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Igloo’s Weather Index Insurance responds to unpredictable weather

Igloo aims to help bridge this protection gap with Weather Index Insurance (WII), an index-based insurance coverage specifically aimed to protect agriculture businesses and farmers against climate risks.

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After months of scorching heat, the country is now grappling with torrential rains as the rainy season sets in. While the rains offer hope for renewed harvests, they also carry the threat of stronger, more destructive typhoons. Despite their vital role in food production, farmers remain among the most vulnerable, repeatedly bearing the brunt of extreme weather with limited protection.

In 2024, the Department of Agriculture reported agricultural losses amounting to ₱57.8 billion, affecting over 1.4 million farmers and fisherfolk across the country. These losses were caused by a mix of calamities, including El Niño-induced droughts, typhoons, pests, and volcanic activity. El Niño alone accounted for ₱15.7 billion in damages, severely hitting key crops like rice and corn. Despite this, only one-third of farmers in the country are insured, according to the World Bank, even with government-subsidized premiums.

In its commitment to make insurance more accessible, leading insurtech Igloo aims to help bridge this protection gap with Weather Index Insurance (WII), an index-based insurance coverage specifically aimed to protect agriculture businesses and farmers against climate risks.

Unlike traditional insurance, which requires assessing actual damages after a disaster, WII  uses measurable weather data, such as rainfall, temperature, or wind speed as triggers for payouts. When a predefined threshold is crossed, compensation is automatically released, enabling faster and more objective claims processing.

This parametric model has already been successfully deployed in Vietnam, where WII is available through telecommunications company  MobiFone’s agricultural app, MobiAgri, which uses the latest technologies in Big Data, AI, blockchain, AR, and VR to support digital farming. By embedding Igloo’s Rainfall Weather Index Insurance into MobiAgri, the initiative offers a holistic platform designed to improve crop yields, manage climate risks, and promote sustainable farming. Deployment is in 18 provinces and cities, supported by a network of over 2,000 rain stations and 650 meteorological stations. 

“We believe the same model can be applied to the Philippines, where frequent typhoons and prolonged droughts continue to impact agricultural productivity,” said John Chen, Igloo’s Country Manager for the Philippines and Thailand.  The company has been in talks with local stakeholders to introduce weather-based coverage and is actively looking to expand its offerings in the country 

“With the right partners, including government agencies to agritech platforms and cooperatives, we can bring insurance closer to Filipino farmers and equip them with the tools to better withstand the effects of climate change,” Chen added.

Learn more about Igloo’s products and services by visiting iglooinsure.com

Product Showcase

Why Mega Sardines is a smart, healthy choice for every Filipino family

Through Mega Prime Foods’ System-6 process and complete vertical integration from fresh catch to hygienic canning, Mega Sardines retain their freshness, safety, and nutrient quality, earning them the “Superfood” recognition.

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Sardines have long been a nutritional powerhouse, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, protein, and essential vitamins. They are an affordable, everyday way to support heart health, strong bones, and overall wellness for the whole family.

What sets Mega Sardines apart is how they are made. Through Mega Prime Foods’ System-6 process and complete vertical integration from fresh catch to hygienic canning, Mega Sardines retain their freshness, safety, and nutrient quality, earning them the “Superfood” recognition.

Six Reasons to Choose Mega Sardines

  1. Freshness Guaranteed – From catch to canning, Mega Sardines are packed within 12 hours to lock in all the natural nutrients and freshness you expect in every can.
  2. Omega-3 Boost – Each can is loaded with healthy fats essential for brain function, heart health, and overall wellness.
  3. Heart Health – Nutrient-rich profile supports cardiovascular health and helps reduce inflammation.
  4. Complete Nutrition – Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein to keep the family energized.
  5. Guaranteed Safe & Preservative-Free – State-of-the-art processing ensures no human contact and no artificial preservatives, keeping sardines close to their natural state.
  6. Sustainably Sourced – With plants in Zamboanga and Batangas, Mega Prime Foods uses automation to produce up to 3 million cans daily, reaching retail outlets, major social commerce platforms, and sari-sari stores nationwide.

Available in stores nationwide, including your neighborhood sari-sari store, healthy and delicious meals are always within reach.

3 Easy Ways to Enjoy Mega Sardines

Nutrition with Real-Life Impact

Beyond great taste, Mega Prime Foods is fighting malnutrition through its Mega Bigay Sustansya feeding program. Since 2019, it has helped thousands of children reach healthier nutrition, boosting the number of kids at a normal healthy weight by 46.4%.

At the ECCP 2025 Nutrition Forum, Chief Growth and Development Officer Marvin Tiu Lim shared:

“We measure [our program] before and after, and the results are remarkable. We’ve seen a 46.4% increase in children reaching a normal nutritional status, proof that the program works. It’s our part to ensure both kids and parents know how to eat well and make the right nutrition choices.”

He also underscored ongoing nutrition challenges in the Philippines, citing 3.4 million Filipinos affected by malnutrition (Action Against Hunger Philippines) and WHO data showing 1 in 10 children and 4 in 10 adults are overweight or obese.

This year, Mega Sardines also received the Seafood Superfood endorsement from the Medical Wellness Association, reaffirming its nutritional value and quality.

Mega Prime Foods believes small, everyday food choices can make a big difference. Choosing Mega Sardines means giving your family affordable, high-quality nutrition you can trust.

Learn more at Mega Prime Foods Inc. and discover how Mega Sardines can be part of your family’s wellness journey.

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Palawan Group of Companies Introduces ProtekTODO

Addressing the urgent need for accessible health services, Palawan Group introduces ProtekTODO Critical Illness, a straightforward and affordable insurance product offering a 100% cash payout upon diagnosis, regardless of the illness’s stage.

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The Palawan Group of Companies is taking a significant step to empower Filipinos with accessible health protection with the launch of Palawan ProtekTODO Critical Illness, a timely and transformative insurance product offering essential coverage against the Philippines’ three leading causes of death: heart attack, stroke, and cancer.

Addressing the urgent need for accessible health services, Palawan Group introduces ProtekTODO Critical Illness, a straightforward and affordable insurance product offering a 100% cash payout upon diagnosis, regardless of the illness’s stage.

Policyholders can choose from two plan options: the Basic Plan with ₱50,000 coverage for as low as ₱550 per year, or the Plus Plan offering ₱100,000 coverage starting at ₱1,100 annually. Open to Filipinos aged 18 to 60, the policy provides one full year of protection, giving families crucial financial support and peace of mind when they need it most. The product provides policyholders with financial assistance for certain medical expenses and treatments, helping ease the burden of financial stress.

Karlo M. Castro, President and CEO of the Palawan Group of Companies, proudly introduced the new offering, saying, “This milestone product embodies everything we stand for—trust, innovation, and protection for every Filipino. As we mark 40 years of dedicated service, we reflect on the millions of lives we’ve touched through accessible financial solutions. More importantly, we look forward with a renewed commitment to our mission: to help build a healthier, more resilient future for the communities we serve.”

For as low as ₱550 per year, Filipinos can access essential financial protection against some of the country’s most common and financially draining critical illnesses. This affordable yet meaningful coverage is thoughtfully designed for hardworking individuals, families, and breadwinners– those who face the daily challenge of protecting their health without putting their financial stability at risk.

This new offering, with Oona Insurance Corporation as the underwriting partner, comes at a critical time. According to the 2024 Causes of Death report by the Philippine Statistics Authority, ischemic heart disease, a type of cardiovascular disease, remains the leading cause of death in the country, accounting for over 19.4% of total fatalities. Neoplasms, the second leading cause, are abnormal tissue growths that may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), with the latter commonly known as cancer. Cerebrovascular diseases, including stroke, affect blood flow in the brain and can cause serious complications, ranking third among the top causes of death. With rising medical costs and long recovery periods, the need for accessible health protection has never been greater.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Palawan Group continues to empower Filipino communities by offering “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos” (affordable, fast, and hassle-free) service. The launch of this new product marks a significant milestone in Palawan Group’s evolution–from a provider of traditional financial services to a champion of accessible protection. As the company grows, it remains a trusted partner for millions of Filipinos, helping them not only safeguard their finances but also prepare for life’s uncertainties.

Be financially ready with reliable protection that won’t break the bank. Get ProtekTODO Critical Illness today at any Palawan Pawnshop—Palawan Express Pera Padala branch, via the PalawanPay App, or through the official Palawan ProtekTODO stores on Lazada and Shopee.

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Jetstar announces direct flights to Australia from Manila and Cebu

Starting 27 November 2025, Jetstar will fly direct from Manila to Perth, and from 3 December 2025, travelers can fly from Cebu to Brisbane.

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Jetstar is strengthening ties between the Philippines and Australia with the launch of two new direct routes, delivering more tourism, trade, and family connections than ever before.

Starting 27 November 2025, Jetstar will fly direct from Manila to Perth, and from 3 December 2025, travelers can fly from Cebu to Brisbane. These new services will operate three times a week using Jetstar’s new-generation, fuel-efficient Airbus A321LR aircraft.

The new routes are expected to bring more than 108,000 low-fare seats annually to and from the Philippines, opening the door for more Australian tourists to explore the country’s world-renowned beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.

Jetstar’s growth  
 
The launch of these new services is part of Jetstar’s broader commitment to delivering great value travel experiences across the Asia-Pacific, with the airline launching or announcing 20 new domestic and international routes since June 2024.   

This expansion is being driven by Jetstar’s investment in new state-of-the-art Airbus A321LR and A320neo aircraft, alongside redeployment of its wide-body Boeing 787 Dreamliners on longer-haul services.   

Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the new services mark a significant milestone for the airline. 

“We’re proud to be connecting more Australians with the Philippines, and just as importantly, opening up new opportunities for Filipinos to travel, reunite with family, and grow tourism and trade.

“From the white-sand beaches of Cebu to the dynamic energy of Manila, these routes offer incredible value and unforgettable experiences for travellers from Australia.”

Visit jetstar.com to find out more and make a booking.

Flight schedule

Perth – Manila, From 27 November 2025

Flight Frequency  AirportDepart Airport Arrive 
JQ81 Tue, Thu, SunPER  21:10 MNL  04:15
JQ80 Mon, Wed, FriMNL05:35  PER13:00

Brisbane – Cebu, From 3 December 2025*  

FlightFrequency  AirportDepart AirportArrive 
JQ101   Wed, Fri, SunBNE  12:30  CEB  17:15  
JQ100   Wed, Fri, SunCEB  20:15  BNE  05:05

* Seasonal route. 3 December 2025 – 16 May 2026

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