More Miles Than Milestones? Agrupis' Foreign Trips Face Scrutiny

Concerns have been raised about whether Shirley Agrupis, the chair of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), has become the most travelled chairperson in the organization's history and what advantages her travels have brought to Philippine higher education.

Agrupis' increasing attendance at international events has drawn the attention of critics and observers in the education sector, who are now calling for greater transparency about the number, cost, and outcomes of her international travels.

Her latest trip to Paris has brought the issue back into focus.

In a social media post, Agrupis described the extreme heat in the French capital, saying temperatures had reached 43 degrees Celsius and were “too hard to tolerate/survive.”

She also made broad observations about Paris' preparedness for climate change, claiming the “world's famous City apparently is not ready or have not anticipated that climate change was coming.”

Agrupis went on to say that because homes, apartments, some hotels, and public areas lacked air conditioning, there was "practically NO place to hang on" in the heat.

While attending an international engagement, a senior Philippine government official publicly discussed conditions in a host country in a tone that provoked criticism.

Agrupis ended her post with a call to action on climate change: “LET US save our planet EARTH.”

The post drew reactions online, including one social media user who remarked: “Let's save our planet earth tapos nag travel sa Paris. Hahaha.”

Beyond the social media exchange, however, questions over Agrupis' foreign travel remain.

Some have questioned whether her overseas schedule is more extensive than that of previous CHED chairpersons. Examining and disclosing CHED's official travel records would reveal the number of trips Agrupis has taken, their funding sources, and the measurable outcomes of each engagement.

The head of CHED frequently travels overseas, particularly as Philippine universities participate in regional and global education initiatives and expand their international partnerships.

On the other hand, observers argue that the frequency of these interactions should be accompanied by clear and noticeable benefits for the country's higher education system.

How many international trips has Agrupis taken since taking office? What particular initiatives, partnerships, or chances for Filipino institutions and students have resulted from these interactions, and how much money has been invested in them?

At a time when CHED is still addressing pressing domestic issues, the growing attention to Agrupis' foreign travel is unlikely to end without greater transparency.

Whether Agrupis is, in fact, CHED's most traveled chairperson will be determined by the records. The more important question is what Philippine higher education has learned from the journey.

Justice Zones to Strengthen Coordination within the Nationwide Justice System

“Today’s launch reflects more than commitment. It reflects vision and the conscious decision of the City of San Fernando to embrace a system where communication, cooperation, and collaboration become the foundation of every action and every decision. The launch marks a shift in perspective. From functioning as separate offices, the justice sector agencies and actors of the City of San Fernando now move forward together as one collective unit; a Justice Zone.” ~Secretary Fredderick A. Vida, Representing the DOJ 

(L-R) Department of Justice undersecretary Atty. Ian Norman Dato, assistant secretary Robert Nomar V. Leyretana, and associate justices John Z. Lee and Rex Bernardo L. Pascual

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has welcomed the City of San Fernando, La Union, into the expanding network of Justice Zones under the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) as part of continuous efforts to enhance national coordination of the justice system.

The initiative, which was unveiled during the grand ceremony at Hotel Aureo, is part of the JSCC's ongoing expansion, which aims to improve the efficacy and coherence of justice delivery across local jurisdictions by fostering closer collaboration between the five pillars of justice: law enforcement, prosecution, courts, corrections, and the community.

On behalf of DOJ secretary Fredderick A. Vida, DOJ Law Enforcement Cluster Undersecretary Ian Norman E. Dato stated the DOJ's steadfast support for the City of San Fernando's integration into the growing Justice Zone network nationwide.

At Justice Zones, cooperation between law enforcement, prosecution, courts, prisons, and community stakeholders is expected.

"Justice Zones thrive  because they develop a stronger culture of interdependence, coordination, and shared responsibility in the service of justice. With an established Justice Zone, law enforcement agencies gain the assurance of prosecutorial involvement during the case build-up stage. At the same time, prosecutors gain confidence that the cases filed before them meet the required quantum of evidence, ensuring that only quality cases are brought before our courts." ~Ian Norman E. Dato, DOJ Law Enforcement Cluster Undersecretary

Department of Justice undersecretary Atty. Ian Norman Dato

Additionally, according to the DOJ, the framework guarantees early prosecutorial involvement, boosts prosecutors' confidence that filed cases contain the necessary amount of evidence, and improves coordination during case build-up.

The launch in San Fernando follows JSCC-led initiatives in other parts of the country, including specialty zones in Calbayog, Tacloban, Ormoc, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Ozamiz that deal with child exploitation and online sexual abuse (OSAEC-CSAEM).

The DOJ also highlighted ongoing reforms within the National Prosecution Service, including updated policies on inquest and preliminary investigation proceedings, to enhance case efficiency and support broader efforts to decongestion the justice system.

During the event, judges, prosecutors, public attorneys, law enforcement officials, and representatives from the local justice sector were also recognized for their participation and continued support of the Justice Zone framework.

Ballet Manila brings back global ballet superstars Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim in La Bayadère

“We are very excited to welcome Renata and Kimin back to Ballet Manila. Their performances in Don Quixote were truly unforgettable, and the response from Filipino audiences was overwhelming. It was a delight to see our audiences embrace them so warmly, and I know many have been looking forward to seeing them perform here again. Renata and Kim’s extensive experience with La Bayadère promises Filipinos audiences a moving and authentic interpretation of Marius Petipa’s enduring masterpiece. We hope that by the end of the show, the audience will have a renewed love for ballet.” ~Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s Founder and Artistic Director

Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim return for Ballet Manila's La Bayadere

Filipino audiences will witness the remarkable and well-known artistry, passion, and technical mastery of two of the world's most famous ballet performers when they return to the Philippine stage.

The Mariinsky Ballet's principal dancers, Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim, will return to Ballet Manila in August to revive the timeless classic La Bayadère. The performance will take place at the Aliw Theater on August 14 at 8 PM and August 15 and 16 at 5 PM.  

Significantly, their return advances Ballet Manila's long-standing objective of bringing excellent ballet closer to Filipino audiences by giving local theatergoers a rare chance to see internationally recognized performers in the country.

Kim and Shakirova's exceptional qualifications are advantageous to the production. One of the Mariinsky's best prima ballerinas, Shakirova is a native of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and is renowned for her musicality, dramatic depth, and commanding presence. Early on, her exceptional talent was identified, and she has already won the coveted 2025 Benois de la Danse award, also known as the "Ballet Oscar."

However, despite beginning ballet at a relatively late age—roughly ten years old—Kim became the first foreign male principal dancer in the history of the Mariinsky Ballet.  He is well known for his remarkable athleticism and accurate technique. As a duo, they are equally impressive, having won Russia-Kultura TV's Grand Ballet competition in 2016.

For the couple, La Bayadère, a well-known ballet masterpiece, is nothing new. The tragic romance between the warrior Solor and the temple dancer Nikiya (bayadère) is the main focus of the story, which is set in ancient India. The High Brahmin (high priest), who is also in love with Nikiya, asks the Rajah to kill Solor after discovering their relationship. But his plan is foiled when the Rajah chooses to murder Nikiya instead. Both this world and the afterlife are included in the classic melodramatic love triangle.

At the Mariinsky Theatre, Kim regularly portrays the noble warrior Solor, and Shakirova has portrayed both the Nikya and the regal Gamzatti, showcasing her versatility and garnering international acclaim.

Stay up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Agrupis undercuts Secretary Angara to lead Delegation in the ASEAN Education Ministers Conference Fuels Questions Over Power and Influence

According to government sources, Agrupis' leadership style has once again come under scrutiny due to an apparent power struggle over who should head the Philippine delegation to the 14th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting and related meetings planned in Singapore this July.

At the core of the dispute is a basic question of protocol: Who serves as the Philippines' lead education minister and represents the country in ASEAN meetings?

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, the Department of Foreign Affairs informed Education Secretary Sonny Angara that it is customary for the invited Minister to hold the position of Head of the Philippine Delegation.

According to the same communication, records of prior ASEAN Education Ministers Meetings demonstrate that ministers of education represent their respective nations and that pertinent education organizations, like CHED and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, may attend the delegation as members of the ASEAN Matters Technical Board and contribute significantly.

The 14th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting is set to take place in Singapore in July 2026, according to the official ASEAN calendar. The meeting and associated activities will be hosted by Singapore's Ministry of Education, as previously announced by ASEAN.

However, sources with knowledge of the situation claim that Agrupis has been attempting to take the helm of the Philippine delegation and play a key role in establishing the nation's stance on topics to be discussed.

The reported insistence has reportedly caused friction and added headaches for officials at the DFA and DepEd at a time when the Philippine government is already heavily involved in regional coordination and ASEAN-related preparations.

Opponents now wonder if this is still about representing higher education or if it's just about one official trying to take center stage at the table.

The controversy has also reignited accusations that Agrupis has portrayed herself as "untouchable" and politically stable. Agrupis has reportedly mentioned her alleged intimacy with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on multiple occasions.

There is no evidence that Agrupis has received this level of political protection from the First Lady. Insiders, however, assert that Agrupis has allegedly strengthened her authority by using the claim of intimacy and power.

That distinction is very important. Malacañang hasn't made Agrupis untouchable, so that's not the question. Whether a government official is pretending to be close to the First Lady in order to sway subordinates and other officials is the question.

Because of this, there is also more scrutiny surrounding Agrupis' frequent attendance at international education events.

Her own recent social media post from Paris included images of the French capital and a remark about the city's heat wave. The post was later ridiculed in public by a social media user who wrote, "Let's save our planet earth tapos nag travel sa Paris."

One of the duties of a CHED chairperson is to engage internationally. However, critics argue that given the persistent worries about Agrupis' leadership and governance at home, the frequency and prominence of her overseas activities warrant further investigation.

Agrupis has actually recently assumed significant roles in regional higher education engagements, such as ASEAN-related projects in which CHED has promoted the ACHIEVE Agenda and Philippine higher education priorities.

But the Singapore dispute raises a different question.

When official protocol names the Education Secretary as the head of the Philippine delegation, why is the CHED chair purportedly insisting on taking the initiative?

A leadership style that is more directly related to influence projection, control, and visibility may be the answer for critics.

If allegations that Agrupis invokes her purported closeness to the First Lady are true, Malacañang may eventually have to deal with an awkward question: Is the First Lady's name being used to make a government official appear above accountability?

Why ZION Is Becoming a Strong Name in Home Recovery and Wellness in the Philippines

The demand for well-being is changing. More Filipinos are searching for ways to relax, recover, and feel better without continuously depending on outside therapists, massage parlors, or recovery centers. Searches for phrases like "massage chair," "back massager," "neck massager," "foot massage machine," "body massage," and "massage support for recovery" reveal a distinct pattern: people are searching for more dependable and practical at-home wellness options.

This is where ZION strengthens its position in the Philippine wellness market.

In this way, ZION enhances its position in the Philippine wellness market.

ZION provides more than just massage chairs. For people who want to integrate body comfort, relaxation, and recovery support into their everyday lives, it is developing an all-encompassing at-home wellness experience. With its range of massage chairs, recliners, saunas, and cold plunge solutions, ZION offers Filipino homes wellness products that encourage rest, relaxation, and more intelligent recovery routines. ZION's official collection includes massage chairs, recliners, saunas, and cold plunge categories, elevating the brand beyond a single product line.

For those looking for the best massage chair in the Philippines, ZION stands out with a range of models made for different lifestyles, spaces, and recuperation needs. Its massage chair lineup, which includes models like the ZION Deluxe, ZION Queen, ZION King, ZION King Pro, and ZION Ne−, gives customers more options based on their preferred level of comfort, technology, and premium experience.

ZION's strength also comes from technology. The ZION King's AI-powered massage chip is designed to locate tense muscles and adjust the massage's technique and intensity for optimal comfort. ZION has a bigger advantage in the market for smart massage chairs because it goes beyond basic massage features and enters the field of intelligent home wellness.

The ZION King Pro reinforces this advanced wellness positioning even more. It is described as a high-performance massage chair designed for health-conscious users with features like voice command control, shortcut keys, and an integrated health check function for a more seamless massage experience.

Furthermore, one of the most crucial requirements in the massage category is full-body comfort, which ZION offers. More than a simple massager is what people are searching for. Everyday body tension, neck strain, tired feet, back pain, and stress from work or movement are what they are seeking relief from. Phrases like "back massager," "foot massager," "neck massager," and "massage chair" are crucial because of this. They stand for what customers actually need: customized comfort that works with daily life.

ZION uses sauna technology to extend the idea of at-home recovery beyond massage chairs. The 100% pure carbon fiber heaters of the ZION Carbon Sauna are made to distribute heat effectively and evenly while using less energy. This enhances ZION's standing as a wellness company that places a high value on massage and heat-based rest and recuperation.

Because ZION offers a full recovery pathway—massage for body comfort, sauna for heat relaxation, and cold plunge for revitalizing recovery—it is particularly effective. ZION places these recovery touchpoints in a more approachable and intimate setting rather than viewing wellness as something that people only encounter outside the home.

ZION's value is also helpful. On certain product pages, the brand highlights deals like installment plans, free shipping in some areas, and lifetime warranties on services to make high-end wellness products more accessible for Filipino households.

For today's wellness consumer, convenience is crucial. A massage spa can be beneficial for a day. A massage therapist can assist with a session. On the other hand, using a ZION massage chair at home creates a routine. It allows users to relax after work, training, travel, or rest days without needing to schedule an appointment or leave the house.

This is the stronger claim for ZION: it turns the home into a personal recovery zone.

As more people search for massage chair Philippines, back massager, foot massage machine, neck massager, massage support recovery, and home wellness products, ZION positions itself as a premium choice for Filipinos who want wellness that is consistent, accessible, and built around real daily needs.

ZION is not just part of the wellness market.

It is helping shape the future of home recovery in the Philippines.

Discover ZION’s massage chairs, saunas, and home wellness solutions at zionphilippines.com.

PCPPI, LC BigMak renew beverage partnership for nationwide outlet network

“This is not a cold beginning. It is a return. A renewal. A second chapter,” said Phyo. “We will serve LC BigMak with the seriousness that your history deserves, with the discipline that your scale requires, and with the ambition that your future warrants.” ~Phyo Phyu Noe, PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) and the local fast-food kiosk chain LC BigMak have formally extended their collaboration, marking the beginning of a new stage of a business partnership built on nearly ten years of collaboration, shared standards, and service to Filipino consumers.

The renewed agreement was formally signed at a ceremonial ceremony held at the PCPPI Sto. Thanks to the Tomas Plant in Batangas, PCPPI will be LC BigMak's exclusive beverage partner throughout its more than 850 locations nationwide.

The signing was attended by senior leaders from PCPPI, PepsiCo, and LC BigMak, including PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, Chief Commercial Officer Lyndon Cuadra, and General Manager for Food Service and National Development Joseph Michael Go; PepsiCo General Manager Aditya Sheoran, Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Villarojo, and Franchise Lead Juris Melencio; and LC BigMak Chairman and Founder Francis Dy, Founder Edna Dy, and CEO Mark Dy.

The renewed partnership, according to PCPPI, is a reflection of the company's ongoing commitment to enhancing food service relationships by providing dependable supply, consistent execution, and greater value to clients and consumers.

LC BigMak, a family-run business founded in 1984 with its headquarters located in Lucena City, has developed into one of the most well-known fast-food burger kiosk networks in the nation. In keeping with the brand's familial origins, the name is derived from the initials of Maxima and Kimsuy, the founders' parents.

Mark Dy of LC BigMak, described the signing as a meaningful renewal between two brands with a long-standing history together.

“We are proud to partner again with a globally recognized brand like Pepsi,” Dy said. “To our partners in Pepsi, thank you for your renewed trust and collaboration. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.” ~Francis Dy, BigMak Chairman and Founder 

PCPPI and LC BigMak intend to enhance the experience across LC BigMak's nationwide network by fusing the chain's popular, reasonably priced food options with PepsiCo beverages that are consistently served throughout its locations.

The renewed partnership also shows PCPPI's broader commitment to offering improved route-to-market support, disciplined execution, and collaborations that enhance regular consumer events in order to serve more clients.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Maxicare Group provides easily accessible healthcare to keep Filipino workers productive

“Healthcare access is often a question of time and proximity. People delay consultations because of long commutes or the difficulty of stepping away from work. When care is easier to access, it becomes part of everyday life rather than something people postpone. When care is accessible, people seek help early and can focus on their work and families. For businesses, healthcare is an investment that enables people to perform at their best.” ~Raymond Hernandez, Maxicare Group Chief Customer Officer

Many Filipino workers manage their health by juggling time, money, and accessibility on a daily basis. Growing transportation costs, long commutes, and busy schedules often cause even a simple doctor's appointment to be delayed—not because of consultation fees, but because of the effort needed to get there.

It's getting harder for businesses to ignore this fact. Delayed care can lead to more severe health problems, longer absences, and decreased productivity. However, self-employed professionals and freelancers encounter similar challenges in the absence of employer-backed support, with time away from work potentially costing them money.

The nation's leading health maintenance organization, Maxicare Group, aims to close these workforce gaps and improve access to care so individuals can seek help sooner, heal faster, and continue to be productive.

From Access to Action: Turning Healthcare into Productivity

Maxicare combines digital, preventive, and physical care into a single ecosystem through its Corporate HMO and MyMaxicare health plans. These plan options give members access to the company's 45 Maxicare Clinics nationwide, which offer members specialized care, consultations, and diagnostics without the need for a Letter of Authorization or the use of their Maximum Benefit Limit.

This year, Maxicare opened nine new Maxicare Clinics. These Maxicare-owned and operated clinics add to the #1 HMO's extensive network, which includes more than 1,100 hospitals, 749 dental clinics, and 22,400 partner physicians nationwide, ensuring that high-quality care is always available.

Furthermore, Maxicare integrates useful solutions like HomeLabs, Member Gateway, and 24/7 Teleconsultation with Video Call, which allow its more than 1.5 million members to interact with doctors, get help, have LOAs approved online, or get diagnostic tests from home. 

Notably, there was a 93.5% annual increase in 24/7 Teleconsultation with Video Call sessions between 2024 and 2025. This move toward more accessible healthcare is becoming increasingly important as companies look for ways to better support their workers.

Outside of traditional workplaces, accessible healthcare is necessary. The unorganized sector, which includes freelancers, gig workers, and independent contractors, employs about 42% of Filipino workers. Many of these workers do not receive benefits from their employers and are dependent on unstable employment arrangements. In order to minimize time away from work and prevent lost revenue, this growing market depends on reliable and convenient healthcare, nearby clinics, and insurance.

As part of its integrated healthcare support, Maxicare also provides mental and emotional well-being. Through Gen Zen, members can receive expert guidance and counseling for stress, burnout, and everyday challenges, making it easier to seek assistance early and maintain productivity.

The Maxicare Group has shown that it shares this belief by keeping its Great Place To Work® certifications for three consecutive years. This achievement shows the Group's commitment to providing excellent, all-inclusive healthcare as well as an excellent work environment for its own employees. 

As labor demands continue to shift, Maxicare calls on companies to reevaluate how they support their workers. Similarly, independent contractors should start viewing healthcare as a worthwhile investment. When people have access to high-quality, integrated healthcare, they are empowered to maintain their productivity and well-being both at work and outside of it. To find out more about MyMaxicare health plans and Maxicare's integrated healthcare ecosystem, go to maxicare.com.ph.

As labor demands continue to shift, Maxicare calls on companies to reevaluate how they support their workers. Similarly, independent contractors should start viewing healthcare as a worthwhile investment.

About Maxicare Group

Since 1987, Maxicare Healthcare Corporation has led the way as the Philippines’ premier HMO. Today, we’re the Maxicare Group: a unified ecosystem built for your holistic health and wellness journey. We’ve brought together health plans, clinics, and insurance to deliver innovative and accessible quality care, whether it’s for you, your family, or your company.