Gracee's Lifestyle Journal

Chevron sponsored the 12th AmCham ScholaRun, which funds Filipino scholars’ dreams, one step at a time.  Chevron  returns as a co-presenter sponsor for the 12th AmCham ScholaRun, staying true to its commitment to empower Filipino youth through education. This is an annual fun run organized by the American Chamber Foundation Philippines, Inc., to raise funds to support disadvantaged Filipino students’ schooling.  Held for the first time at the Plaza Moriones in Intramuros, Manila, this year’s edition carried the venue’s heritage with the theme “Fiesta of Hope:  Funding Dreams, One Step at a Time.”  Chevron has proudly stood as co-presenter for 12 consecutive years, continuously supporting the AmCham Foundation’s mission The run was attended by 3,797 participants. Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) and Chevron Holdings Inc.—Global Business Services (CHI-GBS) had 216 employees join the run, making them one of the largest company delegations.  Despite the early sta...

The Philippines is positioned to lead the global shift toward stablecoin-based remittances provided it prioritizes developer education and formalizes regulatory pathways, according to fintech and blockchain leaders at the recent “Settle In! Manila” panel organized by Morph and Bitget’s Blockchain4Her and Blockchain For Youth initiatives on the global rise of stablecoins and the future of digital payments. Over one million OFWs send remittances home annually through channels that charge fees as high as six percent and take days to clear. Stablecoin transfers can settle near-instantly at a fraction of the cost, a difference that directly affects household income for millions of Filipino families. OFW remittances rose 3.5% in January 2026 despite seasonal slowdowns, underscoring continued and growing dependence on these flows. “The Philippines is one of the many countries and regions that stand to benefit the most from stablecoin technology, whether it be through lower costs or settlemen...

Over 100 housing and real estate stakeholders gathered for the  Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA)  Golf Cup 2026, a premier industry event combining meaningful networking and camaraderie, recognizing top golfers, and celebrating both their skill on the greens and excellence in housing development. Centered on the theme “Driving Developments Forward,” the fourth edition of the tournament highlighted how strategy, focus, and discipline on the golf course underscore the demands of delivering sustainable, inclusive housing. Beyond the game, the event served as a platform for strengthening partnerships and fostering shared goals across the housing industry. The tournament officially opened with a ceremonial tee-off led by Engr. Francis Richmond Villegas, SHDA Chairman of the Board; Mr. Kerwin Padua, SHDA President; and Mr. John Paul Dy, SHDA Central Luzon Chapter President and Golf Organizing Committee Chairman. They were joined by prominent figures, including M...

Stress is no longer occasional – it’s constant. From endless notifications to everyday pressures, many Filipinos are navigating a level of mental “noise” that affects focus, decision-making, and overall well-being. Yet despite rising stress levels, many individuals still hesitate to seek professional mental health support, with many delaying care until challenges escalate. This April, in line with International Stress Awareness Month, MindNation is inviting individuals to take control of their mental clarity through its campaign, “The Future Is Clear.” Running from April 1 to 30, 2026, the campaign offers 50% OFF the Anxiety Control Bundle, making structured, expert-led support more accessible at ₱2,550 (from ₱5,100). The bundle includes three 1-on-1 sessions with a licensed psychologist, designed to help individuals manage anxiety, process stress, and regain focus in a fast-moving world. Why Managing Stress Early Matters Eiza Fusingan-Lappay, LPT, RPm, RPsy, PhDc, Chief WellBeing Offi...

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) is strengthening its support for sari-sari stores through a technology-enabled direct-to-retail strategy designed to empower small retailers and improve access to products across communities. Sari-sari stores remain a vital part of the Philippine retail landscape, serving as neighborhood hubs and sources of livelihood for millions of Filipino families. Recognizing their importance, PCPPI continues to place these micro-entrepreneurs at the center of its long-term business strategy. According to PCPPI President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, the company is focused on utilizing a distribution model that allows sari-sari store owners to benefit directly from the company’s promotions, pricing programs, and service support. “Every time our frontliners visit a sari-sari store, we make sure that they are getting the best prices,” Phyo said. “Technology helps us ensure that the discounts and promotions intended for sari-sari stor...

In many Filipino households, responsibility is rarely equally shared. The role of a breadwinner can fall on one person -- the  ate  who works hard to send younger siblings to school, the entrepreneur striving to keep the small business afloat, or the parent making daily sacrifices to secure a better future for their children. These are the people who keep everything going, quietly, consistently, and often without a safety net of their own. So, while they spend their days looking after everyone, a critical gap remains: the people who carry the most responsibility are often the least protected. This imbalance is at the heart of the newest campaign from AXA Philippines, seeking to reframe insurance not as a response to fear, but as a necessary support system for those others depend on every day. By spotlighting everyday protectors, AXA, a worldwide leader in insurance, positions protection as what enables them to remain present, capable, and reliable, even when life becomes uncer...