Hardworking moms of Sevilla Court, La Union, enjoyed a day of fun and fresh laundry experiences at TCL and Robinsons Appliances’ Labapalooza.
Washing clothes just got a lot easier and smarter! The tedious chore of laundry has transformed into an engaging community event with the launch of Labapalooza, held recently at Barangay Sevilla, San Fernando, La Union. TCL, the Philippines’ No. 1 Panel TV brand and a global leader in TVs and Air Conditioners, has teamed up with Robinsons Appliance, the one-stop destination for top-quality products. Together, they launched this community initiative to bring the power of TCL washing machines directly to residents, providing free laundry services and demonstrating superior cleaning performance.
“Labapalooza is a community event that shows how TCL washing machines can transform the everyday chore of laundry. With Robinsons Appliance as our partner, we are giving residents the chance to experience firsthand the speed, efficiency, and reliability of TCL washing machines, proving that powerful technology can make life easier, one load at a time,” Eric Li, Senior Product Manager of Washing Machine and Refrigerator, TCL Philippines, said.
The event was filled with fresh clothes, happy smiles, and effortless washing, thanks to the power of TCL washing machines. From Washer & Dryer Combo, to Front Load and Inverter Top Loading Washers, TCL’s advanced technology delivers deeper cleaning, faster drying, and energy-efficient performance, making laundry easier and more enjoyable for the participants.
“The overwhelming positive feedback for Labapalooza validates our vision for this community initiative. We are committed to rolling this event out across various communities, allowing us to serve people by handling their laundry free of charge while giving them a firsthand look at the superior performance of our partner, TCL washing machine,” Donna May G. San Luis, Marketing Manager, Robinson’s Appliances, excitedly shared.
TCL Super Drum C682 Transforms Community Laundry Experience
Through Labapalooza, TCL brings communities together while proving that even everyday chores like laundry can be made effortless and enjoyable.
The activity also became an exciting launchpad for the TCL Super Drum C682. Attendees at Laba Palooza were given a special opportunity to try out this innovative new washing machine and experience firsthand how its smart technology delivers superior, high-quality cleaning.
The TCL Super Drum C682 is engineered to deliver the smartest, healthiest, and most reliable laundry experience. Its extra-large drum, the largest in the industry, makes handling massive loads effortless, allowing more clothes to be washed efficiently in a single cycle.
Beyond size, the C682 integrates advanced technology for superior results like Intelligent Care features like automatic stain removal and precise dosing to maximize cleanliness while actively protecting the quality and lifespan of your fabrics.
For total convenience, achieve a cleaner, fresher, healthier wash every time with WiFi control, a powerful steam-cleaning function, and advanced sensors that automatically manage the entire cycle.
At Labapalooza, the participants did not break a sweat over their laundry piles.
Meet the TCL Super Drum C682 engineered to deliver the smartest, healthiest, and most reliable laundry experience
The event highlighted the efficiency and innovation of TCL washing machines, delivering fresh clothes and a seamless laundry experience for all participants.
Everyone happily took turns doing their wash, and thanks to the efficiency of the TCL washing machines, they even had plenty of extra time left over to socialize and bond as a community.
“Our sincere appreciation goes out to the dedicated teams from TCL and Robinsons Appliances. Thank you for your efforts in making Labapalooza such a successful and enjoyable event that celebrated and uplifted our hardworking mothers!” Andre Albert Estoesta, Barangay Treasurer of Sevilla Court, La Union, enthused.
Check out TCL Philippines’ Facebook and Instagram for more updates.
The holiday season is a time for giving, sharing, and showing love — and for millions of Filipinos, that love is often sent through a padala. To help you send malasakit (care) to your loved ones wherever they are in the Philippines, Palawan Group of Companies’ Palawan Express Pera Padala is made even more affordable with lower domestic remittance fees.
From October 1 to December 31, 2025, Palawan Express Pera Padal sukis can enjoy a 1% service fee on every domestic remittance send-out transaction. That means you only pay PhP 1 for every PhP 100 sent! For transactions of Php 20,001 or more, the regular service fee will apply. Customers who use PalawanPay can also enjoy a 1% fee when remitting to any Palawan branch via the app!
Whether it is for noche buena (Christmas Eve meal), aguinaldo (Christmas gift), or a simple, “thinking of you” gift, Palawan Express Pera Padala ensures that your money goes further – helping bridge the gift between you and the people you hold dearest! For us at Palawan Group, every padala is more than just money – it is a tangible reminder that love surpasses distance.
Palawan Group Chief Executive Officer Karlo M. Castro remarked, “Palawan Group is a proud 100% Pinoy company. We are run by Filipinos to serve fellow Filipinos, and deeply ingrained in our culture is a padala being more than just money — it’s a message of love, care, and connection. Through our Mas pinababang fees promo, we want to make it easier for families to send love this Christmas season, no matter the distance. Palawan Express Pera Padala has always been part of the Filipino family’s story, and this is our way of giving back — by helping them stay close even when they are physically far apart.”
Behind Every Padala, a Story of Love
Across thousands of Palawan Express Pera Padala branches and outlets across the Philippines, each padala carries out a common theme: love and sacrifice.
There’s a mother in Manila who sends her 13th-month pay to her parents in Cagayan so they can stock up the fridge as the grandchildren flock in for Christmas. We have heard of a son working in Cebu who sends a little extra to his siblings in General Santos City for their new shirts and slippers. There is also a grandmother in Bicol who uses padala service to send money for her grandchildren’s toys.
“These seemingly small but powerful acts of love and giving are what inspire us to keep doing what we do best – to become the bridge of malasakit among Filipino families, to remain mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos-balungos (affordable, fast, and hassle-free),” said Chief Marketing Officer Bernard Kaibigan.
The peak time for sending pagmamahal at malasakit (love and care) is right here! With Palawan Express Pera Padala and PalawanPay, let remittance carry not just money but a piece of your heart this Christmas. Together, let us make every padala a reminder to your family that distance will never stop you from being part of their holidays, laughter, and every salu-salo shared around the table.
TCL, the Philippines’ No. 1 Panel TV brand and a global leader in TVs and Air Conditioners, joined PHILCONSTRUCT 2025, the premier construction trade show in the Philippines, which simultaneously happened at the SMX Convention Mall of Asia and the World Trade Center, Pasay City, from November 6-9, 2025. As a leader in innovative home and commercial solutions, TCL highlighted its advanced commercial AC lineup designed for energy efficiency, comfort, and modern living.
The four-day PHILCONSTRUCT brought together top builders, engineers, architects, and innovators shaping the construction industry. Organized by the Philippine Constructors Association Inc. (PCA) in its 80th year, the event featured HVAC/R Philippines, the country’s leading platform for advanced heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems, highlighting the latest energy-efficient and climate-responsive innovations.
“With the direction of TCL AC to expand in the commercial segment, the Philconstruct exhibit served as the best venue to showcase our products while expanding our market reach and tapping new channels such as consultants, contractors, and developers attending the event,” Bert Cheung, Deputy Director of Air Solutions and B2B Business, TCL Philippines said.
TCL Advanced AC Lineup at PHILCONSTRUCT
TCL being a market leader in the Residential AC segment, is expanding its reach to the commercial market through its wide range of Light Commercial AC lineup and VRF products. Highlighting the T-AI Full DC Inverter for exceptional energy saving features and the prowess of our VRF products that could cater to a variety of applications.
PHILCONSTRUCT visitors got to view and experience the full line up of AC products from Residential to VRF. TCL representatives were also present at the venue to explain the functions and features of each product.
“TCL is actively broadening its reach into the commercial market, spearheaded by the TMV6 Intelligent VRF and its Full DC Inverter Central Air Conditioning System. We also showcased the Free Match Multi-Split System, providing customizable combinations to meet the flexibility demands of various projects. Our residential leadership continues with the FreshIN P7 series, a flagship line that ensures superior Indoor Air Quality by pulling in fresh external air to enhance the room’s oxygen level,” shared by Vincent Tobias, Assistant Product Manager of Air Conditioner, TCL Philippines.
The TCL TMV6 VRF System is engineered for large-scale application, boasting a maximum system capacity of 144 HP, allowing a single system to efficiently cool massive spaces. Its superior refrigerant piping length of 1,100 meters provides unmatched design flexibility for positioning indoor units across various locations. With a wide array of indoor units available, the system can serve virtually any room size.
This design saves clients substantial upfront costs on both materials and installation. Furthermore, operational expenses are significantly reduced thanks to its high Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV) of 10, ensuring peak energy efficiency, low consumption, and reliable operation via multiple built-in protection functions.
Likewise, there are new inverter technologies, energy-efficient systems and smart features that were introduced during the exhibit. “TCL pioneers the application of Artificial Intelligence to Air Conditioning systems through our T-AI Inverter technology. With this, we further enhance the energy efficiency of our units, reaching up to 80% savings as compared to a non inverter unit. Which is also observed on our EER labels as the highest in the market. TCL is also the first in the market to launch the offline voice command, giving our consumers more options on how to control their Air Conditioning units,” Vincent continued.
Designed specifically for the Philippines, TCL AC units prioritize the consumer’s budget amidst high electricity and rising costs. Our commitment is to deliver the best performance at the most consumer-friendly price, a value achieved by our Product Development team’s exceptional diligence in sourcing ideal, high-quality components.
Moreover, the TCL AC team offers expert, end-to-end support for our industry partners. Their dedication starts with the developer’s idea conception, extends through the design phase with the architectural firm, continues during installation by the contractors, and concludes with system start-up and turnover to the end-user. This comprehensive approach is designed to provide maximum convenience and the highest level of assistance to our valued partners.
“Committed to the Philippine market, TCL continuously improves its product offerings to ensure a perfect fit. Our goal is to provide versatile solutions across various sectors—from residential to industrial, including specialized demands like those of Green Buildings for superior efficiency and integrated fresh air features. This broad focus guarantees we can meet the unique requirements of any project or firm,” Tobias added.
Check out the highlights of TCL Philippines’ participation at the recent PHILCONSTRUCT 2025 on Facebook and Instagram.
Managers from across the Palawan Group of Companies gathered at the Leadership Conference to reflect, learn, and strengthen their commitment to serving millions of “Sukis” nationwide.
At the Palawan Group of Companies, leadership is more than a corporate title — it is a responsibility that directly shapes the experience of millions of “Sukis” who rely on the brand’s services daily, from the busiest city centers to the most remote barrios.
This belief took center stage at the Palawan Group of Companies’ Leadership Conference held last September 26 at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan. The gathering brought together over 200 executives from across the country, including area managers and corporate office leaders for a day of reflection, learning, and renewed commitment to service.
In his opening remarks, Chief Operations Officer Bobbit M. Castro reminded participants of the company’s forward-looking mission as it marks its 40th year. “Growth doesn’t pause. Excellence doesn’t settle. Now, as we celebrate four decades of serbisyong Palawan, we’re not just looking back with pride — we are preparing for something higher. Something greater.
Something more meaningful than everything we have achieved thus far.”
Palawan Group executives (from left to right): Korina Castro-Fernando, Chief Human Resources Officer; Lilian Castro-Selda, Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer; Karlo M. Castro, Chief Executive Officer and President; Bobby L. Castro, Founder and Chairman; Angelita M. Castro, Co-founder and Deputy Chairman; Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Chief Business Development Officer; and Roberto Ben “Bobit” Castro, Chief Operations Officer—united in purpose and guiding the organization to new heights.
President and CEO Karlo M. Castro followed with a powerful message on the weight of leadership: “Not all heroes wear capes. Often, they wear the badge of leadership and carry the responsibility of guiding others toward excellence.”
Chief Human Resources Officer Korina Castro-Fernando, meanwhile, officially launched the Palawan Group Leadership Development Program. She underscored the company’s commitment to continuously invest in the development of its people – the heartbeat of the organization.
Val Santos, Group HR Head, explained that the Palawan Group Leadership Program is anchored on the newly introduced Leadership and Core Competency Profile. Together, these serve as a powerful framework to guide our leaders in developing the right mindset, heartset, and skillset needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing business environment. She emphasized: “This dual launch is more than just a milestone — it is a strategic enabler of the organization’s growth.”
Renowned speaker Francis Kong inspired Palawan Group managers to lead with purpose, urging them to turn adaptability and innovation into daily habits that drive meaningful impact.
The event also featured renowned inspirational speaker Francis Kong, who spoke on purposeful leadership in times of change. He challenged Palawan managers to embrace adaptability and creativity as daily practices: “In times of rapid change, leaders must embrace agility and innovation—not as buzzwords, but as daily disciplines. The ability to adapt quickly while finding better ways to serve is what will separate good leaders from great ones.”
To share best practices on elevating customer experience across industries, a fireside chat was held featuring Rami Chahwan, President and Country CEO of Pickup Coffee, as well as John Velasco, COO of Mr. DIY, Growth Advisor of Angkas, and Executive Director of Creador.
With the battlecry “Onward, Upward, Together,” the conference likened leadership to climbing a summit — a journey of resilience, teamwork, and shared purpose. For Palawan, the summit remains clear: to make reliable and affordable financial services accessible to every Filipino.
Palawan Group leaders united for a powerful group photo symbolizing their shared journey of resilience, teamwork, and commitment to making financial services accessible to every Filipino.
More than a conference, the gathering was a reaffirmation of Palawan Group’s philosophy that leadership is a continuous journey — one that thrives on collaboration, growth, and malasakit for both people and communities.
As Palawan Group celebrates four decades of service, its leaders say the vision is set firmly on the next 40 years and beyond: investing in people, strengthening leadership, and ensuring that at every step forward, the Suki remains at the heart of what they do.
At the Palawan Group of Companies, leadership is more than a corporate title — it is a responsibility that directly shapes the experience of millions of “Sukis” who rely on the brand’s services daily, from the busiest city centers to the most remote barrios.
This belief took center stage at the Palawan Group of Companies’ Leadership Conference held last September 26 at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan. The gathering brought together over 200 executives from across the country, including area managers and corporate office leaders for a day of reflection, learning, and renewed commitment to service.
In his opening remarks, Chief Operations Officer Bobbit M. Castro reminded participants of the company’s forward-looking mission as it marks its 40th year. “Growth doesn’t pause. Excellence doesn’t settle. Now, as we celebrate four decades of serbisyong Palawan, we’re not just looking back with pride — we are preparing for something higher. Something greater.
Something more meaningful than everything we have achieved thus far.”
Palawan Group executives (from left to right): Korina Castro-Fernando, Chief Human Resources Officer; Lilian Castro-Selda, Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer; Karlo M. Castro, Chief Executive Officer and President; Bobby L. Castro, Founder and Chairman; Angelita M. Castro, Co-founder and Deputy Chairman; Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Chief Business Development Officer; and Roberto Ben “Bobit” Castro, Chief Operations Officer—united in purpose and guiding the organization to new heights.
President and CEO Karlo M. Castro followed with a powerful message on the weight of leadership: “Not all heroes wear capes. Often, they wear the badge of leadership and carry the responsibility of guiding others toward excellence.”
Chief Human Resources Officer Korina Castro-Fernando, meanwhile, officially launched the Palawan Group Leadership Development Program. She underscored the company’s commitment to continuously invest in the development of its people – the heartbeat of the organization.
Val Santos, Group HR Head, explained that the Palawan Group Leadership Program is anchored on the newly introduced Leadership and Core Competency Profile. Together, these serve as a powerful framework to guide our leaders in developing the right mindset, heartset, and skillset needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing business environment. She emphasized: “This dual launch is more than just a milestone — it is a strategic enabler of the organization’s growth.”
Renowned speaker Francis Kong inspired Palawan Group managers to lead with purpose, urging them to turn adaptability and innovation into daily habits that drive meaningful impact.
The event also featured renowned inspirational speaker Francis Kong, who spoke on purposeful leadership in times of change. He challenged Palawan managers to embrace adaptability and creativity as daily practices: “In times of rapid change, leaders must embrace agility and innovation—not as buzzwords, but as daily disciplines. The ability to adapt quickly while finding better ways to serve is what will separate good leaders from great ones.”
To share best practices on elevating customer experience across industries, a fireside chat was held featuring Rami Chahwan, President and Country CEO of Pickup Coffee, as well as John Velasco, COO of Mr. DIY, Growth Advisor of Angkas, and Executive Director of Creador.
With the battlecry “Onward, Upward, Together,” the conference likened leadership to climbing a summit — a journey of resilience, teamwork, and shared purpose. For Palawan, the summit remains clear: to make reliable and affordable financial services accessible to every Filipino.
Palawan Group leaders united for a powerful group photo symbolizing their shared journey of resilience, teamwork, and commitment to making financial services accessible to every Filipino.
More than a conference, the gathering was a reaffirmation of Palawan Group’s philosophy that leadership is a continuous journey — one that thrives on collaboration, growth, and malasakit for both people and communities.
As Palawan Group celebrates four decades of service, its leaders say the vision is set firmly on the next 40 years and beyond: investing in people, strengthening leadership, and ensuring that at every step forward, the Suki remains at the heart of what they do.
For decades, PR and marketing were treated like distant cousins in the communications world. Related, but rarely in the same room. While marketing drove sales, PR built reputation — one focused on revenue, the other on relationships.
But that division won’t cut it today. Stories now move faster than campaigns, and brand trust can be won or lost overnight. This calls for the synergy between PR and marketing.
Here’s how these two collaborate towards a seamless experience.
The Shift: From Selling to Connecting
Audiences today have become more discerning, more socially aware, and more emotionally attuned. Consumers don’t just want to buy from brands; they want to believe in them.
In other words, the lines between PR and marketing have been blurred. Where marketing once focused on persuasion, PR stepped in to bring meaning. Where PR once handled image, marketing began to drive visibility. Connection now sits at the center of both disciplines.
As PR pros often say: “Marketing tells the story, PR makes people care.” In today’s era of attention scarcity, making people care is the most valuable currency.
The Traditional Divide and Why It No Longer Holds
Let’s take a quick look at how these two roles were once defined:
Public Relations
Marketing
Primary Goal
Build reputation, trust, goodwill
Drive awareness, leads, and sales
Main Channel
Earned media (press, events, advocacy)
Paid and owned media (ads, promotions, websites)
Core Message
“We’re credible and trustworthy.”
“Here’s why you should buy from us.”
Time Horizon
Long-term relationship building
Short-term conversion goals
But audiences don’t separate your brand messages anymore. When they encounter your ad, tweet, news feature, or your CEO’s interview, it’s all part of the same narrative in their minds.
That’s why the best PR agencies are also IMC experts: professionals who ensure every channel, from press to paid ads, tells a consistent, believable story.
The New Convergence: Connection as a Strategy
When PR and marketing work together, you get a cohesive brand experience. Here’s how that convergence shows up in practice:
Unified Messaging
A PR campaign about sustainability aligns with marketing content promoting eco-friendly products. This coordination ensures that credibility (PR) supports conversion (marketing), and vice versa.
Earned Amplifies Paid
PR generates stories that marketing can repurpose. A good feature article can turn into content snippets for digital ads or social media campaigns. This way, you don’t have to overproduce or underproduce content.
When marketing and PR teams collaborate, earned media fuels paid visibility while paid media reinforces the credibility PR built.
Shared Data, Shared Insight
Modern PR now relies on analytics the same way marketing teams do. By pooling their insights together, brands can understand their audiences better. A PR agency in the Philippines that studies how its target market can give marketers valuable suggestions about which strategies truly resonate.
The Feedback Loop
Every PR campaign generates conversation; every marketing campaign generates data. When both teams listen to each other, they create a feedback loop that helps future campaigns hit closer to home.
This makes storytelling more human, more authentic, and more grounded in what real people are saying. It taps into the Filipino concept of pakikipagkapwa, thus cultivating authenticity and trust.
When the Two Don’t Align
Misalignment between PR and marketing creates dissonance that audiences immediately pick up on.
A marketing ad might say “We’re all about transparency,” while a PR crisis reveals otherwise. Or a campaign promotes inclusivity, but the brand’s internal communications don’t reflect it. Sometimes, Marketing puts up sale promises they can’t keep and leaves PR to clean up the fallout.
PR can’t fix what marketing misrepresents and marketing can’t sell what PR can’t make credible. The best way is to have them work together: to have one voice, one story.
The Role of PR Agencies in Bridging the Gap
The most effective PR agencies in the Philippines today act as connectors. They help brands align their storytelling across internal and external teams through:
Message Mapping: Ensuring consistency across earned, owned, and paid media.
Media Training: So that even marketing executives stay on-message during interviews or digital appearances.
Integrated Campaign Planning: Collaborating with digital, creative, and marketing teams from the start, not after.
Reputation Tracking: Monitoring how marketing messages are perceived in real time to adjust communication strategy.
When PR leads the alignment process, the brand’s voice becomes not only consistent but believable.
The Connection Era: Beyond Conversion
Connection is the new conversion. Audiences want to know what your brand stands for. They don’t just consume content — they participate in conversations.
This requires a strong collaboration between PR and marketing. When both move in sync, your brand resonates with your audience by ensuring mixing emotional depth and credibility. One without the other can’t easily achieve that.
At the end of the day, what sustains brands is trust earned, not bought.
MANILA, Philippines –Tanduay, the world’s number one rum, unveiled Andrea Brillantes as its 2026 Tanduay Calendar Girl in a glitzy media event held at The Elements at Eton Centris, celebrating not just a new face, but a renewed spirit of confidence, authenticity, and empowerment.
For decades, the Tanduay Calendar Girl has been a yearly highlight in local pop culture and known for merging glamour, artistry, and empowerment. Every calendar has
reflected the evolving image of the Filipina: confident, self-assured, and multifaceted.
The 2026 edition, themed “Iconic Era,” continues that tradition while redefining it for a new generation. Instead of focusing on allure, this year’s campaign celebrates individuality and authenticity, which are qualities that both the brand and its newest muse share.
“When I found out, I was honestly shocked. Like, ha? talaga ba?” Andrea recalled, laughing as she took the stage. “Growing up, I’d always see the Tanduay Calendar Girls as these strong, confident, iconic women, so to actually be one now feels surreal. It’s such an honor and definitely a huge milestone for me.”
The Making of an Icon
Brillantes admitted that becoming a Tanduay Calendar Girl required more than physical preparation.
“It really took a lot of preparation, both mentally and physically,” she said. “I had to be disciplined with my meal plans and make sure I felt good inside and out. I also studied each concept with the team because I wanted every photo to show a different side of me.”
Each layout in the 2026 calendar tells a story of growth, power, and transformation. From soft and introspective portraits to bold, fashion-forward imagery, the visuals are meant to reflect Andrea’s evolution and the brand’s message of confidence through self-awareness.
“Being a Tanduay Calendar Girl is about being real and confident,” she explained. “You have to embrace who you are, including your flaws, strengths, everything. Whether I’m soft, strong, playful, or fierce. That’s all me, and I’m proud of that.”
Andrea Brillantes is now stepping into her career with a renewed sense of maturity.
“People have watched me grow up, and now they’re seeing me as a woman,” she said. “I’m more sure of myself, more intentional with the things I do, and more confident to take control of my career. Hindi na siya about proving anything. It’s about enjoying where I am and celebrating how far I’ve come.”
Her new role as Tanduay’s ambassador seems to mirror the brand’s own evolution from a long-standing local distillery to an internationally awarded label that continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.
“I’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and now I know myself better,” she shared. “Mas marunong na akong pumili. Whether it’s people, projects, or where I put my energy. I’ve learned to protect my peace, trust my gut, and stand by my choices. I feel stronger and more grounded now.”
For Andrea, stepping into her Iconic Era means staying true to her core.
“Perhaps, people feel that energy because I try to stay authentic,” she said. “I grow, I
learn, I change, but I stay true to myself. I leave it up to them to see me as I am.”
For Tanduay, this new chapter continues its mission to honor not only beauty but also strength and individuality, which are values that have anchored the brand for more than 170 years.
As the night drew to a close and images from the Iconic Era calendar illuminated the screen, the message was unmistakable: both Tanduay and Andrea Brillantes are embracing change, growth, and authenticity.
99 St. Peter Delegates Represent the Philippines at the 2025 NFDA International Convention and Expo in Chicago, USA
Chicago, USA —St. Peter Chapels proudly represented the Philippines once again on the global stage at the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) International Convention and Expo, held in Chicago, USA, from October 26 to 29, 2025.
This annual event is recognized as one of the world’s most significant gatherings for funeral service professionals, offering a vital platform for learning, networking, and collaboration among leading practitioners and organizations from across the globe.
This year, 99 St. Peter delegates attended the convention, engaging in discussions and workshops on innovative approaches and global best practices in memorial care and service management. Their active participation through the years has remained part of St. Peter’s continuing mission to raise industry standards and ensure compassionate, professional service for every Filipino.
Francis Myl Bautista, President & CEO of Casket Corporation; Artemio Vitangcol III, President & CEO of St. Peter Chapels; and Jonathan Vitangcol, President & CEO of St. Peter Life Plan, Inc., share a moment with Christopher Robinson, President of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Board of Directors, during the 2025 NFDA International Convention and Expo in Chicago, USA.
Adding to this milestone, St. Peter Chapels was also once again recognized with the esteemed NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award — marking its 14th consecutive year of achieving this international distinction. The award honors funeral homes that demonstrate consistently high levels of service, operational excellence, and community involvement, placing St. Peter among the world’s leading providers of memorial services.
“This year’s recognition celebrates and honors St. Peter’s dedication to serving Filipinos with empathy, integrity, and love that endures beyond life,” said Artemio Vitangcol III, President and CEO of St. Peter Chapels. “Through our continued participation in the NFDA Convention, we remain inspired to innovate and elevate the standards of memorial care in the Philippines.”
With this latest achievement, St. Peter stands firm in its role as the premiere pioneer in the Philippine DeathCare industry, continuously striving to enhance the quality of its services and to bring home global insights that help strengthen the dignity, professionalism, and compassion that define the St. Peter brand.
In photo (from left): Mark Phillip Gochingco – Pru Life UK VP & Banca Partnership Head; Atty. Mabelle Nebres – Pru Life UK AVP, Sustainability&Takaful; Lemuel Ian Cua – Unit Manager; Ahmad Termini Bin Mohamed Din – Prudential BSN Takaful; Janet Lui Ramos – Area Manager; Dr. Abdul Ghafar Ismail – Malaysian Islamic Finance Scholar; Atty. Roy H. P. Raagas – CDO City Administrator; Atty. Mehol K. Sadain – Pru Life UK Takaful Window Consultant; Zoe Tamano Alonto Lucman-Mambuay – Pru life UK Takaful Agent Ambassador; Maricel Estavillo – Pru Life UK VP Sustainability and Takaful Head; Lailanie Robles – Branch Manager ; Bushro Binti Abu Bakar; Samer Allong, Former NCMF Commissioner
Pru Life UK has officially introduced PRUTerm Lindungi, its first Shari’ah-compliant life protection plan in the Philippines, to communities in Cagayan de Oro and nearby provinces. The milestone event, held on October 22, underscores the company’s commitment to making financial protection more accessible and inclusive for Filipinos.
PRUTerm Lindungi is Pru Life UK’s flagship Takaful offering for ages 18 to 60. It is designed primarily to meet the needs of Muslim Filipinos while remaining open to everyone—regardless of faith, tradition, culture, or income. Rooted in the Islamic principles of mutual aid, fairness, and shared responsibility, the plan provides an ethical and affordable life protection solution for individuals and families.
With a one-time contribution starting at only PHP 250, PRUTerm Lindungi offers PHP 100,000 in life protection, renewable annually until age 59, as long as the offering is available. Contributions go into a Shari’ah-compliant Tabarru’ Fund, or shared fund, which is managed separately from Pru Life UK’s conventional business. A portion of the unused funds, after setting aside reserves, if available, will be fairly distributed among policyholder-participants—reinforcing transparency, solidarity, and the spirit of mutual care within the community.
“With PRUTerm Lindungi, we’re introducing, together with our licensed Takaful-appointed agents, a form of financial protection that is based on the concepts of mutual assistance and donation. These are universal values, the reason why Takaful is for everyone,” said Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Vice President and Head of Sustainability and Takaful. “It’s one of our many ways of empowering families and communities—for every life, for every future.”
Modelled after similar successful Takaful products from Prudential’s operations in Malaysia and Indonesia, the name “Lindungi”—meaning “to protect” in Bahasa Malaysia and Indonesia—captures the offering’s core purpose: protection for every faith, every Filipino, and every future.
Historic dialogue
As part of the Cagayan de Oro event, Pru Life UK hosted its first-ever Dialogue with Ulama (Muslim scholars) in Mindanao, a historic and large-scale engagement that gathered over 45 religious leaders to discuss the concept of Takaful, its permissibility under Shariah, and the regulatory framework governing Takaful operations in the Philippines.
The dialogue also featured distinguished guest speakers from Prudential BSN Takaful Malaysia, who shared insights on Malaysia’s thriving Takaful industry and Prudential’s experience in building successful faith-based insurance solutions.
This Cagayan de Oro dialogue follows earlier engagements in Davao City—where Pru Life UK held an audience with local stakeholders that included religious leaders—and in Zamboanga City, where the company continued to advance its Islamic finance education initiatives. The first Dialogue with religious leaders was previously held in Greenhills, San Juan, with representatives from the Greater Metro Manila Muslim community.
Together with the Dialogue with Ulama, Pru Life UK also launched the Cagayan de Oro leg of its Adopt-a-Madrasah program, further strengthening its commitment to education, community partnerships, and inclusive financial literacy.
Through these initiatives, Pru Life UK continues to advance the national agenda for financial inclusion and the development of Islamic finance in the Philippines—championing ethical, values-driven financial solutions that protect and empower underserved communities.
For more information on PRUTerm Lindungi, please visit https://pru.ph/ad-pruterm-lindungi.
MANILA, Philippines—During the Holidays, everything feels a little bit more special – — from the lights and music to every shared meal. This season, McDonald’s Philippines is bringing the same warmth to every salo-salo by adding an extra sprinkling of happiness with its new Honey Butter Chicken McDo.
Available starting November 17, this limited-time offering can be made even better by adding their choice of Garlic Parmesan or Snow Cheese Powder on the Much Pinasarap Chicken McDo. They’re perfect additions to every Christmas table, bringing family and friends together to share special flavors made for the most special season!
“There’s something about Christmas that brings out the happiest side of every Filipino—and that’s exactly what we wanted to capture in every bite,” said Ada Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Chief Marketing Officer. “With the new Honey Butter Chicken McDo and McFlurry® White Choco Cereal, as well as the McFlurry® Matcha with OREO® we launched earlier this year, we’re adding that little sprinkle of flavor and happiness that makes the holidays even more special when shared with loved ones. And through every McDonald’s store, we’re bringing that happiness a little closer to everyone this season.”
A Celebration of Fun and Flavor
The Honey Butter Glazed Chicken McDo with Garlic Parmesan Powderis a mix of sweet, buttery, garlicky, and cheesy flavors, while the Honey Butter Glazed Chicken McDo with Snow Cheese Powder, has an indulgent mix of sweet, salty, and slightly cheesy flavors.
The Holidays wouldn’t be complete without dessert and this year, McDonald’s is introducing the new McFlurry® White Choco Cereal. This creamy vanilla soft serve is blended with cereal bits and swirls of smooth white chocolate — making it the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and milky sweetness. Together with the McFlurry® Matcha with OREO®, this limited-time dessert is best enjoyed with the new Honey Butter Glazed Chicken McDo!
Get Them Before They’re Gone
All of McDonald’s Holiday offers are available in all McDonald’s stores until supplies last. Whether it’s the sweet and savory Honey Butter Chicken McDo or the creamy McFlurry® White Choco Cereal and McFlurry® Matcha with OREO®, every bite of these holiday specials is made to bring people closer, because the best flavors of Christmas are the ones shared with those we love. It’s the perfect addition to every Christmas table, made for moments that bring everyone together.
For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.
An exciting alternative-pop/rock outing from the five-piece, Any Name’s Okay latest single ‘Sungit’ is a song that reminds listeners that love is recognizable, alive, and true during the imperfect moments. This track will be part of the group’s first full-length album, set for release in 2026.
“This song takes such a common Filipino word, and plays around with all the complex feelings that surround it. It is meant to be a snapshot of what a ‘mature’ love and relationship is–it’s never perfect, or nicely pleated. There is something so comforting about that,” said the quintet. “We always try to root our songs in a youthful, hopeful heart,” they added.
‘Sungit’ is a lighthearted reminder that no amount of petty spats, teasing, and bickering can stop you from returning home to the person you love. In fact, these small misunderstandings fill us with gentle affection – they make a bond feel real and alive. It is the cycle we are so familiar with: arguing one minute, smiling the next, and falling back into the same rhythm as if it were just innate in us. Love is alive in these tiny cracks. With lyrics that are playful as they are tender, ‘Sungit’ believes that we thrive in these pockets of imperfection.
Stream ‘Sungit’ now on your favorite streaming platforms, and follow Any Name’s Okay on all social media platforms for shows and updates.