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Schneider Electric promotes energy saving as the foundation of a resilient company

  • Schneider Electric emphasizes that Philippine businesses can no longer treat energy efficiency as optional. Companies must act now to remain competitive and sustainable.
  • While 98% of Philippine businesses have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking meaningful action.
  • Schneider Electric’s three-step approach to strategize, digitize, and decarbonize offers a clear path to closing this gap.

Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference hosted by the Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, Inc. (PE2) held last March 20 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has reaffirmed its call for Philippine businesses to prioritize energy efficiency as the quickest and most economical path to sustainability, as rising energy costs and climate change continue to have an impact on businesses.

Energy efficiency is now a need for companies looking to be resilient and competitive, according to Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines.

“In the Philippines, we have seen an increase in the Green Impact Gap by 5 points since last year’s survey, reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to meet them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can work together to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can adopt today.”

Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the misalignment between companies’ declared commitment towards their sustainability goals and the tangible actions to implement sustainable development.

Energy Efficiency: A Business Imperative

Schneider Electric reports that rising climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already impacting 41% of businesses in Asia. Moreover, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is expected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and amplifying the need for smarter energy management.

Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from the PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, stating that businesses could save billions in operational costs while cutting carbon emissions. However, he noted that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and mainstreaming sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives in their day-to-day operations.

At the same conference, Schneider Electric outlined a three-step approach for businesses to effectively close the Green Impact Gap: Strategize, Digitize, and Decarbonize.

  • Strategize: Develop a clear roadmap to sustainability with measurable targets.
  • Digitize: Leverage data and automation to monitor and optimize energy consumption.
  • Decarbonize: Implement solutions that drive emissions reduction and long-term energy savings.

By adopting these steps, businesses can unlock financial and operational benefits. Schneider Electric’s research found that energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also enhance property value and business reputation. Moreover, 42% of Philippine-based companies surveyed recognized new business opportunities arising from improved energy efficiency.

Leaders from the energy, sustainability, and government sectors gathered at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, to drive action on accelerating energy efficiency in the Philippines

A Call to Action for Philippine Enterprises

Schneider Electric, alongside other representatives from both the public and private sector, reaffirmed its commitment to helping businesses navigate the energy transition through advanced solutions and strategic partnerships. “The path to sustainability is clear. Companies that act now will be the ones that thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to turn commitments into real impact,” Catane emphasized.

The private sector is under growing pressure to adopt energy-saving measures as a result of legislative frameworks like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. Adopting these solutions is crucial for long-term corporate sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines, according to Schneider Electric and industry executives who spoke at the conference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 31, 2025 by
Food, Lifestyle

Coca-Cola Philippines and its partners use the iSTAR program to empower 2,000 women entrepreneurs

iSTAR graduates at the graduation ceremony in the University of Negros Occidental Recoletos Gymnasium.

On February 1, 2025, Coca-Cola Philippines’ longstanding partner, the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), held the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony for the iSTAR Program in Bacolod, Negros Occidental. Coca-Cola Philippines’ dedication to economic development, especially for women in underserved communities, is in line with this milestone.

2,000 graduates who enrolled in person or electronically came together for the graduation ceremony, which reaffirmed the program’s contribution to the advancement of women entrepreneurs across the country.

This was a significant accomplishment for the iSTAR Program in Western Visayas, especially in Region VI, emphasizing its function in giving business owners the abilities, know-how, and self-assurance they need to launch and grow their enterprises.

“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola Philippines has been refreshing the lives of Filipinos and making a positive difference in our communities, said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

The event was attended by key TESDA (Technical Education & Skills Development Authority) officials, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo R. Colombo, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office Floramel Joy C. Songsong, Chief of the National Training Center for Women Mylene H. Somera, and TESDA regional and provincial representatives.

Strengthening partnerships for greater impact

iSTAR graduate and Sari-sari Store and Bakery owner Catherine Gallano, shared how the program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge for her entrepreneurial success. Through the initiative’s digital learning platform, she also gained confidence in financial management and customer engagement, allowing her to expand her business.

“The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial as it empowers women like me to run a sustainable business, allowing us to earn a living and enhance our quality of life”, she shared.

iSTAR graduate Catherine Gallano proudly showcases her baked goods in her bakery, applying the skills and knowledge gained from the program to expand her business.

The success of the iSTAR Program is driven by the strong collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and the NWTF. TESDA has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach by providing training and certification, as well as making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program, ensuring more aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from the initiative.

“You get addicted to learning; you get addicted to [the] growth of learning for yourself and sharing your learning through training others as well. Spread the message: TESDA is here to make sure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. We are here to ensure that you have the skills that you need for whatever you or your family aspires for. That we are here to help you from training to [trabaho],” said Sec. Benitez.

The NWTF has been instrumental in implementing iSTAR in grassroots communities. Its commitment to championing entrepreneurship has played a key role in ensuring that program participants—especially women—receive the necessary training and support to sustain their businesses.

“Loans are just part of it; we need loans to have capital, but the heart of Project Dungganon is to support, maximize, and protect the business. iSTAR is one of the programs Dungganon delivers in order to capacitate our members to better their businesses,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at the NWTF.

Expanding support through Centers for Entrepreneurship

Launched in 2020, the iSTAR Program is a free entrepreneurship training initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for starting and managing retail businesses through digital platforms.

In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas under the iSTAR Program. These hubs serve as sustainable spaces for ongoing training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that small business owners have access to resources that help them thrive.

“To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your “go-to” spaces for continuous learning, business mentoring, and exploring new opportunities for innovation. As graduates, you are always welcome to visit the NWTF CFE, where you’ll find support and guidance to help you grow and sustain your businesses,” Dela Torre added.

Visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub at https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability for additional details about the iSTAR Program.

 

 

 

March 31, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

In Shillong, what is brewing? Return of the ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp: Three Regions, One Cultural Canvas, Ten Days

  • The camp brings artists from ASEAN, Timor Leste, and India into a shared creative space, where ideas will flow as freely as paint and conversations bridge cultures
  • The masterpieces created during the camp will first be displayed in a special exhibition in Shillong, followed by showcases in New Delhi and Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair for 2025

From March 29 to April 7, 2025, the third edition of the ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp (AIAC) will take place in Shillong, bringing together 21 artists from ASEAN Member States, Timor Leste, and India for a 10-day residency. In accordance with the decisions made and approved at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and India’s all-encompassing strategic partnership in the field of culture, the camp, which is being organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in partnership with Seher, will commemorate ten years of India’s Act East Policy by utilizing art as a medium for cultural dialogue.

First conceptualized in 2017 by Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder-Director of SEHER, AIAC has emerged as a key platform for cultural engagement between India and Southeast Asia. Unlike traditional diplomatic gatherings, it will offer a more intimate setting, where artists from different regions, tucked away together, will spend days exchanging techniques, experiences, and perspectives over steaming cups of tea. The focus is not solely on the stunning works they will create – though those are sure to impress – but on the quiet, meaningful exchanges that will echo long after the camp wraps up. Over ten days, artists will create original works, take part in workshops on classical dance, music, and handicrafts, and explore India’s artistic traditions in a collaborative setting. They will also hold interactive sessions with local art students in Shillong and conduct a special workshop at a local school, where visiting ASEAN artists will share their skills and experiences with young learners.

Some of the ASEAN artists taking part in the camp are Ms. Chong Ai Chezer (Singapore), Mr. Abilio da Conceição Silva (Timor Leste), Mr. Panich Phupratana (Thailand), Mr. Phonesith Yernsensuly (Lao PDR), Ms. Mohana Kumara Velu (Malaysia), Ms. Lou Lim (Philippines), Ms. Nwe Ni Soe (Myanmar), Mr. Ros Norak (Cambodia), along with Indian artists Ms. Mrudula Kunatharaju (multi-disciplinary artist), Ms. Mousumi Biswas (realistic figurative paintings), Ms. Japani Shyam Dhurwey (Gond artist), Mr. Kazi Nasir (realistic contemporary nature and wildlife paintings), Mr. Prakash Joshi (Phad artist), Mr. Aayush (wash painting), Mr. Vinay Kumar (Cheriyal artist), Mr. Bappa Chitrakar (Kali Ghat artist), Mr. Chandan Bez Baruah (Postmodernism in Landscape), Mr. Raphael Warjri (acrylic painting).

During the camp, the artists will talk about various forms of painting and their shared cultural histories in various styles and forms of art, initiated and guided by the esteemed Mentors of the Camp—Samindranath Majumdar, Tanmoy Samanta, and Yogendra Tripathi. Each artist will create one work of art, representing different styles—contemporary, modern, traditional, impressionist—while still carrying the essence of their own culture and history.

Mr. Sanjeev Bhargava said, “This camp feels like a heartbeat shared across borders. A gathering where artists don’t just meet, but truly see each other. It’s special because it’s messy and real: paint-stained hands, late-night stories, and the kind of laughter that bridges languages. For me, it’s about watching strangers become family through art, carrying their traditions and dreams into something new, something that lingers in your chest long after the brushes are down.”

A virtual introductory session on March 25 will bring the artists together ahead of the residency. The official press conference and launch of the camp will take place in Delhi on March 29, before the camp moves to Shillong. The event will close with a ceremony featuring cultural performances and an exhibition, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Before traveling to Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair for 2025, for a week-long exhibition, the camp’s creations will be initially seen in a two-day display in New Delhi. By employing art to foster closer regional and cultural relations, AIAC keeps expanding the ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations with every edition.

 

 

 

 

March 27, 2025 by
Lifestyle

SPX Express and Shopee Collaborate on Disaster Preparedness Initiatives

Working together with local government units (LGUs) and nonprofit organizations, Shopee, the top e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and SPX Express partnered from December 2024 to February 2025 to improve disaster preparedness and supply emergency necessities to communities in Meycauayan, Calamba, Naga, and Mandaluyong. This partnership ensured prompt and efficient aid distribution.

Shopee and SPX Express supplied relief bags filled with food, medicine, and hygiene necessities donated by brand partners such as Unilever, Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI), Pharmaton Energy +, Hapee, Lysol, Tiny Buds, Sofy, Mamypoko, and Monde Nissin in order to meet the immediate needs of communities during emergencies. In order to improve emergency response efforts, SPX also gave rescue boats to local government units (LGUs). Shopee and SPX representatives, in addition to volunteers, actively participated in all phases of the relief efforts, from packaging to distribution, showcasing their dedication to volunteerism and positive social impact.

Local officials from each community expressed their support and appreciation for Shopee and SPX’s initiatives, emphasizing the crucial role these donations play in improving mobility and providing support during times of crisis. Mayor Ross Rizal of Calamba dubbed the donations as a ‘big step towards more efficient disaster response.’ At the same time, Councilor Charisse Marie Abalos-Vargas said that the donated goods would directly aid families currently seeking refuge in the Mandaluyong Evacuation Building.

Former Vice President and Angat Pinas, Inc. Chairperson Leni Robredo also expressed her gratitude for the donations towards her hometown of Naga City, recognizing Shopee and SPX’s support in strengthening the disaster response efforts of Angat Buhay, a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting communities across the country.

“At Shopee, our commitment to supporting communities extends beyond our online platform,” says Vincent Lee, Head of Shopee Philippines. “Serving local communities is central to our mission. Through our Shopee Bayanihan program, we work closely with LGUs and other organizations to proactively address urgent needs, particularly in disaster-prone areas. We want Filipinos to know Shopee will be there for them, providing essential aid during emergencies and disasters.”

SPX Express Philippines Head Martin Yu also emphasized SPX Express’ commitment to providing reliable service even in times of disaster. “As a leading logistics provider, we recognize our critical role in ensuring the swift and efficient delivery of emergency relief to affected communities. These rubber boats serve as vital assets for mobility during typhoons, enabling effective disaster response. By donating them to flood-prone areas, we reinforce our dedication to providing uninterrupted logistical support to Filipinos, regardless of the challenges.”

Shopee and SPX Express are still dedicated to using programs rooted in the spirit of bayanihan to elevate Filipinos, especially during times of crisis. These initiatives also help them provide heartfelt service and cement their alliances with brands that share their values.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 27, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Rex Education Celebrates 75 Years of Commitment to Education at AECON 2025

Ms. Amy Berry (Director, EngagED Consulting, Author of Reimagining Student Engagement: From Disrupting to Driving) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education)

Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing.

Gathering of Change Makers in Education

Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every learner and educator.

In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera highlighted that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. He stated, “This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners.”

Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of preparing Filipino learners for an increasingly digital world. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to developing future-ready learners by integrating technology, enhancing critical thinking, and strengthening public-private collaborations.

One key session featured a panel discussion with respected education experts and policymakers:

  • Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director o of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM
  • Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines and former DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching
  • Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC)
  • Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA)

Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the discussion focused on improving learning outcomes in the Philippines. It emphasized evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability among education leaders, and the importance of authentic assessments to accurately measure student progress.

In the afternoon, Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, led a plenary session on student engagement. She challenged traditional approaches and introduced innovative methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences.

A Moment of Gratitude and the Symphony of Learning

The second day of AECON began with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Parañaque, reflecting on the journey of Rex Education and its mission to support Filipino education.

Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education), Dr. Karol Mark Yee (Executive Director, 2nd Congressional Commission on Education – Phils) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education)

After the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the Symphony of Learning Solutions, a suite of educational resources supporting lifelong learning, from early childhood to professional development. This initiative highlights REX’s commitment to integrating assessment, intervention, and enrichment for educators and learners.

Buhain compared learning to a symphony, where every effort, resource, and voice comes together to create something meaningful. He assured, “The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when they are necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners.”

The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, learning instruments, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments to ensure well-rounded education at every stage.

A Unified Pledge for Quality Education

As the congress concluded, a spirit of unity filled the hall as attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, this solemn moment reaffirmed the commitment of educators and education stakeholders to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners.

75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment

Reaching 75 years is a testament to Rex Education’s dedication to every learner and educator it has served. The journey continues.

Dr. Edizon Fermin (Vice President for Academic Affairs, National Teachers College), Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo (Professor, UP College of Education, Former Undersecretary of Curriculum & Instruction, DepEd), Ms. Rhodora Angela Ferrer (Executive Director, Private Education Assistance Committee – PEAC), Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education), Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada (Legal Counsel for COCOPEA, Managing Partner of Estrada & Aquino Law, Education Law expert) and Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education)

In his message of gratitude, REX Chairman and President Atty. Dominador Buhain thanked all the Edukampyons and shared, “Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds… We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner.”

As Rex Education looks beyond 75 years, its commitment remains—to be the trusted katuwang of every Filipino educator, school, and learner, fostering lifelong learning for generations—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.

 

 

 

 

 

March 25, 2025 by
Lifestyle

Paynamics x Sterling Bank of Asia: Empowering Businesses Together!

Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) and Paynamics Technologies have renewed their partnership to enhance the accessibility of digital payments for SBA’s business clients. Attending the event were (L-R) SBA Retail Banking Group Head and EVP Ralph Cadiz, along with President and CEO Cecilio San Pedro; Paynamics CEO Mylene Chua-Magleo, Board Member Esther Magleo, CFO Ronald Magleo, and Chief Revenue Officer Allan Condino.

We’re thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with Sterling Bank of Asia! Through this collaboration, Sterling Bank will introduce Paynamics’ cutting-edge payment solutions to its merchant clients—helping businesses streamline transactions and drive growth.

Together, we’re making digital payments more accessible, seamless, and efficient for merchants across industries. This is just the beginning of financial innovation at work!

Stay tuned for more updates as we build the future of payments!

March 25, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Sterling Bank of Asia Grants Php 370 Million Credit Facility to Skyro

Sterling Bank of Asia and Skyro solidified their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for a ₱370 million credit facility. This strategic collaboration aims to contribute to economic growth and financial inclusivity in the Philippines.
Standing (L to R): SBA Marketing Assistant Ms. Patricia Cabas, SBA Relationship Manager Ms. Jessa Mahinay, Skyro Head of Funding Ms. Victoria Tupaz, and Skyro Treasurer Mr. Vicente Dela Cruz.
Seated (L to R): SBA Senior Vice President Commercial Lending 1 Head Mr. Jose Ison, Jr., SBA Executive Vice President for Commercial Lending Group Head Mr. Benson Hari-Ong, Skyro Co-Founder and Co-CEO Mr. Nasim Aliev and Skyro President Mr. Anthony Co
Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) has granted a Php 370 million credit facility to Skyro, one of the fastest-growing fintech companies specializing in financial lending services. This strategic partnership aims to support Skyro’s expansion and enhance its ability to provide seamless digital lending services to consumers nationwide.
“We are committed to empowering fintech companies like Skyro, which are driving financial inclusion and digital transformation in the Philippines,” said Mr. Jose S. Ison, Jr., Senior Vice President of the Commercial Lending Group of Sterling Bank of Asia. “By extending this credit facility, we reaffirm our confidence in Skyro’s vision and its potential to reshape the financial technology landscape.”
The Php 370 million credit line will enable Skyro to scale its operations, expand its digital lending infrastructure, and strengthen its capabilities. This funding will accelerate Skyro’s mission of providing fast and accessible financial lending solutions to underserved communities.
“We are grateful for the trust and support of Sterling Bank of Asia,” said Mr. Nasim Aliev, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Skyro. “This credit facility will help us drive financial accessibility and continue delivering secure, efficient, and customer-centric digital lending solutions.”
Sterling Bank of Asia remains committed to supporting the growth of the fintech sector by fostering collaborations that drive economic progress and financial inclusivity in the Philippines.
March 25, 2025 by
Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

A Female Leader’s Path to Empowerment and Health

As a woman who has broken barriers in business, Rebecca Bustamante knows that true success begins with good health—and her journey with Fullerton Health proves it.

Among important Philippine sectors and companies, Rebecca Bustamante, CEO of Asia CEO Events, has long been a formidable presence. She has cleared the ground for professionals to take control of their lives and forge their own route to success as a motivational keynote speaker and the host of the nation’s biggest business forums and summits.

She is undoubtedly one of the best representations of what it means to be an empowered woman—one who inspires and brings about change while assisting others in achieving success. Beyond her career achievements, however, Bustamante is aware that taking control of one’s health is the first step towards true empowerment, and for her, working with Fullerton Health has been an essential component of that process.

With the intention of taking control of her health, she turned to Fullerton Health, a leading vertically integrated healthcare platform in Asia with a proven track record of providing enterprise healthcare solutions. As a woman who believes in the power of preventive care, she shares her story of health challenges and triumphs—all fueled by her trust in Fullerton’s executive health screening facility.

A Wake-Up Call to Prioritize Health

Bustamante’s journey to prioritizing wellness began with a moment that changed everything. In 2005, at just 38 years old, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and only given six months to live. The news was devastating.

“I was paralyzed, I couldn’t function,” she recalls. “It was the biggest turning point of my life.”

Against all odds, Bustamante survived. But the experience left a lasting impact, reshaping her entire perspective on health. She realized that no matter how successful one becomes, it all means nothing if one’s health is compromised. That wake-up call made her more intentional about wellness, sparking a lifelong commitment to proactive healthcare and preventive measures.

Since then, taking care of her health has been at the forefront of her priorities. She knew that while she had achieved great success, maintaining her well-being was just as important as building her career.

Discovering Fullerton Health

In her search for a healthcare provider that aligned with her commitment to long-term wellness, she was introduced to Fullerton Health by her colleague and friend, Carmie De Leon, who happens to be Radlink Philippines’ Country General Manager and EHS Lead. Fullerton’s executive health screening offered a seamless, thorough, and personalized approach—something Bustamante knew was essential in maintaining her well-being.

“Upon learning about it, my husband and I were excited to experience Fullerton Health because we wanted to see if we were really looking after ourselves properly,” Bustamante explains. She added that her first executive check-up exceeded all expectations.

“It’s truly a five-star experience,” Rebecca shares. “We didn’t have to wait for the whole day just to get our results because Fullerton Health is efficient and personalized. In just three hours, we completed a full-body assessment. It felt like a business-class health experience.”

Taking Charge of Her Health with Fullerton

Through Fullerton’s comprehensive executive check-up, Bustamante, along with her husband, gained valuable insights into her health—all consolidated into one detailed report and thoroughly explained by Fullerton Health’s doctors. These results served as a guide for her wellness journey, helping her make necessary lifestyle adjustments.

“Fullerton doesn’t just give you test results—they guide you on what to improve and maintain,” Bustamante says. “It’s not just about diagnosing problems but about taking control of your health before issues arise.”

She also emphasized the convenience and efficiency of Fullerton’s services, which allowed her to focus on making meaningful lifestyle changes while balancing the demands of being a CEO and a mother. She shared how her experience with Fullerton Health made her realize the importance of treasuring time with family.

“If you love your family, you owe it to them to stay healthy. You don’t want to be a burden. Instead, you want to be present for your children and grandchildren,” she emphasizes.

When asked what advice she would give to others looking to take charge of their health, she states: “Don’t wait for a wake-up call. Your health is your greatest investment. Fullerton Health has given me clarity, confidence, and control over my well-being—and that’s priceless.”

A Commitment to a Healthier Future

Bustamante demonstrates through Fullerton Health that self-care is the first step towards real achievement. Her experience serves as evidence that putting one’s health first can result in a more fulfilled and capable life.

Her experience with Fullerton Health, which went beyond a simple executive check-up, strengthened her conviction that the best care is preventive care. She now looks forward to her yearly physicals, viewing them as a necessary step on her path to a better, more independent life rather than a chore.

 

 

 

March 21, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world of 2024

Officially, Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world for 2024. Based on 2024 volume sales data across important appliance categories, Euromonitor International Limited has awarded this honor. The brand’s dominant position in the worldwide market has been cemented by its unwavering dedication to innovation, quality, and customer happiness.

Haier has continuously fulfilled the demands of contemporary homes with an emphasis on energy efficiency, technology-driven solutions, and user-friendly designs. Customers all across the world have responded favorably to its innovative appliances and leadership in smart home integration, which has helped the brand keep its top spot in the market.

The claim, “Haier is the number one brand globally in major appliances in 2024,” is backed by extensive research conducted by Euromonitor International Limited. This certification highlights Haier’s dominance in home laundry appliances, large cooking appliances, microwaves, and refrigeration appliances. The ranking is based on unit share and 2024 volume sales data across retail channels, builder merchants, and the construction sector. This recognition reinforces the trust that millions of consumers place in Haier’s products every day.

Adding to its credibility, this claim has been reviewed and approved by the Ad Standards Council (ASC), ensuring transparency and accuracy in its communication. The ASC REFERENCE CODE: H0232P031325H further validates this recognition, providing consumers with confidence in Haier’s industry leadership.

Haier’s rise to the top has been driven by its commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centric solutions. From smart refrigerators with AI-powered features to high-efficiency washing machines, the brand continues to introduce groundbreaking technology that enhances everyday living. Sustainability and energy efficiency also remain key priorities, as Haier focuses on creating appliances that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Haier continues to set industry standards, and this recognition as the top worldwide brand for major appliances is another significant milestone. Haier continues to lead the way in contemporary home solutions thanks to its continuous commitment to innovation and quality.

More Creation, More Possibilities.

 

March 20, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Collaboration fosters resilience, as demonstrated by the National Resilience Council’s colloquium

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of
support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on
progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

In order to further the interrelated goals of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, and other international commitments, the Philippines’ National Resilience Council (NRC), a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, brought together national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector for the event “From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations.”

As part of the NRC’s Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative, the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium featured updates and developments from participating cities and municipalities. Through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs, this strategy allows firms to participate in risk reduction rather than just catastrophe relief. AAC encourages teamwork to create safer, more resilient communities by giving local governments more authority.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the
academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for civil service
organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress
towards disaster resilience.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

At the National Resilience Council (NRC) Colloquium, local government units in the Adopt-a-City Initiative deliver a public narrative and take part in a panel discussion with leading resilience experts.

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the
support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized, “Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez shared, “I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.”

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment
(CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private
Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network, and the City Mayor of
Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime
Villanueva.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council
(NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the
realm of disaster risk resilience.

The introduction of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool intended to improve local government capacities in disaster resilience, was one of the event’s highlights. The colloquium emphasized the value of multi-stakeholder collaboration in bringing about transformative change, drawing on the NRC’s mandate. The NRC and its partners are creating a resilient Philippines by fostering innovation and linking sectors.

 

 

 

March 20, 2025 by