Batik Valiri: Weaving Sustainability and Heritage in Southeast Asian Fashion

Beyond just a residential area, Sigi Regency in Central Sulawesi is a sanctuary of noble values and local wisdom. Flanked by mountains and ancient forests strictly guarded by customary law, Sigi preserves a cultural heritage, beautifully etched into its textile crafts. Batik Sigi is a visual narrative of the harmony between community and nature. Through motifs inspired by flora, fauna, cultural values, and local history, this batik connects a grand past with the contemporary spirit of sustainability.

As mass production saturates the global fashion industry, traditional fabrics like Batik Valiri have emerged as symbols of identity and consciousness. From runways to urban consumers' wardrobes, tradition-based textiles are no longer confined to ceremonial attire. Instead, they represent a statement of values regarding origins, sustainability, and the human connection to nature. In Sigi, fashion is defined not just by what is worn, but by the story of its creation and the legacy it leaves behind. 

She Matters: Merck’s Women’s Health Summit Champions Health, Economy, and Planet

Merck, a leading science and technology company, hosted its second She Matters: Women’s Health Summit at Conrad Manila, bringing together doctors, healthcare leaders, policymakers, and advocates in a shared declaration and call-to-action to improve women’s health across every stage of life and planetary health.

Anchored on the theme “Healthy Women, Healthy Economy, Healthy Planet”, the summit underscored how improving women’s health has ripple effects far beyond individual wellbeing—strengthening families, boosting productivity, and helping societies thrive.

“Today, we gather not just to discuss health but, more importantly, women’s health—She Matters. Her health matters, her voice matters, her future matters. And when she thrives, the world thrives with her,” said Martha Paiz, Managing Director and General Manager of Merck Inc.

Setting the Stage for Change: MindNation and AKTOR Elevate Mental Health Support in Entertainment Industry

In a significant step toward strengthening mental health support in the local entertainment sector, AKTOR — League of Filipino Actors has formalized a partnership with MindNation to provide comprehensive, long-term mental health services to its members.

The collaboration ensures AKTOR members will have access to confidential, evidence-based mental health support, including 24/7 teletherapy sessions with licensed professionals, crisis support, and mental health education initiatives. The program also includes preventive tools such as mental health assessments, and well-being workshops.

YGC Earth Care Pioneers a Sustainable Legacy for Nature and Community

As continuous natural disasters underscore the urgency for environmental action, the private sector must step up to help restore ecosystems and promote long-term sustainability. The Yuchengco Group of Companies’ (YGC) Earth Care Project is a blueprint for genuine, long-term commitment, moving beyond simple tree planting to a comprehensive ecosystem restoration and climate risk mitigation strategy. It establishes a powerful model where a deep commitment to caring for nature also empowers communities and uplifts lives.

The initiative focuses on the restoration of previously degraded land in the heart of the Sierra Madre mountain range, adopting Mt. Bangkaan in Tanay, Rizal. Launched in 2011, the project is a centennial commitment to watershed protection and reforestation. Unlike typical short-term initiatives, YGC ensures every planted sapling—a mix of native and fruit-bearing species—thrives to maturity, a long-term dedication sustained through continuous funding and management.

SNAP-Magat, Diadi LGU mark 18 years of delivering medical and dental services

Renewable energy solutions provider SN Aboitiz Power-Magat (SNAP-Magat) in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Diadi, Nueva Vizacaya successfully conducted a medical and dental mission under the “A Dozen Full of Love Program” in celebration of its annual outreach program initiative to provide essential health and social services to residents while promoting community welfare and unity on February 12, 2026.

As part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility Fund, SNAP-Magat donated around  Php200,000 worth of essential medicines to support the Diadi’s annual medical and dental program that benefited 307 residents, including children, adults, and senior citizens.