More Than 300 Monde Nissin Runners Join SILAKBO 2025 to Champion Environment and Community Wellness

Thursday, May 22, 2025


In a powerful display of unity and commitment to sustainability, over 300 Monde Nissin employees took part in SILAKBO 2025 (Sikad-Lakad-Takbo), an annual fun run held at South Evozone, Nuvali. Now in its 17th year, the event united participants around the shared goal of environmental conservation and community empowerment through the theme “Our Power, Our Planet.”

Organized by the Save Silang Santa Rosa River (S3R2) Foundation in collaboration with the City Government of Santa Rosa, Laguna, and Nuvali, SILAKBO 2025 is the organization’s flagship advocacy campaign dedicated to protecting the Silang-Santa Rosa Sub-watershed and promoting sustainable development practices in the region.

As one of the key partners, Monde Nissin mobilized hundreds of its employees to join the initiative, bringing its advocacy to life and further reflecting its corporate mission of "Making Better Possible."

“The event isn’t just a fun run for us. It’s about our shared commitment to the planet and each other,” said Marie Perona, Senior Manager for People and Culture at Monde Nissin. “Monde Nissin believes in creating experiences that support our employees’ health and wellness, while also making a positive impact on the communities where we operate. This is what ‘Making Better Possible’ really means.”

Proceeds from the event will go directly towards S3R2’s efforts for watershed protection, water quality monitoring, and tree planting activities they hope to organize in line with their mission.


Beyond promoting fitness and camaraderie, SILAKBO is a platform for rallying the public and private sectors toward sustainable and inclusive action. The event underscores the powerful role that businesses such as Monde Nissin play in making a tangible difference for both people and the planet.
Read More

Boehringer Ingelheim receives Philippine Society of Nephrology Presidential Service Award for Kidney Disease Management for Primary Care Physicians

Sunday, May 18, 2025



In photo, from left to right: Pelagio L. Emmanuel Jr., MD, Immediate Past President of the Philippine Society of Nephrology; Ricky Solitaria, Senior Product Manager at Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc.; Seunghun Lee, Head of Marketing at Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc.; and Ricardo A. Francisco Jr., MD, President of the Philippine Society of Nephrology. Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. received the prestigious Presidential Service Award from the Philippine Society of Nephrology in recognition of its commitment to empowering primary care physicians through the Kidney Disease Management for Primary Care Physicians (KDM4PCP) program, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to diagnose, manage, and treat chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Philippines.


The Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN) awarded Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. the prestigious Presidential Service Award during the Annual Convention Opening Ceremony on April 24, 2025, recognizing the company’s significant contribution to the Kidney Disease Management for Primary Care Physicians (KDM4PCP) program. This initiative provides primary care physicians with essential knowledge and the latest evidence-based guidelines to screen, assess risk, and manage chronic kidney disease (CKD) early. 

A key highlight was the two-day pre-convention scientific session held on April 22-23, 2025, at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel. A KDM4PCP was also carried out in Zamboanga City as part of the recent World Kidney Day Celebration last March, focused on education and screening. This aims to further bridge healthcare gaps to underserved areas, empowering more healthcare professionals to deliver early and effective CKD care in communities that need it most. As CKD continues to impact millions of Filipinos, Boehringer Ingelheim remains committed to advancing healthcare through initiatives like KDM4PCP, focused on addressing the rising incidence of CKD and improving patient outcomes across the Philippines. To learn more about chronic kidney disease, visit ItStartsWithYou.com.ph.
Read More

Flavors of Samba: An Evening of Connections over Food and Music

EastWest hosted Flavors of Samba, an evening that brought together its valued clients for a celebration of culture, personal service, and shared experiences. Held at Shangri-La The Fort, the event offered a vibrant setting for meaningful connections and a glimpse into how the Bank continues to grow alongside its clients.

Jackie Fernandez EastWest President

Ms. Jackie Fernandez, EastWest President, welcomed guests by emphasizing that EastWest’s role goes beyond providing financial solutions. She shared that the evening was designed not just as a culinary showcase, but as a way to thank clients for their trust and to celebrate the relationships that have shaped the Bank’s journey.

The program featured celebrated Peruvian chef Arturo Melendrez, Head Chef of Samba, who treated the audience to a live ceviche demonstration, inviting guests onstage to roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves in the flavors of Latin America.

Dinner was a showcase of culinary craftsmanship led by Chef Carlo Huerta, Executive Sous Chef of Shangri-La The Fort. Drawing from his training at Le Cordon Bleu and deep Peruvian roots, Chef Carlo curated a multi-course dining experience that paired bold flavors with elegant presentation, set to the rhythm of live samba music.


From there, guests were whisked into cocktail hour, where Samba’s Beverage Manager Arlie Gole shared the secrets of crafting the perfect Pisco Sour, balancing technique, tradition, and storytelling in every pour.

Staying true to the evening’s spirit of ease and thoughtful experiences, Ms. Ivy Uy, Head of EastWest’s Branch Banking Group, shared updates on how EastWest is making everyday banking simpler and more convenient for clients. She also reintroduced the Bank’s refreshed online platforms, EasyWay for individuals and EasyBiz for businesses which have been receiving strong customer feedback. Uy closed by mentioning new partnerships and promotions designed to make financial transactions even more rewarding and seamless.

Rafael Algarra Jr

This was followed by remarks from Mr. Rafael Algarra Jr., Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, who spoke about the importance of personal relationships in EastWest’s approach. He emphasized the dedication of the Bank’s Store Managers and Priority Relationship Managers, noting that their care truly sets EastWest apart. Algarra also shared that EastWest was recently recognized as the Best Private Bank in the Philippines by Global Finance Magazine and awarded Best in Discretionary Portfolio Management by Euromoney Private Banking, saying that achievements like these continue to drive EastWest to offer the best in banking, service, and innovation.

As a token of appreciation, guests received cocktail shakers and personalized recipe booklets. These small touches captured the spirit of care and thoughtfulness that ran throughout the evening. The gathering built on the messages shared by EastWest’s leaders: the importance of creating enriching experiences, making everyday banking more seamless, and strengthening the relationships that define the Bank’s story. Held as part of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary, it served as a meaningful tribute to the milestones achieved and the future the Bank continues to shape with its clients.
Read More

L'Oréal Marks Next Chapter in the Philippines with New Headquarters, Champions Sustainable Growth and Community Empowerment


L’Oréal Philippines’ leaders together with local government, NGO and corporate partners in driving inclusive growth.

L’Oréal Philippines marked a new chapter in its 36-year journey in the country, underscoring the essential role of the beauty sector and the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and community empowerment. The company inaugurated its new, future-fit headquarters at The Podium West Tower in Ortigas, Pasig City, and gathered over 350 government partners, business leaders, advocates, students and beneficiaries for their contribution and partnership in its social, environmental, and innovation-led commitments. Located on the 35th floor of a LEED GOLD Certified building, the headquarters uses 100% renewable energy and is home to innovative spaces such as the L’Oréal Academy, livestream rooms, and ergonomic and tech-enabled office spaces designed to boost collaboration, wellbeing and sustainability.

Beauty Industry's Role in Societal and Economic Transformation

L’Oréal Philippines’ “Sense of Purpose” event put the spotlight on the beauty industry’s contribution to societal and economic transformation. From local manufacturing and distribution to beauty salons, e-commerce, and social commerce, the beauty sector fuels job creation, wellness, and empowerment—especially among women and youth.


“We are not just inaugurating a new office—we are renewing our commitment to act with purpose and lead with impact,” said Yassine Bakkari, Country Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines. “At L’Oréal, we believe that beauty is essential—to self-confidence, livelihood, sustainability, and progress. This headquarters is a testament of our commitment to providing “beauty for each”, empowering communities and championing sustainable business practices in the Philippines.”

Serving the Diverse Beauty Needs of Filipinos Through Beauty Tech

Philippines is a melting pot of beauty, drawing from a unique blend of indigenous traditions and cultural influences. The beauty standards and practices in the country continue to evolve and in this digital era, the celebration of natural beauty, diversity and representation has become more evident.

To bring the best of beauty innovations and experiences to Filipinos, L’Oréal draws from its “Beauty for Each” strategy powered by Beauty Tech, allowing for deeper personalization. At the “Sense of Purpose” event, the company showcased its Beauty Tech portfolio such as Lancôme Skin Screen that analyzes real skin condition in just 20 minutes, Kerastase K-Scan for scalp analysis and Kiehl’s Instant Skin Reader that uses a smart photo assessment technology to reveal personal skin concerns.

Rallying our Partners Towards a Circular Model

Recognizing the longstanding plastic pollution problem in the Philippines, L’Oréal has made bold strides to support the transition to a circular economy. In partnership with PCX Markets, L’Oreal has successfully recovered 875 metric tons of equivalent plastic waste since 2023, equal to the weight of ~150 jeepneys. Collected plastics are upcycled into outdoor furniture and PET flakes. Its Recycle for Rewards plastic collection initiative with Watsons also encourages consumers to return used beauty products in exchange for rewards.

Driving Inclusive Growth


Through programs like the Beauty For A Better Life’s Expert Hairdressing Training and E-Beauty Advisor Training, and Inclusive Sourcing program, L’Oréal has supported close to 3,000 Filipinos living in vulnerable conditions with beauty and digital education and livelihood opportunities.

“Our goal is to empower 10,000 Filipinos, especially women, by 2030 through our Beauty For A Better Life and Inclusive Sourcing programs, creating more livelihood opportunities in the beauty industry,” added Bakkari. “Our commitment is fueled by our partners who share the same passion in driving inclusive growth. We thank the local governments of Quezon City, Makati, Manila, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Pateros, Antipolo and Taguig, our corporate partners Watsons and TikTok, and our NGO partners SPARK! Philippines, Philippine Business for Social Progress (PSBP) and PCX Markets for their unwavering support over the years.”

L'Oreal believes in the transformative power of beauty to act as a catalyst for change in the Philippines. It continues to work with partners to fuel its mission: to create beauty that moves the Philippines.
Read More

Monde Nissin Empowers Farmers with Launch of 5 Ground Up Stores Across the Philippines

Wednesday, May 14, 2025


In a bold move to strengthen rural economies and uplift the lives of Filipino farmers, Monde Nissin Corporation has launched five ground-up agricultural cooperatives across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao as part of its landmark 45@45 Sari-Sari Store Enablement Program.

The initiative, part of Monde Nissin’s 45th anniversary celebration, aims to build a more inclusive and sustainable supply chain by directly sourcing raw materials from local producers. The cooperatives—focused on cacao (South Cotabato), sugar (Bago City, Negros Occidental), garlic (Bacarra, Ilocos Norte), shallots (Nansuagao, Ilocos Sur), and eggs (Davao City)—serve as both suppliers and community-based distributors, creating much-needed livelihood opportunities in underserved regions.


“Malaki ang naitulong ng programang ito para sa mga farmers tulad namin, sapagkat nabigyan kami ng karagdagang kabuhayan. Maraming salamat sa Monde Nissin,” said Mency Tolentino, Chairperson of the Bacarra Zanjera Irrigators Multipurpose Cooperative in Ilocos Norte.

(This program has been a great help to us farmers, as it’s given us additional livelihood. Much thanks to Monde Nissin.)

These cooperatives are not just supply sources—they are also launching cooperative-managed stores that serve as primary distribution hubs in their communities, improving market access and minimizing logistical burdens for rural farmers.


“Tinupad ng Monde Nissin ang matagal na naming pangarap na magkaroon ng malaking tindahan dito sa Bago. Hindi na kailangang lumayo ng aming mga farmer sapagkat kami na mismo ang magiging distributor ng mga produkto dito sa aming sakahan, dagdag pa dito ang dagdag income para sa aming mga farmer,” shared Noel Benjamin, Chairman of the Hacienderos Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Negros Occidental.

(Monde Nissin has helped fulfill our long-standing dream of having a large store here in Bago. Now, since we’re distributing our farms’ own products, we no longer have to travel too far, and we even get additional income.)

The 45@45 program embodies Monde Nissin’s corporate aspiration of “Making Better Possible”—a philosophy that champions not just business innovation but also the well-being of people and planet. By fostering partnerships with agricultural communities and enabling them to become key players in the value chain, Monde Nissin is redefining what inclusive growth looks like in the modern food industry.

“The point of this program is to uplift Filipino farmers and strengthen the foundations of our food system,” said Atty. Olive Misa, Corporate and Government Affairs Head of Monde Nissin. “We’re proud to celebrate our 45 years of serving Filipino families by investing in their future.”

As Monde Nissin continues its journey of purpose-driven growth, the 45@45 initiative stands as a testament to how companies can empower communities and pave the way for a more resilient and equitable future, one cooperative at a time.
Read More

AIA Philippines Wins Gold At The Reader's Digest Trusted Brands Awards

Tuesday, May 13, 2025


Leading insurer recognized for consumer trust in life insurance category

AIA Philippines Life and General Insurance Company Inc. (AIA Philippines), formerly Philam Life and now the local arm of Hong Kong-based insurer AIA, has been awarded Gold in the prestigious Life Insurance category at the 27th Annual Reader's Digest Trusted Brands Awards, affirming its position as one of the most trusted life insurance providers in the Philippines.

The recognition comes as Reader's Digest unveiled its 2025 Trusted Brands survey results, which celebrates companies that have earned the highest levels of consumer confidence through unwavering reliability, quality, and integrity.

The awards ceremony, held at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Hotel last April 4, brought together top marketing professionals and business leaders to recognize brands that have distinguished themselves in the minds of Filipino consumers.

“In today's market, trust must be earned through action, so this recognition is a powerful affirmation of our steadfast commitment to AIA’s purpose of helping more people live Healthier, Longer and Better Lives,” said Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, AIA Philippines. “At the heart of everything we do is the trust that our customers place in us, so we thank Reader’s Digest for recognizing our efforts to deliver solutions that provide financial security, and health and life protection for our customers, as well as programs that support the well-being of the communities we serve.”

The Gold Award indicates that AIA Philippines achieved outstanding results based on consumer perception. This is the 20th year that AIA Philippines has been recognized as a Trusted Brand by Reader’s Digest, with a total of 11 platinum and 9 gold awards.

This year's Reader's Digest Trusted Brands Awards covers over 45 categories across a diverse range of brands, products, and services. The independent survey was conducted by leading market research agency Catalyst Research, which polled a representative sample of 8,000 individuals across the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

AIA Philippines' Gold Award in the Life Insurance category reinforces its commitment to building strong customer relationships founded on trust and appreciation of consumer loyalty.
Read More

Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. unveils new Weatherbond Quartz Series

Friday, May 9, 2025


Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. today unveiled its latest breakthrough in exterior wall protection -- the Weatherbond Quartz series – promising to set a new standard in shielding homes and buildings from harsh weather conditions.

The much-anticipated launch marked a major milestone in Nippon Paint’s ongoing commitment to the Filipino market, reinforcing its dedication to understanding and addressing the distinct needs of Filipino homes.

The event was attended by key distributors who play a vital role in bringing Nippon Paint’s solutions to homeowners, and trusted industry partners who understand the importance of quality and durability in construction.

Chen Lee Siong

Taking the stage, Mr. Chen Lee Siong, the General Manager of Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. shared his enthusiasm on the brand’s newest offering.

"For us at Nippon Paint, this isn't just about adding another product to our shelves. It’s about understanding the heart of every Filipino home. It’s about recognizing that the walls of our houses hold much more than just structure; they hold memories, values, and dreams. And in a country like the Philippines, with its unpredictable and often harsh weather, we felt a responsibility to develop something special – something that offers unwavering protection, resilience, and a layer of trust that every homeowner can depend on. That’s what the Weatherbond Quartz series is all about."

The new Quartz Technology elevates exterior wall protection to a whole new level. This premium, pure acrylic-based paint is expertly formulated to create a robust and resilient film, offering exceptional defense against relentless rain, damaging UV rays, and the persistent issue of dirt accumulation. Its inherent stability also provides superior resistance against the alkaline nature of walls and potential acidic elements in the atmosphere, ensuring a finish that not only looks great but also lasts longer.

The Weatherbond Quartz series brings a powerful synergy of advanced technologies working together as follows:

Quartz technology: The backbone of its strength, creating a tough and hard paint film built to endure.

Keep clean technology: A smart innovation that actively resists dirt, alkaline substances, and efflorescence, keeping walls looking fresh and clean.

Sunblock technology: A crucial feature for the Philippine climate, significantly reducing surface temperatures by up to 5°C, even under the scorching sun.

Fibra technology (featured in Weatherbond Ultimate): Taking durability even further by reinforcing the paint film, creating a resilient shield against cracks, peeling, and general wear and tear.

Micro block technology: The ultimate defense against unsightly and damaging fungus and algae growth, while also resisting dirt pick-up.

Color care technology: Ensuring that the vibrant colours you choose for your home remain rich and true for years to come, maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Mr. Chen addressed the unique needs of Filipino homeowners emphasizing that “Nippon poured its expertise into creating a product that goes beyond mere surface protection – something that can truly stand the test of time, the challenges of our climate, and the everyday wear and tear of life. It's about building resilience, engineering strength, and ultimately, providing peace of mind."

Beyond its core technologies, the Weatherbond series, with the Quartz variant leading the charge, also delivers excellent UV protection for long-lasting colour, strong defense against acid rain, enhanced resistance to alkali and efflorescence, and a solid 8-year protection guarantee. Certain colours within the range even boast a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI), contributing to a more energy-efficient home. Furthermore, its recognition as a Green Choice product underscores Nippon Paint’s commitment to environmentally responsible solutions.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Chen conveyed his deep-seated belief in the product. "Bringing Weatherbond Quartz to the Philippine market fills us with immense pride. We truly believe in the positive impact it will have on every home it graces. From the meticulous science behind its formulation to the sheer strength it provides to your walls, Weatherbond Quartz is a top-tier solution, offering the kind of protection every Filipino home deserves."


The new Weatherbond Quartz series is now available at selected Modern Trade stores. Weatherbond Quartz price starts at PhP 442.00 for 1L, PhP 1,692.00 for 5L and PhP 4,821.00 for 15L.

Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. is now inviting homeowners, contractors, architects, and all those involved in building and maintaining structures to experience the next level of exterior wall protection with the Weatherbond Quartz series. With its powerful promise of “Tatag na di Matitinag. Lakas na Hindi Kukupas” – unyielding strength, enduring power – Nippon Paint is setting a new benchmark for durability and enduring beauty in the Philippine paint industry.
Read More
...