Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health

Wazzup Pilipinas?! 

Quezon City — Lawmakers, the Quezon City Government, and public health advocates marched together on February 22, 2026, along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City, to mark Philippine Heart Month and call for stronger food policies that protect Filipino families from heart disease and other diet-related diseases.

The event, titled “Step Up for Healthier Hearts: Sama-samang Hakbang para sa Kalusugan,” united legislators, civil society organizations, and community members in support of three pending measures in Congress: the Healthy Food Environment (HFE) bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label (FOPWL) bill, and the Sodium Reformulation bill.

Legislators voice commitment to heart health

Akbayan Representatives Perci Cendaña and Chel Diokno, principal authors of House Bill no. 6834 (HFE Bill), walked in solidarity and pledged their commitment to building a healthy food environment for Filipinos.

Cendaña underscored the importance of clear consumer information and preventive measures, noting, “Dapat may mandatory front-of-package warning labels ang mga laps [pagkain]. Gaya sa love, ang laps, dapat may label. Para alam natin kung keri pa, o major red flag na. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”

(“There should be mandatory front-of-pack warning labels on food products. Just like love, food should also have labeles—so we’ll know if it’s healthy or already a major red flag. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”)

Picking up on Cendaña’s call for transparency and informed choices, Diokno emphasized the need for stronger protections for Filipinos: "Kailangan meron ding pananagutan ang mga gagawa ng bagay ng mga hindi nakakatulong sa ating kabataan at lahat ng mga Pilipino. Kailangan natin itong mga panukalang ito [Healthy Food Environment Bill], at sana ay masuportahan ito."

(“There must be accountability for those who produce food and beverages that do not benefit our youth and all Filipinos. We need these proposed measures [Healthy Food Environment Bill] and we hope they will be supported.”)

As of February, 24 bills enabling a healthy food environment have been filed in Congress, with 28 principal authors and 46 co-authors—reflecting a growing momentum for the measures.

Local government initiatives

In the local government,. Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte of Quezon City highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen heart health and nutrition programs, stressing that Philippine Heart Month is more than just promoting a healthy lifestyle—it is a call for stronger food environments that protect communities. 

“Dito sa Quezon City, meron tayong Healthy Public Food Procurement policy para siguardong ang pondo ng taumbayan ay napupunta sa masustansya at healthy na pagkain. Proud din tayo sa ating Calorie Labeling Ordinance na tumutulong sa mga residente na mas maging maingat sa kanilang kinakain, lalo na ang may mga iniindang sakit.”

(“Here in Quezon City, we have a Healthy Public Food Procurement policy to ensure that public funds are spent on nutritious and healthy food. We are also proud of our Calorie Labeling Ordinance, which helps residents to be more mindful of what they eat, especially those with existing health conditions.”)

Medical and civil society support

Beyond legislators, medical leaders and public health advocates affirmed that heart disease prevention must begin with the food environment. Dr. Rodney Jimenez of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) reminded the public of the urgency: “To this day, heart disease remains the leading health concern of Filipinos; and if we want to break that cycle, we must start with the food environment. Stronger policies on nutrition labeling, food marketing, and reformulation of high-sodium products can ensure that the next generation grows up with healthier choices and healthier hearts.”

Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw, reiterated the need for systemic health protections through swift congressional action. “Mahirap talagang maging healthy dahil ang mga industriya ng pagkain ay hindi sinasabi sa atin kapag hindi nakakabuti sa kalusugan ang ating pagkain. Kaya sana ay masuportahan ng ating mga mambabatas ang Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, at Sodium Reformulation Bill para ang mga Pilipino ay maging malusog at makapagdesisyon nang tama pagdating sa pagkain.”

(“It is difficult for families to make healthy choices when the food industry does not disclose when products are harmful to our health. That is why our lawmakers must support the Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and Sodium Reformulation Bill so that Filipinos can live healthier lives and make the right decisions when it comes to food.”)

The wellness walk also featured interactive activities such as Taichi and Fight Form, interactive exhibits, advocacy booths, and a commitment wall where legislators, advocates, and other participants pledged support for healthier food environments, underscoring the collective effort to advance heart health. 

PHOTOS FROM THE QUEZON CITY GOVERNMENT

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (00)

(From left to right) Akbayan Partylist Representatives Perci Cendaña and Chel Diokno, Quezon City Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte, Department of Health’s Angelica Palmero, and ImagineLaw Executive Director Atty. Sophia San Luis led the “Step Up for Healthier Hearts” march along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City, rallying support for stronger food policies to protect Filipino families from heart disease and other diet-related diseases.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (01)

Quezon City residents, advocates, and community members joined the Step Up for Healthier Hearts wellness walk along Tomas Morato Avenue, which brought together people of all ages in a united call to protect Filipino families from heart disease.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (02)

Akbayan Partylist Representatives Perci Cendaña and Chel Diokno, principal authors of the House Bill no. 6834 (Healthy Food Environment Bill), underscored the need for front-of-pack warning labels to protect and food marketing restrictions to protect the health of Filipino families.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (03)

Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw, underscores the urgency of building a healthy food environment through stronger food policies such as the Healthy Food Environment Bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and the Sodium Reformulation Bill.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (04)

Quezon City Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte proudly shares the city’s health and nutrition initiatives during the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk such as their Healthy Public Food Procurement policy and the Calorie Labeling Ordinance.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (05)

Community moms bring energy and joy to the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk with a spirited zumba session.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (06)

Akbayan Partylist Representative Perci Cendaña, Quezon City Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte, and Rep. Chel Diokno led the signing of the pledge for healthier hearts and a healthy food environment during the Step Up for Healthier Hearts march in Quezon City.

The Hottest Songkran Ever in Thailand! S2O 2026 Drops World-Ending Lineup

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

“ZEDD – KYGO – ALAN WALKER B2B STEVE AOKI”

BANGKOK, THAILAND — Get the fits ready and prepare for a massive sonic reset. Singha presents S2O Songkran Music Festival 2026 is officially back to reclaim the throne as the global GOAT of Thai music festivals. This isn't just a comeback; it’s an evolution. 

The vibe is elevating the Songkran experience to unprecedented heights under the concept "Bigger, Bolder, Wetter," the festival is set to transform Bangkok into THE destination where youth from around the globe fly in to unite. This year's edition is powered by the huge lifestyle brand, "Singha Life," ready to ignite every beat of life with epic vibes throughout the festival, April 11-13, 2025.

S2O's first punch that made the internet is officially broken after the reveal of a full lineup featuring the true “Gods of EDM.” April 11 marks a World Premiere history-maker as Alan Walker B2B Steve Aoki join forces for the exclusive "Lonely Club" project, a global-exclusive set supported by heavyweights Lost Frequencies and I Hate Models. The peak continues on April 12 with the legendary Zedd taking the crowd to a higher state alongside an Asia Premiere show from Don Diablo under the CTRL ALT DEL alias. To close out the splash on April 13, the king of melodies Kygo and the anthem-maker Gryffin will unlock core memories for a cinematic festival finale.

This year's magic isn't just about the music and water—S2O 2026 is delivering major surprises by relocating the party battlefield to "S2O LAND," a new landmark on Ratchadaphisek Road near MRT Thailand Cultural Centre. This new map offers massive space for the signature 360-degree water blast system and a stage production so huge it’ll leave fans shook and transforming the area into a legendary-scale Songkran Party Hub loaded with stacked lineups, non-stop activities, and endless fun.

Beyond that,  this year S2O has joined forces with premium partners to create extraordinary experiences by curated with iconic partners like Dewar’s Club for chic hangout vibes and Crocs, the Gen Z favorite footwear brand that'll level up your Songkran fashion game—stylish, comfy, and water-ready, and backed by Amazing Thailand, this event confirms its status as the world's #1 Songkran destination.

Get ready and start warming up those clicking fingers to sprint toward Eventpop before the “SOLD OUT” sign hits. The movement happens at S2O LAND Ratchada this April 11-13. For those looking to flex with the ultimate VP luxury experience, VVIP packages are available via LINE Official @S2OVVIP, with full details at www.s2ofestival.com.

Manila and Cebu Take the World Stage: The Philippines Joins the Michelin Elite

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Filipino cuisine has long been a "best-kept secret" in the global culinary world—a vibrant tapestry of 7,641 islands where sweet, sour, and salty notes collide in a way that is both adventurous and deeply comforting.

In late 2025, this gastronomic identity reached a historic turning point with the inaugural arrival of the Michelin Guide Philippines 2026. This wasn't just a win for fine dining; it was a global validation of the "Linamnam" (umami/deliciousness) that defines the Filipino soul.

The Flavors That Defined the Debut

The Michelin inspectors recognized 108 establishments across Manila and Cebu, proving that Filipino food is as diverse as the archipelago itself.

The Modern Vanguard: Helm, led by Chef Josh Boutwood, made history as the country's first and only Two-Star restaurant. It blends British-Filipino heritage with Spanish techniques, showing that local ingredients can headline world-class tasting menus.

The Guardians of Heritage: One-star recipients like Toyo Eatery and Hapag have become global beacons by reimagining everyday "soul food"—turning fermented flavors (bagoong) and heirloom rice into elevated art.

Sustainable Gastronomy: Gallery by Chele earned a Green Star, spotlighting the Philippines' shift toward mindful, farm-to-table dining that respects biodiversity and local artisans.

Why Filipino Cuisine Deserves the Spotlight

The global recognition is overdue because Filipino food is more than just a menu; it is a narrative of resilience and community.

1. The Power of Sour

While many Southeast Asian cuisines lean heavily on spice, Filipino food is anchored by Asim (sourness). From the tangy batuan fruit in Kansi to the fermented vinegar in Adobo, this "brightness" is a sophisticated palate cleanser that defines the local identity.

2. The Culture of "Salo-Salo" (Sharing)

The Michelin Guide recognized several Bib Gourmand spots, like the roadside Morning Sun Eatery, for their excellence at a great value. This reflects the heart of the culture: the Kamayan or Boodle Fight, where food is laid out on banana leaves and eaten with hands, emphasizing equality and connection.

3. A Fusion Centuries in the Making

Filipino gastronomy is a "remix" of history. It blends:

Indigenous roots: Using coconut milk and tropical fruits.

Spanish influence: Techniques like slow-stewing (Caldereta) and roasting (Lechon).

Chinese trade: The introduction of noodles (Pancit) and soy-based umami.

The "Michelin Effect"

The arrival of the guide has done more than award stars; it has ignited a "reverse brain drain." Young chefs are returning home to open restaurants, confident that their grandmother’s recipes—refined with modern technique—can compete on the world stage. As Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco noted, the guide is a mirror showing the world what Filipinos have known all along: Every plate tells a story of community and care.