mWell Advocates Greater Mental Health Awareness

Mental health stigma in the Philippines remains a significant barrier to care. Rooted in cultural expectations of resilience, mental health struggles are too often misread as weakness, pushing individuals to suffer quietly rather than seek the help they deserve. Deep-seated values like hiya and pakikisama compound the silence, as many fear bringing embarrassment to themselves or their families by admitting they are not okay. In the workplace, the stakes feel even higher: about 75% of Filipinos believe that disclosing mental health concerns compromises their professional opportunities, the highest rate among ASEAN countries, according to the International Labor Organization. And for many, the cost of professional mental health support remains the final barrier.

mWell addresses all of these barriers head-on, with technology that is accessible, affordable, and built for real Filipinos.

"Mind health is just as important as physical health, and yet for so many Filipinos, asking for help still feels out of reach — whether because of stigma, cost, or simply not knowing where to turn. True well-being cannot exist without both. At mWell, we are committed to making sure that every Filipino has a place to turn to, for their body and for their mind, because a healthier Filipino is a stronger Filipino. We want every person to know that support is there for them, whenever they are ready, and that taking care of their mind is one of the most courageous things they can do for themselves," said Chaye Cabal-Revilla, President and CEO of mWell and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC.

MEETING FILIPINOS AT EVERY STAGE OF THEIR MIND HEALTH JOURNEY

mWell's mind health services are designed to meet Filipinos at every stage of their mental health journey, starting from the moment they decide to check in with themselves.

Available for free on the mWell app, the Mind Health Score and self-guided modules give users a private, judgment-free starting point. The Mind Health Score, built on the scientifically validated WHO-5 Well-Being Index, helps users understand where they stand emotionally and mentally, while the self-guided modules use evidence-based techniques to help manage stress, build resilience, and improve overall emotional balance, all at their own pace.

When a user is ready to talk to someone, mWell makes professional support within reach. The mWell Mind Healthsavers Plan offers a 30-minute video session with a certified Mind Health Coach that users can avail anytime within 30 days upon purchase. For those who require a higher level of care, mWell also offers scheduled and on-demand consultations with coaches, psychologists, or psychiatrists. Both are available for as low as P499, making it easier than ever for Filipinos to take that next step without the weight of financial worry.

EXPANDING OUR NETWORK OF CARE THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Central to delivering on this promise is mWell's partnership with MindNation, a global mental health and well-being organization trusted by top employers, schools, and government institutions across the world.

Through this collaboration, mWell is expanding its network of certified mental health specialists, ensuring that more Filipinos have access to qualified, culturally sensitive care whenever they need it. The partnership reflects a shared conviction that mental health support should not be a privilege, but a right that every Filipino can exercise.

"At MindNation, we have always believed that mental health support should be something every person can reach, not a privilege reserved for the few. Partnering with mWell brings us closer to that vision, expanding the number of qualified, compassionate specialists available to Filipinos when and where they need them most. Together, we are not just adding names to a roster. We are building a stronger, more accessible safety net for the nation's well-being," said Eizaleen Fusingan-Lappay, PhDc, LPT, RPm, RPsy, Chief WellBeing Officer, MindNation.

A GLOBAL STANDARD OF CARE FOR EVERY FILIPINO

mWell's commitment to accessible digital healthcare has earned recognition on the world stage. mWell recently won the Global Mobile (GLOMO) Award for Best Mobile Innovation Supporting Emergency or Humanitarian Situations at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, marking a back-to-back GLOMO victory following its 2023 win for Best Mobile Innovation for Digital Life, and making it the first Philippine healthtech app to win in this category. With this recognition, mWell joins leading global brands such as Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and more among this year's GLOMO winners.

The global accolade is a testament to what mWell has always believed: that technology, when built with purpose, can transform lives. Its mind health services are the latest expression of that belief, bringing world-class mental health support within reach of every Filipino, wherever they are. As one of the top health and wellness apps in the Philippines, mWell continues to make holistic healthcare more accessible through innovations that empower Filipinos to take charge of their health anytime, anywhere.

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to working towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare. Download the mWell app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Follow mWell on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.

 

ABOUT mWell

mWell, is the health technology platform developed by Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation that offers telemedicine, health and wellness programs, e-commerce, among others, in an integrated, tech-based healthcare digital ecosystem. Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, the leading infrastructure investment company in the Philippines with investments in various infrastructure assets including healthcare. As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to work towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

ABOUT MindNation

MindNation is a global mental health and well-being organization on a mission to Make Feeling Better Possible, for Everyone, Every Day. Trusted by top employers, schools, and government institutions, MindNation integrates mental health into everyday life and work through science-backed care, culturally relevant programs, and scalable technology. By normalizing mental health conversations and providing real solutions, MindNation empowers individuals and organizations to thrive.

Learn more at www.mindnation.com or follow @mindnation on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES CELEBRATES 60 YEARS IN THE PHILIPPINES

 Singapore Airlines (SIA) marked its 60th anniversary in the Philippines, and organized a surprise celebration to extend its gratitude to customers who have supported its journey over the past six decades. The celebrations were held on 2 June 2026, at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 and at Mactan-CebuInternational Airport.

SIA representatives and valued partners, including NNIC and NAIA Terminal 3 leadership, commemorated the occasionwith a cake cutting ceremony, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to building robust air travel and connectivity to the Philippines and beyond.

From left:: Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 Manager, Mr. Lauro Francisco; Singapore Airlines General Manager Philippines; Ms. Liwei Tai; New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) General Manager, Mr. Angelito Alvarez; and NNIC Executive Assistant to the President and CEO, Mr. Cesar Chiong, lead the cake-cutting ceremony marking Singapore Airlines' 60th anniversary in the Philippines.

SIA customers departing from Manila were welcomed with anniversary-themed installations and commemorative postcards at check-in counters. At the SilverKris Lounge, guests savoured specially prepared treats featuring local flavours, while customers at the gatehold room enjoyed interactive games, photo opportunities, complimentary refreshments, and anniversary giveaways. Customers also received commemorative batik-designed cookies before boarding, with refreshments and similar treats distributed to travellers departing Cebu.

Mr. Angelito Alvarez, General Manager of New NAIA Infra Corp., said: "On behalf of New NAIA Infra Corp., I extend our warmest congratulations to Singapore Airlines on this remarkable milestone. Thank you for six decades of partnership and for helping connect generations of Filipinos to Singapore and to destinations around the world. As we continue to modernise and transform NAIA, we look forward to supporting Singapore Airlines in its next chapter of growth and success."

 

Ms. Liwei Tai, General Manager Philippines, Singapore Airlines, said: "Since 1966, it has been our privilege to welcome generations of customers from the Philippines on board our flights, connecting them to Singapore and destinations across our global network with the warmth, care and world-class experience that Singapore Airlines is known for. We are grateful for the continued trust of our customers, and for this opportunity to serve the Philippines these past 60 years. As we look ahead, Singapore Airlines remain committed to delivering an exceptional travel experience for our customers, strengthening our partnerships, and enhancing connectivity between the Philippines and Singapore, and beyond.”

Specially prepared cookies were distributed to customers boarding flight SQ917 on 2 June 2026 as a token of appreciation.

 

 

Unlock Anniversary Fare Deals with Mastercard®

As part of its 60th anniversary celebrations in the Philippines, Singapore Airlines has launched a limited-time fare promotion for travellers departing from the Philippines.

Customers may enjoy discounts of up to 32% off on selected destinations when booking through the Singapore Airlines website or SingaporeAir mobile app and paying with eligible Mastercard® debit or credit cards using promo code SQPH60.

The promotion is available until 30 June 2026 for travel between 5 June 2026 and 31 March 2027. Participating destinations include Singapore, selected destinations in Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, and the United States of America, as well as Madrid, SIA’s newest destination in Europe.

More information, including the full list of destinations and applicable terms and conditions, is available at tinyurl.com/SQPH60years.

Terms and conditions apply. This promotion is conducted per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-258315 Series of 2026. 

For flight schedules and travel updates, visit singaporeair.com.

SIA flies five times daily from Manila to Singapore and daily from Cebu to Singapore. Travellers departing from Clark, Iloilo, and Davao can travel on Scoot, which flies daily from Clark, four times weekly from Iloilo and 11 times weekly from Davao to Singapore. Scoot flights are also available from Manila and Cebu to Singapore. All services conveniently connect on onward flights out of Singapore to the rest of the world.

 

Responsible Digital Citizenship: Building a Safer, Stronger Philippines

 Why the next generation of Filipino freedom starts with digital responsibility

The digital world is no longer just an alternate reality for Filipinos. It is an extension of everyday life. From family group chats and online classrooms to digital wallets and small businesses, the internet shapes how we connect, learn, work, and participate in society.

But as our reliance on digital spaces grows, so do the risks. Misinformation, phishing scams, identity theft, and online fraud continue to threaten users—especially the most vulnerable to deception.

This Independence Day, as the nation honors the courage and sacrifices that shaped our nation, it is time to reflect on what freedom means in today’s connected world. In the digital age, true freedom is not just about access to platforms and opportunities. It is about having the confidence and security to go online without fear of being deceived, exploited, or harmed.

Today, protecting our fellow Filipinos is no longer limited to traditional symbols or historical remembrance. It happens on our screens—in how we verify information, safeguard our data, treat others online, and help build safer digital communities.

The Rise of Digital Bayanihan

At the heart of Filipino culture is bayanihan—the communal spirit of unity, cooperation, and helping one another in times of need. In today’s connected era, this timeless value is taking on a crucial new form: Digital Bayanihan.

Digital bayanihan is the collective commitment to building a safer, kinder, and more accountable internet. It shifts the idea of online safety from a personal responsibility to a shared community effort. In today’s digital landscape, one person’s online behavior ripples outward. A single unverified post can spread panic, while a single phishing link can lead to financial ruin for an unsuspecting netizen.

Building a resilient, digitally secure Philippines starts with simple, conscious daily habits:

● Verify before sharing: Always check the credibility of sources before hitting “share” or “retweet.”

● Protect personal data: Keep accounts secure with strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and never share OTPs.

● Look out for vulnerable users: Guide elderly family members and first-time internet users to spot suspicious links, fake promotions, and impersonation scams.

● Report, don’t just scroll past: Flagging fake accounts, misleading posts, and harmful content helps clean up the digital ecosystem for everyone.

A truly free digital space is not one where people can say anything without consequence, but one where every Filipino can participate safely, responsibly, and meaningfully.

The Youth as Champions of a Safer Internet

While every online citizen has a role to play, young Filipinos are uniquely positioned to lead this movement. As digital natives, students and Gen Z internet users have the tech-savviness, adaptability, and social influence to shape healthier online cultures.

They are not merely passive users of technology; they are the ultimate advocates of digital bayanihan.

Recognizing this immense potential, Online AlerTour—an educational initiative by PLDT Home’s Online Alerto, in partnership with the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG)—delivers vital online safety education directly to university campuses. The tour equips students with practical knowledge to identify cyber threats, combat disinformation, and champion responsible digital behavior.

The initiative has already energized student communities across major campuses, including Far Eastern University, Universidad de Manila, and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

Through these campus caravans, students are empowered to become vigilant digital citizens and active protectors of their communities, demonstrating that the youth remain the fair hope of our digital motherland.

 

Freedom in the Digital Age

As the Philippines celebrates Independence Day, the definition of freedom continues to evolve. A truly free nation is one in which citizens can connect, learn, work, and express themselves online without fear of exploitation or abuse.

This is the long-term vision that drives Online Alerto, PLDT Home’s online safety advocacy platform. Launched in 2022, it has grown into a thriving Facebook community of more than 77,000 members dedicated to promoting digital awareness, responsibility, and safety.

Through ongoing education, strategic partnerships, and grassroots community-building, PLDT Home remains committed to fostering a secure digital environment for Filipinos nationwide.

True patriotism is not only about remembering the freedoms won in the past. It is about actively protecting the freedoms Filipinos enjoy today—including the right to live, learn, and thrive safely in the digital world.

This Independence Day, let us commit to practicing digital bayanihan because a safer, more responsible digital Philippines is a stronger, freer, and more united nation.

To learn more about online safety and responsible digital citizenship, join the Online Alerto Facebook Community and be part of the movement toward a safer internet.

Forest Lake Honors Top Performers as 2025 Delivers Strongest Growth Yet

 Forest Lake Development Inc., the Philippines’ leading memorial park developer with Total Memorial Care, gathered more than 550 guests at Okada Manila on April 21, 2026 for its 12th National Sales Convention, a celebration that honored its people, partnerships, and shared values behind the company’s continued nationwide growth and record-breaking achievements in 2025. 

Agency Managers Awardees — Alfred Xerez-Burgos III, President and CEO of Forest Lake Development Inc. (left), and Marc Victorius O. Encarnacion, Chief of Staff to Alfred Xerez-Burgos Jr. and the Office of the President(right), present awards to Top 1 Ernesta D. Ibañez, Top 2 Editha F. Basa, and Top 3 Mary Jane D. Manalastas during Forest Lake’s THRIVE: Ani ng Tagumpay National Sales Convention, recognizing their exceptional leadership, outstanding sales performance, and significant contributions to the company’s record-breaking success in 2025.

 Carrying the theme “THRIVE: Ani ng Tagumpay,” the convention highlighted Forest Lake’s historic ₱5.5 billion sales production in 2025, a significant increase from its ₱3.8 billion sales performance in 2024, and the company’s strongest milestone to date. The theme symbolized the harvest of success made possible through teamwork, perseverance, dedication, and the collective efforts of Forest Lake’s nationwide organization. 

 

Serving as a tribute to the hardworking sales agents, sales leaders, sales support teams, regional sales groups, employees, executives, investors, banking partners, and stakeholders from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the convention celebrated sales achievements, and recognized the efforts that helped expand Forest Lake’s nationwide presence, strengthen customer trust, and deliver compassionate memorial care solutions to Filipino families. 

 

“This celebration is not only about record-breaking sales–it is about the people behind those achievements,” said Alfred Xerez-Burgos III, President and CEO of Forest Lake Development Inc. “Our sales agents and leaders are the heart of Forest Lake’s success, and their dedication allows us to continue serving Filipino families with dignity, compassion, and care.” 

Sales Consultants Awardees — Juan Carlo Xerez-Burgos, Managing Director for Business Development (left), and Emmanuel Leonardo, Chief of Staff to the Managing Director for Business Development of Forest Lake Development Inc. (FLDI) and its subsidiaries (right), present awards to Top 1 Jasmine Drika D. Lievaart, Top 2 Glenn M. Palencia, and Top 3 Teemee I. Miguel during Forest Lake’s THRIVE: Ani ng Tagumpay National Sales Convention, recognizing their outstanding sales performance and contributions to the company’s record-breaking success in 2025.

Likewise, Forest Lake used the momentous occasion to reinforce its transformation from the Philippines’ leading memorial park developer into the Philippines’ leading memorial park developer with Total Memorial Care, highlighting its growing ecosystem of memorial care services designed to provide Filipino families with compassionate support during life’s most difficult moments. 

 

Among Forest Lake’s enhanced services are Libre Burol or Libre Haya nationwide, Libing Anywhere, memorial chapels, cremation services, columbarium developments, interment services, and future-ready memorial innovations. 

 

Forest Lake now has 41 accredited funeral homes nationwide supporting its Libre Burol services, making total memorial care services more accessible for families across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Additional accredited providers are also being added as the company continues to strengthen its Total Memorial Care network nationwide. 

 

“Achieving ₱5.5 billion in sales reflects the trust our customers place in Forest Lake and the commitment of our teams nationwide,” Xerez-Burgos III added. “As we continue to expand our Total Memorial Care services, we remain focused on providing meaningful solutions for every Filipino family.” 

Gary Valenciano takes the stage for a special performance at Forest Lake’s 12th National Sales Convention, delighting attendees and helping commemorate a year of record-breaking success and outstanding accomplishments.

 

The convention also showcased Forest Lake’s continued nationwide expansion and operational milestones, operating 42 memorial parks nationwide–including recently launched developments in Bacnotan, Gapan, and Rosario, which collectively generated hundreds of millions in sales within months after opening.

 

Forest Lake also announced the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of its increase in authorized capital stock from ₱1 billion to ₱4 billion to support further nationwide expansion (new memorial parks and chapels), infrastructure development, and investments in technology and operational systems. 

 

“What began as a small memorial park business has grown into a nationwide organization because of our people, our values, and our commitment to service,” said Alfred Xerez-Burgos Jr., Chairman of Forest Lake Development Inc. “The success we celebrate today belongs to every sales agent, leader, employee, and partner who believed in Forest Lake’s vision.” 

Top-performing Forest Lake sellers enjoy an all-expense-paid incentive trip to Bangkok, Thailand, rewarding their outstanding contributions and celebrating the dedication that helped drive the company’s record-breaking success in 2025.

 

“We continue to grow not only by building parks, but by building trust with the families we serve,” he added. “Through Total Memorial Care, we are creating meaningful and lasting impact in communities across the country.” 

 

The gala evening featured performances by AZTER and a special mini-concert by Gary Valenciano, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the convention. Forest Lake also rewarded its top-performing sellers with an all-expense-paid incentive trip to Bangkok, Thailand from April 22 to 25, 2026, an incentive which included visits to Thailand’s iconic cultural landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and the Floating Market, alongside cultural tours, shopping experiences, and a luxury buffet dinner cruise. 

 

This incentive program emphasized Forest Lake’s continued investment in sales excellence, professional growth, team motivation, and long-term career opportunities for its sellers nationwide, aligned with the company’s belief that its people remain the driving force behind its continued success and evolution in compassionate memorial care. 

 

Xerez-Burgos III shares, “Forest Lake is evolving from the Philippines’ leading memorial park developer into the Philippines’ leading memorial park developer with Total Memorial Care–and our people are the driving force behind that transformation.”

 

For more information on Forest Lake Memorial Parks and their services, visit their social media pages: Facebook (@ForestLakeMemorialParks), and Instagram (@forestlakememorialparks), and explore hashtags #ABetterPlace, #ThriveAniNgTagumpay,  #ForestLakeNSC2026, #ForestLakeCares, #TotalMemorialCare, #ForestLake2026,

 

For over 29 years, Forest Lake has established itself as a leader in providing thoughtfully designed, family-friendly memorial parks throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These parks are more than places of remembrance; they are vibrant spaces where families gather, connect, and celebrate their loved ones' memories.

 

As the foremost memorial park developer in the Philippines, with 42 memorial parks nationwide, Forest Lake is committed to expanding its offerings to include total memorial care services such as chapels, columbariums, and cremation. This expansion underscores the company's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of Filipino families.

 

Guided by its mission to create "A Better Place," Forest Lake upholds values of innovation, creativity, teamwork, personalized service, value creation, and professionalism. The company integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance service delivery and foster a seamless, personalized experience for every client. Forest Lake’s collaborative approach ensures that each park is a testament to thoughtful design and professional excellence, offering significant value to both clients and investors through low-risk, high-yield opportunities.

 

Forest Lake Memorial Parks is headquartered on the third floor of Alexcy One Building, 51 President’s Avenue, 1718, Parañaque City. For more information, email info@forestlakeparks.com or visit forestlakeparks.com. Follow Forest Lake on Facebook @ForestLakeMemorialParks and Instagram @forestlakememorialparks. Check out the viral video on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

 

Join Forest Lake in its vision to provide spaces where the memories of loved ones are celebrated and immortalized, and where families can create new, lasting memories together.