Oona Insurance Introduces Global Shield and Purple Shield: Seamless Digital Access, Preventive Care, and World-Class Protection for Filipinos

Oona Insurance, one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing general insurers, continues to redefine health protection for Filipinos with the launch of two flagship health products: Global Shield, an international health plan offering worldwide coverage of up to USD 2 million, and Purple Shield, a premier peso-based plan providing up to ₱5 million in local coverage for Filipino families seeking exceptional care close to home.

The launch took place on October 1 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City, attended by media representatives, partners, and industry leaders. The event featured award-winning actress and wellness advocate Jodi Sta. Maria, who delivered an inspiring talk titled “Wellness: The Investment You Can’t Ignore.” Her message underscored the growing importance of prevention and holistic well-being—values that align perfectly with Oona’s mission to go beyond treatment and empower Filipinos to live healthier lives.

Meeting Evolving Healthcare Needs

As healthcare costs continue to outpace income growth, Oona’s new health products respond to the increasing demand for better, more flexible medical coverage among Filipino families.

Global Shield is designed for globally mobile Filipinos who seek access to world-class hospitals and medical specialists across the globe. It includes comprehensive benefits, with competitive options for treatment in Singapore, Hong Kong, and other leading medical destinations.

Purple Shield, on the other hand, provides Filipino families with affordable, peso-based coverage that ensures access to top-tier hospitals, doctors, and preventive healthcare services right here in the Philippines.

Together, these two plans move beyond traditional “one-size-fits-all” health insurance, offering Filipinos the freedom to choose coverage that fits their lifestyle, needs, and financial goals.

Oona first entered the health protection space last year with its critical illness insurance offerings. The introduction of Global Shield and Purple Shield marks an expansion of its portfolio—signaling Oona’s long-term commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and future-ready healthcare protection for every Filipino household.

Digital-First and Customer-Centered

What truly sets Oona apart is its digital-first, customer-first approach. The company’s technology-driven platform simplifies every step of the insurance experience, from application to claims.

Customers enjoy:

Instant online quotes and same-day policy issuance for eligible applicants

Real-time claims tracking with full transparency

24/7 digital access to policy details, benefits, and claims utilization

Paperless onboarding using secure e-signatures

Fully digital overseas claims for faster reimbursements

This seamless ecosystem delivers speed, transparency, and convenience—setting a new benchmark for health insurance in the Philippines.

Leadership Insights


“The Philippines is ready for a new standard in health protection,” said Abhishek Bhatia, Founder and Group CEO of Oona Insurance. “Rising medical costs and changing lifestyles demand solutions that go beyond the basics. With Global Shield and Purple Shield, we’re reimagining healthcare for Filipinos—delivering world-class coverage, digital accessibility, and peace of mind wherever they are in the world.”

“For Filipinos, protection isn’t just about paying hospital bills—it’s about keeping families healthy,” added Ninoy Rollan, CEO of Oona Philippines. “That’s why we go beyond treatment to include preventive and wellness benefits like annual check-ups, vaccinations, mental health support, and telemedicine. True protection means taking care of mind, body, and family.”

Accessible Care, Anytime, Anywhere

Through strategic partnerships with MediLink and Doctor Anywhere, Oona members gain access to:

Cashless transactions at over 650 hospitals and clinics nationwide

24/7 virtual consultations with more than 750 licensed doctors online

The freedom to consult preferred international healthcare providers under Global Shield

With these integrations, Oona ensures that care is accessible, convenient, and continuous—whether at home, on the go, or abroad.

A Vision for a Healthier, More Confident Philippines

The launch of Global Shield and Purple Shield represents Oona’s vision to make health protection accessible, digital, and family-first. By combining global standards with local relevance, Oona gives Filipinos the confidence that with the right protection, nothing can hold them back.

Both plans are now available through Oona Philippines and its network of trusted insurance advisors and partners.
For more information, visit myoona.ph.

About Oona Insurance Group

Headquartered in Singapore, Oona Insurance is Southeast Asia’s leading digital general insurer, backed by global private equity firm Warburg Pincus. Established in 2022, Oona aims to become the insurer of choice across the region through its buy-and-build strategy—anchored on superior customer experience, advanced technology, and strong partnerships.

In the Philippines, Oona traces its roots to 1934, formerly known as MAPFRE Insurance. After strategic partnerships and acquisitions, including a collaboration with Insular Life, the company became part of Oona Philippines Holding Corporation in 2022 and was fully acquired in 2023. Rebranded as Oona Insurance Corporation in early 2025, the company now offers a broad portfolio spanning health, travel, motor, property, and personal accident insurance, solidifying its place as a trusted name in modern protection.

Big Bad Wolf Books Roars Back to Metro Manila with Its Biggest Sale Yet at Filinvest Tent

The world’s biggest book sale has once again landed in Metro Manila, bringing with it an unmatched celebration of stories, ideas, and discoveries. From October 2 to 13, 2025, the Filinvest Tent in Alabang is transformed into a massive book haven, showcasing over two million titles across countless genres that inspire, educate, and entertain.

Known worldwide for making books more accessible and affordable, Big Bad Wolf Books continues to ignite the love of reading among Filipinos of all ages. Whether you’re a casual reader in search of lighthearted stories, a student in need of reference books, or a collector hunting for rare finds, this year’s sale promises something extraordinary for everyone.

A Grand Kick-Off with VIP Day

The excitement began with an exclusive VIP Day, where early bird readers, partners, and members had the first pick of millions of books, special discounts, and raffle prizes. The festive atmosphere buzzed with energy as guests eagerly explored tables stacked with everything from contemporary fiction and children’s classics to inspiring self-help guides and bestselling non-fiction.

If you missed VIP Day, there’s no need to worry—the sale runs until October 13, giving every book lover the chance to browse, shop, and take home literary treasures at unbeatable prices.
Leaders Speak: Changing the World, One Book at a Time

The opening ceremony featured heartfelt messages from Big Bad Wolf’s leadership team, reaffirming the brand’s mission to nurture a global reading culture.

Ley Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines, expressed gratitude for the warm reception:

“Big Bad Wolf has always been about changing the world, one book at a time. It’s inspiring to know that every sale brings us closer to more Filipino families discovering the joy of reading.”

Bernard Lee, Business Director of Big Bad Wolf Books Malaysia, echoed the excitement:

“With millions of books and incredible deals, we hope every visitor takes home not only great reads but also lasting memories.”

The event was also graced by distinguished guests and partners, including His Excellency Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, and key leaders from Filinvest Malls and Filinvest City Association, Inc., who joined the ribbon-cutting to officially launch the sale.

A Treasure Trove of Books at Unbeatable Prices

One of the biggest draws of Big Bad Wolf is its massive discounts. This year is no exception, with titles priced at a fraction of their original cost. Readers can snag incredible deals such as:

Fold-Out Timeline Planet Earth by Rachel Firth – from ₱700 to just ₱340

The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez – from ₱800 to ₱340

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry – from ₱1,500 to ₱500

The Chimp Paradox by Steve Peters – from ₱1,200 to ₱560

Quiet Times with God Devotional by Joyce Meyer – from ₱1,000 to ₱440

Find Your Power: Tarot (Hardcover) by Erin Regulski – from ₱1,000 to ₱560

With so many titles covering fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, lifestyle, and spirituality, every visit feels like a new adventure waiting to be explored.

Exciting Raffle Prizes Await

Shopping at Big Bad Wolf Books comes with extra perks. For every ₱5,000 spent in a single receipt, customers earn a raffle entry for a chance to win exciting prizes:

Minor Prize: IKEA bookshelf with decals plus 100 books

Major Prize: An iPad for the ultimate reading and digital experience

Grand Prize: A three-day getaway for two with hotel accommodations included

Winners will be announced on October 11 at 11:45 PM.

Event Details

Venue: The Filinvest Tent, Alabang

Dates: October 2 to 13, 2025

Sale Hours: Monday–Thursday (10 AM–10 PM), Friday–Sunday (10 AM–12 Midnight)

Admission: Free

Don’t Miss Out!

With its wide selection, unbeatable discounts, and exciting raffle prizes, Big Bad Wolf Books at the Filinvest Tent is more than just a book sale—it’s a literary adventure that every Filipino reader should experience. Get there early, explore every aisle, and discover the magic of books that will stay with you long after the sale ends.

For updates on upcoming sales and events, follow Big Bad Wolf Books on Facebook and Instagram or visit their official website.

UNLEASH Philippines 2025: Unlocking the Power of Young Filipino Innovators

The spirit of Filipino innovation took center stage as the Philippines hosted its first-ever UNLEASH Regional Innovation Lab at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), gathering 150 of the country’s brightest minds to co-create solutions addressing urgent challenges in health, food systems, and infrastructure.

Held in September 2025, the week-long program marked a historic milestone for UNLEASH in the Philippines. It also formed part of the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF) Launchpad, linking local talents to a global network of innovators and change-makers.

A Global Innovation Methodology Brought to the Philippines

UNLEASH, an international platform known for nurturing sustainable solutions to global issues, brought its Innovation Methodology to the country. Previously deployed in Denmark, Singapore, China, India, Greenland, Rwanda, and Brazil, this structured design-thinking process guided participants from problem framing to ideation, prototyping, and pitching — all within just one week.

The Philippine edition featured 14 trained facilitators from eight nationalities, ensuring that participants were not only guided by technical expertise but also enriched by diverse perspectives.

“Technology on its own isn’t enough to solve big problems,” emphasized Jackie Stenson, Managing Director of UNLEASH. “You have to understand and serve the whole system: the people, the communities, and the structures around it. That’s what we encourage at UNLEASH — creating solutions that can truly reach users and deliver real-world impact.”

Representing the Whole Nation

The 150 innovators hailed from all 17 regions of the Philippines, representing both urban centers and remote rural communities. This diverse composition ensured that proposed solutions were deeply rooted in local realities while remaining aligned with national development priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Participants worked across three thematic tracks:

Health Equity & Biomedical Innovation – addressing gaps in access to healthcare and new biomedical tools.

Resilient Agriculture & Food Systems – tackling food security and climate-related challenges in farming.

Sustainable Cities & Communities through Engineering Innovation – exploring solutions for infrastructure, mobility, and urban resilience.

By the end of the week, teams had developed 34 early-stage solutions, all of which will move forward to further refinement and prototyping.

Building More Than Solutions — Building a Community

Beyond the prototypes, UNLEASH Philippines created a vibrant community of leaders and innovators. Engineers, scientists, healthcare professionals, community representatives, and creatives collaborated in ways that transcended disciplines, building lasting connections that will extend beyond the Innovation Lab.

The program was hosted by UST through its TOMASInno Center Technology Business Incubator, underscoring the university’s commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. By bringing together individuals from varied backgrounds — whether students, researchers, or seasoned professionals — UNLEASH created a level playing fieldwhere everyone had equal access to mentorship, tools, and resources.

From Local to Global Impact

UNLEASH Philippines 2025 reinforced the belief that Filipino innovators are not only idea generators but also solution builders. With the right frameworks, mentorship, and global exposure, their projects can scale to serve both local communities and international markets.

As the participants continue refining their prototypes, they now carry with them more than just solutions — they carry the collective mission of making a measurable impact on society. With UNLEASH’s global network behind them, these Filipino innovators are poised to shape a better future for the Philippines and contribute to solving global challenges.

McDonald’s Philippines Launches the Golden Curry Fillet: A New Sulit Meal That’s a Certified “Chef’s Kiss”

When it comes to affordable yet flavorful meals, McDonald’s Philippines has always been at the top of mind for Filipino diners. With classics like the Crispy Chicken Fillet and Chicken Fillet Ala King already enjoying a loyal following, McDonald’s is once again leveling up its menu with a new dish that blends comfort and bold flavors: the Golden Curry Fillet.

This exciting new addition features a crispy chicken fillet topped with golden curry sauce enhanced by coconut milk, striking the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creaminess. It’s a unique take on curry that’s tailor-made for the Filipino palate—so good that it’s already been endorsed with a chef’s kiss by award-winning actress and chef Judy Ann Santos.

Why the Golden Curry Fillet Stands Out

Curry dishes are beloved around the world, but getting the flavor right can be tricky. McDonald’s Philippines found the perfect formula by creating a curry sauce that’s rich, comforting, and exciting at the same time. The secret? Coconut milk, or gata, a staple in Filipino cooking.

According to Ada Almendras-Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald’s Philippines, the addition of gata balances the boldness of curry with creaminess and sweetness that resonates with local tastes.

“Coconut milk or gata is widely used in Filipino dishes. Combined with the boldness and kick of curry, it creates a sauce that is both comforting and exciting,” Almendras-Lazaro shares. “Curry is not always easy to get right, but with the Golden Curry Fillet, mapapa-chef’s kiss ka talaga sa sarap.”

The Golden Curry Fillet meal pairs this luscious sauce with McDonald’s signature Crispy Chicken Fillet and steamed white rice, resulting in a satisfying meal that feels both familiar and new.

Golden Curry Fillet Price and Sulit Meals

The best part? You don’t need to spend big to enjoy this flavorful treat. The Golden Curry Fillet starts at only ₱99 as part of McDonald’s McSavers Sulit-Busog Meals. The set comes with extra rice and a regular drink, making it an affordable yet filling option for lunch, dinner, or even a quick comfort-food fix.

At this sulit price point, the Golden Curry Fillet proves that you can enjoy bold, chef-approved flavors without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy the McDonald’s Golden Curry Fillet

Craving the Golden Curry Fillet already? Good news—it’s available nationwide across all McDonald’s Philippines stores. You can order it in whichever way suits your lifestyle:

Dine-in for a hot, freshly served meal.

Take-out to bring the flavor home.

Drive-Thru for a quick grab-and-go option.

McDelivery and McDonald’s App for the ultimate convenience of enjoying it at home or the office.

With multiple options for purchase, satisfying your Golden Curry cravings has never been easier.

A Celebration of Local Flavors

The launch of the Golden Curry Fillet highlights McDonald’s Philippines’ commitment to continuous menu innovation. By blending globally loved dishes with Filipino-inspired flavors, the brand ensures every new item resonates with local diners while delivering the quality and consistency McDonald’s is known for worldwide.

Already loved by customers and given a “chef’s kiss” seal of approval by Juday herself, the Golden Curry Fillet is shaping up to be the next must-try meal in the McDonald’s lineup.

Don’t Miss Out

The McDonald’s Golden Curry Fillet is now available in all McDonald’s stores across the country for a limited time only. Be sure to grab this sulit meal before it’s gone—you’ll understand why it’s being called the newest chef’s kiss of flavor.

For more details about McDonald’s menu, promos, and delivery options, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph. Stay updated by following @McDo.ph on Facebook and @McDo_ph on Instagram for mouthwatering food content and promo announcements.