News

Pru Life UK’s Vice President for Talent and Organization Development Daisy Alvior
and Assistant Vice President – HR Business Partner Ma. Katrina Mallari accepted the award
from the Employer Branding Institute

Having previously received the Employer Branding Institute’s prestigious Best Employer Brand award in 2023, Pru Life UK has once again been recognized for its outstanding leadership in talent development, innovation, and top-tier employer branding.

This award demonstrates Pru Life UK’s ongoing dedication to creating a people-centered, purpose-driven company. The culture we’ve established—one that is motivated by purpose, rooted in wellbeing, and fueled by teamwork—is proudly acknowledged as a Best Employer Brand once more, said Rashelle Cejo, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Pru Life UK.

Central to the company’s people strategy is PRUHouse, its hybrid-friendly corporate headquarters in Bonifacio Global City. Designed to support flexibility, inclusivity, and productivity, PRUHouse features dedicated zones for learning, focus, collaboration, and community engagement. It reflects the company’s evolving approach to the future of work.

Pru Life UK’s hybrid work model, alongside initiatives such as structured wellness activities, and professional counselling through its Employee Assistance Programme, ensures a supportive and balanced work environment. Career development programmes via PRU Learning Academy and PRU Careers+ further empower employees to thrive and grow.

This most recent honor adds to the company’s increasing collection of honors, which also includes Statista’s 2025 Best Employer in the Philippines title. Serving more than two million Filipinos through its vast network of over 40,000 agents, Pru Life UK was the top-ranked company in the nation as of the end of 2024 for both total renewal premium revenue and new business annual premium equivalent.

For every life and every future, Pru Life UK is committed to being the most reliable partner and guardian.

The 2025 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Conference and Expo, organized by the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF), will take place at Makati City’s Dusit Thani Manila and Glorietta Activity Center from July 1–3. As essential elements of sustainable business practices, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) will be the main topic of this year’s event. LCF seeks to enable businesses to fully integrate these principles into their operations, fostering innovation and having a beneficial social impact.

For the 2025 CSR Conference and Expo, which has as its theme “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity for Shared Prosperity,” business and industry leaders, civil society, government officials, community partners, and the general public will gather for enlightening discussion and cooperation on DEI integration in business and social responsibility programs. A national celebration of corporate responsibility and social good, CSR Week culminates with this event, which amplifies the call for inclusive and significant action across sectors.

Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, interactive exhibits, and thought-provoking keynotes. The program will cover a wide range of topics including DEI leadership, inclusive education, climate resilience, and the role of technology in driving community development. Speakers and panelists will include sector leaders from across the private sector, civil society, and government.

Key highlights include a keynote session titled “Shared Prosperity, Shared Responsibility: The DEI Mandate in Nation-Building” by Senator Risa Hontiveros, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, and closing remarks by Karen Davila, UN Women National Goodwill Ambassador.

Plenary discussions will explore:

• The Intersection of Financial Inclusion & Resilience: Protecting the Vulnerable and the Marginalized Sectors in the Philippines
• Integrating Mental Health for Diverse Populations into CSR Initiatives: Strategies and Impact
• Diversity in Creativity
• Empowering Informal Economies
• Green Cities, Equal Futures: Urban Ecology and Social Justice in Action
• Shaping an Inclusive Future: Transforming Education for Vulnerable Learners with Foundations

“This event is a unique platform for businesses of all sizes to engage in meaningful conversations on CSR, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative solutions to social challenges,” said Shem Jose Garcia, Chairperson of LCF and Executive Director of Vivant Foundation, Inc. “Through DEI, we’re not just promoting fairness, we’re driving inclusive innovation and sustainable progress.” He added that this includes intentional efforts to ensure the inclusion of under-represented groups, particularly women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, senior citizens, and indigenous people and people of various faiths and beliefs, and others.

Recognizing Excellence in CSR

The 2025 CSR Conference will coincide with the 2025 LCF Guild Awards, which recognize the outstanding CSR initiatives, organized by LCF members,  which have significantly impacted local communities. Additionally, the 2025 Medal of Recognition will be awarded to non-member organizations which have demonstrated exceptional impact across thematic areas such as Arts and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Education, Environment, Enterprise Development, Financial Inclusion, and Health.

“Over the years, the Guild Awards and the Medal of Recognition have become benchmarks of excellence in the CSR space,” said Jonathan Batangan, Executive Director of Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. “These recognitions serve as a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven programs across the country.”

LIFE Program Spotlight: Empowering Communities

A key highlight of the CSR Expo is an update on LIFE (LCF’s Initiative for Food Security, Nutrition, and Empowerment) program. Designed to address child malnutrition, LIFE brings together nutrition support, livelihood training, much needed tools and facilities and local capacity-building. It aligns with the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) and is currently being implemented in Basilan, in partnership with the provincial government and key stakeholders.

“We are excited to spotlight the strides that we have made in advancing LIFE in Basilan and we are excited to elicit even more support from various groups so we can collaborate.” said Austere Panadero, the LCF Trustee, and President of Zuellig Family Foundation,  who oversees the inititative.

Philip Dy, LCF Trustee and Executive Vice-President of Metrobank Foundation, shared: “LIFE is testament to what is possible when businesses and communities collaborate toward shared goals.”

Left to right: Edric Calma, Vice Chairperson, League of Corporate Foundations and Vice President, Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.; Shem Jose Garcia, Chairperson, League of Corporate Foundations and Executive Director, Vivant Foundation, Inc.; ; and Jonathan Batangan, Executive Director, Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. Photo from League of Corporate Foundations.

LCF’s 2025 CSR Conference and Expo is a call to action for the business sector to embrace purpose-driven growth, amplify its social impact, and help build a more inclusive and equitable future for all Filipinos.

The 2025 CSR Conference and Expo is co-presented by Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. and co-organized with Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Foundation, Inc., and The SM, Henry Sy, and Felicidad T. Sy Foundations, Inc. It is also made possible through the support of BPI Foundation, Inc., Manila Water Foundation, Inc., Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc., and Vivant Foundation, Inc., with special thanks to Energy Development Corporation, Inc., Lopez Group Foundation, Inc., and Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc. LCF also thanks Ayala Foundation, Inc., BDO Foundation, Inc., and Citizen of the World Philippines Foundation, Inc. and acknowledges Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., (Don) Antonio O. Floriendo Sr. Foundation, Inc., Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, Inc., ICTSI Foundation, Inc., Ronald McDonald House Charities, SEAOIL Foundation, Inc., Security Bank Foundation, Inc., Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation, Inc., Unilab Foundation, Inc., and Zuellig Family Foundation, Inc. for their support. These and other partners help foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing on sustainability and inclusivity.

The Expo will be hosted in the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City on July 1 and 2, while the Conference will be held at Dusit Thani Manila from July 1 to 3. Register and learn more about the program at https://2025csrconferenceandexpo.my.canva.site.

LCF is the nation’s premier network for supporting governance-driven, social, and environmental projects. Its members are corporate and family foundations operating and awarding grants throughout the Philippines.

Beata Elementary School in Pandacan, Manila, is one of the public schools that received upgraded ICT facilities and digital safety training under the Pro-Digital LOOP Project. Photo from ChildFund Philippines.

Through its Pro-Digital LOOP Project, ChildFund Philippines and ChildFund Korea are transforming digital learning environments in Manila’s public elementary schools by updating ICT facilities, offering workshops to communities on safe digital practices, and assisting in the creation of national online child protection policies.

The Pro-Digital LOOP Project, which was started in November 2023, aims to address two major issues facing the nation’s educational system: unequal access to technology and rising child safety threats online. The project is creating tech-enabled, inclusive classrooms that support safe, efficient, and equitable learning opportunities for everyone through collaborations with GEMS Heart Outreach Development Inc. and the Department of Education (DepEd).

Marlene Floresca, Senior Education Specialist of ChildFund Philippines, emphasized that multi-sectoral partnerships allowed them to yield holistic impact of the initiative: “The project has transformed schools and homes by equipping them to better support children’s digital learning. Our approach not only provides technology but also strengthens safe digital literacy, ensuring that children can thrive academically and protect themselves online.”

Fernando Ma. Guerrero Elementary School in Manila is one of the public schools that received upgraded ICT facilities and digital safety training under the Pro-Digital LOOP Project. Photo from ChildFund Philippines.

This shift is already evident in the classrooms. “Many of our students now come to school excited to learn because they can explore digital tools safely and creatively,” said Eremeo Monte, ICT Coordinator at Fernando Ma. Guerrero Elementary School in Manila. “We’ve seen how ICT hubs can spark curiosity and help students learn better across subjects—from reading to science.”

Bagong Barangay Elementary School in Pandacan, Manila, is one of the public schools that received upgraded ICT facilities and digital safety training under the Pro-Digital LOOP Project. Photo from ChildFund Philippines

Since its launch, the Pro-Digital LOOP Project has enhanced digital learning in 10 Manila public elementary schools by providing 200 laptops, smart TVs, printers, air conditioners, and refurbished ICT hubs with high-speed internet. In addition, 200 licensed Microsoft applications were distributed, and 346 teachers—including subject specialists in math, reading, and science—along with ICT coordinators, principals, and education staff, were trained in using multimedia digital resources appropriate for their elementary students.

During their recent visit to select public schools in Manila, representatives from ChildFund Philippines, ChildFund Korea, and GEMS Heart Outreach Development Inc. engaged with school administrators and teachers to discuss the impact of the Pro-Digital LOOP Project and explore ways to further strengthen digital learning and child online safety. [L-R: Carol Estuesta, Program Manager, GEMS Heart Outreach Development Inc.; Shiena Bondad, Project Coordinator, GEMS; Eremeo Monte, ICT Coordinator, Fernando Ma. Guerrero Elementary School, Manila; Loren Francisco, Interim Project Manager; Minerva Rosco, Principal, Fernando Ma. Guerrero Elementary School, Manila; Minjin Kim, Country Program Manager, ChildFund Korea; Editha Labrador, Project Development Officer, GEMS Heart Outreach Development Inc.; Minji Ki, Global Education Program Team Leader, ChildFund Korea; and, Marlene Floresca, Senior Education Specialist; ChildFund Philippines].
Photo from ChildFund Philippines.

Minjin Kim, Country Program Manager of ChildFund Korea, shared, “Teachers have become more confident using digital tools to deliver lessons effectively, and students are more engaged and better able to understand their lessons because of the interactive nature of digital learning.” She added that the establishment of ICT hubs provides access to richer academic resources, enhancing teaching and learning experiences.

According to Camille Villareal, ICT Coordinator of Bagong Barangay Elementary School, “The new equipment and digital resources have truly changed how we teach and engage with our students. They’re now more interactive and eager, especially in subjects like math and science, where multimedia tools make lessons clearer and more exciting.” Likewise, Carmela Conmigo, ICT Coordinator at Beata Elementary School, expressed, “The training we received helped us integrate technology effectively, and the community’s involvement has been key to ensuring students learn and stay safe online.”

During a recent visit to select Manila public schools, including Bagong Barangay Elementary School, representatives from ChildFund Philippines, ChildFund Korea, and GEMS Heart Outreach Development Inc. met with educators to assess the impact of the Pro-Digital LOOP Project and identify ways to enhance digital learning and online child safety. Photo from ChildFund Philippines.

Building on these improvements in teaching and engagement, Carol Salba, Principal at Bagong Barangay Elementary School, highlighted the broader impact on students: “The gadgets and instructional materials provided through the project have been a great opportunity for our students. They are more motivated to learn, which translated into increased participation and a lower dropout rate this year. We hope this program continues so that even more students can benefit from it.”

Beyond schools, the project has contributed to strengthening policies on safe digital literacy and learning environments. Collaborative meetings with tech companies like Meta and TikTok paved the way for upcoming advocacy meetings and policy dialogues involving children. Likewise, engagements with the DepEd’s Learner Rights and Protection Bureau are set to include online safety in the revised DepEd Child Protection Policy, supported by training initiatives and policy digitalization efforts.

The effect has also been observed by parents. Kim said, “One parent-teacher association (PTA) member acknowledged the efforts to increase digital literacy and guarantee children’s online safety.” Parents conveyed gratitude for the project’s contribution to tackling issues associated with excessive usage of phones and video games.

ChildFund aspires to a future in which every Filipino kid has access to secure, technologically improved education that equips them to thrive in a world that is becoming more interconnected by closing the digital divide and strengthening online child protection.

With one laptop and a leap of faith, this couple transformed their future—proving that big dreams start with small steps

Every Filipino aspires to live a better life, one that is stable, comfortable, and full of growth chances. These goals represent the aspirations we have for ourselves and our loved ones, whether they are home ownership, starting a new career, or just easily handling daily expenses. And even if obstacles and a lack of resources can occasionally slow us down, the correct assistance can transform even the most simple moment into a powerful fresh start.

Home Credit Philippines, the top consumer finance company in the nation, marked a turning point for many. With flexible payment plans and reasonably priced financing choices, Home Credit enables Filipinos to confidently move toward the future they have always dreamed of—one attainable goal at a time.

A laptop that changed everything

Take the inspiring story of Manilyn and Mark Anthony Agus, both 35, who once juggled multiple side jobs to make ends meet. Today, they’re thriving as full-time virtual assistants, earning a combined six-digit monthly income–and it all began with one simple opportunity made possible by Home Credit. Before their careers took off, Mark worked at a factory and later became a delivery and ride-hailing rider. He also helped Manilyn sell home-cooked meals while she ran a small online business selling decorative pebbles.

Despite their hustle, most of their income went toward daily expenses and supporting Mark’s mother’s medical needs. Their dreams of owning a home and financial stability felt distant–until a chance encounter at a tech store changed their lives.

“We were just walking around the mall in 2022 when a Home Credit sales associate introduced us to their installment plans,” shared Manilyn. “All they asked for was one valid ID. The process was quick—less than a minute—and we walked out with a laptop.”

That laptop was more than just a device. It was a stepping stone.

From Struggles to Stability

With her new laptop, Manilyn secured her first virtual assistant job. Realizing the potential of remote work, she encouraged Mark to follow the same path. Soon, they secured a second laptop through Home Credit, allowing them both to work from home full-time.

“Napakalaking tulong sa amin ng Home Credit. Ito ang naging pundasyon namin para makapag-trabaho as virtual assistants,” Mark shared.

(The laptop we got through Home Credit was a huge help. It became the foundation of our work as virtual assistants.)

Since then, the couple has taken out and successfully paid off 11 loans with Home Credit—including cash loans and product installments. They’ve gradually built the life they once only dreamed of: owning a home, upgrading appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, buying furniture, motorcycles, and even a PS5 for leisure.

“Sa tulong ni Home Credit, nakapag-umpisa kaming mag-asawa ng bagong career at ngayon ay kumikita na kami ng umaabot ng six digits,” Manilyn added.

(With Home Credit’s help, my husband and I were able to start new careers, and now we’re earning up to six digits.)

Most recently, they used a ₱30,000 Home Credit Cash Loan to renovate their kitchen—approved in just one minute through the Home Credit App.

“Nag-avail kami ng cash loan through the Home Credit App. And in as fast as one minute, na-approve na siya agad,” Manilyn remarked.

(We availed a cash loan through the Home Credit App, and in as fast as one minute, it was already approved.)

“Malaki ang tiwala namin sa Home Credit dahil isa siya sa naging parte ng kung paano kami nakabangon. Kung tao si Home Credit, taos-puso kaming magpapasalamat dahil nakabili kami ng laptop na naging pundasyon para makapag-umpisa kaming mag-asawa. Malayo na rin ang aming narating mula noong panahong puro sideline lang ang aming kinakapitan,” Manilyn added.

(We have great trust in Home Credit because it played a big role in helping us build a better life. If Home Credit were a person, we would wholeheartedly say thank you, because it enabled us to buy a laptop that became the starting point for my husband and me to pursue our dreams. We’ve come a long way since the days when we relied only on side hustles.)

Helping Filipinos Achieve the Good Life

“Mark and Manilyn’s story reminds us of what’s possible when financial access meets real ambition,” said Shiela Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. “Our mission is to bring life-changing opportunities closer to everyday Filipinos. Their journey is proof that with the right tools and support, big dreams can come true.”

From a single gadget to a thriving home-based career, Mark and Manilyn’s experience reflects what Home Credit stands for: making progress possible, one empowered Filipino at a time.

Visit Home Credit Philippines official website at   www.homecredit.ph, to learn more about the most recent upgrades, or download the Home Credit app from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. Additionally, you may follow its official profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). have granted Home Credit Philippines a license and are overseeing the financing company.

NYMA talents photos

The 46th Annual Telly Awards honor excellence in international video and television programming, and this year’s notable winners include Filipino content creator Abi Marquez and Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, singer-actor Christian Bautista.

One of the most lasting and renowned artists in the Philippines, Christian Bautista, won his first Telly Award this year for his endearing digital series, Matching Outfits, which he co-created with his wife.

Bronze in the Beauty, Fashion & Shopping  – Matching Outfits Series

His content series has quickly become a fan favorite, delighting audiences with playful fashion videos where he coordinates outfits with his wife, Kat. Each release is an instant hit—garnering millions of views and flooding the comments with admiration. Fans can’t get enough of their undeniable chemistry and charm, and even fellow celebrities have joined in, leaving enthusiastic comments and praise.

His top five Matching Outfit videos alone have pulled in a total of 41.2 million views across platforms!

Beauty, Fashion & Shopping Listing

Abi brought home three Silver Telly Awards for her work across different platforms and formats, winning in the following categories:

1. Online Series, Shows & Segments – Abi’s TikTok Account

Abi Marquez’s TikTok has become a go-to destination for food lovers of all ages, across countries. With a community of over 4.4 million followers and counting, her content stands out for making recipes feel fun, approachable, and unapologetically Filipino.

Whether she’s breaking down a traditional dish or trying something trendy, Abi’s tone stays grounded and friendly—like a friend who just happens to be really good in the kitchen. Her videos are fast-paced, visually sharp, yet easy to follow, which keeps viewers engaged from the first second to the last. And while she’s always entertaining, the heart of her content is cultural pride—shining a spotlight on Filipino food or culture in every frame.

Online Series, Shows & Segments Listing

2. Food & Beverage – Mabuhay World Campaign

Mabuhay World is Abi’s love letter to Filipino cuisine and culture on a global scale. Inspired by the word “Mabuhay,” which means “welcome” or “to live,” the campaign showcases the warmth and hospitality that define Filipino food.

Whenever Abi visits a country, she partners with international food creators to introduce Filipino dishes to new audiences—turning each collaboration into an opportunity to share recipes, stories, history, and identity. The spirit of Mabuhay World extends into an annual gathering in the Philippines, bringing together food content creators to celebrate collaboration and push Filipino cuisine on the world stage.

Mabuhay World Video

This campaign reflects Abi’s commitment to bringing Filipino food culture to the global stage—making it more than deserving of the Telly honor.

Food & Beverage Listing

3. Social Video – “Gordon Ramsay Doesn’t Like My Beef Wellington” Vlog

Abi’s dream collab has always been Gordon Ramsay—and this year, it finally happened. When Ramsay visited the Philippines to open his restaurant, Abi seized the moment and recreated his iconic Beef Wellington, adding her own twist: a lumpia-inspired version.

The video blew up, racking up nearly 80 million views across platforms to date. But it was the vlog, “Gordon Ramsay Doesn’t Like My Beef Wellington,” that gave fans the full story—from behind-the-scenes jitters to surreal moments with Gordon himself.

Gordon Ramsay Doesn’t Like My Beef Wellington vlog

For longtime followers, it felt like everything had come full circle. From growing up watching Gordon on TV to cooking beside him in a real kitchen, Abi just made her dream come true.

Social Video Listing

Over 13,000 submissions were submitted to the Telly Awards this year from six continents, showcasing a diverse array of creative work ranging from self-produced social content to large-scale advertising campaigns. Since its inception in 1979 as a means of honoring regional TV ads, the award has expanded to become one of the most inclusive in the industry, honoring brilliance on all screens.

The victories of Christian Bautista and Abi Marquez signal a significant milestone for Filipino artists establishing themselves internationally. Their work demonstrates that effective narrative is effective, whether it is in the form of a fashionable video or a recipe that goes viral.

FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X

CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X | SPOTIFY

To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph

By participating in this year’s simultaneous nationwide LAB Virus Program and Medical Mission on June 4, 2025, in collaboration with Cardinal Santos Medical Center, the Philippine National Police Officers’ Ladies Club (PNPOLC) demonstrates that they are much more than just a conventional social organization.

What started out as a support club for PNP officers’ spouses has expanded into a national network of strong, independent women who are significantly improving the lives of Filipinos. One of the best examples of that change is the LAB Virus program, which stands for “Love and Blessing.” This organization provides essential medical care to underprivileged areas nationwide in a kind and compassionate manner.

“In the past, it’s the Officers’ Ladies Club. This is composed of the wives of the officers of the PNP. But, of course, due to the changing times, nakita natin na ang mas kailangan pala ang mga pulis. So, that’s why we decided to transform it and register it as a foundation with the sole purpose of helping our PNP personnel and in order to make this sustainable, we made sure to create partnerships like this with Cardinal Santos Medical Center,” said Mrs. Mary Rose Marbil, National Adviser of the PNP-OLC Foundation.

Mrs. Marbil said she and her husband, former PNP Chief Rommel Marbil have decided to make this initiative nationwide and simultaneous in all the regional police offices in the country.

“Ang pangarap niya ay pangarap ko rin. Matatag na ekonomiya, maayos na lipunan at maayos na Kapulisan”, she added.

In an unprecedented show of unity and service, the PNP-OLC mobilized members in all regions to simultaneously conduct medical missions in police camps, barangays, and remote areas. In collaboration with Cardinal Santos Medical Center, the initiative will provide:

• Free health consultations
• Basic laboratory services and Free circumcision
• Blood pressure and blood sugar checks
• Flu and pneumonia vaccinations
• Medicine distribution and wellness education

The event is part of PNP-OLC’s broader effort to redefine the role of women in the uniformed service community—not just as supporters, but as leaders, organizers, and changemakers in their own right.

Mrs. Marbil further assured the continuity of the initiative as they transition to a new leadership in the PNP.

“I made a playbook para may guide na kung ano ‘yung gagawin, we will support the new adviser. I’m sure may mas marami pa siyang ideas na maiisip for the police force”

The club demonstrates that true service transcends uniforms and that compassion knows no rank by partnering with one of the top medical institutions in the nation to guarantee that high-quality care reaches even the most difficult-to-reach populations.

IN PHOTO: The elevated flood-proof Olandes STP control room located in Marikina City The enhancements at Manila Water’s Olandes STP, which include upgrading the Biological Nutrient Removal system, demonstrates the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and adherence to government standards on effluents, ensuring cleaner and safer waterways

Manila Water has completed major upgrades at the Olandes Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Marikina City, converting its previously unused capacity to support Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) treatment. This development reflects the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship and adherence to more stringent effluent quality standards.

The P129.31-million BNR enhancement project, finalized in November 2024, aimed to boost the STP’s efficiency in eliminating harmful nutrients such as ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates—pollutants that can severely impact ecosystems if not properly treated. Through this improved BNR process, Manila Water is actively reducing the environmental footprint of wastewater discharge into surrounding waterways.

Key enhancements implemented as part of the operational modification include replacing the existing Conventional Activated Sludge (CAS) process with a more advanced Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) configuration. This upgrade involved several critical components such as structural modification and repair of tanks, construction of a chemical house for the chemical dosing system, installation of submersible pumps and mixers for improved distribution of treatment chemicals, and installation of a control panel and instrumentation for better monitoring and management of treatment processes.

With a current capacity of 10,360 MLD and a daily average inflow of 5,000 MLD, the Olandes STP serves over 40,000 residents across Barangays Cinco Hermanos, Industrial Valley, Sitio Olandes, Blue Ridge, and Libis in Marikina and Quezon City.

“The completion of the Olandes STP enhancements marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect the environment and ensure compliance with stringent effluent standards. By adopting advanced nutrient removal technology, we are not only improving the quality of wastewater treatment but also safeguarding the health of our waterways and communities,” Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla said.

Moreover, upgrading the Olandes STP to improve its current BNR processes helps meet the stringent regulations of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for Class C wastewater, which supports marine life. This initiative is intended to ensure that wastewater treatment facilities follow BNR process standards, ultimately leading to cleaner and safer bodies of water.

Pru Life UK Assistant Manager for Community Investments and Sustainability Partnerships
Hannah Aman accepted the awards during a banquet dinner in Seoul, South Korea

Pru Life UK received Gold and Silver honors at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards for its exceptional thought leadership and pioneering corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that support underserved Filipino communities and advance financial education among the youth.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards celebrate innovation in business across 29 countries, recognizing both organizations and individuals for their excellence in areas such as thought leadership, business growth, and CSR.

Pru Life UK received the Gold Stevie® for Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year for its Takaful Journey–a holistic approach to Islamic Finance through stakeholder and community engagement, capacity building workshops, and educational efforts. The initiative made Pru Life UK the first insurer in the Philippines to receive a Takaful license and is set to launch a Shari’ah-compliant product to cater to the financial needs of over seven million Muslim Filipinos.

The company also earned the Silver Stevie® for Innovative Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility for its Cha-Ching’s Million-Step Journey: Transforming Filipino Lives Through Financial Education. Developed by Prudence Foundation in partnership with Pru Life UK and JA Philippines, the programme has reached over one million Filipino children last year through a collaboration with the Department of Education, tackling financial illiteracy at the grassroots level by educating students on the fundamental financial concepts of Cha-Ching: earning, saving, spending, and donating.

“We are honoured to receive these recognitions that affirm the impact of our efforts in empowering underserved Filipino communities,” said Paul Mandal, Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer at Pru Life UK. “We remain committed to helping Filipinos from all walks of life secure a better future.”

The company earned two Silver and three Bronze honors at the  2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards for its initiatives that support Filipino families. It remains committed to its mission of being the most trusted ally and guardian for today’s Filipinos and future generations.

Philippines First Insurance Group (PFI Group) officers welcome their new brand advocate at the PFI Group Makati headquarters. (Standing from left) PhilPlans SVP Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Ronald Bautista, PhilFirst AVP Head of Marketing Luis Cebrero Jr., PhilLife SVP and Chief Operating Officer Michelle Ambagan, PhilCare EVP Operations Raymond Tiangco, (Seated from left) PFI Group Brand Advocate Dianne Medina and PFI Group President and CEO Jaeger L. Tanco.

A recent market research initiative, titled “PhilLife Meter: Feeling the Insurance Pulse of Pinoy Gen Y and Z,” found that 78% of young Filipinos place family protection at the top of their priorities, while 77% consider emergency preparedness the most crucial benefit when selecting insurance plans.

Commissioned by the Philippines First Insurance Group (PFI Group) for PhilLife, the study highlights the shifting values of Filipino youth around protection and future planning. It underscores a new generation that is intentional, family-oriented, and proactive—eager to embrace solutions that genuinely resonate with their needs and lifestyles.

This study resonates with me because it shows how young Filipinos, are becoming more mindful of what truly matters—family, health, and security. It’s encouraging to see companies like PFI Group listening and responding with solutions that reflect our values. In a world that’s constantly changing, it’s empowering to know we’re not alone in wanting to build smarter, bolder, and fuller lives.

“Contrary to a qualitative study released a few years back, young Filipinos now prioritize their health and families over investment growth,” PhilLife market study lead researcher Dr. Fernando Paragas said.

“The changed priorities perhaps resulted from the effects of the pandemic. It’s no longer just about growing your money, but growing your peace of mind.”

In response to the study’s findings, the PFI Group has launched an umbrella initiative for its four brands — PhilLife, PhilCare, PhilPlans, and PhilFirst. Called Smarter. Bolder. Fuller., the project marks the first time these industry-leading brands are coming together for a campaign aimed at young Filipinos.

“The Smarter. Bolder. Fuller. drive aims to meet today’s millennial Filipinos where they are in life and provide them with the tools to enable their needs, dreams, and aspirations for themselves and their families. It’s more than just a campaign–it’s a mindset. A declaration of who we are and who we want to be for every Filipino.”

A century of service

Founded in 1906, PhilFirst was the first insurance company in the country and the first to offer domestic non-life insurance plans for unexpected events like natural disasters and personal accidents. This paved the way for the creation of PFI Group’s other leading brands, broadening its ecosystem of protection and security.

PhilLife secures families and dreams with life protection and savings plans. PhilCare makes healthcare more accessible, proactive, and responsive. PhilPlans celebrates life’s milestones with its various plan offerings.

These companies have evolved with the times—like adopting digital technologies, offering prepaid options, and enhancing customer experience—to ensure they meet the evolving needs of a digitally fluent and value-conscious Filipino market.

“Findings from the PhilLife study are more than just numbers, they are a call to action for businesses,” PhilCare and PhilLife Chairman of the Board Monico Jacob said.

“Young Filipinos are telling us what they value: protection, preparedness, and purpose. Companies that listen to them won’t just earn their trust, they’ll earn their loyalty. At PFI Group, this is exactly the kind of insight that drives innovation.”

Championing the next generation

With the rise of digital lifestyle and flexible work arrangement, PFI Group’s campaign also comes with a clear direction: serve the modern Filipino, particularly the Gen Zs and millennials who now represent a large part of the workforce.

“Through simplified insurance products, tech-enabled customer service, and value-driven financial planning, we are set to make protection more personal, more relevant, and more feasible for the young generation,” Tanco said.

“Whether it’s an entrepreneur thinking of getting a healthcare plan, a millennial parent investing in their child’s future, or a creative freelancer wanting to protect his online assets, we want to be there for them every step of the way.”

PhilLife and PhilCare Chairman of the Board Atty. Monico “Nick” Jacob (left) and Philippines First Insurance Group (PFI Group) President and CEO Jaeger L. Tanco (right) welcome new PFI Group Brand Advocate Dianne Medina (center) during the partnership signing at the PFI Group Makati headquarters

The campaign follows Tanco’s recent success at the esteemed 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, where he earned a Silver Stevie® for Most Innovative Leader of the Year for his work with PhilCare and a Gold Stevie® for Most Innovative Creative Person of the Year for his achievements at Comm&Sense.

Recognized as the region’s top honors for business innovation, the awards highlight Tanco’s forward-thinking approach—further reinforced by the PFI Group’s Smarter. Bolder. Fuller. campaign.

Actress and TV personality Dianne Medina has joined as a brand advocate for Smarter. Bolder. Fuller. to help convey PFI Group’s unified message of empowering Filipinos to live smarter, bolder, and more fulfilling lives.