PetMarra Launches Yoghurt-Based Wet Food Collection for Cats and Dogs

A new line of pet food combines gut-boosting probiotics with delicious flavors to support overall wellness

Manila, Philippines — PetMarra, a trusted name in science-backed pet nutrition, proudly announces the launch of its innovative Yoghurt Wet Food Collection for cats and dogs. This new range is designed to provide a tasty and convenient way to support digestive health through the power of yoghurt-based probiotics.

Just like humans, pets thrive when their gut is balanced. A healthy digestive system boosts nutrient absorption, strengthens immune defenses, and helps maintain high energy levels. PetMarra’s new line addresses these needs by combining premium ingredients with functional benefits that support overall pet wellness.

A First in Functional Pet Food

Yoghurt-based wet food represents a growing trend in the pet nutrition industry, merging palatability with health benefits. PetMarra’s Yoghurt Wet Food Collection is specially formulated with probiotics to:

  • Promote healthy digestion and nutrient absorption
  • Support gut health for improved immunity and vitality
  • Deliver irresistible flavors that pets love

Available in a variety of flavors to suit every palate:

  • For Cats: Yoghurt Tuna, Yoghurt Salmon, Yoghurt Chicken
  • For Dogs: Yoghurt Beef, Yoghurt Lamb, Yoghurt Chicken & Liver
Safe, Effective, and Pet-Approved

All PetMarra products are made with pet-safe, high-quality ingredients. The yoghurt used in the collection is free from harmful additives like xylitol, and the probiotic strains are chosen specifically for pets’ digestive systems.

Pet parents are advised to introduce new food gradually to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any temporary digestive changes such as gas or soft stools.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

PetMarra products meet the highest standards for pet food safety and nutrition:

  • BAI-Registered: Complies with Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) safety and manufacturing regulations
  • AAFCO-Standard Nutrition: Exceeds guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for complete and balanced pet meals
Where Gut Health Meets Great Taste

With the Yoghurt Wet Food Collection, PetMarra offers pet parents a wholesome, flavorful way to support their companions’ digestive health. Each meal is crafted to deliver the ideal balance of nutrition and taste—because a happy tummy leads to a happy, energetic, and healthier pet.

Empowering Future Healthcare Leaders: Internationally-Vetted Health Science and Nursing Programs in South Luzon

The healthcare sector has profoundly impacted millions, especially in the past five years. As the world worked to recover from the pandemic, the urgency to strengthen health systems and build resilient communities became increasingly clear. This effort, beyond adopting medical innovations, requires a workforce of highly skilled medical professionals.

According to the report “Ageing Well? Policies to Support Older Nurses at Work” by the International Council of Nurses, the International Centre on Nurse Migration, and CGFNS International, Inc., 10.6 million nurses will be needed by 2030 to maintain efficient health services.

Along with nurses, other medical professionals such as physicians, medical technologists, phlebotomists, physical therapists, radiologists, and pharmacists are also in high demand. In fact, a report by recruitment platform Indeed states that these professionals will be in greater demand by 2025, due to the aging population in the U.S.

To help address this growing need, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) has partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to offer internationally-recognized programs in Nursing, Medical Technology, Pharmacy, and Physical Therapy. These new programs complement the Colleges’ existing Health Science offerings, such as Biology and Psychology, all conducted in collaboration with ASU, one of the most innovative universities in the U.S.

Mapúa MCL’s Nursing and Health Sciences programs provide students with exclusive access to ASU’s learning resources, including materials from its content repositories and Global Signature Courses (GSC) through the Cintana Network, a global university alliance that shares resources and expertise. Students also earn badges for their e-portfolio upon completing ASU masterclasses.

Classes are conducted through FLUX (Flexible Learning Ubiquitous eXperience), a blend of face-to-face and online learning designed to enhance the educational experience. This includes collaboration with other institutions in the Cintana Alliance, Mapúa University, and Mapúa MCL, providing students with valuable insights and global perspectives.

“Our curriculum is built on rigorous scientific inquiry, applying principles to real-world health challenges. We emphasize practical skills in patient care, focusing on communication, assessment, and intervention. By bridging scientific discovery with compassionate care, we cultivate individuals dedicated to creating a healthier future for all,” explained Maribel Songsong, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mapúa MCL.

VP Songsong highlighted that students have opportunities to explore various health determinants, such as social, environmental, and behavioral factors, and are trained to design and implement effective public health initiatives. Through an internationally-vetted curriculum, students acquire competencies that meet global industry standards and exceed the minimum requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education. These skills empower students to address health disparities, promote wellness, and foster healthier communities.

Beyond lectures, students’ competencies are honed through hands-on training, simulation activities, clinical internships, fieldwork, community engagement, and workshops led by industry professionals. Additionally, they participate in pre-employment seminars, training, and career fairs.

This holistic, learner-centered approach ensures that students gain both academic knowledge and essential future skills, such as creativity, critical thinking, innovation, leadership, digital literacy, self-management, and interpersonal communication.

A prime example of this approach is the new undergraduate Nursing program, powered by ASU. Through the collaboration with ASU and the Cintana Alliance, nursing students benefit from high-quality resources and innovative learning models delivered by ASU-trained Mapúa MCL faculty. Students also participate in clinical rotations that expose them to a variety of patients and medical conditions, along with research collaborations across Cintana partner universities.

Students receive regular mentoring, career services, and mental health support to help them succeed academically. They also take part in technologically advanced global classrooms, which enable virtual interactions and collaborations with students from other international institutions.

Health Sciences students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including computer software for simulations, psychometric assessment tools for personal and professional development, interactive biotechnology tools like Biopac and Labster, and clinical simulation facilities designed to mimic real healthcare environments such as Emergency Rooms and Intensive Care Units. The campus also has a central supply room with lab equipment for clinical skills training and utilizes generative AI tools to enhance learning.

Clinical rotations and practicum opportunities are extensive. Psychology students currently complete their practicum at five clinics, including Sanatio Psychological Services and Autism Society of the Philippines. Nursing students rotate at UniHealth Southwoods Hospital, Healthway Qualimed Hospital, and the Cabuyao City Health Office, with options for summer overseas training at Cintana partner universities in Southeast Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the USA.

“What we offer our Nursing and Health Sciences students are not just technical skills to start a career but the global knowledge and experiences that empower them to become leaders and innovators in healthcare. Through real-world experiences, transformative learning, and interschool collaboration, we aim to develop the next generation of healthcare leaders,” added VP Songsong.

PCEI Gathers Energy Leaders for RE³ Conference 2025 – Luzon on May 16–17

The Philippine Center for Energy, Inc. (PCEI) is set to host the RE³ Conference 2025 – Luzon on May 16–17, 2025, at the Best Western Hotel, Clark, Pampanga. This two-day event will bring together the country’s leading energy professionals, sustainability advocates, and government agencies to explore the future of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Electrification.

RE³—short for Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Electrification—will feature key representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Climate Change Commission (CCC), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and the Construction Manpower Development Foundation (CMDF). The conference aims to foster collaboration among policymakers, innovators, and industry leaders to advance the country’s sustainable energy transition.

“This is more than just a conversation about saving energy,” says PCEI. “It’s about transforming how the Philippines powers its homes, industries, and communities. Through RE³, we are calling on professionals, stakeholders, and advocates to take an active role in building a smarter, greener energy future.”

Participants will gain access to insights from thought leaders, explore emerging technologies, and connect with decision-makers across the energy value chain.

For inquiries or participation opportunities, contact 0917 710 4321 or email info@ph-energy.org.

UP, Unilab Foundation Partner to Develop PhilHealth Supplemental Benefits Package

Seated from L to R: Dr. Michael Tee, Chancellor, University of the Philippines Manila; Atty. Jose Maria Ochave, Executive Director, Unilab Foundation; and Dr. Hilton Lam, Director, Institute of Health Policy and Development Studies, University of the Philippines Manila

Standing from L to R:Manolet Montinola, member steering committee Unilab Center for Health Policy; Dr. Jovencio Villaflor, Medical Director, Dagupan Villaflor Doctors Hospital; Dr. Guido David, Professor, Mathematics and Data Science of UP Diliman; Dr. Rizaldy Capulong, Professor, Computer Science, University of the Philippines Diliman; Dr. Enrique Ona, Chairman, Unilab
Center for Health Policy Advisory Council and former Department of Health Secretary; Ms. Maribeth Adsuara, Executive Assistant III, Office of the Executive Vice-President and Chief Operations Officer of PhilHealth; Dr. Maria Franchina Ruby, Medical Specialist III, PhilHealth; Ms. Leilani Mae S. Formadero, Acting Senior Manager, International and Local Engagement Department, PhilHealth; Dr. Leizel Lagrada, Associate Professor, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila;; Ruben A. Basa, Program Director, Unilab Center for Health Policy; and Dr. Vicente Bernardo, Consultant, Dagupan Villaflor Doctors Hospital; Dr. Jaime Caro, Professor, Computer Science, University of the Philippines Diliman

In a significant move to advance Universal Health Care (UHC) in the Philippines, the Unilab Foundation, Inc. and the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to jointly study and develop a supplemental benefits package for PhilHealth members. This initiative marks one of the most comprehensive collaborations to date between the private sector and the national university on UHC policy.

Titled “PhilHealth Benefits Enhancement: Assessing the Implementation of Supplemental Insurance Coverage for PhilHealth Members,” the study will be the first of its kind within the UP System to engage multiple departments. It is funded by the Unilab Center for Health Policy (UCHP), the policy thinks tank of the Unilab Foundation, and includes academic partners from UP Manila, UP Diliman, and West Visayas State University.

The research focuses on a long-overdue provision under Section 11 of the UHC Law, which authorizes PhilHealth to establish and manage a supplemental benefit fund. Although enacted in 2019, this provision has seen little progress—something this project aims to change.

“This MOA is more than a formal agreement—it reflects a shared vision and deep commitment,” said Atty. Jose Maria A. Ochave, Executive Director of the Unilab Foundation. “Change happens through collaboration, not from the sidelines. Our role is to demonstrate that what we propose can work in the real world.”

Ochave emphasized the government’s crucial role in implementing large-scale reforms, noting that private organizations and civil society must pilot practical, scalable solutions that public agencies can later adopt. “Only government has the resources and reach to drive systemic change. Our job is to show them it can be done.”

Responding to the Call for Local Health Reform

This effort directly responds to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa’s call for local stakeholders to actively contribute to national health priorities. In recent statements, Herbosa stressed that health financing should no longer rely solely on international aid.

UCHP has taken this message to heart. Program Director Ruben “John” Basa explained that the center was designed as a non-commercial platform to foster partnerships between public and private institutions in pursuit of impactful health reforms.

“To revive momentum for UHC, we needed a space for joint action. That’s why the Unilab Foundation created UCHP,” Basa said.

The study builds on UCHP’s recent 30-year review of the Philippine National Health Accounts (PNHA), which found that PhilHealth’s share of total health expenditure dropped to just 10.2% in 2023—well below target. Meanwhile, out-of-pocket spending remains high at 45%, far exceeding the government’s goal of reducing it to 30%.

“This project addresses that imbalance,” Basa noted. “The supplemental benefit fund is already within PhilHealth’s mandate. Our goal is to help design a package that’s evidence-based and practical to implement.”

Ruben A. Basa, Program Director, Unilab Center for Health Policy

UP Leads Policy-Driven Academic Collaboration

UP Manila is taking a leadership role in the initiative, which Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee described as a model for “Academe-Government-Industry engagement.” He emphasized that UP’s role extends beyond education into public service and policymaking.

“This is how we ensure UP’s medical and scientific expertise reaches even the most underserved communities,” Dr. Tee said. “This study is built for real-world impact—something we can defend and champion to truly expand healthcare access.”

He also shared that the idea was born from a brainstorming session earlier this year. “We measure success by implementability. If it doesn’t improve lives or work in practice, then it’s not worth doing.”

PhilHealth Prepares for Rollout

As both a partner and potential implementer of the project’s outputs, PhilHealth has expressed full support. Dr. Maria Franchina Ruby, Medical Specialist under the Office of the Executive Vice President and COO, said the study aligns with PhilHealth’s roadmap to fulfill its UHC mandate.

“This research will inform policy and operations as we work toward fulfilling Section 11 of the UHC Law,” Ruby stated.

She shared that the agency aims to roll out the supplemental benefits program within the year. “Once the research concludes, we’re targeting to publish policy guidelines within three months.”

The package under review aims to reach Filipinos typically excluded from commercial insurance offerings. “This will directly benefit those who can’t afford private insurance, helping to ease the financial burden of healthcare,” she added.

Data-Driven, Multisectoral Reform

Leading the research is Dr. Hilton Lam of the UP Manila National Institutes of Health, with contributions from PhilHealth senior leadership. The academic team includes Dr. Rizaldy Capulong and Dr. Jaime Caro of UP Diliman, Dr. Guido David of the UP Institute of Mathematics, and Dr. Joselito Villaruz of West Visayas State University.

Over six months, the team will develop a supplemental benefits design, costing model, and implementation strategy. These outputs will be submitted to PhilHealth and the Department of Health for review and adoption.

The initiative complements UCHP’s work on other national health priorities, including the One Hospital Command Center and research on health financing and performance-based payments.

“We only commit to projects we can finish. And when we commit, we go all the way,” Ochave said.

A Shared Commitment to Lasting Change

The MOA signing was attended by representatives from Unilab Foundation, UP Manila, and PhilHealth. Signatories included Atty. Ochave, Dr. Tee, and Dr. Lam. PhilHealth was represented by Dr. Ruby, Ms. Maribeth Adsuara, and Senior Manager Lei Formadero. Among the witnesses were Dr. Jovencio Villaflor, Dr. Bernie Bernardo, and members of the UP and UCHP advisory teams.

As the study begins, it is being closely watched as a potential model for how the academe, private sector, and government can work together to create meaningful, scalable reforms.

“Honor and excellence only matter when used to serve,” Dr. Tee concluded. “And this is how we serve—through policy, science, and partnerships.”

Gen4Juan Launches: A Faith-Driven Movement For Social Impact

Pasay City, Philippines – A new movement grounded in faith, service, and nation-building officially launches today. Gen4Juan, a non-government organization dedicated to driving positive change through engagement in the Church, Environment, Youth, and Elderly sectors, makes its public debut with a strong call to action.

At the forefront of this initiative are Chairman Peter Eric Pardo and Vice Chairman Adrian Reyes, whose shared vision of multi-sectoral transformation fuels Gen4Juan’s mission.

“Gen4Juan is a generational call to action,” said Chairman Pardo. “Each ‘Juan’ has a part to play in restoring dignity, nurturing values, and working for the common good—especially in challenging times.”

Built on four core pillars, Gen4Juan aims to empower a new generation of KaJuans through:

  • Church – Deepening faith-based involvement in community upliftment
  • Environment – Advocating for stewardship and sustainable living
  • Young Juans – Equipping youth with leadership, mentorship, and advocacy platforms
  • Elder Juans – Providing care and companionship to senior citizens

“This is an intergenerational movement—by the people, for the people,” said Vice Chairman Reyes. “It bridges the wisdom of our elders with the passion of today’s youth to build a future anchored in faith and service.”

[L-R] Fr. Reggie Porlucas of National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians Parish in Parañaque, Fr. Marlon Eleosida of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Carolina, Naga City, Mons. Claro Matt Garcia of Sta. Clara de Montefalco in Pasay City, and Fr. Pipo Bautista of Mary Immaculate Parish in Parañaque City and Salawag, Cavite receive kitchenwares and cookwares from Hiren Mirchandani of Ramesh Trading Corporation in the ceremonial handover with Gen4Juan’s Chairperson Peter Eric Pardo and Vice Chairperson Adrian Joseph Reyes.

According to Marketing Director Gel Gomez, upcoming programs include environmental clean-ups, youth leadership summits, intergenerational mentorship forums, and parish-based outreach initiatives for the elderly. These will roll out across key cities and provinces in collaboration with churches, civic groups, schools, and LGUs.

One of Gen4Juan’s flagship efforts, #SaveThySoles, aims to provide around 400 pairs of black leader shoes for youth involved in school and church services. Beneficiary parishes include:

  • National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians Parish, Parañaque
  • Mary Immaculate Parish, Parañaque
  • Sta. Clara de Montefalco Parish, Pasay
  • Mary Immaculate Parish, Salawag, Dasmariñas, Cavite
  • Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, Carolina, Naga

The launch was graced by key partners and supporters including H.E. Melvin Castelino, Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines; Dr. Cecilio Pedro of Lamoiyan Corporation; Mr. Joseph and Jill Ang of Worldbex Services International; SM Cares’ Engr. Bien Mateo, and members of the clergy.

“Gen4Juan is not a one-person effort—it’s a shared mission,” the group emphasized. “It’s about giving not just our time and talents, but our hearts—our own five loaves and two fish—and trusting God to multiply them.”

Board of Directors:

  • Peter Eric Pardo, Chairperson & Executive Director
  • Adrian Joseph Reyes, CPA, Vice Chairman
  • Michelle Talavera Pardo, Corporate Secretary
  • Maila De Leon, Program Director
  • Mildred Laygo, Fundraising & Partnership Director
  • Ross Ann Dalida, Creatives & Content Director
  • Gabrielle Salvador, Digital & Social Media Director
  • Gel Gomez and Che Tolosa, Marketing Directors

Board of Trustees: Daryl Aloya, Robert A. Guillermo, Leonora Mangahas Mosqueda, Maria Patricia Prahinog, Prof. John Carlo Perez, RSW, LPT, MSSW, and Xenia Grace D. Lim.

Collaborators include: Jomar B. Soriano, Renalyn A. Gomez, Mary Ann G. Guillermo, Ella “Mickey” Alfaro, Jaisa P. Candelaria-Abante, Isabella Generol, Gwenn Serino, Marcial J. Samarista III, Roger John Smith, Ysabella Minette Manzanilla, and Hailey Zariya Cardenas (“Little Juan”).

Together, Gen4Juan transforms passion into purpose—uniting generations, uplifting lives, and inspiring faith in action.

From Our Kitchen to Mom’s Heart: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

This Mother’s Day, let love take center stage as Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City come together to honor the extraordinary women in our lives. Under the heartfelt themes “Cherished MOMents” and “Styled to Dine,” families are invited to celebrate with memorable staycation offers and festive dining experiences designed to delight, indulge, and appreciate moms in style.

Her Love, My Story
From May 1 to 31, 2025, treat the queen of your heart to a restful escape with the “Cherished MOMents” Mother’s Day Room Retreat. Starting at PHP 6,888 nett, this package includes:

  • An overnight stay
  • Buffet breakfast for two adults and two kids (15 years old and below) at Food Exchange Manila
  • A pre-arranged bouquet from Belle Fleurs
  • 20% off at all dining outlets (excl. In-Room Dining, Indulge Gelato, Che Buono)
  • 20% off all à la carte spa treatments at In Balance Spa
  • Early check-in from 10 AM and late check-out until 2 PM (subject to availability)

Whether as a surprise gift or a well-planned retreat, “Cherished MOMents” is crafted to make moms feel treasured. Book via bit.ly/CherishedMOMents. Terms apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-222283, Series of 2025.

A Buffet Fit for a Queen
On May 11, 2025, honor mom with a grand buffet celebration at Food Exchange Manila. Choose between a premium lunch or dinner buffet filled with curated dishes and decadent desserts in an elegant setting:

  • Lunch: 12:00 NN – 3:00 PM | Dinner: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • PHP 3,288 nett per person
  • Special rate: PHP 2,088 nett via My Novotel Boutique

Reserve now at my.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com or call (+632) 8990 7888 | Email: H7090@accor.com

A Mother’s Day Runway Feast
On May 11, ibis Styles Manila invites families to “Styled to Dine: A Mother’s Day Runway Feast” at strEATs—a vibrant Asian buffet with fun extras like:

  • A DIY mimosa bar
  • Cupcake decorating station
  • Magazine-style photo booth
  • Live entertainment and giveaways
  • A heartwarming “Runway for Mom” spotlight

Buffet Rates:

  • Lunch: PHP 1,599 nett (12:00 NN – 2:00 PM)
  • Dinner: PHP 1,799 nett (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

Mom’s Little Escape Staycation
From May 1 to 31, 2025, give mom the break she deserves with weekday and weekend room packages starting at:

  • PHP 2,799 nett (Standard) | PHP 7,799 nett (Family Room) on weekdays
  • PHP 2,999 nett | PHP 7,999 nett on weekends
    Includes breakfast for two adults and one child (Standard) or two kids (Family), plus:
  • 20% off weekend buffets at strEATs
  • 10% off at Le Bistro, The Edge Skyview Bar, and strEATs Coworking Café

Celebrate with flair, flavor, and heartfelt appreciation at ibis Styles. Reserve now: Call +632 8248 8444 | Email: HB133@accor.com

Terms apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-223180, Series of 2025.

Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series Returns in 2025 with an Expanded Lineup

Singapore — Following the resounding success of last year’s events, The Luxury Group by Marriott International proudly announces the return of its acclaimed Luxury Dining Series for 2025. This year, the series expands its footprint from six to seven destinations across the Asia Pacific, offering a rich culinary journey that reimagines traditional flavors and revives forgotten ingredients.

Running from July through September, the 2025 edition is themed Forgotten Flavors, inspired by insights from the Future of Food 2025 report. The series will showcase a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation, spotlighting time-honored cooking methods and overlooked ingredients through bold, modern interpretations.

Seven prestigious properties will host the experience:

  • The St. Regis Osaka, Japan (July 11–13)
  • JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, South Korea (July 17–20)
  • JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, India (July 31–August 3)
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, Australia (August 15–17)
  • The St. Regis Singapore (August 29–31)
  • The St. Regis Jakarta, Indonesia (September 11–13)
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, Thailand (September 25–28)

World-class chefs and mixologists from Marriott International’s global network will collaborate to present an extraordinary dining experience. Guests can expect immersive menus that celebrate the culinary past while embracing present-day creativity—each dish a tribute to the flavors and techniques of yesteryear, reimagined for today’s gourmet palate.

Further details, including featured chefs and bespoke menus, will be announced soon. For more information, visit the official Luxury Dining Series website.

Bell-Kenz Pharma and TV5’s Alagang Kapatid Foundation Seal Partnership to Improve the Lives of Filipinos

Bell-Kenz Pharma, Inc. has officially launched a meaningful collaboration with TV5’s Alagang Kapatid Foundation to support and expand healthcare and medical outreach programs for the country’s most vulnerable communities.

Staying true to its mission of making Filipino lives better, Bell-Kenz Pharma brings its online health advocacy segment, Real Talk with Dok, to the Alagang Kapatid platform. Conceptualized by Barangay Bell-Kenz, the program features timely and relevant health topics discussed by trusted medical experts.

Dr. James Cayetano, Director of Bell-Kenz Pharma, expressed optimism about the partnership:
“We at Bell-Kenz Pharma are grateful for the opportunity to reach underserved communities. Through this collaboration with Alagang Kapatid Foundation, we continue our mission to improve the lives of our fellow Filipinos.”

Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and PR Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma, added,
“This partnership strengthens Bell-Kenz’s initiatives in closing healthcare gaps by sharing accurate and helpful medical information that can truly make a difference.”

Media5 Chief Operating Officer Mr. Dino Laurena joined Ms. Menchie Silvestre, Executive Director of Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc., in expressing their appreciation for the collaboration.
“This is more than just a partnership—it’s a life-saving alliance,” said Ms. Silvestre. “Bell-Kenz Pharma and Alagang Kapatid Foundation serve as a bridge for people who urgently need medical assistance. We are truly grateful for their support.”

Together, Bell-Kenz Pharma and Alagang Kapatid Foundation are stronger in their shared commitment to making lives better for Filipinos.

To learn more about Bell-Kenz Pharma, visit https://www.bell-kenz.net, follow their YouTube channel @Bell-KenzPharma, and TikTok @bellkenzpharma.

Nestlé Philippines, Sunfood Marketing Inc. Partner to Advance Sustainable Coffee Farming

Nestlé Philippines has entered a strategic partnership with Sunfood Marketing Inc., a subsidiary of the SF Group of Companies (SFGC), to promote sustainable and profitable coffee farming in Northern Cotabato. The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing.

Under the partnership, Sunfood Marketing will lead efforts to expand Robusta coffee cultivation in the region. Leveraging its role in SFGC’s agritech ecosystem—from farm inputs to food production—Sunfood will apply advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to improve farming efficiency and productivity.

This marks Nestlé’s first partnership of its kind, aligning with its Nescafé Plan, which supports Filipino smallholder coffee farmers through knowledge-sharing, technology transfer, and training in regenerative agriculture and sustainable business practices. The plan aims to boost yields and income while enhancing resilience to climate change and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

Nestlé Philippines will provide technical support and capacity-building programs as part of the partnership. The initiative is also a key step in Nestlé’s broader commitment to responsible sourcing and its roadmap to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The partnership aims to strengthen the local agricultural value chain, create economic opportunities, and build a robust Robusta coffee farming network in Mindanao. Through Sunfood’s Corporate Growership Program, the collaboration will help scale up local coffee production and increase Nestlé’s sourcing of Robusta green coffee beans, supporting national food security and the long-term growth of the Philippine coffee industry.

Aboitiz Foods Leadership Conference 2025: Empowering Leaders for Shared Success

Aboitiz Foods, the food and agribusiness arm of the Aboitiz Group, held its second Leadership Conference on March 18–19, 2025, gathering over 80 key leaders from eight Asia Pacific countries. With the theme “Shared Goals. Shared Values. Shared Wins,” the event celebrated the company’s 2024 achievements and set the tone for the year ahead, anchored on its value of the year: “Pursue Shared Wins.”

Tristan Aboitiz, President and CEO of Aboitiz Foods, highlighted key milestones that shaped 2024. Among these were the successful corporate rebranding—bringing Pilmico and Gold Coin together under the Aboitiz Foods name—and a values-driven organizational workshop conducted across eight countries. These workshops reinforced the company’s core values of Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Responsibility, cultivating a high-performance culture.

Tristan Aboitiz, President and CEO of Aboitiz Foods, encourages leaders to build stronger connections across departments and countries and to lead by example to their team members.

These efforts translated into strong financial results: a net income after tax (NIAT) of $60.2 million—marking a 315% increase from the previous year’s $14.5 million. This growth was driven by stabilizing commodity prices, optimized feed and flour formulations, and strategic pricing. The completion of two new Gold Coin feed mills in Vietnam and China also expanded the company’s regional capabilities.

“This kind of progress doesn’t happen overnight—it’s the result of hard work, especially in 2022 and 2023,” said Aboitiz. “One of the biggest reasons we succeeded in 2024 was because we started operating more as one team.”

Looking ahead, Aboitiz Foods aims to sustain its momentum by remaining resilient and adaptable. The two-day conference served as a catalyst for leaders to align strategies and foster collaboration—continuing to Pursue Shared Wins in 2025 and beyond.