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Novo Nordisk recently launched the Live Lighter movement, a multi-sector initiative aimed at transforming both public understanding and access to care.

The initiative calls for a shift in perspective: from viewing obesity as a matter of personal responsibility to recognizing it as a chronic, complex disease influenced by biology, environment, and other underlying factors.

“For almost 30 years, we have studied obesity not as a lifestyle issue, but as a chronic disease. Today is not just about introducing a new treatment option. It is about changing how a country understands obesity,” said Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “Through Live Lighter, we aim to help Filipinos treat obesity right—with science, compassion, and with the support they deserve.”

The event coincided with the launch of Wegovy®, a new prescription therapy based on semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works with the body’s biology to help regulate appetite, energy intake, and metabolic processes. More than a platform for awareness, the Live Lighter movement signals a step forward in how obesity is treated in the Philippines by introducing innovative, science-based treatment options that go beyond traditional approaches.

Expanding access to science-based treatment

More than a platform for awareness, the Live Lighter movement also signals a step forward in how obesity is treated in the Philippines by introducing innovative, science-based treatment option that goes beyond traditional approaches.

The launch coincides with the introduction of a new prescription therapy based on semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works with the body’s biology to help regulate appetite, energy intake, and metabolic processes. By targeting the underlying mechanisms of obesity, this class of treatment represents a shift toward more holistic and medically guided care.

Dr. Christiana Vida Montefalcon, head of Clinical, Medical, Regulatory & Pharmacovigilance of Novo Nordisk Philippines, underscored that for many patients, obesity is not simply a matter of diet and exercise, but a chronic disease that could require long-term health management and medical treatment. As such, newer therapies can play a critical role particularly for individuals who have struggled to achieve or sustain weight loss through conventional methods alone.

“Advancements like these are changing the way we approach obesity care,” Dr. Montefalcon shared. “They allow us to address the biological drivers of the disease, giving patients a more realistic and sustainable path toward better health.” “This is not just about weight loss,” she noted. “It is about the over-all health and condition of people living with obesity.”

Reinforcing this, Wei Sun added, “Live Lighter is more than a campaign. It is a commitment to change the way obesity is understood and managed in the Philippines. By bringing science- based care, including innovative treatments, closer to patients, we hope to empower more Filipinos to take control of their health in a sustainable and medically guided way.”

From stigma to science

Despite its growing prevalence, obesity continues to be framed largely around willpower and lifestyle choices, often delaying diagnosis and limiting access to appropriate care. Health experts at the launch emphasized that this outdated narrative can prevent people from seeking help and restrict the adoption of effective, evidence-based interventions.

“Treating obesity as a disease changes everything, from how patients are supported to how healthcare systems respond,” said Dr. Montefalcon. “It allows for earlier intervention, more comprehensive care, and better long-term outcomes.”

The Live Lighter movement brings together media, healthcare professionals, industry partners, and patient advocates to promote a more informed and compassionate approach; one that centers on patient realities and health outcomes, not just weight.

A growing public health priority

The initiative comes at a time when obesity is increasingly recognized as a major contributor to non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers—placing a growing burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system.

Recent findings from the Epidemiological Burden and Cost of Obesity in the Philippines (EpiCOb-PH) study highlight the scale of the challenge, estimating that obesity cost the Philippine economy approximately Php 1.9 trillion in 2025—equivalent to 7.3% of GDP—and could reach up to Php 2.7 trillion when overweight-related conditions are included.

As awareness grows, so does the urgency to address obesity through a more structured, science-based approach that integrates prevention, early intervention, and long-term care.

Collective action

Beyond treatment, the movement underscores the need for collective action across sectors to address obesity more effectively—from improving public understanding and reducing stigma to strengthening healthcare systems and expanding access to care.

“Addressing obesity requires more than awareness. It requires a shift in mindset across healthcare, policy, and society,” said Anand Shetty, vice president for Novo Nordisk Business Area Southeast Asia. “With Live Lighter, we are working to move from stigma to science, and from fragmented efforts to a more coordinated, patient-centered approach to care.”

The launch also highlighted the role of global partnerships in advancing local health priorities, reinforcing how shared expertise and innovation can help bring evidence-based care closer to patients.

As the Live Lighter movement gains momentum, Novo Nordisk aims to spark a broader national conversation—one that recognizes obesity not as a personal failure, but as a serious, treatable disease.

“Because when we treat obesity right, we change lives, not just for individuals, but for families and communities,” Wei Sun continued. “That is the impact we hope to achieve through Live Lighter movement.”

Recently conducted the first regional run of its flagship cybersecurity capacity-building program in Cebu City, highlighting its commitment to nation-building by empowering regional law enforcement and justice partners in efforts to protect Filipinos from digital threats.

(Photo L-R) State Counsel Atty. Khersien Bautista of DOJ-OOC, George Marcaida of Zero Day Solutions Corp., Prof. Philip Kwa of Asian Institute of Management, Elena Torrijos of BPI, Col. Jay Guillermo of PNP-ACG RACU 7, and Atty. Christine Lovely Red-Allego and Vega Fria Devoma of BPI at the BPI CyberAcademy learning session in Seda Ayala Center Cebu on November 27, 2025.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), together with key government and private partners, recently conducted the first regional run of its flagship cybersecurity capacity-building program in Cebu City, highlighting its commitment to nation-building by empowering regional law enforcement and justice partners in efforts to protect Filipinos from digital threats.

The CyberAcademy 2025: Strengthening Cyber Capacity for Law Enforcement and Prosecutors learning session held November 27 and 28, 2025 was co-organized with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Region 7, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), and the Department of Justice–Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC).

“When we first launched BPI’s CyberAcademy program, we envisioned building a stronger, more capable, and more coordinated frontline against cybercrime. Today, we bring that same commitment here to Cebu and Region 7, recognizing the crucial role this region plays in the country’s digital landscape,” said Elena Torrijos, BPI’s Head of Public Affairs and Communications in her opening remarks.

The training session gathered more than 70 police investigators from PNP Region 7 and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU 7) and prosecutors from the Office of the Regional Prosecutor.

In his closing message, Col. Jay Guillermo of PNP-ACG RACU 7 underscored how the session created a valuable space for prosecutors and police officers in Region VII to connect and build rapport. He noted that this strengthened relationship is critical in ensuring a more unified and effective response to scams and other cyber-enabled threats against the public.

It is a festival powered by Globe 5G, the country’s most consistent and reliable mobile and broadband network, connecting people in ways never seen before. From sunrise processions to vibrant street dances and high-energy night performances, festivalgoers, media, and content creators rely on Globe 5G to livestream, navigate, and share experiences in real time. Every dance, cheer, and personal story is captured, uploaded, and shared instantly, making Sinulog the most connected festival in the Visayas.

Globe’s expansive 5G coverage and dependable network performance ensure smooth livestreams, fast uploads, and reliable navigation across crowded streets and parade routes. Even in peak festival moments, connectivity remains strong, allowing attendees to find their way, coordinate meetups, and share festival highlights seamlessly. This same consistency and reliability support everyday digital needs in cities and communities nationwide, reinforcing Globe’s mission to make meaningful connectivity accessible to more Filipinos.

At the heart of this connected experience is an exclusive Globe 5G media activation, where media partners, content creators, and select stakeholders can upload content, livestream, and share festival moments in real time. Equipped with high-speed 5G connectivity, upload stations, livestream zones, and interview touchpoints, the space highlights how modern festivals thrive on speed, storytelling, and always-on connections. Media partners, content creators and influencers are also issued exclusive Globe 5G media passports, unlocking access to curated festival touchpoints and immersive on-ground experiences.

Adding to the experience, the Globe 5G Energy Missions demonstrate how 5G goes beyond connectivity. These initiatives show how Globe 5G powers not just entertainment, but also energy, learning, and innovation, making every festival moment smarter, more interactive, and more meaningful for communities and festivalgoers alike.

Headline moments such as the Globe Music Festival and TikTok LyveFest are powered by Globe 5G, enabling fans to stream performances, create content, and engage in real time. Partner activations from Jollibee and Leslie’s are likewise amplified through reliable connectivity, turning every interaction into a shareable digital moment.

“Sinulog is about devotion, culture, and coming together as a community,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Globe Chief Marketing Officer. “With our most consistent and reliable network, we help people move freely, capture moments instantly, and experience every part of the festival without missing a beat. This reflects our broader commitment to building strong digital infrastructure nationwide, so no Filipino is left behind.”

For over three decades, Camella has mirrored the spirit of faith and forward living in the Queen City, building family-centered communities spanning tourist destinations, growth centers, and infralink corridors.

Stabilizing value in sustaining economies

Travel destinations such as Bogo and Carcar are defined by community commerce and the flow of people and services. These dynamics fuel local activity and heighten the requirement for residential environments that offer consistency. Camella communities respond by prioritizing safety through gated perimeters and round-the-clock security, creating a clear distinction between the vitality of tourism and the vision of modern living.

In Camella Bogo, coastal charm and growing commerce come together—creating a secure, family-centered community in one of Cebu’s rising tourist destinations.

Proximity to town centers, transport links, and tourist destinations enables residents to participate in domestic enterprise without compromising convenience. In these markets, value extends to continuity—homes designed for Filipinos that support multiple generations in cities where culture and commerce converge.

Managing metropolitan momentum

Camella communities such as Montserrat, Pasadena, Riverfront, and Talamban have emerged alongside centers of education, business, retail, and lifestyle. These absorb population inflows and employment demand, positioning them as structured pillars in Cebu's strategic evolution.

Riverdale places your home at the heart of Cebu’s expanding road networks—linking work, life, and leisure with ease. Here, accessibility drives everyday comfort and long-term value.

In these built environments, dream communities serve as a distinct differentiator. Purposeful planning, shared amenities, and landscaped spaces introduce balance to the acceleration of urban activity, supporting productivity while preserving personal well-being. These growth centers represent prudent property positioning as business districts and service hubs support steady capital appreciation.

Leveraging infrastructure for lasting value

With infralink developments such as Azienda in Talisay, Camella aligns communities with road networks and regional connectors, enabling enhanced mobility that integrates suburban settings with patterns of living, working, and investing. From a business lens, early positioning allows investors to benefit from compounding value as these projects progress.

Azienda rises with Cebu’s momentum, offering thoughtfully planned homes near emerging business and lifestyle hubs. It is where urban energy meets balanced, future-ready living.

A place-led philosophy that lasts

The endurance of Sinulog lies in its ability to remain meaningful while moving forward, and the presence of Camella in Cebu echoes the same principle. Across tourist destinations, growth centers, and infralink corridors, it has demonstrated a place-based approach to residential development, understanding how culture, location, and infrastructure intersect with community living to create a legacy of value. Camella communities are purposefully positioned addresses that move with progress, today and for generations ahead.

Designed for rest, play, and connection, Camella’s amenities, like the clubhouse and pool, bring families together—creating spaces where memories are made, and community thrives.

A home for generations

Camella is the flagship brand of Vista Land, providing 1,250 beautifully designed communities in 49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities. Camella builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress, with family and community life at their center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.

As the Philippines’ most trusted and preferred homebuilder held its Christmas Tree Lighting Event and Homecoming Fair, a heartwarming celebration of Filipino homecoming and the lifelong dream of homeownership.

Christmas lights came alive in a synchronized display of festivity, marking the official start of the holiday season. At the heart of every neighborhood stood a towering Christmas tree, surrounded by families, residents, homebuyers, and business partners, all gathered to witness a timeless tradition that has come to define the Camella legacy of connection and continuity.

A celebration that illuminated the nation

The evening opened with performances by children's choirs, their cheerful voices filling the air with Christmas carols that evoked nostalgia and joy. Before the program began, mini parols were distributed to guests, creating a sea of soft, glowing lights signifying thanksgiving and togetherness.

Camella Ormoc North

As the music played, families, residents, homebuyers, investors, and business partners gathered around the stage, where live feeds from key locations linked Camella communities nationwide in a unified moment.

Camella Team

Event hosts welcomed the crowd, sharing stories and successes of families who found their forever homes with Camella. The highlight followed: guests switched on mini parols and approached the Christmas trees as Camella Group Heads led the ceremonial lighting. At the signal, thousands of lights illuminated communities nationwide, accompanied by children's choirs singing Christmas medleys. The spectacle culminated in a fireworks display, symbolizing the beginning of another season of giving and gratitude.

Festivities for families and the community

After the Christmas tree lighting event, guests enjoyed a seasonal spread filled with Filipino favorites, including puto bumbong and bibingka, as well as hot cocoa and salabat, which brought the comforting flavors of Christmas to every table. Camella communities also featured on-site activities that turned each neighborhood into a holiday fairground.

Camella Prima Butuan

Children gathered at the kids’ crafts corner, where they made ornaments and wrote letters to parents, friends, and even Santa Claus. Families strolled through community market booths, supporting artisans and start-up businesses offering Christmas goods, gifts, and delicacies, fostering the spirit of bayanihan and local enterprise.

The Christmas Homecoming Fair: Extending the welcome of home

The week following the Christmas Tree Lighting, Camella held the Homecoming Fair, continuing the celebration of heart, home, and homeownership.

(From Top Left Clockwise): Camella Azienda Batangas, Camella Aklan and Camella Monticello in SJDM Bulacan

To make the event more meaningful, Camella launches a special promo exclusive to the Homecoming Fair. Homebuyers will receive kitchen appliances depending on their reservation contract price to bring the spirit of the season into their new homes. These thoughtful tokens represent the comfort, convenience, and care that Camella extends to every Filipino household.

Camella honors those who continue to invest in their roots. Overseas Filipino homebuyers and investors with verified information, such as a passport, seaman’s book, or an ongoing employment contract, will receive a gift certificate for an overnight stay for two (2) at the Brittany Hotel Global South, perfect for a restful return or a cheerful celebration.

Home for the holidays

Camella continues its cherished Christmas tradition of welcoming families home through its annual Home for the Holidays campaign. This year shines the spotlight on homes for every hope and household, offering special savings for spot and flexible payment options and seasonal surprises that make homeownership more heartfelt, hopeful, and within reach during the most joyful time of the year.

The Philippines’ largest homebuilder

Camella is the flagship brand of the Philippines’ largest integrated property developer, Vista Land, providing beautifully designed communities in 49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities.

Camella, the leading and preferred housing brand with a nationwide geographic reach, builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.