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MindNation Mental Health Awareness Month campaign calls for urgent action in the workplace.


Metro Manila, Philippines — Mental health and well-being organization MindNation reports a significant rise in mental health challenges based on its 2024 WellBeing Survey, compared to data from 2022. This signals an urgent need for action as we navigate further into 2025. With insights from over 13,000 respondents, the data shows a growing number of Filipino employees facing heightened levels of stress, worry, and sadness.

Compared to 2022, the percentage of individuals reporting stress rose from 57% to 72% in 2024. Reports of worry surged even higher, with a 21-point jump from 47% to 68%. Feelings of sadness also increased from 34% to 50% – a clear sign that emotional fatigue and mental burnout are becoming everyday experiences for many.

Financial strain continues to be the leading source of mental health challenges, cited by 54% of respondents. This is exacerbated by pressure to perform at work (34%), physical health issues (26%), family-related problems (24%), difficulties of juggling both work and family responsibilities (22%), and job insecurity (15%). The rising numbers paint a clear picture: mental health challenges especially in the workplace are escalating, highlighting the urgent need for stronger support systems at work and in our daily lives.

 

 

“What we’re seeing is not just burnout, it’s a mental health crisis quietly unfolding inside homes and workplaces,” said Cat Triviño, co-Founder and Chief Product and Data Officer of MindNation. “Despite growing awareness, many still struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn. It’s time we normalize proactive support systems for emotional well-being and make them accessible to all.”

Now supporting over 120,000 individuals across Asia, Latin America, and the U.S., MindNation remains committed to delivering reliable, accessible, and innovative mental health care. Their evidence-based services including the WellBeing Bundles, BestMe Dashboard©, 24/7 AI chat, 8-Minute Connect©, and 24/7/365 specialized coaching and teletherapy have helped thousands reduce stress, improve work performance, relationships, and regain balance.

 

 

Driving Guaranteed Support: MindNation Mental Health Awareness Month Promos
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, MindNation is launching two powerful initiatives aimed at breaking down the barriers to care:

Feel Better or It’s Free Guarantee – Individuals who book a session and don’t feel better afterward may be eligible for a refund, reinforcing MindNation’s confidence in the quality and care of its services.

40% Off Teletherapy Sessions – Throughout the month of May, individuals can book a licensed Psychologist or WellBeing Coach at a discounted rate:₱1,080 for Psychologist sessions (regular ₱1,800)
₱510 for WellBeing Coach sessions (regular ₱850)

 

 

Booking is available via MindNation’s Facebook or Instagram or by emailing book@mindnation.com from May 1 – 31, 2025 only.

These initiatives reflect MindNation’s mission to make mental health care more approachable and equitable. Only 4% of individuals currently seek professional help, despite experiencing high levels of emotional distress, according to the survey.

“In the last five years, we’ve proven that when mental health is prioritized, lives and organizations thrive,” Triviño added. “We hope this month becomes a turning point where more people feel empowered to seek help, take a pause, and for leaders and the government to fully invest in good health and well-being.”

Cyclists ride together in celebration of World Bicycle Day at SM, promoting eco-friendly mobility and cleaner cities as part of Philippine Environment Month 2025.


 

As a long-standing advocate for sustainability, SM Cares—the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls—once again mobilized thousands of Filipinos in celebration of Philippine Environment Month, reinforcing its commitment to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future through its movement for an #SMWasteFreeFuture.

Throughout the month of June 2025, SM Supermalls nationwide served as rallying points for environmental action, drawing in communities, partners, and changemakers through dynamic and impactful programs that aligned with the spirit of cycling for change, cleaning together, and conserving what matters.a

Cycle: Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles

In celebration of World Bicycle Day, 26 SM malls across the country hosted community bike rides and various bike-related events—encouraging greener mobility while rallying support for various environmental and health initiatives. These bike rides weren’t just about pedaling—they were about movement of people, ideas, and purpose.

Clean: Protecting Our Waters Together

To honor World Oceans Day, 18 SM malls led coastal and river cleanup drives in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), LGUs, youth groups, and private sector partners. The initiative drew over 5,000 volunteers and resulted in the collection of more than 30,000 kilograms of trash, showing how collective action can create real environmental impact. 

Conserve with Purpose: Engaging Through Culture, Education, and Action

As part of its Environment Month campaign, SM Cares expanded its initiatives through a series of educational and cultural activities that promote purposeful conservation. These included a green film showing in partnership with government agencies to raise awareness on climate action and biodiversity, a bike-hike-plant activity that combined cycling, reforestation, and volunteerism, and a youth-led battle of the bands that fused music and environmental advocacy.

“These efforts reflect our deep commitment to help build a culture of sustainability in every community we serve,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for Environment. “An #SMWasteFreeFuture isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility that we proudly share with our mall-goers, employees, and partners.”

These initiatives also support several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals—demonstrating SM Cares’ continuing commitment to environmental stewardship through multi-sector collaboration and community engagement.

This Philippine Environment Month, SM Cares continues to prove that progress happens when communities come together—with every ride, every cleanup, and every small act of conservation bringing the country closer to a future that’s cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable.

Sustainably SM: Driving Collective Action for a Greener Tomorrow

As a Sustainable Mall, SM Cares champions environmental stewardship through inclusive and future-forward initiatives that promote sustainable living, climate resilience, and resource conservation.

By actively engaging mall-goers, communities, and partner organizations, SM Cares fosters collective action to reduce environmental impact, and build a greener, more resilient future. Through education, innovation, and strong partnerships, SM Cares leads the way in creating sustainable spaces and inspiring everyday environmental responsibility across generation.

40 Years of Building Better Communities

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

For more information about SM Cares and its environmental sustainability programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media.

LEADERS UNITE FOR ART. Officials from Bulacan and SM City Baliwag join hands in the ceremonial paint pouring to open the art exhibit. Gracing the event were (L-R) Mr. Ajay Manalo, representing Vice Governor Alex C. Castro; SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora S. Tolentino, Ms. Trishia Salveio, representing Governor Daniel Fernando; Baliwag City Administrator Eric Tagle; and Dean of College of Architecture and Fine Arts, Bulacan State University Ar. Dennis L. Estacio, Ph.D.

SM City Baliwag has turned into a vivid canvas this month as the mall officially launched “Art for Everyone”, an art fair that boldly transforms mall space into a platform for Filipino creativity, spotlighting works that are not only meant to be admired but owned.

Running until July 31, Art for Everyone goes beyond the traditional gallery experience by offering a space where art is accessible, artists are celebrated, and the public becomes part of a cultural exchange. The exhibit is not just a visual feast but a creative opportunity, designed to showcase and sell the works of Bulacan’s finest and rising visual artists.

 

ART FINDS HOME. SM City Baliwag launches a platform for both seasoned and budding Bulacan artists to connect with the public and sell their works.

 

A collaborative effort with the Bulacan State University College of Architecture and Fine Arts Faculty and Alumni, and Ang Bagong Likha Art Group, the exhibit features a diverse collection of paintings, mixed media pieces, and digital art.

The effort echoes the success of last year’s Art Market, which earned SM Supermalls a Gold Stevie® Award for Innovation in the Use of Events.

INSPIRED VIEWING. An art lover is drawn into the color, texture of a local piece on display at SM City Baliwag’s Art for Everyone.

MASTERPIECE MOMENT. A visitor gets an intimate look at a standout artwork, taking in the details that speak to Bulacan’s rich artistic heritage.

“Art for Everyone isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a platform,” said Mall Manager of SM City Baliwag, Rodora Tolentino. “We want our mall to be a place where art can thrive, where artists can turn their passion into opportunity, and where people from all walks of life can enjoy and own a piece of Filipino creativity.”

BULACAN ON CANVAS. A vibrant collection of local artworks captures the heart of Bulacan’s thriving creative scene at SM City Baliwag’s Art for Everyone.

The exhibit at SM City Baliwag officially opened on July 19, drawing art lovers, collectors, students, and weekend shoppers into a multi-sensory experience. Beyond the brushstrokes and frames lie stories of heritage, modern identity, and the evolving Filipino spirit told by artists who call Bulacan home.

When the skies darken and storm alerts dominate the news, the best thing you can do is be prepared. Typhoons in the Philippines are growing stronger and less predictable, but with the right tools and information, you can weather any storm safely. Here are five life-saving tips to help protect your home and family.

Stay Informed. Knowledge is your first line of defense. Tune in to trusted weather bulletins and updates from credible sources. A rechargeable vintage radio from Surplus ensures you stay connected even during power outages—no WiFi or signal needed.






Be Ready. Don’t wait until it’s too late to gather your emergency essentials. Ready-to-use first aid kits from Watsons and flashlights, batteries, ropes, and emergency tools from Ace Hardware can make all the difference. And remember to withdraw cash in advance, since ATMs may be inaccessible during or after a storm.






Stock Food Supplies. Secure at least three days’ worth of clean drinking water and ready-to-eat food. Visit SM Supermarket and SM Hypermarket ahead of time to build your emergency pantry while supplies are still plenty.






Secure your Home. Before the storm hits, check for loose roofing, shaky windows, or rusted locks. Reinforce weak spots with tools, sealants, and home repair items from Ace Hardware, all under one roof at your nearest SM mall.






Prepare for Power Outages. Electricity is often the first thing to go during a storm. Stay comfortable and safe by investing in a portable generator. Ask the experts at Ace Hardware for energy-efficient options that can power your essentials without breaking the bank.

All these items and more are available at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela. Whether it’s a simple flashlight or a full emergency setup, you’ll find everything you need to stay storm-ready.

Stay safe. Stay prepared. And let SM help you weather any storm.

The Art for Everyone exhibit opened at the Mall Atrium of SM City Masinag

Explore a landscape of Filipino creativity as SM City Masinag launches the Art for Everyone exhibit, now open to the public until July 26, 2025. This must-see art exhibit in Rizal is part of a nationwide celebration across SM Supermalls, showcasing diverse artworks from talented local artists and art groups.


The launch event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by renowned paper artist Badz Magsumbol, along with SM Supermalls executives including Senior AVP for Operations Ronald Allan Brosas, Regional Operations Manager Don Vijandre, and SM City Masinag Mall Manager April Duques.

Now on display at the Mall Atrium of SM City Masinag, the exhibit houses over 200 artworks—from expressive paintings and modern illustrations to creative paper cuttings and mixed media installations. The collection offers visitors a chance to experience and support the richness of Philippine art in one accessible location.

Featured in this year’s Art for Everyone at SM City Masinag are works from:

• Valenzuela Visual Art Society (VVAS) – a group of artists from Valenzuela City creating pieces in painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media.

• Papercutters Guild of the Philippines (PGP) – the country’s largest collective of papercutters, quillers, and paper sculptors, known for their intricate and imaginative paper artworks.

• 89 Collective – a multi-disciplinary group composed of painters, sculptors, portrait artists, and even a soil artist, united in using art to connect with communities.

• Badz Magsumbol – founder of PGP and advocate for sustainable and meaningful art through education and mentorship.

More than just an art show, Art for Everyone is a platform that connects emerging and seasoned Filipino artists with new audiences and art collectors. It also serves as a unique cultural experience and one of the top things to do in Antipolo this July.


Don’t miss this inspiring local art exhibit in Rizal! Visit Art for Everyone at SM City Masinag and immerse yourself in the beauty, passion, and creativity of homegrown Filipino art. The exhibit is open daily during mall hours until July 26, 2025.

For updates and more events, follow SM City Masinag on official social media accounts.

Philips, one of the world’s biggest international brands, delivers meaningful innovations that help improve people’s quality of life. Founded in the Netherlands, the diversified company has a 132-year history of developing top of the line products known for their uncompromising performance and indisputable reliability.

Starting as a small light bulb manufacturer, Philips expanded into new business areas in its commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. In consumer electronics in particular, Philips introduced iconic products such as the compact cassette and the CD as well as Color TV and cutting-edge OLED displays that have reshaped how people are entertained. Philips has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible while remaining grounded in consumer’s basic needs.
The company’s dedication to innovation has become a highlight of Philip’s continuing presence in the Philippine market. Filipinos have come to appreciate that Philip’s globally well-known products are synonymous with quality and reliability.

Smart Home
A legacy of innovation and dependability should spell the big difference as Philips launches an expanded products selection to include smart home solutions in the country. Tech solutions for the smart home are a recent trend, aimed at ensuring convenience and security for the homeowner. Philips’ smart home catalogue includes smart locks, smart safes, and Bluetooth speakers that live up to its century-old legacy of manufacturing reliable advanced products.

Smart Lock
Evolving the use of traditional door locks, Smart Locks implement advanced technology for a safer modern home. In their ground-breaking innovation, Philips Smart Locks feature fingerprint recognition, PIN codes, RFID cards, and remote smartphone access for a hands-free, convenient home entry experience. Some models also offer Face Recognition and Palm-Vein Recognition, adding even more advanced layers of biometric security. Robust hardware, anti-tampering design, and seamless integration with smart home systems ensure peace of mind for the homeowner. These setups offer layered access control that’s particularly beneficial for families with helpers, frequent visitors, or household staff.

Smart Safe
When it comes to safeguarding your prized possessions, nothing beats top-notch security. With advanced fire resistance, biometric fingerprint unlocking, and versatile access methods, the Philips Smart Safe Box is designed for those who prioritize safety and technology. Furthermore, the combination of biometric and PIN code access methods allows a backup way to unlock the safe. Add Wi-Fi connectivity, two-factor authentication, and real-time alerts packed in an elegant construction, and Philips Smart Safe is the intelligent storage solution for your valuables.

Bluetooth Speakers
Available in budget-friendly and high-end models, Philips Bluetooth speakers basically balance portability and performance. Its compact design, hands-free convenience and 10-hour battery life fit the demands of people on the go. Its advanced sound technology delivers clear audio with pumping bass, which even casual listeners will love. While not entirely waterproof, Philip’s Bluetooth speakers can easily handle sweat, splashes or rain showers, making it a suitable side buddy during physical exercises, campus runs or even long hikes. Philips also offers a Karaoke Series under its Bluetooth speaker line, perfect for music-loving Filipinos who enjoy singing on the go or at home with friends and family.

Philips places utmost importance on consumer safety and product reliability. Upholding a legacy of quality and innovation, the brand continues to evolve and expand its product line while maintaining exceptional standards. Its smart home solutions are equipped with a full suite of valuable features designed to help Filipinos enjoy a more convenient and fulfilling home life.

Commitment to Well-Being
Technology will never cease to evolve, and Philips will be a guiding light as the modern Filipino households and businesses overcome the challenges of new frontiers to conquer. Driven by a legacy of innovation that spans over a century, Philips especially in the Philippines will continue to be a trusted partner to Filipino consumers in bringing useful, secure and reliable products to a growing market segment.

Left to right: (top row) Sun Life PH Chief Agency Officer Deo Orpilla, Sun Life PH Chief HR Officer Michelle Garcia, Deputy Director-General for Museums for the National Museum Jorell Legaspi, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. President JJ Moreno, Sun Life PH Chief Strategy and Enablement Officer Aleister Cruz, (bottom row) Sun Life PH Chief Client Experience & Marketing Officer Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Odangputik Art Space Co-Founder and Lead Artist Ianna Engaño, Odangputik Art Space Co-Founder & Curator Lin Bajala, and Liter of Light Co-Founder and Board Director Ami Valdemoro.

Manila, PH – 4 June 2025 – Get ready for a dazzling spectacle at the heart of Manila!

The National Museum is set to host a breathtaking art installation that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a beacon of hope for communities across the Philippines. 

Imagine this: over 3,500 handcrafted solar lamps, each telling a story of sustainability and Filipino ingenuity, will transform the open area of the National Museum of Natural History into a mesmerizing Circle of Light. This stunning display, aiming for a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the largest display of solar powered lamps this July 1, is Sun Life Philippines’ way of celebrating its 130th anniversary with a bang – and a whole lot of heart. 

From July 2 to 9, 2025, visitors can wander through this luminous wonderland, marveling at the interplay of light and shadow. But the real magic happens after the exhibit closes. These beautiful lamps will find new homes in Talim Island and areas in Region IV-A, bringing much-needed illumination to students and communities living off the grid. 

The National Museum, known for its commitment to showcasing Filipino heritage, sees this collaboration as a blend of art, science, and social responsibility. “Through the Circle of Light, the National Museum is able to showcase its shared dedication with Sun Life of supporting creative, green, and sustainable advocacies and presenting them through this illuminating installation,” Jorell Legaspi, Deputy Director-General for Museums for the National Museum of the Philippines, said.

The Circle of Light also highlights the solar expertise of global changemaker Liter of Light and local pottery advocate Odangputik Art Space.

Liter of Light Co-Founder and Board Director Ami Valdemoro recounted how their hand-built solar lights are guided by three principles: to utilize readily available and local materials, teach green skills, and create livelihoods for the communities served. “Likewise, Sun Life’s Circle of Light initiative fulfills those principles,” she said. “We are all united in the idea that everybody can make a difference, and we will soon have 3,500 examples of what we can do when we give our time and talent to a meaningful project.” 

The program also fosters cultural appreciation for the art of ceramic pottery. Lin Bajala, Co-Founder and Curator of Odangputik Art Space explained, “Ceramic pottery isn’t easy. Through our community gatherings, we help people understand that this is an interdisciplinary collaboration between art and science. In a way, the Sun Life Circle of Light is helping us build cultural appreciation for this type of art.”

For its part, Sun Life expressed gratitude for the support for Circle of Light. “It’s remarkable how Circle of Light has brought together organizations and volunteer lamp-builders within the Sun Life community in pursuit of a noble mission. Together, we are turning science into art, and art into hope,” Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Sun Life Philippines Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer said. “It not only mirrors the trust that Sun Life has received over the years but it also stands for our commitment to make more lives brighter for the next 130 years and beyond.”

To know more about Circle of Light, visit www.sunlife.co/CircleofLight or follow @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay updated on the program.

• Survey of 1,000 consumers in the Philippines shows Filipinos value independence, quality of life, and purpose over longer life spans.
• Despite rising health concerns, especially among those aged 25-34, most Filipinos surveyed do not take sufficient preventive health actions.
• Amid widening retirement savings gap, Filipinos see the link between finances and health but remain underprepared for retirement.
• Many Filipinos place excessive reliance on cash as a placeholder investment, increasing the risk that they might outlive their savings in the face of potential longer life expectancy.

MANILA, Philippines – A shift in how Filipinos view longevity is emerging, as they prioritize quality of life more than simply living longer as they age, according to the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025: “Embracing Longevity: Enjoying a Better Life.” The comprehensive study, which surveyed 1,000 Filipinos, revealed that only 13% of respondents chose living a longer life as their top wish when they consider their older years, while 26% prioritize financial independence and 17% value staying physically, mentally, and socially active.

The Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025, which ran in January and February, explored attitudes around how the region views longevity, as global life expectancies continue to rise.

Among those who value quality of life over lifespan, the respondents’ desired lifespan averages 69 years—below the national life expectancy, which is projected to reach 73.2 by 2050—suggests a preference for a life of purpose, vigor, and independence over sheer longevity.

“Filipinos are redefining what it means to live a good life,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “They are no longer focused solely on longevity. Instead, they want to live better—with freedom, dignity, and the ability to enjoy life on their own terms. This shift challenges us to rethink how we support them—not just with insurance, but with holistic solutions that enhance their quality of life.”

Health concerns continue to rise, especially among younger Filipinos

The survey also revealed that health issues are a growing concern, particularly among Filipinos aged 25-34. Nearly 44% of respondents reported experiencing physical or mental health problems that affect their daily lives. Despite this, most Filipinos surveyed are not taking enough preventive action.

On average, more than half of the survey respondents engage in only 5 out of 17 recommended preventive health measures that can support a longer, healthier life. Critical indicators of long-term health—such as muscle mass and oxygen uptake—are monitored by just 16% of participants. These metrics are scientifically linked to longevity and overall vitality yet remain largely overlooked.

Despite this, 74% believe their current health habits are sufficient to protect their health as they age.

“There is a clear gap between awareness and action. Filipinos understand the importance of health, but many are not taking the necessary steps to protect it,” added Hora. “This disconnect could lead to long-term vulnerabilities, which will be challenging to address later in life. To bridge this gap, we encourage Filipinos to take more proactive steps, such as scheduling regular check-ups, adopting healthier lifestyle habits, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, to help safeguard their overall health and well-being.”

Filipinos face a retirement savings gap

The survey also highlighted the strong relationship between financial stability and health outcomes. A significant 80% of respondents believe that their financial well-being directly affects how long they can remain physically healthy. Similarly, 76% say it impacts their mental health and emotional resilience.

However, despite this awareness, the average retirement savings among Filipinos is only PHP 630,000—16% of the PHP 3.85 million they estimate they will need to retire comfortably.

“Filipinos recognize that wealth and health are deeply connected,” said Aira Gaspar, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Investments Philippines. “However, their current savings and investment behaviors do not necessarily reflect this awareness. The gap between what they have saved and what they will need could compromise their ability to live independently and with dignity in later years.”

Retirement planning: A shift in priorities, but gaps remain

When it comes to preparing for retirement, cash remains king for many Filipinos. The survey found that 66% view keeping their money in cash or fixed deposits as one of their top 2 priorities, while 51% express they want to invest in property. However, more than half (54%) also expressed a desire for steady income streams during retirement—something that cash-heavy portfolios may not be able to provide, especially in the face of inflation and rising healthcare costs.

“We are seeing a shift in how Filipinos think about retirement,” Gaspar noted. “While they are starting to realize that relying solely on property or savings may not be enough, many still hold excessive cash, which raises their longevity risk or the risk that they might outlive their savings, particularly in the face of potential longer life expectancy.

Gaspar added, “At Manulife Investments, we empower Filipinos to create more holistic wealth portfolios by giving them diverse and affordable investment choices, which they can use as building blocks to mobilize their savings, receive recurring income streams and achieve financial independence throughout their lifetime. Today, Filipinos can choose from our suite of 22 unit investment trust funds (UITFs), including six income-paying UITFs, spanning multi-asset, fixed income, equity and real estate investment trusts (REITs) asset classes that can be accessed for as little as Php1,000.”

The value of professional financial advice is also evident in the data: 70% of those who work with financial planners believe they will have enough funds for retirement, compared to only 38% of those without such guidance.

Supporting Filipinos’ fresh definition of Longevity

As Philippine life expectancy continues to increase in the coming years, the need for comprehensive health and wealth planning becomes critical.

“The message from Filipinos is clear—they want to age with dignity, maintain their independence, and have the financial freedom to do what matters to them,” Hora concluded. “At Manulife, we are committed to evolving our products and services to support this vision. That means offering solutions that go beyond medical and critical illness coverage to address health protection needs and offering investment options that can provide reliable income streams for a better, more fulfilling life.”

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Resources:

• Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025 – https://www.manulife.com.ph/about-us/manulife-studies/asia-care-survey/2025/top-wish-of-filipinos-in-golden-years.html
• National life expectancy – https://population.un.org/wpp/