7-Eleven, the Philippines’ leading convenience store, has always been a go-to destination for essentials, quick snacks, and affordable meals for all Filipinos. This familiarity is thanks to the delightful years spent with the 7-Eleven community spanning over four decades.
What started as one store in Kamias cor EDSA, Quezon City in 1984 gradually grew to nine humble branches in 1989, now has over 3,700 stores nationwide, celebrating its 40th anniversary. Over the years, each branch has become a community hub for shared experiences—meeting landmarks, date places, or just regular hangout spots.
In those four decades, 7-Eleven also came up with iconic treats such as Big Bite, Slurpee, and GULP to treat everyone’s taste buds to a delicious, yet affordable delight. They also partnered with reputable brands such as Romantic Baboy, Lugang Café, Manam, Pancake House, and so many others to bring quality meals more available for all.
Aside from these, the brand also evolved to be a trusted digital services provider with its CLIQQ app wherein customers can purchase items cashless, earn points, and more. ATMs are also present at most branches so customers can easily withdraw or inquire their balances as well as e-wallet services for top-ups and bills payment. 7-Eleven is loved all over the country because they have been consistently providing that signature convenience as the country’s paboritong kapitbahay.
To mark this momentous 40th year, and as a nod to the vibrant community that grew over the decades, 7-Eleven is celebrating being forty-gether kasama ang paborito mong kapitbahay with exciting promos and discounts.
Kickstarting the festivities is a sweet treat from City Cafe, where coffee-loving customers can sip and savor a medium cup for only P40 on February 29, 2024. Those with a penchant for the iconic Big Bite will also appreciate a delectable P10 discount from Tender Juicy when they pair a Big Bite TJ hotdog with a red drink (GULP medium, C2 Apple 355ml, and Sting Strawberry 320ml) from February 14 to March 12, 2024. Lastly, 7-Eleven loyal customers can unlock a treasure trove of savings with up to 50% off on selected beverages, and snacks such as Kopiko Lucky Day PET 180ml on February 29 only; Lays Cheddar & Sour Cream 170g and Gardenia Chocolate Muffin on February 29 to March 2. Customers can also expect big savings in other items such as Snail White Whipp Soap 100g, Absolut Vodka 700ml and Selecta Pint Double Dutch 450ml (BUY 2, SAVE P40) until March 19, 2024. Truly, nothing beats spending milestones together because 7-Eleven makes every trip to the store guaranteed tipid and sulit.
As the celebrations roll in, the 40th anniversary celebrations are set to amplify all there is to love about the brand that everyone grew up with. The 7-Eleven community can expect year-round thrilling payday sale events and exciting e-raffle promos where they can bag incredible prizes like dreamy travel opportunities, latest gadgets, and so many more.
Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok, and visit our website www.7-eleven.com.ph for more information.
SM Supermalls in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) strengthened their long-standing partnership to once again transform malls into venues of opportunity, hope, and new beginnings through the nationwide Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs mounted across 20 SM malls nationwide, bringing together over 800 employers and over 21,000 job seekers, with more than 1,900 hired on the spot—highlighting the continued impact of accessible, community-based employment initiatives that help Filipinos move forward.
SM in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) hosted the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs throughout SM’s nationwide network of most-loved malls
Enhanced Community Opportunities: On top of connecting over 21,000 jobseekers to 800 employers all over the country, the SM-hosted Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs also shared future-ready skills to attendees through upskilling opportunities.
From fresh graduates and first-time job seekers to career shifters and experienced professionals—Filipinos gathered at SM malls this June 12 in search of meaningful employment opportunities, many of whom were interviewed and hired on the spot.
(L-R) Pasig Coun. Hon. Angelou De Leon(in black); Dennis Martel; Dannah Majarocon, Jobstreet by Seek; Martin Jesse Hererra, SM Regional Operations Manager; Pats Dy, Senior Asst. Vice President for SM Communities Marketing; Ronald Allan Brosas SM Senior Asst. Vice President for Operations; Royce Cabunag, Asst. Vice President and Lead for SM Communities; Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto; Pasig Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski; Councilor Simon Tantoco(in black); Councilor Boyie Raymundo; Councilor Ryan Enriquez; Councilor Warren Incencio; and Councilor Paul Senogat with representatives from SM, the Pasig city LGU, and Government sectors
By combining DOLE’s extensive labor network and employment programs with SM’s accessible community spaces, the collaboration succeeded in empowering local communities—bringing jobs, crucial government support services, and future-ready skills directly to the doorsteps of everyday Filipinos. This year’s Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM’s growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills.
“Samantalahin natin ang lahat nang programa ng pamahalaan lalo na’t habang nandito tayo. Sa SM maraming salamat–ang importante nagtutulungan po tayong lahat at ginagawa natin ang lahat nang ating makakaya,” said Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.
“By partnering with the private sector, mas naging convergent ang ating approach para mas maibigay ang serbisyo ng pamahalaan sa ating mga kababayan. Maganda ang pakiramdam na makita ang ganitong turnout at pagkakaisa lalo na ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan,” shared Ryan Roberto Delos Reyes, Supervising Labor Employment Officer of DOLE NCR.
For Patrick Tamayo, who secured a position as a Mobile Promoter, the opportunity meant being able to help his family.
“Masaya po ako na hired-on-the-spot ako. Matutulungan ko na po ang pamilya ko. Hindi ko po inaasahan na mabilis po ako matatanggap,” he said.
For Ma. Jamaica Pabunan, Independence Day became more than a celebration—it became an answered prayer. “Naghahanap po talaga ako ng trabaho kaya pinagdasal ko po talaga na matanggap ako and answered prayer po,” she shared after being hired on the spot as a Pharmacy Assistant. “Pangalawang job fair ko po itong napuntahan, pero iba po dito sa SM, organized po talaga.”
Their stories were among the many success stories that unfolded during the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, mounted nationwide by SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
A Partnership That Creates Opportunities The success of the initiative reflects the enduring partnership between SM Supermalls and DOLE, united by a shared mission of making employment opportunities more accessible to Filipinos.
By combining DOLE’s labor programs and employment network with SM’s nationwide presence and community reach, the partnership continues to bring jobs, government services, and workforce development opportunities closer to where people live.Across participating malls, applicants explored opportunities from industries such as retail, banking, IT-BPO, hospitality, logistics, food service, education, healthcare, and customer service. Through face-to-face interviews, employers were able to connect directly with qualified candidates while applicants gained immediate access to job openings. For participating employers, the event also provided an opportunity to support a larger cause. “We joined the job fair not just to fill available positions but also to be part of SM’s advocacy this Araw ng Kalayaan. We know there are many Filipinos looking for opportunities,” shared Hermie, Talent Acquisition Specialist of Home Credit. Lisa, Assistant Human Resource Manager of Mesco, Inc., echoed the importance of bringing multiple employers together in one accessible venue. “It’s an opportunity for jobseekers to see and apply to different industries in one place. Mas malaking chances for jobseekers,” she said.
From Job Fair to Career Growth Hub
This year’s Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM’s growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills. In partnership with TESDA, DICT, Jobstreet, and other stakeholders, selected venues featured learning opportunities in AI prompting, cybersecurity awareness, Canva basics, digital skills, and livelihood development programs.
“Here at SM Job Fairs, we promote the freedom to grow, the freedom to upskill, and the freedom to find the job that suits you,” said Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK. The impact of these learning opportunities extended beyond employment. For Rhodora Felipe of Pasig, learning how to create doormats and potholders opened new possibilities to support her family. “Malaking tulong po itong skills na ito sa amin dahil pwede kong gamitin ito para makatulong sa gastusin at baon ng mga bata,” she shared. Linalyn Calingasan, another participant, hopes to turn her newly learned skills into a livelihood opportunity with support from local partners.
More Than a Job Search
To make the experience more convenient, SM Job Fairs also featured a One-Stop Government Service Express through participating agencies such as SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, NBI, PESO, and other institutional partners. Applicants were able to process employment requirements, seek guidance, and access support services in a single venue—saving both time and resources. This integrated approach reflects the continuing evolution of SM Job Fairs from traditional recruitment events into community platforms that connect Filipinos not only to jobs, but also to skills, services, and opportunities for long-term growth.
Creating Real Impact Nationwide Mounted simultaneously across SM malls nationwide, the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs demonstrated the power of public-private collaboration in creating meaningful opportunities for Filipino communities. Behind every application submitted, every interview conducted, and every job offer extended is a story of determination, hope, and aspiration.
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Power in public-private partnerships: Through the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, SM supports the DOLE’s efforts to extend employment opportunities to Filipinos all over the country through ease and convenience
For some, it meant securing their first job. For others, it meant starting over, supporting a family, or discovering new skills that could open additional sources of income. These are the stories behind the more than 1,900 hired-on-the-spot applicants—and the reason why SM Supermalls and DOLE continue to strengthen their partnership year after year. Because freedom is not only celebrated—it is empowered through opportunities. And when opportunities are brought closer to communities, lives are changed, families are uplifted, and the nation moves forward.
More Opportunities Ahead
For those who were unable to attend the June 12 Independence Day Job Fair, SM Supermalls continues to mount job fairs year-round across malls nationwide—bringing opportunities closer to communities every month.
JOB FAIR SCHEDULE IN JUNE:
June 16 – 17 – SM City Novaliches (QC University Job Fair)
June 16 – 17 – SM City Iloilo (ICT companies)
June 17 – SM City Calamba
June 18 – SM City Bacolod
June 18 – SM City Daet
June 19 – SM City Baliwag (NU Job Fair)
June 25 – SM City Trece Martires
June 27 – SM City Bataan (Trabaho at Negosyo)
June 30 – SM Center Muntinlupa
Note: Schedule may change without prior notice. For updates, visit SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls on social media.
The partnership marks a major step in the Filipino indie rock band’s international expansion, with festival appearances in Mongolia and Vietnam
Acclaimed Filipino indie rock quartet ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has officially signed to The Rest Is Noise (TRIN) for global management.
Under the agreement, TRIN will oversee the band’s international bookings and management activities outside the Philippines, including artist development, touring, brand partnerships, synchronization and licensing opportunities, and other commercial and professional ventures aimed at expanding ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s presence in global markets. The partnership will be undertaken in collaboration with the band’s manager, Eezh Arcangel.
The official announcement arrives alongside a slate of major international festival appearances for the band, including performances at Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a forthcoming festival in Vietnam this July 2026.
The signing represents a progression for both parties, following a year of collaboration through regional showcase festivals, music export initiatives, and international industry networking programs spearheaded by TRIN, OCS, and their manager, Eezh.
“After facilitating numerous export initiatives for Filipino music artists to connect with not just audiences but also music industry professionals abroad since 2018, we have decided to take it one step further with working on artist development and management for global markets,” said MC Galang, co-founder of The Rest Is Noise PH. “We felt there’s still a huge gap between what we consider ‘export-ready’ artists—those who are ready for and have elicited interest from international markets—and these new audiences, which require a lot of investment, strategy, planning, and meaningful connections. Since the Philippines is still considered an ‘emerging’ market, we have to actively pursue, if not create, these opportunities.”
MC emphasized that ONE CLICK STRAIGHT meets all the criteria for being an export-ready artist—thanks to “their strong catalog, incredible stage presence, their ability to deliver a curated experience that can be translated not just for Filipino audiences but across various audiences, and an expansive creative and sonic arsenal.”
She explains, “It was clear during their massively well-received performance at our annual showcase festival, AXEAN Festival, held in Bali last year, that they have impressed our delegates—important players in key international markets—which brought them to more festival appearances at Music Lane Festival in Japan and Bangkok Music City in Thailand; at All of the Noise here in Manila; in Singapore before that, through our partnership with Baybeats Festival; and two more festivals in July: Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a yet-to-be-announced appearance in Vietnam later next month. We look forward to helping ONE CLICK STRAIGHT reach these new opportunities as we continue our work platforming Filipino music artists around the world.”
With international shows on the horizon, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Tim Marquez shared his excitement in bringing the band’s music to new audiences and connecting with diverse cultures around the world. He hopes their songs, stories, and live performances will continue to inspire listeners across borders. “I think it’s a humbling feeling to know the music you’ve created in such a small and personal space is resonating in different places. I firmly believe that Filipino music deserves to be heard, and I’m just grateful to the people who listen.”
Echoing Tim’s sentiments, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Sam Marquez expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead through the band’s growing international presence and partnership with The Rest Is Noise. “The Rest is Noise has been so helpful guiding and supporting us through our international journey. We’re always looking forward to learning new things with them. Their passion mirrors ours, and that’s the kind of collaboration we want with us on this journey.”
Over the past decade, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has emerged as one of the country’s most respected independent acts. Composed of brothers Sam Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, bass), and Tim Marquez (drums, vocals, songwriter), alongside longtime collaborator and friend Joel Cartera (Jpapi) on guitar, the band has independently released two full-length albums and two EPs, collectively amassing more than 20 million streams on Spotify alone.
Their music and live performances have taken them across the Philippines and onto international stages, earning recognition from leading music publications and tastemakers from the Asian region.
The influential Filipino alternative rock outfit marks its comeback with original music and an intimate one-night-only concert this August 2026
Barbie’s Cradle, one of the Philippines’ most iconic alternative bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are set to stage their highly anticipated comeback this year.
Fronted by lead vocalist and guitarist Barbie Almalbis and composed of members Wendell Garcia on drums, Rommel dela Cruz on bass, and Kakoy Legaspi on guitars, the multi-awarded supergroup will return with the release of three new songs, culminating in a special one-night-only concert on August 1, 2026, at the Music Museum.
“We’re excited to revisit the greatest hits and misses while also sharing new songs that reflect where we are now in our lives both as musicians and human beings,” shares Barbie Almalbis. “We’ve reached a point where we approach music-making with greater confidence and purpose. This new body of work is more collaborative and intentional than ever. We’ve poured months of hard work into these songs, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.”
Known for award-winning albums such as Barbie’s Cradle, Music from the Buffet Table, and Playing in the Fields, the band has remained deeply influential in the local music scene, particularly for woman-fronted bands and singer-songwriters. Their evolving sound, introspective and inspirational songwriting and lyrical depth, shaped by the personal journey of vocalist Barbie Almalbis, continue to appeal to audiences across generations. Over the years, the group has earned multiple recognitions, including NU Rock Awards, Awit Awards, and KATHA Awards.
Barbie Almalbis: One Night Only is presented by GNN, a Manila-based concert and events promoter. According to Milley Habito, one of the heads behind the production company, the comeback concert represents not only a nostalgic dream for longtime fans but also an important cultural moment for today’s music audience.
“It’s an honor to work with Barbie’s Cradle for this special project,” explains Habito. “We first teased the iteration of the show during Barbie Almalbis’ 25th anniversary show three years ago, but this time, we’re taking the concert experience to an entirely new level. Staged in a theater setting, the concert is built around a meticulously crafted concept and theme, with elevated production values designed to create a memorable experience for fans and new listeners alike.”
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), through its collecting Ministries, Offices, and Agencies, will soon introduce a more convenient way for constituents to pay government fees and complete transactions following a new partnership between the Bangsamoro Treasury Office (BTO), a sectoral office under the Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Management, and GCash.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving access to public services by providing a digital platform that connects government services directly to constituents, making transactions simpler, faster, and more accessible across the region.
Payment processes have largely remained traditional, with many transactions still done manually and requiring constituents to visit field offices to complete them. For those in remote and far-flung areas, this often results in additional time, cost, and inconvenience.
As emphasized by Minister Ubaida C. Pacasem of the Ministry of Finance and Budget and Management—BARMM, “The partnership between the BTO and GCash is a powerful vehicle for change, and we are fully committed to steering it toward success. We are ready to do the work today, tomorrow, and in the years to come,” she added.
The Bangsamoro Treasury Office’s initiative to introduce digital payment channels aims to address these challenges by bringing services closer to communities while ensuring that proper guidelines and controls are observed.
“Bangsamoro Treasury Office acknowledges that this partnership is an important step not only in strengthening our collection systems, but also in guiding Bangsamoro Ministries, Offices, and Agencies as we encourage the adoption of digital payment options to serve communities across BARMM better,” said Chief Naila Z. Dimaraw, Bangsamoro treasurer.
“At its core, this initiative is about financial inclusion. We know the realities of our geography. Across the mainland and island provinces, access to traditional banking infrastructure has long been a challenge. By partnering with GCash, we are embracing a more mobile future for public service delivery, bridging the gap and enabling constituents to pay fees, taxes, and other dues more conveniently, without the need for long travel or waiting in line,” the Bangsamoro treasurer chief added.
GCash remains committed to contributing to the Bangsamoro Government’s efforts to promote financial inclusion and strengthen the efficiency of revenue collection. The partnership also highlights how digital tools can make it easier for citizens to engage with Bangsamoro Ministries, Offices, and Agencies, fostering a more seamless and citizen-centered service experience.
“GCash recognizes the priorities, systems, and the needs of the communities of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, Head of GCash Public Sector. “We stand ready to support where we are most needed—empowering institutions, enhancing service delivery, and helping build a more inclusive, citizen-centered digital ecosystem for the Bangsamoro Government and its people,” she added.
As digital adoption continues to grow, this collaboration marks a step toward a more accessible and responsive government—where public services are easier to access and better aligned with the everyday needs of communities.
Manila, Philippines (May 2026) – The Macaulay Club, Sun Life Philippines’ club for top-performing financial advisors, reaffirmed its commitment to giving back with a PHP 1.6 million donation to SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas.
A handover ceremony was held at the SOS Children’s Village Manila in Muntinlupa City to mark the donation, which will support SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas’ crucial work of providing nurturing homes to abandoned children and supporting disadvantaged families. The contribution was facilitated with the help of Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation).
Gracing the ceremony were Sun Life Philippines Chief Distribution Officer Al Quitangon, Macaulay Club President Raul Glenn Cuevo, and SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas National Director Romil Rayos Del Sol.
The Macaulay Club is no stranger to supporting noble causes. In recent years, it has contributed to development initiatives including a school nutrition program and the installation of solar-powered lighting systems in remote off-grid schools.
“The Sun Life advisors’ promise to help Filipinos build a brighter future extends to the wider community, and this donation embodies their deep commitment to uplifting lives and empowering the vulnerable,” said Quitangon. “We are grateful to join hands with SOS Pilipinas in building a brighter future for these children.”
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Macaulay Club of Sun Life for their generous donation,” said Rayos Del Sol. “Your commitment goes beyond financial aid; it sends a powerful message to our children that there are people who care about their future.”
As the first and longest-standing life insurance company in the country, Sun Life Philippines aims to be the Filipino people’s partner in building a healthy and prosperous nation, enabling holistic education, health, and environment programs through its philanthropic arm, Sun Life Foundation.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (May 2026) – For more than three years, Sun Life Philippines, in cooperation with the Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. and global sport for social change foundation Beyond Sport, has been championing healthier, more active lifestyles among Filipino youth through its Hoops + Health program – using the power of basketball to drive long-term well-being.
This year, the program reached a new milestone with the renovation and reopening of the Bagong Pag-asa ng Taguig Homeowners Association, Inc. (BPTHAI) Basketball Court in Taguig, giving young athletes in the community a safe space to play, grow, and stay active. The refurbished court – which features upgraded flooring, hoops, and facilities – now serves as a hub for youth development and community engagement.
The reopening was marked by a vibrant community event that brought together young players, coaches, and volunteers. Participants took part in basketball clinics covering shooting, ball handling, and defense, alongside exhibition performances, friendly competitions, and a 3×3 mini tournament. Guest athletes and Sun Life volunteers – including its leaders, advisors, and employees – joined in the celebration, reinforcing the shared commitment to empowering the next generation through sport.
“Filipinos have always been passionate about basketball as this has become a shared experience across generations,” said Joy Castillo, Chief Operating Officer of Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. and President of the Sun Life Foundation. “By tapping into this love for the sport, we aim to inspire the youth to adopt healthier habits that they can carry with them for life.”
Since its launch in 2023, Hoops + Health has gone beyond clinics and games. Through collaborations with community groups, coaches, and health professionals, the program integrates lessons on fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness into engaging, accessible experiences for young Filipinos.
For over 130 years, Sun Life has remained committed to nation-building – going beyond financial security to support the overall well-being of Filipinos, especially the youth. Through initiatives like Hoops + Health, the company aims to empower the next generation to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following @sunlifeph on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Sun Life representatives and lifestyle influencers at the Sun Day Collective preview event held at Longevity Labs
MANILA, PH – June 2026 – Sun Life Philippines invites Filipinos to step into a new kind of wellness experience with Sun Day Collective, happening on June 28, 2026, at Ayala Car-Free Sundays in Makati.
Sun Day Collective is Sun Life’s latest platform designed to bring wellness into everyday life, combining physical activity, recovery, and social connection in a way that feels accessible, inclusive, and community driven.
Anchored on Sun Life’s Live Bright Now campaign, Sun Day Collective reflects the brand’s belief that living brighter starts with taking care of both your financial future and your overall well-being today. While Sun Life has long championed financial literacy, it has always advocated a more holistic approach to living well – one that includes health, protection, and everyday habits that support a brighter life.
At the heart of the June 28 experience is a thoughtfully curated morning that moves participants through three key elements: running, rhythm, and reset. The event will feature a community run led by various run clubs, offering different pace groups to accommodate participants of all fitness levels.
Beyond running, attendees can explore movement sessions such as rope flow and hula hoop, alongside recovery experiences including cold plunge in collaboration with Longevity Labs, and wellness-focused activities designed to help participants recharge and recalibrate. Lifestyle spaces will also be available, creating opportunities for attendees to slow down, connect, and enjoy the morning with like-minded individuals.
Adding to the excitement, Sun Life has teamed up with Enimal, a leading Philippine-based independent lifestyle and apparel brand, to create exclusive Sun Day Collective merchandise. As part of the June 28
experience, eventgoers will get a chance to win a limited-edition Sun Day Collective x Enimal shirt and a Sun Day Collective x Enimal running equipment rubber bag, designed exclusively for the launch season. This collaboration brings together wellness and style, giving participants something tangible to remember the event by.
Participants will also have the chance to win two tickets to watch a Grammy Award-winning artist at the Sun Life Premier Suite in SM Mall of Asia Arena on October 26, 2026, offering a premium lifestyle experience that complements the brand’s commitment to helping Clients enjoy life today while preparing for the future.
“Sun Day Collective is about creating simple, real ways for people to live bright now,” said Carla Gonzalez Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “It’s where movement, recovery, and connection come together in a way that feels natural and enjoyable, whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or already living an active lifestyle.”
Following its Makati launch, Sun Day Collective will expand through a series of community activations across different cities from July to October, in collaboration with run clubs and wellness groups nationwide. These activations aim to make wellness more accessible while building a stronger, more connected fitness and lifestyle community across the Philippines.
By bringing these experiences closer to Filipinos across the country, Sun Life reinforces its commitment to helping people live brighter lives, not only by securing their financial future, but also by supporting their overall well-being today.
Join Sun Day Collective on June 28 and be part of a growing community that moves, connects, and lives bright now.
To learn more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following @sunlifeph on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
At the prestigious Gintong Kalasag Awards, the top tier of the Philippine Life Insurance Awards (PhiLIAA), Sun Life Philippines delivered a strong performance with five of the Top 10 life insurance advisors in the country coming from its advisory force.
Recognized based on annualized premium were Sun Life advisors Raul Glenn Cuevo, Owdylyn Lee, Rallph Jhan Aaronne Monzon, Salvador Valbuena, and Adelina Villacorte, who secured spots among the nation’s top-performing advisors, based on their 2025 production figures.
Organized by the Life Underwriters Association of the Philippines (LUAP), PhiLIAA is the first nationwide recognition program for life insurance advisors in the Philippines. It features three categories, with the Gintong Kalasag Award regarded as the most prestigious, given to the Top 10 life insurance advisors in the country.
“It is with much pride that we congratulate our advisors recognized in the Gintong Kalasag Awards,” says Alfonso Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life. “This achievement reflects their dedication to helping Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. It also serves as an inspiration to others in the industry who share in this important mission”
Since its launch in 2022, the Gintong Kalasag Awards have consistently recognized Sun Life advisors among the country’s top performers. In 2024, the company recorded its strongest showing, with nine out of 10 awardees coming from Sun Life.
For more information about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
MANILA, PH – June 2026 – Rising living costs are reshaping how Filipinos manage their money, often at the expense of long-term financial security.
This was the pressing reality underscored in Sun Life’s latest Financial Resilience Index 2026. The study reveals that while Filipino households continue to meet their day-to-day needs, confidence in their financial future is weakening. The proportion of highly resilient households dropped significantly from 33% to 19%, reflecting a shift toward more vulnerable financial positions.
With 95% of Filipinos saying inflation has made it harder to cover monthly expenses, the findings highlight how cost pressures are influencing both financial behavior and mindset. Essential expenses such as utilities (99%), transportation fuel and groceries (98%), cooking fuel (97%), and healthcare (95%) are driving this strain.
Short-term decisions, long-term impact
The study shows that many Filipinos are making short-term adjustments to cope with rising costs – decisions that may impact future financial stability. About 22% report drawing down their savings, 30% are reducing or skipping essential spending, and 9% have paused retirement contributions.
As a result, overall financial preparedness remains limited. Only 7% of Filipinos feel very financially secure, and just 24% say they can sustain themselves for more than six months without income.
Managing daily expenses has now become the top financial priority for more than half of respondents over the next 12 months, surpassing saving and long-term planning.
Building resilience starts with knowledge and planning
Sun Life’s latest study highlights financial literacy and long-term planning as key drivers of resilience. Filipinos with higher financial literacy are significantly more prepared for rising costs and more confident about their financial future.
Those who plan ahead are also more than three times as likely to feel confident in achieving their long term goals, yet only 22% of Filipinos currently have financial plans that extend beyond five years.
Digital tools are also playing an increasingly important role in financial decision-making. The Index shows that 52% of Filipinos now use generative AI for financial guidance, with 65% expecting their usage to grow in the next year.
While technology offers convenience and accessibility, respondents continue to value human advice – particularly for more complex, long-term financial decisions.
Empowering Filipinos to Live Bright Now
“These findings reinforce why empowering Filipinos to take control of their financial journey matters now more than ever,” said JJ Moreno, Country Head and CEO of Sun Life Philippines. “As Sun Life marks Financial Independence Month this June, we reiterate our commitment to helping Filipinos become more financially resilient.”
For Financial Independence Month, Sun Life is rolling out a series of initiatives throughout June, designed to help Filipinos build better habits and take action towards a more financially secure and healthier future:
• FinLit Fridays featuring Donny Pangilinan: Bite-sized financial education content aimed at making money conversations more relatable and easier to understand.
• Sun Day Collective: Community events that bring together wellness and financial empowerment in accessible, engaging ways. The launch event will happen on June 28, 2026, from 6:00AM – 10:00AM at Ayala Car-Free Sundays in Makati.
• Stories to Live Bright Now: A new video series highlighting real Client journeys, including business owners and overseas Filipino workers, and how they are building resilience • Financial Literacy Content from Influencers: Practical and relatable money content from Jax Reyes, Jan Ocampo (The Present PH), and Nicole Alba, aimed at helping Filipinos take control of their finances through everyday insights and actionable tips
• Employee Diaries: A content series featuring real employees sharing the practical ways they manage their finances
• Shine Pinoy Moments: A spotlight on the stories of Overseas Filipino workers, celebrating their resilience and commitment to securing their families’ financial futures
Through these initiatives, Sun Life aims to make financial conversations more accessible, relatable, and actionable. Catch these content series on Sun Life Philippines’ Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/SunLifePH
“Financial independence is not achieved overnight,” Moreno added. “It is built through consistent, informed decisions. Sun Life is here to help them strengthen their financial knowledge and provide the right guidance, so Filipinos can live brighter today while building for tomorrow.”
View the Philippines findings of the Sun Life Asia Financial Resilience Index here 2026: www.sunlife.co/FinancialResilienceIndex2026
To learn more about how Sun Life can help you live bright now, visit www.sunlife.co/LiveBrightNow. Stay updated by following @sunlifeph on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Jollibee surprises commuters nationwide with glowed up Yumburger
Thousands of commuters at major transport hubs and shopping centers across the Philippines were met with an unexpected treat as Jollibee launched its upgraded iconic Yumburger. The Yumburger now has a bigger beef patty and more dressing, making it more Langhap-Sarap while still priced at ₱45.
From office workers to students, many took the chance to try the improved Yumburger, making their usual trips a little more exciting. Crowds gathered at One Ayala in Makati, The Infinity in Pampanga, Paseo de Santa Rosa in Laguna, Parkmall in Cebu, and Rizal Park in Davao. Jollibee gave away 2,000 free Yumburgers at each location, plus 4,000 vouchers to try an exclusive combo in stores.
“Filipino commuters have always loved the Jollibee Yumburger, so we thought this was the perfect way to bring them a little extra joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Our Yumburger is not just a burger, but a part of Filipino life and cherished memories. With this glow-up, it is more Langhap-Sarap, giving comfort and happiness in every bite while staying affordable for everyone.”
Adding to the excitement, the Yum mascot delighted commuters at each location, posing for photos, handing out burgers, and energizing the surprise giveaways.
Also, Jollibee released a new film featuring the glowed-up Yumburger and encourages customers to share their #GlowUpYUM moments on social media for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.
The nationwide activity highlighted Jollibee’s commitment to giving Filipinos more of what they love, making a familiar favorite even better and more enjoyable.
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!
