DTI 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair generates P309.57M in sales

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Proving that trade exhibitions offer far more than simple product exposure, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair generated P309.57 million in total sales.

The impressive figure marks a major milestone for Filipino coconut enterprises following the event held from August 26 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

DTI Sec. Ma. Cristina Roque (4th from left) formally opened the 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair held on September 26 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. The 5-day event generated P309.57M in total sales for the participating cocopreneurs.

This year’s fair brought together 300 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Philippines. The sales performance represents a massive leap from the P96.9 million generated by 213 participating businesses during last year’s event.

Participating “cocopreneurs” showcased a wide variety of value-added products across food and beverage, health and wellness, personal care, home and lifestyle items, craft, and sustainable non-food materials. The strong turnout highlights both an expanding local coconut industry and the growing capacity of domestic businesses to meet diverse consumer and commercial demands.

Held in conjunction with National Coconut Week, the fair demonstrated a collaborative, whole-of-government approach. DTI’s market-development strategies in tandem with programs led by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and partner agencies under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).

As the lead implementing agency, the PCA coordinates targeted initiatives designed to strengthen the coconut sector and raise incomes for local forming communities.

The wider CFIDP ecosystem also supports total industry growth—funding farmer assistance, cooperative training, research, technology adoption, product innovatio and enterprise building.

The event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque alongside key PCA leadership. Highlights of the opening included the release of the CFIDP Coffee Table Book, the launch of the 2022–2025 CFIDP Terminal Report documenting key milestones and beneficiary stories, and the debut of the official CFIDP website to streamline public access to industry resources.

To maximize commercial opportunities, the event featured a dedicated Buyers Lounge. Here, coconut MSMEs met directly with corporate and institutional buyers to pitch product lines, discuss sourcing requirements and secure long-term business partnerships.

Ultimately, the success of the 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair reinforces how research, technology, and market development can align under unified government leadership to create sustainable, high-value economic opportunities for Filipino coconut farmers.

Manulife Philippines Appoints Erica Jurilla Santos as Chief Operations Officer

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Manulife Philippines announced the appointment of Erica Jurilla Santos as Chief Operations Officer, effective 15 September 2026. She will join the Manulife Philippines Executive Committee.

Erica Jurilla Santos

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Santos will lead operations delivery, customer experience, and transformation initiatives to strengthen service excellence across customer and distribution journeys

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As Chief Operations Officer, Santos will lead Manulife Philippines’ operations strategy, with a focus on strengthening service excellence, operational performance, digital adoption, and customer-focused innovation. Her leadership will support the company’s continued transformation and commitment to delivering better experiences for customers and distribution partners. Her appointment reflects Manulife Philippines’ continued focus on building stronger operational capabilities, enhancing customer and distribution experiences, and advancing business transformation in support of its ambition to be the #1 choice for Filipino customers.

“Erica is a highly experienced operations leader with a strong track record in transformation, operational resilience, process efficiency, and talent development,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Her deep understanding of service delivery and customer experience will help us further strengthen our operations, improve how we serve customers and distribution partners, and support our growth ambitions in the Philippines. Erica’s appointment also reinforces our commitment to developing future-ready operations that enable our teams to serve with greater speed, consistency, and care.”

Santos brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across insurance, contact center, and back-office operations, with deep expertise in service delivery, workforce strategy, financial governance, vendor management, customer experience, and operational transformation. Since joining Manulife Business Processing Services in 2022, she has made significant contributions to strengthening operations, most recently leading a 600-FTE organization supporting Manulife’s U.S. insurance business across new business, policy administration, and life and health claims.

“I’m honored to take on this role and to work with the talented teams across Manulife Philippines,” said Erica Jurilla Santos, Chief Operations Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Operations plays a critical role in shaping the customer and advisor experience, and I look forward to helping build stronger, simpler, and more responsive ways of working that deliver meaningful value for our customers and our distribution teams. Together, we have an opportunity to build more agile, customer-centered operations that support Manulife’s growth and help make decisions easier and lives better for more Filipinos.”

Familiar and Fresh: How URC Continues to Surprise Filipinos After 70 Years

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Some favourites never go out of style—and they continue to delight in new ways. For 70 years, Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has been a constant companion in Filipino households through quality and well-loved brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Maxx, Cloud 9, Cream-O, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste, among others. Staying true to its purpose of delighting everyone with good food choices, URC constantly evolves alongside the tastes and lifestyles of consumers.

Today, the company continues to excite generations of consumers by introducing fresh flavours, new formats, and exciting product experiences that prove innovation can come from the brands Filipinos already know and love.

Here’s how some of URC’s popular brands are continuously evolving to excite and delight everyone:

The iconic tasty hexagon snack keeps offering exciting flavours

As a staple in daily snacking moments of Pinoys, Piattos is widely loved for its signature hexagon shape, satisfying crunch, and classic flavors such as Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion, Roadhouse Barbeque, Nacho Pizza, Roast Beef and Spicy Cheese. To excite today’s adventurous palates and satisfy evolving snack cravings, the brand continues to introduce more flavor options—from limited-edition creations like Beef Bulgogi and Truffle Cream, to exciting flavor combinations like its latest Cheddar & Sour Cream variant.

Alongside Piattos, other Jack 'n Jill favorites—including Nova, Mang Juan, and VCut—as well as classics like Chippy and Chiz Curls, continue to roll out exciting new flavor profiles, giving Filipinos even more reasons to look forward to snack time.

From sandwich cookie to full chocolate experience

Cream-O has long been the go-to treat for chocolate lovers, but URC has reimagined the brand to go way beyond the traditional cookie format. To satisfy modern cravings for premium and indulgent textures, the brand has expanded into an entire ecosystem, featuring Cream-O Cake Bar, Cream-O Cakewich, and Cream-O Premium. Its newest is the Cream-O Dark Choco, an indulgent cookie sandwich that offers a rich and bold chocolate experience.

The spirit of variety extends across URC’s biscuit favourites with Dewberry, Presto, and Magic Crackers, continuously adapting their formats to fit every kind of modern snack craving.

Reimagining the chocolate enjoyment with a new crunch

Known for its signature combination of nougat, caramel and peanuts, URC’s Cloud 9 chocolate has been a go-to treat for several chocolate lovers. The brand has been introducing new ways to satisfy sweet cravings by offering products like the new Cloud 9 Crunchies that bring a fun and crispy texture to a familiar favourite.

Alongside Cloud 9, other fun treats like Nips chocolate introduce vibrant flavors and formats, proving that chocolate moments can make any day a little sweeter.

Fruity freshness, now with a chewy twist

Maxx has always been a pocket essential for on-the-go freshness. Recognizing a growing consumer preference for playful, chewy textures, URC expanded its candy lineup with Maxx Chews. This chewy menthol candy comes in a convenient, value-packed three-piece stick that is tailor-made for the fast-paced routines of modern commuters and professionals.

Together with URC’s other candy favourites like XO, Dynamite and Lush, Maxx offers something for every candy craving and every moment that calls for a refreshing treat.

Offering refreshing tea favorites, and flavor innovations

As the pioneer of ready-to-drink green tea in the Philippines, C2 Cool and Clean introduced a refreshing tea experience to Filipinos. Alongside its Classic Green Tea, Apple, and Lemon variants, C2 continues to evolve its product lineup, introducing flavor innovations such as Raspberry, Dalandan and Peach. Its latest flavor, C2 Freeze Melon, brings an innovative twist on fruity tea with a delicious melon flavor and a refreshing coolness that lingers in every sip.

Brewing modern coffee moments, one cup at a time

As one of the country's most chosen beverage brands (based on Kantar's Brand Footprint report), URC’s Great Taste has a history of delivering innovative products - most notably by introducing White Coffee in the Philippines.

URC continues to elevate Pinoy’s daily coffee ritual with the new Great Taste Premium roast, a coffee mix that’s designed to give everyone a delicious afternoon coffee break companion with its Tapang-Sarap blend of dark-roasted robusta coffee, palm sugar and real milk - para Balik Lakas Sigla.

Bigger, bolder flavours for instant happiness

Payless continues to redefine value-for-money meals by giving consumers MORE at a sulit price, through its delicious range of instant noodle variants and bold innovations.

Its newest Payless Chili Garlic Mami offers a flavorful twist on a Filipino comfort food favorite. Made with rich chili oil and real garlic bits, this crave-worthy meal delivers a balanced blend of Anghang-Linamnam that elevates your everyday noodle cravings. Experience the kakaibang Anghang-Sarap na Tumatatak goodness of Payless Chili Garlic, available in Beef and Chicken flavors.

Moving into modern pet care

Beyond making everyday snacking moments more enjoyable for Filipinos, URC also supports joyful moments shared by pet parents and their fur babies. Through its award-winning pet care brand, TopBreed, URC has been supporting fur parents’ journey by offering quality pet care products including dog and cat food, and other pet essentials. This 2026, TopBreed brand started expanding its portfolio from dry dog and cat food to other formats like wet and treats, also TopCare cat litter.

Always something new to discover

For 70 years, URC has grown alongside generations of Filipinos—evolving with changing tastes, lifestyles, and everyday moments. As a lifestyle companion, URC stays true to what it has always stood for: bringing quality, flavor and everyday delight to Filipino homes.

 

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For 70 years, Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has grown into one of the Philippines' leading food and beverage companies, with a portfolio of trusted brands enjoyed by millions of consumers locally and across international markets. Through decades of innovation and a deep understanding of evolving consumer needs, URC has built a lasting legacy of delivering quality products that enrich everyday life. Its iconic brands—including Jack 'n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx Candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee—have become household names, connecting generations of Filipinos through shared moments and the simple joy of great taste. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines), and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

Manulife Philippines Appoints Ganesh Murugesan as Chief Information Officer

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Appointment strengthens technology execution and enterprise transformation capabilities to support sustainable growth, operational transformation, and customer experience

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, today announced the appointment of Ganesh Murugesan as Chief Information Officer. He will be part of the company’s executive committee.

Prior to his appointment, Ganesh served as Head of Delivery for Manulife Philippines and was part of Manulife’s Regional Technology team in Hong Kong for the past eight years. During this time, he has played a key role in strengthening delivery capabilities and leading major transformation programs across the region. With nearly 25 years’ professional experience, Ganesh draws on a strong track record of shaping and delivering technology solutions that support distribution growth, enable operational transformation, and enhance customer experience across insurers in Asia.

“Ganesh brings deep expertise and a strong execution track record that will be critical as we continue to strengthen our technology capabilities and drive transformation across the business,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “His regional experience and leadership will help us deliver more seamless, efficient, and customer-focused solutions, supporting our ambition to be the #1 choice for Filipino customers. He will play an important role in connecting our technology priorities more closely to business outcomes, ensuring we deliver consistent, high-quality experiences at scale.”

“I'm excited to work with colleagues across Manulife Philippines to strengthen execution and technology capabilities that help us deliver better outcomes for our customers, distributors, and colleagues. By investing in our people and transforming our business through AI and innovation, we can improve customer experience, increase speed to market, and accelerate the company's growth ambitions,” said Ganesh Murugesan, Chief Information Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Grab Boosts Ride Safety for Teens with ‘Grab for Family’ Feature

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Grab Philippines is giving Filipino teens greater independence while helping parents stay connected to their journeys with the introduction of Grab for Family. The feature enables teenagers aged 13–17 to book rides independently, while giving parents and guardians real-time visibility into their journeys and added safety controls throughout the trip.

The growing use of Grab Family Accounts among Filipino households points to the increasing role of shared mobility in everyday family life, with sign-ups more than doubling over the past year. Once onboarded, family members take about 70% more rides in their first month – underscoring the importance of shared access in making everyday mobility more convenient and more efficient for everyone under one roof.

With Grab for Family, parents no longer have to choose between giving their teenagers greater freedom and staying informed about their journeys. Once a teen is linked to a Family Account, parents can receive real-time trip updates, follow rides on a live map, communicate with the teen and driver, and access additional safety tools throughout the trip.

“Safety and peace of mind have always been important to how we serve families on Grab. We’re continuing to build on that by making it easier for parents to stay informed about their teens’ journeys, while giving teenagers the support and confidence to move around more independently,” said Grab Philippines Head of Mobility CJ Lacsican.

Keeping parents connected without getting in the way

At the core of Grab for Family is real-time visibility. Through Live Ride Tracking, Trip Monitoring and automated trip notifications, parents can stay informed without having to repeatedly call or message their teens during a ride.

Parents receive updates at key points of the journey, including when a driver is assigned, vehicle details are available, the passenger is picked up, the destination is reached and the trip is completed. A live map also allows parents to follow the ride as it happens.

The monitoring experience is designed to provide added visibility when a journey does not go as expected. Parents can be alerted about unexpected stops or route deviations, while the platform can also check in with the passenger through in-app prompts to help confirm that they are safe.

Built-in safeguards from pickup to drop-off

Beyond visibility, Grab for Family brings together several safety and communication tools designed to support the teen throughout the ride.

Ride PIN provides an additional verification step before a trip begins, requiring the passenger and driver to match a unique in-app code before proceeding. This helps ensure that the teen is getting into the correct vehicle.

Through 3-Way Chat, parents can also join the in-app conversation between the teen and driver. This gives families a shared channel to clarify pickup points, landmarks and other trip details without having to move the conversation to a separate platform.

Grab for Family also includes AudioProtect, which enables encrypted audio recording on both the passenger’s and driver’s devices during a ride. Recordings remain encrypted and cannot be accessed by either party, and are only reviewed by Grab’s safety team when a formal report is submitted.

These tools work alongside Grab’s Safety Center and Emergency Help functions, giving users access to localized assistance and emergency support when needed.

Designed to fit into everyday family routines

Activating Grab for Family can be done within the existing Grab app. Parents can invite a teen using their mobile number or send a unique invitation link. Once the teen accepts the invitation, the parent approves the request and identifies the account as belonging to a teen, activating the relevant safety features.

Once the accounts are linked, parents can also manage shared payment methods and adjust available safety settings based on their household’s needs.

“As a Grab driver-partner and a mother myself, I understand how important it is for parents to feel assured that their children are safe whenever they use ride-hailing services,” said Lisza Buscaino-Redulla, President of the United Transportation Coalition Philippines, Inc. “Many families rely on platforms like Grab for the daily commutes of their teenage children, which is why we welcome the introduction of the Family Account as an important step toward giving parents assurance that their children get to wherever they need to be safely.”

More information on Grab for Family is available through the Grab app and official website.

2gather, 2gether in September Celebrate Market! Market!’s 22 Years of Journeying Through Life with the Community

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This September, make your way to Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) original community hub. Celebrate Market! Market!’s 22 years of keeping people’s lives interconnected with 2gather, 2gether – a month-long series of games, socials, shared experiences and anniversary shopping discounts and promos.

For two decades and two years, Market! Market! has been a comforting constant gathering hub in the ever changing BGC. More than a shopping destination, it is where commuters begin and end their journeys. It is where families eat after errands. It is where communities naturally converge. It is a place for everyday needs, shared experiences, celebrations, and connections.

“It’s where people come together. It is a familiar place, a part of a lot of people’s childhoods, and it is one of their constants, still serving them now in their adult lives. Market! Market! embraces the community’s diversity – everyone feels at home in the mall,” said Market! Market! General Manager Cristina Ticzon-Locsin.

2gather, 2gether at Market! Market!

Anniversary Sale! Sale! Get up to 70% off at participating merchant stores during all weekends of September. Check out 22 deals in participating stores, food and beverage outlets, and services offering. Shoppers with P7,000 worth of receipts from participating merchants will also get a limited edition anniversary jacket.

Create more shared memories with family and friends as a treat from Market! Market! With 2+2gether in Hong Kong. Simply present accumulated receipts from participating merchants worth P1,500 for a chance to win a four-day, three-night all expense paid trip to Hong Kong for four people.

Ready to roll the dice? Join the Gaming Library and Market! Market!’s High Stakes three-day tabletop gaming event on September 4 to 6 to discover new games, connect with fellow gamers or to compete with experienced players. Show your skills at board games, trading card games, and miniature games.

Sign up to the Know It All at the Food Choices Trivia Night on September 11 and enjoy good food and good company.

From September 15 to 20, make your way to The Gift Spot for limited edition 22nd anniversary apparels showcasing the people, connections, and communities that continue to shape Market! Market!

Bring your favorite people to Beyond Brews: Coffee & Matcha Festival from September 25 to 27 at the Activity Center and get a taste of different coffee brands, matcha brands and food brands. Perfect for coffee lovers, matcha enthusiasts, makers, creatives and curious minds.

For more details, visit Market! Market! Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MarketMarket

2GO Strengthens Commitment to Growth and Employee Experience with Relocation to Four E-Com Center

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2GO Group Inc.’s new corporate headquarters situated in FourE-Com Center, Pasay City

2GO Group Inc., the Philippines’ leading shipping and logistics solutions provider, has officially relocated its corporate headquarters to FourE-Com Center within the MOA Complex in Pasay City, marking a strategic milestone that reinforces the company's long-term commitment to operational excellence, employee experience, and sustainable growth.

"This is a deliberate business decision that was driven by a clear vision for where the company is headed," said Will Howell, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of 2GO Group, Inc. "It is anchored on creating a workplace that supports our people, strengthens collaboration, and enables the next phase of 2GO's growth."

2GO’s new headquarters offers a significantly enhanced workplace experience with modern facilities, professionally managed environment, and future-ready infrastructure providing a stronger foundation for the company's evolving operational requirements.

At the heart of the relocation is 2GO's continued investment in its people. Recognizing that the workplace plays a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and organizational culture, the new office has been designed to support greater cross-functional engagement and provide employees with an environment where they can perform at their best.

The move also reflects the company's broader commitment to excellence. As one of the Philippines' leading transportation and logistics providers, 2GO believes its workplace should embody the same standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability that it delivers to customers and partners across the country.

"As we continue to transform the business, we believe our workplace should evolve alongside us," Howell added. "Our new home at FourE-Com is more than a new office—it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our ability to deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders."

The relocation represents another important step in 2GO's journey of continuous improvement, providing an environment that empowers employees, supports innovation, and enables the company to pursue sustainable growth in the years ahead.

Midea champions innovation and industry excellence, earned multiple Quill awards

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Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines, together with members of partner communications agency COMCO Southeast Asia, received the recognition at the 22nd Philippine Quill Awards.

The continued pursuit of innovation and deep collaboration with its nationwide network of stakeholders remain at the heart of Midea’s mission to deliver happiness to every Filipino household through meaningful home appliance solutions.

This commitment was recently recognized at the recent 22nd Philippine Quill Awards, where Midea received three awards for its milestone dealer and installer technician engagement initiatives, namely “Together Future Ready: 2025 AC Specialist Convention” and “Midea Club.”

The leading home appliance brand earned two accolades for its premier dealer engagement initiative, “Together Future Ready: 2025 AC Specialist Convention,” recognized under the Customer Relations and Special and Experiential Events category.

Held on the island of Boracay, the four-day immersive convention gathered 160 key air-conditioning dealers, influencers, and industry opinion leaders from across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The convention highlighted Midea’s market leadership by launching new inverter air conditioning lines, alongside market insights, fellowship nights, and social activities.

Further strengthening its commitment to service excellence, Midea earned an award for “Midea Club: Reinventing Installer and Technician Engagement” under the Internal Communication category.

The program empowers HVAC installers and technicians nationwide through product training, financial rewards, cashback, and skills-building competitions. The initiative was highlighted by the Midea Club Flash Installation ASEAN Tournament 2025, where a Filipino technician dominated the regional grand finals in China as the overall champion.

“We sincerely thank IABC Philippines for honoring our commitment to our partner dealers, installers, and technicians. They have been the backbone of our business, and these recognitions inspire us to continue elevating industry standards, empowering our partners, and ensuring our technological advancements bring lasting value to the industry and Filipino households,” said Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines.

Organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, the Philippine Quill Awards represent the country's highest global standard for strategic and impactful business communication programs. For more information about Midea and its upcoming stories, visit www.midea.com/ph, follow @midea_philippines on Instagram and TikTok @mideaphilippines, subscribe to Midea Philippines Official on YouTube, and like @MideaPhilippines on Facebook

Toshiba elevates “Details Matter” into an award-winning initiative

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Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, a global leader in home appliance innovation, earns two Awards of Excellence at the Philippine Quill Awards 2026 for its “Embodying the Takumi Spirit: Toshiba Lifestyle’s ‘Details Matter’ Campaign” recognized under the Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication and Awards of Excellence for the Special and Experiential Events categories.

Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines representatives celebrate two Awards of Excellence at the Philippine Quill Awards 2026, recognizing the brand’s campaigns across marketing and experiential events, together with its PR and Influencer Marketing agency COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises.

The winning “Embodying the Takumi Spirit: Toshiba Lifestyle’s ‘Details Matter’ Campaign” was created to reintroduce Toshiba Lifestyle in the Philippines and strengthen its position as a partner for quiet luxury and intentional living. Rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Takumi, where precision, dedication, and attention to detail shape the way products and experiences are created, the campaign connected product innovation with a broader cultural and lifestyle narrative. It introduced new product lineups, including Morandi Gray, Nature Pure, and Japandi Suite, bringing together sleek design, thoughtful functionality, and Japanese craftsmanship to create home solutions that go beyond conventional expectations.

“These recognitions are a proud moment for everyone who brought ‘Details Matter’ to life. We wanted to show that craftsmanship is not only about creating beautiful products, but also about the care, passion, and purpose behind every detail. Throughout the campaign, we were able to share that belief with Filipino consumers and, together with our Takumi Masters and partners, celebrate what it means to create a home that feels truly personal,” said Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines.

At the heart of the campaign were the Takumi Masters, each chosen for their expertise across premium fields such as fine dining, design, fashion, music, and contemporary living. Personalities such as Two Michelin Star Chef Josh Boutwood, world-renowned Fashion Designer Francis Libiran, award-winning Musical Director Gerard Salonga, Author and Journalist Stephanie Zubiri, globally recognized Cuisine Chef and Restaurateur JP Anglo, Acclaimed Designer Amina Aranaz-Alunan, and Creative Entrepreneur Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez were among the respected leaders who shared their personal stories and perspectives on craftsmanship, showing how precision, dedication, and attention to detail shape their work.

The campaign also partnered with niche influencers to translate the “Details Matter” philosophy into experiential and digital experiences. Key influencers included Michelin Star Chef Aaron Isip, Creative Director Vince Uy, Moss Design Founder Cyndi Fernandez, Personal Mastery Coach Bianca Bradner, BLK Cosmetics CEO Jacqe Gutierrez, SoFa Design Institute Co-Founder Loralee Soong, VMAN Southeast Asia Fashion Editor Rex Atienza, and Lifestyle Journalist Marie Lozano.

The campaign's recognition at the Philippine Quill Awards follows its earlier win at the Marketing-Interactive PR Awards 2026 in Singapore, where it received a Silver Award in the Best PR Campaign: Electronics & Tech category. It was also named a finalist for Best Use of Micro/Niche Influencers, adding to the campaign’s recognition for its approach to storytelling, partnerships, and audience engagement.

Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines’ latest recognition reflects a broader shift in how the brand communicates its value: moving beyond the functional benefits of home appliances to build an emotional and lifestyle-led narrative around craftsmanship.

By connecting its products with Filipino voices, design, culinary arts, fashion, music, and experiential storytelling, “Details Matter” turns the Takumi philosophy into a platform that gives consumers a closer look at the care and intention behind the brand and the role those details can play in creating a home that feels truly personal.

For more information about Toshiba's Details Matter campaign and upcoming stories, visit https://www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph, follow @toshiba_lifestyle_philippines on Instagram and @toshibalifestyleph on TikTok, subscribe to Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines on YouTube, and like @ToshibaLifestylePhilippines on Facebook.

PascualLab Banners 80th Anniversary with the Launch of Alevia-B and My Colla C

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Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab), one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines¹ continues to expand its health and wellness portfolio on its 80th year in the industry with the launch of two new health and wellness products plus new campaigns for its flagship brands. 

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One of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines forays into the mobility market

 and expands its beauty & personal care portfolio 

as it celebrates 8 decades in the industry 

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As it celebrates 80 years of delivering quality, family-friendly health and wellness products to Filipino families since 1946, PascualLab proudly enters the mobility market. It also launches its newest product under one of its core categories, food supplementation. 

ALEVIA B For Triple Action Relief for Muscle, Joint or Nerve-related Mild to Moderate Pain 

Consistent with its history of purposeful health solutions, PascualLab now enters the mobility market with one of its newest offerings Alevia-B that combines Paracetamol with Vitamins B1 (Thiamine), B6 (Pyridoxine), & B12 (Cyanocobalamin) in one convenient tablet to help relieve mild to moderate pain while supporting normal nerve function. ²,³ 

ALEVIA B features a triple-action formula that addresses different types of pain in a single formulation. 

• an analgesic component (Paracetamol) with neurotropic vitamins (B1, B6, B12), providing a complementary, mechanism-based approach to support relief across multiple pain components. ⁴ ,⁵  Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is a widely used first-line non-opioid analgesic for mild to moderate pain². 

• Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 are essential for normal nervous system function and contribute to neuronal metabolism and myelin maintenance. ³,⁵ 

MY COLLA C Premium Marine Collagen + Vitamin C 

For people approaching their mid-30s and 40s, the time when one needs to focus on the things that truly matter; look ahead into the future; and make choices that prepare them for the next chapter, PascualLab unveils MyColla C. At this time when certain realities appear – aging; skin rebuild; and need for nourishment from within – MyColla C offers a pairing that makes perfect sense: 

• Premium Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen – building blocks that help support skin health: elasticity, hydration, and firmness 

• Vitamin C - essential in producing and maintaining collagen Collagen and Vitamin C work together to help support normal collagen formation and structure to achieve skin nourishment and radiance from within when paired with proper diet and exercise. 

My Colla C comes in different formats for varying lifestyles so users can choose what works: easy-to drink Strawberry Milk powdered drink in sachets; versatile and easy-to- mix with favorite drinks Unflavored sachets; and compact and easy Chewable tablets for those always on the move. Begin your brightest chapter with MyColla C, #MyPremiumCollagenChoice at Mercury Drug, Southstar Drug, Rose Pharmacy, St. Joseph Drugstore, and Watsons. 

GALING THAT KEEPS GOING 

This year, flagship brand Ascorbic Acid (Poten-Cee) Vitamin C also launched its #CeeGe Lang campaign while its no. 1 Lagundi brand Ascof Forte also launched its campaign on natural cough relief for various cough (not caused by bacterial infection). Meanwhile top psyllium fiber brand C-Lium Fibre unveiled its #PowerTheSlay campaign earlier this year to get Filipinos going and not be weighed down by irregular bowel movement while Poten-Cee + C highlights the benefits of bovine and marine collagen in one campaign: My Glow To Choice. To celebrate its 80th-anniversary, PascualLab also gifted customers with Php 80 Mercury Drug GCs for every accumulated purchase of PascualLab products worth Php 400. More offerings are also in the pipeline. 

80 YEARS of PASCUALLAB 

Launched in 1946 by founders Isosceles and Leonora Pascual to address the post-war needs of their fellowmen, PascualLab has since been continuously evolving to help address the health needs of Filipinos while keeping quality and care front and center. Now on its 80th, the company behind other product innovations such as OraCare Mouthrinse, PelarGo, and Glutaphos, looks forward with a theme that best captures its foundation, its purpose, and the Filipino excellence that factors in all these: #GalingThatKeepsGoing 

For more information, follow us at linked tree. 

Sources: 

1. IQVIA CHAP MAT Q1 2026 

2. Freo U, Ruocco C, Valerio A, Scagnol I, Nisoli E. Paracetamol: A review of guideline recommendations. J Clin Med. 2021;10(15):3420. 

3. Ang CD, Alviar MJM, Dans AL, Bautista-Velez GGP, Villaruz-Sulit MVC, Tan JJ, et al. Vitamin B for treating peripheral neuropathy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;(3):CD004573.  

4. Alorfi NM. Pharmacological methods of pain management: Narrative review of medication used. Int J Gen Med. 2023;16:3247–3256.  

5. Calderón-Ospina CA, Nava-Mesa MO. B vitamins in the nervous system: current knowledge of the biochemical modes of action and synergies of thiamine, pyridoxine, and cobalamin. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2020;26(1):5–13.

Canon Philippines Expands imageFORCE Line-up, Empowering Enterprises and SMEs to "Make Business Move"

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New imageFORCE models bring AI-assisted maintenance and stronger device and network security to businesses of all sizes

Canon today announced the launch of four new imageFORCE multifunction device (MFD) series, imageFORCE C3100, C3026, 4100 and 4000, completing its imageFORCE lineup for businesses of all sizes.

Designed for today's evolving workplaces, the new models bring enterprise-level printing, scanning and document management capabilities to more organizations, from large enterprises to small and medium-sized businesses. Built around four key strengths: Security, Reliability, Sustainability and Connectivity, the imageFORCE series helps businesses work smarter, protect critical information and keep operations running smoothly.

"The latest imageFORCE models are designed to simplify workflows while providing the performance and protection businesses need to thrive," said Rafael Pleno, Director of Business Imaging Solutions, Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc.

Key features of the new imageFORCE series include:

● Early issue detection through AI-assisted maintenance, reducing downtime and keeping operations running efficiently.

● Sharp, consistent document quality powered by Canon's D² Exposure Technology.

● Advanced protection for devices, networks and sensitive business information.

● Easier collaboration through secure printing, scanning and document access across cloud platforms for hybrid workplaces.

● Lower environmental impact with up to 30% recycled plastics and energy-saving technologies.

The launch further strengthens Canon's leadership in business imaging. Canon was recently recognized by Keypoint Intelligence with the BLI 2026 A3 Line of the Year Award for the 13th consecutive year, recognizing the outstanding performance and ease of use of its A3 multifunction device portfolio.

With the new imageFORCE series, Canon continues to help businesses make business move. For more information, visit the Canon Philippines website.

Grab Unlocks More Savings for Users With GrabCoins Across Rides, Deliveries and Payment

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Grab Philippines is giving users more ways to save by expanding how they can earn and redeem GrabCoins across everyday rides, food orders, grocery purchases, and cashless payments.

Users can earn GrabCoins through eligible GrabCar bookings, GrabFood and GrabMart orders, GrabPay transactions, and selected in-app activities, then redeem them for vouchers or discounts on eligible rides, deliveries, grocery purchases, and in-store payments.

Earn more GrabCoins with Grab

All Grab users can earn GrabCoins by completing eligible transactions and participating in in-app activities. These include making an Advanced Booking or Group Ride, hosting a GrabFood group order, ordering during special periods, and shopping from participating grocery and pharmacy categories on GrabMart.

GrabUnlimited (GU) members also receive enhanced GrabCoins on eligible cashless Grab transactions, earning 6 GrabCoins for every ₱100 spent using GrabPay and 3 GrabCoins for every ₱100 spent using other cashless payment methods.

GrabCoins can be used across Grab’s everyday services, including GrabCar, GrabFood, and GrabMart.

Earn 2× GrabCoins during Double Coins Days

Grab is also introducing Double Coins Days, a monthly promotion available to all users from the 23rd to the 25th of each month. During this period, users can earn 2× GrabCoins on selected transactions, with participating offers available on the GrabCoins homepage.

Use GrabCoins across Grab

Once earned, GrabCoins can be redeemed for vouchers from the GrabCoins catalogue or applied directly to eligible GrabCar, GrabFood and GrabMart transactions through the GrabCoins toggle feature. Users can also use GrabCoins for in-store QR Ph purchases when paying with GrabPay. GrabCoins remain valid for six months from the date they are earned.

Users can use GrabCoins when paying via GrabPay QR.

Users can check their GrabCoins balance and browse available rewards anytime through the Grab app.

2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair to showcase the modern Philippine coconut industry

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The Philippine coconut industry takes center stage at the 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair, which will bring together approximately 300 coconut micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country from August 26 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

More than a marketplace for traditional coconut products, the five-day fair will showcase how Filipino entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers, government agencies, and industry partners are transforming one of the country's most important agricultural resources into innovative, sustainable, and increasingly diverse products and business opportunities.

The fair will bring greater visibility to initiatives supporting the development of the coconut industry and promote closer collaboration among government agencies and industry stakeholders.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry's Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (DTI-BMDPO), the 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair will feature 300 coconut MSMEs offering food and non-food products from different regions of the country.

From familiar coconut-based food products to new applications in health and wellness, personal care, home and lifestyle, the exhibition will demonstrate how enterprises are moving further into value-added production, product innovation, improved packaging, and new markets.

The fair also brings together implementing agencies of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), led by the Philippine Coconut Authority, to highlight programs, services, technologies, research outputs, and accomplishments supporting coconut farmers and other industry stakeholders.

CFIDP implementing agencies will maintain information desks throughout the event, providing visitors and beneficiaries with opportunities to learn about government programs and engage directly with the agencies involved in coconut industry development.

Special features will offer visitors different ways to discover the versatility and potential of the Philippine coconut industry. The CocoBar Café will showcase innovative coconut-based food and beverages, while the CFIDP Selling and Showcase Area and Product Pavilions will feature diverse, value-added coconut products from participating MSMEs. The CFIDP Pavilion and CFIDP Implementing Agencies area will highlight government programs, services, and support for farmers, MSMEs, and other industry stakeholders, demonstrating the many opportunities across the coconut value chain.

Four days of business talks and cooking demonstrations will complement the exhibition, bringing industry knowledge, entrepreneurship, product applications, and market trends to the fair stage.

Market development will also be a key part of the event. Through Business Connect, participating cocopreneurs will have opportunities to meet institutional buyers and prospective market partners in targeted business-matching sessions designed to turn product exposure into potential orders and longer-term commercial relationships.

The 2026 edition builds on last year's performance. The 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair generated Php96.9 million in total sales for 213 participating cocopreneurs. This year, participation expands to 300 coconut MSMEs, giving more enterprises access to consumers, buyers, market information, and potential business partners.

For visitors, the fair is a chance to see, taste, and discover just how far the Philippine coconut industry has come. From innovative products and new technologies to the enterprises and communities behind them, the 2026 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair brings the industry’s possibilities to life and invites the public to be part of its continuing growth.

2GO Brings Cebu Business Community Together to Strengthen Connectivity for Tourism and Trade

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CEBU CITY, Philippines — 2GO, the country’s leading integrated transportation and logistics provider, gathered members of the Cebu business community, industry experts, and policymakers for a strategic forum dedicated to leveraging stronger connectivity that can sustain the region’s momentum across trade, tourism, and economic growth.

(From left) Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions; Ethel Concepcion, Head of 2GO Corporate Marketing and Communications; Assistant Regional Director Evelyn Nacario-Castro of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development; Mr. Felix Taguiam, Regional Governor for Central Visayas of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; President Regan Rex King of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding; and Francis Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel

In partnership with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and in coordination with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Region VII, 2GO hosted a dialogue with key regional stakeholders to discuss Central Visayas’ economic outlook and the vital role of modern supply chain networks in linking businesses to markets and travelers to key destinations.

“We want to hear your pain points and identify your areas of growth so we can co-create solutions together,” said 2GO Marketing Business Unit Head Ethel Concepcion, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustained dialogue and collaborations that enable long-term progress for regional trade and tourism sectors.

“When connectivity improves, businesses can move products faster and more efficiently. Tourism destinations become more accessible, supply chains build resilience, and new markets open,” said CCCI President Regan Rex King. “A stronger Cebu requires stronger connections, and those links begin with meaningful cross-sector alignment.”

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of 2GO and CCCI to foster a holistic economic framework. Through its expansive multimodal network, 2GO bridges trade routes across the Philippines, while collaborating with local organizations to unlock regional opportunities.

Highlighting the region's trajectory, DEPDev Region VII Assistant Regional Director Evelyn Nacario-Castro presented an outlook emphasizing Central Visayas' transition toward a more diversified and interconnected economy. Ranked as the country's fourth-largest regional economy in 2025, Central Visayas is advancing toward modernized transit and freight infrastructure, backed by 90 strategic high-impact projects (SHIPs) scheduled in 2027.

The forum held an executive panel titled “Strengthening Connectivity for Tourism, Trade, and Regional Growth,” featuring insights from King alongside 2GO leaders Francis John Chua (Travel), Faye Allonzo (Forwarding), and Sharon Musngi-Ngo (Sea Solutions).

With logistics playing a pivotal role in accelerating regional development, 2GO reaffirmed its commitment to deepening ties with commercial enterprises, government bodies, and trade groups to build reliable connections across Central Visayas.