Event | Cebu Pacific, Scholars of Sustenance Partner to Combat Food Waste

Ang CEB at SOS ay pumirma sa isang Memorandum of Agreement, na ginagawang pormal ang isang partnership na naglalayong bawasan ang basura ng pagkain at suportahan ang mga komunidad na nangangailangan. [Mula kaliwa pakanan: Mac Edsel Florendo, SOS Food Rescue Supervisor, at Lei Apostol, CEB VP para sa Customer Service Operations]

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, has struck a partnership with Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Philippines to reduce food wastage and support underprivileged communities nationwide.

Under the signed memorandum of agreement (MOA), CEB will donate surplus food from its operations to SOS. This initiative is designed to provide essential food supplies to social service organizations and vulnerable communities, underscoring the airline’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

"This collaboration shows our dedication to community care," said Lei Apostol, CEB vice president for Customer Service Operations. “By partnering with SOS Philippines, we are not only addressing food waste but also making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most."

Before its partnership with SOS, CEB had a longstanding history of donating food to underserved communities. Since 2017, it has been providing pastries to the Pangarap Foundation, an organization focused on improving youth welfare. The airline’s collaboration with SOS, a leading non-profit in food rescue efforts, will broaden CEB's impact and assist even more individuals in need.

"We're excited to partner with Cebu Pacific," said Mac Edsel Florendo, Food Rescue Supervisor of SOS Philippines. "Their support boosts our ability to rescue surplus food and provide it to those in need. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against food waste and hunger."

CEB is the first and only airline partner of SOS in Southeast Asia. They aim to promote the importance of managing surplus food effectively, aligning with global sustainability goals and setting a positive example for the aviation industry.

Event | Universal Cultural Foundation Inc. (UCFI) Supports Effort to Address Malnutrition

Nourishing smiles: Students of Cubacub Elementary School enjoying a hearty meal during UCFI and  Sacred Heart School - Ateneo de Cebu’s feeding initiative.

Cebu, Philippines – Universal Cultural Foundation Inc. (UCFI), the foundation under Universal Hotels and Resorts Inc. (UHRI) which owns and operates NUSTAR Resort Cebu, in partnership with Sacred Heart School Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC), has fulfilled its commitment to uplift the nutritional needs of malnourished students in three public elementary schools in Mandaue City.

UCFI donated P2 million to SHS-AdC on September 22, 2023 to carry out the Blue Plate Project, a feeding program initiated by the private institution in 2015 with Cubacub Elementary School as pilot beneficiary. SHS-AdC later expanded the feeding program to the public elementary schools of Cubacub, Casili, and Pagsabungan.


Dedicated UCFI volunteers during the feeding program.

UCFI actively supports endeavors geared towards the restoration of cultural heritage and support programs on education, environment, and health.

“We value the communities we are part of and we drive opportunities that promote inclusion and betterment, be it through education or medical projects. The partnership with Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu is one of the many projects we are looking to establish here in Cebu and around the Philippines,” UCFI Director Katrina Mae de Jesus said.

Cubacub, Casili, and Pagsabungan elementary schools were the recipients of the donation of UCFI. The sum covered the cost of the daily feeding of the children, the construction of kitchens in the schools, and the provision of kitchen items and utensils. The kitchens were manned by parent-volunteers who had been trained on proper hygiene and food preparation and handling.

UCFI attended the blessing of the newly constructed kitchens, as well as the culmination program of the Blue Plate Project on May 17, 2024.

Preschool and grade school pupils classified as wasted (low weight for height) and severely wasted (severe acute malnutrition) had access to nutritional food every school day for at least 120 days. Studies have shown that malnutrition hurts the health, school attendance, and academic performance of students.

The Blue Plate Project aims to set up a supportive learning environment that fosters the holistic development of the children of the beneficiary schools.

Aside from the Blue Plate Project, UCFI partnered with the Emmanuel and Jinkee’s Pacquiao Heart Foundation for the Feed The Poor Project in General Santos City in December 2023. It also helped renovate health and educational facilities in the Municipality of Opol, Misamis Oriental and in General Santos City in 2023 and 2024. Also in 2023, UCFI also made a donation to support artistic and cultural endeavors of the Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod in Cebu City, Cebu City Cultural and Historical Affairs Foundation Inc., and the Asian Cultural Council of Philippines Foundation Inc.

In May 2024, UCFI also donated to the Cebu City Cultural and Historical Affairs Foundation Inc. to restore and preserve heritage buildings, monuments, and sites in Cebu City. To date, UCFI

has donated more than P10 million to various causes around the country.

Event | Transforming Vehicle Oil Changes into the Highlight of Your Day with Shell

Shell executives mark new developments in vehicle care and the “All Good” experience with valued
partners and motorists. [From L-R] Head of Davao Operations of PLDT, Melvin Lacuna; Southern Islands
District Manager of Shell Pilipinas Corporation, Llex Denia; General Manager for Transport Operations
(Mindanao) of Grab Philippines, Wilena Ng; Fleet Solutions Head of Shell Pilipinas Corporation, Chris Alli;
Regional Director - Region XI of TESDA, RD. Asahry Bantu;Vice President & General Manager for Mobility of
Shell Pilipinas Corporation, Mike Ramolete; Executive Director of Don Bosco Technical Institute, Fr. Dindo
Vitug; Commercial Unit Director for Southeast Mindanao of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc., Jeff
Lazarte; Country Business Manager for Non-Fuels Retail of Shell Pilipinas Corporation, Jolo Valdez, andFleet
Management Department Head of Davao Light & Power Company, Inc., Henry Lopez II. 

For many motorists, even among the most dedicated car enthusiasts, keeping up with 
regular vehicle oil changes can feel like a hassle. Between busy schedules, driving to the casa or the shop, and the inconvenience of sitting or even standing around and waiting for the service to be done, vehicle oil changes often get pushed to the back burner.

This is where convenience becomes key. Shell, with its expansive network of over 500 Shell Helix Oilchange+ facilities nationwide offering vehicle care services, aims to make car maintenance as effortless as possible. This convenience extends to businesses with fleets of vehicles as Shell understands the importance of minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Businesses can streamline their vehicle maintenance, ensuring their vehicles are always in top condition with minimal disruption to their operations.

Through the Shell Fleet Card, businesses can consolidate all vehicle-related expenses into a single, easy-to-manage account, eliminating the need for multiple payments and cumbersome paperwork. This streamlined approach allows fleet managers to focus on their core operations, confident that their vehicles are in good hands.

No more driving through traffic to get to a casa or wasting precious time doing trial and error to find a reliable talyer. Shell Helix Oilchange+, which has long been popular with long time vehicle owners and fleet operators alike, was presented to the media at the “It’s All Good” media launch on July 18, at the Davao Convention and Trade Center, Davao City. The event also showcased Shell Advance MotoCare Express, the oil change service for motorcycles. In attendance at the event were Car Clubs, motoring enthusiasts, content creators and Shell fleet card customers who gathered to learn more about the latest
developments on vehicle care guaranteeing that their oil change experience is all good with Shell.

“At Shell, convenience meets quality. Your oil change service is performed by our key mechanics who get training and certification from Don Bosco and TESDA, ensuring your vehicle receives top-notch care. You can be assured that only quality Shell lubricants and genuine consumables are used,” shared Jolo Valdez, Country Business Manager for Non Fuels Retail, Shell Pilipinas Corporation.

Why Timely Oil Changes Matter

Regular oil changes are vital for maintaining your vehicle's health. Engine oil acts as the lifeblood of your car, reducing friction, cleaning components, and preventing overheating. For most four-wheeled vehicles, a change is recommended every 2-3 months a year.

Motorcycles require even more frequent changes, typically once a month. Skipping these oil changes can lead to a buildup of sludge and debris, eventually causing engine damage and costly repairs. A motorbike used as a service vehicle will easily accumulate significant mileage in 30 days, so a professional rider who neglects an oil change that long, could end up missing 2 or even 3 oil changes, which in turn will lead to untimely and costly repairs, or worse the need to replace the motorbike sooner than planned.

This is why Shell Advance MotoCare Express has expanded motocare – by providing bikers more stations close by for greater accessibility and convenience. “More Shell Advance Motocare Express locations means that riders can get their quick oil change right when they need it, wherever they may be, and all within the time it takes to sit down for a quick snack and a cup of coffee. As we introduce Shell Advance MotoCare Express, we’re also offering the oil change service with zero labor charges making it more
affordable for our Filipino riders.” says Shannen Lee, Country Lubricants and Vehicle Care Category Manager, Shell Pilipinas Corporation.

Benefits Beyond Convenience

The benefits of Shell Helix Oilchange+ extend far beyond convenience. While you relax in a comfortable air-conditioned lounge, you can watch the entire service unfold, ensuring transparency and eliminating the worry of surprise services and hidden costs. Additionally, every oil change package comes with bonus rewards through the Shell Go+ program, allowing you to earn points which you can use to pay for lubricants, fuels, and convert at partner establishments.

Beyond that, every oil change that’s all good, is also able to do good. Each oil change also helps fund automotive servicing scholarships through the Shell Helix Oilchange+ scholarship program. In line with this, Shell recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with fleet partner Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CBBPI).

The MOU supports the Shell Helix Oilchange+ Scholarship program including apprenticeship and internship opportunities for graduates of the scholarship program.

Finally, a name to the long-trusted service. 

“Shell and CCBPI both recognize the role of education and skills training in empowering lives, as it provides the tools and opportunities for poverty reduction, livelihood generation, and sustainable development for communities where our companies operate.” Shared Mike Ramolete, Vice President and General Manager for Mobility, Shell Pilipinas Corporation.

So, the next time your car or motorbike is due for an oil change, don't take a chance on its health. Visit your nearest Shell Mobility station and experience the convenience and quality of Shell Helix change+ and Shell Advance MotoCare Express. Remember, timely oil changes are a small investment that goes a long way in ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and safely for years to come.

Plan your Shell visit and enjoy a combination of rewards and promos! Shell Go+ users will earn points for every visit and will also be able to avail of the Shell Go+ 10% discount on lubricants. On top of that, Shell also shared exciting promos coming this August where they will be giving limited edition Shell merchandise with every oil change.

Event | Discovering the Easter Safari Adventure in Samal

Island Garden City of Samal, Philippines | March 31, 2024: Discovery Samal, a haven of unique and unforgettable experiences, recently hosted an Easter Safari Adventure last March 31, 2024. This Easter Sunday celebration was an event that captivated families and their kids with a variety of activities and entertainment, including a safari adventure ambiance and the much-awaited Easter Egg Hunt at the beachfront. These unique and fun elements were set against the serene view of Discovery Samal, creating cherished memories for families. 

As part of Discovery Samal’s Happy Summer campaign, the Easter Safari Adventure was a unique experience that left guests brimming with anticipation. From the moment they arrived at the Resort, they were immersed in a safari adventure, complete with life-sized displays of safari animals and a plethora of activities such as the jungle inflatable from PopKarts Davao and a safari-themed photo booth from Funpix Davao to capture their safari adventure moment. 

Hosted by our charming safari leader in safari costume, the event started with warmth and enthusiasm, welcoming kids and their families to an afternoon of joy and celebration. Concurrently, the buffet snacks opened, providing everyone with a delectable array of treats to fuel their adventure.

One of the standout moments of the Easter Safari Adventure was the dance performance by Discovery Samal’s beloved mascots, Coco and Pearl, who were dressed in safari costumes along with their safari friends. Both children and adults had the chance to meet and interact with these endearing characters.

The excitement continued with parlor games, which created a competitive and friendly atmosphere for the kids. The ‘Bring Me’ and Trivia Game winners were given mini coco or pearl bears as prizes for their swift thinking and fast reflexes. The entertainment continued with a colorful and fun bubble and dance performance by Ziastep. Children were in awe as the colorful bubbles filled the air. They also got to experience being inside a massive bubble as they wore their best smiles.

The event's main highlight was the thrilling Easter Egg Hunt at the beachfront. As the sun set on the horizon, an egg-hunting area was prepared for the kids as they started to quest to find the special eggs. But the hunt didn’t end there. As a surprise, more eggs were scattered around the activity area for kids to find, adding an unexpected twist to the adventure. This element of surprise added an extra layer of excitement to the event.

As the event dwindled and everyone was busy counting and opening their Easter eggs, a moment of anticipation filled the air as they awaited the announcement of winners. The top 5 best in costumes, who thoroughly embodied their costumes - Mila, Sam, Saphire, Summer and Megumi, were able to take home unique loot bags from Samal Shores Residenza, and Discovery Samal’s Coco and Pearl Bears. A roll call was announced to check who hunted the most eggs, and fourteen kids received a loot bag from Discovery Samal and Samal Shores Residenza. Among the hundreds of eggs scattered around the area were hidden special eggs with corresponding prizes. Samal Shores Residenza hid five large Easter eggs, and five lucky egg hunters, who had an eye for extraordinary things, received huge loot bags filled with exciting giveaways. Five winners also received the cuddly Coco or Pearl Bears plus a Gift Certificate of Php 1,500 Credit for Food and Beverage. And for the most awaited prize, the person who was able to take home the Grand Prize, a Coco Bear, a Happy Summer tote bag filled with goodies and a Gift Certificate of an Overnight Stay in a Junior Suite was Sky, who was able to spot and take the Discovery Golden Egg.

As the event ended, guests were treated to an adorable bunny-shaped loot bag filled with goodies, marking the end of a truly unforgettable Easter Safari Adventure at Discovery Samal. We invite you and your family to join us for our upcoming events and experience the magic of Discovery Samal for yourselves. 

For more information on the Happy Summer Campaign and to make reservations, visit www.discoverysamal.com or contact us at +63 84 308 2998.


Event | Sun Life Cycle Ph Shines Bright With More Than A Thousand Cyclists at Cavite

CITY OF IMUS, Cavite (April 8, 2024) – Living a fit and healthy lifestyle wihtin reach as the Sun Life Cycle Ph opens the wide roads of Imus exclusively for families & friends to enjoy each other’s company and share their love for the cycling on yesterday, April 7, 2024.

Every year, more and more attendees gather as young as one year old with Sun Life ambassadors Piolo Pascual and Raven Rigor in the lead. The event will feature a 60km individual and corporate ride, a 45km ride, and a 30km ride. Kid-friendly biking paths will also give a chance for families to bond with 500-meter kids’ solo rides and even rides with parents.

Imus City once again hosted the event. City Mayor Alex Advincula said of the event, “Cavite will always be a home for families to enjoy events and activities that encourage a healthier and happier quality of life.” The Mayor added, “For five years, we have partnered with Sun Life and IRONMAN Philippines towards this goal. We are excited for another day of fun which could also inspire the community in a positive way.”

This year, Sun Life will continue to champion this goal. Sun Life continues to be an advocate of health and wellness of the community with efforts that ensure accessible healthcare within barangays and remote areas, as well as supporting events that not only challenges individual athletes and hobbyists, but also to encourage the local community towards an active and quality lifestyle. Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience & Marketing Officer of Sun Life said of the event, “Through the years, Cycle PH has established a distinct identity in the local cycling scene: a family and beginner- friendly event that aims to infuse the love of physical movement as a way of prioritizing one’s health and well-being. We look forward to new memories we can create together on the road this Sunday.”


With the support of Sun Life, the organizers are able to hold the Tres Ocho campaign which encourages women who would otherwise not have thought of joining a cycling activity by opening registration for 38 pesos during the International Women’s Day. Princes Galura, Regional Director of the IRONMAN Philippines said of this effort, “Ultimately, we have the positive impact of our events for the community in mind. Along with the City of Imus and the title sponsor Sun Life, we hope to promote inclusivity and encourage women participation in sporting events.” This year would be largest number of female participation of the Cycle Ph events.