I Ate Two Pizzas Alone, Then Starved Myself for Two Days. It Led Me to Build a Weight-Loss Company

  

Filipino founder Joachim Del Castillo turned years of bingeing, restriction and punishing exercise into Obra Health, an affordable personalized GLP-1 service offering clinician-guided semaglutide and tirzepatide treatment.

“Some nights, I ate two boxes of pizza alone. Then I would run until I believed I had burned it all off, or refuse to eat for the next two days.

“I lived like this for years.

“It is one of the reasons I built Obra Health.”

From the age of 18 to 26, Filipino founder Joachim Del Castillo repeatedly found himself trapped in a cycle of bingeing, guilt and punishment.

Other nights, it was three or four packs of pancit canton. Once he started eating, it could feel impossible to stop. Afterwards, he believed he had to pay for it through extreme exercise or restriction.

“It was not discipline,” Del Castillo said. “I thought every meal had to be earned and every mistake had to be repaid.”

Now, at 26, he is launching Obra Health, a Philippine healthcare service offering personalized, clinician-led GLP-1 weight-loss treatment for eligible adults.

The company was created around a simple belief:

Filipinos should not have to choose between weight-loss care they cannot afford and products they cannot trust.

It was never as simple as “try harder”

Del Castillo tried exercising harder, eating less and starting over.

Again and again.

“My problem was not that I did not care enough,” he said. “I cared so much that I was punishing myself.”

He also saw how difficult healthy routines could be for ordinary working Filipinos.

His parents could leave home at 7 a.m. and return at 8 p.m. after work, traffic and commuting. By the time they arrived home, there was little time or energy left for exercise, meal planning or medical appointments.

The standard advice sounded simple: eat better, exercise more and be disciplined.

Real life was not.

“It is easy to tell someone to make time for their health,” Del Castillo said. “But when work and traffic take almost your entire day, where is that time supposed to come from?”

The choice should not be expensive care or questionable products

When Del Castillo studied the Philippine weight-loss market, he found people being pushed toward two difficult options.

Clinician-led GLP-1 programs could be too expensive to continue month after month. Cheaper products were widely available through social media and online sellers, but some came with unclear sourcing, limited medical oversight or labels stating that they were intended only for research.

People looking for help were effectively being asked to choose between price and trust.

Obra Health was built to close that gap.

The company is built to compete as the most affordable clinician-led GLP-1 service in the Philippines while still providing a complete patient experience.

What personalized GLP-1 treatment means

Obra patients begin with an online health assessment. A qualified clinician reviews their health history, goals, current medications and potential risk factors.

When GLP-1 treatment is medically appropriate, personalized options may include compounded semaglutide or compounded tirzepatide.

The clinician determines:

Whether GLP-1 treatment is appropriate

Which medication may be suitable

The patient’s starting dose

How the treatment should be adjusted over time

Whether additional information, laboratory tests or consultation is needed

Treatment decisions remain with the clinician. A prescription is never guaranteed, and not everyone will be eligible.

When prescribed, medication is compounded and dispensed through a pharmacy licensed by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration.

Patients also receive their required supplies, delivery coordination, refill assistance and continued support from an Obra care team.

Current GLP-1 plans, prices and eligibility information are available at www.obra.health

The founder is also an Obra patient

Del Castillo has gone through Obra’s patient process himself, including the health assessment, independent clinician review, pharmacy preparation and care-team support.

His eligibility, medication and dosing plan are determined by a clinician through the same process used for other patients.

“I am not asking people to use a service I would not use myself,” Del Castillo said. “I experience Obra from both sides. I see the work behind the company, but I also know what it feels like to wait for instructions, receive the package, ask questions and depend on the care team.”

Being a patient has influenced decisions across the service, from the clarity of the assessment and treatment instructions to packaging, delivery updates and support.

“There is no special founder version of Obra,” he said. “I go through the same process we are building for every patient. That keeps us honest about what feels clear, what feels confusing and what needs to be better.”

Del Castillo’s comments relate to Obra’s service and patient experience. They are not evidence that a particular medication will work for everyone or a guarantee of a medical outcome.

Affordable should not mean uncertain

Obra is competing on price, but Del Castillo says affordability cannot come at the expense of medication quality.

The pharmacy behind the service uses pharmaceutical-grade active pharmaceutical ingredients rather than materials sold only for research purposes.

Obra has also engaged SGS Philippines to conduct local independent testing of selected samples instead of relying solely on documents provided by an overseas supplier.

Depending on the testing stage and sample, assessments may include:

- Potency

- Purity

- Sterility

- Endotoxin

- pH

Obra plans to publish plain-language explanations and available quality documents online so patients can better understand where their medication comes from and how its quality has been assessed.

SGS provides independent laboratory services and does not endorse Obra Health or its treatments.

“Patients should not have to trust a seller because the packaging looks professional or because someone posted a certificate online,” Del Castillo said.

“They deserve to know who reviewed their case, which pharmacy prepared their medication and what quality checks were performed.”

Nearly one in two Filipino adults is now overweight or obese

Obra is launching as weight-related health concerns continue to increase across the country.

According to the National Nutrition Council, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Filipino adults increased from 39.8% in 2023 to 44.5% in 2025, nearly one in every two adults.

Del Castillo believes the country needs a more useful conversation about weight: one that replaces shame with support and recognizes how work, commuting, cost and access affect people’s health.

Obra does not present GLP-1 medication as an effortless cure or a replacement for appropriate medical care. Its weight-management service also does not treat or replace specialized care for eating disorders.

For Del Castillo, Obra is the service he wishes had existed when he was trapped in his own cycle.

“I know what it feels like to want help but feel stuck between shame, unaffordable care and something you cannot fully trust,” he said.

“I built Obra because personalized GLP-1 treatment and legitimate weight-loss care should not be something only wealthy Filipinos can afford.”

Current plans, prices and eligibility information are available at www.obra.health.

This article is for general information only and does not provide medical advice. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription medications. Treatment requires an individual clinical assessment, and a prescription is not guaranteed. Compounded medications are not the same as branded products.

About ObraRx Inc.

Obra Health is a Philippine healthcare service making personalized, clinician-led GLP-1 weight-loss treatment more affordable.

Eligible adults can complete an online health assessment and receive an independent clinical review. When treatment is medically appropriate, options may include compounded semaglutide or compounded tirzepatide, prescribed according to the individual patient’s health information and clinical needs.

Prescribed medication is compounded and dispensed through a Philippine FDA-licensed pharmacy, with supplies, delivery coordination, refill assistance and care-team support.

Obra Health is built around affordable access, personalized treatment, independent medical judgment, licensed pharmacy preparation and transparent medication-quality information.

Cebuana Lhuillier Celebrates Excellence and Outstanding Performance at the 2026 Brillo Awards

For years, the Brillo Awards have stood as Cebuana Lhuillier’s highest distinction, honoring the loyalty, achievements, and contributions of Ka Cebuanas who have helped shape the organization. This year, under the theme “Spotlight is Yours,” the tradition takes on a renewed focus, putting the people behind the company’s success center stage and recognizing the journeys, accomplishments, and contributions that continue to move Cebuana Lhuillier forward.

“What we’re celebrating goes beyond tenure or achievement. We honor the difference our KaCebuanas continue to make in the lives of others. No amount of setbacks have stopped them from showing up, because they understand that behind these transactions are millions of Filipinos who place their trust in us and rely on Cebuana Lhuillier every day," said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

Among the most meaningful tributes were the service milestones of KaCebuanas who have dedicated decades to the company, including this year’s 35-year awardees. Having witnessed Cebuana Lhuillier’s evolution firsthand, these long-serving employees embody the commitment, growth, and malasakit that have shaped the company over the years.

One of the awardees, Marietta Cabaron Baguio, reflected on the milestone: “Being with Cebuana Lhuillier is a deeply cherished achievement. I’m grateful for the years of growth, the people who have been part of the journey, and the opportunity to continue serving with passion and dedication.”

The Brillo Awards also applauded KaCebuanas and teams whose performance continues to raise the bar across the organization, with honors spanning key areas such as Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers Inc. (CLIB) Best in Overall Insurance Performance and Best in Customer Reach, Top Branch of the Year Cross-Sell Champions, Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank (CLRB) Microsavings Top Performing Branch, Best Branch for Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium, CX Excellence Award, and Money Mover of the Year.

The evening’s top performance honors went to CLH Datu Saber-Marawi as Branch of the Year, Area 502 as Area of the Year, and Region 5B as Region of the Year. The awards highlighted the teams’ strong performance, commitment, and collective drive to deliver results for their customers and communities. Peter Cabauatan, Regional Manager of Region 5B, enthused, "We are grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to celebrate what our team has accomplished. More than an award, it reminds us of the impact we can make for our clients and communities and motivates us to keep moving forward with purpose.”

Beyond performance and service milestones, Brillo also honors individuals who embody Cebuana Lhuillier's values and spirit through its special awards. The Edna Lhuillier Heart of Ka-Cebuana Award recognizes individuals whose compassion, generosity, and genuine care for others make a meaningful difference to their colleagues and communities. The Felix Contapay Award cites exceptional dedication and contributions that leave a lasting mark on the company. The Anselmo Hernandez Award acknowledges courage, determination, and the willingness to rise to challenges in service of others. Meanwhile, the Ambassador’s Cup Award salutes outstanding individuals who exemplify leadership, commitment, and the values that Cebuana Lhuillier stands for.

“As we pay tribute to our team members through the Brillo platform, we reinforce the principles that make our company an exceptional home for talent,” said Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Group Head for Corporate Services of Cebuana Lhuillier. “These honors represent a powerful expression of our employer brand, one that nurtures advancement and inspires standard-setting performance across all divisions.”

With each Brillo celebration, Cebuana Lhuillier reinforces a culture where dedication is valued, initiative is encouraged, and people are empowered to make a difference. As the company looks ahead, the stories honored this year serve as a reminder that its strongest legacy is built by the KaCebuanas who continue to raise the standard, lead with purpose, and shape what comes next.

Indian Yoga School PH Expands Senior Yoga Program as More Older Adults Embrace Active Aging

  

The growth of Indian Yoga School PH’s senior classes comes as the Philippines’ population continues to age. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2024 Census of Population, approximately 11.42 million Filipinos are aged 60 and above, representing 10.2 percent of the household population. Through adapted yoga sessions focused on accessible movement, balance, strength, and participation, Indian Yoga School PH is creating an environment where older adults can remain physically and socially active regardless of their starting ability.

TAYTAY, RIZAL – When the children of an elderly couple enrolled their parents at Indian Yoga School PH, their goal was relatively simple: they wanted Mom and Dad to have something to do.

They were not expecting yoga to become something their parents would eagerly look forward to.

During one of the grandmother’s first sessions, she required continuous assistance while walking and moving around the studio. After several guided sessions, her instructors and family began noticing changes in what she was able to do independently.

She can now sit herself up without assistance, participates more confidently during class, and is consistently excited to return for her next session. The couple has also progressed to walking back to their nearby home after attending class.

Their experience has become one of the stories emerging from Indian Yoga School PH’s growing senior community as the school welcomes more students aged 60 and above.

While the observed changes cannot be attributed solely to yoga and should not be interpreted as medical outcomes, the couple’s experience illustrates something increasingly important as the Philippines’ population ages: giving older adults accessible opportunities to move, participate, and remain engaged.

Older adults practice guided floor-based movements.

A Growing Need for Active Aging in the Philippines

The Philippines is gradually becoming an older country.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2024 Census of Population, approximately 11.42 million Filipinos are now aged 60 and above. Senior citizens represent 10.2 percent of the country’s household population, compared with 8.5 percent in 2020.

As that population grows, conversations around aging are increasingly expanding beyond longevity to include mobility, functional independence, social participation, and quality of life.

Regular physical activity plays an important role in that conversation.

The World Health Organization recommends that older adults remain physically active and include activities that emphasize functional balance and strength as part of their weekly routines. These activities can contribute to maintaining physical function and reducing the risk of falls and fall-related injuries.

Yoga can incorporate several elements relevant to active aging, including controlled movement, balance, flexibility, breathing, and strength. Importantly for older practitioners, many movements can also be adapted according to an individual’s existing physical ability.

Senior participants follow instructor-led exercises.

Yoga That Meets Seniors Where They Are

At Indian Yoga School PH, joining a yoga class does not require a senior student to already be flexible, strong, or independently mobile.

The school’s approach to its older practitioners begins with what each student can safely and comfortably do.

Movements may be modified according to mobility, balance, strength, and confidence. For some participants, the starting point may look very different from what people typically imagine when they think of yoga.

The goal is not to achieve complicated poses.

Instead, instructors focus on helping students participate in controlled, appropriate movement while gradually becoming more comfortable using their bodies.

“With our senior students, it isn’t about how deeply they can stretch or whether they can perform a particular pose. We meet them where they are. What has been especially meaningful for us is seeing them become more confident in movement and, just as importantly, genuinely excited to come back to class.”

That excitement has become particularly noticeable among the elderly couple.

What their children initially intended as an activity to occupy their parents’ time has become part of their regular routine.

The grandmother, who once needed consistent assistance while walking during her first sessions, now arrives eager to participate and show her instructors what she can do.

From a Couple to a Growing Senior Community

The couple is no longer an isolated example at Indian Yoga School PH.

As more families learn that the school can accommodate older adults, its group of senior practitioners has continued to grow.

The development has also changed what a yoga community can look like inside the school.

Students of different ages and physical capabilities can participate in a practice traditionally associated with flexibility and athleticism, while instructors adapt sessions around the abilities of the people actually in the room.

For senior students, the benefits of attending class can extend beyond the physical activity itself.

Regular sessions provide structure to the week, an opportunity to leave the house, interaction with instructors and fellow students, and something new to learn and anticipate.

For families, these seemingly small changes can carry significant meaning.

An aging parent sitting up without help, walking farther than before, participating in an activity with their spouse, or simply becoming excited about leaving the house can represent meaningful changes in everyday life.

Senior participants practice gentle movement exercises.

Changing the Perception of Who Can Practice Yoga

Indian Yoga School PH hopes its growing senior community can also challenge one of the most persistent misconceptions surrounding yoga: that people need to be young, flexible, or physically fit before they can begin.

For older adults in particular, that perception can become a barrier to trying new forms of movement.

The experience of the school’s senior students demonstrates a different starting point.

Some may arrive already active. Others may require assistance with everyday movement. What matters is that the practice is adapted to the individual rather than asking the individual to adapt to a predetermined level of yoga.

The school encourages older adults and their families to consider existing medical conditions, mobility limitations, and individual circumstances before beginning any new physical activity program and to consult an appropriate healthcare professional when necessary.

Movement, Independence, and Something to Look Forward To

The growing senior program at Indian Yoga School PH ultimately reflects a broader definition of active aging.

Progress does not always mean performing increasingly difficult exercises.

For an older adult, progress might mean sitting up independently. It might mean feeling steadier while moving. It might mean being able to walk home with a spouse after class.

And sometimes, it simply means waking up excited because today is yoga day.

For one elderly couple, what began because their children wanted to give them “something to do” has become a shared routine they now look forward to.

For Indian Yoga School PH, their story has also become part of something larger: a growing community showing that starting yoga does not have to come with an age limit.

Take the next step in your yoga journey with classes designed for every level of practice.

About Indian Yoga School PH

Indian Yoga School PH is a yoga education and wellness institution based in Taytay, Rizal, dedicated to making authentic Indian yoga accessible in the Philippines. Founded through the partnership of Filipina entrepreneur Anj Volante and Indian yoga teacher and therapist Yogi Kirtti Anand, the school offers traditional Hatha Yoga, Yoga Therapy, meditation, pranayama, and internationally inspired teacher training programs. Its mission is to provide a welcoming space where students of all experience levels can learn yoga through authentic lineage, proper alignment, and holistic well-being.

Cebuana Lhuillier, NDRRMC Champion Community Resilience with Nationwide Disaster Preparedness Day

 

Cebuana Lhuillier has partnered with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), through the Office of the Civil Defence (OCD) to launch a nationwide disaster preparedness initiative that brings emergency preparedness education and affordable financial protection to flood-prone communities across the country. Timed with the height of the rainy season, the program reinforces the importance of helping Filipino families prepare before disasters strike.

Implemented in collaboration with local government units and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMOs), the caravan will roll out in Marikina City, Cebu City, and Cagayan de Oro. Through expert-led disaster preparedness seminars and the distribution of Emergency Go-Bags to 100 families at every stop, the initiative equips communities with the knowledge and resources they need to better prepare for emergencies.

"The nationwide Disaster Preparedness Day reflects our commitment to making disaster preparedness and financial protection accessible to every Filipino family," said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier. "By combining education, community engagement, and insurance we are giving families both the knowledge and the safety net they need to face emergencies with confidence."

Each participating family will receive a Cebuana Lhuillier Emergency Go-Bag containing bottled water, canned food, flashlights, whistles, first aid kits, and other essential survival items to help strengthen household preparedness.

Through the Disaster Preparedness Day, Cebuana Lhuillier and the NDRRMC are helping build a culture of preparedness by bringing disaster readiness and financial protection closer to the communities that need them most. By combining practical preparedness with accessible microinsurance, the initiative empowers Filipino families not only to face disasters with greater confidence but also to recover and rebuild more quickly when they occur.