Sterling Bank of Asia employees take part in the “Kind Heart Gives” tree planting activity at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City

Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement through this year’s “Kind Heart Gives” tree-planting initiative held at La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City. The event brought together employees from various organizations who joined SBA in its corporate social responsibility efforts, underscoring the Bank’s shared mission to make a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

The activity went beyond simply planting trees—it fostered camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of collective purpose among SBA employees. It encouraged participants to take part in meaningful initiatives that advocate for a sustainable future. “Our ‘Kind Heart Gives’ activity reflects Sterling Bank of Asia's support for sustainability and our values of being socially active in good causes,” said Dan Guevara, SBA’s Center for Learning Head and First Vice President. “We are proud to see our employees engage in projects that go beyond the workplace—efforts that show our dedication to both people and the planet.”

As SBA continues to grow as a financial institution, it remains steadfast in its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen. Through initiatives like “Kind Heart Gives,” employees contribute not only to environmental restoration but also to strengthening SBA’s culture of compassion, volunteerism, and shared responsibility.

Confidence starts with bright, healthy skin.

Between work, errands, family, friends, and the flurry of the upcoming holidays, our schedules are packed - yet our skin deserves to stay bright and radiant through it all. Because even on the busiest days, confidence shouldn’t take a back seat.

That’s why Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance partnered with SoFA Design Institute for its 2025 Graduation Show, where models, designers, and artists balanced packed schedules yet still took the runway with confidence and radiance.

The collaboration celebrated creativity, courage, and individuality in full color, spotlighting the next visionaries of Filipino fashion while reminding us that confidence isn’t just about what we wear — it begins with the self, and with skin that looks and feels its healthiest.

As the runway came alive with personal stories and self-expression, Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance stood beside them, championing radiance that feels as good as it looks; not only under the spotlight, but in everyday life.

Whether you’re walking a runway or chasing your own goals, Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance works gently behind the scenes to keep skin bright, healthy, and radiant. With every step, anyone can take on life like it’s your runway. This is your radiance, your runway.

Radiance, the Gentle Way

At the center of this radiance movement is the Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum, powered by Niacinamide, Sea Daffodil, Vitamin C, and Advanced Peptides. With its 7x Power for visible radiance, the serum delivers brighter, healthier-looking skin in as fast as 2 weeks — all while remaining kind to sensitive skin, even under daily stress.

“As a dermatologist, I remind my patients that lasting brightness doesn’t come from harsh treatments but from consistency and care. When skin is under stress, it becomes more vulnerable, so the gentler your approach, the stronger and more radiant your skin will be,” said Dr Gaile Robredo-Vitas.

For all-around radiant skin, the Bright Healthy Radiance lineup keeps skin bright, hydrated, and protected:

• The Brightness Reveal Creamy Cleanser lifts impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The Brightness Refresh Toner delivers instant luminosity for brighter skin.
• The Brightening Day Protection Cream and Brightening Night Comfort Cream provide lasting hydration and strengthen the skin barrier for a more even, radiant complexion.
• The Brightness Reveal Bar and Brightening Lotion extend clinically proven brightening care beyond the face with gentle, non-drying formulas that reveal visibly more radiant, even-toned skin.

At the event was Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Brand Ambassador Catriona Gray, who shared her love for all the products, specifically the Perfecting Serum, thanks to its multi-action benefits of brightening and improving skin health. “This is a major step in my skin routine,” said Gray, fresh off the runway. “I use it every time to give a boost of radiance to my skin and also reduce the occasional dark spot. No matter what happens, I know my skin is taken care of, and that’s what makes me more confident when it’s time to face the camera.”

Where Everyday Life Meets Skin Confidence

Because when you feel good in your skin, you shine brighter. And when your skin is bright and healthy, every day becomes your runway.

Shop Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance at Watsons, Mercury Drug, Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok. For more skincare stories and updates, follow @cetaphilbrighthealthyradiance on Instagram.

“This facility represents a major leap in improving the quality of life for our constituents. I commend Calbayog Water and its partners for their commitment to building not only infrastructure but also a healthier future for our people,” said Mayor Uy in his address.

“The inauguration of this facility marks not only the completion of a project but the beginning of a healthier, more sustainable future for Calbayog. We are proud to partner with the local government and our stakeholders to bring essential sanitation services closer to the people,” said Tan.

In the aftermath of recent typhoons and the intensified southwest monsoon (habagat) that caused widespread flooding across Luzon, Manila Water is ramping up its desludging campaign this August to help communities recover and safeguard public health.

Protecting Over 7.8 Million Customers

Manila Water’s East Zone concession serves over 7.8 million residents—many living in areas highly prone to severe weather and flooding. The company is taking extra steps this month to increase the availability of its septic tank cleaning service, which is provided at no additional cost to customers, to help prevent the dangers caused by wastewater overflow and contamination.

Where the Free Desludging Service Is Available

Throughout August, Manila Water’s septic tank cleaning trucks will be making the rounds in the following barangays and cities:

• Antipolo City: Mayamot, San Jose
• Morong, Rizal: San Pedro, San Guillermo
• Taytay, Rizal: San Isidro, San Juan
• Angono, Rizal: San Pedro
• Binangonan, Rizal: Layunan, Libis, Libid, Mambog
• Montalban (Rodriguez), Rizal: San Jose, San Isidro
• San Mateo, Rizal: Ampid II, Banaba, Gulod Malaya, Silangan
• Pasig City: Rosario, Santolan
• Taguig City: Palingon
• Quezon City: Alicia, Bagong Pag-asa, Damayang Lagi, Dioguino Zobel, Holy Spirit, Libis, Loyola Heights, Nayong Kanluran, New Era, Ramon Magsaysay, San Roque, San Martin de Porres
• Marikina City: Industrial Valley Complex
• San Juan City: San Perfecto, Pedro Cruz, Pasadena, Ermitanyo, Balong Bato
• Makati City: Tejeros
• Mandaluyong: Burol

Why Desludging Matters After Floods

After heavy rains and flooding, septic systems are at risk of overflowing and contaminating nearby environments with untreated sewage. Jeric Sevilla, Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director of Manila Water, explains:

“After heavy rains and flooding, septic systems are more vulnerable to overflows and contamination. Desludging is a simple but powerful way to protect your family’s health and the environment.”

When septic tanks are full or damaged by floodwaters, they can leak untreated waste onto streets, into homes, and local water sources. This can lead to the spread of dangerous waterborne diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A, leptospirosis, skin infections, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Regular desludging ensures septic systems work effectively, even during severe weather.

Residents: Here’s How to Schedule Your Free Cleaning

Manila Water urges residents to take advantage of the free desludging service and protect their families and communities. To check your barangay’s schedule or arrange a service, coordinate with your local barangay councils or call the Manila Water Hotline at 1627.

By working together, communities can reduce post-flood health risks and create safer, cleaner neighborhoods for all.

Let’s keep our homes and environment safe—book your septic tank cleaning today and share this information with your neighbors!

“PRULove Wealth Direct opens doors for individuals who wish to secure their future but face barriers like limited time, restricted access, or insufficient resources,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer at Pru Life UK. “It is a straightforward solution that enables more Filipinos to make most out of life and prepare for key milestones—through a seamless online purchase experience.”

“This streamlined digital process is designed to empower consumers with direct access to life insurance—particularly those looking for services beyond traditional financial channels, and those seeking alternative tools that offer growth and protection,” Dee added.

Pru Life UK once again rolled up its sleeves for Brigada Eskwela, the Department of Education’s nationwide schools maintenance programme, rallying employee volunteers last month in support of Pleasant Hills Elementary School in Mandaluyong City.

“It’s fulfilling to give back in such a tangible way,” shares Maria Junifer Maliglig, one volunteer. “Seeing the impact first-hand is what makes it all worth it.”

Pru Life UK volunteers painted pots and classroom walls in support of Pleasant Hills Elementary School in Mandaluyong City’s Brigada Eskwela programme.

Pru Life UK volunteers helped prepare the classrooms of Pleasant Hills Elementary Schoolin Mandaluyong City for the new academic year.

 a practical, steady solution for today’s needs and tomorrow’s goals

“At Pru Life UK, we are committed to understanding what matters most to our customers. We designed PRUSteady Income as a practical financial solution that empowers our customers to confidently pursue their priorities today and prepare for life’s milestones ahead,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer.

“Whether you are a parent preparing for a comfortable future for your children or a freelancer building a steady living today for yourself and your loved ones, PRUSteady Income is designed to meet you where you are in life and help you move forward with greater confidence,” she continued.

 “Beyond the 20-year coverage period, the maturity benefit can add to the policyowner’s retirement savings, offering financial security at a time when economic uncertainties make long-term planning more essential than ever,” she said.

“The reality is saving often takes a backseat to immediate responsibilities. This product provides financial protection with guaranteed payouts, while the maturity benefit serves as a financial cushion for pursuing long-overdue personal goals,” she concluded.