SM Mobilizes 100 Volunteer Teams for CSR Day

SM Volunteer teams distribute shoes to elementary school students of Balatong Elementary School in Bulacan. The activity was part of the SM Store’s CSR Day.

SM, through the SM Store, recently organized 100 volunteer teams from across its retail network for Corporate Social Responsibility Day. This initiative demonstrates the company's commitment to volunteerism and community service by encouraging employees to make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

A total of 75 teams from the SM Store and 25 teams from various Retail Affiliates took part in a variety of community service activities. The initiative benefited over 100 people, including public schools funded by the SM Foundation, UNICEF Philippines, World Vision, Good Neighbors Philippines, and other local organizations. Volunteers distributed essential items like school supplies, shoes, hygiene kits, and food packs.

SM Retail has actively engaged its employees in meaningful social responsibility initiatives, with a particular emphasis on assisting underprivileged Filipino students. These initiatives include reading sessions, classroom painting, and community outreach. Through employee volunteerism, the company continues to empower communities and support Filipino youth.

About SM Investments Corporation

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

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

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

SM Center Angono's Grand Christmas Centerpiece with Luca’s Beary Merry Christmas

People in Angono were dazzled by the largest, brightest holiday show at SM Center Angono during the unveiling of their Christmas Centerpiece today, October 24, 2024.

Luca's Beary Merry Christmas promises to be a fantastic holiday for the entire family. Witness the amazing narrative of Luca and his buddies as they spread Christmas cheer in the mall.

The event featured performances by the famed Ruthless Comrades dancers, who were sure to impress the audience with their #SMagical routines. Joined in the thrilling countdown to the lighting ceremony, where Santa and his Elves will make a surprise appearance to lights the breathtaking display.

Santa and his Elves will give the kids gifts as part of the celebrations to spread holiday joy.

In the spirit of giving, the SM Bears of Joy campaign urges customers to purchase a pair of SM Bears of Joy for only 280Php, one for themselves and one to donate to a charity of their choice.

Don't miss up this opportunity to create amazing moments with your loved ones.

Visit SM Center Angono to feel the magic of Christmas with Luca's Beary Merry Christmas!

BPI's business development program helps start-up businesses

“We have witnessed the entrepreneurs’ determination through the program, and we’re excited to see how they will scale their businesses in the future. It has been an honor to be part of their journey. BPI Foundation is committed to empowering small enterprises, and we believe that with the right support, these entrepreneurs can significantly contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion. We look forward to seeing their continued success as they transform their visions into reality.” ~Carmina Marquez, BPIF Executive Director

Corinthian Anne Valenton, owner of Corrsy's Kitchen, offers Cheese Pimiento spread and Langka Calamansi jam. Corrsy’s Kitchen is one of the winners of SEAL-SEGA.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its social development arm, BPI Foundation (BPIF), in collaboration with Bayan Academy, recently announced the top 40 small and 20 nano enterprises from this year's Small Enterprise Acceleration Lab (SEAL) programme.

The SEAL Project Series, which launched in 2022, was created to not only support but also empower micro and nano enterprises, as well as aspiring entrepreneurs. SEAL has become a beacon of hope for small business owners looking to scale and sustain their operations by providing strategic interventions and hands-on guidance.

Over 200 entrepreneurs received invaluable training in product and service development, operations optimization, and marketing through the SEAL-Small Enterprise Growth Agenda (SEAL-SEGA) over the course of the previous year. More than just lessons, the program provided tailored solutions to the specific challenges these businesses faced. Top-performing businesses were not only given knowledge, but also cash grants and expert mentorship to help them grow.

This year, BPIF recognized 40 businesses that demonstrated exceptional potential, awarding them cash grants ranging from Php80,000 to Php120,000. These businesses, now equipped to carry out their strategic plans, will continue to benefit from ongoing mentoring.

OhMi Krafts, one of the winners of SEAL-BEGIN, customizes souvenirs from polymer clays, beads, wood, and succulents.

This year, BPIF also launched a new track known as the SEAL-Business Education and Growth Initiative for Nano-entrepreneurs (SEAL-BEGIN). SEAL-BEGIN provided basic training and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, with an emphasis on integrating digital-age opportunities.

SEAL-BEGIN had over 240 registrants, and 20 nano-enterprises were recognized for their promising potential and innovative ideas. Participants received entrepreneurial training and were encouraged to use local and government resources to grow their businesses.

Since its inception, the SEAL program series has supported numerous businesses, disbursing a significant amount of cash grants. The program is fostering a vibrant and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country by providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and financial aid.

Insular Foundation Offers Skills Training to Haven's Women Residents

“Inaasahan namin na magagamit ninyo ang inyong natutunan sa aming handog na Skills Training and beauty kits on Hairdressing and Nail Care, upang paglabas ninyo dito sa Haven for Women ay mayroon kayong baon para simulan muli ng maganda ang inyong mga buhay.” ~Ana Soriano, Insular Foundation Executive Director

The Insular Foundation provided residents of Haven for Women with skills training to help them gain practical skills and earn a living.  

InLife's corporate social responsibility arm sponsored a training on hairdressing and nail care skills for residents of the Department of Social Welfare and Development's National Capital Region Haven for Women in Muntinlupa City. The Insular Foundation also provided beauty kits stocked with tools and supplies to assist the women in starting home services or finding jobs in salons.  

The skills training was part of a three-year partnership between Insular Foundation, Haven for Women, and Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI). 

MCTI Operations Division Head Antonio Terrenal encouraged the women to use their new skills to gain livelihood. 

“Huwag nating sayangin ang ganitong pagkakataon na skills training na ibinigay ng MCTI at Insular Foundation. Kayo din ang aani ng pagsasanay nyo dito dahil magagamit nyo ito sa pagbabagong-buhay at paghahanap-buhay.” ~Antonio Terrenal,  MCTI Operations Division Head

Catherine Taleno, Social Welfare Officer III of Haven for Women, thanked Insular Foundation for supporting the government’s goal of empowering women. 

“The goal of Haven for Women is women empowerment so that our residents who are victims of gender-based violence can be productive members of their communities. Lubos po ang pasasalamat namin sa partnership na ito with MCTI and Insular Foundation. The government cannot do it alone. We need the assistance of our partners to achieve our goal.” ~Catherine Taleno, Social Welfare Officer III of Haven for Women

One of the training recipients expressed hope that they can use their skills to earn a living. “Kahit hindi ako nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral ay nagpapasalamat ako kasi natuto akong gumupit. Sana ay huwag tayong panghinaan at mawalan ng pag-asa, at maging matagumpay tayong lahat.”  

The ABPM-capable smartwatch from Huawei is now priced at PHP 19,999 in the Philippines

The HUAWEI WATCH D21, Huawei's first smartwatch with Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM), is now available for purchase. The latest HUAWEI wearable device elevates health and wellness tracking to a new level by providing improved, more accurate tracking capabilities. The HUAWEI WATCH D2, priced at PHP 19,999, will be available beginning October 25.

A 2020 survey on Home Blood Pressure Monitoring (HBPM) in Asia found that more than 95% of physicians recommend HBPM for hypertensive patients2. It also claims that the incorporation of HBPM, a method for hypertensive patients to measure their blood pressure at home, provides critical support for better hypertension management. With its ABPM capabilities, the HUAWEI WATCH D2 simplifies and streamlines regular self-monitoring. Its lightweight, comfortable, and functional design allows users to easily track their blood pressure at home and on the go.

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 was officially launched in the Philippines on October 17 at the HUAWEI Experience Store in SM North EDSA, where attendees received an exclusive and in-depth experience with the new addition to the HUAWEI WATCH D Series.

Monitor Your Blood Pressure Levels with Ease

The ABPM feature on the new Huawei WATCH D2 allows users to continuously track their blood pressure levels. The watch monitors blood pressure throughout the day, including at night, giving users a better understanding of their cardiovascular health. The watch is lightweight, with an ultra-narrow mechanical airbag super-slim profile that allows for comfortable all-day wear.

The Huawei WATCH D2 allows users to check their blood pressure by raising their wrist. The device also encourages users to be more proactive about their health by allowing them to set reminders to check their blood pressure when they wake up. At night, the watch automatically measures blood pressure without interruption. ABPM is set to occur every 30 minutes by default, but watch wearers can customize intervals between 15 and 60 minutes.

The collected data is made available through the HUAWEI Health App, where users can access comprehensive reports summarizing blood pressure fluctuations and recommending lifestyle changes. While the HUAWEI WATCH D2's ABPM feature makes it an excellent health management tool, particularly for those with hypertension, it should not be used to replace professional medical care.

Track Your Health and Fitness Better

The HUAWEI WATCH D2 includes the HUAWEI TruSense System, which provides faster and more accurate health monitoring. It uses the Fusion Blood Pressure Algorithm to provide more comfortable and accurate blood pressure readings. With a single tap, users can monitor nine vital health indicators, including heart rate, blood pressure, SpO2, stress, skin temperature, ECG, vascular elasticity, pulse wave arrhythmia, and sleep apnea, and generate a Health Glance3 report in 90 seconds. While the watch can provide users with useful information about their health, it is not a medical device and should not be used in place of professional diagnosis or treatment.

The watch's Beat-by-Beat ECG Analysis and Pulse Wave Arrhythmia alerts provide real-time heart health information. The upgraded heart rate monitor adjusts based on activity, and stress management and skin temperature monitoring features provide additional information. The HUAWEI Health App also allows users to keep track of their family members' health and alert them to any irregularities, thereby facilitating comprehensive family care. Users can easily manage the privacy settings for their family members' health data, limiting access to only the individuals they choose.

Watch Your Health in Style

The HUAWEI WATCH D2, available in gold, is designed to look stylish and elegant while remaining extremely comfortable, making it ideal for all-day wear. It has a sleek mirror bezel, a segmented body, a smooth curved surface, and a rotating crown. The 1.82-inch display, which features a 2.5D floating design, is larger and clearer.

The watch's sophisticated look and comfortable design make it appropriate for both formal and casual occasions. Its compact design allows for easy health tracking no matter what users are doing. The device includes medium and large straps in the box, ensuring a secure fit for all wrist sizes. The straps are made of sweat-resistant, skin-friendly TPU material, making them comfortable even after extended use.

Experience Smarter Convenience on Your Wrist

The latest version of the Huawei WATCH D Series encourages healthier habits by tracking daily tasks for exercise, diet, sleep, weight, and stress. It has more than 80 sport modes and automatically detects six common activities, providing accurate workout data via GNSS positioning. The watch's Sleep Mode feature relaxes users with white noise and soothing music, while comprehensive sleep monitoring measures heart rate, SpO2, and breathing patterns.

The watch also includes smart features like Bluetooth calling, NFC-enabled door and panel access, alarms, and a calendar. By the end of 2024, Huawei intends to integrate smart payment functionality with GCash payment features into the watch. The watch is compatible with iOS and Android devices, and comes with a battery that lasts up to six days typical use on a single charge.

Manage Your Health Smarter and Better with the HUAWEI WATCH D2

Starting October 25, the HUAWEI WATCH D2 will be available on Shopee, Lazada, Tiktok, the HUAWEI Online Store, HUAWEI Experience Stores, and authorized dealers nationwide. The watch is priced at PHP 19,999. Medium and large watch straps are included in the box. Secure your HUAWEI WATCH D2 today and receive a free Body Fat Scale (worth PHP 1,499) and one-year warranty extension (worth PHP 699). Collect vouchers on Shopee, Lazada, and Tiktok to save PHP 1,000 on the Huawei Watch D2 until November 30. Enjoy 0% installment promotions for up to 6 months when paying with SPayLater or LazPayLater, up to 18 months for Home Credit purchases, and up to 24 months for credit card purchases. Want to trade your device?

This exclusive offer is available from October 25 to November 30.

To learn more, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

HUAWEI's products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of HUAWEI's three business units and covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. HUAWEI's global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

For more information please visit: this page.

Home Credit’s top holiday gift picks this 2024

Christmas is just around the corner, and for Filipinos, it's a time of joy, love, and, of course, gift giving. While it is customary to shower loved ones with gifts, it is also a great time to reward yourself for all of your hard work this year. Who deserves a gift more than you?

If you’re wondering what would make the perfect gift, Home Credit Philippines, the country’s leading consumer finance company, curated a list of must-have items that are practical, exciting, and worth it! Whether you're looking for tech upgrades or home essentials, these picks will have you feeling like a winner this holiday season.

Smartphone. A new smartphone is always a good idea, especially as technology evolves at a rapid pace. Whether you're into photography, gaming, or simply staying connected with family and friends, the latest smartphone models offer the perfect combination of performance and style. Plus, with sharper cameras and enhanced battery life, you’ll be ready to capture every unforgettable Christmas moment and beyond.

 

Laptop. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your work or study-from-home setup or indulging in some online gaming during the holiday break, a new laptop might just be the best gift you can give yourself. Look for one with great processing power, sleek design, and ample storage, so whether you're creating content, working on projects, or simply binge-watching your favorite shows, you’re set for success.

 

Tablet. This device has become the ultimate go-to for multitaskers. Perfect for both productivity and entertainment, it’s a fantastic in-between device that combines portability with versatility. Whether you’re using it for digital notetaking, streaming movies, or sketching your next big idea, a tablet is a great companion to keep you on the go during the holidays.

 

Refrigerator. For homemakers, you can consider upgrading your kitchen this season with a new refrigerator, because nothing says “Christmas ready” like a fridge stocked with delicious holiday treats! Modern refrigerators come with energy-efficient features, larger storage capacity, and sleek designs that will elevate your kitchen space. Plus, with all those Christmas leftovers, a roomy fridge will definitely come in handy!

Smart TV. Get the best seat in the house this holiday season with a brand-new Smart TV. Ideal for family movie marathons or simply watching the latest Christmas specials, a Smart TV with ultra-clear resolution and intuitive apps can transform your living room into an entertainment hub. It’s the perfect gift for those who love immersive viewing experiences.
 
Washing Machine. Who says practical gifts can’t be exciting? Investing in a new washing machine this Christmas can make life so much easier. With advanced washing cycles, water-saving technologies, and faster drying times, doing laundry becomes less of a chore, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities. Plus, it's an investment that will pay off all year long.
 
Karaoke Set. What’s a Filipino Christmas without karaoke? Bring the fun to your holiday parties with a new karaoke set. It’s the perfect gift for yourself and for everyone in the family who loves belting out their favorite Christmas songs and tunes. With top-notch audio quality and fun features like wireless microphones and built-in song libraries, your home will be the center of every Christmas gathering.
 

Exciting Deals this Holiday Season!
This year, you don’t have to settle for “pwede na” when it comes to rewarding yourself. With Home Credit’s upcoming Installment Festival, you can get 0% interest deals on a wide range of must-have items—from the latest gadgets to home appliances. It’s the perfect way to get what you truly want without the stress of paying for it all at once.

Ready to complete your holiday shopping? Keep an eye out for our exclusive deals and make this holiday season one to remember! Whether you want to upgrade your technology or refresh your home, Home Credit has the best deals to make this Christmas extra special for you and your loved ones. 

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the Home Credit App on Google Play or App Store to learn more about the latest promos or browse through Shoppingmall.ph.
 
Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

About Home Credit

Home Credit Philippines is the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, providing access to credit through fast, convenient, and affordable financing in more than 15,000 partner stores nationwide. The brand offers a wide range of products from smartphones and laptops, home appliances and furniture, bicycles, and motorcycle accessories to electronics and hardware, sports equipment, and many more – offered at low or 0% interest rates in easy monthly installments. 

 

In its 11th year in the Philippines, Home Credit has served closeto 11 million Filipinos. Beyond installment financing and related insurance services, Home Credit also offers cash loans, a virtual spending limit named Qwarta, and a credit card for its existing qualified customers. With the My Home Credit app, Filipino customers are just a click away from getting the products they want for an elevated lifestyle.

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.  

Mang Inasal treats customers to FREE Palabok this Ihaw Fest

“With the Christmas season approaching, we want our Ihaw Fest to kick off special gatherings among families, friends, and colleagues. We hope our Family Fiesta, paired with free Palabok, will make every celebration extra special.” ~Mike V. Castro, Mang Inasal President

Mang Inasal is celebrating the ongoing Ihaw Fest by giving away two Palabok Solos with the purchase of a Family Fiesta bundle from October 16 to 31, available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

This special offer is part of a nationwide celebration that has left customers delighted with free gifts. Earlier this month, the first two weeks included free Extra Creamy Halo-Halo, and customers can now get two free Palabok Solos in the third and fourth weeks.

The Mang Inasal Family Fiesta comes in four delicious variations: All Chicken (Paa or Pecho), All Pork (Pork BBQ and Liempo), Chicken and Pork BBQ, and Chicken and Liempo—all served on a bed of Java Rice and suitable for four to six people. Each bundle also includes six refreshing beverages.

The Fiesta lineup also includes affordable party platters such as the Solo Fiesta—an all-in-one bilao of Ihaw-Sarap favorites; the Buddy Fiesta for two to three diners; and the Palabok Party Size, which can accommodate up to ten people.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Manila Water Foundation and partners highlight the benefits of handwashing for Global Handwashing Day

On Global Handwashing Day itself, Manila Water Foundation and PHILUSA Corporation, held an event at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City with Barangay Urban Farmers, Solid Waste Management Workers and TODA members of Barangay Greater Lagro and Barangay Fairview.

Manila Water Foundation, Manila Water Company's social development arm, recently organized two onsite events to commemorate Global Handwashing Day (GHD). The first event was a much-anticipated celebration in San Juan City, and the GHD itself was held at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City.

San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, the San Juan City Council, and San Juan City Representative Bel Zamora hosted the MWF.  

During the Monday flag ceremony at San Juan City Hall, the Manila Water Foundation and P&G Safeguard presented donations to the City Health Department. MWF donated three WASHups! Handwashing stations were set up, and P&G Safeguard donated boxes of liquid hand soap to the city's health programs. 

A SAFEWASH in Families and Communities health talk was also held to encourage barangay health workers to promote hand hygiene in their families and city. 

On Global Handwashing Day, the Manila Water Foundation and PHILUSA Corporation held an event at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City. The guests at the Global Handwashing Day celebration included Barangay Urban Farmers, Solid Waste Management Workers, and TODA members from Barangay Greater Lagro and Barangay Fairview. Quezon City 5th District Representative Patrick Michael Vargas was also present to praise the barangay workers' dedication to the district's upkeep and to remind everyone of the importance of proper hand washing for health.

Before the GHD event, PHILUSA Corporation, led by President and General Manager Neogin Evangelista, began the day by planting trees at the Ecopark, demonstrating the company's environmental commitment. The Manila Water Foundation, for its part, reminded community members of the importance of handwashing and the seven steps to proper handwashing. 

In collaboration with the Quezon City Health Department, the Manila Water Foundation observed Global Handwashing Day with students at Early Childhood Care and Development Centers. To reach out to the regions, MWF co-organized Global Handwashing Day events in Davao del Norte with Boracay Water, Laguna Water, and Tagum Water.

Global Handwashing Day, observed annually on October 15, is an advocacy day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of handwashing with soap and water as an easy, effective, and inexpensive way to prevent the spread of communicable diseases and save lives. Manila Water Foundation's Health in Our Hands program, which focuses on schools and communities to promote community health and well-being, continues to lead campaigns for this celebration. 

On Global Handwashing Day in October, and in every day, Manila Water Foundation reminds everyone to keep safe and WASHup, WASHup! 

ONE YEAR STRONG: Vida Yoga Hosts its First Ever Yogafest for its Anniversary!

Vida Yoga offers a wide range of classes designed to meet the diverse needs and preferences of their clients. Their signature classes are the hot yoga classes, which combine the invigorating power of heat with the transformative practice of yoga. 

Vida Yoga celebrated its first anniversary with a vibrant and transformative Yoga-Fest & Wellness Day at its BGC studio. This milestone celebration was a huge success, bringing together both long-time members and new faces for a day full of energy, wellness, and community spirit. And since it opened last year it has been a transformative experience focused on self-discovery and mindful living, with its banner theme "Eat, Yoga, Love: A Cityscape Journey with Vida."

The event demonstrated how far Vida Yoga has come since its debut last year. Attendees were treated to a full schedule of complimentary yoga classes designed for all skill levels, ranging from invigorating morning flows to relaxing evening meditation. The diverse lineup allowed participants to sample the breadth of Vida Yoga's offerings, which cater to everyone from experienced practitioners to first-time yogis. The excitement and positive energy in each session exemplified Vida's mission to promote holistic well-being and connection through movement.

A DAY OF COMMUNITY AND TRANSFORMATION

Bespoke Curated Yoga classes: Guests enjoyed a packed schedule of free yoga sessions, designed for all levels that kept the energy high throughout the day. From invigorating morning flows to relaxing evening meditations. Each class offered a specially curated yoga session leaving attendees feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

The Biohacking Wellness Area proved to be a resounding success, drawing participants to its standout offerings, including cold plunge sessions, sauna therapy, and Exercise With Oxygen Therapy (EWOT). These innovative wellness practices were designed to elevate both physical and mental well-being, and the synergy between them created a truly unique and enriching experience. This made the day more than just a celebration—it became a holistic journey that deeply resonated with everyone involved.

The EWOT (exercise with oxygen therapy) increases oxygen levels, improving physical performance, speeding up recovery, and promoting overall vitality, making it ideal for those looking to improve their wellness routine. The Oasis Sauna Therapy combines heat therapy and relaxation to detoxify the body, improve cardiovascular health, and induce deep relaxation. Finally, the Cold Plunge Session stimulates circulation, reduces inflammation, and promotes faster recovery, whereas Oasis Sauna Therapy detoxifies the body, improves cardiovascular health, and induces deep relaxation.

Vida Yoga proudly hosted a thoughtfully curated Mindful Market, where attendees eagerly explored a diverse range of organic and health-conscious products that seamlessly fit into a holistic lifestyle. The market was a resounding success, with attendees thoroughly enjoying the natural offerings, which perfectly complemented the vibrant energy of the community and enhanced the overall experience of Vida Yoga's first anniversary.

Vida Yoga's first anniversary celebration provides an opportunity for the community to gather, relax, and experience the transformative power of yoga and wellness in a vibrant, supportive environment. This event has something for everyone, whether you're an experienced yogi or just getting started.

If you’re unable to attend, don’t worry! Yoga enthusiasts and those looking to explore the practice of yoga can still inquire about Vida Yoga's anniversary promotions and special class packages by contacting the studio directly! You can checkout ongoing promos published in Vida Yoga’s Website.

Unmatched Excellence in Wellness: Vida Yoga's Globally Trained Teachers Lead Transformative Experiences

Vida Yoga is dedicated to fostering well-being and mindfulness through a variety of holistic practices, including Hot Infrared Yoga led by internationally trained and seasoned instructors. Vida Yoga is also a home to visiting coaches from around the world - offering expert guidance in yoga, Pilates, and more. The studio hosts over 30 weekly classes across its locations in Alabang, BGC, and soon in Rockwell, catering to all skill levels. Over the past year, Vida Yoga has grown into a thriving community hub where individuals can transform, rejuvenate, and deepen their connection to body, mind, and spirit.

To learn more about Vida Yoga, or to book for an appointment, visit www.vidayoga.ph. You can also send a message on Instagram or email vidayogaph@gmail.com for more information.

John Valdevieso from UPLB is the first Philippine representative in the prestigious global Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program

"Many people think that veterinary is all about clinical practice for companion animals, but little do they know that it concerns the food we eat and the public health in general. As my focus of study is child nutrition, I was engaged mainly in milk production. I spent most of my time in the commercial dairy farm where they had rotating porters. We would enroll 60 cows each time, and every cow will have 3 minutes milking time which is very efficient compared to the normal standard. This is the kind of technology I wish we could bring to our local farmers. I came from the province, so my upbringing was: go to school, find a job, then help your community. This experience opened my eyes to the many opportunities around the world, and helped me realize that I can help as many people if I expose myself to different ways of learning.” ~John Valdevieso, a 22-year-old BS Veterinary Studies Student at the University of the Philippines Los Baños

John Valdevieso is the first representative from the Philippines to partake in the prestigious Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program. His advocacy is focused on food security and child nutrition.

Everyone wants to attend an Ivy League school. After all, it represents a high level of academic achievement, a drive for excellence, and a desire for the best in life.

However, given that it has the most selective schools in the world, with an average acceptance rate of only 3%, many people continue to dream of attending an Ivy League school.

John Valdevieso, a 22-year-old BS Veterinary Studies Student at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, does not share this belief. John participated in the Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program, which lasted 12 weeks, at Cornell University in New York State. 

The program, founded in 1989 in the United States with the goal of exposing veterinary students in their fourth year of veterinary school to biomedical research and career opportunities in academia, government, and related industries, was expanded in 2023 as a pilot to include the Philippines and Japan in their country roster. In more than 30 years, the program has served over 5,000 students from North America, Europe, and Asia.

John is the first representative from the Philippines to participate in the prestigious program, and he brings his advocacy for food security and child nutrition with him. 

As part of the program, scholars conduct hypothesis research projects in collaboration with their assigned mentor and present them at the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium (NVSS). The NVSS is a premier annual scientific colloquium that highlights the research accomplishments of veterinary students completing summer research internships. Aside from poster presentations, the symposium features keynote speaker sessions on scientific and career topics. 

In addition to learning new skills, John was introduced to a world of new possibilities while attending Cornell University. 

Dr. Melvin Cassion, Customer Experience Lead for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, expressed his appreciation for the brand's first global scholar grant. 

"We're deeply honored to have brought one of our Iskolar ng Bayan to such a prestigious university like Cornell. As Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health continues to strengthen the practice of veterinary medicine in the country, we hope to bring more Filipino scholars abroad to expand their learning and introduce to us new and advanced technologies that will help develop the human and animal health correlation." ~Dr. Melvin Cassion, Customer Experience Lead for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines

Boehringer Veterinary Program Scholar, John Valdevieso from UP Los Banos meets with Dr. Sukje Sung, Head of Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.

This scholar program is just one of Boehringer Ingelheim's initiatives to help veterinarians improve access to veterinary care. Educational resource and training programs are held on a regular basis, including the recent 8th Companion Animals Technical Forum. In 2023, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines also launched the Animal Health Hub, a free online learning portal designed to provide veterinarians with easy access to a variety of learning modules. 

To know more about Boehringer Ingelheim's The Veterinary Scholars Program, visit its official website: veterinaryscholars.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Boehringer Ingelheim 

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry’s top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. More than 53,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable tomorrow. 

Boehringer Ingelheim - Animal Health business  

Boehringer Ingelheim provides innovation for preventing and treating diseases in animals. The company offers a wide range of vaccines, parasite-control products, and medicines for pets, horses, and livestock to veterinarians, animal owners, farmers, and governments. As a leader in animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim values that the health of humans and animals is deeply connected and strives to make a difference for people, animals, and society.  

Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com