Novo Nordisk strengthens their commitment to obesity care in the Philippines

Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare business with over 100 years of scientific leadership in obesity and diabetes care, is reinforcing its commitment to developing care for obese individuals in the Philippines, as a new generation of therapies is about to reach Filipino patients.

At the heart of this progress are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, a type of medication that mimics a natural hormone in the body that helps regulate hunger and blood sugar. These treatments help people feel fuller for longer, lower cravings, and better manage their appetites, all while improving blood sugar management for diabetics.

This twofold advantage represents a fundamental shift in how obesity and related disorders are viewed—not as willpower issues, but as chronic diseases requiring medical attention.

The emergence of GLP-1-based therapy has been one of the most significant advances in metabolic health in recent years. Over time, these drugs have exhibited significant and sustained weight loss outcomes in clinical tests, bringing obesity treatment closer to the success of surgical procedures, albeit in a less intrusive form. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, GLP-1 RA medicines have revolutionized weight loss, reducing body weight in obese patients by 15% to 25% on average after a year. Their mechanism of action is to mimic endogenous GLP-1, an intestinal hormone that controls glucose metabolism and satiety.

This evolution reflects decades of research into the biology of hunger, hormones, and weight regulation, culminating in therapies that address the root causes of obesity.

“We are entering a new era in obesity care in the country. One that is grounded in science, compassion, and long-term solutions. For many years, people living with obesity have been left with limited options and significant stigma. Today, with advancements in treatments that work with the body’s natural systems, we could transform outcomes for patients across the Philippines. Patient safety must always come first. We strongly advise against the use of unapproved or compounded alternatives that bypass strict regulatory processes. These products may pose serious health risks and do not offer the same assurance of safety and effectiveness as approved medicines.” ~Wei Sun, general manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines

Patient safety

As these advances become more widely available, Novo Nordisk underlines the need of patient safety and appropriate medical care. The company encourages patients to consult with trained healthcare professionals and only utilize licensed, controlled medications. 

With the expanding global demand for weight management medicines, compounded or unregulated versions have emerged, which may not fulfill the same quality, safety, and efficacy criteria.

Novo Nordisk's initiatives in the Philippines go beyond treatment access, concentrating on raising awareness of obesity as a chronic disease, providing healthcare professionals with up-to-date medical education, and collaborating to increase access to safe, evidence-based care.

About Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark and has been existing in the Philippines for more than 25 years. Our purpose is to drive change in defeating serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 76,300 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit Novo Nordisk Philippines, Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.

PCPPI increases support for sari-sari stores to empower Filipino micro-entrepreneurs

In order to empower small retailers and improve product accessibility throughout communities, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) is strengthening its support for sari-sari stores through a technology-enabled direct-to-retail strategy.

Sari-sari establishments continue to be vital to the Philippine retail scene as local hubs and sources of income for millions of Filipino households. Because it understands the importance of these micro-entrepreneurs, PCPPI continues to base its long-term business plan on them.

According to Phyo Phyu Noe, President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PCPPI, the company is focused on employing a distribution model that allows owners of sari-sari stores to directly benefit from the company's promotions, pricing policies, and service support.

“Every time our frontliners visit a sari-sari store, we make sure that they are getting the best prices. Technology helps us ensure that the discounts and promotions intended for sari-sari stores reach them directly. We are very clear about our purpose. Our goal is to serve sari-sari stores and support the entrepreneurs behind them—not just today, but for many years to come. Affordability does not mean lowering standards. It means becoming more efficient so we can continue delivering quality products to Filipino consumers.” ~Phyo Phyu Noe, PCPPI President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 

For many small shopkeepers, many of whom are female entrepreneurs, sari-sari stores provide a significant source of household income and resilience. By increasing its direct interaction with local establishments, PCPPI hopes to assist neighborhood retailers in operating more efficiently and remaining competitive in an ever-changing retail landscape.

Delivering value in changing times

As Filipino consumers become more value-conscious in the face of economic headwinds, PCPPI is improving operational efficiency to continue supporting sari-sari retailers and the communities they serve.

PCPPI's technology-enabled, locally based distribution model aspires to develop alongside the sari-sari stores that underpin communities around the Philippines.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Il Corso and Cebu IT Park Now Accessible via CBRT in Under 40 Minutes

A CBRT bus stands ready for commuters at the Il Corso stop in Cebu’s South Road Properties.

Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) hailed the debut of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) service, which now gives direct access to Il Corso at South Road Properties (SRP) and Cebu IT Park, a significant step toward enhancing Cebu's transportation network. The system is intended to serve tens of thousands of people every day, increasing mobility and making vital employment and commercial districts more accessible to residents around the city.

The CBRT service commenced operations on March 13, marking an important step in Cebu's efforts to upgrade its public transportation infrastructure. The first route connects Il Corso at South Road Properties to Cebu IT Park, passing via Cebu City's main north-south corridor via Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Osmeña Boulevard, and N. Escario street. Designed to move at an average speed of around 25 kilometers per hour, the system allows commuters to travel between the SRP and Cebu IT Park in roughly 35 to 40 minutes, providing a faster and more predictable journey than traditional road-based transportation along the same route.

The new system makes commuting easier and faster for City di Mare inhabitants, Il Corso visitors and tenant staff, as well as surrounding Talisay towns, by providing a direct and efficient path to Cebu City's main business and commercial districts. This expanded access broadens the available labor pool for firms, promotes worker mobility, and allows more people to find work in major economic hubs, contributing to a more dynamic and integrated urban economy.

Filinvest Land stated its support for the effort in conjunction with the Cebu City Government, acknowledging that improving transportation infrastructure is critical to establishing more linked neighborhoods and facilitating local economic activity.

“The strength of a city lies in how well it connects people to opportunity. Initiatives that improve access between communities and economic centers help support local progress and create environments where people can live, work, and thrive.” ~Tristan Las Marias, President and CEO of Filinvest Land

Il Corso, Filinvest Land's waterfront retail development at South Road Properties, serves as the route's southern gateway. Il Corso, designed as an open-air lifestyle destination along Cebu's coastline, has become a popular gathering spot for residents and visitors, offering a variety of dining, recreational, and waterfront activities.

Filinvest Land continues to support efforts that promote connections, fuel local economies, and contribute to Cebu's long-term progress through developments such as Il Corso and engagement with local government partners.

About Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) 

Filinvest Land, Inc. (PSE: FLI), the property arm of Filinvest Development Corporation, is one of the Philippines’ most diversified real estate developers with a nationwide portfolio of more than 280 projects. With a 70-year track record, FLI builds across the full range of residential communities, mid- and high-rise condominiums, lifestyle retail, Grade A offices, mixed-use estates, and industrial parks that support inclusive and sustainable growth.

On the residential front, FLI serves a broad spectrum of Filipino families—from first-time homebuyers to urban professionals—through well-planned subdivisions, mid-market condo communities, and modern township living across key cities and fast-growing regional centers.

FLI is the master planner and developer behind several of the country’s most strategic districts, including its stake in Filinvest Alabang, Inc., master developer of the 244-hectare Filinvest City; two expanding estates within the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone—Filinvest New Clark City and Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City; and the PEZA-registered Filinvest Innovation Park – Ciudad de Calamba, which supports modern manufacturing and logistics.

Recognized with multiple industry honors—including Developer of the Year and top regional and Asia-wide real estate awards—FLI continues to help shape the cities of tomorrow through developments that create long-term value for communities, businesses, and the Philippine economy.

For more information, visit www.filinvestland.com.

The Ultra-Light and Accurate Titanium Smartwatch: HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 Refines Route Precision with Industry-First GPS Tech, Pre-Order Starts April 17 for PHP 19,999

Running requires rigorous accuracy, whether you're a casual jogger or a goal-driven athlete. The HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 is designed for maximum precision, combining an aerospace-grade titanium build with industry-first XDR Inertial Navigation Positioning Algorithm antenna technology to create an ultra-light and accurate titanium smartwatch for runners.

The Huawei WATCH GT Runner 2 will retail for PHP 19,999. It is backed by a historic alliance with marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge and provides flawless route, speed, and heart rate tracking in every situation, allowing any runner to grow at their own pace.

Track and Optimize Every Run with Precision

Runners never have to worry about losing their GPS connection, no matter where they are: big skyscrapers, deep trails, or vast tunnels. The HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 features a novel 3D floating antenna architecture that converts the watch's metal frame into a signal booster, increasing antenna performance by 50% over the previous generation. 

If runners enter a total dead zone, the XDR Inertial Navigation Positioning Algorithm automatically takes control. It uses internal motion sensors to calculate your exact path depending on your activity, guaranteeing that your route tracking is faultless and continuous, making it suitable for professional runners and sports.

Beyond tracking, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 functions as an intelligent on-wrist coach, providing individualized training regimens for everything from easy 3K jogs to full marathons. It includes the industry's first Real-Time Lactate Threshold Detection Algorithm to assist each runner in training more effectively. This accurately evaluates genuine workout intensity on the fly, indicating how hard athletes may push their boundaries without burning out. The algorithm provides everyone with data and confidence to set new personal bests.

Featherlight Titanium Design Meets Unmatched Health Tracking

The HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 features a sleek aerospace-grade titanium body and drop-resistant Kunlun 2nd Generation glass, which is 20 times stronger than conventional glass, resulting in an ultra-light titanium runner watch weighing only 43.5g with an ultra-thin 10.7mm profile. The extremely breathable, water-repellent AirDry woven strap ensures all-day comfort, whether you're at work or pushing your limits on the track. Matching this peak performance is a design inspired by the runner's horizon, with three new hues that combine titanium toughness and high-end flair.

Powered by the HUAWEI TruSense System, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 provides a robust health suite with 98% heart rate accuracy, which is similar to gold-standard chest straps, ECG, HRV, and sleep monitoring. The high-silicon battery supports continuous tracking with up to 14 days of light use and 32 hours of continuous GPS. It also has extensive iOS and Android compatibility for easy everyday integration.

Take the Next Step in Running with the Ultimate Running Companion

HUAWEI's new HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 gives every runner complete control over their fitness journey. Delivering accurate tools and proactive analytics, allowing you to securely pursue your most ambitious health and performance objectives

Prepare to begin immediately since your perfect training companion is almost here. Get a unique package of freebies worth up to PHP 13,384 when you pre-order the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 between April 17 and April 23, 2026. This pre-order bundle includes the Huawei FreeArc, an extra Fluoroelastomer Strap in-box, a three-month Huawei Health+ Membership, and a two-year guarantee with two-year accidental damage protection. Customers can also obtain a PHP 2,000 trade-in token at Huawei Experience Stores.

For those looking to secure theirs online, special early-bird offers start on April 8, 2026. You can pay a PHP 100 deposit to lock in an exclusive PHP 3,000 discount when purchasing through the HUAWEI Online Store, or claim a PHP 1,000 early-bird voucher by checking out via HUAWEI’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop stores.

To make upgrading even more accessible, flexible installment plans are available. Customers can opt for credit card payments for up to 24 months, for as low as PHP 834 per month. Home Credit financing is also available for up to 18 months, starting at just PHP 778 per month after a 30% down payment.

Visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Stores or explore HUAWEI’s official website and social media pages to know more and reserve yours today.

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

HUAWEI's products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of HUAWEI's three business units and covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. HUAWEI's global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

For more information please visit: this page.

Cebu Pacific Celebrates Day of Valor with Special Seat Sale

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' top airline, begins April with a special seat sale in honor of the country's Day of Valor, providing more options for every Juan to fly for less.

From April 6 to 9, travelers can book flights to all CEB locations for as low as PHP 88 one-way, without fees and surcharges.

Beachgoers can use Tagbilaran as a gateway to Bohol's world-famous Chocolate Hills and gorgeous beaches, while Zamboanga offers a diverse range of cultures and colorful vintas. Meanwhile, Cebu provides as a convenient jumping off place for some of the country's most popular island retreats.

Beyond Manila, customers can connect at the airline's important hubs in Clark, Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo.

For international travels, CEB provides direct connections to key Asian destinations. Travelers may quickly visit Singapore's sophisticated attractions, see Hong Kong's vibrant cityscape, or discover Shanghai's distinct blend of tradition and innovation. Korean travelers can also fly to Incheon to experience South Korean culture, cuisine, and seasonal attractions.

CEB presently operates in 35 domestic and 26 overseas destinations throughout Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Visit www.cebupacificair.com or book directly via the Cebu Pacific app to secure your seats now.

Bring out those bunny ears and celebrate Easter in SM Supermalls around the country

This Easter, SM Supermalls transforms into a vibrant playground filled with egg hunts, parades, and colorful photo spots until April 5. Whether you’re bringing the kids or planning a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy to the max.

 

Expect a full lineup of activities, from interactive games and creative workshops to lively performances, delivering a memorable Easter experience for families and friends alike.

 

After all the Easter fun (or even before you start), take a break and refuel with a satisfying group dining experience at these must-visit spots:

Simmer into richness at Ninepot (SM North EDSA, SM City Clark)

Gather around the table and enjoy authentic Taiwanese hotpot at Ninepot.

Perfect for group dining, Ninepot brings people together over warm, flavorful broths and customizable sets perfect for sharing.

 

Indulge in a timeless bowl at Mak’s Noodle (SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia)

Share a comforting bowl and good conversation at Mak’s Noodle.

Craving something comforting? Enjoy authentic Hong Kong noodles, known for their flavorful broth and signature thin egg noodles—ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal together.

 

Savor rustic Italian flavors at Osteria Antica (The Podium)

Make your Easter gathering extra special with a refined Italian feast at Osteria Antica.

For a more elevated group dining experience, treat the family to refined Italian dishes like the Pompano Al Forno—perfect for special Easter gatherings.

 

Enjoy steakhouse comfort at Mamou (The Podium, S Maison)

Indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and rich, satisfying sides at Mamou.

A go-to spot for group dining and special occasions, Mamou serves hearty steakhouse favorites best enjoyed with your loved ones.

 

Experience Japanese elegance at Hoshino Coffee (SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM City East Ortigas)

Slow down and savor quiet moments over coffee and desserts at Hoshino Coffee.

End the day with hand-brewed coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes that are perfect for relaxing and sharing sweet moments after a full day.

 

After a satisfying meal—or even before you start—make the most of your visit with these Easter activities:

 

Strike your best pose at the Bunny Photo Corner

 

Snap photos at vibrant Easter setups filled with pastel colors, bunny props, and playful backdrops—perfect for capturing fun family moments and colorful Easter memories.

 

Walk proudly at the Easter Runway Costume Contest

Dress your kids in their cutest Easter outfits and let them shine at the Easter Runway Costume Contest at SM Supermalls nationwide.

Dress up in your most creative Easter outfits—bunny ears and all—and strut your stuff at the Easter Runway Show. Kids and families can join in for a chance to win fun prizes.

Hop into the Easter Eggventure Game

Go on a digital egg hunt around select SM Supermalls, where hidden QR-coded eggs unlock points and exciting rewards through the Play at SM website. Make sure to explore every corner for a truly exciting adventure—it’s a fun, high-tech twist on a classic Easter tradition.

Unleash artistry at Easter Art Lab

Let kids get creative at the Easter Art Lab, where they can paint, craft, and bring home their own colorful creations—a fun keepsake from a full day of Easter fun.

 

March in the Easter Parade

Celebrate Easter with a full day of excitement, featuring fun-filled games, a creative costume contest, and amazing prizes.

Watch beloved Easter characters come to life in festive parades across select malls. Dance along, interact with mascots, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the whole family celebrates together.

 

Honor tradition with a meaningful Easter Blessing

For families who want to celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter, select malls will hold Easter Sunday Mass on April 5, offering a quiet moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

Whether you’re dining with loved ones, hunting for eggs, or enjoying a full day of activities, your most loved mall, SM Supermalls is the place to be this Easter. Don’t miss out—plan your visit and make it an Easter to remember.

SM Coastal Cleanups Go Beyond Trash, Teach Communities to Care

In celebration of World Water Day, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, organized coastal cleanup activities across six locations with seven participating malls across nationwide, reinforcing its long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management in its most-loved malls.

This year’s coastal cleanup emphasized enhanced waste segregation education to deepen understanding among volunteers and communities on proper sorting, recycling, and disposal of collected waste. It also underscored that everyday actions—from responsible waste disposal to recycling—play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems. 

The coastal cleanup activities took place across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, bringing together communities in a shared effort to protect local coastal environments and divert waste away from the ocean. 

During the cleanups, collected waste was carefully sorted and categorized, allowing participants to see firsthand the types of materials commonly found in coastal areas—from plastic packaging and beverage containers to other discarded items that threaten marine life and coastal habitats. 

By focusing on waste analysis and segregation, raised awareness on the impact of improperly managed waste and encouraged Filipinos to adopt more responsible environmental practices in their daily lives.

These coastal cleanup activities form part of SM Supermalls’ broader environmental sustainability programs, aligned with the SM Green Movement and the company’s Waste-Free Future campaign. 

“Protecting our coastal and marine environments requires a more proactive, end-to-end approach with the cleanups starting with education, deepening awareness, and sustaining collective action. 

“By helping communities understand the importance of proper waste segregation and responsible waste management, we hope to inspire long-term behavioral change that benefits both people and the planet.” ~Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director for Environment and Sustainability of SM Supermalls

The initiative also highlights the spirit of bayanihan, bringing together mall communities, environmental partners, and local stakeholders in a shared effort to care for the environment.

As SM Cares continues to strengthen its sustainability programs throughout the year, the public is encouraged to participate in upcoming environmental initiatives, including World Oceans Day Cleanup Drives in June, International Coastal Cleanup activities in September, and National Environmental Awareness Month initiatives in November.

Through sustained efforts like these, SM Cares continues to empower communities to take part in protecting the environment—all for Filipinos, and all for the planet. 

To learn more about SM Cares’ environmental initiatives and how you can take part in upcoming programs, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.