Category: News

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2GO Supports Sea Turtle Conservation with Hatchling Release in Cavite

2GO, the Philippines’ leading shipping and logistics company, continues to show its commitment to protecting the environment by supporting a sea turtle hatchling release in Naic, Cavite.

The activity was organized in partnership with the Samahan ng Labac Pawikan Patrollers, a local group dedicated to protecting sea turtles. Together, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving marine life and supporting community-driven conservation efforts.

To support the group’s work, 2GO donated useful equipment, including reinforced hatchery nets, a printer, and office software. These tools will make it easier for volunteers to monitor nesting sites, document their work, and better protect sea turtle eggs along the coast.

Mercy Grace Dionisio, Assistant Vice President for Sustainability Compliance at 2GO, shared that the company understands its environmental impact as a logistics provider. Because of this, 2GO continues to find ways to operate more sustainably while supporting efforts that protect marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

A highlight of the event was the release of 70 baby sea turtles into the sea. Each hatchling released is a small but meaningful step toward strengthening sea turtle populations and protecting marine biodiversity.

The event also brought the community together. Employees and volunteers joined a coastal clean-up to help keep the shoreline safe and clean for marine life. The day also included the formal handover of the donated equipment to support the patrollers’ ongoing work.

Through partnerships like this, 2GO proves that it’s not just about delivering goods—it’s also about making a positive impact on communities and the environment.

In recent years, the company has stepped up its sustainability efforts by introducing eco-friendly packaging, using electric forklifts in warehouses, tapping renewable energy in some facilities, and adding electric trucks to its operations.

To learn more about 2GO’s sustainability initiatives, visit 2go.com.ph.

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2GO, MinDA, and DCCCII Strengthen Partnerships to Boost Mindanao’s Economic Growth and Logistics Connectivity

DAVAO CITY, Philippines—March 23, 2025—Leading transportation and logistics provider 2GO recently brought together key industry leaders, government partners, and business stakeholders in Southern Mindanao to support a shared goal: driving economic growth through stronger partnerships and better logistics connectivity.

The event, titled “Advancing Mindanao’s Inclusive Growth through Stronger Partnerships and Sustainable Economic Progress,” served as a platform for collaboration among representatives from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), and various sectors, including agribusiness, manufacturing, exporting, and logistics.

A Shared Vision for Growth

During the forum, participants discussed key regional priorities, logistics challenges, and opportunities to improve supply chain connectivity. These conversations are especially important for industries that rely heavily on efficient transport systems to grow and compete.

“Efficient logistics plays a critical role in connecting producers to markets and enabling industries to grow,” said Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions. She emphasized that closer collaboration between the government and the private sector will help businesses in Davao and across Mindanao expand their reach nationwide and globally.

Collaboration at the Core

A major highlight of the forum was the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening infrastructure, improving market access, and supporting inclusive economic development.

“This meeting marks the beginning of a more purposeful collaboration between the private and public sectors,” said MinDA Executive Director Usec. Janet M. Lopoz. She noted that with 2GO’s expertise, logistical gaps can be addressed, allowing local industries to scale and compete in international markets.

Echoing this, Dr. Mirasol B. Tiu, President of DCCCII, stressed that stronger logistics systems can empower businesses of all sizes—from exporters to small enterprises—to grow and thrive.

Expanding Logistics Across Mindanao

2GO continues to expand its footprint in Mindanao, recognizing the region as a key driver of the Philippines’ future economic growth. The company currently operates in eight major ports, including:

    • Butuan (via Nasipit)
    • Cagayan de Oro
    • General Santos
    • Zamboanga
    • Dipolog (via Dapitan)
    • Ozamiz
    • Davao
    • Siargao (newly added)

These locations help ensure smoother movement of goods and passengers, supporting the region’s growing economy.

Additionally, 2GO’s direct Manila–Davao passenger vessel route strengthens connections between Mindanao, Luzon, and the Visayas—further positioning Davao as a key logistics hub in the south.

A Legacy of Service and Innovation

With over a century of experience in maritime and logistics, 2GO offers a wide range of services through its four main business units:

    • 2GO Sea Solutions
    • 2GO Forwarding
    • 2GO Special Containers and Project Logistics
    • 2GO Travel

These services include sea freight, passenger transport, cold chain logistics, bulk liquid transport, warehousing, customs brokerage, and last-mile delivery—helping businesses move goods efficiently across the country.

Looking Ahead

As 2GO continues to work closely with partners like MinDA and DCCCII, the focus remains clear: improve logistics connectivity, expand market access, and support the long-term growth of Mindanao.

With stronger collaboration and better infrastructure, Mindanao is well on its way to becoming a more competitive and inclusive economic powerhouse in the Philippines.

 

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Erceflora Strengthens Its Commitment to Gut Health Education This Batang Matatag Day 2026

For many Filipino students, school is not only a place for learning—it is also where habits that shape lifelong health begin. Yet across the Philippines, gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities continue to put children at risk of preventable illnesses. Among these, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of sickness and hospitalization nationwide.

Health studies reveal that nearly 80% of diarrhea-related deaths are linked to poor access to safe water and sanitation, highlighting a persistent challenge faced by many communities. Unsafe water sources and limited hygiene facilities in schools can easily expose children to infections that could otherwise be prevented through proper hygiene and improved sanitation systems.

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Erceflora launched Batang Matatag, a flagship advocacy program that aims to address child mortality from diarrhea—not only through treatment but through prevention. The initiative focuses on strengthening awareness about gut health, promoting hygiene education, and supporting better sanitation practices in schools and communities.

From Treatment to Prevention

Since its launch in 2022, Batang Matatag has reached over 200,000 children across various regions in the Philippines, providing education and resources that empower students and families to adopt healthier habits.

“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience,” said Rica Mateo, Brand Lead for Erceflora in the ASEA Zone.

She emphasized that meaningful change begins with everyday choices—whether at home, in schools, or within the broader community.

Building Healthier School Environments

Beyond awareness campaigns, the initiative has also focused on improving school environments where children spend most of their day.

Through the program, WASH facilities have been constructed and refrigerated drinking fountains have been donated to more than 104 schools across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Luzon, and Rizal. These upgrades provide students with safer access to drinking water and sanitation, helping reinforce healthy daily habits.

The impact is already measurable. Partner schools in Rizal have reported a 20% decline in diarrhea cases, while schools in BARMM have seen reductions of up to 50% during the School Year 2024–2025.

Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026, expanding the program further across Rizal and Metro Manila to strengthen its mission of building resilient children through improved gut health and hygiene practices.

A Shared Responsibility 

For Erceflora and its partners, the vision behind Batang Matatag extends far beyond any single organization.

“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization,” said Emma Valette, Country Head of Opella Healthcare Philippines. “We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone.”

Batang Matatag Day 2026: Expanding the Mission

Five years into the initiative, Batang Matatag continues to grow. Batang Matatag Day 2026 marks a renewed push to expand the program’s reach and deepen its impact across more communities.

The celebration was highlighted by a visit from Opella Healthcare’s global leadership, including Julie Van-Ongevalle, Alberto Hernandez, and Matthieu Brucker. The initiative also welcomed partnerships with seven new schools, including Maharlika Integrated School.

During the event, around 200 Grade 2 and Grade 3 students participated in interactive activities such as the Batang Matatag Bus sessions, where they learned proper handwashing and other hygiene practices designed to build healthy habits early in life.

“For the past five years, in partnership with the Manila Water Foundation, schools, and communities across BARMM and Luzon, we’ve been helping children look after their health—especially their gut health, which supports 70% of immunity,” said Carol‑Ann Stewart. “We want more kids across the Philippines to know this and be truly Batang Matatag.”

Real Impact in the Community

For schools that have benefited from the program, the improvements have already made a meaningful difference.

“Batang Matatag’s services and contributions came at a crucial time, enabling us to provide improved drinking and washing facilities that will have a lasting impact on our school community,” shared Dr. Romeo O. Olalo. “More than the resources, the commitment has brought joy to our learners and strengthened an environment where they can thrive, grow, and build healthier habits for the future.”

As the program continues to expand, the vision remains clear: to create a generation of Batang Matatag—strong, resilient children equipped with the knowledge and habits needed for lifelong health.

MAHALAGANG PAALALA: Ang Erceflora Gut Defense at Erceflora Gut Restore ay hindi gamot at hindi dapat gamiting panggamot sa anumang uri ng sakit.

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Building Resilient Campuses: How Data is Helping Schools Understand the Filipino Student Experience

As climate-related disruptions continue to shape everyday life in the Philippines, universities and colleges are finding new ways to better understand how these realities affect students. At the forefront of this effort is the FEU Public Policy Center (FEU PPC), which highlights the growing importance of the College Experience Survey (CES) in helping institutions gain deeper insights into the lived experiences of Filipino students.

FEU Public Policy Center (FPPC) Chairperson Edilberto C. de Jesus

Conducted annually, the CES is a nationwide cross-sectional survey designed to assess students’ academic, social, and personal development. More than just a research initiative, it serves as a vital decision-making tool for higher education leaders. Through credible student-level data, the survey helps guide policy reviews, inform program design, and support long-term institutional planning.

Addressing Climate Realities in Higher Education

The 2025 edition of the CES places a strong spotlight on climate change, disaster preparedness, and student resilience—issues that are becoming increasingly relevant in a country frequently affected by natural disasters.

From typhoons and flooding to other environmental disruptions, many Filipino students face challenges that go beyond the classroom. These events can affect learning continuity, mental well-being, and overall campus engagement. Recognizing this, the survey aims to capture how these environmental factors influence students’ academic journeys.

FPPC Research Coordinator Kier Jesse Ballar gives an introduction about the College Experience Survey.

Through CES 2025, participating institutions will gain data-driven insights into several critical areas. These include students’ attitudes toward climate change and sustainability, their views on how academic curricula address real-world environmental risks, and their personal experiences with disasters and the resulting academic impact. The survey also examines how effective existing institutional support systems are in helping students navigate these challenges.

These insights allow schools to shift from reactive responses to more proactive, evidence-based strategies. By doing so, institutions can strengthen resilience not only in their infrastructure but also in how they support and form their students.

Turning Student Voices into Actionable Data

Participating schools will receive access to national and cross-institutional trends through the CES General Report. Institutions that achieve at least a 20 percent response rate may also qualify for a customized school-level report that provides more detailed insights specific to their campus.

FPPC Program Manager Arjay Mercado explains the implementation of CES 2025.

In addition, institutions will receive their own raw data, along with technical guidance from the FEU PPC to help interpret the findings and use them strategically. Participation also opens doors to forums, workshops, and data analysis training sessions. Schools also become part of the CES Network, a collaborative community that encourages the sharing of best practices among higher education institutions.

Listening to Students in a Climate-Vulnerable Nation

In a country highly vulnerable to climate-related risks, understanding the student perspective is becoming more critical than ever. By systematically listening to student voices, institutions can refine policies, strengthen student services, and align academic programs with the realities students face today.

Higher education institutions interested in joining CES 2025 may confirm their participation by March 15, ahead of the survey’s rollout scheduled between February and April.

As universities continue to navigate an increasingly complex world, initiatives like the College Experience Survey show how meaningful data—and the voices behind it—can help shape more resilient campuses for the future.

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ORAS NG HIMALA Celebrates 33rd Living Like Jesus Anniversary with “Christ’s Power in Action”

This March 2026, Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries (JIOSWM) marks a historic milestone as its flagship mass media program and global crusade, ORAS NG HIMALA, celebrates its 33rd Living Like Jesus Anniversary under the inspiring theme, “Christ’s Power in Action.”

For over three decades, ORAS NG HIMALA has served as a beacon of faith, hope, and transformation—reaching lives across the Philippines and around the world through dynamic preaching, healing ministry, and compassion-driven outreach. What began as a broadcast of hope has grown into a global movement, now connecting more than 500 chapters nationwide and reaching audiences in over 70 countries through television, digital platforms, and live crusades.

Anniversary Celebration Schedule

The celebration will unfold across two major venues:

March 11 & 12, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday) | 1:00 PM
JIOSWM Worship Center
#1069 EDSA, Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City
(Behind Shell Station–Muñoz, in front of DMCI Homes–Zinnia Towers)

March 15, 2026 (Sunday) | 4:00 PM
(Gates open at 1:00 PM)
Marikina Sports Center
24 Sumulong Highway, Marikina City

Thousands of attendees — including church leaders, pastors, bishops, distinguished guests, and believers from various fellowships and denominations — are expected to gather on-site. Millions more will participate via global live streaming, creating a unified celebration of faith across nations

Christ’s Power in Action

Centered on the theme “Christ’s Power in Action,” the anniversary will highlight powerful testimonies of:

    • Physical healing
    • Emotional restoration
    • Spiritual renewal
    • Supernatural breakthroughs
    • Life-changing transformation

Organizers describe the celebration as more than a commemorative event—it is a divine encounter where faith is renewed, hope is restored, and lives are transformed. Attendees can expect a Spirit-filled atmosphere affirming that Christ’s power remains active and relevant today.

Mission of Love—Love in Action

A key highlight of this milestone celebration is Mission of Love – Love in Action, the ministry’s compassion outreach initiative. Through this program, JIOSWM extends practical support to communities by providing:

    • Food and clothing assistance
    • Medical support
    • Financial aid
    • Educational assistance
    • Spiritual care

This outreach reflects the ministry’s commitment to putting faith into action—demonstrating that Christ’s power is expressed not only through miracles, but also through mercy, generosity, and service.

33 Years of Living Like Jesus

For 33 years, ORAS NG HIMALA has remained steadfast in proclaiming a message centered on living like Christ—loving boldly, serving selflessly, and believing without wavering. This anniversary celebrates a legacy of miracles and ministry while reaffirming its expanding global mission for the years ahead.

Free Admission.
All are invited to come and experience faith in action.

For more information and live stream access:
www.jioswm.org
Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube: @JIOSWMofficial

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AMA School of Medicine Brings Compassionate Care to La Union Through “Lab for All” Program

In a powerful display of service and solidarity, the AMA School of Medicine (ASM/AMASOM) took part in the third leg of the nationwide “Lab for All” program held in San Juan, La Union. The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady under the leadership of Liza Araneta-Marcos, continues to expand access to essential health and social services for underserved Filipino communities.

Bringing Government Services Closer to the People

The “Lab for All” program reflects a vision of inclusive, people-centered governance—one that ensures no community is left behind. Designed to deliver integrated services directly to grassroots areas, the initiative offers medical care, social protection, livelihood support, and digital assistance, particularly benefiting families in remote and marginalized sectors.

For residents of 41 barangays in San Juan, the outreach was more than just an event—it was an opportunity to receive quality healthcare without the usual barriers of distance and cost.

1,476 Lives Touched Through Free Medical Services

As part of its mission to develop socially responsive and globally competitive medical professionals, ASM deployed a dedicated medical team to provide:

    • Free medical consultations
    • Basic health screenings
    • Risk assessment services

The effort successfully served 1,476 patients and community members, underscoring ASM’s commitment to real-world, community-based healthcare delivery.

A Strong Network of Collaboration

The success of the program was made possible through close coordination among several government agencies and local partners, including:

    • Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
    • Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
    • Department of Health (DOH)
    • PhilHealth
    • Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
    • Department of Agriculture (DA)
    • Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO)
    • Public Attorney’s Office (PAO)
    • The Local Government Unit of San Juan, La Union

This inter-agency collaboration highlighted how coordinated public service can create meaningful and measurable impact at the community level.

Leadership in Action

Leading the medical mission was Dean Michael Maniwa, alongside faculty physicians Dr. John Rey Gonzales, Dr. Jonathan Iledan, and Dr. Eric De Leon. Their presence exemplified ASM’s standards of clinical excellence, professionalism, and compassionate care.

Supporting them were four foreign medical clerks enrolled at ASM—an inspiring reflection of the institution’s growing international community. Assigned to the Risk Assessment Station, the clerks conducted preliminary screenings, patient triage, and coordinated with partner agencies. Their involvement not only strengthened service delivery but also provided invaluable hands-on experience in community health work.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

ASM’s participation reinforced its strong emphasis on experiential learning. By engaging both local and international students in national public health initiatives, the school fosters cultural sensitivity, teamwork, and patient-centered competencies—essential qualities for modern physicians.

More than just a medical outreach, the “Lab for All” program served as a living classroom—where academic knowledge met community realities, and where future doctors learned the true meaning of service.

A Continuing Commitment to Public Health

Through its active involvement, the AMA School of Medicine reaffirms its role as a vital partner in advancing accessible, responsive, and integrated public services. As part of the AMA Education System, ASM continues to strengthen its position as a leading medical institution that integrates academic excellence, global perspective, and social responsibility.

Looking ahead, ASM remains committed to supporting future legs of the “Lab for All” program—contributing to preventive care, population health, and collaborative public service while shaping competent, compassionate, and community-oriented physicians for the Philippines and beyond.