrastructure projects, appreciating property values, and visionary master planned developments. Leading the charge in shaping this emerging urban landscape is Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, whose portfolio is redefining modern lifescapes and poised to become premier destinations.

Mega Manila, a hotbed for real estate investment

Mega Manila, a region that extends beyond the core of the National Capital Region, has become a focal point for real estate development. This headway is primarily fueled by ongoing improvements in regional transportation, including the construction of MRT Line 7, the extension of LRT Line 1, and the completion of new highways and bypass roads. These advancements have facilitated easier access to and from Metro Manila and surrounding areas and transformed peripheral cities into megacity hotspots, positioning them as attractive hubs for residential and commercial growth across Luzon.

For buyers and investors in San Jose del Monte, Caloocan, and Antipolo, these real estate options present compelling opportunities as they provide accessible points into the real estate market coupled with the potential for capital appreciation over time.

San Jose del Monte, Bulacan: Gateway to the North

Situated just north of Quezon City, San Jose del Monte is a vital point in the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 7, which links the city to North Avenue and North Luzon East Expressway (NLEE), connecting Commonwealth Avenue to Norzagaray. Additionally, the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) and the Southeast Metro Manila Expressway (C-6) will further enhance connectivity by linking Bulacan, Rizal, Manila, and Cavite, reducing traffic congestion in Metro Manila and offering more efficient routes.

One of the notable master planned developments in the city is Aspen, a 38-hectare mountain-town-inspired community that brings the elegance of alpine living to Bulacan. It features Colorado-themed architecture, and a host of lifestyle facilities, making it an ideal choice for professionals and growing families.

Aspen will have its own village brimming with energizing endeavors to choose from. Aspen Village is a five-hectare haven of retail, reverie, and relaxation—whether it be for culinary delights, athletic hobbies, or restorative pursuits.

Within the estate is Aspen Residences, a multi-tower complex that features a clubhouse, swimming pool, a play area, outdoor spaces for yoga and gym, as well as walking and jogging paths, encouraging residents to stay active and healthy.

Caloocan: Emerging Urban Center in Northern Metro Manila

Caloocan is stepping up from a capital outpost to becoming one of the most favorable locations for real estate investment in Metro Manila, driven by its connectivity to the rest of the metro. As a result, the city is becoming desirable for enterprises and residents seeking modern conveniences with premium real estate options.

Strategically situated in the growing northern corridor of Metro Manila, North Commons is designed as a master planned development featuring condominium properties, retail establishments, co-working spaces, and resort-style amenities. It also features CoLab, a state-of-the-art workspace that fosters productivity and collaboration.

The Suites in North Commons, a series of mid-rise residential towers, offers amenities catering to young professionals and families. One of its key highlights is Skyscapes, a rooftop space with 360-degree city views, giving residents a place to unwind and socialize.

Antipolo, Rizal: A Lifestyle and Cultural Hub in the East

Antipolo, the capital of Rizal, has evolved from a quaint hillside community into one of the fastest-growing cities in the Philippines. Major thoroughfares and upcoming infrastructure developments like the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 2 extension aim to enhance connectivity, positioning Antipolo as a key gateway between Metro Manila and the provinces.

Vista Land is crafting a master planned development intricately weaving art with everyday life. A portmanteau of the Spanish vida, which means life, and Italian arte, which means arts, the 152-hectare Vidarte combines Italian-inspired architecture with the artistic flair of the locale. Vidarte Residences is the ideal home for those seeking a life that sparks creativity and nurtures artistry. With its thoughtfully designed, low-density floor layouts, the development intersperses art pieces between studio and two-bedroom units, creating an environment that constantly inspires.

A Look at the Future of Master Planned Developments in Mega Manila

Vista Land’s shift towards large-scale master planned developments reflects its commitment to unique, premium, and sustainable lifescapes that align with the diverse needs of modern-day Filipinos, all while promoting limitless growth opportunities.

For more information on Vista Land master planned developments in Mega Manila, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaEstatesOfficial for news and offerings.

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Chevron leads Batangas shoreline cleanup, collecting 12 tons of trash in time for sea turtles’ nesting season

Chevron leads Batangas shoreline cleanup, collecting 12 tons of trash in time for sea turtles’ nesting season

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Chevron Philippines Inc, marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants, Chevron Holdings Incorporated (CHI), Chevron’s global shared services organization based in the country, joined forces again with several partner organizations and volunteers to collect 239 sacks of trash, equivalent to 12 tons, along the coastline of San Pascual, Batangas for the annual Chevron Coastal Cleanup.

A total of 206 volunteers showed up along the 5-kilometer shoreline of Chevron Batangas terminal to help make the area a safe nesting ground for vulnerable Olive Ridley sea turtles. Chevron has been hosting the local San Pascual cleanup since 2007 and recorded a stark increase in hatchlings within two years. In fact, the number grew from 23 hatchlings in 2022 to 768 in 2024.

Batangas Terminal Manager Ray Año said that Chevron has remained loyal to this annual tradition as part of its larger mission to promote environmental stewardship, “It’s our social responsibility, and we encourage all our employees to partake in whatever efforts they can to help the environment.”

Arlita Narag, CHI Corporate Affairs Manager, said that the volunteers value the opportunity to help keep the coastline clean. “The cleanup is also a good reminder to be responsible with waste disposal, as this can ensure that less waste ends up in the oceans and on shorelines where they negatively impact marine life,” she added.

Chevron recognizes it cannot do these annual cleanups alone. Hence, it has fostered meaningful partnerships with the local government and other private companies over the years and enlisted their members as cleanup volunteers.

Charlene Constantino of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Lipa said that the long-standing partnership of Chevron with the government for these coastal cleanups has truly benefited the Olive Ridley turtle population. She pointed out that this species’ unique trait is that the grown turtles return to their hatching grounds to lay their eggs. Hence, she invites more volunteers to join the future coastal cleanups to ensure that the species’ population will continue to grow.

Constantino added, “We’re looking forward na hindi lang sa libro makita ng next generations ang mga pawikan but for them to also have a firsthand encounter. [We look forward to the time when the next generations will not only see these turtles through a book but for them to also have a firsthand encounter.]”

The annual coastal cleanup is a testament to CPI’s continued commitment to making a safe habitat for sea creatures. Chevron also organizes regular tree-planting activities and hosts school seminars on practices such as waste segregation as part of its dedication to human safety, livelihood, and the environment.

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