Event | 1 Million Trees for Cebu: Aboitiz, GCash Team Up

Five-year GForest partnership will help restore 1,200 hectares in Balamban as part of Aboitiz Foundation’s 40-year nature-based climate action commitment. From Left to Right: Aboitiz Foundation Impact Lead for Climate Action Fred Dalumpines, Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Mynt Head of Corporate Sustainability and Communications Michelle Fernandez, and Mynt Impact Innovations Product Manager Luis Arboleda, come together to strengthen their shared commitment to climate action in Cebu.

Aboitiz Foundation and GCash are joining forces to restore 1,200 hectares of forest and coastal areas in Balamban, Cebu through the CarbonPH x GForest Project, a five-year initiative that aims to plant and grow one million trees while restoring ecosystems, supporting communities, and strengthening climate resilience.

The partnership brings together two long-term environmental commitments: CarbonPH and GCash GForest. CarbonPH is Aboitiz Foundation’s nature-based climate action program focused on reforestation, watershed management, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration. It represents a 40-year commitment to protect and restore forest landscapes in Cebu, with a long-term ambition covering over 40,000 to 71,000 hectares, primarily within the Central Cebu Protected Landscape (CCPL) and surrounding areas.

Building on the 4.9 million actual trees already planted through GForest, this partnership will add 1 million more actual trees, bringing GCash closer to its goal of 10 million actual trees by 2030. The five-year initiative will help restore biodiversity, support local communities, and strengthen climate resilience.

GCash GForest, meanwhile, uses technology to make it easier for millions of Filipinos to take part in caring for the environment. Through the GCash app, users can earn green energy points from everyday digital activities and use them to support tree-planting initiatives that also help local communities earn a living. With the support of its partners, GForest turns users’ digital actions into real and meaningful environmental impact.

By bringing CarbonPH and GForest together, the partnership goes beyond planting trees. It combines on-the-ground nature-based solutions with digital participation to support the long-term restoration and protection of ecosystems while addressing interconnected challenges such as forest degradation, biodiversity loss, water security, and climate resilience.

Members of the Singsing Tilapia Growers and Farmers Association are preparing to help kick off CarbonPH in Balamban, Cebu, following an orientation by Baltazar Tribunalo, head of the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, on nursery establishment and project convergence—equipping local farmers to take an active role in the program’s long-term forest restoration efforts.

“CarbonPH is about looking beyond the number of trees we plant. It is about restoring entire ecosystems and making sure they continue to provide value to people and communities for generations,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, President of Aboitiz Foundation. “Our partnership with GCash GForest brings together the strengths of the private sector, technology, and communities to turn this long-term commitment into action. One million trees in Balamban is an important step toward our larger ambition of restoring Cebu’s forests, watersheds, and biodiversity.”

Over five years, the CarbonPH x GForest Project will establish a mix of agroforestry, indigenous and native trees, and mangroves across identified areas in Balamban. The approach recognizes that restoring landscapes requires more than planting trees; it requires selecting interventions that respond to the needs of the environment and the communities that depend on it.

For Michelle Fernandez, Mynt Head of Corporate Sustainability and Communications, the partnership reflects a shared vision of turning everyday actions into meaningful, lasting impact for people and the planet.

“We believe sustainability becomes more meaningful when it is made part of the everyday actions people already take, rather than something that requires them to change their routines. GForest puts this principle into practice by transforming the green energy points earned by GCash users into tangible environmental outcomes through tree planting and ecosystem restoration with Aboitiz Foundation. In this way, technology becomes more than an enabler of convenience. It becomes a bridge between everyday behavior, collective action, and long-term environmental stewardship,” Fernandez said.

Beyond planting trees

The CarbonPH x GForest Project takes a broader approach to restoration by matching its interventions with the needs of the landscape and the communities that rely on it.

Agroforestry will combine tree-growing with opportunities to support sustainable livelihoods. Indigenous and native trees will help restore forest ecosystems and biodiversity, while mangrove rehabilitation will contribute to healthier coastal ecosystems and strengthen natural protection against climate-related risks.

Local communities will be key partners throughout the project, from planting and maintenance to the long-term protection of restored areas. This community-based approach aims to help ensure that restoration efforts are sustained and that the benefits of healthier ecosystems are shared by the people who depend on them.

These efforts contribute to CarbonPH’s broader goal of creating healthier and more resilient landscapes that can improve water security, protect biodiversity, capture carbon, strengthen climate resilience, and support sustainable livelihoods.

Through the partnership, Aboitiz Foundation and GCash aim to showcase how businesses, technology, communities, and nature can work together to turn long-term climate commitments into measurable and lasting action.

The one million trees across 1,200 hectares in Balamban represent an important part of CarbonPH’s larger journey, a 40-year commitment to restoring Cebu’s natural landscapes and helping build a more climate-resilient future for generations to come.

Event | Global AI Expert Tim Santos to Lead Strategic AI Masterclass for Philippine Business Leaders

MAKATI, PHILIPPINES — As businesses worldwide pivot toward artificial intelligence, a critical

gap remains between strategic interest and operational execution. To address this, Geeks On A

Beach (GOAB) and Symph.co are proud to announce the AI Implementation Masterclass:

Bridging the Gap from Strategy to Execution, taking place on May 22, 2026, in Makati.

Global Expertise, Local Impact

The masterclass will be led by Tim Santos, a veteran AI practitioner operating at the frontier of the

industry. Based in London, Santos serves as a Director of Product at Graphcore—a global pioneer

in AI hardware and a key innovator in the chip industry. As a UK-based Filipino and lead author of

the Philippine AI Report 2025, Tim is bringing his experience from the heart of the global AI market

to help the Philippines lead in AI adoption.

"A Silicon Valley playbook won’t just copy-paste to the Philippines," says Santos. "We’re taking the

ground truth from 175 Philippine organizations and translating global best practices into local

nuances. I’m here to help our local talent get maximum performance out of this technology and

build an ecosystem that actually works for the Philippines."

Moving Past the Hype

Unlike typical seminars that focus on the theoretical "what" of AI, this five-hour intensive workshop

focuses on the "how." Attendees will move through a structured three-phase sprint:

● The Local Landscape: Analyzing data-driven insights from the Philippine AI Report 2025.

● Live Strategy Sprint: Using Large Language Models (LLMs) and expert frameworks to

identify high-ROI use cases.

● The 30-60-90 Day Roadmap: Building a ready-to-use, executable action plan.

The event is open to all who are serious about implementing practical AI solutions. Santos strongly

encourages the attendance of "Strategic Duos"—pairs consisting of a Decision Maker

(CEO/Founder/Business Leader) and an Executor (CTO/Product/Tech Lead)—to ensure plans are

both business-aligned and technically sound. The venue partner for this event is Zero-Ten Park, a

Japanese-founded, premier co-working space in Makati.

Event Details

● Date: Friday, May 22, 2026

● Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Masterclass) | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Private Advisory, by

application only)

● Venue: Zero-Ten Park Manila Makati, 11F, Frabelle Business Center, 111 Rada, Legazpi

Village, Makati City

● Registration: https://luma.com/GOABS17 or email hello@geeksonabeach.com.

Exclusive Strategic Advisory

Following the workshop, Tim Santos will offer two 90-minute 1-on-1 private consultations for

leadership teams. These sessions allow companies to stress-test their AI roadmaps and get direct

answers from an international AI expert, ensuring strategies align with global best practices while

saving months of trial and error.

● Availability: Limited to two companies (up to two leaders per session).

● How to Apply: Application details are available on the main workshop registration page.

Event | Aria Hotel and Residences Unveils Its Distinctive Brand of Hospitality

 

A Gentle Harmony Unfolds

Nestled within an iconic structure that reflects the evolving skyline of Davao City, Aria Hotel and Residences presents a refined expression of contemporary elegance. Ideally positioned within this dynamic urban center, the property affords guests seamless access to the city’s business districts and cultural attractions, offering both convenience and distinction in equal measure.

 

Guests are welcomed into the expansive lobby spaces, which boast a seamless blend of sleek design. The ground flood is dedicated to receiving guests upon arrival. The lobby on the third floor is bathed in natural light streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, where guests are assisted with check-in and check-out.

 

The hotel will feature 174 meticulously designed guestrooms, each conceived as a sanctuary of comfort and style. Thoughtfully appointed with convenient amenities, intuitive design, and elegant furnishings, every space is crafted to deliver a restful and elevated guest experience. In its current soft opening phase, the hotel introduces a curated selection of approximately 72 rooms, featuring 68 Deluxe Rooms and 4 Aria Suites, offering guests an exclusive preview of its commitment to excellence.

 

Culinary experiences are presently anchored by two distinctive dining outlets: Rhapsody Asian Fusion, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, and Cadenza Bar, its lobby bar. Each delivers a refined yet approachable interpretation of global and local flavors, with additional venues to be unveiled in due course.

 

Rhapsody Asian Fusion – a dynamic culinary destination that invites guests to explore the rich emotional tapestry of Asian gastronomy. Each dish unfolds as part of a larger narrative, capturing the depth, heritage, and evolution of flavors across the region. Guided by a vision that honors and elevates Asian influences, the restaurant presents a thoughtfully curated selection of refined dishes, available throughout the day for a truly immersive dining experience.

 

Cadenza Bar – an exhilarating interplay of artistry and spontaneity, where each visit unfolds like a solo performance. Moments of excitement and drama are expressed in every sip and bite, creating an atmosphere that is both dynamic and refined. Cadenza Bar offers a curated selection of elevated bar fare alongside a distinctive repertoire of handcrafted beverages.

 

Aria Hotels and Residences is poised to emerge as a distinguished culinary destination, with plans for five exceptional dining concepts ranging from relaxed gourmet fare to elevated luxury dining, culminating in a signature sky bar experience set against panoramic city views.

 

For meetings and events, the property currently offers three elegantly appointed venues, designed to accommodate intimate gatherings and corporate functions with precision and style. For larger occasions, the Soprano Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 260 guests. These offerings will expand to six versatile function rooms, catering to a wide spectrum of events and occasions.

 

Wellness and recreation are thoughtfully integrated into the guest experience. A newly renovated fitness center, located on the sixth floor, provides a modern environment for health and vitality, complemented by a dedicated children’s playroom designed to engage younger guests. At the pinnacle of the property, the 33^rd level reveals an awe-inspiring swimming pool, where guests can unwind while taking in sweeping panoramic views of the city.

“As a locally rooted brand, we take great pride in showcasing the richness of our culture, the strength of our people, and the spirit of our community,” says Colin Tan, General Manager. “We are committed not only to delivering exceptional hospitality but also to creating opportunities, supporting local talent, and contributing meaningfully to the destination we call home.”

 

The essence of Aria is deeply rooted in its namesake. An aria is a musical term in opera, describing a moment when a solo vocalist performs accompanied by an orchestra, the music rising and falling in harmony with the singer’s emotion and expression. At Aria Hotel and Residences, the property embodies the orchestra, whiles guests represent both the performer and the audience. In this interplay of service, experience, and emotion, a seamless harmony is created, with each stay unfolding like a unique composition, where every moment contributes to a memorable journey.

 

Aria Hotel and Residences stands as a testament to deliberate elegance, where every detail is considered, every experience elevated, and every stay defined by quiet sophistication, embodying the promise of “Life in Harmony.”

Event | Globe Empowers Communities in Western Mindanao; promotes digital inclusion and environmental protection

Globe continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating a #GlobeOfGood through a series of impactful initiatives across Western Mindanao, aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities, promoting digital inclusion, and protecting the environment.

In partnership with Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Globe launched Digital Horizons for Out-of-School Youth (OSY), a strategic program designed to equip young Filipinos with essential digital literacy, athletic development, and leadership skills. By harnessing WMSU’s local expertise, the initiative delivers a sustainable and future-focused learning experience that empowers youth to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. A total of 40 OSY and 117 WMSU students, faculty, and staff joined the inaugural Digital Horizons program, marking a strong start to this impactful collaboration.

Globe also activated the GT Coop CAREavan at WMSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Education, engaging over 150 students, faculty, and staff in a day of learning and giving. The event featured the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), which covered topics such as Digital Conduct, Cyberbullying, and Telco 101. A symbolic turn-over of shoes and whistles further emphasized Globe’s commitment to inclusive education and youth empowerment.

Reinforcing its sustainability mission, Globe volunteers partnered with local fisherfolk and leaders in Misamis Oriental to launch the Coastal Digital Roots initiative. A total of 917 mangrove seedlings were planted in Brgy. Baybay, Alubijid, helping protect the coastal ecosystem and strengthen community resilience against climate change.

“These initiatives reflect Globe’s deeper purpose to extend care, connectivity, and opportunity to every Filipino,” said Aldwin Mahusay, Assistant Director - HR Business Partner for VisMin, at Globe. “Whether it’s empowering youth or restoring our environment, we are committed to building a future where no one is left behind.”

Globe’s efforts in Western Mindanao exemplify how technology, partnerships, and purpose can come together to create lasting impact online and on-ground.

To learn more, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

News | Globe calls for better coordination to address cable clean up in Davao City

Globe expressed its support for the Davao City Government’s ongoing cleanup of overhead cables, being implemented under Ordinance No. 0354-23, also known as the Anti-Spaghetti Wire Ordinance of 2023.

Passed in December 2023, the ordinance aims to improve public safety and urban order by requiring service providers to relocate their installations to designated poles and reduce cable clustering in public spaces. Full implementation began this year.

As the cleanup progresses, Globe shared the challenges that arise from receiving notifications only a few days before scheduled clearing activities—a timeline that makes it difficult for technical teams to adjust and properly inform affected customers.

“We are one with the Davao LGU in working toward safer, more resilient communities,” Adonis Evangelista, Globe Customer Field Services Head for Visayas and Mindanao, said. “At the same time, we hope for better coordination among all stakeholders involved, so that any disruption to essential services—like internet connectivity—can be minimized.”

Globe explained that the clearing operations can impact customers who rely on these services every day.

“We need time to notify our customers when their service may be interrupted, and to set expectations on restoration timelines,” Evangelista added. “While repairs typically take 24 to 48 hours, we will start restoration operations once clearing operations are done.”

Phase 2 of clearing operations is scheduled to commence on June 7, 2025, in the following areas:

●       Bonifacio Street

●       Rizal Street

●       Padre Gomez Street

●       Mabini Street

●       Artiaga Street

●       Faura Street

●       A. Quezon Street

●       Portions of Boulevard

●       Portions of Roxas

Globe emphasized its willingness to work closely with the LGU and all parties involved to reduce the impact on customers and help implement the ordinance more smoothly. The company has also committed to continuing real-time SMS alerts to affected customers and addressing service concerns as quickly as possible.

“This is beyond Globe’s control, but we want our customers to know we’re doing everything we can to manage the situation and restore service quickly,” Evangelista said. “We will continue to collaborate with the LGU and fellow providers to find a more coordinated approach that supports the city’s goals while protecting connectivity for Davao residents.”

Lifestyle | KodeGo Offers Flexible Training to Boost Digital Skills in Filipino Workplaces

KodeGo, 917Ventures’ EduTech startup, is expanding its services to cater more to local businesses looking to strengthen their digital capabilities and skills with the introduction of their new comprehensive suite of training courses.

KodeGo’s Universal Menu comprises a total of 26 training courses designed to meet the diverse needs of medium-to-large enterprises. This includes courses that can take them through soft skills, technical expertise, and career-focused competencies.

“Being part of the Globe Group, we share in the vision of creating a Digital Nation. We see our role in that as drivers and enablers of digital upskilling for all Filipinos," KodeGo Chief Executive Officer Ina Gervasio shared.

She added, “We wanted to build a roster of training courses that will not only upskill Filipinos technically–from basic to intermediate to advanced digital skills–but also equip them with key competencies that will help them better navigate today’s digital landscape.”

KodeGo’s Soft Skills Courses focus on enhancing essential workplace capabilities and equipping employees with foundational skills that will teach them best practices on how to drive team performance. Key topics include:

● Business Writing

● Professional Etiquette in the Workplace

● Essential Skills Training

● Time Management

● Relationship Management

● Stress Management

● Strategic Planning

● Growth Mindset

● Business Communications

● Creativity and Critical Thinking

● Leadership Foundations

On the technical side, KodeGo provides training in areas such as

● Business Analysis

● Project Management

● Data Science, and;

● Maximizing foundational tools, such as Microsoft Excel and MS Word

For businesses aiming to enhance their employees’ career-focused skills, courses cover high-demand areas including:

● Virtual Assistance

● Virtual Bookkeeping

● Full-stack development

● UI/UX design, and;

● Cloud Concepts, Security and Compliance via Amazon Web Services (AWS)

● DevOps and DevSecOps 

 

KodeGo began as a training boot camp that offered live courses, such as Full Stack Web Development to individuals seeking to build new skills. It later diversified its offerings by introducing short courses such as Virtual Assistance and Virtual Bookkeeping, catering to a broader audience.

Earlier this year, KodeGo transitioned to self-paced learning, further expanding its short course lineup to include programs such as Transcribing and Essential Skills before enriching its training menu to cater to the B2B sector.

KodeGo is dedicated to equipping Filipinos with essential digital skills, enabling them to seize growth opportunities and achieve their full potential.

Companies seeking to elevate their teams’ competencies can explore the full Universal Menu and partner with KodeGo for impactful training solutions. Further information is available at https://kodego.ph.

Six reasons why Globe’s all-new Roam Surf global pack is your holiday travel must-have

 

Get the holiday travel experience you deserve with Globe’s all-new Roam Surf global packs, offering more GBs for longer stays abroad, with daily rates at 50% less. 

With these enriched offers, there’s no need to swap SIMs anymore! Enjoy affordable and reliable connectivity during your cross-country trips in any of 120+ destinations worldwide. 

Here are six reasons why the all-new Roam Surf Global Packs should be your ultimate travel companion:

More Affordable Roaming Made Possible

Enjoy daily rates as low as Php 107, a remarkable drop from the previous Php 200 per day. These refreshed packs combine reliable connectivity with unmatched value, giving travelers more room to enjoy unforgettable adventures while staying seamlessly online.

Convenient, No-Switch SIM Solution  

Now with lower prices, you can skip the hassle of swapping SIMs or hunting for local alternatives. Just book your preferred promo in advance via the GlobeOne app, and activate it upon arrival at your destination by turning on mobile data and roaming.  No extra steps needed.  

One Promo, Multiple Countries 

Access your data with ease in over 120 countries worldwide. Whether you have a layover between two destinations or exploring France and Italy, your pack simply follows you. No extra changes whatsoever as you country-hop from one place to another. 

More Data for Every Traveler 

At 3GB for 5 days, this offer provides more data compared to other connectivity options that only give 1GB for 7 days. Stay online longer, share more holiday moments, and navigate your travels smoothly without being limited by your data packs.

Flexible Durations 

Whether it’s a quick getaway or a long vacation, flexible options ranging from 3 to 30 days ensure there’s a plan tailored to every traveler’s itinerary. 

Booking Made Easy 

Book your preferred promo effortlessly in advance through the GlobeOne app. Globe Prepaid and TM users can also register via GCash for added convenience.  

“Travelers deserve affordable and dependable connectivity to make the most out of their adventures. The all-new Roam Surf Global Packs reflect Globe’s commitment to providing our customers with value and convenience, ensuring they stay on top of things even while abroad and always connected with loved ones, work, and everything else that matters,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Head of Globe International Business.

Make the most of your trips with the all-new Roam Surf Global Packs— your trusted travel hack for staying connected. Plan your journey, book your roaming pack, and stay online wherever you go.

For more details, visit the GlobeOne app or visit glbe.co/roam.

Event | Mega Sardines 6th National Sardines Month reaches Filipinos in Mindanao

Mega Sardines, one of the top brands of Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI), kicked off this year’s National Sardines Month with a heartfelt initiative to assist communities affected by Typhoon Kristine. The effort, which included the distribution of hot meals to hardest-hit barangays, had reached over 1,500 individuals across various areas in Albay.

The National Sardines Month celebration continued its journey across the Philippines, this time bringing the Mega Sardinasaya to Davao City on November 17. Davaoeños gathered to celebrate sardines as a beloved, nutritious staple for Filipino families. As the #1 sardines brand in the country, Mega Sardines underscored its dedication to providing accessible, high-quality food. The event was hosted by popular content creators and local personalities Bite King and Kuya S, who added excitement and fun to the celebration.

“The Davao leg of Mega National Sardines Month showcases the vibrant spirit of togetherness that Mega Sardines values deeply,” said Mark Henry Camacho, Senior Brand Manager. “Bringing the celebration to Davao allows us to highlight the role of sardines as a Filipino staple while connecting with the local community through food, fun, and meaningful engagement.”

Mega Prime Foods continues National Sardines Month as it rolls into Davao. The #1 sardines brand in the Philippines brings the festivities to life at Almendras Gym, celebrating the Filipino staple with fun, food, and community spirit.

 Upcoming National Sardines Month Events Across the Country

Mega Sardines has also brought National Sardines to other parts of the country, including Albay, Cebu, Tuguegarao, and Metro Manila. Each event was able to reinforce the brand’s dedication to Filipino communities and provide support and solidarity through practical assistance.

 For more information about Mega Sardines and its products, visit megaprimefoods.com.ph or shop on its official stores in Shopee,  Lazada, and Tiktok Shop.

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.