Going the extra mile
“I don’t shoot like digital photographers.” — Bengy Toda, who frowns on taking as many photos as your memory card will allow and selecting the “best” after the shoot.
Permission to fly
Lilybeth Tan-Ng flies planes. Her father, Lucio Tan, one of the richest people in the Philippines, owns an entire airline.
What you need to know about liver cancer
The liver is a vital organ as it plays a key role in the body’s digestive system. It produces proteins and stores sugar, vitamins, and minerals. It also breaks down nutrients from food to produce energy.
Furthermore, the liver has the significant role of producing bile, a fluid which helps break down fat from food as well as absorbs vitamins. More importantly, it removes toxins in blood by getting rid of the harmful chemicals produced by the body.
As big as its function, however, a big danger looms when the liver itself suffers from the growth and spread of unhealthy cells within, causing liver cancer which is considered as one of the top killer cancers in the Philippines.
Medical authorities attribute this expansive presence of liver cancer in the country to several complications and habits: hepatitis B/hepatitis C infection, heavy alcohol consumption, and prolonged heavy intake of aflatoxin and other chemical carcinogens.
The most common risk factor responsible for most cases of liver cancer in the Philippines is chronic hepatitis B, a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). After the virus initiates acute Hepatitis B, chronic Hepatitis B likely occurs if the HBV remains for more than 6 months in the blood.
According to the Hepatological Society of the Philippines (HSP), hepatitis B is a major public health burden in the Philippines, with 1 out of 7 adult Filipinos having the complication. Adults 20 to 49 years of age, who make up a large part of the work force, are more likely to get the infection.
Hepatitis B can be acquired by direct contact with infected blood and body fluid, such as in contaminated needles and unprotected sex with an infected partner. But the more common cause is from childbirth, where an infected mother transmits the virus to her newborn. This is why all infants are recommended to get a hepatitis B vaccination.
Heavy alcohol intake, meanwhile, increases the risk of liver cancer, since alcohol is directly toxic to liver cells. A bulk amount of alcohol damages the liver through inflammation and scarring, more known as cirrhosis.
Aflatoxin is another risk factor for liver cancer among Filipinos. This toxic chemical is produced by certain species of molds that grow in contaminated food products such as corn, peanuts, and rice. Prevailing high temperature and relative humidity, coupled with improper handling of food, contribute to the production of aflatoxin above the acceptable level.
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2018, liver cancer is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. In the Philippines, however, liver cancer is more widespread.
According to HSP, liver cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death. Moreover, the Philippine Cancer Society’s (PCS) most recent estimates back in 2015 indicate that liver cancer ranked 2nd among males and 6th among females.
The data from the PCS also noted that incidence rates in liver cancer start to rise at 35 years old among males, and 50 among females. In 2012, the estimated national incidents were 11.8 per 100,000 in both sexes, 17.1 among males, and 6.5 among females. Moreover, 2 out of 100 men and 1 out of 100 women “would have had a likelihood of getting liver cancer before age 75.”
In terms of mortality rates, estimated national standardized rates were 11.8 per 100,000 in both sexes, 17.4 among males, and 6.3 among females. It was revealed as well that 2 out of 100 men, and 1 out of 100 women would have died from liver cancer before reaching 75 years old.
The 5-year relative survival rate amounts to 8.5% in Metro Manila.
Liver cancer often shows up with no symptoms in its early stages. Upon diagnosis, it has generally reached an advanced stage. Worse, there is still no efficient early detection method for the cancer. Because of this, liver cancer has been regarded as a “silent epidemic”, given its prevalence in the country.
Warning signs may be noticed as liver cancer develops: abdominal pain, weight loss, weakness, and loss of appetite, and presence of HBV or cirrhosis.
The Department of Health suggests that the surgery can be curative for the patient with small liver cancer. However, for the majority of the cases, especially those diagnosed at an incurable stage, “judicious and cost-effective palliative care can provide an acceptable quality of life.”
Essential nutritional support helps in promoting as well as restoring the health of the liver. Essentiale Forte P® is a trusted brand which aids in the management of damaged liver due to chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver, and intoxication by hepatoxic substances. It is the No.1 Doctor-Recommended Liver Remedy brand in the Philippines and in the world.
Planning a perfect wedding
Engaged Cocolife ambassador shares tips on making a dream-come-true wedding
Weddings mark the beginning of a whole new chapter for couples. The perfect dream-come-true wedding is worth planning, as it is a once-in-a-lifetime event that celebrates the start of their journey together.
Dream weddings are achievable, especially when done right. More than just preparing for a memorable celebration, proper wedding planning is an investment in a couple’s dreams and shared life.
Kiefer Ravena — Filipino professional basketball player of Yokohama B-Corsairs in Japan’s B.League, former Gilas Pilipinas team captain, and Cocolife brand ambassador — recently got engaged to fiancée Diana Mackey and shares his tips for an efficient wedding planning.
Communicating effectively
First and foremost, effective communication is the cornerstone of successful wedding planning. For couples preparing for their big day, being on the same page is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable process. This means openly discussing and aligning each other’s visions, priorities, and expectations for the wedding.
Clear and honest dialogue helps avoid misunderstandings and prevents unnecessary stress. Transparency, active listening, and mutual respect create a strong foundation — not just for planning the event, but for the marriage itself. When differing opinions arise, approach them with understanding and a willingness to compromise. Finding the middle ground that satisfies both partners’ wishes strengthens teamwork and builds a shared sense of ownership over the celebration.
As with any lasting relationship, open and honest communication is not just helpful — it’s essential. It transforms wedding planning from a daunting task into a meaningful journey you navigate together.
Setting goals
Start with clear goals and a shared purpose in mind. Before diving into the details, couples should have an open conversation about their ideal wedding and identify what truly matters most to them. Defining the 4 W’s — what, why, where, and when — helps establish direction and clarity from the start.
Visualizing the celebration through inspiration boards, mood boards, or layout sketches can bring ideas to life and ensure both partners are aligned. Remember, investing in a wedding begins with a meaningful purpose. When guided by clear priorities, every decision becomes intentional — making the experience not only more personal but also financially worthwhile.
Smart financial planning
When planning a wedding, couples also need to consider their finances carefully. Discussing the wedding plan, setting a realistic budget, and defining financial goals are some of the essential steps in financial planning for the wedding. To manage finances efficiently, creating a budget is a must. It helps couples track their finances and make informed decisions throughout the process. Smart and realistic financial choices are a key to a successful wedding celebration.
The role of wedding coordinators
Every wedding is unique, and working with wedding coordinators who understand what a couple wants on their special day can make the planning process much more convenient. A wedding coordinator’s job is to manage the entire process — from planning to the wedding program and reception itself. Hiring a wedding coordinator reduces stress, saves time, and ensures that couples can enjoy their big day freely.
These tips can turn the wedding planning journey into a fun and enjoyable experience. Still, a wedding can become even more meaningful with a lasting gift couples can give themselves — something that goes beyond the celebration.
This is why Kiefer highly recommends Cocolife’s Flexi Investment Plan as an excellent option for couples who are already planning for their once-in-a-lifetime dream wedding together. It combines both investment and life insurance features, so you can start your new chapter feeling confident, protected, and financially prepared. Plus, it’s super flexible — you can customize it to match you and your partner’s lifestyle and future goals as a couple.
The Flexi Investment Plan comes with a range of helpful features designed to support couples at every stage. These include life protection, a mix of diversified investment options, flexible payment and withdrawal terms, opportunities for increased growth, and additional policy benefits. With payment periods from 5 to 20 years and coverage that lasts up to age 100, it’s a smart way to stay financially secure — so you can enjoy planning your wedding and looking forward to your future together with peace of mind.
“As Kiefer faces a new chapter of his life as a future husband and father, Cocolife is proud to support his journey towards a secure, comfortable, and fulfilling family life,” said Atty. Martin A. Loon, President and CEO of Cocolife. “This is one of the reasons why we developed the Cocolife Flexi Series — to help couples turn their dreams of a joyful, financially secure married life into reality.”
As we wish Kiefer and Diana all the best in their marriage, Cocolife remains committed to helping couples build better futures together.
To know more about Cocolife’s Flexi Investment and other quality financial products, visit https://www.cocolife.com/products/individual-insurance/.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
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Building financial security without missing out
Cocolife ambassador Kiefer Ravena shares tips on smart spending and saving
For young adults just beginning to earn money, saving can often feel like sacrificing all the fun. In a consumer-driven world, spending on nights out and keeping up with pricey trends has become the norm for younger generations. But managing your finances doesn’t have to mean missing out on life.
By developing smart spending habits, young adults can find the sweet spot between enjoying the present and securing their future, proving that financial responsibility and personal well-being can go hand in hand.
Filipino basketball player for Yokohama B-Corsairs in Japan’s B.League and Cocolife Brand Ambassador Kiefer Ravena shares tips on how to make budgeting both a fulfilling and enjoyable journey through smart spending.
Track your expenses and create a realistic budget
One of the biggest mistakes people make with money is not keeping track of where it goes.
Whether it’s through shopping sprees or spontaneous food trips, Filipinos often tend to spend their hard-earned cash on things they don’t really need. This lack of awareness can lead to overspending and financial stress, making it harder to save for bigger goals.
Using budgeting apps, spreadsheets, or even a simple notebook can provide clarity on where funds are going. Once you have a clearer picture, creating a realistic budget that covers essentials like rent, food, and transportation makes it easier to cut unnecessary expenses without completely giving up the things that bring joy.
Popularized by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren in her book All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan, the 50/30/20 rule is a helpful way to maintain financial balance without feeling restricted. The rule suggests allocating 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment.
“I try to write down my expenses and chart them accordingly — from bills to business to extracurriculars. It may not be exact, but at least I have an estimate of how much I spend versus how much I earn,” shared Cocolife Brand Ambassador Kiefer C. Ravena.
Practice intentional spending
With the rise of e-commerce platforms, Filipinos now have easy access to make impulse purchases directly from their phones, which can quickly drain their finances. Double-digit sales, seasonal price drops, and payday discounts make it easier than ever to justify unplanned spending, often leading to unnecessary purchases that add up over time.
“I try not to enter stores where I know I’ll make an impulsive purchase. I just avoid so I don’t have a reason to buy,” Kiefer shared.
One method that has helped individuals like Kiefer improve his financial discipline is the 24-hour rule. This rule suggests waiting a full day before deciding on a purchase. If, after 24 hours, consumers still believe the purchase aligns with their financial priorities and long-term goals, then it may be reasonable to proceed. In many cases, however, people find that the desire to buy fades, saving them from unnecessary expenses.
Compare prices and maximize discounts
Even financially disciplined individuals spend some of their money on personal desires every once in a while. The key difference lies in how they approach it. Instead of giving in to impulse purchases, smart consumers take the time to compare prices and use discounts to ensure they get the most value for their money.
With many online and physical stores offering similar products, prices may vary based on quality, demand, and supply. Before making a purchase, it’s wise to explore different retailers, check price comparison websites, and monitor price trends. Additionally, try searching for additional savings through discounts, vouchers, or rewards programs.
However, smart spending also means exercising financial discipline, especially when using credit.
“First, don’t get a credit card if you have difficulty controlling your spending — that’s a common pitfall for many individuals.” Kiefer advised. “Second, set a spending limit on your credit card to ensure that essential expenses are prioritized and not overlooked.”
Avoid lifestyle inflation
Filipinos have become increasingly wary of inflation since the COVID-19 pandemic, as rising costs of goods and services have significantly impacted their daily expenses and spending habits. While prices have eased in some areas, a common pitfall that often goes unnoticed is lifestyle inflation — the tendency to increase spending as earnings rise.
The temptation to splurge on nicer clothes, newer cars, or the latest gadgets can feel like a well-deserved reward for hard work. However, when spending rises as quickly, or even faster than income, it can become difficult to save. What starts as an occasional indulgence can gradually become the norm, making it harder to scale back later on.
“I prioritize savings by having an end goal of what I want to achieve 10-15 years down the road. It’s always easy to spend when you have high cash flow, but as athletes, we know we can’t play forever,” Kiefer added.
Automate savings and investments
The easiest way to build wealth is to pay yourself first. However, relying on willpower alone to save a portion of one’s income can be challenging, as daily expenses and impulsive spending often take priority. Fortunately, digital banks and e-wallets now offer automatic savings and investment features on most platforms.
With this method, the urge to spend first and save later becomes an afterthought, since savings and investments are already set aside before any discretionary spending happens. Start small if needed. Even consistently setting aside 5%-10% of your income can make a significant difference over time.
“[My] financial goals have always been, ‘Let your money earn money.’ If I could invest and earn compared to my workload, that is the goal,” Kiefer concluded.
Beyond saving and budgeting, taking advantage of investment opportunities is the next step in growing wealth and securing financial stability. Cocolife’s Flexi Protection, part of the company’s Flexi Series, offers coverage that ensures financial support for loved ones in unexpected events.
This product offers a mix of different investment options based on how much risk you’re comfortable with. You can choose from funds like the Peso Guaranteed Fund, Fixed Income Fund, Equity Fund, and Bond Fund. You can switch between them anytime to fit your financial goals.
“Just as we support Kiefer, Cocolife shares your goal of living a secure, comfortable, and fulfilling life. That’s why we created the Cocolife Flexi Series — to give you the freedom to design your own investment and insurance plan based on your resources and unique needs, so you can enjoy life to the fullest with confidence in your financial future,” said Cocolife President and CEO Atty. Martin A. Loon.
Flexi Protection offers flexible payment options to match your budget and goals. You can choose to pay regularly or for a shorter time — 5, 7, 10, 15, or 20 years. You can also add to or withdraw from your investment anytime without having to wait for your policy anniversary.
To further strengthen your protection, optional riders such as Accidental Death and Dismemberment, Waiver of Premium Upon Disability, and Critical Illness Benefit can be added to your policy.
To learn more about Cocolife’s Flexi Protection, visit https://www.cocolife.com/flexi-protection/.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
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Kiefer Ravena on his holistic approach to wellness
As a seasoned basketball player himself, Kiefer Ravena is no longer a stranger to discipline. As one of the top basketball players in the Philippines — and now a player of Yokohama B-Corsairs in Japan’s B.League, his success on the court is built on more than just talent — it’s the result of relentless consistency and a well-balanced approach to fitness.
In an interview, Kiefer shared practical tips on how he maintains his health and performance, both on and off the court.
Stick to your diet
Maintaining peak physical condition takes more than just rigorous training. For Kiefer, a well-balanced diet is essential to staying fit.
“One thing I’ve learned from being overseas is the consistent discipline you need when it comes to your diet,” he shared. “One cheat day can lead to another. I try to avoid sweets as much as I can and make sure to eat on time and eat healthy.”
Kiefer understands how food choices directly impact overall fitness. By limiting sugar intake and following a structured meal schedule, he ensures his body receives the nutrients it needs to perform at its best.
In addition to dieting, hydration is a top priority. Kiefer makes a conscious effort to drink enough water each day, as proper hydration aids in muscle recovery, maintains energy levels, and supports optimal performance.
Strength training as a necessity
Strength training, according to Kiefer, is a non-negotiable part of his fitness regimen.
“Strength training is just as important as the games,” he said.
Competing at a high level demands that athletes push their bodies to the limit, and without proper conditioning, the physical toll of the season can be overwhelming.
Kiefer credits his endurance on the court to a strict and consistent training routine. He believes that beyond skills and strategy, physical preparedness is what enables athletes like him to maintain peak performance.
For those aiming to stay in top shape, Kiefer offers straightforward advice: stay consistent. Fitness, he emphasized, is a long-term commitment that requires dedication. It’s not just about short-term gains; it’s about building and sustaining a healthy, active lifestyle over time.
Prioritize rest
Peak performance is often associated with rigorous training and intense practice sessions. However, the star athlete emphasizes that rest and recovery are just as essential to maintaining a strong and healthy body.
Kiefer follows a structured recovery routine to ensure his body can withstand the demands of high-level competition.
“Recovery equipment, the right supplements, and natural rest,” he shared. “I’ve developed this routine, and it has helped a lot in allowing me to continue what I’m doing.”
While pushing physical limits is a key part of athletic growth, neglecting recovery can lead to fatigue, injuries, and a decline in overall performance.
Consistency in routine
Training requires discipline, and for many athletes, staying consistent is often the biggest challenge. But for Kiefer, the secret to staying fit and healthy lies in one word: routine.
“Routines and daily reminders of why I’m here playing overseas,” he shared.
From early morning workouts to scheduled recovery sessions, having a set plan minimizes distractions and keeps performance levels high. Sticking to a routine ensures that training remains a priority even when fatigue sets in or outside pressures arise.
Listen to your body
While regular exercise is essential, overtraining is a common pitfall among fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike.
Kiefer warns that pushing too hard can often do more harm than good. “You have to really listen to your body. I feel like that’s the only way,” he shared.
When the body is overworked, performance may decline instead of improve. Overtraining can also lead to fatigue and a higher risk of injury. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the need for rest and give the body time to recover.
Keep a strong mental game
Staying fit and healthy is often associated with regular exercise, but mental well-being is just as important. Kiefer emphasized that clearing the mind and trying new activities can make a significant difference in maintaining overall health.
“Clear your mind every now and then. Find something new to do — something that challenges your curiosity and competitiveness, and is different from what you regularly do,” he explained.
Choose the best health partner
For Kiefer, staying fit goes beyond the court — it’s also about making smart life choices. One of those choices is Cocolife’s ARUGA plan, which provides flexible and affordable insurance options.
Unlike traditional health insurance plans, Cocolife’s ARUGA offers comprehensive health coverage, including benefits for critical illnesses, serious medical problems, and intensive care unit (ICU) confinement.
ARUGA offers a P1,000,000 medical insurance benefit for serious health conditions for just P147 per day. Additionally, up to P200,000 is covered for serious illnesses in their early stages.
In the case of unforeseen events, ARUGA eases the financial burden on the family by ensuring financial security for the beneficiaries.
If the policyholder outlives the policy and no major health condition benefit has been paid, the ARUGA plan includes a “return of premium,” in which they will receive 100% of the entire basic premiums paid.
As a Filipino basketball player competing on the international scene, it’s important for Kiefer to feel confident and secure about his health — allowing him to stay focused on training and performing at his best. That’s why he chooses Cocolife ARUGA as his trusted health and financial partner. Cocolife offers comprehensive insurance products and services designed to meet the evolving needs of Filipinos in all walks of life.
“Cocolife is proud of Kiefer Ravena for showcasing the excellence of Filipino athletes abroad,” said Cocolife President and CEO Atty. Martin A. Loon. “We remain committed to supporting him — and other Filipino athletes like him — by offering top-quality health and financial products and services that empower them to stay focused on achieving their dreams.”
Learn more about Cocolife ARUGA plan by going to https://www.cocolife.com/products/individual-insurance/.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
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