Product Showcase
Manulife China Bank Life expands access to cancer care solutions
As part of the program, eligible customers will have access to Guardant Health’s Shield multi-cancer detection (MCD) laboratory developed test (LDT), following Manulife’s exclusive partnership with Guardant Health announced earlier this year. The offering will also soon be available through Manulife Philippines.
Manulife China Bank Life (MCBL), the strategic alliance between Manulife Philippines and China Banking Corporation, is expanding access to cancer care solutions through ManulifeMOVE Cancer Care, a program designed to help customers take a more proactive approach to their health and support longer, healthier lives.
As part of the program, eligible customers will have access to Guardant Health’s Shield multi-cancer detection (MCD) laboratory developed test (LDT), following Manulife’s exclusive partnership with Guardant Health announced earlier this year. The offering will also soon be available through Manulife Philippines.
Under Manulife’s exclusive partnership with Guardant Health, Inc. a leading precision oncology company—Manulife became the first insurer in Asia to offer the Shield MCD test to customers in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. The program expands access to innovative, proven health solutions at a time when cancer remains one of the country’s top causes of death and a significant barrier to longevity for Filipino families. This partnership aligns with the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global research, thought leadership, innovation, advocacy, and community investment platform that aims to advance action on helping people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.
This program is powered by Manulife’s partnership with AC Health, a leading integrated healthcare network in the Philippines. At the heart of the network is Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH)—the Philippines’ first dedicated and comprehensive cancer hospital. This collaboration between the parties brings together Manulife’s ambition to become the most trusted partner for health, wealth, and longevity, HCCH’s expertise across the full spectrum of cancer care from early cancer detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment and survivorship, and Guardant Health’s commitment to helping individuals live longer and healthier lives through blood-based cancer testing.
“Far too many Filipino families are confronted with life‑altering decisions only after cancer is detected too late, when options are limited and financial pressures intensify,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “By bringing Shield MCD to eligible customers of Manulife Philippines and MCBL, we’re helping move that decision point earlier by encouraging timely medical conversations and better-informed choices. This can help reduce treatment complexity and cost over time, while we strengthen health and longevity outcomes for more Filipinos.”
With just a blood draw, the Shield MCD test screens for 10 of the most common cancers, many of which have high mortality rates in Asia and the Philippines. The test received Breakthrough Device Designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2025.
“We are proud to deepen our partnership with Manulife by bringing the Shield MCD test to their customers in the Philippines,” said Simranjit Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Guardant Health AMEA. “Cancer remains one of the most pressing health challenges for Filipinos, and Shield MCD offers a powerful new way to tackle this—detecting multiple cancers through a single blood draw. This collaboration underscores our shared dedication to putting innovative health solutions within reach, and we look forward to the difference we can make together in the Philippines.”
“Wider access to early, convenient screening can help more Filipino families take a proactive approach to their health and support their journey toward longer, healthier lives,” said Amy Gochuico, President and Chief Executive Officer, MCBL. “Through our extensive bancassurance network, we are helping bring innovations like Shield MCD closer to more communities, supporting a more proactive and continuous approach to cancer care.”
“We believe one of the greatest opportunities in cancer care is identifying risk and disease earlier, before symptoms appear and treatment becomes more complex,” said Dr. Ramy Roxas, Chief Operating Officer of Healthway Cancer Care Hospital. “We strongly encourage Filipinos to be proactive about their health and participate in appropriate cancer screening, as early detection can significantly improve outcomes and expand treatment options. At Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, our goal is to support patients across the entire cancer journey—from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.”
Eligible customers of MCBL, and soon, of Manulife Philippines, will be contacted by their financial advisor or financial sales associate to learn more about the Shield MCD test.
Product Showcase
Fullerton Health celebrates two years of advancing preventive healthcare in PH
As more Filipino professionals navigate increasingly demanding careers and lifestyles, preventive healthcare is becoming less of an afterthought and more of a necessity.
From routine executive health screenings to proactive wellness programs, a growing number of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and working professionals are prioritizing early detection and long-term health management as part of their everyday lives. The shift reflects a broader understanding that staying productive, achieving personal goals, and maintaining overall well-being require more than treating illnesses when they arise—they require preventing them in the first place.
This evolving mindset is something Fullerton Health Philippines has witnessed firsthand.
Now celebrating their second anniversary, the organization continues to champion preventive healthcare as an essential part of modern living, helping more Filipinos take proactive steps toward better health through executive health screening, advanced diagnostics, and personalized wellness solutions.
“Our mission has always been to empower individuals to take control of their health before illnesses develop or progress. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on helping more people live fuller, healthier lives through preventive care,” said Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Fullerton Health Philippines.
The growing emphasis on prevention has fueled Fullerton Health Philippines’ growth over the past two years. Since opening its doors, the organization has established itself as a trusted partner in executive health by combining advanced diagnostic capabilities, efficient patient experiences, and comprehensive health screening programs designed to offer efficient, fast, and seamless preventive healthcare experience.
A significant highlight in Fullerton Health Philippines’ journey this year was the recognition received at the Healthcare Asia Awards 2026, where they were honored as Specialty Clinic of the Year (Executive Health) – Philippines. The award recognizes the organization’s excellence in executive health screening, mainly in offering advanced diagnostic imaging technologies, evidence-based healthcare practices, and patient-centered care designed to support early detection and better health outcomes.
Fullerton Health Philippines has also expanded access through strategic partnerships with major HMO providers, healthcare organizations, and digital health platforms, making executive health screening more convenient for more Filipinos.
The company has also broadened its preventive health offerings through initiatives such as packages bundled with wellness perks that is also attractive for medical tourism, reflecting its belief that long-term well-being is supported by both preventive healthcare and holistic wellness experiences, as well as offering discounts in partnership with major payment networks to provide a more affordable option for Filipinos.
With this, Fullerton Health Philippines continues to receive consistent five-star reviews from clients. The strong satisfaction ratings reinforce the company’s position as a trusted partner in
preventive healthcare.
For Founder and Chairman of COL Financial Group, Inc., Edward K. Lee, preventive healthcare is an essential investment in maintaining both personal well-being and the ability to lead with confidence.
“Running a business means making decisions that prepare you for the future, and I believe the same mindset should apply to your health. Undergoing regular executive health screenings means I’m taking proactive steps to stay healthy for myself, my family, and the people who depend on me,” said Lee.
Similarly, President of Upgrade Energy Philippines Inc., Ruth Yu-Owen, who balances leadership responsibilities in the renewable energy sector while championing initiatives that create opportunities for Filipino women, sees preventive healthcare as an important part of sustaining both her personal well-being and professional pursuits.
“Being able to undergo a thorough health check-up provides me with the opportunity to improve my diet and make necessary lifestyle changes. Most importantly, it gives me peace of mind,” she shared.
These personal experiences reflect a broader shift toward proactive healthcare, where prevention becomes a cornerstone of long-term wellness rather than a response to illness.
Guided by its advocacy to help individuals to Live Fuller, Fullerton Health Philippines continues to champion a future where preventive healthcare is not just an option, but an integral part of everyday life.
Product Showcase
New IKEA PS Collection brings playful functionality into your home
With the pairing of Scandinavian design DNA, IKEA’s democratic design philosophy and sense of fun, the result — starting with the first PS Collection in 1995 — is a collection of playful forms and practical living.
Experts agree that emotional design is the difference between a house that simply functions and a home that makes you smile, creates connections, and moments to remember. It’s the lamp that infuses soft lighting in the bedroom when you read the kids a bedtime story, the utility cart that holds their crayons and drawings, the chair where you relax after a long day.
IKEA agrees with this philosophy and brings it to life with its new PS Collection. With the pairing of Scandinavian design DNA, IKEA’s democratic design philosophy and sense of fun, the result — starting with the first PS Collection in 1995 — is a collection of playful forms and practical living.
Considered as the “experimental playground” for the past 26 years, the collection has had nine editions released since then, each one exploring the future of Scandinavian design and producing some of IKEA’s most loved and enduring pieces.
In 2026’s modern spaces, the PS collection — the tenth edition — centers on useful, functional designs that give you what you need with an unexpected element of playfulness. Think an inflatable chair in bright green with chrome framing; a table clock that looks like a periscope to fire up the imagination; a chair that seems like a plywood puzzle that you solved; and so many more pieces — more than 30 pieces, will be available at the IKEA store in Mall of Asia and online.
Without losing their main function, the pieces were designed to have that happy duty to make people feel good too. “Less is more, simple but not a bore” is evident in the striking aesthetics, playful innovation and, equally important, the commitment to bring these pieces to the many in new ways.
IKEA’s famous and super affordable rice-paper pendant lamp, for instance, is now a half-moon lamp that’s almost three feet in size, casting soft glow to any room; the usual layered utility cart for decor and serving snacks now comes in a fun shade of blue with circular trays; storage solutions are made more stylish via the pink glass cabinet and multipurpose rattan ottoman. Each PS Collection piece brings a sense of spontaneity to any room.
With IKEA’s new PS Collection, spaces become playgrounds for kids, furniture pieces turn into memorable moments in the family’s history, and everyone becomes part of what the future of emotional, joyful design looks like.
Visit IKEA Pasay at Mall of Asia or log on to ikea.com.ph to shop online.
Product Showcase
Century Tuna Superbods 2026 announces ‘Superbod Era’ finalists
This year, the brand is signaling a profound shift: there is so much more to the bodies seen on stage. The entire Callback event served as a powerful revelation of a more holistic Superbod.
Celebrating its 20th year, Century Tuna Superbods enters a new era that reflects two decades of inspiring healthier Filipinos. The country’s premier fitness competition is officially back, but if you think you know what to expect from Superbods, prepare to be surprised once again. During the highly anticipated Final Callback, a powerful truth became undeniable: Superbods has officially evolved, and the exciting new Superbod Era has arrived.
Out of hundreds of hopeful applicants from all over the country, the chosen semi-finalists stepped into the spotlight to completely redefine modern fitness. This year, the brand is signaling a profound shift: there is so much more to the bodies seen on stage. The entire Callback event served as a powerful revelation of a more holistic Superbod. Audiences and judges alike were treated to a compelling showcase that went far beneath the surface—unpacking more of the real, raw personal transformations, unshakeable resilience, and a diverse range of life experiences that left everyone in awe as hosts 2018 Century Tuna Superbod Grand Winner Maureen Montagne and radio DJ KC Montero highlighted the candidates’ unique presences both on-stage and off-stage.
In this new Superbod Era, healthy bodies are celebrated not just as an end goal, but as the visible reflection of one’s mental strength, lifestyle discipline, and dedication to a purposeful life built on wellness and identity.
At the heart of this historic evolution is Century Tuna’s unwavering commitment to championing and continuously inspiring Filipinos to become the best versions of themselves. Reflecting this vision of true inclusivity, the competition has opened its doors wider than ever, welcoming individuals of all body types and walks of life. This new era was vividly brought to life during the Callback by hopefuls whose journeys reflect the changing face of fitness in the Philippines.
The stage saw multiple returning contenders on their second, third, and even fourth attempts to finally claim the title, proving that true dedication never quits. The runway came alive with Supermoms from all backgrounds—including corporate professionals, former models restarting their careers, and mothers bravely finding themselves again through wellness—alongside handson Superdads redefining modern parenting.
Even families took on the fitness journey together, showcasing unconventional parent-child dynamics where generations deeply influence each other’s health; this included a father-daughter duo and an inspiring family composed of a mother competing alongside her two sons. This incredible mix was further amplified by established celebrities and models who refuse to give up on chasing their ultimate Superbod dreams, as well as real-life fitness coaches who leave their gym floors to inspire a much grander audience. Together with trailblazing challengers shattering barriers of all kinds on the fitness stage—such as transgender men joining the competition for the first time and a powerful wave of “ageless” contenders proving that vitality has no expiration date—this historic batch proves that the Superbod life truly belongs to everyone.
“Every edition, the Superbods competition evolves, but our core mission remains unchanged—to inspire Filipinos to unlock the healthiest, most vibrant versions of themselves,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President, General Manager, and Group Business Head of Century Pacific Food Inc. “As we stepped into the ‘Superbod Era,’ we celebrate health as a powerful life stage where passion, dedication, and holistic wellness came together. The incredible energy and stories we witnessed at the Callback prove that the modern Filipino is ready to claim their own healthy era, and we are excited to see our new finalists inspire the nation.”
The esteemed panel of judges—which included executives from Century Pacific Food Inc., actress and fitness advocate Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Century Tuna Superbods 2018 and 2022 Grand Winners Jules Aquino and Christelle Abello—evaluated the contenders. The hopefuls were put to the test through a high-energy walk-off and a crucial question-and-answer segment, showcasing their unique physiques, natural charisma, commanding stage presence, and deep advocacy for fitness and holistic wellness.
The inspiring Callback event culminated in the official announcement of the finalists who will move forward to the grand finale:
The Top 20 Male Finalists who advanced include: Aaron Maniego, Ameer Ahid, Herschel Verne Sanchez, MJ Ordillano, Arvin Corpuz, Jay Gonzaga, Austin Dizon Cabatana, Nunoy van den Burgh, Jaco Benin, Paul John Galang, Christopher lan El Jouni, Joselito Florendo, Prince De Guzman, Rafael Cruz Tan, Ken Batino, Dominic Camozzi, Kim Panique, RC Kashyap, Ricardo De Jesus, and Lorenzo Isip.
Meanwhile, the Top 20 Female Finalists who successfully made the cut are: Alana Maris Montemayor, Janica Reloxe, Maan Marquez, Aleiah Torres, Jarly Verceles, Jasmine Rovelle Paguio, Anna Valencia Lakrini, Ashley Cayuca, Chucel Njigha, Ronalyn Lalimo, Jilliane Robillos, Rovin Mizuse, Diane Querrer, Donnabelle Erno, Kristen Bea H. Chua, Thalia Joaquin, Vienne Luna, Gee Canlas, Lou Yanong, and Gia Gonzales.
What began as a premier fitness challenge has evolved into a powerful cultural movement. By redefining healthy living and elevating everyday heroes, Century Tuna Superbods continues to break boundaries and inspire a nation toward wellness, self-love, and active lifestyles. The countdown to the finals is on—witness the new era unfold.
For more information on the upcoming Superbods competition, visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or watch out for updates on Century Tuna’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna.
-
Travel2 weeks agoEnjoying nature via trail hiking in Wales
-
Destinations3 weeks agoFinding beauty, and not just of faith, at the Bangor Cathedral
-
NewsMakers2 weeks agoWhy taking a sick day depends on more than being sick
-
Destinations3 weeks agoChecking Llanfair PG, the town that’s long in name and not much else
-
NewsMakers2 weeks ago‘Drunk riding’ behind almost half of fatal electric scooter crashes
-
Product Showcase2 weeks agoFor every parent who wants to be present: AXA reinforces importance of early health preparedness
-
NewsMakers2 weeks agoMove to quit: Exercise boosts smoking quit rates
-
Product Showcase6 days agoSuperbod Movement goes beyond the stage
