Health and Wellness

SM Southmall in the late 90’s. Located in the water-challenged area of Las Pinas, the mall was the first to have a sewage treatment plant (STP) for water recycling. It opened to the public in 1995, followed by SM Bacoor in 1997, saving a significant volume of water otherwise used for flushing.

Since its first efforts, water stewardship at SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has advanced significantly. The programmatic Water for Tomorrow campaign goes beyond effective water management and recycling as part of its environmental sustainability plan.

For SM Supermalls, any significant investment in water security is a good chance to benefit people and the environment because of this pressing call to action to safeguard and preserve a vital resource.

Amplified impact

With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls high-impact yet practical water management systems and circularity practices build long-term capacity for future water disruptions and reflect the malls’ greater ecosystem.

A community solution. At the launch of SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility
(RTF), innovation meets sustainability and sets a benchmark for water efficiency.

Having introduced sewage treatment plants nearly three decades ago, well before any compliance requirements, SM Supermalls also made significant investments in efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies to prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. In 2023, the first rainwater treatment facility by a mall opened in Baguio to convert rainwater into another potable resource, alleviating pressure on the local water grid.

At a cultural level, SM Supermalls becomes a living sustainability classroom where mallgoers, employees, and tenant-partners are made aware of its water, waste, and energy programs. Partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and civic groups also sustain water conversations through the mall’s broad reach and are crucial to the sustainability agenda.

SM Cares engages communities, mallgoers, and tenants in water conservation initiatives
that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.

Embedding the message of water sustainability, SM Cares champions UN SDG6 – using every mall touchpoint and social media to create content on water conservation, access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for health and well-being

Water sustainability is a shared responsibility across all SM malls. SM Cares engages and promotes water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.

As a vital community hub, the malls promote the wider SM Green Movement campaign, empowering people to practice responsible water use.

The first mall to receive LEED Gold Certification in 2017, SM Aura’s wastewater treatment plant and smart water management technologies ensure responsible and efficient water use.

Building what matters, today

The vital significance of water promotes economic development and human activity. SM Prime’s holistic approach to water management prepares for future difficulties as climate issues intensify and impact water availability.

SM Supermalls helps larger partner-tenants with more than just compliance and profitability. In the same vein, it encourages the adoption of creative solutions by smaller companies and other stakeholders who rely on mall operations.

“The scale of what we are doing today for water is already proof that we are reaping the benefits of the innovative vision of our leadership,” says Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

“What makes our programs truly meaningful is how they bring people and purpose together. It creates a ripple effect of sustainability that reaches beyond our walls,” said Tan.  ###

From Left to Right: Mr. Al Reburiano (Key Account Manager of Galderma Philippines – Aesthetics), Ms. Joy Cabrera (Commercial Excellence Head of Galderma), Ms. Christine Legaspi (Marketing and Customer Education Training Manager), Mr. Andy Chou (Head of Commercial Operations of Galderma), Mr. Ferdinand “Louie” Roxas (General Manager of Galderma Philippines), Mr. Benedict Sy (President and Co-Founder of Avignon Clinic), Mr. Christopher Cachuela (CEO and founder of Avignon Clinic), June Christine Chio, M.D (Medical Operations Manager), Eufronia Apple Cruz, M.D (Aesthetic Physician of Avignon Clinic), Nancy Gabiota, M.D (Certified Dermatologist of Avignon Clinic) and Ms. Michelle De Jesus (Business Unit Head of Galderma Philippines – Aesthetics)

In skincare news that will be sure to cause a buzz in the Philippine regenerative aesthetics scene, Avignon Clinic and Galderma, a global leader in dermatology and aesthetics, announce a strategic partnership aimed at advancing the standard of injectable treatments in the country. This alliance underscores a shared commitment to patient-centric innovation, clinical safety, and education in aesthetic care.

As patients continue to seek safe, effective, and personalized treatments, the collaboration between Avignon Clinic and Galderma aims to respond with science-backed solutions that evolve with individual skin needs. The partnership will feature cutting-edge injectables: notably Sculptra®, Restylane® Kysse and Restylane® Skinboosters Translucent Vital, designed to deliver natural, long-lasting results without compromising comfort or safety.

“This partnership is rooted in a shared vision, to elevate aesthetic medicine through innovation and trust,” said Ferdinand “Louie” Roxas, General Manager of Galderma Philippines. “By working with an institution like Avignon, which mirrors our values and commitment to excellence, we can bring global dermatological solutions to local patients who deserve the very best.”

Andy Chou, Head of Commercial Operations of Galderma, also highlighted the significance of the collaboration in the broader regional landscape. “Our partnership with Avignon Clinic aligns perfectly with our vision to expand access to advanced regenerative aesthetic solutions across Asia-Pacific with strong medical expertise with a patient-first philosophy.”

With a reputation for state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on tailored patient experiences, Avignon Clinic reinforces its leadership through this strategic alignment. According to Christopher Cachuela, Founder and CEO of Avignon Clinic, “This collaboration with Galderma enables us to offer not just world-class treatments, using evidence-based products that deliver high patient satisfaction and ensure safety for our patients. Our clients can expect the most advanced, clinically tested injectable solutions to meet their changing skin goals.”

A New Era for Injectables in the Philippines

The partnership spotlights three key innovations:

Sculptra®, often described as the foundation for youthful-looking skin, is the only collagen stimulator made with PLLA-SCA, a unique formulation proven to stimulate type 1 collagen—the most abundant form in the skin. Results begin as early as 14 days post-treatment and can last over two years, offering natural-looking firmness, radiance, and elasticity over time.

Restylane® Skinboosters Translucent Vital is the only hyaluronic acid (HA) injectable clinically proven to enhance six aspects of skin quality. Patients can expect deep hydration, improved smoothness, reduced fine lines, even tone, reduced scarring, and a refreshed glow that lasts up to 15 months.

Restylane® Kysse is a hyaluronic acid (HA) lip filler designed specifically with movement in mind, made with Optimal Balance Technology (OBT). This advanced formulation allows for precise, natural-looking results that move harmoniously with every smile, and expression. Whether a more defined lip contour, improving lip symmetry, achieving naturally full lips, or smoothing perioral lines (commonly known as smoker’s lines), Restylane Kysse is the ideal choice for patients seeking personalized, expressive beauty that complements their unique facial features.

“More than just treatments, these injectables represent confidence,” said Michelle De Jesus, Business Head of Galderma Aesthetics Philippines. “We understand patients’ apprehensions about injectables, and that’s why we’re focused on education, transparency, and the use of rigorously tested products that deliver subtle, natural improvements.”

What’s Next: Forward-Thinking Aesthetic Programs

As part of this partnership, Avignon and Galderma will roll out a series of educational campaigns, exclusive treatment programs, and medical symposia to further demystify aesthetic injectables and empower patients to make informed choices.

“There’s a lot of misconceptions around injectables, because some think it’s about changing who you are. But at Avignon, our philosophy is enhancement, not alteration,” noted Benedict Sy, President of Avignon Clinic. “By partnering with Galderma, we’re confident in providing results that feel natural, look refined, and will age gracefully with our patients.”

This partnership signifies a mutual dedication to raising industry standards while nurturing the growing trust Filipino patients place in aesthetic medicine.

For more information about Avignon Clinic and its partnership with Galderma, follow Avignon Clinic and Galderma Aesthetics Philippines on Facebook, Avignon Clinic and Galaderma Aesthetics Philippines on Instagram or speak to an Avignon skin specialist today.

Together, Novo Nordisk and MedGrocer have launched ForwardMG by MedGrocer, the first cardiometabolic-focused ePharmacy in the Philippines that supports individuals with obesity and other chronic illnesses. With MedGrocer’s experience in digital healthcare and Novo Nordisk’s scientific leadership, the partnership seeks to make high-quality care more patient-centered, approachable, and less frightening. Through a single, integrated platform, ForwardMG offers a comprehensive care ecosystem, including access to physicians, medications, dietitians, and mental health assistance. Over a million Filipinos are already served annually by MedGrocer’s digitally connected healthcare solutions, and this collaboration furthers the company’s goal of revolutionizing chronic illness treatment in the nation. This program is also a component of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight (TAW) campaign, which aims to increase knowledge, fight stigma, and support evidence-based, well-informed ways to treating obesity. (L-R) Geraldine Perez, Novo Nordisk Philippines’ director of market access and business development; Wei Sun, Novo Nordisk Philippines’ general manager; Germaine Kaw, co-founder and co-CEO of MedGrocer; and Raphael Santos, MedGrocer’s wellness lead.

“Health is wealth.”

“Prevention is better than cure.”

Are these wise words considered to be old wives’ tales or should they serve as a guide for everyone’s lifestyle?

Although these two timeless sayings may appear to be taken for granted these days, it is indisputable that they still have far more value than just a grain of salt. There is so much golden wisdom in these sayings.

According to German Medical Doctor and Professor of Medicine Dr. Stephan Bischoff, an authority in, among others, gastroenterology and allergology, gut health can offer a new approach to preventive medicine if we learn more about how to achieve and maintain it.

Bischoff explains, “Current medical research is much more focused on the treatment of defined GI diseases rather than on the secondary or even primary prevention of disease. However, preventive medicine is increasingly perceived as being important in medical and economic terms, particularly in the field of gastroenterology.”

He adds, “Scientifically justified approaches to maintaining gut health and to preventing GI diseases are welcome” and “although this is an area with many open questions, we have started to learn that lifestyle characteristics, such as balanced diet, moderate but regular exercise and avoidance of chronic stress, but also defined products such as select pre- and probiotics, can support gut health.”

Given the now widely available studies not only of Dr. Bischoff but also of Dr. Shawn Manske and a lot of other authorities from America and Europe on the role of gut health in one’s overall health and the role of probiotics in the promotion of gut health, the golden wisdom embodied in the sayings “Health is wealth” and “Prevention is better than cure” cannot be overstated.

It’s good to start off one’s family in the healthy habits of eating a balanced diet or the proper mix of nutritious foods with adequate exercise, along with cleanliness, enough water intake and good sleeping habits, as taught in the early grades in most, if not in all, schools.

The inclusion of probiotics intake as part of preventive action where health maintenance is concerned has been gaining a wide patronage in many countries.  Research and development on probiotics had flourished over time (on prebiotics too).  In Japan, for example, since the period immediately preceding the 1930s, Dr Minoru Shirota of the Kyoto Imperial University School of Medicine University (now Kyoto University) started working on lactic acid bacteria culture, which he strengthened, and once ready, was tagged as Yakult and introduced as a probiotic health drink. Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. introduced Yakult in Japan and Taiwan in the first half of the 1930s, and by now, it has become a popular Probiotic  drink in as many as 40 countries and regions.

Yakult, a probiotic for the promotion of gut health, has by now become a daily  drink among many Filipinos.

“Gut health,” as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), “is a state of physical and mental well-being in the absence of gastrointestinal complaints that require the consultation of a doctor, in the absence of indications or risks of bowel disease, and in the absence of confirmed bowel disease.” (Constitution of the World Health Organization, New York 1946)

Dr. Bischoff says in his report, “Gut health can offer a new approach to preventive medicine if we learn more about how to achieve and maintain it. Current medical research is much more focused on the treatment of defined GI diseases rather than on the secondary or even primary prevention of disease.”

These are among his conclusive statements: “Preventive medicine is increasingly perceived as being important in medical and economic terms, particularly in the field of gastroenterology. Therefore, scientifically justified approaches to maintaining gut health and to preventing GI diseases are welcome.”

Dr. Minoru Shirota devoted his life to research and development of the gut-health enhancing strain of beneficial bacteria: Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS). The resulting product, Yakult Probiotic drink, has gained international patronage. This product was formally introduced here in the Philippines in the year 1978. A Yakult plant was built in Calamba, Laguna and has for almost five decades now been serving the daily probiotic requirements of Filipino households.

Yakult has gained popularity not just in Luzon where the country’s capital is located but also in Visayas and Mindanao, and so, to better serve Filipino families—wherever they are—Yakult Philippines decided to put up another plant in Misamis Oriental.

According to Yakult Philippines, Inc. President, Mr. Alberto R. Dy Sun, the recently inaugurated second Yakult plant is located in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental. It is aptly called Yakult El Salvador Manufacturing Company Plant or YESMC Plant, for short, and Mr. Dy Sun is its Chairman.

He revealed during the interview, which took place on the occasion of the new plant’s opening on June 5, that “the plant occupies a total floor area of 25,583 sq meters, its construction area around 18,709 sq meters.” He also discussed Yakult’s army of good bacteria, which includes 8 billion live Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) in each bottle to safeguard each customer’s digestive tract.

Yakult has been a popular health drink for ninety years in various regions of the world, and its effectiveness as a gut-healthy beverage has demonstrated its reliability over time. It is better to start with the stomach if you want to be healthy because it has been shown that gut health influences overall health. Since prevention is always preferable to treatment, it is ideal to avoid any illness that affects the body, including the brain, as some other research has shown.

Dr. Antonio Sison, the only double board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist in the Philippines, discusses the science behind ExoMind and mental resilience.

From skincare to self-care, Luminisce Holistic Skin Innovations takes its wellness philosophy to the next level with the launch of ExoMind, a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment designed to support mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

Using targeted magnetic pulses, ExoMind stimulates key areas of the brain—particularly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)—to help reduce anxiety, lift mood, and restore mental energy. The treatment is fast, comfortable, and has no downtime, making it ideal for today’s fast-paced lifestyles.

Patients experience improvements in sleep quality, stress levels, emotional eating, and concentration, making it a holistic tool for those experiencing burnout, brain fog, or emotional imbalance.

Dr. Kaycee Reyes, Preventive Medicine Doctor and Founder of Luminisce.

“At Luminisce, we believe beauty starts from within—and that includes the mind,” shares Dr. Kaycee Reyes, founder and medical director of Luminisce. “With ExoMind, we’re able to offer a treatment that supports both emotional and physical wellness. When your mind is well, your whole life begins to glow.”

A guest experiences ExoMind firsthand—a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment designed to support mental clarity, reduce stress, and promote emotional wellness. The session is safe, comfortable, and requires no downtime.

Guests were given an immersive look into the treatment, including a talk by Dr. Antonio Sison, the only double board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist in the Philippines. His rare expertise offered a unique perspective on how ExoMind bridges physical and emotional wellness. “Mental health is a luxury we can no longer afford to ignore. ExoMind allows us to take a proactive, science-driven approach in supporting emotional resilience and brain function—without medication or downtime,” said Dr. Sison.

Also in attendance was Vic Perez, General Manager of BTL Aesthetics, the manufacturer of ExoMind. “We’re proud to partner with Luminisce in bringing ExoMind to the Philippines. This treatment is backed by science, global regulatory approvals, and years of innovation in neurostimulation,” said Perez. “The results we’ve seen globally—in improving symptoms of depression, anxiety, even binge eating—are life-changing.”

Scientifically backed and globally recognized, ExoMind is FDA-cleared in the United States for the treatment of depression. It is also approved by Health Canada and CE-marked in Europe for treating depression, anxiety symptoms, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and excessive eating disorders.

The ExoMind device by BTL Aesthetics uses magnetic pulse technology to stimulate specific areas of the brain linked to mood, focus, and emotional regulation. It is FDA-cleared, Health Canada-approved, and CE-marked.

Luminisce is the first to launch ExoMind in the Philippines, expanding its suite of high-performance treatments with a strong focus on holistic, internal wellness.

“Because mental clarity is the new luxury,” said Dr. Kaycee Reyes, founder of Luminisce. “We are proud to offer something that helps people feel lighter, clearer, and more present in their everyday lives.”

Book a consultation with a Luminisce today by calling 0977-804-4601 to get your own bespoke customized treatment plan.

Luminisce provides a wide range of skincare solutions through its BGC, The Podium, Ortigas and Molito Alabang branches. To know more, visit Luminisce’s website at https://luminisce.com/ or follow https://www.instagram.com/luminisce_official/

Photo for illustrative purposes only.

Four out of ten Filipino individuals are currently obese, according to a new study from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI). Health trends have changed significantly, as evidenced by this chart. As lifestyle changes, a rise in processed food intake, and a decline in physical activity lead to health problems for future generations, children and adolescents also confront difficulties. while its great prevalence, obesity is sometimes overlooked in favor of other health issues, while being a major contributing factor to a number of severe chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and several types of cancer1.

Novo Nordisk, a global initiative leading the battle against obesity through awareness, education, and advocacy, is pleased to begin its ‘Truth About Weight’ campaign in the Philippines in recognition of the pressing nature of this public health issue. With a dedication to bettering patient outcomes and 25 years of focused research on obesity treatment worldwide, Novo Nordisk wants to change the stigma associated with obesity to one of understanding and support.

As I had the opportunity to attend their event, I felt genuinely grateful and inspired to learn about the incredible campaign they have launched surrounding various health issues. It was truly enlightening to see how they approach these topics with such dedication, ensuring that each concern is addressed thoughtfully and backed by accurate, well-researched information. Their commitment to raising awareness and promoting public understanding is greatly commendable.

“Obesity is one of the most misunderstood and undertreated health challenges we face today. It is  not merely a lifestyle choice, it is a pressing serious chronic disease,” stated Wei Sun, General  Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “Through the Truth About Weight campaign, we seek to  empower Filipinos with accurate information and helpful resources to help them understand obesity  as a disease and encourage them to access the care they need.”

Obesity is a Disease

At the heart of the Truth About Weight campaign is a vital message: obesity is not the result of  poor lifestyle choices alone; it is a chronic, complex disease influenced by genetics, environmental  conditions, hormones, and psychological factors.²³ Dr. Ma. Corazon del Mundo, psychiatrist and  diplomate member of Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA), further explains, “Unfortunately,  weight stigma and misinformation are deeply ingrained in our society. Individuals affected by  obesity often face shame and judgment, not only externally but also within healthcare  environments. This stigma can prevent them from seeking the treatment they deserve.”

The Truth About Weight campaign seeks to combat misinformation and the stigma surrounding  obesity. Central to this initiative is the Truth About Weight website, which serves as a  comprehensive resource hub. It offers scientific insights into the nature of weight and obesity, a  free weight health risk assessment, educational tools, inspiring stories to promote understanding,  and resources that guide individuals to seek professional help.

“Our goal is to shift the conversation from blame to understanding and from stigma to support,” Dr.  Cyrus Pasamba, senior medical manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines added. “Obesity transcends  mere aesthetics; it is a legitimate disease that warrants serious attention, robust resources, and,  above all, compassion.”

A Mature Mexican Woman Working Out

Novo Nordisk calls upon all Filipinos to proactively engage in their health by visiting Truth About  Weight website. This site not only provides a free health risk assessment but also access to  reliable, science-based information about obesity. Filipinos are encouraged to share insights from  the campaign with family and friends and to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns  regarding their weight.

“The silence surrounding obesity must end. It is a disease that we must treat with urgency and  seriousness,” Wei Sun concluded. “The Truth About Weight campaign is more than an awareness  initiative; it is a movement toward change, dignity, and improved health for every Filipino.”

Visit the Truth About Weight website. to learn more about the campaign and to have access to helpful resources.