SOCIAL MEDIA

Torres Enters the Philippine Market With Torres 5 Light Through Tanduay Partnership

Wednesday, February 4, 2026


The Philippine spirits market is welcoming a new international name with a long-standing legacy. Renowned Spanish brandy house Torres has officially entered the country, marking its debut through a strategic distribution partnership with Tanduay. The collaboration brings Torres’ heritage of Spanish craftsmanship to Filipino consumers, starting with the launch of Torres 5 Light.

This market entry signals a meeting of two established spirits brands that share a focus on quality, tradition, and long-term growth. For local consumers, it also means access to a globally respected brandy portfolio that blends European heritage with flavors designed for modern drinking occasions.

A Strategic Partnership Between Two Established Spirits Brands

Torres’ arrival in the Philippines is anchored on its partnership with Tanduay, one of the country’s most recognized spirits producers and distributors. Through this collaboration, Torres products will be made available nationwide, expanding the brand’s reach in Southeast Asia.

“The arrival of Torres in the Philippines marks the coming of two great houses that are united by a shared commitment to excellence and growth,” said Lucio Tan III, President and CEO of Tanduay. “This partnership reflects our vision to offer Filipino consumers world-class spirits.”

From a business perspective, the partnership allows Torres to tap into Tanduay’s strong distribution network and deep understanding of local market preferences. For Tanduay, the collaboration strengthens its premium portfolio by adding a respected international brand with centuries of heritage.

Introducing Torres 5 Light to Filipino Consumers

Leading Torres’ Philippine lineup is Torres 5 Light, a brandy created to be more approachable while staying true to traditional Spanish brandy-making techniques. According to Christian Visalli, Global Managing Director of Torres Spirits, the company is excited to introduce this expression to the local market.

“We are proud to bring the rich heritage of Spanish brandy to the Philippines,” Visalli shared. “With Tanduay as our distributor, we are confident that Torres products will reach Filipino consumers who appreciate exceptional spirits with authentic Spanish tradition.”

Torres 5 Light is positioned as an accessible entry point for drinkers who are curious about brandy but prefer a lighter, smoother profile. It is designed to fit naturally into casual gatherings while still offering a premium experience.

Crafted With Tradition, Designed for Modern Drinking

Torres 5 Light is produced using quality grapes and aged in oak barrels through the Solera method, a traditional aging process that helps create consistency and depth of flavor. The result is a brandy that balances craftsmanship with approachability.

In the glass, Torres 5 Light shows a clear to medium gold color. On the nose, it offers subtle aromas of grape, dried fruits, and vanilla. The palate is smooth and gently sweet, with notes of prune, grape, and vanilla that make it easy to enjoy even for first-time brandy drinkers.

Bottled at 25 percent alcohol by volume, Torres 5 Light is best enjoyed over ice, making it suitable for relaxed social moments. Its lighter profile aligns well with local drinking preferences while still reflecting the refined character associated with Spanish brandy.

Expanding the Torres Portfolio in the Philippines

While Torres 5 Light headlines the brand’s local debut, it is only the beginning of Torres’ presence in the Philippine market. The product will be distributed nationwide, alongside other premium Torres offerings that cater to a wide range of consumers.

From younger drinkers exploring new spirits to seasoned enthusiasts looking for refined selections, the Torres lineup aims to serve diverse tastes and occasions. Additional Torres products are expected to become available within the first quarter of the year, further strengthening the brand’s footprint in the country.

Internal linking opportunity: This article can link to related stories on premium spirits trends in the Philippines, global brands entering the local market, or Tanduay’s recent business expansions.

A Legacy Rooted in Spanish Winemaking History

Torres’ story is deeply tied to Spanish viticulture. The Torres family has been growing grapes in the Penedès region of Spain since the 16th century. In 1870, Jaime Torres Vendrell formally established Casa Torres, initially focusing on wine production.

The family’s journey into brandy began in 1928 when Juan Torres Casals started aging brandy in oak barrels using white wines sourced from Penedès. This approach helped define the signature style that Torres is known for today, combining tradition, patience, and attention to detail.

Over the decades, Torres has grown into a globally recognized name in spirits, respected for its commitment to quality and innovation while staying rooted in heritage.

Bringing Spanish Brandy to Local Shelves

Torres 5 Light will be available at leading supermarkets and grocery stores across the Philippines, making it accessible to both casual shoppers and spirits enthusiasts. With Tanduay managing local distribution, Filipino consumers can expect consistent availability and wider market reach.

As international brands continue to enter the Philippine spirits scene, Torres’ debut highlights the growing demand for premium yet approachable offerings. By blending centuries-old Spanish craftsmanship with flavors that resonate locally, Torres positions itself as a strong new contender in the country’s evolving spirits market.
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Hanabishi Supports Karinderya Livelihoods Through Project


For many Filipino families, the neighborhood karinderya is more than a place to eat. It is a livelihood, a community hub, and often a family’s main source of income. Recognizing this, Hanabishi Appliances continues to invest in sustainable, grassroots entrepreneurship through its Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy.

In partnership with K-COOP, Hanabishi once again supported Project Karinderya during the final quarter of 2025. The initiative aims to uplift small, community-based eateries while helping address food security in underserved areas. This renewed collaboration builds on earlier efforts made in the middle of the year and expands its reach to more families and communities.

Supporting Nanaypreneurs and Community Food Security

Hanabishi’s involvement in Project Karinderya reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to Filipino households. Rather than focusing solely on product sales, the company positions itself as a partner in everyday living, particularly for small entrepreneurs who need practical support to grow their businesses.

“More than an appliance brand, Hanabishi is a trusted partner of Filipino families,” shared Cherish Ong-Chua, Vice President for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances. “We are one with organizations like K-COOP in looking for ways to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to them, especially to the nanaypreneurs who need assistance in growing their karinderya business.”

The term nanaypreneur has become increasingly relevant in livelihood discussions, referring to mothers who manage small businesses while supporting their families. For many of them, access to reliable kitchen equipment can significantly impact daily operations, food quality, and income stability.

Expanding Impact in Rizal and Bulacan

Hanabishi first partnered with K-COOP earlier in 2025, initially distributing Karinderya Starter Kits to selected beneficiaries in August. By the last quarter of the year, the program scaled up its efforts.

A total of 30 karinderya owners in Rizal and Bulacan received new starter kits, allowing them to improve their operations and serve their communities more efficiently. Beyond supporting business owners, the program also helped feed 600 individuals for 30 days through meal subsidies.

Under Project Karinderya, community members received a ₱60 daily meal subsidy for one month. These subsidies were redeemable at participating karinderyas, ensuring that the support circulated within the local economy while providing food access to those who need it most.

What’s Inside the Hanabishi Karinderya Starter Kit

Each Karinderya Starter Kit was carefully curated to meet the daily needs of small food businesses. Instead of offering generic assistance, Hanabishi provided appliances that directly improve efficiency, food preparation, and customer service.

The kits included a Hanabishi electric fan, either model HISF180C or HISF180, to improve comfort in often warm cooking spaces. Cooking essentials such as a gas stove or an oven toaster were included, along with a rice cooker or pressure cooker to support daily meal preparation.

Additional equipment included a water dispenser with free water or a hand mixer and blender for food preparation. Depending on the kit, beneficiaries also received either a coffee maker or an airpot, allowing karinderya owners to expand their menu offerings and increase potential income.

These appliances help reduce operational strain while enabling small eateries to serve food more consistently and safely.

A Holistic Approach to Livelihood Support

Project Karinderya goes beyond providing equipment. One of its core strengths lies in its holistic design, which combines livelihood assistance with community nutrition and education.

Beneficiaries include vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant and lactating mothers, and low-income families. By directing meal subsidies to these groups, the program addresses immediate food needs while supporting local businesses.

Participating karinderya owners also undergo training and capability-building sessions. These cover essential topics such as food safety, proper nutrition, and customer service. Health cadets and monitoring teams are deployed to ensure that food quality standards are met and that program guidelines are followed.

This structure ensures that the initiative delivers long-term value rather than short-term relief.

Building Dignity Through Sustainable Livelihoods

At the heart of Hanabishi’s Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy is a belief that sustainable progress begins with dignity. By equipping small entrepreneurs with tools, training, and consistent demand, the program enables families to build resilience and plan for the future.

“At Hanabishi, we believe that sustainable progress is rooted in dignity,” Ong-Chua emphasized. “Through our Kapartner sa Kabuhayan advocacy, we express our commitment to supporting livelihood programs that enable people to thrive and build resilience so that they can shape their future with pride.”

For business leaders and CSR practitioners, Hanabishi’s continued support for Project Karinderya offers a strong example of how private sector partnerships can empower communities. When livelihood programs are thoughtfully designed, they can strengthen local economies, improve food security, and create lasting social impact.


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Vena Energy Improves Education and Livelihood on Talim Island


Creating lasting impact often starts with listening to what communities truly need. For Vena Energy, that insight led to a simple yet powerful solution on Talim Island. Through its “Seats for Sustainability” initiative, the renewable energy company recently turned over 1,000 handcrafted school armchairs to public elementary schools, addressing both education gaps and livelihood challenges in the process.

Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, officially completed the turnover in January 2026 through its Philippine subsidiary, Island Wind Energy Corp. The project supports schools in the municipalities of Binangonan and Cardona, two areas where access to basic school infrastructure remains a daily challenge.

Improving Learning Spaces Where It Matters Most

For many students on Talim Island, a comfortable learning environment is not always guaranteed. Limited resources and logistical hurdles often delay the delivery of school furniture, leaving classrooms overcrowded or under-equipped.

The “Seats for Sustainability” initiative directly responds to this need. A total of 1,000 DepEd-compliant armchairs were distributed to Kasile Elementary School, Bombong Elementary School, Kinagatan Elementary School, and Lambac Elementary School. These chairs are expected to benefit thousands of learners, offering proper seating that supports focus, posture, and overall classroom experience.

Turnover ceremonies were held on January 22 at the Kasile Covered Court in Binangonan and on January 23 at the Lambac Covered Court in Cardona. Local officials, school administrators, parents, and community members attended the events, underscoring the shared commitment to improving education outcomes on the island.

More Than a Donation, A Community Partnership

What makes this project stand out is how the chairs were made. Instead of purchasing furniture from outside suppliers, Vena Energy worked directly with the local community to produce every armchair.

Residents of Talim Island underwent carpentry and craftsmanship training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, or TESDA. After completing their training, these same individuals were employed by Vena Energy to build the 1,000 chairs from start to finish.

This approach ensured that the furniture met quality and safety standards while also creating meaningful income opportunities for local families. By turning skills training into paid work, the initiative helped strengthen the local economy and demonstrated how corporate social responsibility can move beyond one-time donations.

For many families, the project provided more than financial support. It gave parents and neighbors a sense of pride, knowing that their craftsmanship would directly benefit their own children and schools.

Supporting Education Through Sustainable Development

“Seats for Sustainability” reflects Vena Energy’s broader commitment to responsible development in its host communities. The company’s CSR strategy focuses on three key pillars: education, infrastructure development, and community well-being.

By involving residents in the solution, Vena Energy reinforces the idea that sustainable progress is most effective when communities are active participants rather than passive recipients.

“We believe that empowering a community means giving them the necessary tools to build their own future,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of The Philippines at Vena Energy. “This project is special because the fathers and neighbors of these students built the very chairs their children will sit on. It is a story of pride, resilience, and sustainability.”

The presence of IWEC representatives, local government units from Binangonan and Cardona, school leaders, and island residents during the turnover events highlighted the strong collaboration behind the project.

A Model for Meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility

At a time when businesses are increasingly expected to deliver measurable social impact, initiatives like “Seats for Sustainability” show how thoughtful planning can create multiple layers of value. Students receive better learning environments, parents gain livelihood opportunities, and communities benefit from skills development that can extend beyond a single project.

For business leaders and sustainability advocates, this initiative offers a practical example of how CSR programs can align with long-term development goals. Investing in education does not only mean building classrooms. It also means strengthening the people and systems that support learning every day.

Internal linking opportunity: Related articles on renewable energy projects in the Philippines, community-based CSR initiatives, or education-focused sustainability programs can further enrich this story for readers.

As Vena Energy continues to expand its presence in the region, projects like this serve as a reminder that clean energy companies can play a vital role not just in powering homes, but also in shaping stronger, more resilient communities.

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Jollibee Wins Company of the Year at Anvil Awards

Monday, February 2, 2026


Jollibee has always been more than just a fast food brand for Filipinos. It is comfort food, childhood memories, and a symbol of joy wrapped into one cheerful red bee. This year, that deep connection with Filipinos was once again recognized as Jollibee was named Company of the Year at the 61st Anvil Awards, one of the highest honors in Philippine public relations and communications.

The country’s number one fast food chain took home a total of 16 Anvil Awards, including one Grand Anvil, eight Gold Anvils, and six Silver Anvils. This impressive haul made Jollibee the most awarded single organization at this year’s ceremony, underscoring the brand’s consistent excellence in storytelling, advocacy, and audience engagement.

The Campaign That Led Jollibee’s Big Wins

At the heart of Jollibee’s recognition was the campaign “Bida Best, Bida Pinoy.” The multi-platform initiative earned the coveted Grand Anvil Award, along with three Gold Anvils and one Silver Anvil across categories such as marketing and brand communication, social media, influencer marketing, and experiential campaigns.

“Bida Best, Bida Pinoy” resonated strongly because it celebrated everyday Filipino victories. Instead of focusing only on big achievements, the campaign highlighted simple wins rooted in Filipino values like perseverance, kindness, and excellence. By honoring real-life moments that Filipinos could relate to, Jollibee strengthened its emotional bond with its audience.

The campaign’s success reflects how well the brand understands its market and how effectively it translates Filipino stories into meaningful content across multiple platforms.

Recognition That Goes Beyond Awards

For Jollibee, the Anvil Awards recognition is not just about trophies. According to Dorothy Ching, Vice President for Marketing of Jollibee Philippines, the wins represent something far more meaningful.

“Receiving 16 Anvil Awards, including Company of the Year and the Grand Anvil Award, is a great honor for Jollibee,” Ching shared. “More than the awards, this recognition shows our commitment to creating work that truly matters. Work that brings joy, makes a positive difference in our customers’ lives, and helps the communities we serve. We share this achievement with our dedicated Jollibee team and our agency partners, whose hard work and teamwork made this possible.”

This message reflects Jollibee’s long-standing philosophy of purpose-driven communication, where marketing is used not only to promote products but also to uplift communities and reinforce shared values.

Celebrating Values, Advocacy, and Innovation

Beyond “Bida Best, Bida Pinoy,” several other Jollibee initiatives were also recognized by the Anvil Awards jury.

The Kids Values Meal campaign earned two Gold Anvils and one Silver Anvil, highlighting the brand’s commitment to teaching positive values to children. Through advocacy, partnerships, and experiential marketing, the campaign reinforced lessons on kindness, responsibility, and good citizenship, proving that fast food brands can play a role in shaping young minds.

Jollibee also received Gold Anvil Awards for several notable programs. Project Abulug was recognized for corporate social responsibility efforts, while Project 1000: 1,000 Kilometers of Joy earned praise in the partnerships category. Another Gold Anvil went to Deliver Joy: The All-New Jollibee App, which showcased innovation in customer experience and digital engagement.

These wins demonstrate how Jollibee continues to evolve, combining technology, partnerships, and community involvement to stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

Creative Campaigns That Sparked Conversation

Jollibee’s creative range was further highlighted by multiple Silver Anvil Awards. One of these was Bee Earth’s Best Friend, an environment-focused campaign that promoted sustainability and environmental awareness.

The brand also earned two Silver Anvils for its collaboration with The Dessert Museum x Peach Mango Pie, a playful and immersive experience that merged food, art, and social media engagement. Another Silver Anvil went to Serving Joy and Music, an in-store initiative that brought together dining, music, and community connection.

These campaigns show how Jollibee continues to experiment with formats and experiences while staying true to its joyful brand identity.

Often referred to as the Oscars of Public Relations in the Philippines, the Anvil Awards are organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP). The annual event honors outstanding strategic public relations programs and communication initiatives across industries.

Jollibee’s strong showing at this year’s awards reflects a disciplined and values-driven approach to brand building. It also proves that Filipino brands can set benchmarks not only locally but on a global stage when guided by authenticity and purpose.

As Jollibee continues to grow both in the Philippines and internationally, being named Company of the Year reinforces its role as a brand that understands its audience, champions meaningful stories, and creates real impact beyond advertising.

A Celebration of Filipino Joy

At its core, Jollibee’s success at the 61st Anvil Awards is a celebration of Filipino creativity, values, and shared experiences. By turning everyday moments into powerful stories, the brand continues to remind Filipinos why it holds a special place in their hearts.
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Eastern Communications Named Cisco Preferred Partner

Wednesday, January 28, 2026


As Philippine businesses move deeper into cloud adoption, cybersecurity priorities, and AI-powered operations, the role of trusted technology partners has never been more critical. In this fast-changing digital environment, Eastern Communications has taken a major step forward by earning recognition as a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner, placing it among the first in the country to receive this designation ahead of Cisco’s global program rollout.

This recognition comes under the upcoming Cisco 360 Partner Program, which officially launches worldwide in January 2026. Being awarded Preferred Partner status early signals that Eastern Communications is not only aligned with Cisco’s future vision, but is already operating at the level required for the next phase of enterprise technology.

What the Cisco Preferred Partner Status Really Means

The Cisco 360 Partner Program represents one of Cisco’s biggest partner transformations in over two decades. The updated framework shifts focus from traditional product-based metrics to long-term value creation. Partners are now evaluated based on technical expertise, customer lifecycle management, service delivery, and their ability to help clients grow sustainably in an AI-driven economy.

Under this model, Cisco Preferred Partners are organizations that have demonstrated advanced technical skills, strong customer engagement practices, and mature lifecycle services. Eastern Communications’ inclusion in this group reflects years of investment in both technology and people.

For local enterprises, this designation translates to better outcomes. It means access to faster deployments, stronger cybersecurity foundations, and solutions designed for scalability and resilience. More importantly, it ensures that businesses are supported by a partner with deeper access to Cisco’s expertise and AI-ready network architectures.

A Milestone Built on Innovation and Consistency

For Eastern Communications, the recognition validates the strategic direction of its product and service roadmap.

“On behalf of Eastern, we are incredibly proud of our entire team's relentless drive for innovation,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications. “This recognition and new designation as Cisco’s Preferred Networking Partner signifies a validation of the quality and strategic relevance of our product roadmap, positioning us to deliver even more advanced, high-impact solutions to our customers.”

Earning the designation before the formal program rollout highlights Eastern Communications’ readiness for what lies ahead. It shows that the company is not preparing for the future of enterprise technology. It is already working within it.

Years of Collaboration with Cisco

Eastern Communications’ early elevation did not happen overnight. It is the result of sustained collaboration with Cisco since 2020, alongside continuous investment in workforce development, service maturity, and innovation-led solutions.

Over the years, this partnership has produced tangible results. Eastern Communications has been recognized as Cisco’s Top Small Business Partner of the Year in 2021 and later as Breakthrough Partner of the Year in 2024. These milestones reflect the company’s consistent performance across networking, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed connectivity solutions.

By strengthening its lifecycle services and deepening technical capabilities, Eastern Communications has positioned itself as a dependable partner for organizations navigating complex digital requirements.

Supporting Businesses Beyond Technology

Beyond commercial success, Eastern Communications has also focused on empowering the local business community. Through its thought leadership initiative, Access Eastern, the company provides organizations with insights on digital transformation, AI adoption, and evolving security challenges.

This approach reinforces Eastern Communications’ belief that technology should be paired with guidance and education. For many Philippine enterprises, especially those transitioning to AI-enabled operations, having access to both infrastructure and strategic insight is essential.

Meeting the Demands of an AI-Driven Economy

As more organizations integrate AI into their operations, expectations for technology partners are rising. The Cisco 360 Partner Program emphasizes the ability to deliver bundled, outcome-driven solutions that address real business challenges.

Eastern Communications’ Preferred Networking Partner status confirms its capability to meet these demands. Its service philosophy blends advanced technical expertise with personalized support, often described as combining “High Tech” with “High Touch.” This balance ensures that while solutions are cutting-edge, customer relationships remain hands-on and responsive.

The recognition also aligns with Eastern Communications’ 2025 commitment to exceeding customer expectations. By offering secure, future-ready solutions while maintaining close client engagement, the company continues to differentiate itself in a competitive ICT landscape.

A Trusted Partner with a Long-Term Vision

With over 145 years of service, Eastern Communications has evolved alongside the country’s technological landscape. From being a pioneer in telecommunications to becoming a trusted ICT solutions provider, the company continues to adapt to the needs of modern enterprises.

This latest recognition from Cisco reinforces Eastern Communications’ growing role as a strategic partner for businesses nationwide. As organizations navigate rapid digital change, the company remains focused on providing the expertise, infrastructure, and support needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.


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AXA Study Finds Mental Health Awareness Gaps in PH


Mental health has become a more open topic in the Philippines over the past few years. Conversations that once felt uncomfortable are now happening at home, in workplaces, and even online. Many Filipinos can already recognize terms like anxiety, burnout, and emotional distress. But a new study reveals a crucial truth. Awareness alone is not enough.

According to the 2025 AXA Mind Health Study, Filipinos rank among the most mentally health-aware populations globally. About 65 percent of respondents said they are aware of mental health issues. However, the same study uncovered a concerning gap. Only around one in three Filipinos actually know what steps to take when they or someone they care about experiences mental health challenges.

Awareness Without Action Can Be Risky

As the year begins, many Filipinos are setting goals centered on balance, wellness, and personal growth. Mental well-being is often included in these intentions. Yet despite good intentions, many people feel lost when it comes to practical action.

Paula Ferrer Cheng, Head of Research and Development at Mind You, AXA Philippines’ mental health partner, explains why this gap matters.

“It is not enough to know what anxiety looks like. People need to know what to do,” she said. “Awareness without action leaves people stuck, and in some cases, vulnerable to worsening conditions. That’s why education must go hand in hand with any awareness effort.”

Cheng warns that without knowing how to respond, early warning signs can easily be ignored. Over time, this can lead to deeper emotional struggles and even economic consequences, especially when mental health issues affect productivity and relationships.

Being Informed Makes a Real Difference

The AXA study also highlights a hopeful insight. Filipinos who consider themselves well-informed about mental health tend to experience better outcomes. These individuals are more likely to report positive mental well-being and are better equipped to seek help or support others when needed.

Ayman Kandil, CEO of AXA Philippines, emphasized the importance of moving beyond simple awareness.

“Acknowledging mental health is a vital first step, but progress happens when people know how to take action with the right support,” he shared. “Guided by our purpose to act for human progress, AXA is committed to helping Filipinos take meaningful steps toward better mind health through access to reliable tools and resources.”

Introducing the AXA Mind Health Self-Check Tool

To help close the gap between knowing and doing, AXA has introduced the Mind Health Self-Check, a free and anonymous digital tool designed to help individuals better understand their emotional well-being.

The tool provides users with a structured way to assess their mental state and access practical self-care resources. By answering a series of guided questions, users receive a clearer picture of their current emotional condition, making it easier to take proactive steps.

The Mind Health Self-Check evaluates three key areas of daily life. These include Current State of Mind, Skills and Beliefs, and Lifestyle. Using AXA’s proprietary methodology, the tool generates a single Mind Health Index score ranging from 0 to 100.

Understanding Your Mind Health Index Score

Once users complete the self-check, their score falls into one of four categories:

Flourishing, with a score of 68 and above, reflects strong emotional, social, and psychological well-being.

Getting By, with scores between 57 and 68, suggests a generally stable state with room for growth.

Languishing, which ranges from 43 to 57, points to reduced motivation and lower well-being that may require attention.

Struggling, with scores below 43, indicates distress across several areas and may be linked to emotional or psychosocial challenges.

These categories help users better understand where they are and what kind of support or self-care may be helpful.

Why Early Support and Connection Matter

Cheng notes that the findings of the AXA study mirror broader trends seen in the workplace. In a separate Mind You study involving over 15,000 employees, the most common reason people sought help was simply the need for someone to talk to. Emotional distress, rather than clinical diagnosis, drove 80 percent of help-seeking behavior.

This shows a growing cultural shift toward openness and empathy, especially in professional environments. It also reinforces the importance of safe spaces and early support before mental health concerns escalate.

Supporting Filipinos Beyond Awareness

AXA’s commitment goes beyond digital tools. Its health plans now include free mental health counseling, while its Health Max Elite critical illness plan provides coverage for select mental health conditions. These offerings aim to protect Filipinos holistically, addressing both physical and mental well-being at different life stages.

“When people delay seeking help because they do not know what to do, it affects both their personal lives and their livelihoods,” Kandil said. “Filipinos who are better informed are more capable of taking action and thriving.”

Turning Awareness Into Action

Mental health conversations in the Philippines have come a long way, but this study makes one thing clear. Awareness must lead to action. Tools like the AXA Mind Health Self-Check provide a starting point for Filipinos who want clarity, guidance, and practical next steps.

For those looking to build self-awareness and make informed decisions about their mental well-being, AXA’s holistic health initiatives offer accessible support that goes beyond awareness and into real-world care.

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Manulife and AC Health Expand Cancer Prevention Care


Talking about cancer can feel overwhelming for many Filipino families. It is often associated with fear, uncertainty, and high medical costs. Yet health experts agree that early detection and prevention can make a life-changing difference. This is exactly the gap that Manulife Philippines, Manulife China Bank Life, and AC Health aim to address through their new partnership focused on cancer awareness and care.

The collaboration brings together Manulife’s long-term commitment to helping Filipinos live healthier and longer lives with AC Health’s growing expertise in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. AC Health is one of the country’s leading integrated healthcare networks, with services that span clinics, hospitals, retail pharmacies, and pharmaceutical distribution. Together, they are working to make cancer education and comprehensive care more accessible, practical, and easier to navigate.

Why Cancer Prevention Matters More Than Ever

Cancer remains one of the most feared illnesses in the Philippines, according to Manulife’s Asia Care Survey. Many Filipinos still avoid screenings due to cost concerns, lack of information, or fear of diagnosis. This partnership aims to change that mindset by emphasizing prevention and early detection as essential steps toward better health outcomes.

Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Philippines, emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare.

“At Manulife, we believe that prevention and early detection are essential to helping Filipinos live healthier and better lives,” he said. “Our Asia Care Survey found that cancer remains one of the most feared diseases among Filipinos. This partnership with AC Health, which will provide cancer awareness, diagnosis and preventive programs, easier access to referral and care pathways, allows us to provide our customers with meaningful access to trusted cancer care.”

What This Partnership Means for Manulife Customers

Through ManulifeMOVE, Manulife Philippines’ flagship holistic health program, customers will gain access to cancer awareness initiatives and structured care pathways offered by AC Health. These services are delivered through Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, also known as HCCH, which specializes in comprehensive cancer care.

ManulifeMOVE participants can explore a full range of cancer-related services, starting from early detection and prevention to more advanced support. These include Cancer Concierge services, case management, treatment planning, and even second opinion consultations. The goal is to guide patients and their families every step of the way, reducing confusion and stress during an already challenging time.

Customers can also benefit from discounted cancer screening packages available nationwide. These include FIT tests for colon cancer, as well as screenings for cervical, lung, and breast cancer. By making these services more affordable and accessible, the partnership encourages Filipinos to take preventive action rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

AC Health’s Role in Expanding Quality Cancer Care

AC Health continues to strengthen its mission of bringing world-class healthcare closer to Filipino communities. With Healthway Cancer Care Hospital and a nationwide network of hospitals and clinics, AC Health focuses on patient-centered care that supports not just treatment, but also education and long-term wellness.

Paolo Borromeo, President and Chief Executive Officer of AC Health, shared how the partnership aligns with their vision.

“AC Health is committed to making world-class cancer care accessible to more Filipinos,” he said. “Through the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital and our nationwide network of hospitals and clinics, we continue to provide comprehensive, patient-focused support. This partnership with Manulife enables us to reach even more Filipino families, empowering them to take charge of their health through early detection and high-quality care.”

Reaching More Families Through Banking Partnerships

Manulife China Bank Life also plays a key role in expanding the reach of this initiative. By working closely with China Bank and China Bank Savings, cancer awareness and preventive care can be introduced to a broader customer base across the country.

Amy Gochuico, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife China Bank Life, highlighted the importance of scale and early engagement.

“This collaboration with AC Health will enable us at MCBL to bring cancer awareness, preventive screening, and access to care closer to our customers from China Bank and China Bank Savings,” she said. “Now more than ever, this scale matters. It allows us to help normalize preventive health conversations across the country, and strengthens our ability to walk alongside our customers not only when claims are made, but long before through education, prevention, and guidance.”

A Step Toward Healthier Filipino Futures

By combining insurance, healthcare expertise, and education, this partnership represents a meaningful shift toward preventive health for Filipino families. It encourages open conversations about cancer, supports early action, and offers structured care options that feel less intimidating and more human.

For those looking to learn more about ManulifeMOVE and its cancer care programs, detailed information is available on the official Manulife Philippines website. With initiatives like this, preventive care becomes not just a medical responsibility, but a shared effort toward healthier and longer lives.
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