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Tech solution for forestry road safety

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Source: Worksafe New Zealand

Forestry roads nationwide are set to become safer, thanks to a new agreement between WorkSafe New Zealand and one of the country’s largest forest management companies.

Forest360 Limited has agreed to fund a range of actions in response to a death on one of its sites. 59-year-old Greg Stevens was killed when his logging truck and trailer rolled while negotiating a tight bend on a Coromandel forestry road in May 2023.

WorkSafe’s investigation found the design, maintenance, and risk assessment of the road by Forest360 was inadequate.

The company’s funded response forms a binding commitment, known as an enforceable undertaking (EU), which WorkSafe has accepted. It includes:

  • Funding research to develop a method to assess forestry road safety.
  • Sponsoring software development to help forest owners and operators identify unsafe road conditions.
  • Promoting the software and sharing insights with the forestry sector, including at conferences and through the Forest Industry Safety Council.
  • Forest360 will donate to education programmes through Discover Forestry, and to Wāhine in Forestry.
  • Amends paid to Greg Stevens’ widow.

“Many forestry roads in New Zealand are old and potentially unsafe, having been built decades ago to outdated engineering standards,” says WorkSafe’s Head of Regulatory Services, Tracey Conlon.

“The software development has the potential to transform how forestry roads are assessed for safety. By making cutting-edge technology accessible across the industry, Forest360’s initiatives could significantly reduce risk and save lives.”

The scene of the dramatic crash on Thames Coast Road in May 2023.

Forestry is a priority for WorkSafe as it had the highest fatality rate of any sector in 2024. Our role is to influence businesses to meet their responsibilities to keep people healthy and safe.

This is the first time WorkSafe has accepted such a commitment from the forestry sector. EUs are a way for WorkSafe to hold businesses accountable for health and safety breaches. We monitor progress on the agreed commitments and can seek a court order if they are not upheld.

Two other businesses remain before the court in relation to the death of Gregory Albert Stevens.

Read the Forest360 decision document

Find out more about enforceable undertakings

Statement from Forest360’s managing director Dan Gaddum

Forest360 deeply regrets the tragic loss of a logging truck driver employed by one of our subcontractors, who was fatally injured while operating on a forestry road under our control. Our thoughts remain with his family, colleagues, and community. We take our responsibilities for contractor safety management extremely seriously, and this incident has strengthened our resolve to lead improvement across the industry. Sometimes it’s less about dwelling on what went wrong, and more about doing something meaningful to stop it happening again.

Through this enforceable undertaking, Forest360 is investing in technologies such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), machine learning, and drone-based road assessments to better identify and manage road risks. Our goal is to deliver safer outcomes for everyone working in and around our forests, and to share what we learn to lift safety performance across the wider sector.

Media contact details

For more information you can contact our Media Team using our media request form. Alternatively:

Email: media@worksafe.govt.nz

MIL OSI

ASB – Kashin money boxes return to celebrate 150 years of ASB setting up tamariki for a more resilient future

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Source: ASB

ASB is bringing back New Zealand’s most beloved elephant, launching a limited-edition Kashin money box to celebrate 150 years of helping Kiwi kids with their finances.

ASB Chief Executive Vittoria Shortt says the bank has a long history of commitment to financial education and wellbeing. Tools like Kashin, alongside ASB’s digital banking features and educational programmes help start crucial conversations with children about finances.  

“We know the importance of good money habits, and Kashin has encouraged generations of Kiwi kids to learn these skills. The more that whānau can have these conversations and help kids understand concepts like budgeting and saving, the more confident they’ll be in making good financial decisions that will set them up for life.

“It’s not just about young people. We’re investing heavily in financial wellbeing tools for customers of all ages with ASB MoneySpace, offering people practical ways to improve their financial insights and planning. We’ve seen first-hand the impact this can have on outcomes.”

This commitment to comprehensive financial support across all of life’s stages isn’t new to ASB, it’s built on over a century of experience. The Kids Penny Bank Account was launched in 1876, school banking began in 1926, the Kashin money box was created in 1964, and the GetWise education in schools programme was launched in 2010.

“Our GetWise programme has reached more than 1.3 million children across 1,800 schools. In 2023 we expanded this with the introduction of our Tikitiki o Pūtea education programme grounded in Kaupapa Māori and delivered exclusively in te reo Māori for kura because we’re committed to giving every young person the financial tools to succeed.

“We believe financial confidence should start from a young age and we’re pleased to see financial literacy becoming part of the school curriculum. GetWise is fully booked through 2025 and demand from schools wanting to book the programme has increased by 60% since the Government’s announcement.”

Kashin brings years of wisdom about the importance of starting small, thinking long-term, and making smart choices with money. Not bad for an elephant who fits on a bedroom shelf.

The limited edition money box is available now to customers aged up to 17 opening an ASB Headstart account, while stocks last.

About GetWise

GetWise lessons are designed to complement the New Zealand school curriculum and are created in collaboration with experts in primary education. Independent, trained facilitators deliver the interactive workshops to students in years three to eight, integrating cutting edge augmented reality content, and a free online learning platform for year seven and eight students.

Teachers are also given access to resource packs to help them provide ongoing financial literacy lessons in the classroom, at their own pace.

Primary and intermediate schools can sign up to the ASB GetWise financial literacy programme by visiting getwise.co.nz, calling 0508 GetWise

For more information please visit asb.co.nz/GetWise.

Timeline

1876 – ASB launches kids Penny Bank Account  

1926 – ASB brings banking to the classroom with the introduction of school banking  

1964 – Our advertising symbol becomes an elephant called Kashin  

1972 – The ‘real’ Kashin arrives at Auckland Zoo  

2010 – Students GetWise with the launch of ASB’s financial literacy programme  

2015 – Kashin goes digital with the Clever Kash money box  

2025 – ASB celebrates 150 years of helping kids with money with a new Kashin money box.

MIL OSI

Employment – Allied health workers ballot to strike after mediation fails to deliver better deal – PSA

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Source: PSA

More than 11,500 Allied Health workers will today begin voting to work to rule and for a four-hour strike on 28 November after mediation with Health NZ yesterday failed to make progress on a fair pay offer and safe staffing levels.
The work to rule in the week before and after the planned strike means they would not do unpaid overtime and would take their lunch and tea breaks.
“We had hoped that mediation would result in a better offer for allied, technical and scientific and public health workers in hospitals all over New Zealand but sadly insufficient progress was made,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“Health workers are reluctant to take more strike action, but Health NZ Te Whatu Ora has once again failed to recognise the immense pressure health workers are under and the struggle they face with the cost of living.”
Allied Health workers cover over 60 professions that help keep the public health service functioning including social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, scientists, anaesthetic technicians, Māori health specialists, clinical support workers and health assistants
“These are critical health workers who work long hours and often have to do unpaid overtime to ensure New Zealanders get the health care they need.
“They have been bargaining since June and went on strike on October 23 and attended mediation yesterday hoping it would bring Health NZ back to the table with an improved offer. While Health NZ did offer to shorten the term to expire on 31 October 2027 rather than the original expiry of 31 December 2027 the pay increases would be delayed until the date of settlement.
Today’s mediation shows workers’ concerns are again falling on deaf ears.
“The pay offer on the table still does not keep pace with inflation and means workers are effectively taking a pay cut. Meanwhile, there are simply not enough health workers to provide the level of care New Zealanders need,” said Fitzsimons.
“If Health NZ continues to undervalue these workers, we’ll keep losing them to Australia where the health system respects what they do.
“We urge Health NZ to come back to bargaining with an offer that reflects the value of these workers and addresses the staffing crisis that is compromising patient care across the country.”

MIL OSI

‘Gold, Glory & Galaxy’ Lucky Draw to Surprise Galaxy Macau Guests with Glittering Array of Prizes this November

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Source: Media Outreach

From November 4-30, guests can scoop exclusive giveaways to celebrate Galaxy Macau’s hosting of the table tennis events for the 15th National Games of China.

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ Integrated Resort (hereinafter “Galaxy Macau”) today announced its ‘Gold, Glory and Galaxy’ lucky draw, through which guests can win a sparkling selection of unique prizes when they visit during the month of November 2025. This special promotion is part of Galaxy Macau’s celebrations for China’s 15th National Games, for which Galaxy Arena, the resort’s state-of-the-art performance venue and Macau’s largest indoor arena, will play host to the thrilling table tennis events.

Just as the athletes will be going for gold at Galaxy Arena, visitors to Galaxy Macau can win a glittering array of prizes by participating in the ‘Gold, Glory and Galaxy’ lucky draw. All Galaxy Macau shuttle bus passengers will be eligible for enrolment in the lucky draw, by scanning the designated QR code onboard, or printed on a gold ticket distributed at the Border Gate (near Gongbei), the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, or the Hengqin Port Checkpoints. By which they will either win instant prizes or advance to the in-resort “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw where they will be able to win pure gold prizes or other fabulous rewards with the “Key to Gold” at Galaxy Macau’s Diamond Lobby.

Guests boarding Galaxy Macau™ shuttle bus at Border Gate (near Gongbei), the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, or the Hengqin Border Checkpoints will get a ticket to win fascinating prizes in “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw. Other Galaxy Macau shuttle bus guests can also enrol by scanning the same QR code onboard.

Galaxy Macau guests will also get the chance to enter the “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw by presenting a single purchase receipt of MOP300 or more at the resort, a room card and card holder from any of the resort’s hotels (including Broadway Macau™), tickets to Galaxy Arena table tennis competitions, or tickets to same-day shows at Galaxy Arena, Broadway Theatre, or G.Box.

Guest may win pure gold items among other captivating prizes in “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw, including pure gold notes and coins, table tennis gift sets, gold bar themed portable chargers – going for gold with table tennis athletes competing in Galaxy Arena.

Prizes for the lucky draw include dining vouchers and sumptuous refreshments, table tennis gift sets, gold bar themed portable charger and fortune gifts, Wavey the Peacock from Galaxy Kidz limited edition Macau Pass card and MOP100 retail vouchers Those lucky enough will also have a chance to take home limited-edition pure gold prizes — a meaningful keepsake to celebrate the spectacular table tennis heat.

Guests seeing the eye-catching lucky draw counter at Galaxy Macau’s Diamond Lobby will surely be attracted to enter “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw by spending or watching shows at Galaxy Macau, and witnessing the table tennis heat at the Galaxy Arena.

As well as celebrating Galaxy Macau’s hosting of the 15th National Games’ table tennis matches, the ‘Gold, Glory and Galaxy’ lucky draw also pays tribute to Galaxy Entertainment Group’s (GEG) long-term support of table tennis in Macau. Since hosting the inaugural World Table Tennis (WTT) event in 2020, GEG has continually contributed to the sport’s growth, with this year marking its third consecutive year as co-organiser of the event. Galaxy Macau also became the city’s first and only luxury resort to co-host the ITTF Men’s and Women’s World Cup Macao, underscoring its commitment to integrating tourism and sport, and promoting athletic development.

The “Key to Gold” opens the door to a wide array of amazing golden and gold-themed prizes in the “Gold, Glory and Galaxy” lucky draw, spreading joyous vibes amidst the 15th National Games being held in the Greater Bay Area.

Table tennis fans can also enjoy a one-of-a-kind showcase of the sport’s heritage at “The Artistry of Table Tennis—Collectables and Art Exhibition” from now until January 4, 2026. Located in Galaxy Macau’s East Square, this special exhibition takes visitors on a fascinating curated journey of rare collectables and artistic installations that pay tribute to the history and cultural significance of table tennis. Admission is free.

For more information and news about Galaxy Macau, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Media release – Public consultation opens on design of the next census

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MIL OSI

Inside “Beautiful Nightmare”: When BXG Turned Halloween into a Luxury Fantasy with VIP EXTRA

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Source: Media Outreach

Where beauty met the forbidden, and the night remembered every name.

  • The Night That Redefined Halloween

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – Halloween in Asia had never looked this extraordinary. On October 30, 2025, BXG (Beauty Express Group), the creative powerhouse behind leading beauty brands including Telosin, A80 Paris, The Mineral Boutique, Apeiro, and 24 Auro, unveiled “Beautiful Nightmare”, an electrifying Halloween experience brought to life through its flagship luxury platform, VIP EXTRA.

It wasn’t just a celebration; it was the most extreme Halloween event in Asia, where beauty met desire and every moment shimmered with fearless creativity.

More than 500 very lucky guests from Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Thailand, Indonesia and Europe gathered in Macau to witness a night of surreal glamour and indulgence. Among them were over 100 celebrities, influencers, and tastemakers, all part of a spectacle that redefined what luxury nightlife could be.

The Prelude: Beauty Before the Darkness

The evening began inside a lavish W Hotel Macau suite, transformed into a high-glamour pre-party sanctuary.DJ Ornusa Cadness delivered a captivating set for over 100 top KOLs and influencers gathered for a night of anticipation and transformation.

Here, VIP EXTRA guests indulged in exclusive glow-up experiences, with A80 Paris offering bespoke hair styling, and Telosin, Apeiro, and The Mineral Boutique (TMB) delivering radiant skincare and beauty rituals. Each guest received personalized beauty gifts, turning preparation into performance, a moment of transformation before stepping into the night’s seductive chaos.

The Descent: A Dream in the Dark

As the clock struck nine, the energy shifted. Guests descended to MOP, Macau’s hottest club, reborn as a darkly decadent world where high fashion collided with the surreal.

The bassline pulsed through mirrored walls; crystal glasses clinked as sequined silhouettes shimmered beneath crimson light. Champagne flowed like water, while a curated selection of gourmet dishes from renowned chefs kept guests indulged throughout the night. The venue itself became an immersive fantasy — adorned with haunting Halloween décor, glowing LED installations, and bursts of pyrotechnics that lit the room in flashes of gold and scarlet.

Icons from across Asia, including Gaile Lok, Alex Lam, Angie Ng, Utah Lee, Terra Yeung, Tom Price, Vivian Siu, Inky Leong, and many more, filled the space with untamed energy and couture expression.

An international lineup of music DJ providers — LordBS, Ruby, Samir, and Lilium — powered the night with electrifying beats that kept the crowd dancing until dawn. Their soundscapes transformed MOP into a world of rhythm, mystery, and movement.

It was a world where beauty turned wild, a living dream curated through BXG’s unmatched creative direction.

Behind the Magic

Curated and produced by BXG, “Beautiful Nightmare” embodied the group’s vision of merging beauty innovation, cultural storytelling, and immersive brand experience. Through VIP EXTRA, BXG continues to set the benchmark for luxury engagement, where members are not just guests but protagonists in an evolving narrative of style.

“It was more than a party. It was an experience that blended creativity, style, and beauty in the most unexpected way,” said Kimmy Lee, Chief Commercial Officer at BXG. “From the W Hotel suite to the MOP dance floor, every moment embodied the VIP EXTRA spirit, bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.”

For BXG, “Beautiful Nightmare” was more than spectacle. It was the embodiment of its belief that beauty becomes unforgettable when it dares to provoke.

The Afterglow

With over 150,000 active members across China, Hong Kong, Macau, and beyond, VIP EXTRA, powered by BXG, continues to set new benchmarks for luxury engagement in Asia.

“Beautiful Nightmare” became more than an event; it became a story, a fearless celebration of artistry, glamour, and imagination that left Macau glowing long after the last song ended.

Every VVIP left calling it “the best Halloween party ever”, a night that transformed the meaning of beauty and boldness in the region. Some nights don’t end; they transform

www.vipextra.com
https://www.instagram.com/vipextra_club/?hl=en

www.bexgrp.com
https://www.instagram.com/beautyexpressgroup/?hl=en

Hashtag: #BXG #VIPEXTRA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Children Born Alive After Attempted Abortions – OIA

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Source: Family First

MEDIA RELEASE – 4 November 2025

Family First says that according to official government data, every month on average an unborn child is surviving an attempted abortion but is not being given life-sustaining treatment.

These shocking numbers may be well underestimated because some districts couldn’t or wouldn’t provide the data.

According to Official Information Act requests to Health New Zealand, it reveals that since the beginning of 2020, approximately 80 attempted abortions have resulted in a child being born alive but not given life-sustaining care. Gestation periods range from 20 – 30 weeks.

Disturbingly, Te Tai Tokerau district said that life-sustaining care is considered only for “wanted babies at 22 weeks + 5 days”. At Waikato, there is “parental discretion to opt in or opt out of resuscitation”. Canterbury have previously advised that the “baby is wrapped in a blanket and held until it passes”.

Some larger districts including Waitemata, Counties Manukau, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Capital Coast & Hutt Valley refused to provide the data.

“We are not surprised by this data – but it is still truly shocking. Whether the unborn child is 15, 20, 30 or 40 weeks in the womb, it will naturally be fighting for its life. That is our human instinct. We should be protecting the lives of innocent babies who survive attempted abortions. We should be making abundantly clear that this is an obligation on medical professionals,” says Bob McCoskrie, CEO of Family First NZ.

This shocking data comes at the same time as recent studies reveal that active treatment and survival rates for babies born at 22 weeks and 23 weeks are increasing. Between 2014 and 2023, survival among 22-weekers who received active treatment rose from 25.7% to 41%. Rates of survival rose from 7.4% to 32% for babies born at 22 weeks who did not receive active treatment.

A 2025 study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has revealed that both active medical treatment and the survival rate of babies born as early as 22 weeks are increasing.

In 2020, an amendment to the Abortion Legislation Bill (requiring the care of a child born after an attempted abortion) was only supported by 37 MPs (less than a third). The amendment clarified that a qualified health practitioner who performed an abortion that results in the birth of a child after an attempted abortion has a duty to provide the child with appropriate medical care and treatment, no different than the duty owed to provide medical care and treatment to any other child born.

“The vote against such a provision was actually just confirmation of how extreme and radical Jacinda Ardern’s abortion law was – and the agenda of its supporters.”

At the time of the debate in Parliament, then-Minister of Health & Labour MP Andrew Little saidI would like to see the science about a child being born after an abortion.”

“Here is the evidence. This is not about politics – this is about having a heart,” says Mr McCoskrie.

Based on this disturbing evidence, Family First is calling on the Government to immediately introduce and pass legislation which requires life-sustaining care of any child born alive after an attempted abortion.

Family First is also questioning why this data is being withheld from some districts, and is calling on the Ministry of Health to keep more accurate and transparent information about these occurrences.

MIL OSI

AIA Singapore unveils “Road to HYROX” video series, reinforcing its leadership in championing accessible and inclusive wellness

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 Leading health insurance provider AIA Singapore today announced the launch of “Road to HYROX”, an inspiring multi-episode video series. This compelling video series showcases the transformative power of fitness and community, further solidifying AIA Singapore’s “Healthier, Longer, Better Lives” brand promise and its commitment to empowering individuals to “Rethink Healthy” through accessible and inclusive initiatives.

Beyond the sweat and grit of training, the “Road to HYROX” video series reveals the profound human stories of transformation. Witness the unbreakable bonds of camaraderie, the power of shared goals and the inspiring resilience that emerges when everyday people push past their perceived limits. The video series authentically captures the highs and lows of preparing for a physically demanding fitness competition like HYROX, highlighting how people can push their limits and redefine what “healthy” truly means for themselves. By showcasing the journey of an average person or group training for HYROX, the video series demonstrates that active living is achievable for everyone.

“Road to HYROX” video series is a powerful embodiment of our purpose-driven approach to health and wellness,” said Irma Hadikusuma, Chief Marketing and Healthcare Officer, AIA Singapore.” Following the phenomenal success of AIA HYROX Open Asian Championships 2025 and inaugural AIA Ultimate FitnessFest, as well as AIA HYROX Singapore in November, this video series provides a relatable, behind- the-scenes look at what it takes to achieve personal fitness goals. For us at AIA Singapore, it’s so much more than just physical transformations. It’s about fostering mental fortitude, building supportive communities and inspiring everyone to embrace active living in their own unique ways. We believe this video series will resonate deeply, showcasing the tangible and long-lasting benefits of a holistic approach to health. It aims to inspire others by demonstrating that fitness is a reachable goal for everyone, regardless of their starting point.”

Engaging audiences through authentic and influential voices
The video series will feature a line-up of AIA employees and AIA consultants, as well as Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) who bring their own perspectives on fitness and life:

  • Benjamin Byrne (@the.smiling.afro) – Also known as ‘The Smiling Afro’, is a prominent Singaporean social media content creator celebrated for his vibrant personality and engaging videos. He has made a significant impact in the digital content scene. He started taking his health more seriously in 2023, and is taking part in HYROX for the first time.
  • Tyen Rasif (@tyenrasif) – A popular fitness trainer, singer-songwriter, and content creator known for her fitness and wellness content.
  • Jamie Pang (@jamiepang) – A fitness creator and entrepreneur who runs a local fitness apparel brand, Fitmonkie.
  • Johnny Tieu (@quacktieu) – A bali-based fitness consultant, pro athlete and performance coach, who has podiumed for many HYROX races throughout Asia. He is known for his ability to help level up those around him and focused with the ultimate goal of elevating the Asian ethnicity on to the world stage of athletics.
  • Ten AIA employees and AIA consultants were carefully selected among many eager contenders through an internal competition to earn their place in the content series. Handpicked by the four KOLs, the participants represent a dynamic mix of personalities and fitness levels, including those taking on HYROX for the very first time.

United by a shared passion for wellness, these KOLs, alongside AIA employees and AIA consultants will provide not just expertise but genuine inspiration. Their candid perspectives and stories will grant viewers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes window into the grit, camaraderie and personal growth of their HYROX journey. This collaborative spirit elevates the video series expanding its influence and reach, and truly bringing to life the pursuit of Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

Embodying the series tagline, ‘From race day to every day’, the narrative goes far beyond the build-up to the upcoming AIA HYROX Singapore 2025; it’s about transforming a single challenge into an ongoing commitment and a lifelong quest for active living. HYROX is more than a single competition – it sparks sustainable habits, nurtures resilience and shapes the mindset essential for embracing wellness, not just on race day, but throughout one’s life

Empowering Healthier, Longer, Better Lives with record-breaking events and pioneering initiatives
AIA Singapore’s robust line-up of HYROX-related initiatives this year underscores its leadership in promoting active lifestyles. As the Official Title Partner for the AIA HYROX Open Asian Championships 2025, which drew close to 25,000 participants and spectators to the Singapore National Stadium on June 28-29. This landmark event not only broke records for athlete participation but also introduced inclusive categories like adaptive and corporate relay, further exemplifying AIA Singapore’s dedication to making fitness accessible to all. A first in the world for HYROX championships, AIA Singapore supported both participants and spectators with complimentary personal accident coverage upon ticket purchase, valid through the month of June 2025.

Building on this momentum, AIA Singapore also launched the first-of-its-kind AIA Ultimate FitnessFest in August, with support from HYROX. This pioneering hybrid fitness event, featuring University and Open Editions, was designed to cater to participants across all fitness levels, further reinforcing AIA’s commitment to building a holistic ecosystem that inspires individuals to “Rethink Healthy” through diverse experiences.

The “Road to HYROX” video series serves as a powerful narrative complement to these large-scale events, offering a deeper, more personal connection to the fitness journey. Ultimately, these initiatives ladder up to the wider AIA One Billion movement, which aims to empower a billion people to live Healthier, Longer, Better lives by 2030.

The video series will be released from November to December 2025. AIA Singapore’s social channels will be sharing updates and exclusive sneak peeks into this purposeful and empowering content series. The first video ‘It starts Here’ sets the stage by introducing the four KOLs who will lead the teams on their HYROX journey and can be viewed here.

Hashtag: #AIA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

The Inaugural MICHELIN Guide Manila And Environs & Cebu 2026 Reveals 1 Two Stars, 8 One Star & 25 Bib Gourmands

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Source: Media Outreach

  • The first-ever edition for the Philippines spans Manila, surrounding regions, and Cebu features 108 restaurants in total: 1 Two Stars, 8 One Star, 25 Bib Gourmand, and 74 MICHELIN Selected

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – Michelin proudly unveiled the first-ever restaurant selection for the Philippines with the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026, celebrated on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Manila Marriott Hotel, within the prestigious Newport World Resorts.

The 2026 edition marks a historic milestone, spotlighting the Philippines’ vibrant gastronomic identity and elevating its place on the global culinary map. The selection includes a total of 108 establishments, with Manila and Environs represented by 90 restaurants, and Cebu by 18, reflecting both metropolitan sophistication and regional soul.

“We are honored to present the first edition of the MICHELIN Guide in the Philippines,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “This selection pays tribute to a new generation of Filipino chefs, and international chefs who have embraced the Philippines, drawing inspiration from local heritage, bold flavors, and heartfelt hospitality. Whether it’s fine dining or street-side eateries, our inspectors were truly impressed by the culinary authenticity and creativity found across the country.”

In this inaugural selection, 9 restaurants are awarded MICHELIN Stars:

1 restaurant achieves the rare distinction of Two MICHELIN Stars with its debut, recognizing its excellent cooking that’s worth a detour!

Helm (Manila): A modern restaurant fusing the chef’s British-Filipino heritage with Spanish techniques, known for creative precision.

8 restaurants receive One MICHELIN:

  • Asador Alfonso – Spanish-inspired dishes with rustic elegance.
  • Celera – Contemporary Asian fusion with global flair.
  • Gallery by Chele – Celebrated for its sustainability ethos.
  • Hapag – Elevating local ingredients with a refined hand.
  • Inatô – Intimate counter dining with sculptural detail.
  • Kasa Palma – Wood-fired global flavors with French technique.
  • Linamnam – 10-seat fine dining inside a former childhood bedroom.
  • Toyo Eatery – Modern Filipino rooted in everyday soul.

These restaurants represent a variety of culinary styles, from refined interpretations of traditional Filipino fare to boundary-pushing fusion menus — all guided by precision, consistency, and a deep respect for ingredients.

The Green Star Community: Showcasing Dedication to Mindful Gastronomy

The MICHELIN Green Star editorially highlights restaurants that, among the MICHELIN Guide selection, have inspired and impressed Inspectors with their committed vision for the future of gastronomy.

This year, Gallery By Chele has newly captured the Inspectors’ attention for their inspiring visions.

Bib Gourmand: Quality at Great Value

The Bib Gourmand selection features 25 restaurants19 in Manila and Environs and 6 in Cebu — applauded for offering good food at moderate prices.

Highlights Include:

  • Bolero – Spanish-Mediterranean fare built for sharing.
  • Cabel – Pan-Philippine dishes with a southern tilt.
  • Lampara – French-Filipino plates in a relaxed setting.
  • COCHI – Located on a corner of BGC, this restaurant brings typical Filipino flavours into a modern setting.
  • Pilya’s Kitchen – Signature ribbon noodles at a food market counter.
  • The Underbelly – Bold Japanese-inspired ramen by a young chef.

In Cebu

  • The Pig & Palm – Pork-led small plates in a stylish space.
  • Esmen – 60-year-old eatery known for traditional linarang.
  • Abaseria Deli & Café – From export office to comfort food hotspot.

MICHELIN Guide Special Awards

Three special awards honor individuals behind the scenes:

  • Young Chef Award: Chef Don Patrick Baldosano (Linamnam), for reinventing Filipino cuisine with techniques like fermentation and aging.
  • Service Award: Mrs. Erin Recto (Hapag), who balances her role as Sommelier and Operations Director with heartfelt hospitality.
  • Exceptional Cocktail Award: Mr. Benjamin Leal (Uma Nota), recognized for culturally rich, inventive drinks blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Southeast Asian inspirations.


MICHELIN Selected Restaurants

Beyond the MICHELIN Star and Bib, 74 establishments (62 in Manila & Environs, 12 in Cebu) are named MICHELIN Selected for quality, consistency, and character — showcasing everything from local flavors to global influences.

“The enthusiasm and dedication we’ve witnessed from chefs and restaurateurs here is truly inspiring,” added Mr. Poullennec. “We look forward to continuing our exploration and sharing the Philippines’ culinary stories with the world.”

CLICK HERE to download images and content from the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Ceremony Manila and Environs & Cebu.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.