Novo Nordisk Philippines has partnered with Rose Pharmacy to strengthen obesity care and improve access to patient-centered weight management solutions in Cebu City and across the Visayas.

Novo Nordisk obesity care table at Rose Pharmacy Capitol Square Cebu City

The collaboration aims to help address persistent barriers in obesity care, including limited awareness and stigma, while making it easier for people living with obesity to connect with trained healthcare professionals and access more seamless support throughout their treatment journey.

Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines

“Obesity is a chronic, complex disease that requires sustained care and support,” said Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “By partnering with Rose Pharmacy, we hope to help more Filipinos in Cebu and nearby communities access the right treatment and long-term care they deserve.”

Through Rose Pharmacy’s trusted retail network, patients will gain greater awareness of obesity as a medical condition and benefit from more convenient access to science-based, patient-centered care.

Michael So, General Manager of Rose Pharmacy and Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines

“We believe pharmacies play an important role in helping patients take the first step toward better health,” said --- Michael So, General Manager of Rose Pharmacy. “By working with Novo Nordisk, we hope to make it easier for more Cebuanos to access reliable information and the support they need to manage obesity with confidence and dignity.”

Rose Pharmacy Capitol Square Cebu City

This partnership forms part of Novo Nordisk’s broader Live Lighter movement, which aims to improve how obesity is understood and treated in the Philippines. As part of these efforts, Novo Nordisk continues to expand partnerships that integrate clinical expertise, patient support, and innovation, complemented by science-based treatments such as semaglutide-based GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies—helping more Filipinos live lighter, healthier lives.

Metrobank has launched Moneygurado, a campaign in line with its goal of instilling financial mindfulness among Filipinos and a docuseries that brings practical money guidance closer to Filipinos by grounding it in real-life stories, cultural realities, and everyday experiences.

Direk Joey Reyes, Audrey Cruz, and Digs Dimagiba exchange insights from the Moneygurado docuseries, deepening the conversation on financial mindfulness and building resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Derived from “manigurado,” which means “to make sure” in Filipino, Moneygurado blends “money” and “sigurado,” capturing the goal of being confident, informed, and protected in every financial decision. It brings together everyday money management and fraud awareness, while taking a different approach—starting not with rules or tips, but with real Filipino experiences that reflect how people think and feel about money.

This builds on Metrobank’s long-standing advocacy of helping Filipinos grow and take control of their finances by translating concepts into everyday behaviors: planning ahead, spending with intention, protecting what they have, and staying open to opportunities for growth. Moneygurado positions financial mindfulness as a practical mindset that empowers individuals to navigate uncertainty with greater clarity, confidence, and control.

Metrobanks's Moneygurado

This initiative comes at a time when financial pressures are becoming more pronounced. Rising fuel prices, increasing cost of goods, and shifting economic conditions continue to affect household budgets, reinforcing the need to move from reactive habits to more deliberate financial decisions—from “bahala na” to “sigurado.”

“Moneygurado is about helping Filipinos become more intentional with their money by understanding the ‘why’ behind their decisions,” said Metrobank Chief Marketing Officer Digs Dimagiba. “By starting with real stories that reflect everyday realities, we make these conversations more relatable—and ultimately more actionable.”

Moneygurado Etymology

Moneygurado: A docuseries grounded in real Filipino experiences

At the heart of the campaign is the Moneygurado docuseries, which explores money through real-life Filipino stories, unpacking how culture shapes financial behavior across debt, spending, saving, and resilience.

Moneygurado Episodes

Instead of prescribing rules, the series examines how deeply rooted values—such as katatagan (resilience), hiya (shame), pakikisama (fellowship), and utang na loob (debt of gratitude)—influence how Filipinos save, spend, borrow, and give. While these values define identity, they can also lead to habits that put short-term social obligations ahead of long-term financial resilience.

The premiere episode, “Kapit Lang: The Filipino Way of Surviving,” features entrepreneur Audrey Cruz, founder of OnlyPans Taqueria in Poblacion, Makati. What began as a pandemic food delivery concept quickly grew into a thriving business—until a fire forced them to start over.

Her story highlights a familiar Filipino trait: katatagan or resilience. But it also underscores a deeper insight—survival alone is not enough without preparation. True financial resilience comes from intentional habits built before a crisis, not during it. By grounding insights in stories like this, Moneygurado reframes resilience from simply enduring challenges to preparing for them with purpose.

Upcoming episodes continue this exploration through different lenses: “Utang sa Pelikula: Self-Worth and Borrowing,” featuring director Jose Javier Reyes; “The Price of Hiya,” featuring historian Xiao Chua; and “Alkansya: The Filipino Art of Waiting,” featuring author Michelline Suarez.

While Moneygurado begins with stories, its purpose is to help Filipinos translate insight into action. Across the series, familiar financial behaviors are revisited through a more mindful lens—encouraging more purposeful borrowing, disciplined spending, goal-based saving, and a more intentional approach to resilience.

“Real progress starts when people see themselves in the story,” Dimagiba added. “Moneygurado is designed to meet Filipinos where they are—acknowledging their realities and helping them move forward with practical, meaningful actions.”

In the coming months, Metrobank will roll out additional Moneygurado episodes alongside accessible learning materials for students, families, and communities through its Earnest website, https://earnest.metrobank.com.ph/moneygurado.

About Moneygurado 

Moneygurado is Metrobank’s financial mindfulness campaign designed to help Filipinos become more confident, informed, and protected in their everyday money decisions. Derived from the Filipino word “manigurado,” meaning to make sure of something, Moneygurado combines “money” and “sigurado” to reflect a mindset of intentional and secure financial behavior.

Bringing together financial mindfulness and fraud awareness, Moneygurado translates practical money concepts into relatable, real-life experiences—empowering individuals to plan ahead, spend with purpose, save consistently, and protect what they have. Through initiatives such as its docuseries and learning platforms, Moneygurado aims to make financial guidance more accessible, actionable, and grounded in the realities of Filipino life.

About Metrobank

Metrobank is the country's second largest private universal bank in terms of assets that empowers both retail and business clients with customized financial products and services fit to help reach their goals and full potential. To know more and get the latest on Metrobank, visit our website, https://www.metrobank.com.ph/home and follow our official social media pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Tiktok.

The spirit of resilience, family, and community came alive as young athletes took center stage at the IRONKIDS Davao 2026 race on March 21. In its second year of partnership with IRONKIDS, RLC Residences continues to champion its vision of nurturing future generations—not just within its developments, but across meaningful real-life experiences.

The Davao leg marked the first race of the 2026 IRONKIDS series, bringing together once again the RLC Residences Junior Triathlon Team, first-time participants, and returning young athletes in an event filled with energy, determination, and heart. More than a competition, it became a celebration of growth—both for the children on the course and the families supporting them every step of the way.

The Pride in Racing at Home

For our Davao-based athletes, racing on home soil made the experience even more meaningful.

“It is very special and exciting, especially since it is happening here in Davao City. I’m proud to be a Davaoeño,” shared parent Rey Ko, whose sons Gavin and Greyson are both members of the RLC Residences Junior Tri-Team. 

Gavin placed 18th in the 9-10 years old category, while Greyson ranked 12th in the 6-8 years old category.

Another parent also emphasized the pride that comes with representing their hometown. 

“Doing triathlons is not new to Amir and Cyrus, but because of the pride that the race will be in Davao, we had extra loads of swimming time, biking time, and even running time,” shared their mother Fatima Buensuceso. 

Amir finished 6th among the 9-10-year-old participants, while Cyrus ranked 11th among the 6-8-year-olds. 

For Rey, there’s pride in seeing their children represent their community.

“As parents, we are very proud of them, especially as Davaoeños representing the RLC Residences Davao athletes,” she said.

Meanwhile, Gavin found joy not just in racing, but in the experience of being part of something bigger.

“Davao is very clean and safe. I really like the festivals, how supportive the people are, and the food is very yummy,” he said, capturing the vibrant spirit of the city.

Making Families Stronger through Sports 

Beyond the race, the event highlighted how sports can strengthen family bonds.

“The training becomes our family bonding,” shared Fatima, recalling how her kids motivated her to become a triathlete as well, and how this led them to align their schedules to train with one another. 

“Everything just comes easy,” she said of their setup. “What I like about this is that the two of them really support me as much as I support them,” she added. 

For Rey, her sons’ passion for the sport also had a positive influence on their family. 

“As a family, we became closer. We met new friends, we always support our child’s training, and we became stronger as a family,” she shared.

This reflects the heart of RLC Residences’ Raising Little Champions initiative—a movement that goes beyond athletic performance, focusing on character-building, confidence, and connection. 

Members of RLC Residences Junior Tri-Team, most of whom are residents of RLC Residences properties, have access to spaces designed to support active lifestyles within their own residences.

For those based in Metro Manila, they regularly hold in-house training sessions at The Trion Towers in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig under the guidance of professional coaches Ronald Molit and Alexander Martin. 

But for those living in the provinces, Molit and Martin continue to remotely coach and monitor their performance, making sure that they remain closely connected to the program and that distance does not limit their development and sense of belonging. 

This setup enables RLC Residences to stay true to their commitment to build a strong community among parents, children, and coaches with the shared goal of raising little champions. 

Lessons Learned Beyond the Race

For many families, the lessons learned through sport go far beyond the finish line.

“To develop discipline, perseverance, and determination—these are important for their future. Especially for us women, we need to be strong. If you love what you’re doing, you’ll want to achieve something bigger,” shared another parent Maridel Takei, whose daughter Ami, a member of RLC Residences Junior Tri-Team, placed 7th in the 9-10 years old category. 

RLC Residences Junior Triathlon Team member Ami Takei during IRONKIDS Davao 2026.

Parents echoed the importance of focusing on growth over results.

“I always tell her, every race is an experience—it doesn’t have to be about winning,” said another Davaoeño parent Yne Pablo, reinforcing the values of resilience and continuous learning.

Her daughter, Xyrene, finished 34th among participants in the 9-10 years old age group. 

RLC Residences Junior Triathlon Team member Xyrene Pablo with her mom Yne, posing with Bob the Bear before IRONKIDS Davao 2026 race day.

Fatima shared this sentiment: “It's very hard if you put pressure on winning without them enjoying what they're doing. If they enjoy what they are doing, for sure, it will lead them to winning the race.”

Some families also shared excitement about the evolving nature of the race. With new routes and fresh challenges, each IRONKIDS event brings something unique for young athletes to look forward to—further fueling their passion for the sport.

“It’s another race with a new route, so it was something exciting and it was something that we really prepared for and looked forward to,” Fatima said. 

Building Communities Where Champions Grow

Through initiatives like Raising Little Champions and its continued partnership with IRONKIDS, RLC Residences remains committed to building environments where children can thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially. From thoughtfully designed amenities to community-led activities, these spaces extend beyond the home, shaping well-rounded individuals and stronger families.

As the IRONKIDS 2026 series continues in Subic and Cebu, the Davao leg stands as a powerful reminder: when children are supported by their families and communities, they grow into champions—not just in sport, but in life.

Because sometimes, becoming a champion does not end in the finish line—it continues beyond the race.

BPI will become the first bank in the Philippines to bring Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars-themed offerings to its customers across Disney’s regional businesses – Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

As the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) marks 175 years of service to Filipino families, it opens a new chapter by entering into a strategic collaboration with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia and its affiliates.

Through this collaboration, BPI will become the first bank in the Philippines to bring together four of Disney’s regional businesses, introducing Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars-themed offerings to its customers across Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. 

BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco said the collaboration reflects BPI’s continued commitment to evolving the banking experience while remaining anchored in its core purpose of serving Filipino families.

“By bringing together BPI’s legacy of trust and financial empowerment with Disney’s timeless storytelling and characters that continue to inspire people in the Philippines across generations, we are creating more meaningful and engaging ways for our customers to connect with us. This collaboration is about helping families plan, dream, and experience more—while staying true to our mission of building a better Philippines, one family and one community at a time,” said Limcaoco. 

BPI customers may look forward to enjoying themed activations including: 

• Branded cards featuring designs inspired by fan-favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars stories, along with other themed premiums and offerings
• Special privileges for BPI cardmembers when purchasing Disney Adventure holiday vacations and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort experiences
• Special Disney+ promotions and rewards
• Special offers and events that will accompany select Disney film releases 

Said Alex Baillie, Vice President & General Manager, South Asia Pacific, Disney Consumer Products: “Great storytelling underpins everything we do at Disney, and we’re excited to bring Disney stories closer to home for fans and families in the Philippines. We look forward to collaborating with BPI to bring creative products to their customers, reaching people where they are and deepening Filipinos’ connection to Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.” 

[L-R] Eric M. Luchangco, Executive Vice President, Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer, BPI; Maria Theresa “Tere” D. Marcial, President & Chief Executive Officer, BPI Wealth; Mariana Beatriz E. Zobel de Ayala, Director, BPI, and Senior Vice President, Ayala Land; Maria Cristina “Ginbee” L. Go, Executive Vice President, Head of Consumer Banking, BPI; Jose Teodoro “TG” K. Limcaoco, President and CEO, BPI; Disney’s Minnie Mouse; Mickey Mouse; Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line; Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort; Geraldine Naidu, Director of Brand Commercialization and Market Lead, the Philippines, Disney Consumer Products; Ben Cox, Vice President, Partnerships, Direct-to-Consumer, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific; Ivan Lee, Vice President, Corporate Alliances, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific

Said Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line: “The Disney Adventure is a gamechanger for cruising in Asia, introducing a uniquely Disney vacation experience where the ship itself is the destination. We look forward to creating more opportunities for guests in the Philippines to experience Disney Adventure cruises from Singapore, creating memories to last a lifetime for guests of all ages.” 

Said Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: “The Philippines has long played a treasured role in the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s 20 years of history, with a passionate Disney fan base, millions of guests who have visited over the years, and our talented Filipino cast members who proudly represent their heritage. Through our collaboration with BPI and continued new offerings at the resort, we are excited to bring the magic closer to even more fans — whether visiting Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for the first time or returning as our dear friends and fans."

“Disney has long been part of cherished moments for many Filipinos,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking. “We are excited to join hands with Disney to bring that magic into new and unexpected spaces, creating delightful experiences that families and fans can enjoy in their everyday lives.”

The collaboration underscores BPI’s commitment to innovation and customer obsession, as the bank continues to reimagine how financial services can fit seamlessly into the lifestyles and passions of its customers.

As BPI continues to strengthen its position as a trusted financial partner for generations of Filipinos, the collaboration with Disney reflects the bank’s broader ambition to make banking not only reliable and secure, but also more rewarding, relevant, and memorable.

There is a special kind of energy that fills a neighborhood when people truly look out for one another. That warmth was on full display during Councilor Marty Romualdez’s recent visit to Barangay 42, where the day focused on the power of presence, conversation, and the genuine care that makes Tacloban feel like home.

The visit was a chance to move beyond the desk and meet residents right where they live. Through face-to-face consultations, the Councilor engaged in heartfelt conversations with residents to ensure every voice was heard and every story understood. This personal approach went hand-in-hand with the delivery of essential assistance programs designed to provide direct support and uplift local families.

These efforts were made possible by the seamless partnership between the city and the dedicated Barangay 42 Officials. By working together to streamline community services, these local leaders served as the heartbeat of the neighborhood, ensuring that support reached every doorstep. Every handshake and shared laugh reinforced a simple goal: ensuring that as our city grows, every family feels that support personally.

"Our work is all about the people," says Councilor Romualdez. "Seeing the kindness in this community reminds me that we are neighbors looking out for each other. We want to make sure everyone feels included in the bright future we are building together."

The visit ended with a renewed sense of hope and a shared promise for the days ahead. The trust shown by the residents is what keeps the momentum going. As the afternoon drew to a close, the feeling left behind wasn't just about a visit, but about a lasting friendship and the joy of working together for the common good.