Fil-Am Alan and Amabel De Leon: Power partnership in love and for home health

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Filipino immigrants to the USA Alan De Leon and Amabel Nugpo-De Leon tied the knot 25 years ago and nurtured their partnership towards entrepreneurial success and long-lasting romance.

Initially there were risks. Amabel dropped her years of working in nursing facilities to become a businesswoman with a hubby for a business partner. And then Alan had to relinquish his role as Director of Rehabilitation for a clinic so he could run a home health agency with his wife.

Fil-Am power couple in health care Alan De Leon and Amabel Nugpo-De Leon 

They were eyeing a level-up, purpose-filled kind of living the American Dream.

Kudos for them for their commitment. They eventually established the Vanura Homehealth Services in California’s Inland Empire Region where they also raised their own family. They were blessed with three lovable sons (Alec, Aaron, and Andre) and an entrepreneurial run that has kept growing to this day.

Armed with strong spirituality and passion for health care professionalism, their first home health agency - which is basically clinical treatment and rehabilitation done at home of patients - took off big-time; its expansion necessary.

Twenty-five years later, they are full-blown chief executives, running several companies that employ hundreds of professionals and service a large number of patients. Their home health sites affect US-based communities in positive ways.

Vanura developed a high reputation for their quality service, professional look, and consistency in excellence. Random people began labeling it as the top home health agency in that burgeoning area of California.

Same wavelength, same drive

Last December, US-based Filipino writer Yugel Losorata had the privilege of seeing up close how Alan and Amabel routinely spend their time together.

US-based Filipino writer Yugel Losorata (2nd from left), with the De Leons and few of their home health business employees from the states of Arizona and California. 

They invited him for a road trip from Southern California to their place in Sterling Grove, City of Surprise, Arizona. It’s actually a posh model-house they purchased due to its proximity to Vanura AZ – their home health business expansion outside of California whose work force was set to celebrate their Christmas party.

Losorata went with select executives from DeNu Consulting office (located in Ontario, California) where both Alan and Amabel occupy separate offices. Those rooms, by the way, meant they have separate roles to mind, while essentially together in heart and mind. They’re literally a few steps away in case they need to consult each other.

“Being on the road together makes us go through the businesses and our personal lives truly together. Otherwise, we won’t be seeing each other often,” pointed out Amabel with a cute grin during a quick snack stop.

The trip through the sweeping deserts of California to the arid-yet-breathtaking Arizona was an opportunity for a veteran writer to observe the way the two communicate.

According to the journalist whose byline has appeared in various news outlets, conversations between Alan and Amabel were relatively minimal throughout the six-hour drive from DeNu to their rest house in Arizona. They let the music inside their Mercedes-Benz van capture the gentle mood amid the long stretches of roads, jagged mountains, and caressing sunlight.

The mix of classics and current tunes as playlist magnified their broad perspective over things, with Alan on the steering wheel, Amabel keeping things still, cultivating that mental calm between them. It’s a peaceful breeze warmly interspersed with few exchanges of words deemed necessary.

Time Together

Both moving to the US back in the 90s. They were complete strangers before they met and fell in love. By 2001, they got married, and in the same year they put up Vanura.

“Me and Alan, from the very beginning, plan to be together, to live simply. It doesn’t matter where, as long we were together. If it’s going to pull us apart, it’s not good. I didn’t aim for material things,” she shared.

Being together on the road, at business functions, out-of-town trips with their kids, or friends and staff, is a visual manifestation of that vision. Their regular routine benefits them while overseeing multiple companies. Their decision-making is guided by same-page mentality, with every major move resulting from thorough discussion and deep thought eye-to-eye.

It is big bonus for most couples who are able to spend time together. For them, physical togetherness is a need they can’t live without. Everything they have worked on owes its success to it. It is a bond that goes beyond a signed marriage contract. It is a commitment to be one in mind, body, and spirit.

Small wonder the De Leon couple has become the epitome of a triumphant partnership that now owns more than 10 companies.

House of Surprise

Amid the embracing backdrop of a cold, dry Arizona night, the event at the Sterling Grove Clubhouse saw many Vanura AZ employees and special guests enjoy games prepared by the organizing team from DeNu. Several trophies were given to deserving professionals who have kept the now five-year company running like a well-oiled machine.

Team Vanura Homehealth Services Arizona.

A number of the employees actually got to showcase their singing and dancing skills to the delight of all attendees.

1991 Voice of Asia winner Maribeth Pascua, whose rendition of Denpasar Moon became popular in Southeast Asia, was a featured guest in last December’s event by Vanura Arizona. 

Celebrity singer Maribeth Pascua, family friend, known internationally as the Voice of Asia, and the artist behind the most popular version of the classic Denpasar Moon, treated everyone with her searing rendition of a traditional Christmas song.

Then of course, there were the inspiring speeches, like one from Arizona local and key Vanura AZ figure Don Lee, and from Alan and Amabel themselves.

“We serve one patient a time. We’ll figure it out. David only used one stone and Goliath fell. When you have a team rooting for you, you can do anything,” Amabel assured.

Grateful and Fired-up

Alan emphasized the power of being grateful as key to success. He said in his short-but-sweet speech, "The five-hour drive from California to here got us to reflect what transpired to all those 25 years. It all boils down to gratitude."

He noted, “We set up Vanura when we were starting our family. Our three boys went through the struggle also during times we were away from them. But it's about learning to just be thankful for the time we spent with them and the time that we, as husband and wife, spend together growing the business. The gratitude is still there.”

In the couple's Arizona home, Losorata cherished the privilege of having buffet breakfasts and dinners with them and their staff they collectively dub as firehouse leaders. Firehouse is an operative word in the companies of Alan and Amabel.

The writer from Manila watched with amusement Alan grill steaks and Amabel do the laundry. Their expertise and experience as clinician and nurse, respectively, always come in handy in situations when they have to act like everyday persons.

The relaxing aesthetics of their abode mirrors their care to important details, whether in their businesses and the way they handle the dynamic flow among their teams.

When they hosted an after-party at their house, sweet laughter and wonderful words of wisdom filled their home.

Holding hands

Losorata recalled that on their way back to California with him seated right behind the couple, a remarkable moment crystallized and he felt lucky to have witnessed it. It was signaled by a particular song - that of Christian Bautista’s The Way You Look at Me - coming out of the van's speakers.

Without uttering a word, Alan and Amabel reached out each other’s arms and held tight as the tune went through the suddenly romantic night. They did not let go until the song was over.

The moving ballad made them feel relaxed, and reminded of their partnership that has gone through a lot and actually delivered. The touching gesture was acknowledgment of a marriage born out of their commitment to raise a harmonious family, build home health agencies, and provide help and hope to communities. 

Recognizing deserving employees is a valuable part of company culture that Alan and Amabel encourage. 

The beloved couple with Lemuel Palahang of Vanura AZ. 

 (Photos by Filgraphix)

Security Bank caps 2025 expansion with 377 branches nationwide

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Security Bank Corporation capped off 2025 with the opening of five new branches in December, bringing its nationwide branch network to 377 branches and reinforcing its commitment to making banking more accessible and inclusive across the country.

Security Bank executives and guests at the opening of the Bank’s 375th branch in Cebu-Mahi (From left): Frances Quiamco, AVP and Business Manager of Cebu-Mahi Branch; Atty. Danilo Almendras, City Administrator of Lapu-Lapu City; Peter Chua, President of MEPZ Mixed Gases Corporation; JD Yap, EVP and Business Banking Segment Head; Nelson Villar, President of Concrete Restoration Inc.; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Venus Manigsaca, Owner of Apple One Group (Landlord); Ray Manigsaca, Chairman of Apple One Group (Landlord); Winnie Chua, President of MEPZ Purchasing Management Association; Wee Sing Sy, FVP and Region Head; Lorena Tambis, AVP and Area Channel Manager

The December openings mark a strong finish to a year of sustained expansion, reflecting Security Bank’s continued focus on bringing BetterBanking closer to more Filipinos, supporting households, entrepreneurs, and growing communities nationwide.

In Luzon, the Bank opened new branches in Guagua, Pampanga and Batangas City Highway, strengthening its presence in high-growth corridors serving both residential communities and key transport routes. In Metro Manila, the opening of Caloocan–Camarin enhanced access to banking services in a strategically located and rapidly developing area.

In the Visayas, new branches in Calbayog and Cebu–Mahi further extend the Bank’s reach to communities that support local enterprises, regional trade, and a growing base of individual and SME clients.

“This month’s branch openings are yet another affirmation of our unwavering commitment to customer-centricity. It is a deliberate investment in what truly matters: the needs, convenience, and aspirations of our clients,” said Leslie Cham, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Head at Security Bank.

As its network grows, Security Bank continues to elevate the in-branch experience. Each new location is designed to meet a wide range of customer needs—from everyday transactions to long-term financial planning—while seamlessly integrating with the Bank’s digital channels.

For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.

Globe Opens New Store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrival Section, Elevating Connectivity for Record-Breaking Traveler Volume

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As air travel rebounds strongly, Globe is stepping up to meet inbound demand with the opening of its new store at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 arrival section. Positioned right at the arrivals exit area, the store is designed to give international travelers instant access to mobile connectivity as soon as they land.

The airport processed a historic 52.02 million passengers last year in a report disclosed by NAIA on their website, marking the highest‑ever annual volume. That reflects a surge in travel demand and a recovery beyond pre‑pandemic levels.

With thousands of passengers arriving daily, the new store aims to deliver immediate value and convenience, offering physical SIM cards and eSIM activation, prepaid load top-ups, and bills payment, catering to the diverse needs of international travelers.

To commemorate the store opening, Globe is rolling out special launch promotions from December 15, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Travelers who purchase a Globe Traveler SIM get a free gift such as a portable travel neck pillow and a free Grab voucher.

“Global traveler volume at NAIA has surged to record highs, and we’re making sure every visitor begins their Philippine journey with reliable connectivity,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid. “Our new NAIA store ensures our brand delivers beyond network services. We enable seamless access to community, mobility and information the moment travelers arrive.”

As Globe Prepaid is the preferred mobile partner for inbound tourists, Globe reinforces its role as a catalyst for effortless connectivity and tourism‑ready service.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/traveler-sim.

GCash represents PH at Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, showcases fintech expertise in international arena

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Leading finance super app GCash is bringing its financial technology expertise as the sole Philippine founding partner in the Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, an international network of industry innovators focused on advancing financial health and resilience.

Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro represented GCash during the Mastercard ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit in Malaysia, highlighting the importance of enabling credit access to MSMEs to support their growth.

Represented by GCash lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., its president and CEO, Tony Isidro, is sharing his knowledge on how to further financial inclusion on a larger scale through technology.

This perspective sets the stage for the participation of GCash in the Coalition, which aims to strengthen financial resilience in emerging markets by connecting people to the right tools — harnessing technology for protection and empowering long-term financial habits. Other members of the Coalition include DANA, TrueMoney, MTN Group Fintech, Airtel Africa, MOCO, Axian, Daviplata, and The Center for Financial Inclusion.

“GCash has transformed how millions of Filipinos manage their money—bringing secure, digital financial services into everyday life. Through its lending arm, Fuse Financing Inc., it has democratized lending in the Philippines, making credit fair and more accessible to millions, especially the unbanked and underserved segments, “ Isidro said.

“By joining this coalition, we aim to extend that impact beyond our borders, sharing our mobile-first innovation and insights to help strengthen financial resilience across emerging markets,” he added.

More than account openings

For Isidro, the industry must confront a hard truth: opening an account is not enough to improve financial well-being. Real progress depends on whether people trust financial tools, understand them and use them regularly. Technology is central to building these behaviors. It strengthens security, simplifies transactions and enables users to take control of their financial decisions.

According to Isidro, however, many Filipinos remain outside the formal financial system despite the rapid expansion of digital adoption in the country. This gap is evident in a study by Mastercard showing that 49.8% of adults still do not have a formal financial account. This limits access to savings, credit, and insurance that are key to long-term financial stability.

Fuse Financing addressed this gap by offering credit products that are simple, secure and accessible through the GCash app. This accessibility led to a growth in lending activities, reflecting a shift in behavior as more users integrate borrowing into their daily financial routines. This pattern aligns with Mastercard’s findings that deeper usage of financial tools is closely associated with financial progression.

The Philippines illustrates how fintech platforms can reach communities that traditional banking has not fully served. Mastercard’s analysis also shows that when digital and physical tools complement each other, people are more likely to build consistent financial habits. This reinforces the role of technology as a driver of trust and adoption.

Isidro, as such said, the coalition strengthens the opportunity to bring this approach to more markets.

“We look forward to learning from fellow coalition members whose diverse experiences and best practices can help us further elevate our solutions. Together, we can accelerate progress toward a truly inclusive digital economy,” he said.

As the Coalition moves forward, the experience and expertise of GCash in driving adoption and responsible borrowing will contribute to a broader, regional effort to improve financial health. The goal is to build a digital economy where more people have the tools and confidence to advance financially.

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

IR Impact Awards recognize SM for good reporting practice

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SM Investments Corporation (SM Investments), the parent company of the SM Group, was cited for Best Annual Report at the IR Impact Awards – Southeast Asia, held in December 2025, in recognition of its commitment to high standards of reporting and disclosure.

The award acknowledged SM Investments’ integrated report for its clear articulation of strategy, performance, governance, and long-term value creation for shareholders and other stakeholders.

“This recognition reflects our continued commitment to high standards of transparency, disclosure, and engagement with our shareholders,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments.

The recognition adds to SM Investments’ earlier honors from the same organization, including Best IR Website, among others.

Formerly known as IR Magazine, IR Impact is a London-based business media organization and an independent source of information for the global investor relations community. Established in 1988 under the IR Media Group, IR Impact provides data-driven insights and benchmarking that help shape best practices in investor relations.

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About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

For inquiries, please contact: smic_corpcomm@sminvestments.com

Move with Confidence Para sa Best Life with Home Credit

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A Gen Z’s Journey toward a confident lifestyle through bold steps and responsible borrowing

Every young Filipino dreams of independence, upgrading their lifestyle, and building a future on their own terms. Yet ambition often comes with responsibilities: rent, bills, and daily expenses can all make it difficult to take that first step toward bigger goals.

However, the right support can make all the difference.

For Jake Apayat from Bacolod, a private employee by day and freelancer at night, a single decision at age 21 set him on the path toward his dreams. With flexible financing and responsible borrowing, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, has helped the now 26-year-old Gen Z turn his ambitions into achievable milestones, giving him the confidence to start building the life he aspires to—one smart decision at a time.

The first big step

Jake’s journey toward the life he always wanted began with a simple but meaningful decision—buying an iPhone 11 at 21 years old. At that time, he was on a stage many young adults face working hard, covering rent and monthly bills on his own, and trying to build a stable, independent life.

However, saving enough to buy the phone in full was not possible, so he turned to Home Credit. Through a product loan with flexible payment terms, a quick approval process, and minimal requirements, he found a way to make the purchase fit his budget.

“Kahit mayroon akong trabaho, mayroon din naman akong expenses, tulad ng renta, bayad sa kuryente at tubig, at iba pa. Kaya, I did not have the financial capacity to buy that phone in cash. Pero para sa akin, hindi lang pang-flex ang phone na iyon. Iyon ang proof ng hard work ko, at sometimes, deserve rin natin ng reward,” Jake shared.

(Even if I had a job, I also had expenses like rent, electricity, water, and other bills. That is why I did not have the financial capacity to buy the phone in cash at that time. But for me, it was not just about showing off. It was a symbol of my hard work, and sometimes we deserve a reward.)

When his loan with Home Credit got approved, Jake felt a mix of excitement and worry.

“Isa sa mga pumasok talaga sa isip ko ay ‘Paano ko ba siya babayaran monthly? Baka magkaroon ako ng issue sa monthly payment ko at hindi ko siya kayang mabayaran,’” he recalled.

(One of the things that really crossed my mind was ‘How will I manage the monthly payments? What if I have issues paying on time or cannot afford it?’)

Even with these doubts, Jake committed to being responsible. He paid on time every month, steadily building a solid track record with Home Credit. That discipline became the foundation of his strong relationship with the company and set the stage for the bigger opportunities that eventually came his way.

Watch Jake’s Kwentong HC here

From one move to better opportunities

Jake didn’t expect that a single purchase, combined with his commitment to responsible borrowing, would open doors to greater opportunities. Through the Home Credit App, he later received several cash loan offers worth ₱100,000 each —funds that became stepping stones toward realizing his dreams.

He used the money to renovate his family home and purchase equipment for a joint business he runs with his sister. He also started his own online buy-and-sell sideline, creating additional income streams. Each upgrade and investment brought him closer to the life he had imagined.

Progressing with Confidence

Today, Jake enjoys the rewards of his hard work and smart financial decisions. Home Credit has allowed him to make purchases he once thought were out of reach, while also giving him the flexibility to create additional income streams and enhance his lifestyle.

In his experience, Jake also discovered a valuable lesson for young Filipinos starting out: you don’t need to have everything figured out to take the first step toward your dreams. What truly matters is having a dependable partner to support you along the way.

His story shows how accessible financial solutions can give young Filipinos the confidence to pursue their goals early, turn small decisions into meaningful progress, and gradually build the life they envision.

Watch Jake’s full story here and see how one responsible decision can lead to bigger opportunities. Discover how Home Credit empowers young Filipinos to move with confidence toward the life they want—one smart step at a time.

To know more about the latest updates, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

STEM, Business Students form newest batch of GrabScholars

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Grab Philippines officially welcomed its fourth batch of GrabScholars, awarding full four-year scholarships to a fresh cohort of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Business, and Sustainability students.

Harvey Blaize Ramirez, whose father is a GrabCar driver-partner, is now a proud GrabScholar taking up a Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering at Mapua University

Along with tuition coverage at renowned institutions like Mapua University and the Cebu Institute of Technology University, the scholars also receive a monthly stipend, a brand-new laptop, and other school essentials.

The new cohort — Harvey Blaize Ramirez, Reign Quiñones, Lloeby Xyra Semana, Dainty Jurzhail Balde, Wrench Maxenne Singcol, and Chrislyn Bacalso — brings the program’s total number of existing full college scholars to 23.

Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda emphasized that investing in these students is an investment in the country’s tech capabilities. “The world is moving at breakneck speed, particularly with innovations in tech and AI. To better prepare our country towards important advancements, we need young Filipinos who aspire to be the next shapers of the STEM space,” Roda said. “GrabScholar is about ensuring Filipinos are empowered to be the builders and leaders of tomorrow’s tech landscape.”

The GrabScholar program is a cornerstone of the GrabForGood agenda, the superapp’s social impact initiative aimed at promoting socioeconomic mobility of communities in Southeast Asia.

Children of Grab and MOVE IT partners find a path to college

Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Booey Bonifacio, and MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto personally welcomed the scholars in the awarding ceremony at the Grab HQ in the Philippines

For several of the newest scholars, the scholarship is tied closely to their parents’ daily grind on the road, linking gig and platform work to longer-term aspirations for families in the Grab and MOVE IT ecosystem.

At Mapúa University, 18-year-old Harvey Blaize Ramirez is tackling AI Engineering. His father’s journey — evolving from a GrabFood rider to a GrabCar driver — serves as his blueprint for success. Harvey dreams of one day joining Grab’s engineering team or launching his own tech venture.

Reign Quiñones, an Industrial Engineering freshman at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), is no stranger to the hustle. While her father delivers for GrabFood, Reign balances her studies with freelance layout and editing jobs. A former campus journalist, she aims to become a Process Designer creating apps focused on social impact, such as disaster risk mitigation.

The program also welcomed new scholars from cities in regions outside of Metro Manila. In Cebu, Dainty Jurzhail Balde is pursuing Civil Engineering at the Cebu Institute of Technology University. With her father, a MOVE IT rider, serving as the sole breadwinner for their family of five, Balde is determined to pay it forward. She plans to start a foundation to mentor aspiring engineers from underprivileged backgrounds. Hailing from Davao City is Wrench Maxenne Singcol, a Computer Science student at the University of Mindanao.

GrabScholar’s new batch includes students outside Grab’s partner ecosystem. Lloeby Xyra Semana, who aspires to be a CPA-lawyer, is a freshman Accountancy student at PUP. Before the scholarship, she was supported by her mother, who works as a public school teacher and is the family’s sole breadwinner.

Chrislyn Bacalso is taking Business Administration at Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan. Her father is a person with disability, while her mother — a vegetable vendor—provides for the family. Bacalso is aiming to become the first college graduate in their household.

Going beyond scholarships: one-time bursaries for K–12 learners

Apart from full college scholarships, Grab said GrabScholar also extends one-time bursaries to more than 300 underprivileged elementary and high school students to help cover school-related needs. The financial assistance reaches up to P2,500, typically released through GrabPay as reimbursement for eligible expenses such as books, uniforms, and school supplies.

2GO Forwarding: At the Heart of Customer Trust

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2GO Forwarding enables seamless logistics while creating opportunities for businesses and industries across the Philippines.

2GO, the country’s premier multimodal logistics solutions provider, continues to strengthen its reputation as a reliable local partner of leading international brands and organizations.

2GO Forwarding, the freight forwarding arm of the 2GO Group, operates through a nationwide network that spans 33,000 barangays and delivers scalable logistics for industries such as pharmaceuticals, FMCG, automotive, and events. With access to sea, land, and air transport, the unit provides customers with end-to-end logistics tailored to their operational needs.

Seamless Logistics and Mobility

For restaurant groups with extensive operations across the Visayas and Mindanao, efficient inter-island movement is essential to maintaining stock levels, product freshness, and store stability. Bigby’s Quality Food Corp., a homegrown restaurant group with 26 branches under brands such as Bigby’s Café & Restaurant, Boy Zugba, and The Tuna Bar, has seen significant improvements in its logistics efficiency with 2GO handling its island-to-island deliveries.

Henrik Kelly Yu, CEO of Bigby’s Quality Food Corp., said, “Before, I think the challenges of our shipments were the island-to-island deliveries. But now with 2GO, it’s very convenient. Deliveries to Dumaguete, Bohol, Tacloban, Cebu—it has been very life-changing for our business to have this kind of service.”

Delivering Healthcare with Precision

Pharmaceutical distribution requires efficiency, accuracy, and consistent reliability. For Zuellig Pharma Corporation, the Philippines’ leading distributor of medicines and healthcare products, 2GO Forwarding has become a trusted partner in ensuring life-saving medicines and medical products reach their destinations safely and on time. The partnership has proven vital during peak demand periods, where uninterrupted delivery means uninterrupted access to healthcare.

Paul Sanchez, Director of Zuellig Pharma, said, “When we experienced logistics challenges, 2GO immediately stepped in to ensure our operations remained unhampered and delivery commitments were met. Their professionalism, precision, and ability to manage critical pharmaceutical cargo with utmost care have been instrumental to our mission of safeguarding healthcare access across the country.”

Powering Philippine Sports

Beyond healthcare, 2GO Forwarding also supports the movement of people and equipment for some of the Philippines’ most anticipated international sporting events. As the official logistics partner of IRONMAN Philippines, 2GO provides transport and forwarding solutions that ensure sporting gear, race materials, and participants arrive on time and in full. This capability has made 2GO an integral part of the country’s growing sports tourism industry.

Princess Galura, President and General Manager of Sunrise Events Inc., said, “We are excited to continue our partnership with 2GO, whose end-to-end logistics and travel services help bring our MICE events to life—organized, on time, and seamless. Their reliable support ensures that our equipment arrives where it’s needed and that attendees can travel conveniently across islands. With 2GO, every event delivers a smooth and memorable experience for athletes and spectators alike.”

Operational Excellence

2GO Forwarding’s flexible service offerings have also supported businesses in the agriculture, food manufacturing, and MSME sectors. For the Strawberry-Guyabano Farm and Delibites Concepts Corporation in South Cotabato, 2GO’s transport solutions have helped streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance.

Hannah Mamon, the owner, shared that faster transport cut delivery time from four days to two and that direct store deliveries helped eliminate pilferage. She said, “I was able to save on warehousing, shutting down Davao and Cagayan de Oro… dahil sa streamlining na na-address ni 2GO.” She added that 2GO’s Less than Container Load (LCL) service enabled her to ship small packages with clear and predictable rates. “The efficiency and reliability, na pwede mag twice a week o kahit once a week, kaya mabilis ang turnover ng inventory sa operations.”

Commitment to Partners

2GO Forwarding’s track record across industries highlights its ability to adapt to the unique requirements of every client, from healthcare to sports. The business unit remains focused on delivering solutions that enable organizations to make a meaningful impact on the communities they serve.

Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding said, “We see our role as more than transporting goods—we help businesses expand, communities thrive, and vital services reach the people who need them most. From healthcare and food to sports and MSMEs, we move what matters, ensuring every shipment travels safely and seamlessly across cities and regions. This commitment to enabling growth and enriching lives is at the heart of what we deliver to every partner we serve.”

Know more about our forwarding services, email forwarding@2go.com.ph.

Manulife Philippines Continues to Advance Impact Agenda with Sustainability and Community Efforts

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   ●      In 2025, Manulife Philippines planted more than 10,000 native trees and reached nearly 2,000 new Peso Smart learners through community‑led partnerships.

● Sustained coastal and terrestrial restoration programs, in collaboration with Haribon Foundation, strengthened local ecosystems and supported livelihoods in Luzon island.

●    Manulife’s Season of Giving mobilized colleagues across the country to donate and volunteer for the causes that matter most to them, with the company matching individual colleague donations dollar‑for‑dollar up to CA$1,000.

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading financial services provider Manulife, continues to advance its Impact Agenda, the company’s global commitment to drive better outcomes for its customers, communities, and the planet, with various volunteering and community efforts spread throughout the past year.

To cap 2025’s initiatives, Manulife executives, volunteers, and beneficiaries came together for sustained reforestation efforts, advancing environmental restoration and financial education across communities. Manulife’s annual Season of Giving campaign also empowered its colleagues to support causes meaningful to them through personal donations and volunteerism.

A Year of Environmental and Community Impact

In 2025, Manulife Philippines further advanced its contributions to a healthier planet and community development by planting more than 10,000 native trees covering four hectares of terrestrial and coastal areas. To date, it has planted 31,250 trees across terrestrial and coastal reforestation projects in partnership with Haribon Foundation, local communities, and through the efforts of colleague-volunteers.

 Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers participate in a seedling preparation activity in Rizal province.

Seedling Preparation: 

Through the Seedling Nursery Activity, Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers prepared 1,000 native tree seedlings at a nursery site in Sto. Niño, Rizal in February. The activity was conducted in partnership with Haribon Foundation alongside KAT-MAGAT Tourism and Farmers Association and Sto. Niño Integrated School, supporting reforestation efforts that benefit more than 200 households in the community. Planting these prepared seedlings will commence in 2026, covering eight hectares of forest in the Sierra Madre mountain range.

In 2025, Manulife Philippines expanded its partnership with Haribon Foundation to include planting mangroves in Quezon province.

Mangrove Planting: 

To support coastal restoration efforts that protect shorelines and local fishing communities, Manulife partnered with Haribon Foundation and the community of Alitas Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (AFFA). These mangrove planting efforts will benefit more than 200 households in Infanta, Quezon. The program has established a dedicated mangrove seedling nursery that aims to produce a total of 15,000 seedlings by the end of 2027.

Terrestrial Planting: 

Manulife’s flagship terrestrial restoration site in Real, Quezon, has planted 10 hectares in partnership with Haribon Foundation with the support of the communities in Brgy. Tanuan Farmer’s Association (BATAFA) and Samahan ng Katutubong Dumagat ng Real, Quezon Inc. The restoration efforts benefit nearly 10,000 households in Brgy. Maragondon in Real.

To date, more than 4,900 Filipino learners have completed the Peso Smart program.

Financial Literacy: 

In collaboration with the Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation, Manulife's Peso Smart program reached s new learners across 18 public elementary schools nationwide in 2025. The award-winning financial literacy program equips young Filipinos with essential financial skills such as saving, budgeting, and investing, while connecting financial literacy. To date, more than 4,900 Filipino learners have completed the Peso Smart program, which Manulife Philippines pioneered in 2017.

 Volunteers from Manulife Business Processing Service participate in a volunteering activity.

Bayanihan Festival: 

Manulife Business Processing Services (MBPS), the global shared services center of Manulife, held its inaugural Bayanihan Festival in November 2025. Inspired by the Filipino spirit of community and collaboration, MBPS partnered with Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Waves for Water Philippines, and Reach Out and Feed Philippines for initiatives such as Project Baon to address food insecurity and micronutrient deficiency among Filipino children and humanitarian efforts in disaster-hit Cebu province. There, MBPS mobilized colleague-volunteers and dispensed 2,000 relief kits, 5,000 hot meals, and engaged Manulife’s global colleagues to donate to relief efforts, matching donations dollar-for-dollar.

Volunteers from Manulife IT Delivery Center teach young learners about coding.

Code4Future: 

Manulife IT Delivery Center (MITDC), the fintech arm of Manulife, organized two Code4Future learning sessions in 2025. The sessions, which aim to empower children through coding and creativity, drew 73 young learners and more than 80 MITDC colleague-volunteers. The program aimed to spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving skills while showcasing how technology can fuel creativity.

 Manulife Philippines also unveiled in its newly opened agency office at the Ayala North Exchange the mural called “From Trash to Tree-sure.”

From Trash to Tree-sure:

Manulife Philippines also unveiled in its newly opened agency office at the Ayala North Exchange the mural called “From Trash to Tree-sure,” a unique centerpiece embodying the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices and innovation. The mural was crafted from 18.35 kilos of old Manulife t-shirts from past team events, 9.85 kilos of repurposed tarpaulins, and 56.6 kilos of used beverage cartons. It was built by Manulife financial advisors and colleague-volunteers in collaboration with sustainability-focused interior design firm JunkNot, through its Trash Innovation Exchange for Upcycling Project.

Manulife Global Chief Marketing Officer Karen Leggett joins Manulife Philippines colleague volunteers in a seedling preparation activity.

To close Impact Agenda efforts in 2025, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Karen Leggett, joined colleague-volunteers from Manulife Philippines, Manulife China Bank Life, and Manulife Investments Philippines along with Peso Smart Pinay graduates from Quezon City and Peso Smart teachers from the San Miguel Elementary School in Pasig to prepare 200 native tree seedlings for terrestrial planting in Tanay, Rizal in 2026.

"Taking part in volunteer opportunities like this seedling activity underscores our commitment to supporting communities and championing sustainability through hands-on action," said Leggett. "Each seedling we plant is a tangible promise to restore forests, protect vital ecosystems, and unlock new opportunities for Filipino communities to thrive. By coming together with partners and volunteers, we are not only cultivating a safer, more resilient future, but also inspiring lasting change for generations to come. We stand united in our mission to transform intent into impact—a testament to the power of collective action."

Colleague-Driven Impact

  Season of Giving campaign reflect Manulife Philippines' continued commitment to the communities it serves.

In 2025, Manulife colleagues in the Philippines registered more than 13,000 volunteering hours through their participation in different Impact Agenda initiatives. This was further amplified in Manulife’s global Season of Giving campaign, where colleagues are encouraged to donate to charities and volunteer with community organizations of their choice.

Manulife matches colleagues’ donations dollar-for-dollar up to CA$1,000 in Asia during the Season of Giving, which ran from November to December. This matching mechanism transforms individual generosity into a collective, deep impact across markets. The company also recognizes volunteer hours for any of the colleagues’ chosen initiatives, ensuring that colleagues can support causes of personal significance.

"Filipinos entrust us with their financial futures, and that trust comes with a clear responsibility to invest back in meaningful and lasting ways,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. "The Season of Giving puts this belief into action. We know meaningful change starts with personal commitment, so we take pride in empowering our people to champion the causes that matter most to them.”

Initiatives like Peso Smart, reforestation projects, and Season of Giving campaign reflect Manulife Philippines' continued commitment to the communities it serves. By combining hands-on local engagement and colleague-driven charitable giving, the company continues to demonstrate that lasting impact comes from consistent action and collective effort.

In November, Manulife Financial Asia Limited won the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2025 in the category of Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia for its outstanding commitment to sustainability through its Impact Agenda, environmental stewardship, and strategic integration of sustainable investing across its operations. The recently launched Manulife Longevity Institute underscores this commitment by creating a global platform to drive action that helps people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives by 2030—in Asia and around the world.

To learn more about Impact Agenda and Manulife’s commitment towards building a better business to better the world, visit manulife.com.ph