Category: News

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2GO, GSCCCI Hosts Forum to Strengthen Logistics Support for General Santos Businesses

2GO, the Philippines’ leading transportation and logistics solutions provider, joined industry leaders from the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (GSCCCI) in a business forum to explore how logistics can drive competitiveness and growth in SOCCSARGEN and Southern Mindanao.

The forum, themed “General Santos: Southern Mindanao’s Emerging Powerhouse in Trade and Logistics,” gathered stakeholders from agribusiness, fisheries, manufacturing, and exports. Discussions focused on current supply chain challenges and how 2GO’s multimodal operations, cold chain, cargo shipping in Mindanao, and specialized logistics solutions can provide reliable and cost-efficient support for local enterprises.

“General Santos is anchored on agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing,” said Miguel Dominguez, President of GSCCCI. “For our products to reach more customers nationwide and globally, logistics is the backbone. Forums like this allow us to align with partners such as 2GO, who can expand our market access and competitiveness.”

2GO highlighted its integrated and tailor-fit logistics solutions that serve both large industries and small and medium enterprises. With sea freight, cold chain, warehousing, cargo and freight forwarding, and passenger travel under one nationwide network, 2GO provides businesses with reliable end-to-end logistics solutions in the Philippines. These services help reduce costs, ensure on-time deliveries, and expand market reach across the Philippines and overseas.

During the event, Hannah Mamon, owner of Strawberry-Guyabano Farm, an agro-tourism destination, and Delibites Concepts Corporation, a food manufacturer in South Cotabato, shared how 2GO’s services helped streamline her operations. She noted that quicker transportation reduced delivery time from four days to two, while direct shipments to stores eliminated pilferage.

“I was able to save on warehousing, shutting down Davao and Cagayan de Oro… dahil sa streamlining na na-address ni 2GO,” she said. She added that 2GO’s Less than Container Load (LCL) service enabled her to ship even small packages to different locations with clear rates. “The efficiency, reliability, [and flexibility] na pwede mag twice a week o kahit once a week, kaya mabilis ang turnover ng inventory [sa operations].”

“General Santos is an important growth hub for Southern Mindanao,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group Inc. “By combining sea operations with forwarding, cold chain, and nationwide connectivity, we enable local businesses to scale up and access opportunities across the country and beyond.”

2GO operates in seven Mindanao ports, including General Santos, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan (via Nasipit), Zamboanga, Dipolog (via Dapitan), and Ozamiz. From these gateways, the company provides domestic shipping services in the Philippines that give businesses broad access to markets nationwide.

The forum underscored the role of logistics in supporting General Santos’ economic growth, ensuring that local industries gain the connectivity, reliability, and reach needed to stay competitive in bigger markets.

For more information on 2GO’s logistics solutions, visit www.2GO.com.ph.

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Catriona Gray and Taiwan Excellence’s LOHAS Lifestyle Make Their Philippine Debut at Market! Market!

The three-day LOHAS Days event, organized by Taiwan Excellence, began on September 12 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! with the formal kickoff. The event’s goal is to encourage Filipinos to adopt a LOHAS lifestyle. Upon her official introduction as a Taiwan LOHAS Advocate, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray held a press conference that kicked off the event.

Group photo of brand representatives for LOHAS Days. From left to right: Fu Bear, Arnold Wilson (Marketing Manager, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate), Sky Pichay (_, JK Fitness), Armin Lavilla (Aropec), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Alex Lai (Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Manila), Markki Stroem, Catriona Gray, Steve Chen (Chief Operating Officer, Starbia), Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper)

This was a huge deal for Taiwan, as it was an opportunity to showcase their sustainability and wellness technologies to the people of the Philippines. In a show of solidarity, senior executives from Taiwanese institutions and well-known health businesses were there.

Invigorating the audience and signifying Taiwan’s dramatic debut into the wellness scene in the Philippines, the press conference started with a lively cheer dance performance set to the anthem of Taiwan’s professional baseball team.

“Taiwan is serious about health.” The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. A lofty goal, Healthy Taiwan, is being advocated for by our government. One of the world’s top three producers of fitness equipment, Taiwan is also known as the Bicycle Kingdom. I hope you enjoy your surroundings and have a great time with your loved ones.

Bringing over 30 unique items, 17 Taiwanese enterprises have participated in the LOHAS movement, according to Mr. Alex Lai, Director of the Taiwan Trade Center Manila. The Taiwan Excellence Awards have honored innovation, one of Taiwan’s most cherished characteristics. The conviction that innovation improves people’s lives is the foundation of every award.

Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, spoke on the importance of the LOHAS movement in the Philippines.

According to Miss Catriona Gray, who is very enthusiastic about the movement:

I’ve always looked up to Taiwan because of how seriously it takes health and fitness issues. The sharing of LOHAS in the Philippines serves as a powerful reminder that we can all adopt a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

During the launch ceremony, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Ms. Anne Constantino, spoke about her time working with the smart workout equipment firm Johnson Fitness, based in Taiwan. Aropec, Vinxper, Starbia, and JK Fitness are among the other Taiwanese brands that are on board with the project.

First Day: What to Do

On September 12, Market! Market! came alive all day long as participants in LOHAS Days could enjoy free fitness activities like spin classes, yoga, and high-energy body combat.

At LOHAS Days, you may find wellness seminars and exercise classes, but you can also peruse a wide array of cutting-edge items from renowned Taiwanese firms. These products demonstrate the seamless integration of technology and sustainability into everyday life:

The XTC SLR 29 from Giant features their superior ALUXX SLR aluminum frame, which is known for its exceptional lightness, stiffness, and durability. This frame guarantees stability, speed, and assured handling on any terrain.
Makalot is an AI-powered motion tracking suit that uses dependable sensors and algorithms to precisely record joint motion and angles in AR/VR and animation.

The Swift Edge 14 AI from Acer is designed to be both creative and productive, with a long battery life of up to 21 hours.

FECA’s Slam Dunk Basketball Kit showcases their magic suction technology and provides a flexible, sturdy, and environmentally friendly play area for individuals of all ages.

The Power Hydrate Face Essence by Annie’s Way is a non-sticky, ultra-fast-absorbing face serum that revitalizes, hydrates, and refreshes the skin with a blend of green tea and retinol.

JoJoin us at the Ayala Malls Market for the Lohas Games!et in the game!

At Taguig City’s Ayala Malls Market! Market! LOHAS Days will keep going till September 14. Visitors can participate in fitness classes, wellness seminars, interactive displays, and product showcases that highlight Taiwan’s health and sustainability innovations. There will be fun things for the whole family and fitness fanatics to do, including meeting the event’s lovable mascot, FuBear.

Check out Taiwan Excellence PH’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph for more details about LOHAS Days.

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Over 1,500 Lives Touched: LAB for ALL’s San Juan Mission

The FilOil Centre in San Juan City transformed into a hub of hope and healing as the LAB for ALL caravan brought its nationwide health mission to the heart of the metro. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos spearheaded the initiative, welcoming over 1,500 San Juaneos with open arms—and open clinics.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos visits the Bell-Kenz booth during the Lab for All event; with her is Bell-Kenz Corporate Branding and PR Head Patrick Larraga.

From free medical consultations and diagnostic screenings to vitamins and prescription medicines, the caravan offered more than just services—it delivered peace of mind. For many residents, it was a rare chance to access healthcare without the heavy price tag. X-rays, ECGs, dental treatments, and more were made available, proving that when government and private sectors unite, real change happens.

“Dapat nating mahalin ang Pilipinas, dapat natin mahalin ang Pilipino,” the First Lady reminded the crowd, echoing a message of unity and compassion. Her gratitude extended to the volunteers, agencies, and partners who made the day possible, reinforcing that this mission is a shared effort.

Joining her were San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Representative Bel Zamora-Jornada, both proud to host the caravan and reaffirm the city’s commitment to accessible healthcare. “San Juan po ang inyo pong nadalaw,” Mayor Zamora said, highlighting the honor of being chosen as a stop on the LAB for ALL journey.

One of the standout contributors was Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., whose post-consultation support and generous distribution of medicines amplified the caravan’s impact. CEO Luis Raymond Go summed it up best: “Access to reliable treatment should not be a privilege.”

To date, LAB for ALL has served over 1,200 registered patients nationwide, delivering 3,312 medical services and 77 dental treatments. But beyond the numbers lies a deeper mission: to make “mahal magkasakit” a thing of the past.

With support from agencies like DOH, DSWD, CHED, PhilHealth, and TESDA—plus a long list of others—the San Juan leg was a testament to what collaboration can achieve. And with more city missions on the horizon, LAB for ALL continues to bridge gaps, lift burdens, and bring healthcare closer to every Filipino family.

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TeaM Energy Donates Life-Saving Medical Equipment to Quezon Province Hospitals

Quezon Governor Angelina Helen Tan (center) is shown formally receiving from TeaM Energy, represented by Froilan Gregory H. Romualdez III, Assistant Vice President for External Affairs, vital newborn care equipment during the recent turnover ceremony at the Quezon Medical Center in Lucena City. The donation, facilitated by TeaM Energy Foundation Inc. (TEFI), aims to support the improvement of the province’s public healthcare services—a priority of Gov. Tan. The life-saving items include two clinical incubators, four photography lights, two infant warmers and resuscitation tables, and two fetal dopplers. Also in the photo during turnover ceremonies were (L-R) Carlo Calvario, External Affairs Associate, TeaM Energy; Ethel Osio, External Affairs Manager, TeaM Energy; Dr. Reyce Cristina Laborte, Pediatric Consultant, QMC; Dr. Augustina Cabangon, Pediatric Department Head, QMC; Dr. Juan Eugenio Fidel Villanueva, Hospital Chief, QMC; Dr. Zarina Rosales, Pediatric Consultant, QMC; Salome Paycao, Chief Nurse, QMC; and Dr. Ramon Carmona, Jr., Chief of Clinics, QMC.

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SM Retail Recognized for Exemplary Privacy Management Program at National Data Privacy Conference

SM Retail, the retail arm of the SM group, won the Privacy Management Program Award during the recently concluded National Data Privacy Conference in Paranaque City. In photo are (from left to right) Atty. Reinier Jeffrey Abdon, SM Retail DPA Compliance; Atty. Rafael Kieran Monday, SM Retail DPA Compliance; Atty. Nerissa De Jesus, Deputy Privacy Commissioner, National Privacy Commission; Atty. John Henry Naga, Privacy Commissioner and Chairman, National Privacy Commission; Ms. Honeylin Castolo, Vice President, SM Retail; Mr. Leyson San Juan, Assistant Vice President and Data Protection Officer, SM Retail DPA Compliance; Atty. Jose Amelito S. Belarmino II, Deputy Privacy Commissioner, National Privacy Commission; Atty. Ivin Ronald D.M. Alzona, Executive Director, National Privacy Commission.

The National Privacy Commission (NPC) awarded SM Retail, the retail subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation, with the Privacy Management Program Award during the recently concluded National Data Privacy Conference in Parañaque City, recognizing the company’s consistent and structured efforts in upholding data privacy standards across its operations.

The Privacy Management Program Award is presented to organisations that demonstrate the effective implementation of privacy policies, proactive risk management, and clear accountability structures following the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

SM Retail was cited for its internal training initiatives, integration of privacy practices into day-to-day operations, and for embedding Data Protection Officers within its business units. These measures have contributed to establishing a robust data protection culture among employees and enhancing safeguards for customer information.

“We’re grateful for this recognition from the NPC, and we share this accolade with everyone at the SM Group. An effective data privacy management program hinges on strong leadership, active stakeholder engagement, dedicated privacy champions in critical DPA areas, embedded DPOs within the business, and practical, layman-friendly training rooted in real-world scenarios,” said Honeylin Castolo, Vice President of SM Retail.

The Privacy Management Program of SM Retail conducts training on data privacy awareness in addition to ongoing cybersecurity education for its employees. As the program empowers SM employees to evaluate and assess security risks, this translates to a more secure shopping experience for SM customers.

“This was made possible by the efforts of our Data Privacy Compliance Team, led by Leyson N. San Juan, the Data Protection Officer of SM Retail, Inc., and the full support from our different business units,” Castolo shared.

The Data Privacy program of SM Retail is closely monitored by rating agencies as part of SM’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. This underscores how data privacy is not only important to our customers. It is also a strategic driver that impacts SM Retail’s long-term value and reputation.

“SM Retail effectively implements its data privacy program, reflecting not only our compliance with the Data Privacy Act (DPA) but also our proactive efforts to lead by example across the retail industry. By making data privacy a fundamental part of how we operate, we hope to reinforce our reputation as a brand that our customers can continue to trust.” Castolo said.

SM Retail not only won the Privacy Management Program Award, but also made it to the finals of the NPC Seal of Registration Award. SM Retail’s DPO, Mr Leyson N. San Juan, likewise, was recognized as a finalist for Data Protection Officer (DPO) of the Year.

The awarding ceremony in Paranaque was held during the Privacy Awareness Week (PAW). Led by the National Privacy Commission, PAW is an annual celebration dedicated to strengthening data privacy awareness and promoting responsible personal data processing in the Philippines.

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2GO Receives Mega Gold Legacy Award During Mega Prime Foods’ 50th Anniversary

2GO, the country’s leading provider of shipping and freight logistics, was honored with the Mega Gold Legacy Award by Mega Prime Foods Inc. during the company’s 50th anniversary celebration. The recognition highlights 2GO’s long-standing partnership and vital role in supporting Mega Prime Foods’ nationwide operations and continued growth.

For years, 2GO has enabled the efficient and reliable movement of Mega Prime Foods’ products and supplies through its comprehensive sea freight and logistics network. With operations anchored in major ports across the country, 2GO ensures dependable connectivity that supports Mega Prime Foods’ distribution channels and supply chain continuity.

“Being recognized by Mega Prime Foods Inc. as one of their most supportive logistics partners is an incredible honor,” said Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions. “This award affirms our shared commitment to delivering quality and consistency, and it inspires us to continue providing reliable shipping and logistics solutions that help fuel the success of our partners.”

Currently, 2GO facilitates the movement of goods to and from Zamboanga, a key logistics point for Mega Prime Foods, through weekly, day-definite sailings via its RORO vessels. With a 32-hour transit time—considered the shortest and most competitive in the Philippine maritime shipping industry—2GO ensures timely and efficient transport of goods, supporting Mega Prime Foods’ distribution in the region and reinforcing its commitment to delivering quality food products across the country.

2GO operates regular freight voyages connecting Manila to Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and General Santos, among other strategic locations, with multiple sailings each week to ensure consistent supply chain performance. Specifically, 2GO sails between Manila and Cebu four times weekly, Manila and Cagayan de Oro five times weekly, and twice weekly for both the Manila–Davao and Manila–General Santos routes, enabling steady cargo movement along the country’s key logistics corridors.

Beyond sea transport, 2GO delivers scalable logistics solutions that support the full supply chain. These include cold chain logistics, cross-docking, and nationwide warehousing—critical services that ensure business continuity, especially during infrastructure-related disruptions.

This recognition reflects 2GO’s alignment with Mega Prime Foods’ mission of delivering high-quality, affordable food products to Filipino families. By ensuring reliable transportation, resilient supply chains, and consistent nationwide distribution, 2GO empowers businesses to thrive and communities to be better served.

To learn more about 2GO’s sea freight forwarding services, email 2go_freight@2go.com.ph.