Holy Week Exodus Gets a Safety Boost as Bell-Kenz Pharma Deploys AEDs to CPR-Trained Frontliners

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As millions of Filipino commuters prepare for the annual Holy Week exodus, transport frontliners—including bus drivers, conductors, and terminal personnel—are now better equipped to respond to medical emergencies, made possible through the strategic partnership between Bell-Kenz Pharma, various key transport stakeholders, and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Reinforcing its commitment to public safety, Bell-Kenz Pharma ceremonially turned over three Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on March 23, 2026—two units to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and one to the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT). This initiative strengthens the emergency response capabilities of frontline personnel during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.

The turnover builds on the success of the February 24, 2026 Sagip CPR training, “Paghahanda Para sa Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2026: Sagip CPR,” a collaboration between Bell-Kenz Pharma, DOTr, PITX, and other

The program trained over 800 transport personnel—including drivers, conductors, terminal staff, security personnel, and members of the Philippine Coast Guard—transforming them into capable first responders equipped with life-saving knowledge and skills.

Present at the landmark ceremonial turnover were Rear Admiral Oliver Sy Tanseco of the Philippine Coast Guard and Mr. Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma. The initiative also provided transport frontliners with hands-on training in Hands-Only CPR, proper AED use, heart health awareness, illness prevention in public transport settings, and emergency response protocols.

Highlighting the importance of sustained preparedness, Mr. Patrick Larraga of Bell-Kenz Pharma shared:

“This initiative is a continuation of the comprehensive training we conducted last February. Today, we are here to ensure the strategic placement of AEDs, increasing the chance of successfully reviving anyone who experiences a cardiac emergency in our transport system.”

On behalf of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, Rear Admiral Tanseco expressed appreciation for the partnership:

“The Philippine Coast Guard has always served with heart, and we are deeply grateful to Bell-Kenz Pharma for strengthening our frontline capabilities through these life-saving devices. We have enhanced pre-departure inspections because lives matter and every second counts.”

This coordinated effort brought together key stakeholders—including DOTr-SAICT, PITX, EDSA Bus Carousel Consortia, One Ayala, and Bell-Kenz Pharma—all united in advancing a safer, more resilient, and people-centered transport system.

“With flagship programs like Sagip CPR, Bell-Kenz Pharma is committed to empowering Filipinos with vital life-saving skills and tools, championing proactive healthcare at every step,” said Patrick Larraga.

By bridging training with action, the company reinforces its role as a committed Kaagapay in building a safer, healthier, and more responsive nation—ready to act decisively in medical emergencies.

For more information about Sagip CPR advocacy, visit www.bell-kenz.net.

SM strengthens stakeholder communication through online platform

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SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM group, is scaling up its stakeholder engagement efforts through SM In Focus, its online platform which has over 137,000 subscribers and generated over 2.5 million views since its launch in late 2024.

The milestone reflects SM’s broader push to strengthen transparency and accessibility in communicating business performance, innovation, and value creation across its integrated ecosystem in retail, property, and banking.

The platform is part of SM’s evolving approach to stakeholder communication, leveraging online channels to provide more timely, structured, and relevant insights on its operations and impact.

“SM In Focus enhances our ability to communicate the Group’s activities and outcomes in a more accessible and consistent manner,” said Rico Hizon, host and creator of SM in Focus.

Beyond external engagement, the initiative also supports internal alignment by enabling participation from across the organization. Contributors from various business units provide on-the-ground perspectives, reinforcing a more coordinated and enterprise-wide approach to communication.

“By engaging contributors across the Group, the platform strengthens collaboration and improves how we communicate our strategy and impact,” said Elizabeth Anne “Lizanne” Uychaco, Executive Vice President, Group Diversity Officer of SM Investments, and Executive Producer of SM In Focus.

To date, the platform has produced over 440 videos and accumulated more than 14,000 watch hours, indicating sustained audience engagement.

As SM continues to expand its operations, SM In Focus supports a more integrated and data-driven communication strategy, bridging internal insights with external engagement and enabling clearer articulation of the Group’s long-term value creation.

SM In Focus Host and Creator Rico Hizon shares the Youtube Silver Play Button for reaching an important 100,000 milestone with SM Investments Corporation Executive Vice President, Group Diversity Officer and SM in Focus Executive Producer Lizanne Uychaco.

Infinix Drives Digital Learning Forward as Tablet Sponsor for Universidad de Manila

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In a meaningful step toward advancing digital education in the Philippines, Infinix donated its latest XPAD 30E tablets to Universidad de Manila on March 25, 2026. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to empowering students and enhancing access to modern learning tools.

The turnover ceremony brought together key representatives from both organizations, including the University President of Universidad de Manila, Dr. Felima C. Tria, and Infinix Marketing Manager Charisma Buan. The formal handover of the tablets served as a powerful symbol of a shared vision to empower students through technology and open new pathways for learning.

From left to right: Atty. Rodolfo V. Castillo Jr., VP for Administration; Dr. Nenita Fajardo Buan, Dean of the Institute of Graduate and Professional Studies; Nancy J. Tejada, VP for Student Success and Support Services; Atty. Christian Patrick Labajoy, Head of Student Discipline and University Legal Counsel; Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President; Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager; Ms. Laarnie Hernandez, Staff, Office of the President; Ms. Ruthemia S. Albener, Head of the Supply Office; Dr. Rosalie M. Catu, Head of Student Activities and Organizations; and Mr. Jeffrey F. Litan, VP for Comptrollership.

This donation represents more than just a provision of devices; it marks the beginning of a partnership dedicated to building a more inclusive and technology-driven learning environment for Filipino students. “In this digital era, learning should never be limited by access. Infinix believes in supporting every Filipino student's journey by offering technology that makes digital learning more accessible and more powerful. And what better way to do that than by partnering with the leaders of tomorrow — UDM's top performing student leaders who are already setting the standard for their peers,” shared Buan.

Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President, receives the XPAD 30E tablet from Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager, during the official turnover ceremony.

The XPAD 30E is recognized as the first dedicated education tablet in the Philippines, purpose-built to support both academic and everyday learning. It offers access to over 120,000 premium learning resources, including curated, textbook-aligned courses and exercises, all available for free. With its AI Tutor On Tap, students can instantly get help with assignments and questions, making learning more interactive and efficient. The device also features an 11-inch FHD+ eye-care display, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience for extended study sessions.

Dr. Felima C. Tria expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating,

“Universidad de Manila is steadily moving toward a more digital approach in academics, and this partnership with Infinix aligns perfectly with that vision. The units will be entrusted to our top performing student leaders, individuals who we believe will make the most of every tool they are given. We are deeply grateful to Infinix for seeing the potential in our students and for choosing to invest in their growth in such a meaningful way.”

Top row (from left to right): Nancy J. Tejada, VP for Student Success and Support Services; Atty. Rodolfo V. Castillo Jr., VP for Administration; Atty. Christian Patrick Labajoy, Head of Student Discipline and University Legal Counsel; and Mr. Jeffrey F. Litan, VP for Comptrollership.

Bottom row (from left to right): Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager; and Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President.

Through this initiative, Infinix continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility, leveraging innovation not just to create products, but to create opportunities and empower the next generation of learners.

Learn more about the Infinix XPAD 30E and discover how it can transform everyday learning with smarter tools and accessible resources. Get yours today through the official Infinix website, or shop conveniently on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop to start your journey toward a more empowered and connected learning experience.

DTI to Mount 2026 National Food Fair, Expanding Market Opportunities for Filipino MSMEs

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will mount the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF) from April 8 to 12 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall. The event will feature over 320 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country engaged in food manufacturing, processing, and related enterprises.

As the country’s premier platform for Filipino food products, the NFF will showcase a wide range of regional flavors and culinary innovations from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It continues to serve as a strategic venue for enterprise development and market expansion.

Among the highlights are food concepts developed by former Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have transitioned into entrepreneurship. These enterprises demonstrate the potential of business development to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities in the Philippines.

This year’s Fair will highlight the coconut industry, one of the country’s priority agricultural sectors. In line with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), participating enterprises will showcase the sector’s versatility and export potential.

A dedicated Halal segment will feature certified and Halal-ready products. This initiative supports DTI’s efforts to expand the Philippines’ participation in the global Halal market through improved certification, standards compliance, and product development.

The DTI Business Connect Lounge will facilitate business matching between MSMEs and institutional buyers, including distributors and retailers. It aims to translate business discussions into supply agreements and long-term partnerships.

The Fair is open to the public, with free admission. Visitors may access product sampling, live demonstrations, and interactive activities. Buyers will have access to a curated pool of market-ready enterprises. MSMEs will benefit from expanded market linkages and business opportunities.

In line with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, the National Food Fair underscores the resilience, innovation, and global competitiveness of Filipino MSMEs.

Life in Manila captured with vivo X300 Pro

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 Manila-based multi-award-winning photographer Jamir Lyndon Lumbao is capturing everyday life with striking clarity, powered by vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit.

By profession, Lumbao works in the financial sector, but his creative journey began in 2014 when a friend invited him to join a photography group. What started as a simple introduction soon grew into a passion for street photograph - one that continues to shape how he sees the world.

“Street photography challenges me to capture candid moments, raw emotions, and real-life situations. It allows me to tell stories through unplanned and natural scenes, which I find both exciting and meaningful,” he said.

Inspired by renowned photographers and local creatives, Lumbao developed a style that blends artistic expression with technical precision. His work focuses on light and shadows, reflections, and telephoto compositions, often transforming everyday Manila scenes into images with an abstract and surreal mood.

“I would describe my photography style as creative and expressive, influenced by my background in art,” he said.

This vision is elevated by the Telephoto King vivo X300 Pro, powered by a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera. Built for capturing distant subjects with striking clarity and depth, the device has earned global recognition, including a top score in DxOMark’s telephoto evaluation.

For Lumbao, the difference is clear when shooting in real-world city conditions.

“My experience with the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit in real-world city shooting was excellent. It’s a clear upgrade from my X100, especially for capturing distant subjects, and the telephoto extender makes it incredibly easy to get sharp, detailed shots from far away,” he shared.

The vivo X300 Pro supports 85mm optical zoom and, when paired with the vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender, expands its reach up to 5400mm. Engineered with advanced optics, the extender enhances clarity, minimizes distortion, and enables photographers to capture scenes that would otherwise be out of reach.

Complementing this capability is the vivo PGYTECH Imaging Grip Kit, designed to provide better control, comfort, and endurance for creators on the move.

“The standout features for me were definitely the grip and the lens, and together they completely transform the shooting experience. The grip feels incredibly comfortable and secure in hand, making long shooting sessions much easier, and the physical controls for exposure compensation, zoom, and video give you a more precise, camera-like feel that makes capturing moments quicker and more intuitive,” Lumbao shared.

Beyond ergonomics, the lens itself delivers a noticeable leap in image quality, especially for distant subjects.

“What really takes it to the next level, though, is the lens. It delivers stunning clarity and detail, especially when shooting distant subjects, allowing you to capture scenes that would normally be out of reach. The added reach, combined with sharp image quality and excellent depth, makes every shot look more professional,” Lumbao said.

One of Lumbao’s most memorable moments highlights the power of this setup. While photographing a sunset, he noticed a subject from afar and quickly adjusted his position to frame the scene.

He shared, “This was one of my most memorable shots. I was photographing the sunset when I noticed a subject on the other side. I quickly moved to the spot and carefully aligned the subject inside the sun. The light was changing fast, and I thought I might miss the moment since the sun was setting so quickly.”

With the telephoto extender, he was able to capture the shot with precision and clarity.

“Thanks to the tele extender on the vivo X300 Pro, I was able to zoom in from a distance and frame the shot perfectly without losing detail. It gave me the reach and clarity I needed to capture this precise moment, turning it into a truly special and unforgettable image,” he added.

Through Lumbao’s work, the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit demonstrates how advanced mobile imaging can empower creators to capture stories as they unfold, combining reach, precision, and creative freedom in a single device.

As Manila continues to move in rhythm with light, life, and emotion, tools like the vivo X300 Pro are helping photographers turn everyday moments into lasting visual stories.

The vivo X300 Series is available in concept stores nationwide and online via the vivo e-store (X300 and X300 Pro), Lazada, and Shopee at a starting price of Php 68,999.