Optum Philippines Expands Presence in Cebu with New Regional Hub

Optum Philippines VP for People Rain Tan, Managing Director Samarth Mathur, and Senior Director and Cebu Operations Site Lead for Cebu Glenda Banawa-Roco

CEBU, Philippines — Optum Philippines, one of the leading healthcare global capability centers (GCC) in the Philippines, officially inaugurated its new offices in the heart of Cebu IT Park. As part of UnitedHealth Group, the organization demonstrated its strong commitment to recognizing, nurturing, and growing talent, thereby strengthening Cebu’s strategic position as a vital hub for healthcare innovation and professional excellence.

Optum Philippines Managing Director Samarth Mathur welcomes guests to the newly opened site in Cebu

“The new Cebu office marks an exciting chapter for Optum in the Philippines,” said Samarth Mathur, Managing Director of Optum Philippines. “Located in Cebu IT Park, it reflects our confidence in the role of Filipino talent in shaping global healthcare. Through spaces that encourage collaboration and innovation, we look forward to supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders.”

Unlocking Cebu’s Potential as a Global Capability Center Hub

As the Philippines continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for GCCs, Optum Philippines is expanding its capabilities beyond traditional operational support to deliver specialized healthcare services. This evolution reflects broader shifts in healthcare, where work increasingly centers on analytics, digital health solutions, automation, AI-enabled workflows, and innovation. As a result, new career opportunities are emerging in areas such as healthcare analytics, digital operations, pharmacy account management, and AI-related functions, enabling talent to build specialized skills and contribute to global healthcare outcomes.

Cebu plays a key role in this transformation, supported by a skilled workforce increasingly engaged in higher-value healthcare and technology work with global impact. To support industry collaboration in the region, Optum Philippines, in partnership with the Global Capability Center Council Philippines (GC3) and Toby’s Sports, recently hosted the inaugural Optum GC3 Cup, a one-day pickleball tournament that brought together representatives from GC3 member organizations and promoted connection and wellness through sports and movement across the Cebu GCC community.

Empowering Talent Through Upskilling and Innovation

As demand for higher-value GCC roles continues to evolve, Optum Philippines remains focused on developing talent equipped to contribute across increasingly specialized areas of healthcare, technology, and business operations.

The organization also celebrated the completion of the first cohort of its Technology Development Program (TDP). This program is designed to develop high-potential graduates into enterprise technology talent through structured learning, hands-on experience, and global collaboration opportunities. As part of their development journey, TDP associates participated in an Enterprise Early Careers bootcamp alongside peers from the United States, India, and Ireland, providing early exposure to cross-functional teamwork and enterprise-wide learning. The TDP also reflects Optum Philippines’ growing partnerships with academic institutions across the region to help create pathways for graduates to pursue careers in healthcare technology and digital innovation.

Redefining the Workplace Experience

Optum Philippines continues to prioritize belonging through intentionally designed workplace experiences and environments. The new Cebu office features collaborative workspaces, wellness rooms, and recreational areas that encourage connection, productivity, and balance.

Optum Philippines Managing Director Samarth Mathur welcomes guests to the newly opened site in Cebu

“Employee wellbeing is vital to creating a workplace culture where people can thrive,” said Glenda Banawa-Roco, Senior Director for Operations and Cebu Site Lead at Optum Philippines. “As a healthcare organization, care is at the heart of everything we do, and that extends to our workforce, whose contributions help drive our success.”

For more information on Optum Philippines and its initiatives, visit the official website or Optum Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn.

New on the Menu: This Month's Eats in Visayas at SM Supermalls

Your monthly food plans just got an upgrade! 🤤 From Iloilo to Cebu, SM Supermalls is welcoming three dining names that give you one less reason to reply 'any!' in the group chat. 

This month's lineup covers every kind of craving: bold Tex-Mex favorites, Filipino dishes built for sharing, and Japanese hamburg steaks served fresh off the grill. 

Whether you're planning a celebration, a quick catch-up, or a dinner that breaks the routine, here are three new tables worth checking out at SM Supermalls!

• Chili's  

Bring a big appetite and the whole barkada! Chili's is opening this September at SM City Iloilo, bringing its signature burgers, sizzling fajitas, ribs, and handcrafted drinks. Marking the brand's first branch in the region, it's an easy pick for family celebrations, casual dinners, or any day that calls for bold flavors and shareable plates.

• George & Onnie's 

Family recipes take center stage at George & Onnie's, opening soon at SM City Cebu. Its first branch in the Visayas brings modern Filipino comfort food made for sharing, perfect for long lunches, family gatherings, and those days when only a hearty, familiar meal will do.

• Niku Niku Oh!! Kome 

Ready for dinner with a little more sizzle? Niku Niku Oh!! Kome is coming to SM City Cebu for its first location in VisMin! Known for freshly made Japanese beef hamburg steaks grilled in front of diners and paired with Japanese rice, it turns comfort food into an experience you can customize with every bite. Come for the aroma, stay for the satisfying plate, and bring the friend who's always first to suggest Japanese food! 👀

One mall run, three ways to update your food plans! Go for Tex-Mex favorites in Iloilo, settle into Filipino comfort food in Cebu, or make room for a Japanese hamburg steak experience making its VisMin debut. 

Whichever table matches the mood, this month at SM Supermalls Visayas brings more reasons to gather, celebrate, and try something worth talking about. That's MY SM, always intentional with you! 💙

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at SM Supermalls. Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for updates.

SM City Mindpro, DTI 9 Empowers MSMEs Through Business Continuity Plan Workshop

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 15 September 2026 – Reinforcing its commitment to supporting local enterprises and fostering sustainable economic growth, SM City Mindpro, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9, conducted a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Training-Workshop for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the region.

The initiative brought together entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry stakeholders for a comprehensive learning session aimed at strengthening business resilience and preparedness in the face of evolving challenges and uncertainties. Through the workshop, participants gained practical knowledge on how to safeguard their operations, protect their workforce, and ensure continuity during disruptions.

Leading the discussion was John Mayo Enriquez, President and Managing Partner of Ascent Consultancy, who served as the resource speaker. Drawing from his expertise in business strategy, organizational development, and risk management, Enriquez shared valuable insights on developing effective business continuity plans that enable enterprises to adapt, recover, and thrive amidst changing business conditions. 

For SM City Mindpro, the activity reflects its dedication not only as a business destination but also as a community partner that actively supports the growth and sustainability of local enterprises.

“At SM City Mindpro, we believe that empowering MSMEs means investing in the long-term strength of our local economy. Through initiatives like this, we aim to help entrepreneurs develop the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence. We are proud to partner with DTI Region 9 in creating learning platforms that contribute to the success and sustainability of our business community,” shared Engr. Rommel Bellen, Assistant Mall Manager of SM City Mindpro.

The partnership between SM City Mindpro and DTI Region 9 underscores a shared commitment to nurturing a resilient MSME sector, recognizing its vital role in driving innovation, generating employment, and stimulating inclusive economic growth in the region.

As MSMEs continue to serve as the backbone of local economies, initiatives such as the BCP Training-Workshop demonstrate how meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors can empower entrepreneurs and contribute to a more resilient and prosperous Region 9.

Through programs that promote learning, preparedness, and innovation, SM City Mindpro remains steadfast in its mission of creating shared value for communities and supporting the continued growth of local businesses that drive regional development.

SM Group receives 15 Philippine Quill Awards for stakeholder communications

SM Foundation's health and wellness programs continue to bring basic healthcare services directly to communities nationwide.

PASAY CITY, Philippines, 07 September 2026 — SM Group companies received 15 Philippine Quill Awards, including six Excellence Awards, for communications programs spanning community engagement, customer service, financial education, investor relations and digital communications.

The awards went to SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, and businesses across the Group, including SM Foundation, Inc., SM Supermalls (Shopping Center Management Corporation), BDO Unibank, Inc., China Banking Corporation and Signature Series by SM Residences (Signatures Development Corp).

“Good communication helps people understand what our businesses do and why it matters to them,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments. “These awards reflect the work across the Group to communicate clearly with the customers, investors, partners and communities we serve.”

SM Foundation received four awards, including three Excellence Awards. Its “Utilizing Social Good as a Force for Transformation” campaign received Excellence Awards for Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility, while #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online: Transforming Lives Through Heartfelt Storytelling received an Excellence Award for Social Media. Its social good report was also recognized under Publications.

“Communication is an important part of strengthening the impact of development programs,” said Debbie Sy, Executive Director of SM Foundation. “It helps communities understand the opportunities available to them, gives people a voice, and brings partners closer to our mission. That is what spreading social good means to us, using communication to help social good initiatives reach and engage more people.”

BDO received four awards, including three Excellence Awards. “Life Insurance: The Key to Heaven?”and “Tuloy ang Plano: Making Plan B a Family Necessity” received Excellence Awards for Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication, while “Your Child’s Dreams Need a Plan B” received an Excellence Award for Audio/Visual Communication. BDO Remit’s “Alagang Kabayan: Where Every Kabayan Belongs” was also recognized for Social Media.

SM Investments was recognized for SM In Focus, a group-wide online channel as part of SM’s evolving approach to stakeholder communication, leveraging on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to provide timely, structured, and relevant insights on the group’s operations and impact.

SM In Focus host Rico Hizon (center) visits the Philippine Geothermal Production Company’s Tiwi site to gather groundbreaking business initiatives and sustainability stories for the online channel.

SM Supermalls received three awards for Active Hub, Mindanao and International Coastal 2025, covering Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Through Mindanao Art, SM Supermalls provides a platform for Filipino artists to showcase Mindanao's diverse creativity and cultural heritage.

“Our programs begin with understanding what our customers and communities need,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Communication helps us listen, respond and keep improving how we serve them.”

Chinabank received two awards. Its Investor Relations: Focused on Value campaign was recognized for Financial Communication and Investor Relations, while My CBC Campaign: An App Fit for Beauty Queens was recognized for Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication.

Signature Series was recognized for “Setting a New Mark in Premium Residential Living” under Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication.

Organized by the International Association of Business Communicators Philippines (IABC), the Philippine Quill Awards recognize communication programs and practices across organizations in the country. This year’s winners were selected from more than 800 entries evaluated against IABC standards.

SM City Mindpro Hosts Zamboanga City Fire District’s 911 Fire Square Roadshow

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines 11 September, 2026 – Demonstrating its commitment to fostering a safer and more resilient community, SM City Mindpro partnered with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Zamboanga City Fire District in hosting the 911 Fire Square Roadshow today at the mall's Level 3 Activity Area.

Held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, the event gathered mallgoers, students, and members of the community for an interactive learning experience centered on emergency preparedness, fire safety awareness, and public access to emergency services.

A key highlight of the activity was the launch of 911 E-Connect, an initiative of the Zamboanga City Fire District that provides the public with a direct and accessible link to emergency services. The platform is designed to enhance communication between residents and emergency responders, contributing to faster coordination during emergencies.

The roadshow also featured informative exhibit showcasing the equipment and tools used by firefighters and rescue personnel in responding to various emergency situations. Adding a unique and engaging element to the program, BFP personnel served as models in a special presentation of the Bureau's various uniforms, demonstrating the distinct roles and functions performed by firefighters and emergency responders.

Through interactive displays and public engagement activities, participants gained valuable insights into fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and practical safety measures that can help protect lives and property. 

Assistant Mall Manager Engr. Rommel Bellen emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting safety and preparedness within the community.

“At SM City Mindpro, the safety and well-being of our customers, tenants, and employees remain among our top priorities. We are honored to provide a venue for meaningful initiatives such as the 911 Fire Square Roadshow, which help educate the public and strengthen emergency preparedness. Through partnerships with agencies like the BFP, we can collectively build a safer and more informed community,” Bellen said.

The activity forms part of SM City Mindpro's continuing efforts to support programs that create awareness, encourage civic participation, and promote public safety. By bringing together government agencies, community stakeholders, and the public, the mall continues to serve as a platform for initiatives that contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of the Zamboanga community.

LIST: Philippines Official Holidays and Long Weekends for 2027 (Proclamation No. 1427)

Plan your vacations and long weekends early! President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Proclamation No. 1427, s. 2026 on September 8, 2026, officially declaring the regular holidays and special (non-working) days across the Philippines for the year 2027.

Here is the complete list of national holidays to help you schedule your leaves, family gatherings, and trips across Cebu and beyond.

Regular Holidays for 2027

Under Section 1 of the proclamation, the following are designated as national regular holidays:

• January 1 (Friday) – New Year's Day

• March 25 – Maundy Thursday

• March 26 – Good Friday

• April 9 (Friday) – Araw ng Kagitingan

• May 1 (Saturday) – Labor Day

• June 12 (Saturday) – Independence Day

• August 30 (Monday) – National Heroes Day (Last Monday of August)

• November 30 (Tuesday) – Bonifacio Day

• December 25 (Saturday) – Christmas Day

• December 30 (Thursday) – Rizal Day

Special (Non-Working) Days

The following dates have been declared as nationwide special non-working days:

• August 21 (Saturday) – Ninoy Aquino Day

• November 1 (Monday) – All Saints' Day

• December 8 (Wednesday) – Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary

• December 31 (Friday) – Last Day of the Year

Additional Special (Non-Working) Days

To foster family ties and boost domestic tourism, additional non-working days have been declared:

• February 6 (Saturday) – Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

• March 27 – Black Saturday

• November 2 (Tuesday) – All Souls' Day

• December 24 (Friday) – Christmas Eve

Special (Working) Day

• February 25 (Thursday) – EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary (41st Anniversary)

Observance of Islamic Holidays (Eidul Fitr and Eidul Adha)

National holidays for Eidul Fitr (1st day of Shawwal) and Eidul Adha (10th day of Zhul Hijja) will be declared in separate proclamations once the approximate dates are calculated using the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or lunar astronomical calculations. The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) will submit recommendations to the Office of the President.

Guidelines and Implementation

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will issue the official implementing guidelines detailing pay rules and holiday pay computations for private-sector employees.

Source: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2026/09/08/proclamation-no-1427-s-2026/