La Mesa Ecopark celebrates World Environment Day with youth #ECOmmitments for climate action

Anchored on this year’s theme, #NowForClimate, youth leaders and representatives from various youth organizations gathered at the La Mesa Ecopark to engage in a series of targeted eco-activities. The event successfully highlighted the vital role of the younger generation as future climate champions equipped to address escalating environmental challenges.

In honor of World Environment Day 2026, the Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark recently hosted an event focused on youth-led environmental advocacy. 

Based on this year's theme, #NowForClimate, youth leaders and representatives from various youth organizations gathered at the La Mesa Ecopark to participate in a series of targeted eco-activities. The event successfully highlighted the importance of the younger generation as future climate champions prepared to face escalating environmental challenges.

The celebration began with a special screening of the inspiring documentary "The Foresters: A Story of Climate Keepers," organized in collaboration with MAD Travel. The film, which chronicled real-life stories of grassroots communities and young people working together to protect nature, inspired participants to take an active role in conservation and cultural community outreach. 

Following the screening, the youth participants put their inspiration into action by writing down their individual #ECOmmitments. These pledges outlined specific, actionable steps they will take to practice responsible environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility in achieving a sustainable future.

The youth leaders then took a guided #BiodiverCity Walk through the La Mesa Ecopark, which is a rich sanctuary of diverse tree species. The trail included an educational visit to the Butterfly Garden, which provided a closer look at the fragile, thriving ecosystems. 

To leave a lasting, positive impact on the watershed, a ceremonial tree planting event was held to highlight the long-term benefits of reforestation. Youth participants planted two seedlings of Mangkono (Xanthostemon verdugonianus), a rare tropical hardwood endemic to the Philippines also known as Philippine Ironwood. The Malampaya Foundation donated the ecologically valuable seedlings, which represent strong cross-sectoral collaboration in environmental conservation.

The celebration concluded with a hands-on seed extraction activity. Having marveled at the towering Kupang (Parkia timoriana) trees earlier on their BiodiverCity Walk, participants enjoyed extracting seeds from their pods. The collected seeds will be nurtured at Bahay Punlaan and eventually spread throughout the La Mesa Ecopark and the adjacent La Mesa Nature Reserve. 

The World Environment Day event is a preview of more eco-activities at the La Mesa Ecopark, which will open Phase 2 in July. The public can expect more spaces for groups and families to enjoy leisure activities, teambuilding, and connecting with nature.

In celebration of World Environment Day 2026, Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark recently hosted a gathering dedicated to youth-led environmental advocacy. 

During this World Environment Day celebration, the Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark successfully demonstrated the wave of collective action fueled by youth passion, demonstrating that the next generation holds the key to creating a sustainable, climate-resistant world.

Easy, Affordable Baon Ideas Await at SM Hypermarket Baliwag

Baon made better! Pack your lunch with Purefoods favorites available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag. These are quick, delicious, and ready to fuel every school and work.

It is not necessary to spend a lot of time or money to prepare delicious and nutritious baon. Whether it's for students leaving for school or professionals heading to work, SM Hypermarket Baliwag has everything a family needs to prepare delicious meals while staying on budget.

Make every recess sweeter with Nissin favorites at SM Hypermarket Baliwag! Grab Wafer Choco and Eggnog Cookies for a delicious baon treat.

Whether it's nutritious sandwiches, ready-to-cook meals, wholesome snacks, or refreshing drinks, shoppers can find everything they need in one location while saving money with everyday low prices and exciting promotions.

Baon win, every time! Purefoods favorites bring crispy goodness to every lunch break. Grab yours today at SM Hypermarket Baliwag!

Cheesy baon? Yes, please! Elevate every sandwich and burger with Emborg Cheese Slices available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag.

Make every school and work day more enjoyable with practical baon ideas that are simple to prepare, filling, and reasonably priced—only at SM Hypermarket Baliwag, where quality, convenience, and savings come together—All For You.

What If You Bring More? AirAsia Philippines Lets You Check In as Many Bags as You Need

As more travelers return home with extra pasalubong, souvenirs, and shopping finds, AirAsia Philippines reminds guests that they can check in as many bags as they need, with no weight limit, as long as the total weight falls within their purchased or complimentary baggage allowance.

Guests can purchase checked baggage allowances ranging from 20kg to 60kg, providing flexibility for both short and long trips. For safety reasons, however, each individual checked bag must not weigh more than 32kg, even if a higher baggage allowance has been purchased.

However, if you have purchased more than 30 kg of baggage allowance, please note that each bag you will be checking-in must follow the following requirements:

Several essential mobility items may be checked in free of charge, including:

• Baby strollers, buggies, and prams
• Wheelchairs and mobility devices
• Crutches and walking frames

RE-BOOKED TO AVOID OTHER FEES

Guests who purchase checked baggage before departure can save up to Php 919 compared to airport rates. Checked baggage can be purchased conveniently via the AirAsia MOVE app, the AirAsia website, or Ask Bo.

BUYING ADDITIONAL BAGGAGE AFTER BOOKING

Guests who wish to add or upgrade their checked baggage allowance after completing their booking may conveniently do so through the Manage My Booking feature or by chatting with Ask Bo up to two hours before their scheduled departure. Checked baggage may also be added at the airport check-in counter, subject to applicable airport baggage rates.

To purchase or upgrade checked baggage through Ask Bo:

• Chat with Ask Bo on the AirAsia MOVE app or website.
• Type "Purchase Add-ons (Seats, Baggage, Meals)".
• Select "Baggage" and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase.

CABIN BAGGAGE

For cabin baggage, guests are entitled to two carry-on items—one cabin bag and one personal item like a laptop bag or a hand bag—with a combined weight of up to 7kg. Those who need additional cabin space may opt for Xtra Carry-On, which increases the cabin baggage allowance to 14kg when pre-booked.

As travelers continue to embrace spontaneous shopping, longer vacations, and meaningful trips home, AirAsia Philippines' flexible baggage policy ensures guests can bring home more of what matters—without worrying about the number of bags they check in.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

NOTE: The Communications and Public Affairs Group kindly requests for all media partners to follow the correct typography for the brand – for airline (AirAsia) spelled as one word with both As capitalized; and for non-airline (AirAsia MOVE) with MOVE capitalized.. 

For more information, feel free to contact:

AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Team: paa_commsandpublicaffairs1@airasia.com

Pru Life UK marks 30 years with double win at the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards

Pru Life UK Head of Brand & Integrated Marketing Communications Kathryn Cajucom (middle) and Manager for Communications and Public Relations Lalaine Almazan (1st from right) accepted the recognitions at the Insurance Asia Awards.

Pru Life UK celebrates its 30th anniversary in the Philippines, marking another milestone in its mission to protect Filipino families and provide meaningful financial security to more communities. 

Pru Life UK won two prestigious awards at the 2026 Insurance Asia Awards: International Life Insurer of the Year - Philippines, its sixth consecutive title, and New Takaful Insurance Product of the Year - Philippines for PRUTerm Lindungi, the country's first Shariah-compliant Family Takaful product.

These awards demonstrate Pru Life UK's ongoing leadership in customer-centric growth, innovation, and financial inclusion. Pru Life UK has expanded to meet the needs of Filipinos since its inception in 1996, with over 35,000 agents and a nationwide network of over 200 branches, business centers, and general agency offices. 

 

In FY2025, the company maintained a strong performance, earning ₱10.0 billion in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent and a market-leading 13% share of new business sales. Premium income increased to ₱52.8 billion, ranking second in the industry with a 13% market share. Pru Life UK currently insures close to two million lives and serves nearly one million policyholders.

“Winning International Life Insurer of the Year for the sixth year in a row is both an honour and a responsibility. As we celebrate 30 years in the Philippines, this recognition inspires us to continue making protection more accessible, relevant, and meaningful for Filipinos. Our work continues, with Filipinos at the heart of everything we do.” ~Kathryn Cajucom, Vice President for Branding and Integrated Marketing Communications at Pru Life UK

Expanding protection for more Filipinos

Pru Life UK's New Takaful Insurance Product of the Year - Philippines award recognizes the company's pioneering role in introducing Islamic insurance to the Philippines. 

Pru Life UK has been raising awareness and trust in Takaful since becoming the Philippines' first licensed operator, through education sessions, grassroots engagement, and consultations with Islamic religious leaders, media, financial advisers, and communities, particularly in Mindanao. 

The focus of this effort is PRUTerm Lindungi, the Philippines' first Shariah-compliant Family Takaful product. It is intended to help underserved communities and reflects Pru Life UK's commitment to inclusive protection that takes into account diverse needs, values, and ways of life.

Looking ahead with purpose

Pru Life UK continues to provide solutions that meet its customers where they are. In 2025, it will launch traditional products that provide protection and payouts, as well as wealth solutions, to supplement its strong investment-linked insurance portfolio. 

Beyond its products, the company continues to support financial education, climate resilience, health, and disaster preparedness through Prudence Foundation initiatives such as Adopt-a-Madrasah and Cha-Ching.  

Pru Life UK remains committed to its mission of being partners for every life and protectors for every future, as it celebrates its third decade in the Philippines.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 35,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of FY 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Notes: 

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year  

 

Please use "Pru Life UK" when referring to the company.

About Prudence Foundation 

Established in 2011 in Hong Kong, Prudence Foundation is the community investment and philanthropic arm of Prudential plc. 

The Foundation builds financial wellbeing, and climate and health resilience for underserved Asian and African communities. We are committed to sustainable, long-term solutions that empower individuals and communities to make informed financial decisions, access affordable financial products, as well as be more prepared and protected against climate related health risks. We actively engage in public-private partnerships, collaborate with governments, NGOs, communities and other private sector entities to build collective efforts for lasting change. To date, our programmes are implemented across 16 markets in Asia and Africa, reaching millions of people. 

 

For more information: www.prudencefoundation.com 

Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom. 

Ajinomoto Philippines supports 1st NDAP Food & Nutripreneurship Summit

In photo from left: Lawrence Kyle Dela Cruz, RND Program Chair, NDAP National Board Director for Food Service; APC RND Bea Menorca-De Jesus; APC Director for Marketing, Sales and Public Relations, Mika Makino, APC Food Service Division Corporate Chef Manager, Chef Glenn Dino; Shaylendra Andres, RND - NDAP National Vice President; Maria Eloisa Villaraza, RND, MSCN – NDAP Immediate Past President

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) recently attended the first Nutritionist-Dietitians' Association of the Philippines (NDAP) Food & Nutripreneurship (FUN) Summit, which took place on July 3-4, 2026. The event brought together nutrition professionals, industry leaders, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs from across the country. 

The summit, titled “Fueling Innovation in Food Service by Uniting Nutrition Advocates and Entrepreneurs and Nurturing Sustainable Ventures for Health and Wellness,” provided a forum for participants to exchange ideas, discuss emerging trends and issues, and strengthen ties with other advocates committed to shaping the future of nutrition and food service in the Philippines.

Bea Menorca-de Jesus, APC's registered nutritionist-dietitian, and Glen Dino, Food Service Division Corporate Chef Manager, led a lunch symposium emphasizing the importance of increasing vegetable consumption as one of the most effective strategies for improving human and environmental health. 

Chef Dino demonstrated quick and fun vegetable recipes such as Chopsuey Salad with CaterServe® Sesame Dressing and Mango Shrimp Salad with AJI-MAYO® Professional Style Mayonnaise. Both used umami or savory flavors to enhance the "linamnam" factor of vegetable dishes, making them tastier and more appealing.

“The reality we’re seeing from DOST-FNRI data is that there is a gap between nutrition and sustainability in the country now. While millions of Filipinos are not meeting their daily energy needs, household plate waste continues to rise, and vegetables are among the most wasted. Vegetables should be at the center of this conversation because increasing consumption supports nutritional goals such as providing essential vitamins and minerals, and fiber. At the same time, it contributes to sustainability as plant-based foods have lower environmental footprint.” ~Bea Menorca-de Jesus, APC’s Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) continues to strengthen its partnership with the Nutritionist-Dietitians' Association of the Philippines (NDAP) in advancing nutrition, health, and sustainability initiatives. Shown are NDAP Adviser Zenaida Velasco (center), flanked by Mika Makino, APC Director for Marketing, Sales and Public Relations (left), and Bea Menorca-de Jesus, RND, APC Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian (right)

This message is also central to APC's flagship nutritional campaign, I Love Veggie-Licious®. Since 2023, APC has been encouraging Filipinos to eat more vegetables by visiting schools and communities across the country to provide practical nutrition education and cooking demonstrations. The initiative aims to provide families, particularly mothers, with the knowledge and skills necessary to incorporate vegetables into their daily meals and develop the habit of eating healthier, in line with APC's corporate slogan, "Eat Well, Live Well."

“NDAP recognizes the value of multisectoral participation in promoting safe, sustainable, and evidence-based public health nutrition education for Filipinos. This event provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and practices among nutrition professionals, businesses, food service organizations, and other stakeholders in support of shared public health and nutrition goals.” ~Lawrence Kyle Dela Cruz, RND Program Chair, NDAP National Board Director for Food Service

I Love Veggie-Licious® is one of the major ways APC continues to contribute to the Ajinomoto Group’s 2030 outcomes — help extend the healthy life expectancy of one billion people and to reduce its environmental impact by 50%. 

Likewise, APC continues to support organizations like NDAP, that share the company’s commitment to promoting nutrition, health and sustainability. 

The Iconic Blue Magic Opens at SM Center Sangandaan

For many Filipinos, Blue Magic has long been associated with significant life events. From teddy bears and novelty gifts to keepsakes for birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries, the homegrown brand has spent nearly four decades helping customers commemorate special occasions.

Caloocan shoppers now have easier access to their favorite gift items thanks to the opening of Blue Magic's newest store on the ground floor of SM Center Sangandaan, which is conveniently located near Watsons.

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Blue Magic was founded in 1985 and has since grown to become one of the country's most well-known gift retailers, offering plush toys, novelty items, home décor, and gift options for every occasion. Its enduring appeal stems from its ability to combine affordable finds with sentimental value, making it a popular shopping destination for generations of Filipinos.

The new store offers a diverse range of gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, holidays, and everyday occasions. Whether customers want a simple token of appreciation or a meaningful present, the store has gift ideas for every budget and occasion.

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Customers can also receive additional benefits through the Blue-tiful Rewards program. Shoppers with purchase receipts totaling ₱5,000 until December 31, 2026 can qualify for VIP status and receive 10% off select regular-priced items for a year.

Blue Magic also has a pop-up store on the mall's 5th Floor for shoppers who are closer to SM City Grand Central, making it another convenient location to find thoughtful gifts.

With the opening of its newest branch at your favorite SM Center Sangandaan, as well as its presence at SM City Grand Central, Blue Magic continues to make its signature gift selections more accessible to shoppers in northern Metro Manila.

Tanduay Raises the Bar for Philippine Rums Anew with Two Gold Wins in the U.S.

Tanduay's position as a leading producer of premium rums was strengthened when two of its products received Gold Medals at the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards, which took place on June 10 in Chicago, USA.

Tanduay Double Rum and Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years both received 95 points in a contest to determine how well spirits perform in real-world hospitality settings.

“The awards Tanduay has received throughout the years show that Philippine rums can truly compete with the world’s best. And what makes our latest wins at the Bar-tender Spirits Awards even more special is that it was judged by a panel composed ex-clusively of bartenders and hospitality professionals. These are the people who know what spirits truly shine from shelf to glass. These international awards reflect Tanduay’s commitment to Filipino craftsmanship and innovation, and they inspire us to continue showcasing the best of the Philippines on the global stage.” ~Roy Kristoffer Sumang, Tanduay Interna-tional Business Development Manager

Two of Tanduay’s Finest Premium Rums

Tanduay Double Rum is a blend of 16 and 5 year-old rums that are aged an additional two years in ex-bourbon barrels. This aging process enhances the award-winning rum's flavor harmony from start to finish, making it an excellent sipping rum.

According to the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards’ tasting notes, Tanduay Double Rum’s “aromas of honeysuckle, marzipan, and nutmeg lead to a palate of toasted toffee and cacao, culminating in a soft, long, and very pleasant finish.”

Tanduay Reserve Rum 10 Years, another internationally recognized product, is a bold blend of rums aged in oak barrels for a decade. It is an overproof rum with an ABV of 50.5%.

In the 2026 Bartender Spirits Awards, its tasting notes were “aromas of honey, dried fruit, and spice” that “lead to a smooth, approachable palate with evolving candied fruit notes and a balanced, lingering finish.”

How Products Are Scored

Spirits are evaluated based on their mixability (how well they blend or combine in cocktails), balance and versatility (flavor and aroma), and taste, mouthfeel, and finish. They are also judged on their packaging, creative design, la-bel quality, label details, back-bar appeal, and functionality (including shape, size, weight, and ease of pouring), as well as their value, or how much they cost and what value they offer.

Bronze Medals are given to spirits who score 80-84 points, Silver to those who score 85-89 points, Gold to those who score 90-95 points, and Double Gold to those who score 96 or more points.

More About the Bartender Spirits Awards

The Bartender Spirits Awards seek to identify products that perform well in the United States' on-premise market, assisting bars, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality venues in discovering spirits with high commercial potential. 

The competition is judged entirely by hospitality professionals, and the winning spirits are recognized for their quality and practicality in real-world beverage programs.

Learn more about Tanduay’s products and latest events and promotions by following its  official social media accounts. Tanduay products are available via its official e-commerce site, www.shots.ph, and from leading liquor stores and supermarkets nation-wide.

About Tanduay

Tanduay is one of the most-awarded rum brands in the Philippines, receiving various local and international citations. In 2017, it was declared the World’s No. 1 Rum by Drinks International magazine. Tanduay will hold this title for nine consecutive years.

Tanduay started out as a distillery in Hagonoy, Bulacan, a province in the island of Luzon known for its heroes and craftsmen. It changed ownership throughout the decades and has been under the Lucio Tan Group of Companies, Inc., one of the biggest conglomerates in the Philippines, since 1988.

Even as the years passed, Tanduay has maintained the traditional way of distilling its rums, a practice that started in its now decommissioned Manila distillery. It has likewise consistently maintained its product quality, ensuring that Filipinos and foreigners alike will enjoy the same taste and aroma of a Tanduay product wherever they are in the world