Author: WILMAR NICOLAS DULDULAO

  • The all-new MINI John Cooper Works family now available in the Philippines

    Even more performance – even more choice.

    Philippines. MINI Asia and British United Automobiles today announced the availability of the all-new MINI John Cooper Works family. These five all-new MINI John Cooper Works models symbolise pure driving fun in its most powerful form and a unique driving experience. With the first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Electric and first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Aceman, two fully electric John Cooper Works models are now part of the MINI product portfolio for the first time. The powerful electric drives open a new chapter in the brand’s long history and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to performance and innovation. The all-new MINI John Cooper Works and all-new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible provide driving fun with a powerful TwinPower Turbo engine. In the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4, enthusiasts can also enjoy driving off-road thanks to the ALL4 all-wheel drive.

    “MINI John Cooper Works boasts a cult following around the world that few others can match,” said Daren Ching, Head of MINI Asia. “Steeped in heritage and oozing pure racing DNA, these striking machines are a sight to behold on the road. Now with the addition of two fully electric models to the lineup, a new dimension of the iconic MINI go-kart feeling is born. If jolts of adrenaline are what drivers desire, I can assure them that all five models of our all-new MINI John Cooper Works family will exceed their expectations!”

    The first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Electric and first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Aceman: Electric high performance.

    The vehicle architecture of the fully electric MINI models is perfectly suited for the brand’s consistently performance-oriented character. The first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Electric and first-ever MINI John Cooper Works Aceman have up to 190 kW/258 hp and 350 Nm of instantly available system torque. Both models provide an additional 20 kW of motor power via an electric boost function, allowing for particularly dynamic acceleration. The JCW-specific suspension tuning maximises the typical MINI go-kart feeling and guarantees agile handling. High-performance tires are part of the standard equipment of both models.

    Exclusive equipment details emphasise the emotional connection to the brand’s traditional motorsport heritage. These include the red-white-black John Cooper Works logo in the style of a checkered flag from motorsports, as well as a JCW-specific Red Roof. Black side skirts, model-specific aeroblades at the C-pillar, and the accentuated rear spoiler optimise the aerodynamics for increased range. The three-door MINI John Cooper Works Electric achieves 371 km, while the five-door MINI John Cooper Works Aceman can drive up to 355 km on a single battery charge.

    The all-new MINI John Cooper Works and all-new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible: Legendary go-kart feeling with powerful acceleration. 

    A four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine with a displacement of two litres, 231 hp, and 380 Nm of torque offers maximum driving fun and top performance in both the all-new MINI John Cooper Works and all-new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible. The sportily tuned dual-clutch automatic transmission translates the engine power into particularly dynamic gear changes. The all-new MINI John Cooper Works sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds while the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible takes 6.4 seconds. The top speed of the all-new MINI John Cooper Works is 250 km/h while the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible reaches 245 km/h. For boundless open-air driving pleasure, the softtop of the Convertible can be fully retracted in just 18 seconds at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

    The large octagonal high-gloss black front grille with wide air vents for efficient engine cooling and the modern JCW logo dominates the front view of both models. Red-coloured inserts in the side air inlets on the front apron underscore the motorsport-oriented design for maximum performance. In the centre of the black rear diffuser, the centrally positioned tailpipe emphasises the character of these two top athletes. 

    The all-new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4: Extraordinary driving fun on any terrain. 

    As the largest model, the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman with ALL4 all-wheel drive allows enthusiasts to drive off-road and stands for a unique combination of style, power, and adventurous spirit. The powerful engine delivers 300 hp of power, 400 Nm of maximum torque, and a top speed of 250 km/h, making the appearance of MINI’s spacious multi-talent particularly emotional. 

    This performance is also reflected in the powerful appearance of the all-new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4. In the front view, aerodynamic elements with red reflectors emphasise the wide stance, while at the rear of the vehicle, vertical taillights with the John Cooper Works Signature Mode frame the upright body. Advanced assistance systems support the driver through progressive technologies. 

    Puristic interior with motorsport accents. 

    The clear design of the interior in the all-new MINI John Cooper Works models is characterised by JCW-specific equipment details in red and black. The black JCW sports steering wheel with red decorative stitching and a six o’clock spoke made of black and red fabric provides excellent grip. The JCW sports seats offer secure support during dynamic driving. The combination of black leatherette with multi-colored knitted material in the shoulder area and red accent stitching picks up the colour pattern of the knitted surface of the dashboard. In all MINI John Cooper Works models, the brilliant sound of the exclusive Harman Kardon sound system enhances the driving experience as standard. 

    Advanced technology for maximum and comfortable driving pleasure. 

    The JCW-specific go-kart mode expands the selection options of the MINI Experience Modes in the vehicles of the all-new MINI John Cooper Works family with additional motorsport flair. The steering is set to a more direct setting, the accelerator pedal responds faster to commands for increased driving fun. Accordingly, the high-resolution OLED display provides additional performance-related data such as torque, power output, and current g-force.  

    For all MINI John Cooper Works models, the Digital Key Plus provides a convenient digital vehicle key on the smartphone. This allows the vehicle to be comfortably unlocked or locked without having to pick up the smartphone. 

    Long racing tradition with legendary successes. 

    The history of MINI John Cooper Works dates back to the year 1961. The John Cooper recognised the competitive potential of the classic Mini long before anyone else. By installing a more powerful engine, new brakes, and a more direct steering, he turned the modest small car into a race car that made the giants of the rally scene tremble in the 1960s. The three overall victories at the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo in 1964, 1965, and 1967 are among the absolute highlights of the classic Mini’s racing career. The current generation now carries the successful racing history into the future. Most recently with the impressive class victory of a prototype based on the new MINI John Cooper Works at the legendary 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. Regardless of the model, all high-performance vehicles in the new MINI 

    John Cooper Works family exude one decisive characteristic: the enthusiasm for top performance. 

    Exclusive track experience in Pampanga.

    The all-new MINI John Cooper Works family will officially debut at the Autohub Trackday on 7 September 2025 at Clark International Speedway, Pampanga. Be among the first to witness the adrenaline-pumping performance of these five models by test driving them on the track. Register now to secure your slot at https://bit.ly/AutohubFunTrackday2025!

    Additional information enclosed:

    1. The all-new MINI John Cooper Works family prices.
    2. The all-new MINI John Cooper Works family specifications.

    -End-

    For media enquiries, please contact:

    BMW Group Asia 

    Corporate Affairs Department 

    Email: BMWAsiaCorpAffairs@bmw.com 

    Tel: (+65) 6838 9600

    Media Website: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/asia 

    British United Automobiles Inc.

    Mae Angelie Valdez

    Senior Marketing Manager

    Tel: (+63) 920 955 7999

    Email: mpacatang@autohubgroup.com

    About MINI in Asia

    MINI is headquartered and manufactured in Oxford, UK and is a brand of BMW Group. In East Asia, this iconic car is sold in Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, New Caledonia, Guam, Sri Lanka, Tahiti, Philippines and Indonesia. The full range of MINI is available in these markets – MINI Cooper 3-Door, MINI Cooper 5-Door, MINI Aceman, MINI Countryman, and MINI John Cooper Works.

    For more information: https//www.mini.com

    About MINI Philippines

    British United Automobiles, Inc. or MINI Philippines is one of the distributorship brands under the umbrella of the Autohub Group. MINI Philippines is the sole distributor of the iconic British automotive brand, MINI. Currently, MINI Philippines has three dealerships in the country, located in Bonifacio Global City, Pampanga, and Cebu. The MINI range available in these locations – MINI 3-Door, MINI 5-Door, MINI Convertible, MINI Countryman, and MINI John Cooper Works. 

    For more information: www.mini.com.ph  

  • NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 43RD NATIONAL BOOK AWARDS

    NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 43RD NATIONAL BOOK AWARDS

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Filipino Critics Circle (FCC) are now accepting nominations for the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA). 

    First administered by the Filipino Critics Circle or the FCC (formerly known as the Manila Critics Circle) in 1982, the NBA honors the most outstanding books written and published in the Philippines. In 2008, the FCC partnered with the NBDB to co-administer the awards.

    “The National Book Awards not only rightfully honor the best works produced by our country’s finest minds and talents, they also provide an occasion for us to take stock of the zeitgeist, our writers’ current preoccupations, and where our book industry is headed,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    The deadline for nominations is on September 7, 2025. To be eligible, authors and publishers should be NBDB-registered while their works must be published in 2024 and have significance, soundness of content, quality of craft, readability, grammar, copy editing, structure of thought and ideas, and style. 


    “The National Book Awards serve as official recognition of the quality and relevance of winning books, highlighting their contributions and relevance to the growth of Philippine literature, across multiple categories and genres. The NBA is important to us as Filipinos, as we recognize books that matter to us, as a people, while also serving as a portal of possibilities for readers outside of our country,” said FCC Chair Dean Francis Alfar.

    He added, “the roster of winners for any given cycle provides a curated list of the best contemporary writing, reflecting not just Filipino sensibilities, but also what concerns and hopes we have, seen through the lens of both fiction and nonfiction.”

    Books published for the first time by a Philippine publisher and works with local editions previously published by foreign authors are also eligible for the awards for as long as it has been locally published. 

    Under the literary division, books will be recognized in categories such as novel, short fiction, nonfiction prose, anthology, drama and film, literary criticism and cultural studies, literary history, media studies, poetry, graphic novel and comics, and translation. 

    Meanwhile, in the non-literary division, books will be awarded in fields of art, professions, social sciences, history, journalism, humor, sports, lifestyle, and business, food, science, spirituality and theology, and philosophy. 

    Every year, the NBA honors a different regional language. This year, it will be Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) and Kiniray-a. All books published in these languages within the last three years (2022-2024)  are eligible for the awards regardless of genre. 

    Finally, the Best Book Design award will be given to the work with the best overall design, which encompasses the cover, typeface, dimensions, layout, type of paper, binding, and printing. A Publisher of the Year award, or the publisher with the highest total number of winners in all categories, will also be given.

    “The Filipino Critics Circle and the National Book Development Board recognize the challenges of writing, editing, illustrating, translating, designing, and producing books. We encourage publishers of all stripes, as well as authors, to submit books for consideration. Being part of the list of finalists is an achievement in and of itself, bringing more awareness of your book to the reading public,” Alfar said.

    All nominations shall be submitted through the official online nomination form. Two printed copies of the book shall also be submitted together with one digitally non-editable watermarked PDF. For nominated titles under the Translation category, submissions must also include either one printed copy or one digitally non-editable watermarked PDF of the original work from which the translation originated. For complete submission guidelines, check out this link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1761KPKJ3H/ 

    The nominated books will undergo a round of deliberations from which no more than five titles will be chosen as finalists per category. The finalists will be required to submit an additional eight copies of their books to the NBDB; non-submission will mean disqualification from the selection. In the final deliberation, one winner will be picked from the finalists of each category. 

    The winner of each category, except the Publisher of the Year, will receive PHP 40,000.00. For inquiries, contact awards@books.gov.ph.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    For media inquiries, please contact: 

    Divine Reyes Caraecle

    Communications & Promotions Section

    communications@books.gov.ph

    0917-1396394

    About the National Book Development Board 

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdbphilippines).

  • Godox Officially Launches in the Philippines with an Immersive Creative Experience

    Manila, Philippines – Global lighting solutions leader Godox has officially made its mark in the Philippines with a landmark launch event held on August 19, 2025, at Shooting Gallery Studios, Makati City, hosted by JG Distribution.

    Timed perfectly with World Photography Day, the launch gathered hundreds of creatives – photographers, videographers, filmmakers, directors, content creators, and industry professionals – for an immersive, hands-on show case of Godox’s latest innovation in professional lighting technology.

    Empowering Creativity Through Innovation

    Since its funding in 1993, Godox has been at the forefront of professional lighting solutions, pushing the boundaries of technology to make world-class tools accessible to both professionals and aspiring creators. From studio photography to large-scale film productions, Godox products have become trusted tools for storytellers around the globe.

    Guided by the mission to provide “lighting solutions that empower creativity,” Godox believes every idea deserves the right tools to shine. Its entry into the Philippine market marks a new chapter of support for local creatives, equipping them with the technology to bring their visions to life.

    A celebration of Creativity

    The launch event served not only as a product showcase but also as a celebration of the Filipino creative community. The program opened with remarks from JG Distribution Founder and Vice President Jill Tan, followed by insights from Ally Xiong of Godox Global and a product presentation from Mulawin Galang, Godox Philippines Brand Manager.

    Adding depth to the program were testimonial videos from two of the country’s top equipment rental companies, CMB Film Services Inc. and RSVP Film Studios. Kirk Baltazar of CMB shared that ‘the majority of the lights we are now using are Godox,” underscoring the brand’s growing dominance in professional production environments. Likewise, Rafa Laperal of RSVP Film Studios spoke about how Godox lighting has strengthened their workflow and offered reliable solutions for high-demand projects. Their endorsements highlighted Godox’s reputation as a trusted partner for industry leaders and professionals.

    The afternoon was capped by the live contract signing of the Godox Ambassadors, solidifying the brand’s commitment to working closely with Filipino creators. By evening, the celebration continued with interactive “touch and try” stations, launch-exclusive promos, raffle prizes, and a high-energy live performance from OPM favorite Mayonnaise.

    Spotlight on Godox Ambassadors

    A highlight of the launch was the introduction of the firs-ever Godox Ambassadors in the Philippines – a diverse group of renowned creatives who represent excellence in photography, videography, and visual storytelling:

    • Abigail Miguel
    • Arlu Nepomuceno
    • Chapters by Mayad
    • Jay Tablante
    • Ricky Ladia
    • Toto Villaruel
    • Treehouse Story

    Partners in Innovation

    The launch was made possible with the support of global and local partners who share the vision of empowering creators. Brand partners included Scandisk, Sony, Canon, Blackmagic, Lumix, Audio-Technica, Shure, Zoom, IM Rentals, Atomm Studios, Mono Studios, and I Am Abi Masterclass.

    To complete the experience, food and beverage partners such as Soimai House, Empanada Royale, Dydo Blend, Naru Cafe, Nutritzz, Sip Water, and Tomoro Coffee kept guests energized and connected throughout the day.

    Building a Creative Community

    The Godox Philippines launch stood out as one of the most significant creative gatherings of the year, uniting hundreds of the country’s brightest talents under one roof.

    “This launch is more than just about products – it’s about building a community where Filipino creators can be inspired, equipped, and empowered,” said Jill Tan, Founder & Vice President of JG Distribution.

    About Godox

    Founded in 1993, Godox is a global leader in professional lighting solutions, dedicated to empowering photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and creators worldwide. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility. Godox products are now trusted in more than 150 countries.

    About JG Distribution

    JG Distribution is one of the Philippines’ leading distributors of creative technology brands, bringing world-class tools and innovations to local creatives through retail, distribution, and community initiatives.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Dea – Marketing, jgsuperstore@gmail.com

    Social Media:

    Godox Philippines

    JG Distibution

  • Celebrating Future Educators: REX and UP Honors Outstanding Graduates of UP College of Education with Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence

    Celebrating Future Educators: REX and UP Honors Outstanding Graduates of UP College of Education with Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence

    Rex Education recently recognized the exceptional achievements of the 2025 graduating class of the University of the Philippines College of Education by presenting the REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence to this year’s summa cum laude graduates.

    Earning the distinction of summa cum laude is no small feat. It demands years of discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—not just in academics, but in personal growth and service to others. For students in the College of Education, the journey is especially challenging. It means mastering one’s field of specialization while also honing the patience, empathy, and communication skills that the teaching profession requires. Many balance these demands alongside community involvement, part-time work, or family responsibilities, making their success even more remarkable.

    Understanding the importance of recognizing this hard work, Rex Education, in partnership with the University of the Philippines College of Education, presented the REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence to nine members of the 2025 graduating class. The award recognizes students who graduated summa cum laude and highlights their academic achievement and readiness to enter the teaching profession.

    The 2025 award recipients are the following:

    ● Jacob Renz R. Ambrocio—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Biology Education

    ● Carla Denise M. Borlongan—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Sean Mikkail Nolasco D. Capili—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Biology Education

    ● Jana Mykah G. Diaz—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Early Education

    ● Leni Noelle L. Garcia—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Alyssa Anne M. Liao—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Jeneva Rose S. Narrido—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in English Language Education; minor in Filipino Language Education

    ● Yuji L. Santos—Bachelor of Elementary Education, major in Special Education

    ● Varon D. Tabajonda—Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Special Education

    The REX Edukampyon–UP College of Education Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence is part of REX’s enduring mission to strengthen the education sector by celebrating outstanding graduates who have shown steadfast dedication to their studies and to the calling of teaching. It carries with it the hope that they will be inspired and encouraged to continue their teaching journey, sharing their talents with schools and contributing to the growth of the Filipino learners, communities, and the country.

    As Rex Education celebrates its 75th anniversary, this recognition also reaffirms its steadfast commitment to be a katuwang of every Filipino learner in their lifelong learning journey. By uplifting these young achievers, REX continues to invest in the future of education, nurturing those who will one day carry forward the mission of teaching with the same passion and service—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

    Congratulations, Edukampyons!

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Richard C. Mamuyac

  • Architect Gilbert Yu shares three lessons for the next generation of designers: Book launch celebrates a life built from zero to skyscrapers

    Architect Gilbert Yu shares three lessons for the next generation of designers: Book launch celebrates a life built from zero to skyscrapers

    Celebrated architect and developer Gilbert Yu is inspiring the next generation of architects with hard-earned wisdom drawn from over three decades in the industry. Known for his pioneering iconic projects, Yu distills his experience into essential lessons for future practitioners.

    Yu sums up the lessons in his biography The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu, written by award-winning journalist Iris Gonzales.

    The book tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams. It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

    A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

    Some lessons he wants to impart to architects:

    Lesson 1: Architecture goes beyond design
    “Architecture is not just about designing structures—it’s about building lives,” Yu said. “Every structure must have purpose, be designed with excellence, and built for permanence.”

    Lesson 2: Architects must be knowledgeable in business
    Yu believes architects should understand property value, project feasibility, and market trends to ensure success. “Architects must also be development consultants, not just technical people,” he noted, urging schools to integrate business and entrepreneurship into architectural education.

    Lesson 3: Architects must be forward-thinking
    Designs should anticipate shifts in landscapes, lifestyles, and technology, enabling structures to stand the test of time.

    Yu’s philosophy can be summed up in his personal mantra: “Zero plus zero plus zero equals 100.”Starting with no knowledge, no experience and no resources, he built a thriving career and landmark projects through determination and resilience.

    “A project starts from zero before becoming an iconic landmark,” Yu said. “With vision and dedication, architects can transform the impossible into reality.”

    About the Book

    The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu tells the inspiring journey of a young man who dared to dream and persevered through life’s challenges to achieve those dreams.

    It offers an inside and intimate look at an extraordinary success story that began with the most humble of beginnings.

    A Filipino-Chinese born and raised in Manila, Architect Yu would become not just one of the country’s most prominent and successful architects of his time, but also an enduring pillar of Philippine architecture. His story is a timeless blueprint for triumph, shared prosperity, and lasting success.

    About Architect Gilbert Yu

    Architect Gilbert Yu is a respected Filipino architect and developer best known for creating quality residential projects in prime locations.

    Starting from humble beginnings as one of nine children of a sari-sari store owner, Yu worked his way through school and became a licensed architect in 1970. He co-founded G&W Architects, which delivered several landmark developments in Bonifacio Global City,  including Sapphire Residences, Kensington Place, Grand Hamptons, and Blue Sapphire.

    Throughout his career, Architect Yu has been an advocate for housing affordability, high construction standards, and consumer protection in the real estate industry.

    About the Author: Ms. Iris Gonzales

    Iris Gonzales is a journalist and columnist for The Philippine Star.  Her thrice-weekly op-ed column, Eyes Wide Open, explores the intersection of business and politics in the Philippines. She graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication in Diliman and earned her master’s degree in journalism as a Konrad Adenauer Fellow at Ateneo de Manila University.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Ms. Divine Reyes

  • Manila Water strengthens call for desludging in August to prevent post-flood health risks

    Manila Water strengthens call for desludging in August to prevent post-flood health risks

    In the wake of recent typhoons and the intensified habagat that brought widespread flooding across Luzon, Manila Water is intensifying its August desludging campaign to help communities recover and prevent post-flood health hazards.

    Serving over 7.8 million customers, Manila Water’s East Zone concession area remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather. The company is increasing its septic tank cleaning service, which is provided at no additional cost to customers, to help households avoid the risks of wastewater overflow and contamination.

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

    “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,” said Jeric Sevilla, Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director of Manila Water.

    Unmaintained septic tanks pose serious health threats after flooding. When tanks are full or compromised, floodwaters can carry untreated sewage into homes, streets, and water sources. This increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A, and leptospirosis, as well as skin infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. Regular desludging helps prevent these hazards by ensuring septic systems function properly even during heavy rains.

    Residents are encouraged to coordinate with their barangay councils or call the Manila Water Hotline 1627 to check their schedule.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Novo Nordisk partners with ORA for digital obesity care program in the country

    Novo Nordisk partners with ORA for digital obesity care program in the country

    Novo Nordisk and ORA officially seal their partnership to revolutionize obesity care in the Philippines through telehealth. The collaboration brings together Novo Nordisk’s clinical expertise and ORA’s fully digital care platform to offer end-to-end obesity care—from virtual consultations to personalized plans and medication delivery.

    The initiative aims to break down barriers of stigma, cost, and limited access to doctor’s care by empowering Filipinos to take charge of their health from the comfort of their homes. This forms part of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight (TAW) campaign in the country, which aims to raise awareness, dispel stigma, and encourage informed, science-based approaches to addressing obesity.

    Photo shows (seated from left): Thalia Bondoc, director for marketing, ORA, Tom Reynolds, vice president for marketing, ORA, Wei Sun, general manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines, and Geraldine Perez, market access & business development director of Novo Nordisk Philippines. Joining them are key colleagues from both Novo Nordisk Philippines and ORA who made this partnership possible.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS on September 14, 2025

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS on September 14, 2025

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, fly for the WPS is the First-Ever Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run. It’s a Run for a Cause in support of the Naval Air Wing of the Philippine Navy and celebrating the 78th Founding Anniversary of the Naval Air Wing.

    Bringing together diverse fitness enthusiasts, aviation professionals, and communities. To honor our maritime protectors & support vulnerable fishing communities is the aim of The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run 2025: Walk, Run, Fly for the WPS.

    It also aim to raise funds for fishing communities in Zambales, supporting sustainable livelihoods. The event proceeds will directly benefit fisherfolk affected by territorial disputes and environment challenges.

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run supports the Naval Air Wing’s mission of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea and uplifting coastal communities in Zambales.

    The Naval Aviation Freedom Flight Run will be held on 14 September 2025 at Villar City, Daang Hari, Cavite.

    Categories: 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K with special AFP rates, cash prizes, and trophies for top male and female finishers in the 10K and 21K.

    Race Kit Inclusions:

    Race Bibs for 3KM (Liberty Dash), 5KM (Guardian Sprint), 10KM (Mission Flight) and 21KM (Freedom Rush).

    Singlets for 5KM, 10KM and 21KM.

    Dog Tags for 3KM

    Finisher’s Kit Inclusions:

    Medals for 5K Finisher, 10K Finisher & 21K Finisher.

    Finisher Shirt for 10KM & 21KM.

    Awards for Podium Finishers:

    Trophies for 21K Winner & 10K Winner (1st Place, 2nd Place & 3rd Place Female Category)

    Cash Prizes

    Top 3 Male & Female finishers in 10KM & 21KM categories will win cash + trophies:

    • 21KM – P10,000 / P7,000 / P5,000
    • 10KM – P7,000 / P5,000 / P3,000

    21KM ROUTE MAP

    10KM ROUTE MAP

    5KM ROUTE MAP

    3KM ROUTE MAP

    HYDRATION Sample Computation

    Car Pass

    Parking Area

    Medical Plan

    Ambulance Deployment

    Fire Truck Deployment

    Location of Hospitals

    Event Day Schedule

    Organizers, Sponsor & Beneficiary

    Register now: https://register.raceya.fit/event/walkrunflyforthewps

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Agnes Tejada-Pambid

    📧 agnes.pambid@bcdpinpoint.com

    📞 +63917 520 7104

    Kim Lim