Partnerships for Progress: Takeaways from ZFF at AVPN Southeast Asia 2025
News | by Krizzia Esperanza
The Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) joined the Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) Southeast Asia Summit 2025 in Singapore, a gathering of social investors and changemakers working to create meaningful impact across the region, last February 24-25, 2025.
AVPN has been a key player in connecting organizations, driving collaboration, and shaping a stronger ecosystem for sustainable solutions. In the Philippines, it brings together foundations, corporations, and stakeholders to support lasting development efforts.
On the first day, ZFF Chairman Dr. Manuel Dayrit met with Philanthropy Asia Alliance, World Mosquito Program, Centre for Exploratory Altruism Research (CEARCH), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). In these conversations, Dr. Dayrit shared how ZFF’s Health Change Model is helping improve health and nutrition outcomes in local communities.
Day two of the summit focused on impact investments in health and nutrition. Discussions also touched on climate resilience, women’s empowerment, peace and social cohesion, and leadership—important pillars for long-term, sustainable development.
During the breakout session “Investing in Micronutrient Nutrition – A Vision for Southeast Asia”, experts from Thousand Days Fund, Micronutrient Forum, and Helen Keller International stressed the importance of ensuring people have access to essential nutrients. Dr. Dayrit joined the plenary discussion, noting the challenges of providing nutrition services in remote areas of the Philippines. He said that leaders must consider these realities when planning and budgeting for health programs to ensure equitable access.
ZFF remains focused on collaboration, innovation, and policy transformation to ensure that every Filipino—especially those in vulnerable communities—has access to essential health and nutrition services. The main takeaway? Real change happens when organizations, leaders, and communities come together with a shared vision for better health.
