Bam Aquino fulfills campaign promise with launching of RLE financial assistance for nursing, allied health sciences students

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Another campaign promise fulfilled for Senator Bam Aquino as his Related Learning Experience (RLE) financial assistance program was formally launched on Monday by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through the AHEAD (Allied Health Experiential Assistance for Deserving Students) grant.

Aquino helped secure the P500 million allocation in the 2026 national budget to help cover the RLE expenses of nursing and allied health sciences students during his time as chairperson of the Committee on Basic Education.

In a Facebook post, Aquino said 19,000 qualified allied health science students may receive a one-time ₱25,000 RLE subsidy under the AHEAD grant.

“Malaking ginhawa ito para sa ating mga nursing at allied health students na matagal ding nag-alala kung paano mababayaran ang kanilang Related Learning Experience (RLE) at clinical internship fees habang nagsasanay para makapaglingkod sa bayan,” Aquino announced.

During the 2025 senatorial campaign, Aquino vowed during his meetings with nursing students to address their concerns over the high cost of RLE, which is similar to on-the-job training (OJT) and is required for graduation.

“Matagal nating ipinaglaban na mabigyan ng suporta ang ating mga future healthcare professionals, kaya naman napakahalagang hakbang ng paglulunsad ng AHEAD (Allied Health Experiential Assistance for Deserving Students) grant ng CHED upang mas marami pang kabataang Pilipino ang makapagpatuloy sa kanilang pag-aaral at mas mapalapit sa kanilang pangarap na maging healthcare professionals,” he stressed.

Aquino expressed gratitude to CHED, under the leadership of Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis, for creating this program, swiftly releasing the guidelines, and developing the portal that students can use to apply for the RLE subsidy.

During the launch, 10 nursing students from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar) held a ceremonial enrollment via the online application portal for the AHEAD grant.

𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗻𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗺 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 lead the 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱breaking Ceremony 𝗼f 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀’ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 3𝗗-𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴

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Caritas Manila and the Onocom Group marked a historic milestone in Philippine construction and humanitarian innovation with the groundbreaking ceremony for the country’s first 3D-printed building at the Caritas Manila Headquarters in Paco, Manila last May 20, 2026.

The multi-purpose facility, donated through the collaborative efforts of Onocom Japan, Onocom Philippines, and Providere Onocom, highlights how emerging construction technologies can be utilized to support social development initiatives.

The initiative introduces large-scale 3D concrete printing technology to the Philippines. By using automated systems that build structures layer by layer, the technology offers a more efficient construction process while minimizing material waste and improving precision.

Caritas Manila, the lead social service and development ministry of the Archdiocese of Manila, was chosen as the beneficiary of the project in recognition of its long-standing commitment to serving vulnerable communities through education, disaster response, livelihood programs, and poverty alleviation efforts.

The Onocom Group is recognized for integrating Japanese engineering standards, innovation, and modern construction practices into sustainable and people-centered developments since 1934.

The donated 3D-printed structure is envisioned to serve as a venue for training programs, religious activities, social development initiatives, and disaster response operations.

For Caritas Manila, the partnership reflects its continuing mission to bring hope and opportunities to underserved communities through innovative and sustainable programs.

“We hope that this multipurpose center brings people together to appreciate both charity and innovation,” said Rev. Fr. Anton C.T. Pascual, Executive Director of Caritas Manila.

As construction begins on the country’s first 3D-printed building, the project stands as proof that technology can become a powerful instrument for social good.

#CaritasManila 

#CharityWorks 

#3DPrintedBuilding #GroundbreakingCeremony 

#OnocomJapan 

#OnocomPhilippines 

#ProvidereOnocom 

#Innovation 

#Historic 

#First3DPrintedBuildingPH

Vena Energy Delivers Second Community Fund Turnover to Quezon Indigenous Peoples

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Quezon Wind Energy Corp. (QWEC), a subsidiary of Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider across the Asia-Pacific region, marked another key milestone in its community relations efforts through a check turnover ceremony today in Quezon City for its host community, the Dumagat/Remontado Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of General Nakar, Quezon.

The event demonstrated Vena Energy’s continuous efforts in supporting its host communities beyond respecting their rights and heritage. The turnover formalizes the Quezon IPs’ receipt of their community funds under the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) process, through the Pigtaanan ne Dumagat – Remontado de General Nakar, Quezon (PDRGNQ), the Implementing IP Organization.

This partnership reflects Vena Energy’s support for community-led development initiatives based on the priorities identified by the host IPs. These include infrastructure improvements, access to education, sustainable livelihood programs, and improved healthcare.

Dr. Carlos Buasen, Jr. - NCIP Region 4A Regional Director; Thelma P. Aumentado - IPMR (Quezon Province); Melecio Rotaquio - Chairman of the Board of Directors, Pigtaanan ne Dumagat Remontado de General Nakar Quezon (PDRGNQ), Inc.; Mia Jarumayan - Vena Group, Head of Business Development - Project Development; IPs: Yolanda Monica, Gloria dela Cruz, Rea Reyes, Orlando Surbano Jr., Lorena Petores, Macario dela Cruz, Brgy. Captain Orlando Surbano Sr., Solita Vertrodis, Leonardo Pranada; Dr. Donato B. Bumacas - Provincial Officer, NCIP Region 4A, QPO

Vena Energy representatives led by Mia Jarumayan, Head of Business Development, Project Development, attended the event alongside Quezon IP leaders and elders. Samrinder Nehria, Head of Vena Energy in the Philippines, stated, “Empowering the Quezon IPs is at the heart of our mission. We are dedicated to ensuring that our green energy initiatives translate into tangible, long-term benefits for the communities that graciously host us, fostering a future built on mutual respect and sustainable progress.”

A Sustainable Partnership

Such partnerships have proven to be a successful model for private-public collaborations in the renewable energy sector. As Vena Energy strictly adheres to the FPIC process, all of the company’s projects continue to be built based on transparent communication and mutual respect. “Ang matatag na suporta mula sa Vena Energy ay nagbibigay ng lakas ng loob sa aming komunidad na isulong ang makabuluhang pag-unlad habang pinapangalagaan ang aning pamanang kultural. ” shared Melecio Rotaquio, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Pigtaanan ne Dumagat Remontado de General Nakar Quezon (PDRGNQ), Inc.

National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 4A Regional Director Dr. Carlos Buasen, Jr. added, “It is inspiring to witness a corporate partner truly value the ancestral domains and the people who protect them. Vena Energy sets a remarkable standard for responsible and inclusive community engagement.”

This second check turnover ceremony, following the 21 April ceremony with the Tanay Dumagat Remontado Indigenous Cultural Communities, is a further demonstration of Vena Energy’s commitment to its partnerships with indigenous communities across Quezon, grounded in shared growth and mutual respect. By integrating community-led development into its core operations, Vena Energy reinforces its dedication to honoring ancestral domain rights and supporting self-determination. This reflects how renewable energy can contribute not only to the national grid, but to the long-term aspirations of the Filipino people.

Sagip CPR Training Empowers Cebuanos with Life-Saving Hands-Only CPR Skill

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Cebu City, Philippines — At a time when public health awareness and emergency preparedness are more important than ever, Bell-Kenz Pharma successfully conducted its Sagip CPR Training Program in Cebu, equipping participants with essential Hands-Only CPR skills to respond effectively during life-threatening situations.

Held at Southwestern University PHINMA, Sagip CPR successfully trained 1,500 new “everyday heroes”—students, community members, and frontline workers united by a shared commitment to learn life-saving Hands-Only CPR. The strong turnout underscores a growing awareness that in critical moments, the first responder is often an ordinary person ready to act.

According to Ms. Maita G. Magalong, Vice President for Student Life of SouthWestern University PHINMA, “ the significance of Sagip CPR training lies  in our shared goal of providing a safe environment - one that can only be achieved when we are equipped with the skills to respond effectively during emergencies.”

“We see Cebu as

a key area where community preparedness can truly make an impact,” shared Patrick Larraga, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma

Larraga further added,  “Every individual trained represents a stronger chance of survival for someone in need. In critical moments, courage and action matter more than hesitation, and that is exactly what we aim to instill in every participant. With more people trained in Hands-Only CPR, we are building a network of everyday heroes ready to respond in emergencies.”

The Cebu leg in Cebu City is part of a much larger nationwide movement. What began as a simple public service initiative has evolved into a large-scale public health nationwide movement—training thousands of Filipinos and rapidly expanding its footprint nationwide.

Since its inception in August 2025  at PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College, Bell-Kenz Pharma has rolled out Sagip CPR in key areas across the country, including Metro Manila, Northern Luzon,  and Central Luzon,  to Nabua (Camarines Sur), Polangui (Albay),  Naga, to Panay Island including Iloilo City, Roxas City (Capiz), Aklan and Antique; to General Santos City and North Cotabato in Mindanao.

Strengthening its scale and impact, Bell-Kenz Sagip CPR is backed by key partnerships with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and various local government units nationwide—enabling the program to reach transport hubs, public spaces, and grassroots communities more effectively. Through these collaborations, Sagip CPR continues to grow not just in size, but in significance—transforming everyday Filipinos into capable first responders and reinforcing a culture of preparedness across the country.

Sagip CPR of Bell-Kenz Pharma  also supports ongoing efforts by both public and private sectors to enhance safety standards in a region known for its economic activity, educational institutions, and tourism-driven environment.

As Cebu continues to grow as one of the country’s leading urban centers, initiatives like Sagip CPR underscore the importance of not just development—but resilience. By equipping communities with life-saving knowledge today, Bell-Kenz Pharma helps ensure a safer, more responsive Cebu for the future.

For more information about Sagip CPR and Bell-Kenz Pharma, visit https://www.bell-kenz.net/  

Vena Energy Formalizes Community Support through a Check Turnover Ceremony to host Indigenous Cultural Communities

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Quezon Wind Energy Corp. (QWEC), a subsidiary of Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider across the Asia-Pacific region, marked a key milestone in its community engagement efforts through a check turnover ceremony for its host community, the Dumagat/Remontado Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) of Tanay. The ceremony was held in Quezon City on 21 April 2026.

The event reflects Vena Energy’s continued commitment to inclusive development and to respecting the rights and heritage of its host communities. The turnover formalizes the remittance of community funds to the Tanay ICCs through the Tanay Dumagat Remontado Ancestral Domain Development, Inc. (TDRADDEVI), the Implementing Indigenous Peoples’ Organization (IPOs) established through the Free, Prior and Informed Consent process.

Through this partnership, Vena Energy supports community-led development initiatives aligned with the priorities identified by the ICCs, including infrastructure improvements, access to education, sustainable livelihood programs, and enhanced healthcare services.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from Vena Energy, led by Mia Jarumayan, Head of Business Development, Project Development and leaders of the Tanay ICCs, led by Eleonor Atencio, President, Tanay Dumagat Remontado Ancestral Domain Development, Inc.

Samrinder Nehria, Head of Vena Energy in the Philippines, said, “At Vena Energy, we believe the transition to clean energy should create lasting value for the communities we work with while honoring the heritage and rights of our host communities. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that development is inclusive and celebrates our shared journey toward a sustainable future where indigenous voices are heard and valued.”

A Model for Sustainable Partnership

The collaboration shows a successful model for private-public partnerships in the renewable energy sector. By strictly adhering to the FPIC process, Vena Energy ensures that all projects are built on a foundation of mutual respect and transparent communication.

“Vena Energy has been a very active and supportive partner throughout the years, and we are very grateful for the opportunities that this partnership has brought to our community, boosting our confidence in our own capabilities and inspiring us to grow,” said Eleonor Atencio, President of TDRADDEVI.

NCIP R4A Regional Director Dr. Carlos Buasen, Jr. shared, “We are happy to have a continuously harmonious relationship with a company like Vena Energy, whose sustainability efforts aren't just focused on its business but as well as the people and their ancestral domains that are affected by it.”

This turnover represents a meaningful partnership between Vena Energy and the ICCs, grounded in shared growth and mutual respect. By integrating community-led development into its core operations, Vena Energy reinforces its commitment to honoring ancestral domain rights and supporting self-determination. This collaboration demonstrates how renewable energy can contribute not only to the national grid, but also to the long-term aspirations of the Filipino people, built on a foundation of genuine equity and care.

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ABOUT VENA GROUP

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a leading green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy and digital infrastructure arms, Vena Group delivers integrated, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that enable the region’s transition to a low-carbon, AI-driven future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

ABOUT VENA ENERGY

Vena Energy is a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, accelerating the transition to sustainable and affordable renewable energy that delivers lasting environmental, social, and economic benefits to host communities and stakeholders.

We deliver green energy solutions through a renewable power portfolio of 38GW across Onshore Wind, Solar, and Offshore Wind projects[1], and a green energy infrastructure pipeline including 25GWh of BESS[2] and 848 KTPA of Green Hydrogen and Ammonia.

With over 1,000 employees across 80 corporate and site offices globally, Vena Energy is committed to advancing the adoption of low-carbon energy, contributing to global climate goals, and engineering a greener future.

For more information, please visit www.venaenergy.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.

Respect Starts Young: EastWest Rural Bank Honors Values-Driven Students Nationwide

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Marking its 10th year, the I RESPECT Awards recognize children who practice kindness, empathy, and responsibility in school and community life

During graduation ceremonies nationwide, 83 elementary students received the EastWest Rural Bank I RESPECT Awards and cash incentives in recognition of values-driven leadership

Respect learned early creates a force for good that lasts a lifetime. Guided by this belief, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB), EastWest Banking Corporation’s rural banking arm, continues its annual I RESPECT Awards campaign—honoring young Filipino students who demonstrate respect for people, the environment, and social, cultural, and spiritual beliefs.

This year, 83 elementary students from regions across the country were recognized during their graduation ceremonies. Each awardee received a cash incentive as part of the recognition.

Now in its 10th year, the I RESPECT Awards celebrate children whose everyday actions reflect empathy, kindness, and responsibility—values observed and affirmed by their teachers. Awardees are recognized not only for academic performance, but also for how they treat others, care for their surroundings, and practice good citizenship in simple, meaningful ways.

Through the campaign, EWRB reinforces its core value of RESPECT and underscores that values-based leadership can begin early. By spotlighting children who choose compassion, inclusion, and integrity, the Bank aims to inspire more young Filipinos to be positive influences in their schools and communities.

“Respect is shaped through example, and these young awardees remind us that values can be lived at any age,” said EWRB President Sheila Marasigan-Bajado. “By recognizing children who choose respect—for people, for culture, and for the environment—we invest in a future led by empathy, responsibility, and shared humanity.”

The I RESPECT Awards campaign is part of EWRB’s broader advocacy for community development, reinforcing the belief that nation-building starts with character—and that when values are nurtured early, their impact can span generations.

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.

GEMs for Tomorrow: Nurturing Young Minds with Discovery Samal

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Discovery Samal has long recognized its people as “Samal GEMs,” a name drawn from the values of being genuine, enthusiastic, and memorable. These GEMs are known for shaping the guest experience, extending their role beyond the resort through community initiatives and engagement programs. With GEMs for Tomorrow, Discovery Samal brings that same spirit into a focused effort that supports young learners and strengthens ties with surrounding communities.

Discovery Samal launched its 2026 GEMs for Tomorrow program on February 28, 2026, through an outreach in Barangay New Carmen, Tugbok District, where the team connected with local children by distributing school supplies, serving meals prepared by its chefs, and initiating a longer-term education-focused effort.

GEMs for Tomorrow forms part of Discovery Samal’s broader CSR direction, centered on building meaningful relationships within grassroots communities through education. The program focuses on underserved sectors, with children as primary beneficiaries, marking a more active step toward sustained engagement with the community.

Reaching the Grassroots

GEMs for Tomorrow is designed as an ongoing campaign that builds on previous outreach initiatives, maintaining a consistent focus on young beneficiaries. The selection of Barangay New Carmen in Tugbok District reflects an intent to work within communities where educational support can be reinforced through both material assistance and structured engagement. The program emphasizes not only resource distribution but the creation of opportunities for learning, making education the central thread across its activities.

The February 28 activity functioned as an initial introduction between the Discovery Samal team and the children. School supplies were distributed during the visit, accompanied by meals prepared by the resort’s chefs, creating an environment that allowed for informal interaction, focusing on establishing familiarity and trust.

Laying the Groundwork for Learning

Future visits under GEMs for Tomorrow will include structured learning sessions facilitated by Discovery Samal team members in coordination with local teachers. These sessions aim to support classroom instruction and contribute to the children’s development over time. The initial outreach serves as a preparatory step, setting the tone for a longer-term engagement that fosters collaboration with the school community.

Beyond the Initiative

GEMs for Tomorrow reflects Discovery Samal’s continuing effort to align its CSR initiatives with education and community-building. The program signals a move toward sustained involvement, in which impact is measured by ongoing presence and deeper community ties. Barangay New Carmen marks the starting point of this engagement, with plans to further develop the initiative in the months ahead.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happiest Pinoy Goes Digital, Launches #SimpleJoysPH Movement Celebrating Everyday Filipino Joy

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Across the Philippines, stories of resilience and optimism continue to shape everyday life. These moments, whether big or small, reflect a shared sense of hope that defines the Filipino spirit.

Recognizing the importance of these stories, Cebuana Lhuillier is evolving its Happiest Pinoy initiative into a dynamic, year-round digital movement that celebrates not only extraordinary journeys, but also the simple joys found in daily life.

Originally a nationwide search honoring individuals who embody hope despite life's challenges, the initiative now shifts to a digital-first platform designed to engage a broader community. This transformation enables more Filipinos to actively share stories that reflect positivity, resilience, and hope.

"As we continue to evolve Happiest Pinoy, our goal is to make it more inclusive and accessible to every Filipino,"said Jean Henri Luillier, President and CEO of CebuanaLhuillier. "Filipinos are naturally resilient and optimistic. Through this digital movement, we want to celebrate not only extraordinary stories, but also the everyday moments that reflect the quiet strength and positivity of our people."

At the heart of this new chapter is the #SimpleJoysPH campaign, a nationwide call for user-generated content that captures happiness in its simplest forms-from family bonding and personal milestones to small victories and everyday acts of kindness. The campaign reinforces a powerful message: even in adversity, there are always reasons to remain hopeful.

The movement draws inspiration from individuals like 2025 Happiest Pinoy winner Zacarias Mansing. His remarkable journey of transforming personal adversity into a nationwide mission for children's literacy resonated deeply across the country. Selected from more than 500,000 entries, his win stands as one of the most extraordinary milestones in Cebuana Lhuillier's advocacy-demonstrating how purpose-driven action can create far-reaching impact.

Complementing the campaign is the Happiest Pinoy Songwriting and Dance Viral Challenge, designed to engage younger audiences through creative expression. Participants are invited to dance to the official Happiest Pinoy song and share their interpretations on TikTok, turning messages of joy and resilience into a shared digital experience.

Beyond digital participation, Happiest Pinoy continues to honor its legacy by spotlighting the journeys of past winners and finalists-individuals who have overcome life's toughest challenges and transformed them into stories of hope. By amplifying these narratives, the movement reinforces its commitment to recognizing real-life inspiration.

Through this expanded platform, Happiest Pinoy evolves from a traditional search into a sustained nationwide movement-one that uplifts, connects, and inspires Filipinos across generations.

Filipinos are invited to take part by sharing their own stories of joy and perseverance.

For more information on how to join the #SimpleJoysPH campaign and upcoming activities, visit the official Happiest Pinoy page.

Grab and MOVE IT partner with ARK, drive urban food security among rider communities

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Grab Philippines and MOVE IT have partnered with social impact innovator ARK Solves to launch a community-led food security program aimed at helping gig worker communities build more sustainable and self-reliant food sources.

Nearly 1,000 Grab delivery-partners and MOVE IT rider-partners have signed up in the pilot rollout of the ARK’s flagship community exchange program ‘Feed Back’

At the center of the partnership is Feed Back, ARK Solves’ flagship community exchange program that enables families to grow fresh produce at home and share excess harvests with their neighbors, helping strengthen food access at the community level.

The collaboration comes amid continuing concerns over food security in the Philippines. While government data showed food inflation easing to 0.7 percent in January 2026, down from 1.2 percent in December 2025 and 4.0 percent a year earlier, the Department of Agriculture said the gains remain fragile and could easily be undone by renewed supply disruptions[1].

Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda shares: “Grab remains committed to helping our driver- and delivery-partners and their families stay resilient in the face of shifting macroeconomic realities. Beyond ensuring that livelihood opportunities on our platform remain viable, we believe it is equally important to introduce support programs that reinforce their long-term well-being. Through our partnership with ARK Solves, we hope to help more gig worker families build more sustainable lives and greater food security for the future.”

The partnership was formally launched with the support of the local government units of Montalban, San Mateo, and Antipolo in Rizal, where the program will be piloted among Grab and MOVE IT’s rider community. So far, almost 700 community leaders and rider-partners from the platforms have signed up and begun receiving seeds, along with training on how to grow food and compost even in small spaces.

“Community has always been at the heart of MOVE IT. Our rider-partners look out for each other, and we see that every day in how they support one another on and off the road,” highlights MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto. “Our role is not just to recognize that strong sense of solidarity, but to help harness it, so riders can come together and co-create sustainable programs that support their everyday needs.”

Over the course of the 16-week program, participating riders will help expand access to fresh produce within their households and communities. Once harvests are ready, they will lead weekly exchange activities in their neighborhoods, allowing families and neighbors to share surplus crops with one another.

“This partnership is a major milestone, as we work with Grab and MOVE IT in showcasing how we can enable Feed Back’s impact to thrive wherever it is needed the most, including urban areas,” says Ayesha Vera-Yu, CEO and Co-Founder of ARK.

By combining behavior-change principles with a market-based approach, Feed Back helps families build and sustain productive home gardens that strengthen access to localized food sources. The program, which gathers multiple partners, has since scaled to 120 communities across the country, benefiting more than 36,000 fishing and farming households.

Following the initial rollout, Grab, MOVE IT and ARK Solves plan to expand the program to more driver- and rider-rich communities in the months ahead, applying lessons from the pilot to improve the model as it scales.

About Grab

Grab is a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, operating across the deliveries, mobility and digital financial services sectors. Serving over 700 cities in eight Southeast Asian countries - Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - Grab enables millions of people everyday to order food or groceries, send packages, hail a ride or taxi, pay for online purchases or access services such as lending and insurance, all through a single app. Grab was founded in 2012 with the mission to drive Southeast Asia forward by creating economic empowerment for everyone, and strives to serve a triple bottom line: to simultaneously deliver financial sustainability and have a positive social and environmental impact in Southeast Asia.

About ARK Solves

ARK is an award-winning social impact innovator. With over 120+ partner communities and over 200,000 lives impacted, ARK has become the go-to food security solution in the Philippines, proving that hunger can be solved for good.

For more information, email info@arksolves.org and visit fb.com/ARKSolves for latest updates.

[1] https://www.da.gov.ph/da-eyes-supply-fixes-to-head-off-food-inflation-pressure/remains

DITO Offers Free Calls to Help Filipinos Connect with Loved Ones in the Middle East

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In response to the ongoing conflict affecting parts of the Middle East, DITO Telecommunity is offering free calls to help Overseas Filipinos and their families stay connected during this time of uncertainty.

The initiative supports the Philippine government’s efforts to ensure Filipinos abroad and their loved ones back home remain connected and informed during times of crisis.

“Filipinos are connected not only by family, but by technology,” said Ernesto R. Alberto,

President and Chief Executive Officer of DITO Telecommunity. “We stand with the Philippine government in supporting and protecting our kababayans abroad. DITO remains committed to weaving Filipino communities together wherever they may be through reliable connectivity.”

From March 9 to 13, 2026, DITO subscribers roaming in select Middle East countries will receive a one-time allocation of up to five (5) minutes of free incoming calls from DITO numbers in the Philippines. Standard roaming call rates will apply after the free five-minute allocation.

The assistance covers Filipinos in Bahrain, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Lebanon.

“Moments like these remind us that access to communication and information should never be out of reach,” said Adel Tamano, Chief Commercial Officer of DITO Telecommunity. “At DITO, we believe connectivity is essential—especially when it allows families to check on one another and stay safe.”

The initiative reflects DITO’s continuing commitment to nation-building and to supporting

Filipinos wherever they may be, ensuring that distance never stands between families when they need each other most.

Customers who may need assistance placing calls may also visit DITO Experience Stores at SM Megamall and SM North EDSA.

DENR cites SM for group-wide efforts on plastic recovery and waste management

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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recognized the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility Program (EPR) that aimed to reduce plastic use, recover plastic packaging, and strengthen on-ground waste systems across its diverse business units.

(From left to right) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Atty. Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla; SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions and SM GUUN President George Cheung; SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels; SM Retail, Inc. Vice President for Sustainability Suyin Liu; Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) President Engr. Jess G. Reyes; DENR Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Jacqueline A. Caancan.

In a recently concluded event on January 30, 2026, the DENR cited SM’s coordinated group approach that went beyond compliance under Republic Act No. 11898, also known as the EPR Law of 2022, particularly in ‘advancing recovery, reduction, innovation, and inclusive circular economy practices that support the national Zero Waste to Nature agenda.’

“This award is a credit to every part of the SM group, and we're very grateful to receive it. From our retail business, to our banks and logistics companies, they have been reducing their plastic footprints in their packaging and influencing consumer behavior to use less plastic,” said SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels.

SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its #SMWasteFreeFuture project, has partnered with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co., Ltd to convert waste back into new materials at their first waste processing factory in Consolacion, Cebu.

To further enhance the development of waste conversion, SM has installed RDC-labeled (recyclable, disposable, compostable) bins across various SM properties nationwide. Recyclables, such as bottles, cans, and paper, are sorted and sent to their respective recycling plants. Meanwhile, disposables such as cups, straws, and rags are converted into replacement fuel for cement kilns. Compostables, or food scraps, are converted to landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the Group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” said SM GUUN President George Cheung who is also concurrently SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions.

The #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign consolidates various initiatives across SM’s ecosystem of businesses into a centralized system, communicating its commitment to environmental stewardship and championing sustainable communities.

Under this initiative, other SM companies, such as SM Supermalls continue to lead with its long-running Trash-to-Cash (TTC) monthly recycling market held in SM malls nationwide, where customers can exchange recyclables such as paper, plastic, metal or even appliances for cash. TTC facilitates the exchange of over 1.5 million kilograms of recyclables every year. Customers can also find the E-Waste Collection bins in Cyberzone areas and the Plastic Waste Collection vans in 15 malls.

In addition, SM Markets, the SM Group’s umbrella brand for SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore, has ushered in greener retail practices in encouraging the use of eco-bags over single-use plastics since 2007. In 2025 alone, SM Markets sold 20.8 million Green Bags, equivalent to around 31.2 million plastic bags avoided.

“When we look at plastics, which is a significant problem in the Philippines, we have looked to take quite a range of actions across the group. But what they have in common is that they are very practical, they are commercially viable initiatives, and they all have actual meaningful differences that we make to the plastics problem,” said Mr. Daniels.

Vena Energy Turns Over 1,000 “Seats for Sustainability” to Talim Island Schools, Improving the Learning Environment for Students While Creating Livelihood for Locals

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Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions company in the Asia-Pacific region, has successfully turned over 1,000 handcrafted armchairs to elementary schools in the municipalities of Binangonan and Cardona on Talim Island.

The initiative, titled, “Seats for Sustainability,” was led by Vena Energy’s subsidiary, Island Wind Energy Corp. (IWEC). It marks a significant milestone in the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, delivering a dual impact: improving the learning environment for thousands of students while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for the island’s residents.

Empowering Education in Remote Communities

The turnover ceremonies were held on 22 January 2026 at Kasile Covered Court (Binangonan) and 23 January 2026 at Lambac Covered Court (Cardona). The donation benefits multiple schools, including Kasile Elementary School, Bombong Elementary School, Kinagatan Elementary School, and Lambac Elementary School.

For remote areas like Talim Island, logistical challenges often hinder the delivery of school facilities. This donation addresses a critical infrastructure gap, ensuring that students have access to comfortable, DepEd-standard furniture that fosters a better learning environment.

From Skills to Livelihood

What sets the “Seats for Sustainability” project apart is its commitment to the local circular economy. Rather than sourcing furniture from external suppliers, Vena Energy partnered with local communities to manufacture the chairs.

Residents were trained by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in carpentry and craftsmanship. Following their training, these local community members were hired by Vena Energy to build the 1,000 chairs. This not only ensured the furniture met quality standards but also injected income directly into local households, turning a charitable donation into a driver for economic empowerment.

A Commitment to Host Communities

“Seats for Sustainability” aligns with Vena Energy’s broader CSR strategy, which prioritizes Education, Infrastructure Development, and Community Well-being. By engaging the community in the solution, the company reinforces its core value of enabling sustainable social and economic development within its host communities.

“We believe that empowering a community means giving them the necessary tools to build their own future,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of The Philippines at Vena Energy. “This project is special because the fathers and neighbors of these students built the very chairs their children will sit on. It is a story of pride, resilience, and sustainability.”

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from IWEC, local government officials from Binangonan and Cardona, school officials, and residents of Talim Island.

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About Vena Group

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a leading green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy and digital infrastructure arms, Vena Group delivers integrated, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that enable the region’s transition to a low-carbon, AI-driven future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

About Vena Energy

Vena Energy is a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, accelerating the transition to sustainable and affordable renewable energy that delivers lasting environmental, social, and economic benefits to host communities and stakeholders.

We deliver green energy solutions through a renewable power portfolio of 38GW across Onshore Wind, Solar, and Offshore Wind projects[1], and a green energy infrastructure pipeline including 25GWh of BESS[2] and 848 KTPA of Green Hydrogen and Ammonia.

Bell-Kenz Pharma and DOTr-SAICT Scale Up Sagip CPR Advocacy to Protect Millions of Filipino Commuters

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Following the successful launch of its national advocacy last year, Bell-Kenz Pharma is intensifying its mission to train one million Filipinos in life-saving skills by entering a strategic partnership with the Department of Transportation’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT).

STRENGTHENING THE FRONTLINES. (L-R) Enzo Nicolas, Anica Mayo, and Erika Asuncion of Bell-Kenz Pharma; Corporate Branding and PR Head Patrick Larraga; and Anna Leah Morales of DOTr-SAICT (representing Asec. Jose F. Lim IV), with PCG-SAICT operatives.

The collaboration aims to integrate the Sagip CPR program into the DOTr’s flagship road safety campaign, Oplan Biyaheng Ayos. By targeting the very frontliners who manage the nation’s major ports, thoroughfares, terminals, busways, and airports, the partnership ensures that emergency medical intervention is available 24/7.

A Critical Response for the Frontlines

The necessity of this partnership is underscored by the daily realities on the ground. Anna Leah Morales, Supervising Transportation Regulation Officer representing the Office of the SAICT under Assistant Secretary Jose F. Lim IV, noted the frequency of medical emergencies in public spaces.

"We encounter approximately two individuals per month showing symptoms of cardiac events on busways, overpasses, and terminals.," Morales shared. "Our personnel are often the first to reach passengers in distress. We encounter approximately two individuals per month showing symptoms of cardiac events on busways, overpasses, and terminals. Equipping our teams with CPR certification is no longer just an added skill—it is a fundamental enhancement of our duty to protect. This partnership operationalizes the President’s and Secretary Lopez’s mandate: that safety is our paramount deliverable.”

Empowering the 400-Strong Enforcement Team

The first phase of the campaign focuses on training the 400-strong members of the DOTr-SAICT enforcement team. These officers are alternately deployed round the clock to monitor public safety.

Patrick Larraga, Bell-Kenz Pharma’s Corporate Branding and PR Head, emphasized the importance of the DOTr’s reach.

"To build a nation of lifesavers, we must start where the people are," said Larraga. “The DOTr’s unparalleled network is the ultimate platform for the Sagip CPR mission. By first certifying SAICT and Coast Guard personnel, then extending to major bus consortiums and terminal operators, we are weaving a life-saving safety net directly into the journey of millions of Filipinos.”

A Phased Nationwide Rollout

The program is designed for maximum impact through a strategic, tiered implementation. Starting in Metro Manila, the initiative will focus on high-density areas where commuter volume is highest. After the initial training of SAICT which includes Coast Guard personnel, the program will move to capacitate major bus operators and terminal staff, ensuring a comprehensive safety net for the commuting public.

Following the Metro Manila launch, Bell-Kenz Pharma and the DOTr-SAICT plan to gradually scale the training nationwide, reaching different regional partners and transport hubs across the country to ensure no Filipino commuter is left unprotected.

For more information about Sagip CPR advocacy of Bell-Kenz Pharma, visit www.bell-kenz.net.