Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: #GotYouCovered While You Touch Grass

In a society where being continuously online is the norm, more Filipinos are experiencing the effects of digital weariness. Long hours in front of computers, fast-paced routines, and limited access to peaceful locations have left many people feeling both overstimulated and detached.

Responding to the growing need to unplug and reconnect, Cetaphil Sun hosted the Cetaphil Sun Crawl, titled Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: Expert Sun Protection #GotYouCovered, a thoughtfully curated day of outdoor experiences designed to encourage presence, movement, and meaningful connection, all while remaining protected from the sun.

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl, inspired by the growing "touch grass" movement, reimagines common outdoor experiences as opportunities to recharge without fear of sun harm. Because being outside should not be a source of concern, especially when your skin is protected by #GotYouCovered experts.

A Morning in Motion

The day began with a brief morning run, which set the tone for an exciting start outside. Led by fitness coach Cass Salandan, the visitors, who included fitness personalities, outdoor enthusiasts, and lifestyle content creators, were directed through an approachable yet stimulating exercise meant to get them moving.

A full-body warm-up preceded the 20-minute LIIT (Low Intensity Interval Training) workout, which concluded with a squat-and-shuttle. It ended with a focused cool-down to return participants to a condition of relaxation. The event prompted participants to reconnect with their bodies, to move with intention rather than intensity.

Wellness, Slowed Down

From dance to mindfulness, visitors moved into a Wellness Wind Down in Washington Sycip Park, where the tempo slowed and the focus switched inward.

Carina Silverio, yoga coach and mindfulness teacher, led the class, which began with a gentle welcome and grounding practice to help participants settle into the room. This was followed by guided movement and breath work, which are basic, accessible activities that help to relieve tension and bring awareness back to the body.

Participants next engaged in an outdoor connection exercise that promoted reflection and presence in both the environment and the group. The event ended with silent repose and integration, allowing for serenity, which is often lacking in daily routines.

Expert Conversations

The day finished with an intimate supper, which brought guests together for meaningful discussions about modern wellness and skin health.

Dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas emphasized the growing importance of balance in today's hyperconnected environment. As people seek more purposeful offline experiences, even basic outdoor activities such as strolling, dining outside, or spending time with friends can greatly boost overall well-being.

However, in a nation like the Philippines, where UV exposure is a daily occurrence, these brief outside experiences have a cumulative effect on the skin. Prolonged exposure can cause sensitivity, dehydration, early aging, and long-term harm.

Dr. Robredo-Vitas noted that good sun care today extends beyond protection. It must also promote hydration and reinforce the skin barrier, particularly for individuals exposed to heat, pollution, and urban pressures. Gentle, well-formulated solutions are essential for reducing irritation while maintaining comfort for everyday wear.

Finally, skin protection should feel empowering, not restrictive. People can confidently spend more time outside, fully immersed in real-world experiences, thanks to modern, science-backed formulations that are lightweight and gentle on sensitive skin.

#GotYouCovered Wherever You Go

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl serves as a reminder that "touching grass" does not mean stepping off the grid, but rather achieving balance in little, everyday ways. Whether it's a morning run, a peaceful stroll in the park, or simply getting outside, these purposeful behaviors can break the cycle of digital tiredness.

With Cetaphil Sun, outdoor time becomes what it should be: liberating, simple, and stress-free. Because caring for your skin allows you to stay longer, connect deeper, and completely experience life outside of the screen.

Cetaphil Sun is available at all leading retailers like Watsons and Mercury Drugstore, and in all leading e-commerce such as Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop.

 

ABOUT CETAPHIL

Cetaphil is a globally trusted skincare brand developed by dermatological experts and backed by over 75 years of scientific research. Known for its gentle yet effective formulations, Cetaphil is designed to care for even the most sensitive skin—strengthening the skin barrier while addressing everyday concerns such as dryness, irritation, and environmental stress.

With a commitment to advancing skin science, Cetaphil continues to innovate with targeted solutions that support skin health at every stage of life. 

Ajinomoto Philippines Marks a Milestone with Tarlac Factory Construction

L-R: Kenji Muranishi, Project Manager of Production Restructuring Department of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation; Daizaburo Koga, President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation; Makoto Tanabe, Senior Vice President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation 

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) is developing its third factory at TARI complex, Tarlac City's newest and most future-ready industrial-anchored mixed-use complex. APC recently held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction project, which has a total capital expenditure of around Php 9.1 billion. 

The upcoming building represents a significant expansion for APC as it ramps its operations to meet the changing needs of Filipino consumers. It is a key step in strengthening the company's market position in the Philippines, which has lasted over 60 years. The factory is positioned to increase production capacity, improve supply chain efficiency, and support the company's overarching aim of providing high-quality and accessible food items.

“The development of a third factory reflects our long-term commitment to innovation in the Philippine Food industry and the communities we serve. It’s also part of our continuing effort to fulfill our founding purpose to help Filipinos ‘Eat Well, Live Well’. We are strengthening our capability to consistently deliver high-quality flavored seasoning, cooking sauces, and breading mixes that enable Filipinos to experience the joy of cooking delicious, nutritious and affordable meals.” ~Daizaburo Koga, APC President

All things considered, APC's decision to construct a third factory is in line with the Ajinomoto Group's 2030 global objective of increasing one billion people's healthy life expectancy and lowering environmental impact by 50%.

Aboitiz Economic Estates, the developer of TARI Estate, and CCT Constructors Corporation, APC's development partners, provided help for the groundbreaking of the company's Tarlac facility. 

BPI makes corporate collections easier with mobile check deposit capability

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) expands its digital cash management capabilities with the Express Check Deposit function on BPI BizLink, which allows business clients to deposit checks more rapidly through a safe and streamlined digital process. 

BPI BizLink is a corporate banking system that allows enterprises, SMEs, and corporations to handle cash flow, payments, and collections in a single platform. The app is part of BPI's growing digital banking ecosystem, which is expected to grow significantly in 2025, with a 23% rise in total enrolled corporate clients over the previous year.

The Express Check Deposit function on BPI BizLink is part of BPI's larger push toward digitalization, allowing businesses to shift from conventional, manual deposit methods to a more streamlined digital workflow. By eliminating the need for physical bank visits and laborious processing, BPI allows businesses to manage collections more easily.

The function is a variation on the Mobile Check Deposit facility, which enables authorized agents assigned by the Company to deposit checks using a mobile device, with transactions securely transferred over BPI BizLink. Companies can use the BizLink app to deposit checks on their behalf through their chosen agents. Authorized agents will be granted Maker or Multi-role access to the BizLink app to carry out the function.

Once access has been activated, authorized agents can download the new BPI BizLink app and use the Express Check Deposit feature through the following easy steps:

1. Log in to BPI BizLink account. 
2. Go to Menu > Collections and tap Check Deposit. 
3. Read the instructions carefully and tap Start Deposit. 
4. Take a clear photo of the front and back of the check. 
5. Enter additional check details. 
6. Choose the account where the check will be deposited to then Submit for processing.

As an added security measure, authorized agents are restricted from viewing account balances or accessing any other BizLink features.

This transition from manual to digital processing also allows businesses to employ resources more efficiently. Treasury teams can reduce the time and labor required to prepare and physically deposit checks, allowing them to focus more on supporting company operations.

This is especially useful for businesses with large-scale operations where efficient collection management is essential. CDO Foodsphere, Inc. (CDO), one of the country's top food manufacturers, has implemented the Express Check Deposit capability as part of its efforts to improve treasury operations for nationwide distribution and supplier payments. CDO now has manufacturing facilities in Valenzuela City and Malvar, Batangas, with a nationwide distribution network for its products.

CDO Foodsphere, Inc. is known for brands such as CDO Karne Norte, Funtastyk Young Pork Tocino, San Marino Corned Tuna, Idol Cheesedog, CDO Premium Holiday Ham, and Danes Cheese.

“Express Check Deposit has enhanced our operational efficiency and strengthened our cash flow management. With faster deposit of our collections, we are able to minimize borrowing costs, better manage liquidity, and optimize investment opportunities that generate additional income for the company.” ~Charmaine Ong, Senior Vice President of Corporate Purchasing and Treasury of CDO Foodsphere, Inc.

The platform’s real-time deposit confirmation, secure digital transmission, faster crediting timelines, and user-friendly interface also support improved monitoring and reconciliation of collections.

“The system’s reliability and detailed reporting capabilities support stronger audit tracking and governance. It allows our team to focus more on strategic financial initiatives rather than routine administrative tasks.” ~Judith Pascual, Vice President of Treasury and Corporate Governance of CDO Foodsphere, Inc.

For BPI, initiatives such as mobile check deposit reflect the Bank’s continued efforts to work closely with corporate clients as their operational needs evolve.

“BPI continues to look for ways to make banking processes simpler and more efficient for our corporate clients. As more companies adopt digital capabilities, we are also working to onboard other clients who can benefit from these solutions. Our relationship managers work closely with clients throughout the process to help ensure these are integrated smoothly into their operations.” ~Louie Cruz, Institutional Banking Head of BPI

Learn more about BPI BizLink at https://www.bpi.com.ph/sme-banking/cashflow-management/bizlink.

TECNO Unveils Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 Jointly with Lonely Planet in Philippines

Calling on TECNO CAMON users nationwide to capture real life moments under the theme "Seeing is Believing" — with global travel awards and filipino special  prizes up for grabs.

TECNO, the AI-driven revolutionary technology brand, and Lonely Planet, the world's leading travel guiding company, today announced the co-hosted Shot On CAMON Contest 2026, the third edition of TECNO's annual worldwide photography competition. Rooted in a shared spirit of inquiry and creativity, the collaboration broadens the contest's scope beyond technology to recognize the people, locations, and stories behind each shot. Through expert co-judging, co-branded material, and photo-essay-style storytelling, TECNO and Lonely Planet hope to inspire consumers all over the world to see more, feel more, and tell richer visual stories. Three Lonely Planet photographers will submit original images shot on the CAMON 50 Series, and one will serve on the final-round jury panel with TECNO's imaging team.

“Great photos are not just about equipment – they are about how deeply the photographer can immerse themselves in a destination. TECNO’s technology makes that immersion easier, helping users stay present, observe more closely and capture meaningful moments as they happen. We are excited to partner on Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 and look forward to seeing how photographers around the world bring their journeys to life.” ~Melissa Killian, Vice President of Integrated Marketing at Lonely Planet

This year's contest, themed "Seeing is Believing," runs from May 15 to October 11, 2026, and invites smartphone photographers from around the world to capture true, beautiful, and unrepeatable events using the TECNO CAMON 50 Series. In an increasingly AI-driven year, the theme is TECNO's call to appreciate the authenticity of real life through photography, recognizing different skin tones, ephemeral emotions, and real-world observations. Even the contest's AI category begins with a real photograph, inviting people to begin with genuine observation and personal expression.

TECNO Philippines Welcomes Kelvinmarkulit as CAMON Photography Ambassador

To further fuel local interest in authentic mobile photography, TECNO Philippines has named Kelvinmarkulit, a highly respected Filipino visual storyteller known for his raw, unfiltered depictions of everyday Filipino life, as the official CAMON Photography Ambassador for the Philippine leg of the contest. Kelvin will play a variety of roles, including co-creating a call-out video to encourage Filipino producers to enter the competition, working as a regional judge to determine the country's most captivating entries, and participating in the exclusive winner's journey. His collaboration with TECNO is more than just a celebrity endorsement; it sends a strong signal to Filipino photographers that local stories, shot with honesty and emotion, can compete on a global scale.

Five Creative Categories That Celebrate New Ways of Seeing

The five categories of Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 are designed to inspire different ways of seeing, encouraging participants to capture real moments, emotions and perspectives from everyday life and travel.

• Faces·Unfiltered – This category celebrates authentic portraits that reflect people as they really are, capturing diverse skin tones and individuality in a quiet close-up, a candid street portrait, or a moment shared between friends.
• Night·Unveiled – This category invites participants to capture the atmosphere, mystery and emotion that emerge after dark, from neon-lit streets and reflections after rain to still moonlit scenes and late-night city life. 
• Culture·Unscripted – This category focuses on capturing the rhythm of a place as it naturally unfolds, whether through festivals, crafts, food moments or unplanned interactions between people.
• Snapshot·Unspotted (Telephoto Special) – Participants are invited to capture distant details that reveal something surprising, intimate or easily overlooked, from textures on far-off peaks to a fleeting expression within a crowd.
• AI·Unimagined (AI Gallery Special) – First capture a real-world photo with a TECNO phone, then transform it into an artistic style using TECNO’s AI Gallery. Both the original photograph and the AI-styled image must be submitted together. This category is designed to explore how AI can extend creative expression while keeping real-world photography as the starting point. 

“‘Seeing is Believing’ is both a creative brief for our contestants and a reminder that the most powerful images begin with real life. Through Shot On CAMON Contest 2026, we hope to inspire users around the world to observe more closely, express themselves more freely and celebrate the beauty of authentic moments through photography.” ~Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO

Awards, Honors and How to Enter

To honor extraordinary innovation, the Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 will offer excellent work throughout its major award tiers with both cash and rare vacation rewards presented by Lonely Planet. Selected winners will travel on a guided voyage to see the wonders - experiencing is believing, and miracles can only be experienced firsthand.

As part of the competition, one excellent photographer will receive the TECNO Photography Master prize ($8,000). In addition, five winners will be chosen for the Gold Prize ($3,000), five for the Silver Prize ($2,000), and five for the Bronze Prize ($1,000). Ten candidates will also be chosen as TECNO Friends and given a CAMON 50 Series Smartphone. As an added incentive, the TECNO Photography Master and the five Gold Prize winners will be invited to a personalized trip to the Philippines.

Special "Filipino Special Award" – Exclusive for Philippine Participants

In addition to the global rewards, TECNO Philippines will launch the Filipino Special Award to honor and promote local creative talent. Philippine users can submit photographs (normal entries) or videos (via Instagram/Facebook Reels and TikTok). While video uploads are considered informal entries and so ineligible for worldwide prizes, they are automatically considered for the Filipino Special Award. Six additional winners will be chosen as CAMON Photography Endorsers in the Philippines, with each getting a Lonely Planet Bespoke Trip Trip and a CAMON 50 Series smartphone. The results are as follows: five winners from image submissions (any of the five contest categories) and one winner from video submissions. This particular award demonstrates TECNO Philippines' dedication to recognizing domestic visual storytellers, whether they capture a moment in time or bring it to life through motion.

How to Enter

To enter, participants should post photos with a visible TECNO device watermark on Instagram using the hashtags #ShotOnCAMON2026 #TECNOCAMON50Series and #TECNOPhilippines, then submit high-resolution versions via email at shotoncamon@tecnomobile.com or through the ShotOnCAMON Gallery on TECNO’s Philippines official website. All entries must be original content and duplicate submissions will be disqualified. Winning works will be showcased in global media exhibitions, the TECNO annual photo book, and across TECNO’s official platforms.

For full contest rules and details, visit Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 or follow on Instagram.

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

Herbalife Partners with HyveSports & Women’s Fitness Asia to Make Fitness More Accessible Across the Philippines

Herbalife, a leading health and wellness company, community, and platform, has announced a year-long partnership with HyveSports and Women's Fitness Asia to power some of the country's largest running and fitness events in 2026.

The relationship demonstrates Herbalife's commitment to supporting everyday fitness groups, where many Filipinos begin their active lifestyles, while also expanding its presence at large-scale, community-driven events around the country.

Kinki Lau, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines, stated that the relationship shows a common goal of making wellness more accessible and sustainable.

“We see more people looking for ways to stay active, but consistency is often the challenge. Through this partnership, we aim to support communities across the country by making fitness more accessible, engaging and be part of everyday life. By connecting with people through large-scale events like this, we can help inspire consistency and empower more individuals to stay active over the long term.” ~Kinki Lau, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines

Julius Em, CEO of HyveSports and Justine Cordero-Em, Founder of Women’s Fitness Asia Philippines, echoed this, emphasizing the partnership’s role in creating more inclusive and engaging fitness experiences.

“At HyveSports, our goal has always been to get more people moving in a way that feels fun and inclusive. With Herbalife, we can take that even further by supporting Filipinos not just during events, but throughout their fitness journey. Together, we’re making it easier for more communities to stay active.” ~Julius Em, CEO of HyveSports and Justine Cordero-Em, Founder of Women’s Fitness Asia Philippines

The agreement was officially revealed at The Music Run Manila 2026, which returns to Filinvest City Events Grounds in Alabang. More than 4,000 runners will participate in the 5K and 10K events, which blend music, movement, and entertainment via DJ-powered racing zones and a post-run festival experience.

As part of the event experience, Herbalife set up an on-site refreshment and hydration nutrition and recovery booth, where thousands of attendees could sample products, shakes, and engage in wellness activities.

Building on the momentum, Herbalife will continue to support a series of major mass participation events organized by HyveSports through 2026, including ColorFest Carnival Run, Electric Night Run, Trifactor & Amazon for Triathlon & Duathlon races, and other large-scale fitness experiences expected to attract tens of thousands of participants across the country.

Herbalife hopes that by hosting these activities, more Filipinos will be able to stay active and develop habits that would benefit their daily lives.

VYBE by BPI expands cash-in network through M Lhuillier Partnership

L-R: Christian Villegas, Digital Channels Head, BPI; Atty Joyce Robin, Sales Partnerships and Business Development Head, M Lhuillier; Eric Faustino, Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems Head, BPI

To bring digital finance closer to regular Filipinos, VYBE, the Bank of the Philippine Islands' (BPI) e-wallet, is expanding access through a new partnership with M Lhuillier, allowing free cash-in transactions at over 3,000 branches countrywide.

Users can cash in at any M Lhuillier branch, allowing them to take full advantage of VYBE features like as seamless digital payments, free fund transfers to other banks and e-wallets, reward points, and other everyday financial services.

“This initiative reinforces BPI’s commitment to financial inclusion. By making cash-in services more accessible through a trusted partner, we are helping more Filipinos take their first step toward adopting digital financial tools in their daily lives.” ~Eric Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems at BPI

VYBE users may cash in their e-wallets at M Lhuillier through three simple steps: 

1. Fill out Kwarta Padala form and give the amount
2. Get the transaction receipt from the cashier
3. Check your VYBE e-wallet and see the credited amount

“At M Lhuillier, our focus has always been on meeting customers where they are. As a ‘Tulay ng Pilipino,’ we are committed to bridging Filipinos to essential services. Through this collaboration with VYBE, we offer a simple and reliable way for customers to access digital financial solutions through our extensive branch network.” ~Michael L. Lhuillier, President and CEO at M Lhuillier

The agreement represents VYBE's ongoing efforts to make digital financial services more inclusive and broadly available, assisting more Filipinos in transitioning from cash to digital via simple, accessible, and familiar channels that they already trust.

VYBE by BPI is an all-in-one e-wallet app that aims to make daily transactions more lucrative and convenient. Users may use the app to pay with QR Ph, transfer funds for free to other banks and e-wallets, earn and redeem loyalty points, and access a variety of digital financial services all through a seamless mobile experience.

Concepcion creates shared value by exceeding 100% plastic offsets and driving livelihoods in local communities

Concepcion Industrial Corporation Sustainability Champions. at the 2025 PCX PULSE Sustainability Conference

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), the nation's leading provider of home and business solutions, continues to redefine responsible corporate citizenship by proving that true sustainability must have an impact that extends beyond business. Its subsidiaries include Concepcion Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC), Concepcion-Durables, Inc. (CDI), and Concepcion Midea Inc. Cortex Technologies Corporation (CTC) and the Philippines (CMIP) successfully diverted 885,000 kg of plastic waste throughout the last year.

Concepcion empowers the Aling Tinderas in local communitiesto lead the change against plastic pollution in partnership with PCX

This annual milestone highlights CIC's proactive approach to environmental sustainability. CIC, in collaboration with PCX, has gone above and beyond traditional environmental compliance. This agreement assures that for every kilogram of plastic produced by the corporation, an equal or higher amount is recovered, converted into reusable materials or energy, and reintegrated into the country's circular economy. CIC is happy to be among a small group of companies that continuously meet or exceed the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) plastic offsetting mandates.

While the environmental measurements are important, the ultimate success of CIC's effort is determined by its grassroots social impact. The Aling Tindera network is at the heart of this mission, transforming regular sari-sari stores into community collection hubs. This program retrieved more than 107,000 kilos of diverted waste directly from local areas. This initiative does more than just remove plastic from the streets and oceans; it also promotes economic resilience by allowing female micro-entrepreneurs to raise environmental awareness in their communities while earning a sustainable, supplemental income. 

For many of these women, participating in this “waste-to-cash” ecosystem has provided a  tangible pathway to financial stability and growth. Aling Belen, a program partner, highlighted  how the initiative secures her family's future: “Dinadala ko po siya sa pangangailangan ng  aking mga anak sa eskwela (I use this for my children's school needs).”

 Similarly, Aling Lorme reflected on the opportunities the program unlocked for her family's  business: “One week lang, puno na ang site namin dahil maraming nagbebenta sa amin ng  mga plastic bottles, sachet at PET bottles. Nakapagpundar na kami ngayon ng tindahan ng  school supplies. Kung wala itong Aling Tindera, hindi namin ma-eexpand ang aming  tindahan (In just one week, our site is full because so many people sell us plastic bottles and  sachets. We’ve since been able to establish a school supplies store. Without Aling Tindera,  we wouldn’t have been able to expand our business).” 

These stories bring CIC's overall sustainability vision to life. By combining large-scale investments in recycling infrastructure with community-level empowerment, collected plastic waste is converted into recyclable products, helping to create a circular economy and drastically reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans. 

CIC demonstrates through these collaborative activities that responsible manufacturing is more than just reducing harm; it is also about creating shared value. Every kilogram of plastic redirected results not just in a cleaner environment, but also in new prospects for Filipino households.