Muntinlupa broadens financial assistance access for scholars with GCash Visa Card

“The City Government of Muntinlupa remains committed to making education and social assistance programs more accessible to our constituents. Through this collaboration, we are helping ensure that government support is delivered in a manner that is convenient, secure, and responsive to our constituents’ needs.” ~City Mayor Ruffy Biazon

Officials from the City Government of Muntinlupa and GCash formalize their expanded partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, reinforcing their shared commitment to making financial assistance more accessible and convenient for scholars and beneficiaries.

The City Government of Muntinlupa and GCash have strengthened their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aimed at making financial assistance more accessible, convenient, and flexible for scholars and other government beneficiaries.

The expanded partnership builds on the city’s existing collaboration with GCash and introduces additional ways for beneficiaries to receive and use financial assistance. Alongside digital disbursement services, eligible scholars can now access support through GCash Cards, providing another option for managing their funds.

The initiative expands the city’s Financial Disbursement System (FDS) partnership from selected scholarship programs to a wider student population. Through the broader implementation, more scholars across Muntinlupa can benefit from a more streamlined process for receiving government financial assistance through digital payouts.

As part of the expanded program, the City Government of Muntinlupa has begun providing physical GCash Cards to college beneficiaries. The first batch of cards was distributed to 180 Colegio de Muntinlupa scholars in August 2026, giving students an additional way to access their financial assistance.

The GCash Card complements the GCash app by allowing beneficiaries to access their funds through physical card transactions. Students can use the card to withdraw cash or make payments through participating card terminals, giving them greater flexibility even when they prefer not to transact directly through the mobile application.

The expanded Muntinlupa–GCash partnership forms part of the city's continuing efforts to modernize public service delivery and improve the distribution of government assistance through digital solutions.

By offering multiple disbursement options, the initiative aims to make the distribution of financial assistance more convenient and efficient while giving scholars and other beneficiaries greater flexibility in accessing and managing the support provided to them.

The partnership highlights how digital financial services can support government programs by providing beneficiaries with more accessible options for receiving and using financial assistance.

For many scholars and beneficiaries, having multiple options for accessing financial assistance can make receiving and managing government support more convenient. Through the GCash mobile app or physical GCash Card, beneficiaries have greater flexibility to access their funds according to their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.

By providing both digital and card-based access, the initiative helps make government financial assistance more accessible and convenient, while giving scholars and other beneficiaries additional options for managing their support.

Meanwhile, GCash Head of B2B Sales, Cleo Celeste Santos, expressed gratitude for the continued trust of the City Government of Muntinlupa, noting that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to making financial assistance more accessible for scholars and beneficiaries.

“At GCash, we are honored to support the city's efforts to empower scholars and beneficiaries through digital financial solutions that provide greater convenience, flexibility, and inclusion.” ~Cleo Celeste Santos, GCash Head of B2B Sales

As the City Government of Muntinlupa continues to support education and community development, its expanded partnership with GCash demonstrates how digital financial services and physical payment cards can help improve the delivery of government assistance. By offering more accessible and convenient ways to receive financial support, the initiative provides scholars and beneficiaries with greater flexibility while supporting the city’s efforts to make public services more responsive to the needs of its communities.

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

About GCash

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. Its mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion fintech unicorn in the Philippines.

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

Save Philippine Seas and Mondelēz International Host First-Ever Marine Litter Learning Workshop for Media

“The stories we tell about waste shape how Filipinos understand and respond to the problem. When media gets the science right — when they go beyond the surface and explain why waste ends up in our seas — they don’t just inform. They empower millions of consumers to act. This workshop is our way of partnering with the press to make that happen. Because the more accurately we tell the story, the faster we can change the culture of waste management.” ~Anna Oposa, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Save Philippine Seas

Media practitioners get hands-on experience in environmental storytelling to help drive solutions-oriented reporting on the Philippines’ waste management crisis 

Save Philippine Seas (SPS) and Mondelēz International in the Philippines have launched the country's first Marine Litter Learning Workshop for Media, giving journalists and media practitioners an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of marine pollution, waste management, and science-based solutions to the country's growing waste challenge.

Held at Catering Trio in Pasig City, the three-hour workshop provided members of the press with a hands-on learning experience based on the same interactive modules previously used to train community leaders, educators, and youth advocates across the Philippines.

The workshop featured two main activities. “Understanding Recycling” introduced participants to the science behind plastic resin identification codes and explored which types of plastic can actually be recycled within the Philippine context. Meanwhile, “Sink or Swim?” offered an immersive look at the journey of improperly discarded waste—from streets and drainage systems to esteros and eventually the country's seas.

The program also included a special environmental reporting session facilitated by FYT Media, which equipped participating journalists with practical tools and frameworks for producing more accurate, effective, and responsible environmental stories.

Why Media Matters in the Waste Conversation

The workshop was developed in recognition of the media's important role in informing public understanding of environmental concerns, while also highlighting the need for a more nuanced and informed discussion around waste management in the Philippines.

 

Co-founded by Oposa in 2011, Save Philippine Seas (SPS) has evolved from a social media campaign into one of the Philippines' prominent organizations focused on marine conservation. The organization works to connect scientific knowledge with the public, engaging communities in collective efforts and encouraging behavior change to help protect the country's oceans. As part of its education initiatives, SPS developed the Marine Litter Learning Kit, a collection of interactive, hands-on learning modules that are now being introduced and implemented in communities across the Philippines.

Building on Momentum

The workshop seeks to help consumers, through greater media awareness, better understand the complexities of plastic waste management in the Philippines. While plastic is often associated with flooding and has been included in discussions around potential government taxation, the session also examined its functional role in packaging.

Plastic can provide important protection for products, particularly food, and represents only one component of the broader packaging system used in the Philippines. The workshop emphasized that the environmental impact of waste is closely connected to how it is managed. Regardless of the material, improperly handled waste can enter drainage systems, esteros, waterways, and eventually the ocean.

The workshop also explored proposals to impose taxes on plastic products, including sachets. Mondelēz International presented science-based scenarios examining environmental approaches beyond taxation that could potentially contribute to improving waste management in the Philippines.

Mondelēz International: From Policy to Practice

The media workshop forms part of a broader series of initiatives between Save Philippine Seas (SPS) and snacks company Mondelēz International aimed at supporting better waste management in the Philippines through policy engagement, community education, and plastic collection efforts.

Mondelēz International has expressed support for the country's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act and was recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in 2026 for its efforts to collect and divert plastic packaging associated with its products.

Through its “Trash Right” program, the company supports information and education initiatives designed to encourage more responsible waste management. These include the “Miming and Friends” animated YouTube series and hands-on learning workshops conducted in partnership with SPS.

“At Mondelēz International, we believe that tackling the waste management challenge requires action on every front, from supporting legislation like the EPR Act, to collecting plastics in communities, to making sure Filipino consumers have the right information to make better choices. Bringing this workshop to media is a natural next step. Journalists are among the most powerful multipliers we have. When they understand the full picture — the science, the systems, the solutions — they can help us reach and empower millions more.” ~Caitlin Punzalan, Corporate & Government Affairs Lead, Mondelēz International in the Philippines

The education efforts are complemented by community-based plastic collection initiatives, creating a multi-faceted approach that combines awareness, community participation, and on-the-ground waste recovery.

About Save Philippine Seas

Save Philippine Seas (SPS) was founded in 2011 as a social media campaign in response to an illegal wildlife trade case in the Philippines. What started as an online movement eventually became a registered non-profit organization in 2013. SPS aims to narrow the gap between scientists and the general public, the old and young, and the passionate and indifferent by mobilizing seatizen-led initiatives that empower Filipinos towards collective action and behavior change for ocean conservation. Through education, community engagement, and policy advocacy, SPS continues to inspire Filipinos to become active stewards of the country's marine resources.

About Mondelēz International

Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world with 2025 net revenues of approximately $38.5 billion, MDLZ is leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as OREO, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor’s 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ.

About Mondelez Philippines

Mondelez Philippines, Inc. has been providing consumers with delicious snack products for the past 63 years - since 1963. Its product portfolio includes Tang powdered beverages, Eden cheese, mayonnaise and sandwich spread, Cheez Whiz spread, Oreo cookies, Tiger energy biscuits, as well as Toblerone and Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolates. The company employs about 450 people in the Philippines, with a manufacturing facility in Parañaque City. Visit https://ph.mondelezinternational.com/home

Why the GLP-1 Conversation Is Changing the Way Filipinos Shop for Food

"We're seeing more customers ask questions about ingredients and nutrition—not only because they want to eat healthier, but because they're looking for products that fit their individual wellness goals. Whether someone is simply cutting back on sugar or following a nutrition plan recommended by their healthcare professional, we want to make it easier for them to shop with confidence. There isn't one definition of healthy because every person's journey is different. Our goal is to give customers the information, transparency, and product choices they need to make choices that work for their lifestyle. When people understand what's on the label, they're better equipped to choose foods that support their long-term wellness. That work for their lifestyle. When people understand what's on the label, they're better equipped to choose foods that support their long-term wellness." ~Romy Sia, Managing Director of Healthy Options

From wellness buzzword to everyday grocery habit, the GLP-1 movement is inspiring a new generation of more intentional shoppers

Over the past two years, few wellness topics have generated as much conversation as GLP-1 medications. Prescription treatments have gained attention among celebrities and everyday patients alike, influencing discussions around weight management, nutrition, blood sugar control, and long-term health.

Although GLP-1 therapies initially became widely discussed in the United States, access is also expanding in the Philippines through licensed healthcare providers, hospitals, clinics, and telehealth services. Alongside this growing interest in GLP-1 treatments is a renewed focus on making healthier and more intentional food choices.

GLP-1 medications may help regulate appetite and blood sugar, but they are not a substitute for a balanced and nutritious diet. The American Diabetes Association's Standards of Care recognizes medication as part of a broader, individualized approach that can include nutrition planning and lifestyle interventions.

For people incorporating GLP-1 therapy into their healthcare plan, choosing nutrient-dense foods and being mindful of added sugar can support overall nutrition and complement other healthy lifestyle habits.

One of the simplest places to start is learning how to read sugar labels. 

Decoding the label is a challenge in itself 

Cutting back on sugar can be more complicated than simply reaching for products marketed as “healthy.” Labels such as “sugar-free,” “no added sugar,” and “naturally sweetened” have different meanings, and added sugars may also be listed under various names in product ingredients.

As consumers become more conscious of what goes into the food they buy, Healthy Options offers a curated selection of products featuring clear nutritional information and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. This makes it easier for shoppers to compare products, understand sugar-related claims, and choose food and beverage options that align with their individual dietary preferences and wellness goals.

Understanding sugar claims

Sugar-related claims are common on food packaging, but knowing what these terms mean can help consumers make more informed choices when shopping for groceries.

Sugar-Free generally means that a product contains only a very small amount of sugar per serving. These products may use alternative sweeteners to maintain a sweet taste.

No Added Sugar means that no sugar or sugar-containing ingredients were added during the manufacturing process. However, the product may still contain naturally occurring sugars from ingredients such as fruit, milk, or other foods.

Naturally Sweetened typically suggests that a product gets its sweetness from naturally derived ingredients rather than refined sugar. However, because this is not a standardized regulatory claim, consumers should look beyond the front of the package and check the Nutrition Facts panel and ingredient list.

For a more complete understanding of a product's nutritional profile, look at the serving size, total sugar, fiber, protein, and ingredients. Considering all of these details can help determine how a particular food fits into your overall eating pattern.

Better Choices for a Lower-Sugar Lifestyle 

Knowing how to read food labels is an important first step, but the next part is finding products that fit your everyday lifestyle, dietary preferences, and wellness goals.

Healthy Options offers a range of choices for different snacking occasions. For an afternoon treat, shoppers can consider Healthy Options Sugar-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies, while St. Amour Triples Cookies offer a sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan option that can be enjoyed when sharing with family and friends.

For chocolate cravings, Amberlyn's Sugar-Free Belgian Chocolates provide convenient, portion-friendly treats. Other options, including Pip's Heirloom Sea Salt Mini Popcorn and Sweet Switch's sugar-free gummies and mints, can also make convenient snacks for movie nights, daily commutes, or travel.

Shoppers who need additional guidance can also ask the Healthy Options store team for assistance. Team members can help customers understand product labels and explore choices based on their dietary preferences and needs, making it easier to navigate the shelves and make more informed purchasing decisions.

As interest in GLP-1 therapies continues to shape conversations around mindful eating and healthier lifestyle choices, one principle remains relevant for everyone: knowing what goes into the food we purchase. Understanding nutrition information can help consumers make more informed decisions, whether or not they are using GLP-1 medications. With easier-to-understand nutritional information and a thoughtfully curated selection of products for different dietary preferences, Healthy Options helps consumers navigate their grocery choices with greater confidence. By combining better information with a diverse range of food options, shoppers can turn their wellness goals into more informed, everyday eating decisions.

Lights, Camera, Action! Kingsford Hotel Manila Brings Family Movie Magic This Halloween

What if your favorite movie characters could come to life for one Halloween afternoon and your family could become part of the cast?

That is exactly the experience waiting for families at “Harriwood: The Thriller on Set,” the family-friendly Halloween celebration of Kingsford Hotel Manila happening on October 24, 2026. Kids and parents are invited to dress up as their favorite movie characters and enter a movie-inspired world where they are not just watching the story—they become part of the show.

Leading the adventure is Harri, the familiar and playful companion of young guests at Kingsford Hotel Manila. His name is inspired by the Filipino word “hari,” meaning “king” in English, reflecting his role as a special companion who helps make every child’s hotel experience more memorable. For Harriwood: The Thriller on Set the role of a friendly movie director, guiding families through an exciting Halloween adventure where children and parents become the stars.

Families can look forward to an afternoon filled with Halloween treats and food, games, entertainment, trick-or-treating, a costume competition, and loot bags packed with giveaways. Guests are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite movie heroes, villains, animated characters, or other iconic personalities from the big screen.

The celebration will take place at the Kingsford Ballroom from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are priced at PHP 1,600 per adult and PHP 900 for children aged 2 to 11, while children aged 0 to 1 year old can join for free.

Make It a Halloween Stay

Families who want to make their Halloween movie adventure even more memorable can turn it into a fun-filled staycation with the Harriwood Stay Package at Kingsford Hotel Manila.

For PHP 7,999 nett, families can enjoy:

• Overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Room
• Buffet breakfast for two
• Two tickets to Harriwood: The Thriller on Set
• 10% off on up to three additional Harriwood tickets
• Complimentary late check-out until 2 p.m. on October 25

Whether you are dressing up as a beloved childhood movie character, introducing the kids to their first Halloween celebration, or simply planning a memorable family getaway, Harriwood brings the magic of the movies to life while putting families right in the middle of the story.

Ready for your movie moment? Choose your favorite characters, prepare your Halloween costumes, and get ready to step onto the Harriwood set.

For reservations, contact Kingsford Hotel Manila via SMS or Viber:

Room Reservations: +63 917 859 5307

Banquets: +63 917 805 3585

About Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. Recognized with a Tourism Excellence Award by the Department of Tourism in 2025, MGHR is the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, offering Muslim-friendly accommodations and mindful stays across its growing portfolio of 16 hotels, 8 brands, and 12,000 room keys, including those in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands, including Savoy, Belmont, Richmonde, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes, Kingsford, Grand Westside and Chancellor. Its properties are located in key tourism and business destinations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. MGHR also manages international brands, including Mercure Mactan Cebu and Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo.

Philippine Lifestyle Sourcing Expo 2026 Connects Philippine Businesses with New Sourcing Opportunities This October

“Trade has always been about connecting people with the goods and services they need. Today, digital platforms have expanded this reach, enabling even small businesses to serve customers across the country and beyond. Events such as PHLSE help Filipino entrepreneurs grow, become more competitive, and enter new markets.” ~Win Gatchalian, Senate President from the Senate of the Philippines

Three specialized shows come together at SMX Convention Center Manila to help retailers, brands, distributors, and e-commerce businesses discover products and supplier partnerships

Businesses looking to expand their product lines, discover new suppliers, and explore new market opportunities can find a wider range of sourcing possibilities at the Philippine Lifestyle Sourcing Expo 2026 (PHLSE), happening October 8-10, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Positioned as “The Country’s Dedicated Marketplace for Product Sourcing and Retail Growth,” PHLSE brings together manufacturers and suppliers from China and the Philippines with businesses actively looking for products, sourcing partners, and new opportunities across retail, e-commerce, fashion, lifestyle, and sports.

The 2026 edition incorporates three specialized shows: the Philippine Apparel Textile Show, the Philippine Sport Show, and the Asia International E-commerce Expo, creating a broader sourcing platform for businesses with different product and procurement needs.

More Products, More Sourcing Opportunities

The Philippine Lifestyle Sourcing Expo 2026 (PHLSE) will showcase a wide range of products designed to meet the sourcing needs of retailers, distributors, e-commerce businesses, and other industry buyers. Featured categories include Apparel and Footwear, Consumer Electronics and Gadgets, Fashion and Accessories, Health and Sports Equipment, Home and Lifestyle Essentials, and Textiles.

This year, PHLSE 2026 is also placing greater emphasis on the growing sports and active lifestyle market. More exhibitors will be presenting basketball and pickleball equipment and materials, along with products designed for other sports and active lifestyle activities. The expanded sports selection gives buyers an opportunity to explore new products and connect with suppliers within these growing categories.

The broader product lineup reflects the changing needs of businesses that are looking beyond their existing product offerings. For retailers and buyers, the expo provides opportunities to discover new products, explore emerging consumer categories, compare sourcing options, and connect with potential suppliers who can support their business expansion and changing market demands.

Built Around Real Business Needs

For retailers and businesses, product sourcing goes beyond simply finding new products. Choosing the right supplier can have a direct impact on pricing, product availability, manufacturing capacity, lead times, and a business’s ability to respond to changing customer preferences and market demand.

The Philippine Lifestyle Sourcing Expo 2026 (PHLSE) provides a platform where businesses can connect directly with potential suppliers and discuss their specific sourcing requirements. The event is expected to welcome brand owners and product developers, importers and distributors, retail chains and specialty stores, e-commerce sellers and platform buyers, institutional and organizational buyers, startups, and emerging brands.

During the expo, visitors can discover new products, compare sourcing options, explore manufacturing and private-label opportunities, and build connections with suppliers from China and the Philippines. These direct conversations allow businesses to better understand supplier capabilities and explore potential partnerships based on their product and procurement needs.

With its focus on business networking, product sourcing, manufacturing opportunities, and supplier connections, PHLSE 2026 offers businesses a venue to explore new products and potential partnerships while responding to evolving consumer and retail trends.

What to Expect on the Floor

Beyond the exhibition floor, the Philippine Lifestyle Sourcing Expo 2026 (PHLSE) will feature a dedicated Business-to-Business (B2B) Networking Activity, giving qualified buyers and manufacturers the opportunity to meet through pre-arranged one-on-one sessions. The activity is designed to encourage direct business conversations and help participants explore potential sourcing and partnership opportunities.

PHLSE 2026 will also highlight Filipino culture, fashion, and craftsmanship through special programs such as ROOTED: The Filipino Runway, presented in partnership with the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines, and a live Laga weaving demonstration in partnership with Laga Handicrafts of Lubuagan, Kalinga. These activities add a cultural dimension to the sourcing-focused event while showcasing Filipino design and traditional craftsmanship.

Visitors can also participate in several on-site activities and promotions. The Visit & Win raffle promo will be available to the first 800 expo visitors, while those who register early can receive a special pickleball giveaway.

Adding an interactive element to the expo, the Philippine Pickleball Academy, in partnership with PHLSE 2026, will host an open pickleball play session. The activity gives buyers, exhibitors, and visitors an opportunity to experience the sport firsthand while exploring one of the event's expanding sourcing categories.

With pickleball continuing to gain popularity in the Philippines, attendees can use the session to try different equipment, learn more about the products, and connect with suppliers behind the sporting gear. The activity also provides businesses with a closer look at the growing demand for pickleball equipment and active lifestyle products, particularly among retailers and distributors exploring new product categories.

Through its combination of B2B networking, cultural showcases, product sourcing, and interactive sports activities, PHLSE 2026 offers visitors multiple ways to discover new business opportunities and connect with potential suppliers.

Free Registration is Still Open

Visitor registration for PHLSE 2026 remains open and is free for qualified trade buyers, including brand owners, importers, distributors, resellers, retail chains, e-commerce sellers, institutional buyers, and startups actively sourcing for their businesses. The expo will run on October 8-10, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, Manila, and interested buyers may register at phlifestylesourcingexpo.vx-events.com

Buyers looking to take part in the dedicated Business-to-Business Networking Activity, which matches Filipino buyers with international manufacturers and suppliers through pre-arranged meetings, may register separately at bit.ly/PHLSE2026.

Payday Treats Are Coming for Filipino Families with FEIHE Philippines’ End-of-Month Sale

Payday is the perfect time to stock up, save more, and get great value for the family! This end of the month, FEIHE Philippines is giving parents more reasons to make their payday shopping count with exciting deals and bundle offers on its fresh milk formula brands, AceKid Activegro and AceKid 3+ with Lactoferrin.

The upcoming FEIHE Philippines Payday Sale will be available through its official TikTok Shop and Shopee stores, giving parents a convenient way to shop for their family’s milk formula needs while enjoying special offers.

One of the highlights of the sale is the 30-Day Value Pack for AceKid Activegro, featuring one 1.6 kg box and eight 130 g cans in every bundle—perfect for families looking for a convenient stocking-up option.

With special deals available through online shopping platforms, FEIHE Philippines continues to bring its milk formula products closer to Filipino families while giving parents more opportunities to maximize their payday budget.

So, if you’re planning your end-of-month grocery and family essentials shopping, keep an eye out for the FEIHE Philippines Payday Sale!

Stay tuned and follow AceKid Philippines’ official TikTok Shop and Shopee pages so you won’t miss the upcoming payday deals and bundle offers.

DOH-FDA CFRR PERMIT NO.: 0516 S. 2026

2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress Sets the Stage for the Future of Philippine Coffee

How can the Philippine coffee industry become more sustainable while opening new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and the next generation of coffee professionals? These important questions will take center stage at the 2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress, happening on October 15–16, 2026, with the theme “Cultivating Tomorrow’s Cup: Working Towards a Sustainable Future for Philippine Coffee.”

Organized by the Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. (PCBI), the two-day Congress follows the success of its inaugural gathering in 2025. This year’s program will focus on practical approaches to coffee sustainability, industry experiences, education and training, innovation, and emerging opportunities across the Philippine coffee value chain.

The main Congress program will be held on October 15 at the Makati Sports Club in Makati City. Sessions and panel discussions will explore a wide range of topics, including Indigenous coffee communities, alternatives to commercial fertilizers, successful coffee production, women in coffee, circularity, coffee waste upcycling, coffee briquettes, and education and training opportunities within the coffee industry.

The event will bring together speakers and resource persons representing government, private industry, farming communities, and educational institutions. Featured speakers include Bernadette Delos Santos, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF); Gilbert Baltazar, Program Director of the Department of Agriculture’s Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (DA-4K) Program; Benjamin David Abadiano, Founder of the Pamulaan Center for Indigenous Peoples Education; Gio Espital of the PRRM Global Partnership Center; Nicolo Aberasturi, President of Banhaw Agriculture; Richard Khoo, CEO of Lastic Singapore; and Stu Balmaceda, Founder of Side B Upcycling.

Adding an international perspective is 26-year-old Adam Esham of House of Kendal in Johor, Malaysia, who began his coffee journey at 16. Together with his father, Esham Salam, he helped revive their family’s coffee-growing heritage while working to position Liberica—known in the Philippines as Barako—as a specialty coffee with greater value for both farmers and the market.

House of Kendal currently grows, mills, and roasts Liberica from its micro-farms in Batu Pahat while continuing to develop its processing and roasting techniques. During the Congress, Esham will share the House of Kendal story and Malaysia’s experience in creating renewed value around a coffee species that is also deeply familiar to Filipino growers.

Education and professional development will form another key component of the Congress. Sessions will feature Robert Francisco of UCC Coffee Academy, Brendan Rosen of Naturland Philippines and Naturland Academy, and Dave Lim, Technical Director of the ASEAN Coffee Institute, who will discuss career and learning opportunities in coffee, organic coffee production, and coffee education across the region.

The Congress will also confer the 3rd Coffee Cup of Distinction Award on Emmanuel Torrejon, recognizing his decades-long contribution to the Philippine coffee industry through coffee trading, roasting, cupping, barista training, business development, and coffee education.

On October 16, the event will move from conference discussions to hands-on coffee experiences. Registered participants can choose one of four activities, including a Coffee Cupping and Coffee Workshop at Commune Cafe in Makati City, a Coffee Crawl through Salcedo and Legazpi Villages, or a Coffee Farm Tour at the PCBI Technical Center in Amadeo, Cavite. These activities provide opportunities to experience coffee evaluation, brewing, café culture, and coffee production beyond the conference room.

Registration for the 2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress is ongoing at ₱5,000, covering both Congress days and one selected Day 2 activity. Registration closes on September 30, 2026, subject to the availability of slots for the Day 2 activities.

Register for the 2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress.

For more information, visit the Philippine Coffee Board website. 

About the Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. 

The Philippine Coffee Board, Inc. (PCBI) is a private-sector-led, non-stock, non-profit organization established to develop and promote the Philippine coffee industry. PCBI works with coffee farmers and other industry stakeholders through education, technical assistance, market development, advocacy, and partnerships with government, private-sector, and development organizations. 

George Optical Celebrates 66 Years With Special Designer Frame Promo

“One thing remains constant George cares.” ~Dr. Geoffrey Co, President and CEO of George Optical

The homegrown eye-care brand celebrates its journey from a modest clinic to a modern vision-care institution with a special ₱66 anniversary offer

Sixty-six years after opening its first clinic in Binondo, George Optical is celebrating its 66th anniversary by giving Filipino customers a special offer that reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to quality eye care and customer service.

Through the George Optical 66th Anniversary Treat, customers who purchase any frame priced at ₱6,990 and above can avail of a second selected designer frame for only ₱66. The anniversary promotion is available at George Optical branches nationwide until October 31, 2026.

The milestone marks 66 years of serving Filipino customers, from its beginnings as a single optical clinic to its growth into a broader eye-care institution. Throughout its journey, George Optical has remained guided by the values of quality, expertise, service, and genuine care.

At the heart of the brand’s continued evolution is a simple philosophy that has shaped its relationship with customers through the years: “George cares.”

Looking ahead: A modern approach to eye care

Today, George Optical continues to evolve beyond traditional prescription eyewear, expanding its services through advanced technology, specialized eye care, and more personalized patient experiences.
Leading this next chapter is Dr. Geoffrey Co, President and CEO of George Optical, who represents the second generation of the Co family to guide the company.

Dr. Geoffrey earned First Class Honours from City University in London in 1993 before undergoing specialized training at Moorfields Eye Hospital. His clinical experience included Contact Lens, Low Vision, Glaucoma, and Corneal clinics, as well as complex contact lens cases involving keratoconus, high myopia, post-corneal graft patients, aphakia, and prosthetics.

In 1996, he topped the Philippine Optometry Board Examinations and became licensed to practice optometry in both the United Kingdom and the Philippines. He has also shared his expertise as a resource speaker for optometry organizations and universities, particularly in the areas of primary eye care and contact lens fitting.

His contributions to optometry have earned national recognition. In 2012, the Professional Regulation Commission named him Most Outstanding Professional in Optometry. In 2023, he was also honored with the Distinction Award from the Philippine Federation of Professional Associations for his private and specialized practice.

For Dr. Geoffrey, however, carrying the Co family legacy is about more than professional achievements. It also means preserving the high standards of care established by the previous generation while continuing to adapt to the changing needs of patients.

Under his leadership, George Optical has strengthened its capabilities in primary eye care, specialized eye services, technology, and professional optometric practice, building on the foundation established by his father more than six decades ago.

Where it all began

The story of George Optical is rooted in the remarkable life and determination of its founder, Dr. George Co Sr.

Born Co Kian Kong in Fujian, China, on September 2, 1930, he came to the Philippines with his father when he was only seven years old. Seeking better opportunities, he worked while continuing his studies and took on various jobs, including selling cigarettes on the sidewalk, to help support himself.

Following World War II, he joined his uncle’s optical shop, initially working as an all-around houseboy. His responsibilities included cleaning, running errands, buying food, cooking, and doing laundry. It was also during this period that he learned an important skill that would eventually shape his career—grinding glass lenses and fitting them into spectacle frames.

Driven by a desire to build a better future, Dr. Co Sr. decided to pursue Optometry. His personal philosophy was simple but enduring: “To attain something of greater value, one must give up something of lesser value.”

His determination led him to graduate with honors in Optometry and place among the Top 10 in the Philippine Optometry Board Examinations.

On October 10, 1960, Dr. George Co Sr. and his wife, Mrs. Belen Co, opened the first George Optometric Clinic on Ongpin Street in Binondo, marking the beginning of what would eventually become George Optical.

The couple started with limited financial resources. They transported their belongings using a “kariton,” while the trust Dr. Co Sr. had built within the community helped make the capital needed to establish the clinic possible. He honored that trust by consistently paying his debts as the practice grew.
Patient by patient, the modest Binondo clinic gradually earned a reputation built on quality, service, and expertise principles that would become part of the enduring foundation of George Optical.

Six decades of seeing what comes next

George Optical continued to grow alongside the development of the Philippine optical and eye-care industry.

In 1975, Dr. George Co Sr. began producing hard contact lenses, a venture that eventually developed into what is now G&B Vision Care Inc. Five years later, in 1980, the company established its headquarters in Pasay. Meanwhile, George Optical continued to expand beyond traditional prescription eyewear, developing a more comprehensive approach to primary eye care and professional optical services.

Much has changed since the first George Optometric Clinic opened along Ongpin Street in Binondo. Advances in optical technology have transformed the industry, patient needs have evolved, and the scope of modern eye care has continued to grow.

Yet one principle has remained constant: caring for a person’s vision goes beyond simply providing eyeglasses or optical products. It requires professional expertise, responsibility, and the trust of every patient.

This philosophy has helped George Optical become part of the lives of generations of Filipino families. It continues to guide the company as it looks toward the future and explores new ways to serve the changing needs of its patients.

After 66 years, the brand remains guided by the principle established by its founder—that a good name is built through the trust you earn and the care you provide.

66 years later, George still cares—and always will.

About George Optical

Founded in 1960, George Optical is a Filipino eye-care brand dedicated to providing professional, personalized, and comprehensive vision care. From quality eyewear and contact lenses to primary eye-care services and specialized solutions, George Optical continues to evolve with the needs of Filipino patients while remaining grounded in its enduring commitment to quality, expertise, service, and care.

For more information, visit www.george.ph or follow George Optical on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube at @georgeph.official.

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