Category: Time Out

  • Spotify’s Creator Milestone Award Reflects Global Recognition of Filipino Talent

    Spotify’s Creator Milestone Award Reflects Global Recognition of Filipino Talent

    Podcasting in the Philippines is entering a new phase – one defined not by viral spikes but by sustained audience growth, meaningful fan communities, and creator-owned brands built for the long term.

    This year, The KoolPals and Dear MOR received Spotify’s Creator Milestone Award, a global recognition program honoring their journey and performance. Evaluated quarterly, the global award recognizes the shows that build consistent, returning audiences over time. Other podcasts recognized by the program include Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett and Critical Role.

    “Podcasting in the Philippines is maturing,” says Carl Zuzarte, Head of Studios at Spotify Southeast Asia. “Success today isn’t about a one-off spike at launch, it’s about building a show that audiences choose to return to week after week. We’re seeing creators expand their formats on Spotify while staying true to their communities. By providing the right insights and support, these shows can grow into long-term creative businesses.”

    The KoolPals Spotifys Creator Milestone Award

    For The KoolPals, longevity comes from staying deeply connected with their audience and turning the podcast into a shared experience. “We really listen to our community and try to bring their ideas into the show,” says James Caraan. “We keep the engagement alive through both videos, online interactions and live recordings, so the podcast becomes more than a show but an experience. At the same time, our continuous effort to improve the show never stops.”

    Over six years, what began as barkadahan-style banter has grown into something bigger than a comedy show. Listeners return not just for the jokes, but for the community built between hosts and fans. The familiarity of their voices has become part of the weekly routine of almost one million followers.

    Dear MOR Spotifys Creator Milestone Award

    For Dear MOR, longevity takes a different form. As one of the country’s most enduring advice- driven formats, the show has become a staple in listeners’ daily routines. That steady presence, especially for fans sharing deeply personal stories, is what keeps them coming back.

    “Consistency to us is our commitment to not only provide quality episodes but also to ensure stories that were shared with us are handled with care. Dear MOR is nothing without the stories. Consistency in honoring their stories is what keeps us going,” says Mark Marcos, Dear MOR producer.

    Spotify’s investment in the ecosystem extends beyond recognition. Earlier this year in Cebu, The Pod Network and Cebu Creators Circle partnered with Spotify to host one of the city’s first podcast-focused workshops, part of ongoing efforts to support creator growth beyond Metro Manila.

    As the Philippine podcast ecosystem strengthens, loyal audiences are emerging as the foundation for opportunities, from brand partnerships to live experiences and other creator-led ventures beyond on-platform content. For example, The KoolPals brought this to life with their sold-out Rock ‘N LOL Joketober Fest 2025, packing the house with over 1,200 fans for a night of non-stop laughter.

    “The ambition we’re seeing across the Philippines isn’t just to launch a podcast, it’s to build something that lasts,” adds Zuzarte. For more information, check out updates on For The Record: Podcasts.

  • GH Mall Honors Women’s Creativity, Strength, and Expression with Her Power, Her Moment

    GH Mall Honors Women’s Creativity, Strength, and Expression with Her Power, Her Moment

    GH Mall is proud to announce its month-long celebration of Women’s Month with Her Power, Her Moment. Designed to honor the multifaceted lives of women, this series of events blends wellness, artistic expression, and insightful masterclasses to create a space where every woman can reflect, recharge, and shine.

    GH Mall

    Experience an immersive journey featuring everything from art therapy and high-energy fitness to beauty workshops and a grand fashion show.

    For updates on Her Power, Her Moment at GH Mall, download the Ortigas Malls app, like Ortigas Malls on Facebook, and follow @greenhillsph on Instagram.

  • Del Monte Kitchenomics Marks 100 Years with a Cookbook Designed for Filipino Families Today

    Del Monte Kitchenomics Marks 100 Years with a Cookbook Designed for Filipino Families Today

    Cooking has changed, and Del Monte Kitchenomics understands exactly how

    Between packed schedules, school runs, rising grocery prices, and the daily question of “Ano na naman ang ulam?”, Filipino home cooks today face challenges that go far beyond time. Meals must be practical, budget-friendly, family-approved, and nourishing all at once.

    1 . 1. Del Monte Kitchenomics Cook Book Centennial edition

    Recognizing this new reality, Del Monte Philippines introduces the Del Monte Kitchenomics Cookbook: Centennial Edition, a thoughtfully curated collection designed to give Filipino families the confidence and joy to cook. Perfect for quick everyday meals or even for meaningful celebrations.

    More than a commemorative piece marking Del Monte’s 100th year, this limited-edition cookbook reflects the brand’s enduring commitment to nourishing the nation by making every day cooking easier, more accessible, and more rewarding.

    Recipes Built for Real Life

    Today’s kitchens are busy spaces. Home cooks juggle work, family, budgets, and evolving tastes. The Centennial Edition responds directly to these realities with recipes that reflect how Filipinos cook now: quicker preparation, flexible ingredients, minimal tools, and practical techniques without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

    1. .3 Del Monte Kitchenomics Cook Book Centennial edition

    The collection features a diverse range of dishes designed for convenience and enjoyment:

    • Quick weeknight solutions like One-Pot Chicken Biryani and Rice Cooker Beef Gyudon
    • Restaurant-style favorites such as Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich and Chili Caldereta Shrimp
    • Innovative fusion creations including Lomi Carbonara and Spaghetti a la Tteokbokki
    • Comfort food with a twist like Seafood Stew and Sinigang na Hipon sa Pinya

    “This centennial collection was thoughtfully developed to reignite the joy of home cooking by addressing the real pain points of today’s Filipino home cook,” shares Chef Meg Victorino, Executive Chef of Del Monte Philippines. “We understand the everyday challenges of managing budgets, meeting your kids’ tastes, and finding time amid busy schedules. This cookbook provides balanced, versatile recipes that help expand home menus while keeping cooking enjoyable.”

    3 Del Monte Kithenomics Potato Sayote Gratin and Fiesta Poke Bowl
    4 Del Monte Kitchenomics Chicken and Longganisa Paella

    Familiar comfort dishes are also reimagined to be more efficient and accessible , helping cooking feel less like pressure and more like pleasure.

    2 Del Monte Kithenomics Vietnamese Noodle Salad and Hawaiian Cream Cheese Bun

    Crafted by Culinary Voices Filipinos Trust

    The Centennial Edition is powered by some of the most respected names in Filipino cuisine. Leading the lineup is Chef Meg Victorino and the Del Monte Culinary Solutions Kitchen Team, it features Kitchenomics chefs across generations: Chef Sandy Daza, Chef Rob Pengson, Chef Jackie Ang Po, and Chef RV Manabat.

    5 . 1 From Left Chef Rob Pengson Chef Meg Victorino Chef Jackie Ang Po Chef RV Manabat Chef Sandy Daza

    Together, they designed recipes that address modern cooking challenges. Instead of complicated techniques, the cookbook focuses on approachable, flexible meals that work for real Filipino households.

    According to Del Monte Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Sharon Tanganco, the cookbook was created to serve every occasion.

    8. 1 From Left Chef Rob Pengson Chef Meg Victorino Jaz Estorinos Chef Jackie Ang Po Chef RV Manabat Chef Sandy Daza

    “Whether you’re pressed for time on a busy weekday or preparing something special to celebrate a milestone, this centennial collection gives Filipino home cooks the confidence to prepare good food their families will love and enjoy together.”

    More Than Recipes — A Kitchen Companion for Today

    Beyond its pages, the Centennial Edition reflects Del Monte’s larger mission: helping Filipinos cook better, eat better, and feel more confident in the kitchen. By offering recipes that respond to everyday realities, it empowers households to create nourishing meals without added stress. It’s not about cooking perfectly. It’s about cooking sustainably for your lifestyle.

    1. .2 Del Monte Kitchenomics Cook Book Centennial edition

    A Collector’s Edition Made for Everyday Use

    While it marks an important milestone in Del Monte’s 100-year history, its true value lies in everyday use: splattered pages, bookmarked favorites, and meals shared at the family table. Because in today’s world, the best recipes aren’t just delicious. They’re the ones that fit modern life.

    1.4 Del Monte Kitchenomics Cook Book Centennial edition

    Priced at Php 625, the limited-edition Del Monte Kitchenomics Centennial Cookbook is now available in major bookstores: National Bookstore, Fully Booked, and Book Sale in Metro Manila. Coming soon to provincial branches! 

    Also available on Summit Books’ official online stores on: 

    Shopee: https://bit.ly/CenturyOfNourishingGoodnessSHP
    Lazada: https://bit.ly/CenturyOfNourishingGoodnessLAZ
    TikTok Shop: https://bit.ly/CenturyOfNourishingGoodnessTT

    For more info, visit https://kitchenomics.com/

  • Robinsons Land partners with the MMDA and GET Philippines for the Electric Love Bus program

    Robinsons Land partners with the MMDA and GET Philippines for the Electric Love Bus program

    A sustainable point‑to‑point service offering Libreng Sakay to the patrons of Robinsons Galleria and Bridgetowne Destination Estate. Operating from 6 AM to 8 PM with a capacity of 30–35 passengers, this PWD‑friendly service will run 8 trips per unit per day and will operate 7 days a week, excluding holidays. Pick‑up points will be located at Robinsons Galleria’s steel parking lay‑by and between Tera Tower and Opus Mall in Bridgetowne Destination Estate. The Libreng Sakay initiative supports modern, eco‑friendly mobility for the public which will be launched this summer.

    2026 MMDA Love Bus 1

    (L-R) Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr, MMDA Deputy Chairman; Sigfrido Tinga, GET Philippines President; Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio, Robinsons Land President and CEO; Faraday D. Go, Robinsons Land EVP and Group Business Unit General Manager; Atty. Romando S. Artes, MMDA Chairman; Atty. Victor Nuñez, MMDA Legal Counsel; and Bambie L. Andal, Robinsons Land VP for PPP

  • Baguio blooms brighter as Jollibee spreads joy at Panagbenga 2026

    Baguio blooms brighter as Jollibee spreads joy at Panagbenga 2026

    Baguio City came alive as Jollibee, the Philippines’ no. 1 fastfood chain, joined the vibrant Panagbenga Festival, delighting locals and tourists alike with a spectacular float, campus treats, and exclusive promos that added extra cheer to the City of Pines’ annual flower celebration. 

    “Panagbenga shows Baguio at its most beautiful, and Jollibee is proud to fill it with joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Whether it’s a float that amazes or treats that make every day special, our goal was simple, and that was to share joy with every person, everywhere.”

    JolliPanagbenga Parade

    Building on its legacy of festival excellence, Jollibee participated in the large float competition with a spectacular floral masterpiece inspired by Cordilleran artistry. The float featured a miniature Stone Kingdom symbolizing the region’s creativity, a radiant cityscape in full bloom, a rotating Mines View observation deck showcasing Baguio’s scenic landscapes, and a giant Chickenjoy Bucket seemingly blossoming from a flower, capturing the festival’s playful and joyful spirit.

    JolliPanagbenga Activities

    The celebration extended beyond the parade. Students at the University of the Philippines Baguio and the University of Baguio were delighted with free Crunchy Chicken Sandwiches and Iced Coffee, turning ordinary school days into moments of surprise and joy. Inside Jollibee stores, the Festival Treats Promo with Coca-Cola ran from February 27 to March 1, offering a free 1.5L Coke with every 8-piece Chickenjoy Bucket, while from February 27 to March 8, a free Go Large Coke was available with any Chickenjoy Value Meal.

    Jollibee

    Jollibee also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry to bring its BEE Earth’s Best Friend campaign to Benguet, promoting sustainable practices. Customers who opted not to use plastic utensils for take-out or drive-thru orders from February 27 to March 27 were rewarded with incentives for future visits. Music fans enjoyed a lively appearance from Jollibee and Friends at the Coke Studio Concert at Melvin Jones Football Grounds on February 27.

    Festivalgoers are encouraged to share their Jollibee moments on social media using #JolliPanagbenga2026 for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.

    Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

  • TELUS Digital Philippines Earns Two Anvil Awards for Employee Engagement and Community Advocacy

    TELUS Digital Philippines Earns Two Anvil Awards for Employee Engagement and Community Advocacy

    TELUS Digital Philippines, a provider of digitally enabled customer experience and business process solutions, earned two Silver Anvil Awards at the 61st Anvil Awards for initiatives under its TELUS Days of Giving program. Now in its 18th year, the program has strengthened employee engagement across its sites and supported community advocacy across the Philippines. Presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Anvil Awards are considered the nation’s most prestigious recognition for public relations programs that demonstrate excellence in strategy, execution, and measurable impact across industries.

    ANVIL Group Photo TELUS Digital Philippines

    TELUS Digital Philippines was honored for two initiatives: one that revitalized employee engagement through strategic communication and another that translated volunteer participation into acts of bayanihan across communities nationwide. TELUS Days of Giving is a global volunteer movement across the TELUS Corporation inviting team members to contribute their time and support causes related to education, health, and disaster response.

    “TELUS Days of Giving has always been about creating space for our people to support communities beyond the workplace,” said Pia Gajasan, Senior Manager for Communications in Asia Pacific at TELUS Digital. “These awards reflect how consistent participation, dialogue, and shared ownership helped sustain that purpose by turning long-term involvement into meaningful action, even after 18 years.”

    Revitalizing an 18-Year Legacy of Giving

    In the Employee Engagement category, TELUS Digital Philippines was recognized for showing how two-way communication can sustain employee participation over time.

    Facing potential risks for program fatigue after nearly two decades, the initiative provided a refreshed way of communicating TELUS Days of Giving internally. Instead of relying on one-way announcements, the program shifted toward storytelling, dialogue, and co-creation, transforming channels into active spaces for feedback, recognition, and shared ownership.

    The new approach yielded measurable results. Employee participation reached 48%, with over 12,200 team members dedicating over 20,400 volunteer hours  for TELUS Days of Giving initiatives nationwide last year. These efforts impacted more than 31,500 beneficiaries across communities and were supported by grants and donations totaling PHP19 million. Most importantly, the refreshed narrative strengthened employees’ connection to the company’s purpose and its 18-year legacy of giving back to the community.

    Turning Workdays into Acts of Bayanihan

    In the Advocacy, Public Awareness, and Cause-Related Campaigns category, the company was recognized for initiatives that mobilized employees to support community needs beyond the workplace. The award recognized how the company extended its employee-driven culture into broader community action, engaging thousands in addressing gaps in education, health, environmental sustainability, and digital readiness across the country.

    Through year-round volunteer programs, fundraising efforts, and partnerships with NGOs and local organizations, TELUS Days of Giving has evolved into a platform for collective impact. From literacy programs and school refurbishments, to digital safety education and disaster relief, TELUS Days of Giving showcases how private sector organizations can contribute meaningfully to social development while raising public awareness and civic participation.

    The two Silver Anvil wins highlight TELUS Digital Philippines’ belief that engagement is built not just through long-standing programs, but by ensuring our advocacy is strategically communicated and every team member feels genuinely involved.

    By aligning employee experience with community impact, the company continues to demonstrate how organizations can embed giving into daily work where purpose is upheld, participation is voluntary, and bayanihan remains a core value rather than just a seasonal campaign.

  • Love, Style, and Performance: Converse Spring 2026 Sets the Tone

    Love, Style, and Performance: Converse Spring 2026 Sets the Tone

    Spring 2026 is set to make a statement with Converse, as the brand brings together heritage, heart, and performance in a fresh lineup of releases. From celebrating love in all its forms to reimagining classic silhouettes for modern street style and pushing the boundaries of basketball innovation, Converse continues to prove why it remains at the forefront of self-expression and culture.

    Converse

    This season, the spotlight shines on the playful Chucks in Love collection, the minimalist versatility of the Chuck Taylor Lo, and the duality of style and performance with Converse x Shai SHAI 001 colorways: ‘Ares Gray’ and ‘Clean Slate’. Each collection offers a unique take on Converse DNA, blending design innovation with the brand’s timeless spirit.

    Celebrate All Forms of Love This Valentine’s Day With Chucks in Love

    Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance. For Spring 2026, Converse celebrates love in all its forms with the Chucks in Love collection, honoring romantic connections, close friendships, family bonds, and everyday self-love through playful, expressive design.

    Converse Love 1
    Chucks In Love 1

    Built on classic Chuck DNA, the collection introduces heart-shaped detailing, embroidered text, statement stitching, quirky shoe charms, and bold, feel-good patterns that add personality to timeless silhouettes. Each pair stays true to the icon’s heritage while offering thoughtful updates designed to spark joy and self-expression in everyday wear.

    The lineup spans adults’ and kids’ styles, making it easy to gift, match, or treat yourself. From elevated platform styles to easy-on options for little ones, every design balances comfort and character, ensuring love is on display from every angle, whether it’s worn on a casual day out or styled as a Valentine’s statement.

    New SHAI 001 Colorways

    Converse Basketball continues its evolution with two new SHAI 001 colorways, reinforcing the shoe’s dual role as a performance-first basketball silhouette and a style-forward statement. Designed in collaboration with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, each release reflects his influence as both elite athlete and Creative Director of Converse Basketball.

    SHAI 001 CLEAN SLATE 4

    CLEAN SLATE introduces a crisp, triple-white execution rooted in themes of renewal and fresh beginnings. Minimal by design and bold in intent, the colorway strips the silhouette back to its essentials, serving as a canvas for reinvention. Like every SHAI 001, it is built for movement on and off the court, combining precision performance technology with a refined, modern aesthetic. The Converse SHAI 001 CLEAN SLATE launches on February 14 at 10:00 AM Philippine time.

    SHAI 001 ARES GRAY 9

    Together, these colorways deepen the connection between Shai and Converse while reinforcing the brand’s role in shaping modern basketball culture, championing individuality, creativity, and a new way to do sport. Both SHAI 001 colorways are available exclusively at Converse Glorietta and select Foot Locker branches.

    A Fresh Low-Profile Take on the Chuck Taylor Lo 

    The Chuck Taylor Lo introduces a streamlined, low-profile silhouette that offers a new perspective on the iconic Chuck. Drawing from Converse’s heritage and sports-style pedigree, the design pairs clean lines and modern proportions with timeless details that define the Chuck legacy.

    Chuck Taylor Lo 2

    Built for versatility, the Chuck Taylor Lo features a double-lasted outsole that hugs the ground for a sleek, grounded stance. Beneath its refined exterior, concealed comfort layers, including a lightweight foam midsole and sculpted sockliner, support all-day wear. Premium materials, such as suede uppers and padded leather heel collars, add subtle texture and depth to the silhouette.

    Chuck Taylor Lo 1

    Signature Chuck elements remain intact, from the rubber toe cap and winged stitching to All Star branding at the heel and tongue. Finished with punched eyelets, an overaged eyelet row, and two sets of laces for customizable styling, the Chuck Taylor Lo offers a quieter, more minimal expression of self-expression, designed to move seamlessly from everyday wear to nights out.

    Chuck Taylor Lo 8

    From expressive Valentine’s styles to refined streetwear silhouettes and performance-driven basketball innovation, Converse’s Spring 2026 lineup reflects a brand that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its heritage. Across every collection, Converse invites wearers to move, express, and define style on their own terms.

    Converse is available in Powerplant mall, select Ayala Malls, SM Malls, Robinsons Department Stores. For more information, visit www.converse.ph.

  • A Weekend Filled with Love and Luck at Robinsons Department Store Galleria

    A Weekend Filled with Love and Luck at Robinsons Department Store Galleria

    Robinsons Department Store welcomes the Chinese New Year with a festive in-store celebration inspired by luck, prosperity, and family fun. Anchored on experiential activities and customer rewards, the Year of the Horse 2026 celebration brings interactive attractions designed to drive foot traffic, engagement, and memorable moments for shoppers. This campaign blends tradition with modern retail experiences—turning shopping into a celebratory event rather than just a transaction.

    KV 1

    Shoppers at Robinsons Department Store Galleria can immerse themselves in the festivities through several event highlights:

    • Free Horse Carousel Ride: A Chinese New Year-themed Horse Carousel is open to shoppers from February 13-17, 2026, between 12 NN and 7 PM. This unique experience is free with a minimum single-receipt purchase of P500.
    • Free Photo Prints: From February 13-17, 2026, shoppers who make a minimum single-receipt purchase of P500 can receive free photo prints from the in-store photo booth to capture their memories.
    • Fortune Reading Experience: For those seeking cultural depth, fortune reading is available from February 13-17, 2026, between 1 PM and 5 PM. Customers can access this experience with a minimum single-receipt purchase of P2,000.
    • “Pick Your Luck at the Prosperi Tree”: Running from February 14-17, 2026, shoppers have a chance to win up to P500 worth of Robinsons Department Store Gift Certificates. This rewarding mechanic requires a minimum single-receipt purchase of P3,500.
    KV 2
    KV 3

    These activities are specifically slated for Robinsons Department Store Galleria Ortigas to raise awareness and generate in-store traffic. Whether you are a family, a group of shoppers, or a mall-goer looking for experiential retail, this campaign offers something for everyone.

    KV 4

    Follow the official pages of Robinsons Department Store on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok to get updates on the best offers for your upcoming travels.

  • Small Changes, Meaningful Impact: Watsons Encourages Sustainable Everyday Choices

    Small Changes, Meaningful Impact: Watsons Encourages Sustainable Everyday Choices

    A new year often sparks a renewed sense of purpose, from setting wellness goals to rethinking everyday habits. As more consumers look for practical ways to live more sustainably in 2026, Watsons Philippines encourages small yet meaningful switches that naturally fit into daily routines. By choosing products that care for both personal needs and the planet, starting the year right becomes easier and more intentional.

    SustainableChoice 02

    Watsons Sustainable Choices brings together thoughtfully curated products that support more responsible and sustainable everyday living.

    From handwashing and hair care to household essentials, the products we use every day play a role in shaping our environmental impact. Making sustainable choices does not require drastic changes. It simply means choosing better and more affordable options that support self-care while being more mindful of the planet, without sacrificing comfort, quality, or convenience.

    RefillPacks 01

    Watsons refill packs promote reuse by reducing plastic waste while offering customers a more value-for-money option for everyday essentials.

    Today, sustainable living is about progress, not perfection. At Watsons, this comes to life through Sustainable Choices, a curated selection of products guided by four key pillars that make greener living practical and easy to embrace:

    • Refill and Reuse prioritizes reusability through refill packs and in-store refill stations, allowing customers to keep and reuse their original containers. Refill packs are available for favorite brands and use less plastic waste while also offering better value for money. In-store refill stations are available at select branches, including SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, Pacita Complex, and select stores in BGC.
    • Clean Beauty features thoughtfully formulated products made with ingredients consumers can trust, while reducing environmental impact through more responsible product content and packaging.
    • Better Ingredients supports responsible sourcing by using materials from responsibly managed plantations and reducing virgin plastic content in non-formulated products.
    • Better Packaging focuses on using recycled materials, sustainably managed paper, and packaging designs that reduce single-use plastics to help minimize waste.

    Beyond the products on the shelf, sustainability is also reflected in Watsons’ in-store practices. The majority of Watsons stores now use paper bags as part of their transition away from plastic, while customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags when shopping. Selected stores also feature Recycle for Rewards bins, where customers can return empty personal care product bottles in exchange for discounts, helping give used packaging a second life while rewarding more mindful shopping habits.

    SustainableChoice 01

    Through accessible products and in-store initiatives, Watsons continues to empower customers to make more sustainable choices, one small step at a time.

    Through these thoughtfully curated products and in-store initiatives, Watsons shows that sustainability can be practical, achievable, and seamlessly woven into everyday life. By offering greener alternatives across personal care and household essentials, Watsons continues to be a trusted partner for consumers who want to make better choices—one small switch at a time.

    “Sustainability does not have to be complicated or out of reach. Through Sustainable Choices, we make it easier for customers to choose greener options every time they shop at Watsons, from refill packs to thoughtfully formulated products. By integrating sustainability into everyday products and in-store experiences, we empower customers to take small steps that collectively make a meaningful difference for themselves and for the planet,” said Danilo Chiong, Watsons Philippines’ Managing Director. 

    This 2026, making more sustainable choices can feel easier and more accessible. Sustainable Choices are available in over 1,200 Watsons stores nationwide and via the Watsons App, downloadable on the App Storeand Google Play, making a more sustainable lifestyle easier to embrace, one choice at a time.

  • Obesity and Diabetes Symposium Unveils New Treatment with Better Outcomes 

    Obesity and Diabetes Symposium Unveils New Treatment with Better Outcomes 

    At the much-awaited medical symposium spearheaded by Zuellig Pharma, a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, a new modality for diabetes and obesity was discussed by three internationally recognized global experts Professors Luc Van Gaal, David Cummings, and Roger Chen, to the Philippine medical community, providing them a timely deep dive into the breakthrough treatment known as dual GIP & GLP-1 receptor agonist.The Twice as BOLD symposium (Breakthroughs in Obesity, Leading Edge in Diabetes) was held last January 26, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City and welcomed doctors and medical practitioners from across the country – numbering over 2500 – underscoring how obesity and diabetes have become urgent public health concerns.

    Photo 1

    Latest data available shows that the adult prevalence of diabetes is at 7.5%, corresponding to 4.7 million adults1, with >87% are either overweight or obese.2 Moreover, 39.8% of adult Filipinos are suffering from obesity while 17.3% are overweight simply put, 6 out of 10 adults are burdened by weight problems and this puts them at 5x the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and at 2x the risk of developing coronary heart disease.

    Advancements in Type 2 Diabetes Care: The Power of Dual GIP & GLP-1 agonism and the SURPASS trials

    Prof. Cummings highlighted the complementary actions of the two incretin hormones which showed that dual agonism of GIP and GLP-1 addresses multiple pathophysiologic defects in Type 2 diabetes through central and peripheral mechanisms. These were further supported by Prof. Chen’s discussion of the SURPASS clinical trials of tirzepatide across the spectrum of Type 2 Diabetes. In particular, SURPASS-2 demonstrated that tirzepatide significantly outperformed once-weekly semaglutide (a GLP-1 receptor agonist) in adults with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled by metformin.

    The Wait is Over: From trials to triumphs, as presented by the experts 

    In a presentation that engaged the whole symposium, a patient avatar named Julia who has type 2 diabetes interacted with the experts, sharing her struggles and point of view as a patient. 

    In two separate sessions, global and Filipino experts and thought leaders uncovered breakthroughs that reshape treatments for obesity and diabetes.

    Photo 2

    Prof. David Cummings of the University of Washington and Director of the VA Puget weight management clinic, and Prof. Roger Chen, a highly experienced endocrinologist and academic from the University of Sydney, presented the key milestones of SURPASS-2, which ushered in a session of shared insights and learnings chaired by Dr. Bien Matawaran with Dr. Dante Morales providing a cardiovascular perspective.

    Surpass-2 and Julia in Focus: On the power of GIP and the role of tirzepatide

    A mirroring of Julia’s case with that of the real-life patients of the two experts were held up for study; the consensus was that all of them who had type 2 diabetes indications achieved better outcomes with tirzepatide.

    Surmount-5 and Sandee: On chronic weight management as a success indicator

    In the lecture of Professor Van Gaal, globally renowned expert in Diabetology, Obesity, and Metabolic Disorders, the SURMOUNT-58 clinical trials showed that patients achieved greater weight loss and waist circumference reduction with tirzepatide than semaglutide.8

    With the results of the landmark study as his backdrop, Prof. Van Gaal’s shared expertise on the clinical application of the new treatment deepened the attendees’ understanding of the clinical efficacy of tirzepatide for obesity. A robust exchange of insights ensued in the session chaired by Dr. Nemencio Nicodemus Jr. with Dr. Maria Adelaida Iboleon-Dy expounding vital points relevant to cardiologists.

    As the sessions progressed, Andrei, the avatar of a patient living with obesity, introduced Sandee, a real patient burdened by weight issues. Obesity has severely limited her life, causing her to face physical challenges that impact her work. Moreover, her condition has compounded her fears of developing other diseases, and she dreads who will take care of her aging mother if obesity overcomes her.

    Parallels were drawn between her case and that of the experts’ patients which showed better patient outcomes with tirzepatide.

    Photo 3

    Scientific Progress Produces Breakthrough Treatments

    Ninia Torres, General Manager of Zuellig Pharma, noted that advances in science and medicine are reshaping metabolic care and improving patient outcomes. She added, “As science and medicine advances, metabolic care that provides better patient outcomes follows. The research and development that led to the availability of the world’s first FDA-approved dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist marks a transformative chapter in metabolic care, giving patients much needed access to new treatment options beyond older therapies.”

    Forging a path forward, collaborative action against obesity and diabetes

    Medical societies also made a strong showing, following the signing of a historic partnership to unite efforts against obesity and diabetes10. These included the Philippine Society for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO), the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism (PCEDM), the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), the Institute for Studies on Diabetes Foundation Inc. (ISDFI), Diabetes Philippines (DP), and the Alliance of Clinical Endocrinologists Philippines Foundation, Inc. (ACE). 

    Advancing Evidence-Based Care in the Philippines

    The forum concluded with a consensus that the Philippines’ metabolic care must align with global scientific advances to elevate standards of care for Filipino patients.

    Led and supported by Zuellig Pharma, TWICE AS BOLD is part of its continuing medical education program that aims to make world class medical knowledge and technologies accessible to patients and doctors in the country. 

    Zuellig Pharma reinforces its mission to advance science, improve lives, and stand alongside patients in every stage of their health journey—from the first diagnosis to every small victory that follows. By ensuring access to meaningful innovations and milestone medicines like tirzepatide, Zuellig Pharma helps ensure a future where more patients can experience genuine transformation and renewed quality of life.