Vine Café Lounge reopens its doors on May 8, 2025, in the heart of Salcedo Village, Makati—just in time to celebrate a year of slow mornings, meaningful conversations, and beautiful connections, both old and new.
Brought to life by facts & fables, the marketing agency known for crafting elegant, story-driven brand experiences, the reopening marks a significant milestone for this cozy, sunlit café tucked inside Boxed Blossoms—a floral artistry studio beloved for its bespoke bouquets and styling.
To mark the occasion, Vine Café Lounge is launching its newest experience: Bouquet & Brew Workshops, in collaboration with Boxed Blossoms. Starting May 10 and held every weekend, guests are invited to create their own fresh floral arrangements while savoring artisanal coffee—an offering designed to spark creativity, connection, and the joy of slow living.
Special Launch Offers:
Bask in Bloom Brunch – Enjoy a complimentary floral cocktail with any brunch main dish, available Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Coffee & Camellias Weekday Treat – Buy any specialty coffee and get 10% off a petite floral arrangement—the perfect midweek lift.
Along with these seasonal experiences, Vine also unveils a refreshed coffee menu, now featuring a mix of bold brews and inventive specialty drinks for both traditionalists and adventurers. And for those who love indulgent midday pauses, the Afternoon Tea Set debuts with a curated mix of sweet and savory treats—offered for a limited time at an exclusive PHP 2,500 introductory price.
More than just a café, Vine Café Lounge is a sanctuary for the modern romantic: the kind who journals over lattes, fills their homes with florals, and relishes in life’s gentler rhythms. Whether you’re toasting a milestone, reconnecting with a friend, or seeking a quiet moment between errands, Vine welcomes you with warmth and charm.
The menu echoes this spirit—Filipino breakfast staples that taste like home, elegant desserts like éclairs and macarons, and crowd-favorite delights like the truffle matcha popcorn—a playful twist that lingers sweetly on the palate.
“At Vine Café Lounge, we believe that offering premium coffee is not enough,” shared Jem Tinsay, founder of Vine Café Lounge. “We are honored to share this space with our community once again, and we can’t wait to brew new memories with every guest who walks through our doors.”
Starting May 8, step into Vine Café Lounge—where blooms meet brews, laughter flows freely, and every sip tells a story. Here’s to new beginnings, one pour-over, one petal, and one conversation at a time.
Makati, Philippines – Isla LPG Corporation, the country’s leading LPG solutions provider, has partnered with Yokohama Tire Philippines, Inc. (YTPI) to advance sustainable and cost-efficient energy practices. The collaboration aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve operational efficiency by transitioning from diesel to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
This strategic partnership brings together the strengths of both companies to champion sustainability within their industries. For YTPI, the move aligns with its ongoing efforts to innovate responsibly—not only in product manufacturing but in its overall corporate operations.
Driving Sustainability Forward
During the recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, YTPI President and CEO Atsushi Funayama emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Isla LPG Corp. marks a major step toward greater sustainability and operational efficiency. Transitioning from a diesel-powered boiler to LPG is a crucial move in our decarbonization journey.”
By adopting LPG, YTPI expects to reduce emissions without compromising productivity. The switch is part of its broader sustainability program focused on environmental stewardship, energy conservation, and responsible waste management.
Isla LPG Corp.’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jose Antonio “Tonito” Gonzalez, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative. “We’ve long advocated for LPG as a cleaner alternative fuel. As more businesses recognize its benefits, we are thrilled to support YTPI in reaching its environmental goals through this energy transition.”
Reliable Energy Partner
YTPI’s operations rely on an uninterrupted fuel supply. Isla LPG Corp.’s robust distribution network ensures consistent LPG availability, reducing the risk of operational disruptions. The company is also set to provide the necessary infrastructure and technical support for YTPI’s LPG integration.
Tomoaki Asai, Chief Executive Officer of Isla Petroleum and Gas Corp., affirmed their full commitment to the partnership. “We are deeply grateful to Mr. Funayama and the YTPI team for making this collaboration possible. Guided by the Sanpo Yoshi philosophy—good for the seller, good for the buyer, and good for society—we see this partnership as one that will benefit our companies and the broader community.”
A Shared Vision for the Future
The collaboration underscores a shared vision: sustainable business growth anchored on responsible energy use. Isla LPG Corp. brings more than just fuel—it delivers tailored energy solutions designed to help partners like YTPI reduce environmental impact while enhancing operational output.
Jose Antonio “Banjo” Castillo, Chief Operating Officer of Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation, highlighted this alignment: “YTPI has found the right partner in us. Our reputation for safety, reliability, and integrity makes us the trusted choice for companies ready to shift to cleaner energy. Our goal is to help our partners boost production volumes while minimizing their carbon footprint.”
This partnership is more than a business arrangement—it’s a significant milestone in both companies’ commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
As the global movement toward smoke-free alternatives gains momentum, nicotine pouches are emerging as a standout option for adult smokers seeking a tobacco-free lifestyle. Designed to deliver nicotine without combustion, smoke, or vapor, these discreet pouches offer a cleaner and more socially conscious alternative to traditional cigarettes and vaping devices.
One of the leading names in this category is ZYN, a brand produced by Philip Morris. Packaged in sleek round tins and requiring no electronics or charging, ZYN pouches provide a convenient, mess-free experience for legal-age nicotine users. Since its launch in the Philippines in 2023, the brand has rapidly expanded its footprint—now available in over 1,500 stores nationwide.
This milestone was marked by the ZYN Summer Experience, a vibrant three-day event held in La Union from May 1 to 3. Designed for legal-age users, the event showcased the freedom and ease that ZYN pouches offer, set against the backdrop of one of the country’s most beloved beach destinations. The weekend featured morning coffee sessions and stunning sunset activities, reflecting the versatility of ZYN for different lifestyles and routines.
“ZYN is committed to offering smoke-free alternatives to legal-age nicotine users as we embrace the summer season,” said Donica Pile, Brand Manager for ZYN at PMFTC Inc. “We’re excited to have expanded our presence in key areas like Cebu, Sta. Rosa, and Davao, making it easier for more Filipinos to enjoy nicotine on their own terms.”
Backed by innovation and science, ZYN aligns with the broader goal of harm reduction—offering adults access to nicotine without the harmful effects of burning tobacco. As more users look for cleaner, smoke-free options, ZYN is poised to continue leading the way in this evolving landscape.
In a collective step towards environmental stewardship and sustainable learning, Holcim Philippines—through its Circular Explorer initiative with One Earth One Ocean—has forged a partnership between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST).
(Participants of TOT including the following representatives seated in front from L-R: Mc Lawrence Bensa, Public Affairs Manager Holcim Philippines, Inc., Caroline Labrague, Project Development Officer II External Partnership Service DepEd-Central, Nathalie Inductivo, Project Coordinator – Circular Explorer Holcim, Franz Rana Partnerships and Business Development Lead ASSIST)
The collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), aiming to introduce circular economy principles in public schools, beginning with pilot institutions across Metro Manila. The partnership will deploy specially designed educational materials such as a teacher’s manual, a comic book, and a high school workbook to help young learners transition from a linear to a circular mindset.
Christine Bellen, Project Manager of the Circular Explorer, emphasized the initiative’s value “This partnership with ASSIST and the Circular Explorer Project aligns with DepEd’s commitment to integrating sustainability education into our schools. By fostering environmental consciousness among our learners, we are equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to champion a circular economy.”
DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching, Gina Gonong, also acknowledged the initiative’s alignment with the MATATAG Agenda in a previously published message of support:
“I commend the Circular Explorer project for its efforts in developing a comprehensive array of educational resources, ranging from comic books and teacher’s manuals to activity workbooks and posters. These materials align with the DepEd’s vision of fostering a resilient and child-centered nation. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to making significant strides in addressing the challenges facing basic education.”
(Master Trainer Kendrick Mico Faronilo MSc. during one of the sessions in the TOT)
The collaboration was further strengthened through a full-day Training of Teachers (TOT) program, led by Kendrick Faronilo, MSc, President and Founder of the Philippine Association of Environmental Science Students. The rollout is expected to engage over 3,000 students, teachers, and non-teaching personnel from Manila, Pasay, Parañaque, and Las Piñas, empowering them to become future champions of sustainability.
Turn your next project into your next vacation! With Stanley Tools’ Build & Explore Raffle Promo, every build brings you closer to the adventure of a lifetime. Buy Stanley Hand Tools and get the chance to win dream vacations — just by doing what you love!
Here’s how to join the adventure: ✔️ Spend a minimum of ₱500 on Stanley Hand Tools at any participating hardware store nationwide. ✔️ Completely fill out your raffle stub. ✔️ Drop your entry in the designated raffle box at the store.
Promo period: Now until August 31, 2025 Raffle draw:September 12, 2025 at the Black & Decker Head Office, Mandaluyong City, under DTI supervision. Winners will be notified via registered mail, email, and SMS.
Epic Prizes Await! 🏆 1st Prize: 3-night trip for two to the scenic city of Da Nang, Vietnam 🥈 2nd Prize: 2-night escape for two to tranquil Apo Island, Dumaguete 🥉 3rd Prize: 2-night tropical getaway for two to Panglao, Bohol 🔧 20 Consolation Prizes: A Stanley Hand Tool Set worth ₱3,000 each — the perfect upgrade for any DIYer!
What You Need to Know:
Grand prize winners will receive a travel certificate from a third-party travel agency covering roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodation.
Travel certificates are valid for 6 months (international) and 1 year (domestic).
Winners outside Metro Manila will receive their prizes via partner hardware stores — with shipping costs covered by Black & Decker Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
Prizes must be claimed within 60 days of notification by presenting your winning raffle stub and a valid government-issued ID. Unclaimed prizes will be forfeited with DTI approval.
Eligibility Reminder: Employees of Black & Decker Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., participating outlets, and their relatives up to the second degree are not eligible to join.
Build with Stanley — and let your tools take you places!
Century Properties Group’s first-home brand, PHirst, has reached key milestones that reinforce its strong operational foundation and unwavering commitment to making homeownership more accessible to Filipino families. The company continues to deliver thoughtfully designed communities that are sustainable, inclusive, and built to last.
Efficient Construction Through Innovation and Collaboration
As of April 2025, PHirst has completed approximately 15,000 housing units across its developments nationwide. This achievement reflects the efficiency of PHirst’s Technical Operations Division, working in close coordination with a network of suppliers, contractors, and technology partners. Notably, PHirst has maintained a strategic alliance with Megawide Construction Corporation, particularly its Precast and Construction Solutions unit.
Further streamlining its build process, PHirst recently launched its in-house construction arm, PHirst-Build, which integrates Pre-Cast and Cast-in-Place Divisions. This initiative supports the company’s goal of delivering homes on time without compromising quality.
Currently, PHirst-Build supports projects in Batangas, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Bacolod, with further expansions planned to meet the growing demand for diverse housing options across the country.
Move-In Ready Homes Designed for Everyday Living
PHirst is on track to turn over more than 10,000 fully finished homes by mid-2025, providing comfort and convenience to first-time homeowners. Each unit is delivered complete with tiled floors, room partitions, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, a perimeter fence, and a gate. Basic utilities such as electricity and water are readily available, enabling homeowners to move in without delay.
To accommodate varying household needs, PHirst also offers suggested home expansion layouts, giving residents the flexibility to grow and adapt their space over time.
Ensuring Livable Communities with Reliable Utilities
To enhance the residential experience, PHirst established its own water services management group, PH2O, which oversees the operation and maintenance of water infrastructure across its communities. PH2O currently serves PHirst subdivisions in Batulao (Batangas), Bay (Laguna), Tayabas (Quezon), and Balanga (Bataan), with more sites in development. This initiative underscores PHirst’s commitment to delivering dependable and sustainable living environments.
Ricky M. Celis, President of PHirst, emphasized the significance of these milestones:
“At PHirst, we are proud to see our vision for high-quality, accessible homes become reality for hardworking Filipino families. With in-house construction and utility services, we’re not just delivering houses—we’re building well-rounded communities that support elevated lifestyles.”
Expanding Reach with the PHirst Brand Promise
PHirst currently operates 27 active projects across Luzon and the Visayas, with developments in strategic areas including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Bacolod. Guided by its brand pillars—Complete Homes, Conceptive Amenities, Connected Essentials, and a Convenient Buying Experience—PHirst has established itself as a trusted name for thoughtfully planned neighborhoods tailored to modern Filipino living.
PHirst is the first-home residential arm of Century Properties Group. For more information on its developments and upcoming launches, visit www.century-phirst.com.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
