Thursday, February 5, 2026

HOPE builds 25 classrooms in 2025

  

From its 2025 Impact Report, HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, together with its partner organizations and businesses, successfully embarked on the building of 25 public-school classrooms in 2025.

Some of the completed and under-construction HOPE classrooms in 2025

Since its founding in 2012, HOPE has built a total of 167 classrooms, providing safe and conducive learning environments for over 53,000 Filipino children nationwide, and will continue to benefit future generations of students. This underscores HOPE’s long-term commitment to improving access to quality education for Filipino youth.

As a way to help the future of our country, HOPE recognizes the need for investments in the Philippine education sector, specifically public school classrooms, and giving attention to the “last mile schools” or those located in the remote areas in the country.

“I am deeply grateful to be rooted in the work of HOPE at a time when the world continues to ask so much of the human spirit. The past year was shaped by people who chose HOPE and translated that choice into action through partnerships, communities, and everyday decisions that moved our work forward,” said Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE Chairperson and Founder.

One of HOPE’s highlights of 2025 is the launch of Generation HOPE, a partnership with the country’s most beloved brands to help address the urgent need of building more public-school classrooms nationwide. Together with BDO, Carmen’s Best, Sunnies, Grab, SM Supermalls, The Aivee Clinic, and Penshoppe, different initiatives were kick-started to invite every Filipino to join the wave of building public-school classrooms.

Generation HOPE merchandise and programs launched in 2025, together with partner brands

“To every individual who chooses to support, share, and participate, this is your impact. Your belief fuels this work and allows hope to reach more communities, classrooms, and futures across the Philippines,” she added.

To know more about HOPE’s 2025 Impact Report, please visit https://generationhope.ph/hope-impact. Please follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates.

Sun Life Philippines Incoming CEO Meets with Insurance Commissioner to Advance Financial Literacy, Market Expansion, and Regulatory Modernization

 

 

JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and Incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, and Atty. Reynaldo Regalado, Insurance Commissioner

 

JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, met with Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado to discuss their shared priorities aimed at strengthening the country’s insurance landscape. 

 

The discussion highlighted the critical need to elevate financial literacy across all sectors of the Philippine society, and recognized education as a key driver of long-term financial resilience. Both leaders emphasized the role of digital platforms in delivering relevant, accessible, and scalable financial education to Filipinos nationwide. 

 

A key part of the conversation centered on broadening the reach of life insurance, particularly for Overseas Filipino Workers and underserved communities through affordable insurance options. By expanding coverage and awareness, both sides underscored the opportunity to bring essential financial protection products to more households. 

 

Moreno and Commissioner Regalado also exchanged insights on the ongoing industry transition to International Financial Reporting Standard 17 (IFRS 17). They noted the standard’s role in ensuring greater transparency, consistency, and Client trust in the insurance industry. 

 

The meeting additionally tackled the importance of updating the Insurance Code of the Philippines to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with emerging risks and digital innovation. 

 

“We share a firm belief that strengthening the insurance sector begins with empowering Filipinos through accessible financial education, relevant products, and a regulatory environment that supports innovation,” said Moreno. “We look forward to deeper collaboration with Commissioner Regalado and the Insurance Commission as we work towards a more resilient insurance ecosystem in the Philippines.” 

 

The dialogue between Moreno and Commissioner Regalado reflects a unified vision for a more inclusive and modernized insurance industry that equips Filipinos with the tools and knowledge to secure their financial future. 

 

To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

 

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Sun Life Grepa Expands its Presence in Cebu with New Office

The event was graced by key leaders including Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim (center), Agency Channel Head Sandy J. Bustos (2nd from right) together with Cebu Regional Manager Claudette Labendia, Cluster Head Kat Tan Pho (1st and 2nd from left) and Senior Agency Manager Robert Tiu (1st from right).


Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s leading insurers, recently marked the relocation of its Cebu branch with a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony.

The event was attended by key company leaders led by Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim, together with Agency Channel Head Sandy J. Bustos, Cebu Regional Manager Claudette Labendia, Cluster Heat Kat Tan Pho, and Senior Agency Manager Robert Tiu.

The newly relocated Cebu brand features a refreshed, modern space designed to provide a more comfortable and welcoming environment for both existing and prospective clients. Its more accessible location further reinforces Sun Life Grepa’s commitment to delivering financial solutions that address the evolving needs of its clients.

The relocation forms part of the company’s broader efforts to strengthen its presence nationwide. In recent months, Sun Life Grepa has also inaugurated new offices in Davao, Zamboanga, Cabanatuan, and Laguna.

Clients may visit the new Sun Life Grepa Cebu branch at JEG Tower, Acacia Street, Cebu City.

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

It’s All About the Ultimate Basic this Summer with UNIQLO

UNIQLO presents their newest 2026 Spring/Summer collection through bringing together their newest line-up of local celebrity partners, representing different product categories. At the event are (L-R): host Nicole Anderson, Alexa Ilacad, UNIQLO Marketing Director Jan Ang, UNIQLO Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia, Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, Solenn Heussaff, Anthony Constantino, and Kianna Dy.


UNIQLO continues to elevate its LifeWear philosophy of improving everyday life through clothing, this time by centering its 2026 Spring/Summer collection on the concept of “Ultimate Basic.” Balancing functionality with the joy of wearing clothes, the exciting line-up was showcased recently during an exclusive media preview.

The concept of “Ultimate Basic” comes from the modern needs of consumers. UNIQLO draws inspiration from the strong demand for the ultimate everyday wear that marries both style and function, especially for the upcoming season. The result: a massive collection designed to embrace both comfort and style for the spring and summer seasons, achieved through fun colors, thoughtful patterns, relaxed silhouettes, and smart material choices.

 

“At UNIQLO, our goal is to create clothes designed for life’s needs, following our LifeWear philosophy,” UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia said during the event at Intramuros. “Our new collection presents clothes that are light and airy to wear, fresh to look at, and fun to style, because we want everyone to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest.”

 

 UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia gives words of welcome at the 2026 Spring/Summer LifeWear Collection Preview



While the season’s go-to may be basic jeans, t-shirts, linen, shorts, and Sport Utility Wear, UNIQLO Philippines Marketing Director Jan Ang said that the brand’s new collection has “elevated these spring and summer essentials to the ultimate level.”

 

“We’ve got new styles, colors, and patterns for everyone to get creative with this season. As always, there are innovations and new technology for enhanced and functional comfort,” she said, before presenting the collection and introducing UNIQLO Philippines’ newest line-up of local celebrity partners.

 

Kianna Dy seen in the Ultra Stretch AIRism UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie, AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top, and the Easy Utility Pants at the 2026 Spring_Summer LifeWear Collection Preview



Ang was joined on stage by the members of the refreshed roster, each representing key UNIQLO items highlighted for the season. Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo and actor Matteo Guidicelli represent the Core T-shirts and Linen line, respectively. Actress Solenn Heussaff also fronts the Linen collection, highlighting this must-have item for the warmer months. Rounding up the line-up are model Anthony Constantino for Jeans, athlete Kianna Dy for UV Protection, and actress Alexa Ilacad for Bra Top.

 

Spring Pieces Inspired by Urban Rome Styles

UNIQLO’s new season collection takes inspiration from the stylish and relaxed urban vibes of the Italian capital. Think oversized men's blouses or shirts with shorts, a fashionable and comfortable look that works equally well in the city or on vacation, especially during the summertime. Rome’s modern architecture works as style guide as well, featuring clean lines and a crisp white palette.

 

 Power couple Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli donning the newest UNIQLO pieces at the 2026 Spring_Summer Lifewear Collection Preview. Sarah wears the Linen Blend Jacket, SUPIMA Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T

Linen is another material that works great for this look, which Sarah Geronimo pulled off at the event, pairing it with a Core T shirt. “You can wear a different combination every day and still get the ultimate satisfaction, because both are comfortable and versatile,” she said. “So, just have fun with it! Express your mood with your color and style!”

 

Meanwhile, who says there’s no room for jeans during the warmer months? For its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection, UNIQLO develops the appeal of its jeans around three qualities: style, comfort, and timelessness. Each piece, including the Baggy Jeans and EZY Jeans, is centered on the three Fs of Fit, Fabric, Finish, making it the perfect jeans this summer and beyond, offering stylish silhouettes for every body.

 

 Alexa Ilacad showcases her take on the  Ribbed Cropped Bra Top as she paired this with the JWA Boxy Oxford Shirt and W’s Drapey Denim Culottes.

For Anthony, a model, wearing a lot of clothes comes part of the job. “But the UNIQLO jeans are definitely fire,” he said. “It’s the perfect example of ‘Ultimate Basic.’ It’s an old reliable upgraded with better fabric and craftsmanship. You will go to bed wearing this if you can. That’s how comfortable it is.”

 

Fresh summer looks from Amalfi Coast

Meanwhile, lighter fabrics and brighter colors suited to the seaside climate and mood give Amalfi Coast vibes. To get started, consider the W's Ribbed Cropped Bra Top and AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top, or the Premium Linen Longsleeve Shirt and Linen Blend Easy Pants for maximum comfort and breathability. Other options include AIRism inners, such as W's AIRism Bra Camisole, W's AIRism Sleeveless Top, AIRism Crew Neck T-shirt, and AIRism Cotton Crew Neck T-shirt.

 

Alexa shared her thoughts about the wonders of the Bra Top, saying, “It’s light and low maintenance. In this new collection, I am enjoying the new hues and patterns. I never thought I’d wear a top with built-in bra again since my early teens, but UNIQLO made it so well. Never be afraid to try and explore.”

 

Meanwhile, Matteo rocked UNIQLO Linen during the event, which he believes promotes the perfect summer vibes. “I like the relaxed silhouette and roomy fit at the shoulders, chest, and hem,” he said. “It’s very comfortable but also stylish at the same time.”

 

Solenn followed, adding her UNIQLO Linen selection “is the most comfortable yet elegant wear in my wardrobe right now. It’s light, airy, flowy, and can be enough as is. You can still layer it, if you want and if necessary, like with knitwear or a cardigan over it. But I really focus more on the shoes and accessories that I pair with it.”

 

UV Protection

Feeling stylish and confident under the sun includes being safe from its harmful rays. Since summer is best enjoyed outdoors, UNIQLO presents the new Ultra Stretch AIRism UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie, which not only blocks ultraviolet rays, but also presents the functional cool-to-touch feature for comfortable wear. Other stylish options include the Dry-EX UV Protection Full Zip Hoodie and the UV Protection Crew Neck Longsleeve Cardigan.

 

“Since the weather is about to get hot and humid, I have started refreshing my wardrobe with new UV pieces for my active lifestyle,” Kianna said. “Wearing something with UV protection gives me the peace of mind that my skin is safe from the sun. Plus, the fact that it has so many colors that fit my outfits, as well as its casual styles, makes it perfect for my everyday looks.”

 

Moreover, for a true summer staple, UNIQLO introduces a new eyewear line under its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection, showcasing different frames that fit a myriad of looks.

 

2026 Spring / Summer Collaboration and UT Line-up

The event also mounted an exhibit that features a dedicated area highlighting UNIQLO’s key collaborations—UNIQLO : C, UNIQLO U, and UNIQLO × Comptoir des Cotonniers. Presented as well is UNIQLO’s UT Line-up for summer, which is geared to get attention, given how many people go for shirts during the warmer season. There will be new designs featuring MoMA, Elliot Erwin, Disney and Timeless Magic For All, Powerpuff Girls, SHUEISHA 100, and BABYMONSTER.

 

Sustainability Initiatives

UNIQLO continues to champion their sustainability initiatives, as a brand with a stronghold in making a positive impact for the planet, people and society. This season, UNIQLO highlights the PEACE FOR ALL Charity T-shirt project, which aims to support peace-building efforts around the world. To date, the brand has raised over JPY 2,883,233,700 from the start of the project in 2022, selling over 9 million t-shirts in all its stores across the globe. The proceeds go towards UNIQLO’s three partner organizations: UNHCR, Plan International and Save the Children. Meanwhile, collaborators for the different t-shirt designs include personalities and icons such as Roger Federer, Haruka Ayase, PEANUTS, Keith Haring and Christophe Lemair, to name a few.

 

UNIQLO also highlights its RE.UNIQLO Studio, a service that encourages circularity through repairing and refreshing your LifeWear items. The Studio offers repair services, as well as embroidery to personalize your clothing, giving it a unique flavor and making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. This season, the brand launches the newest patches in collaboration with Disney, available in UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia and UNIQLO BGC High Street.

 

Know more about the UNIQLO 2026 Spring/Summer collection by visiting UNIQLO.com and all stores nationwide. For more information and to get all the latest updates on UNIQLO, visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow @uniqlo on Facebook, @uniqlophofficial on Instagram, and @uniqlophofficial on TikTok.

 


 

 

About UNIQLO LifeWear

Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

 

About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang. With global sales of approximately 3.1 trillion yen for the 2024 fiscal year ending August 31, 2024 (US $21.39 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2024 rate of $1 = 144.9 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

Monday, February 2, 2026

Celebrate Flavor and Fortune at The Manila Hotel’s Red Jade

 


This Chinese New Year, Red Jade at The Manila Hotel welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse with a dining experience that blends bold flavors, heritage, and modern culinary flair. From refined à la carte favorites to festive specialties crafted for the season, every meal unfolds as a celebration worth savoring.

Red Jade’s à la carte menu is a feast for the senses. Must-try dishes include Imperial Peking Duck, Lapu Lapu in Truffle Sauce, Scallops with Duck Liver in Foie Gras Sauce, and Shrimps with Almond Flakes. Dim Sum lovers can savor beloved classics such as Har Gao, Ham Sui Kok, Xiao Long Bao, and Pork and Shrimp Sio Mai. Just in time for the Lunar New Year, Red Jade also unveils new creations, including Sea Bass Dumpling, Deep Fried Suahe Beijing Style, Braised Sea Bass and Turnip Cake with Morel Mushroom in Black Truffle Sauce, and Glutinous Rice Roll with Red Bean Paste, among others.

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without tikoy. Red Jade’s tikoy offerings, available in Red Bean and Almond flavors and priced at Php 1,288 per box, are perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging in a sweet moment of tradition. Each bite symbolizes prosperity, harmony, and good fortune for the year ahead.

Vegetarian diners are equally well catered to with Red Jade’s Vegetarian Set Menu. Highlights include Vegetarian Peking Duck, Dong Pao Tofu, Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup, Mushroom Fortune Bao, and Chilled Coconut Jelly with Avocado, ensuring a refined and inclusive dining experience for all.

For intimate gatherings, Red Jade offers private dining rooms designed to provide an elegant yet welcoming ambiance. Accommodating groups of up to 30 guests, each room is ideal for festive get-togethers, business gatherings, and family milestones.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins and is walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Since 1912, The Manila Hotel continuously provides the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and Manila Hotel Health Club. The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery which offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists. It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessen that offers the hotel's signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.

Hotel Contact:

Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, +63 998 951 1912, k.tan@themanilahotel.com

One Rizal Park, 0913, Manila, Philippines

HOPE builds 25 classrooms in 2025

   From its 2025 Impact Report, HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, together with its partne...