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

Concepcion Industrial Corporation, the country’s leading provider of home and enterprise solutions, continues to advance responsible corporate citizenship by demonstrating that sustainability should create impact beyond business operations. Through its subsidiaries—Concepcion Carrier Air Conditioning Company, Concepcion-Durables, Inc., Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines, and Cortex Technologies Corporation—the group successfully diverted a total of 885,000 kilograms of plastic waste over the past year.

This annual achievement underscores CIC’s proactive approach to environmental  stewardship. In partnership with PCX, CIC has moved past standard environmental  compliance. This collaboration ensures that for every kilogram of plastic the company  produces, an equivalent or greater amount is recovered, processed into reusable materials or  energy, and reintegrated into the country’s circular economy. With this milestone, CIC proudly  stands among a select group of companies that consistently achieve and exceed the plastic  offsetting mandates set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

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

While the environmental metrics are significant, the true measure of CIC’s initiative lies in its  grassroots social impact. Central to this mission is the Aling Tindera network, an initiative that  transforms everyday sari-sari stores into community collection hubs. Over 107,000 kilograms  of the total diverted waste were recovered directly from local neighborhoods through this  program. This initiative does more than clear plastic from the streets and oceans; it builds  economic resilience by empowering women micro-entrepreneurs to lead environmental  awareness in their communities while generating sustainable, supplemental income.

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

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

These initiatives illustrate Concepcion Industrial Corporation’s wider sustainability agenda in action. By combining large-scale investments in recycling systems with community empowerment efforts, recovered plastic waste is transformed into reusable materials that support a circular economy and help reduce the amount of plastic ending up in landfills and oceans.

Through these integrated programs, CIC shows that responsible manufacturing goes beyond reducing environmental impact—it is about generating shared value. Each kilogram of plastic diverted reflects not only a healthier environment but also improved livelihood opportunities for Filipino families.

Grand Monaco Land achieved a significant milestone after earning three prestigious awards at the FIABCI (International Real Estate Federation) Philippines 2026 Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards held on April 29, 2026 at Solaire Resort North.

The prestigious event celebrated outstanding achievements and leadership in the Philippine real estate sector, with Grand Monaco Land receiving honors in residential affordable housing, hospitality development, and executive leadership.

Leading the company’s honors was the conferment of the Diplomate in Real Estate Management award upon Grand Monaco Land President and CEO, Engr. Reynaldo A. Carpio, Ph.D.. Regarded as the highest recognition bestowed by FIABCI Philippines, the award recognized his nearly four decades of contribution to Philippine real estate and his role in advancing affordable housing and integrated community development across the country.

During the awarding ceremony, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo likewise recognized Engr. Carpio’s business philosophy, highlighting that its wisdom transcends business and applies to all walks of life: “Once you stop learning, you stop growing. Therefore, never stop learning.”

Further adding to the company’s achievements, Grand Monaco Land received the Gold Winner Award as 2026 Outstanding Developer of the Year – Residential Affordable Category for Montana Misora Homes under the Grand Monaco–Montana Homes development portfolio. The recognition marked the company’s 3rd Outstanding Developer of the Year Award, underscoring its continued commitment to developing quality and accessible communities for Filipino families.

The company also received the Silver Winner Award for the 2026 Outstanding Developer – Hotel Category (4-Star Level) for Monaco Hotel, further solidifying Grand Monaco Land’s expanding presence in the hospitality sector and highlighting its commitment to industry excellence.

The three recognitions underscore Grand Monaco Land’s ongoing dedication to innovation, quality, and community-focused development as it continues to grow its presence across both residential and hospitality industries

Thoughtful gifts and experiences made more rewarding with a Metrobank credit card

Mother’s Day doesn’t need to be lavish to be memorable. Often, it’s the simple and heartfelt gestures that leave the greatest impression.

For those still deciding how to celebrate, Metrobank has put together a few easy yet meaningful ideas to make moms feel extra special—plus added rewards when you use any Metrobank credit card.

Start with something she’ll keep
A well-chosen gift can say a lot, especially when it’s something she can return to every day. Jewelry remains a timeless option—not for its price, but for its meaning.

At Esotico Jewelry, you can enjoy 30% off on plain gold items with a minimum spend of PHP5,000, making it easier to find a piece she’ll treasure for years.

Whether it’s something simple or a bit more statement-making, the thought behind it is what she’ll remember.

Give her a moment to unwind  
Sometimes, the best gift is simply the chance to slow down—something many moms rarely get. Treat her to a quick skin retreat at VMV Skin-Specialist Boutiques and enjoy 15% off on products and services.

For a more memorable experience, consider doing something unique together, like a perfume-making session at The Scent Studio, where you can enjoy 30% off their workshop and 10% off home fragrances with a minimum single-receipt in-store spend of PHP650. It’s less about the activity and more about the time spent creating something together.

Upgrade her home
For many moms, the things they use daily matter just as much as special-occasion gifts.

A small upgrade at home can make routines feel lighter and more enjoyable. Get her new kitchen essentials from Ninja Kitchen and take advantage of a 20% discount on select appliances, including their popular Dual Zone Airfryers. These items sound too practical, but it’s the kind of gift that becomes an essential part of her everyday.

Keep the classics  
Some gestures remain timeless for a reason. Flowers, for one, never go out of style.

Whether it’s a simple bouquet or something more elaborate, FlowerStore.ph offers 25% off plus free shipping on Mother’s Day when you use your Metrobank credit card and the app code MBANKMOM. Potico.ph also offers 30% off for any item on their online shop when you use the code MBANKPMOM. It’s an easy way to add a thoughtful touch to the day, especially when paired with a handwritten note.

Celebrate every kind of mom
Motherhood looks different for everyone, and so does the way we celebrate it.

For new moms navigating a new routine, seasoned moms refreshing their newborn essentials, or any mom in need of a curated selection of parent-tested essentials, consider gifting items from Edamama, which offers 10% off in-store or PHP500 off online for first-time users (code: METROMAMA2026). It’s a small but helpful way to support this new chapter—practical, thoughtful, and grounded in what she actually needs.

Keep it simple, keep it meaningful
At its core, Mother’s Day isn’t about doing more—it’s about being present. A thoughtful gift, a shared experience, or even just uninterrupted time together can mean more than any grand plan.

With a thoughtfully selected range of offers, Metrobank credit cardholders can spend less time planning and more time celebrating the moms who matter most.

To view the complete list of participating merchants, exclusive offers, and terms and conditions, visit the Promo page on the Metrobank website.

Not a cardholder yet? Learn more or apply for a Metrobank credit card through Metrobank Credit Cards, visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/personal/cards/credit-cards

A new destination for refined gifting and scent-led experiences arrives as The Amenity Studio officially opens its doors at Conrad Manila. Located on the ground floor, the store introduces a thoughtfully curated selection of premium hotel amenities and fragrances, bringing the essence of luxury hospitality into everyday rituals.

Marking its debut, The Amenity Studio partners with Conrad Manila for “Heures d’Orange”, an exclusive afternoon tea experience at C Lounge. Inspired by the Hermès Hôtelier Collection, the offering transforms signature scent notes into a refined culinary journey—where fragrance and flavor come together in a seamless, sensory pairing.

Guests are first invited into a fragrance discovery, where they may choose from five Hermès scent testers, each thoughtfully paired with a corresponding tea. Eau d’Orange Verte offers a fresh and uplifting profile, much like Earl Grey; Un Jardin sur la Lagune is vibrant and expressive, just like mango strawberry tea; Eau de Merveilles Bleue is delicate and light, reminiscent of jasmine tea; Eau de Merveilles, presented as a wearable pendant, reveals a warm sweetness alongside chamomile; while Terre d’Hermès brings an earthy depth, complemented by sencha green tea. Curiosity unfolds as guests explore each fragrance—an intimate sensory journey that heightens anticipation for what follows.

The experience continues with a thoughtfully composed menu of savory and sweet selections, each inspired by Hermès fragrances. Savory creations include Un Jardin en Méditerranée (duck prosciutto, fig-orange compote, brioche), Un Jardin sur le Toit (crab meat, green apple, avocado emulsion), Twilly d’Hermès Eau Ginger (tuna, ginger, savory crisps), and Eau de Citron Noir (cucumber, lemon labneh, black lime dust).

Sweet indulgences follow with Eau des Merveilles (orange and praline dark chocolate bonbons), Un Jardin sur le Toit (apple and pear rose choux), Un Jardin sur le Nil (mango rose macaron), and Eau de Pamplemousse Rose (grapefruit and thyme almond tartlets). Completing the experience are freshly baked scones, including classic buttermilk and Eau d’Orange Verte (orange peel buttermilk scones).

More than a retail space, The Amenity Studio is envisioned as a lifestyle concept—one that elevates the way people experience scent, gifting, and self-care. The store currently features the Hermès Hôtelier Collection, known for its distinct fragrances and timeless formulations, presented in travel-sized formats that embody both practicality and indulgence.

“At The Amenity Studio, we wanted to create a space where luxury is experienced, not just purchased,” shares Mitch Garcia-Arce, founder of The Amenity Studio. “From curated amenities to collaborations like ‘Heures d’Orange,’ our goal is to bring the sensibility of fine hotels into everyday living—making each moment feel considered and elevated.”

The collaboration with Conrad Manila reflects a shared vision of refined hospitality—where attention to detail, craftsmanship, and guest experience take center stage. With “Heures d’Orange” available exclusively at C Lounge, guests are invited to discover a new way of experiencing scent beyond the traditional, through taste, texture, and atmosphere.

Now open at the ground floor of Conrad Manila, The Amenity Studio welcomes guests and visitors to explore its collection and discover a new expression of modern luxury—one that is intimate, sensory, and thoughtfully curated.

For updates on Amenity Studio exclusive offerings, and upcoming collaborations, follow @amenitystudioph on Instagram and Facebook.

For more information on Conrad Manila’s latest offerings, please contact +632 8833 9999 or email [email protected]

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), a leading provider of home and enterprise solutions in the Philippines, returns as the official “Powered By” sponsor of the Philippine Franchise Expo 2026, taking place from April 24 to 26 at the SMX Convention Center.

A key highlight of this year’s participation is the Carrier Air Authority Center—the country’s first and only retail air conditioning franchise by Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company. Created to make business ownership more accessible, the concept delivers world-class cooling solutions and professional services directly to local communities, backed by Carrier’s more than 100 years of global innovation.

The Carrier Air Authority Center introduces a dedicated avenue to support customers while complementing CIC’s established retail network. The model allows local business owners to become trusted cooling experts, backed by a tried-and-tested operating system.

“We believe the future of Philippine business is local,” said Phillip F. Trapaga, President of Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company. “The Carrier Air Authority Center is not only about service expansion, but about sharing our world-class operating standards and opening new opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to become true Carrier experts in their communities. We are committed to empowering a nationwide network of independent, thriving business owners who will elevate the standard of living in their own neighborhoods.”

The Carrier Air Authority Center stands out through its solutions-selling approach, moving beyond traditional product transactions to deliver long-term value for customers. Central to this model is a comprehensive 4-in-1 revenue stream designed to maximize customer lifetime value and ensure a steady, diversified income.

Franchisees can rapidly scale through:

• Product Sales:Offering globally trusted and highly efficient cooling solutions.
• Parts Revenue:Providing original Totaline parts that sustain long-term system performance.
• Installation Services:Building immediate customer confidence through expert, brandcertified installations.
• Maintenance & Repairs:Securing consistent, year-round cash flow by serving as the preferred provider for after-sales support.

This integrated strategy positions franchisees for sustainable growth while strengthening customer relationships at every stage of the ownership lifecycle.

To ensure unparalleled market focus for its partners, the program operates on a strict guarantee of territorial exclusivity: One municipality. One franchisee. “We are giving our partners the power to completely own their market with a proven system of play in place,” explained Ramon Antonio Medina, General Manager of Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company. “By granting exclusive territorial rights and unlocking our 4-in-1 revenue system, our franchisees can dedicate their resources to achieving a deep brand loyalty relationship with their community. Backed by our comprehensive support from set-up to technical training, they focus entirely on becoming the highly profitable, undisputed cooling authority in their city.”

Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to learn more by visiting the official website  www.carrier.com.ph or checking out the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572942464913. 

This Labor Day, SM continued empowering community opportunities as multiple Job Fairs were mounted across 15 venues nationwide. This brought together 650 employers and 17,400 jobseekers, with more than 1,000 Filipinos hired on the spot—a powerful reflection of how accessible, community-based platforms can deliver real employment outcomes.

But beyond the numbers are real stories—of courage, determination, and new beginnings.

Across multiple SM malls, thousands of Filipinos walked in carrying resumes—and walked out with something more: real opportunities, renewed confidence, and for many, a fresh start. The SM Job Fair once again served as a platform for employment, connecting jobseekers, employers, and government partners in one convenient, community-centered space at their most-loved SM Supermalls.

For jobseekers like France Barcial and Mark Andrei Jimenez the experience was life-changing.

“Hindi ko po expected na ngayon din ako matatanggap, bakasakali lang po” he shared, holding back tears. “Meron na po akong pang-suporta sa college ko sa PUP.”

“Malaking tulong po ito sa pamilya namin. kung sa iba po, baka nag-antay pako kung kailan ako tatawagan. dito po hired agad.”

Moments like these echoed throughout the day, as hiring booths became spaces of possibility—where interviews led to immediate job offers, and uncertainty turned into hope.

SM Job Fairs continue to stand out for their accessibility and efficiency. From application to interview—and even the processing of government requirements—everything is made available in one place, allowing jobseekers to focus on what matters most: securing their future.

Miss Rea Amata, a representative from the Labor Relations and Public Employment Service Office of Marikina emphasized the impact of such initiatives:

“Malaking bagay ito para sa mga Pilipino, sa mga constituents namin sa Marikina. Bringing opportunities closer to communities is key—and SM provides that platform. Isipin mo, hindi ka na dadayo at gagastos para maghanap ng trabaho.”

Employers also highlighted the value of direct, face-to-face engagement, as attested by Noelle Tupas of Work Makers Manpower Corporation.

“We’re able to meet qualified candidates faster and more efficiently, second time we joined this job fair and some of our previous hires have stayed in our company, the others found other opportunities. Here, you can see the potential immediately, and that makes hiring more meaningful.”

Beyond employment, SM continues to strengthen its role in workforce development by introducing upskilling opportunities—including digital and AI learning sessions in partnership with institutions such as the Department Information and Communications Technology. These initiatives aim to help jobseekers stay competitive in an evolving job market, reinforcing the shift from job access to job readiness.

“We have certificate trainings and seminars na nagdadagdag ng value at knowledge sa ating mga applicants. In fact, we have ready data and information ng mga trainees natin previously na na-hire or lumawak ang freelancing expertise dahil sa programs natin,” said Erika Zamora, trainer from DICT.

Many jobseekers felt the significance of the initiative.

Alberto Eder shared, “Hindi lang po ito para sa IT professionals, AI age na po talaga tayo. Lahat po ng gusto magtrabaho, makikinabang po dito sa upskilling.”

Through strong collaboration with government agencies, employers, and institutional partners, SM Job Fairs continue to demonstrate how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful, real-world impact.

As the day came to a close, what remained were not just filled job positions—but stories of resilience, determination, and new beginnings.

Because at SM Supermalls, it’s not just about bringing people together—it’s about helping them move forward.

Thousands of participants gather at SM Mall of Asia Arena for the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, demonstrating nationwide support for autism acceptance, accommodation and appreciation.

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), together with SM Cares and its partners, gathered 47,500 allies and advocates nationwide together at the ASP Angels Walk for Autism last April 26, 2026. The record-breaking attendance this year reflects the growing support for the Autism Community through collective programs and efforts done by SM Cares and the ASP in forging an Autism-OK Philippines.

United voices and shared purpose take center stage at ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, as Mr. Hans Sy officially cues the walk for inclusion.

For close to two decades, SM hosted the ASP Angels Walk as a celebration that aims to turn a long-standing advocacy into a meaningful celebration of inclusion, dignity, and hope. This year’s celebration further expanded this advocacy by empowering communities through simultaneous walks across SM’s most-loved malls nationwide.

“ASP Angels Walk reminds us that inclusion is about creating space, and more importantly, making people feel that they truly belong. At SM, we are honored to walk united with the autism community—their families and fellow advocates who have long shown us the power of courage and perseverance. This commitment is about pursuing transformative inclusivity: empowering communities until every person is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive,” said Steven Tan, President, SM Supermalls.

Barrier-free inclusion and transformative action

This year’s theme “Aumbitious. Aarangkada. Aangat.”, encouraged like-minded advocates to turn aspirations and conversations on impactful inclusivity into actions that are not only felt but are transformative.

To prepare for the event the SM Mall of Asia Arena’s venue team underwent specialized training from the Department of Tourism called “Barrier-Free Tourism Kaya Natin.” The comprehensive session focused on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for customers on the spectrum ensuring their safety and wellbeing while in the premises.

SM Book Nook receives the ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year Award, represented by Ms. Hanna Carinna Sy, recognizing its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for the autism community.

This year’s event was also made special through the recognition of meaningful partners in the advocacy, including SM Book Nook, which was honored as ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year. The distinction reflects how inclusive community spaces can help open more opportunities for learning, engagement, and belonging. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte was also recognized with the Hans T. Sy Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare, honoring leadership that supports the autism community in meaningful and lasting ways.

Collaborative Advocacy

Families and participants join the walk during the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, highlighting community support and inclusive participation.

Since its inception, the ASP Angels Walk has grown into a long-standing movement that champions inclusion and advances the vision of an Autism-OK Philippines. The movement is reinforced by SM’s pursuit of becoming a truly inclusive Mall for All—accepting, accommodating, and appreciative of customers no matter what their needs may be.

Participants, including families and children, join the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026 at SM City Tuguegarao and SM City Davao, reflecting widespread community support and inclusive participation across regions.

As a continuing partner of ASP, SM Cares remains committed to building spaces and programs that support the autism community throughout the year. With sustained initiatives in inclusion, accessibility, and community engagement, SM continues to stand with individuals on the spectrum and their families—always working toward a future where no one is left behind.

SM employee volunteers gather in solidarity during the ASP Angels Walk for Autism 2026, demonstrating corporate and community support for autism inclusion.

Held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and simultaneously in SM City Bacolod, SM City Baguio, SM City Butuan, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Davao, SM City Iloilo, SM City Lipa, SM City Lucena, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Tuguegarao, and Virac Town Plaza, this year’s ASP Angels Walk continued to unite communities across the country in support of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

Cebu Business Month Launch. From left to right: Chief Airline Marketing Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Airport Corp. Mark Souter, Chairman of CBM 2026 Partnership & Resource Generation Anton Perdices, CCCI President Regan Rex King, Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications Edsel Paglinawan, CBM 2026 Overall Chairman Bryan Yap, Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, Sales Cluster Head of Visayas and Mindanao, Rafael Castellano, Chairman of CBM 2026 Partnership & Resource Generation and Vice President for Corporate Services Therma Visayas, Inc. Leonardo Robel, Jr.

Eastern Communications reaffirms its enduring support for business development in the Visayas as it takes part in the launch of Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2026 on April 24. This milestone reflects more than a decade of collaboration with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in strengthening Cebu’s position as a vital contributor to the country’s economic growth.

Led by the CCCI, Cebu Business Month has grown into a leading business festival, gathering entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders through a vibrant mix of forums, trade fairs, networking events, and collaborative initiatives. Designed as a festival-style platform, CBM promotes innovation, investment, and cross-sector collaboration, while continuously supporting the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Cebu and across the Visayas.

Eastern Comms has been a consistent presence in this journey. For over a decade, the telco provider has been a steadfast partner in CBM, supporting initiatives that promote digital readiness and business resilience. Its participation reflects a broader commitment to empowering Filipino SMEs nationwide through reliable connectivity, managed ICT services, and tailored digital solutions that help businesses adapt to an increasingly digital and competitive landscape.

“Our partnership with Cebu Business Month and the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry has grown stronger over the past decade because we share a common goal: empowering businesses to thrive in a rapidly changing environment,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications. “With over 146 years of service, Eastern Communications continues to evolve into a full-fledged tech solutions provider, committed to building resilient and reliable digital infrastructure that supports Cebu’s role as a thriving business destination and strengthens SMEs across the country.”

The telco provider’s role has only grown more relevant as digitalization becomes a baseline requirement for survival in today’s economy. Eastern Comms has continued to expand its portfolio of solutions designed specifically to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) nationwide, from internet connectivity products and managed services to initiatives like PDSCN (Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network) that strengthens inter-island connectivity and extends robust, high-quality digital infrastructure to underserved regions across the archipelago.

Regan King, President of Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in advancing the goals of CBM.

“Our long-standing partnership with Eastern Communications reflects the kind of collaboration CBM was built on—one that enables innovation, strengthens enterprise capability, and drives regional competitiveness. As we continue to expand CBM as a premier business festival, partnerships like this help ensure that Cebu remains a vibrant hub for business and investment,” said Regan King.

Eastern Communications remains committed to providing the infrastructure and expertise needed to ensure resilience and sustainable growth as businesses navigate challenges shaped by digital transformation, economic shifts, and regional expansion opportunities

Moving forward, Eastern Communications and CCCI aim to further deepen their partnership, united by a common goal of empowering SMEs, driving digital transformation, and promoting inclusive growth across the Philippines.

For more information about Eastern Communications and its upcoming initiatives, call 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

When picking milk for your child, what usually influences your choice? Is it a trusted brand, an attractive design, or the claims shown on the front label? It’s easy to be drawn to eye-catching packaging, but making a truly informed decision starts with checking the information on the back.

Under Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, milk products are required to clearly declare their ingredient list in descending order by weight, nutritional composition, and raw material sources, making it the most reliable basis for evaluating quality.

Yet, a study by Acta Medica Philippina reveals that nearly half of Filipino adults don’t read food labels, and only a small fraction checks the Nutrition Facts. This lack of “label interest” often leaves families vulnerable to promotional jargon rather than actual nutritional value. Simply put, the front promotes, but the back proves.

From “Gut Feel” to Informed Choice

Milk selection is often guided by instinct or vague recommendations. However, shifting from “gut feel” to informed decision-making starts with knowing where to look.

Two key sections on the label can quickly provide valuable insight:

1. Ingredient List –Ingredients are listed from highest to lowest quantity, making the first ingredient the most significant. In the case of milk, parents should choose products that list “Fresh Milk” as its first ingredient, signifying that it makes up the largest portion of the product.
2. Nutrition Facts Table– This outlines the levels of essential nutrients such as protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals, providing a more objective basis for comparison beyond general claims like “nutritious” or “fortified.”

By focusing on these areas, parents can move beyond the brand message fluff and better understand what they are giving their children.

Decoding Nutrition and Avoiding Red Flags

For many Pinoy moms, the scientific jargons on the back of the tin can be intimidating. But understanding these terms will be key to providing better nutrition for your child. Look for these nutrients that can support your child’s overall health:

• Lactoferrin:A naturally-occurring iron-binding protein naturally found in milk that helps support a strong immune system.
• GOS & FOS (Prebiotics):These are not “chemicals”; they are dietary fibers that feed the good bacteria in the gut, supporting a healthy digestive system and stronger immunity, since 70% of immune cells reside in the gut.
• DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) & ARA (Arachidonic Acid):These are fatty acids essential for cognitive development and sharp vision.

While identifying the “good” is vital, spotting the “bad” is equally important. Be wary of these three “hidden” sugars:

• Sucrose:Plain table sugar. It provides empty calories and can lead to tooth decay and a preference for overly sweet foods.
• Maltodextrin:A highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener. It has a high glycemic index, meaning it causes rapid spikes in blood sugar.
• High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS):A sweetener linked to various health concerns, including childhood obesity.

A Smarter Way Forward

In a market flooded with options, the back label is your most honest advisor. As the Acta Medica Philippina research suggests, we need an intensified focus on label education to bridge the gap between “buying” and “nourishing.”

As consumers, a simple first step is to look past the front of the package and make it a habit to check the back label first.

Because ultimately, choosing milk powder isn’t about what catches your eye on the shelf—it’s about what’s inside.