When Connectivity Matters Most: PLDT Enterprise Brings Starlink Support to Mindanao Recovery Efforts

Tweet

In the aftermath of the powerful earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao, PLDT Enterprise, together with PLDT and Smart, deployed Starlink satellite connectivity solutions and mobilized emergency communications support to assist communities, responders and local government units in maintaining critical links during a time of urgent need.

PLDT and Smart immediately dispatched field and operations teams to assess network facilities and support restoration activities in affected areas, including General Santos City and several municipalities in South Cotabato. This was made possible through close coordination among PLDT Enterprise, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and local government units on the ground. Assessments showed that most PLDT and Smart network facilities remained stable and operational, with service disruptions largely caused by commercial power interruptions affecting certain sites.

PLDT Enterprise successfully rolled out Starlink connectivity solutions in areas where communications infrastructure had been affected, helping provide vital connectivity for emergency response operations and local communities. These deployments serviced impacted areas, including Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital and Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital, as well as command centers and rescue operation centers supporting emergency response and coordination efforts in affected areas.

"During emergencies, connectivity becomes deeply personal. It allows people to reach loved ones, enables responders to coordinate more effectively and helps communities begin the difficult work of rebuilding," said Menardo “Butch" G. Jimenez Jr., Chief Operating Officer of PLDT.

Support for the Front Lines of Disaster Response When and Where Communication Matters Most

The deployment of Starlink solutions reflects PLDT Enterprise's broader commitment to delivering resilient and rapidly deployable connectivity to communities and institutions facing challenging circumstances, particularly in locations affected by disaster-related disruptions, power outages or geographic limitations.

“We strive to be the first responders for the first responders because restoring connectivity at the front line of a disaster can be a powerful force multiplier,” said Blums Pineda, Senior Vice President and Head of Enterprise Business Group at PLDT Enterprise. “That means getting our response teams on the ground quickly to assess needs, restore services, and support connectivity where it matters most. The faster we reconnect communities and response teams, the sooner every call, every update, and every connection can help make a difference.”

The initiative underscores the importance of dependable and flexible communications infrastructure in supporting disaster response and community resilience. Through solutions such as Starlink Satellite Broadband, PLDT Enterprise continues to equip local governments, emergency responders and institutions with technology that can help sustain communications when conventional networks face significant challenges.

As Mindanao communities move forward from disaster response to rebuilding, PLDT Enterprise, PLDT, and Smart remain committed to working alongside local partners to support response and rebuilding efforts, ensuring that connectivity remains available when it matters most.

SM Investments, PHIVOLCS Partner to Strengthen Disaster Resilience through GeoRiskPH

Tweet

SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM group, has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) to strengthen the use of hazard and risk information in planning for its properties and operations across the country.

SM Investments, the parent company of the SM Group, and PHIVOLCS sign a memorandum of agreement to utilize GeoRiskPH. From left: Dr. Louernie De Sales, VP, Sustainability, SM Prime Holdings, Inc (witness); Timothy Daniels, Consultant and Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability, SM Investments; Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, Phivolcs Director; Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., DOST Secretary; Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Resilience (witness)

Timothy Daniels, Consultant and Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability of SM Investments, and Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, Director of PHIVOLCS, signed a memorandum of agreement covering SM's use of GeoRiskPH, a government platform that brings together information on natural hazards and related risks.

Under the agreement, SM will use GeoRiskPH tools, including HazardHunterPH Pro, Geomapper PH, PlanSmart and GeoAnalyticsPH, to assess potential hydrometeorological and geological hazards across its facilities, assets and operational sites. The information will help SM make better-informed decisions on its properties, business continuity plans and longer-term investments.

"Partnerships like this with the private sector contribute significantly in helping us better understand the country's multi-faceted needs regarding resilience," Dr. Bacolcol said. "The government actively encourages more public-private partnerships of this nature, as integrating data-driven hazard tools in businesses is essential for sustainable national development and effective disaster risk reduction."

For SM, the partnership is part of its long-term approach to investing in resilient businesses and communities.

"SM has always taken a long-term view of its investments. Understanding the risks around our properties and operations helps us make better decisions about where and how we invest," Mr. Daniels said. "Working with DOST-PHIVOLCS gives us access to the country's scientific expertise and better information to strengthen our businesses and the communities we serve."

The initiative supports SM's approach to both climate adaptation and broader disaster resilience. By incorporating information and methodologies from national scientific agencies into its planning, SM can better understand the physical risks facing its businesses and take these into account in investment, asset management and business continuity decisions.

The partnership also reflects the role businesses can play alongside government in strengthening national resilience. As SM continues to invest and expand across the Philippines, better information on local hazards can help it plan for growth while managing risks to its businesses and the communities in which it operates.

realme 16T 5G launches in the Philippines for as low ₱37/day via Home Credit

Tweet

Pre-order and enjoy ₱7,298 worth of offers, including a FREE Laifen SE Lite Hair Dryer, Privilege Card, and ₱2,000 OFF.

realme Philippines has officially launched the realme 16T 5G, headlined by an 8000mAh Titan Battery, a 50MP Sony IMX852 camera, and IP69 Pro dust and water resistance under the campaign tagline “More Power, More Moments.

Power That Lasts Up to Two Days

Equipped with an 8000mAh Titan Battery, the realme 16T 5G provides users up to two days of use on a single charge and comes with a 7-Year Battery Health Guarantee, retaining at least 80 percent capacity even after 7 years of usage. It's paired with 45W SUPERVOOC Charging, juicing up the battery from 0 to 50 percent in 46 minutes, and supports both wired reverse charging and bypass charging for gaming while plugged in.

Camera Ready for Every Vibe

Camera-wise, the system centers on a 50MP Sony IMX852 main sensor, running on TÜV Rheinland-certified LumaColor IMAGE Algorithm, built for accurate skin tones and balanced exposure between subject and background. Its standout feature is the Vibe Master Mode, which gives shots that classic film camera look straight out of the app. It's easy enough to use on Auto, but also lets users switch to Pro mode and shoot in RAW DNG for extra editing room, plus tweak the grain, sharpness, and saturation to match their own vibe.

And for those who want to add a little creativity into their shots, the realme 16T 5G is also loaded with NEXT AI imaging suite to achieve that ‘aesthetic shots’, including AI Edit Genie 2.0, AI Perfect Shot, AI Eraser, AI Portrait Glow, and AI Instant Clip

Smooth Display, Built Tough.

On to the display, the phone is equipped with a 6.8-inch display running up to 144Hz and 1,200 nits of peak brightness. It also carries an IP69 Pro rating which certifies it against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets on top of standard dust and submersion protection, along with ArmorShell™ protection, and military-grade shock resistance.

Pricing and Availability

The realme 16T 5G comes in Aurora Green and Starlight Black, with an SRP of PHP 22,999 (8GB+128GB) and PHP 24,999 (8GB+256GB). Starting August 28, it will be available for as low as PHP 15,731.

At all official realme stores nationwide, customers who pre-order the realme 16T 5G from August 28 to September 3 and claim their reserved unit from September 4 to 15 can enjoy offers worth ₱7,298, including a FREE Laifen SE Lite Hair Dryer, a Privilege Card with a 6-Month Extended Warranty and 6-Month Screen Damage Protection, plus an instant ₱2,000 OFF. Meanwhile, customers who purchase the realme 16T 5G during the First Selling Period from September 4 to 15 can enjoy offers worth ₱3,499, including a Privilege Card and an instant ₱2,000 OFF.

For flexible payment options, the realme 16T 5G is also available via Home Credit with 0% interest installment for up to 18 months, starting at just ₱37/day. From August 28 to September 15, customers can also enjoy an additional ₱500 OFF on Home Credit transactions using code REALME16T500.

#BidaMoment Campaign

Alongside the official launch, realme is also rolling out its #BidaMoment campaign, a play on “Be the Moment,” encouraging users to share their best realme-shot photos publicly using #BidaMoment and #BidaMomentwithrealme. Sixteen lucky winners will take home a realme 16T 5G, while select entries may also get the chance to be featured on a billboard.

For more updates on the realme 16T 5G and the #BidaMoment Campaign, follow realme Philippines' official Facebook page.

Canon Philippines Expands imageFORCE Line-up, Empowering Enterprises and SMEs to "Make Business Move"

Tweet

New imageFORCE models bring AI-assisted maintenance and stronger device and network security to businesses of all sizes

Canon today announced the launch of four new imageFORCE multifunction device (MFD) series, imageFORCE C3100, C3026, 4100 and 4000, completing its imageFORCE lineup for businesses of all sizes.

Designed for today's evolving workplaces, the new models bring enterprise-level printing, scanning and document management capabilities to more organizations, from large enterprises to small and medium-sized businesses. Built around four key strengths: Security, Reliability, Sustainability and Connectivity, the imageFORCE series helps businesses work smarter, protect critical information and keep operations running smoothly.

"The latest imageFORCE models are designed to simplify workflows while providing the performance and protection businesses need to thrive," said Rafael Pleno, Director of Business Imaging Solutions, Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc.

Key features of the new imageFORCE series include:

● Early issue detection through AI-assisted maintenance, reducing downtime and keeping operations running efficiently.

● Sharp, consistent document quality powered by Canon's D² Exposure Technology.

● Advanced protection for devices, networks and sensitive business information.

● Easier collaboration through secure printing, scanning and document access across cloud platforms for hybrid workplaces.

● Lower environmental impact with up to 30% recycled plastics and energy-saving technologies.

The launch further strengthens Canon's leadership in business imaging. Canon was recently recognized by Keypoint Intelligence with the BLI 2026 A3 Line of the Year Award for the 13th consecutive year, recognizing the outstanding performance and ease of use of its A3 multifunction device portfolio.

With the new imageFORCE series, Canon continues to help businesses make business move. For more information, visit the Canon Philippines website.

For Any Kind of Stay Guests Need, There’s Always Richmonde Hotel Ortigas

Tweet

Travelers today rarely fit into just one category. A family may be looking for a quick city escape, and a professional may need to combine work with a little downtime, while one guest may be staying longer to make the most of a business trip and another may require a stay that accommodates their faith, cultural needs, wellness requirements, or sustainable choices.

As one of the first hotels that opened in Ortigas Center more than 27 years ago, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO) has been catering to the needs of the visitors of this continuously growing corporate and commercial district. And for years, whatever the reason for their journey, there’s always Richmonde providing a dependable place to stay with carefully curated options designed around the different ways guests travel, work, relax, and spend time together. Bringing together comfortable accommodations, proximity to the CBD’s business and lifestyle destinations, convenient access to the metro’s neighboring cities, dining choices, attentive Filipino hospitality, and more of what matters to each guest, RHO’s latest room packages are designed for enjoyable stays that feel distinctly personal to them.

Stay Together Family Time Package

Spend more time with the people who matter most at value-for-money rates with the

Stay Together family time package which comes full of freebies the family will love.

For Families Who Want More Time Together

A family getaway does not always require a long journey. Sometimes, a change of scenery in the city is all it takes to turn an ordinary weekend into meaningful time together. The STAY TOGETHER Family Time Package caters to families with children from toddlers to pre-teens, whether they are visiting Metro Manila or simply looking for a quick family staycation. Rates start at PhP 4,700 nett with inclusions and perks valued at as much as PhP 2,000.

The package includes complimentary breakfast at Richmonde Café for up to two adults and two children aged 12 and below, one complimentary extra bed, and an upgrade to the next room category. Families can also enjoy 20% off Room Service and Richmonde Café food and beverage orders, 15% off Lobby Café orders with a minimum purchase of PhP 1,000, late check-out until 2:00 p.m. subject to availability, and welcome snacks to share.

From a leisurely breakfast to a cozy night in with the family, the package gives guests more opportunities to enjoy their own kind of family time.

For Professionals Who Want to Work Well and Live Well

The modern business traveler is no longer defined by a packed corporate itinerary. Remote workers, digital nomads, and bleisure travelers normally look for accommodations where productivity and relaxation can both be experienced.

Stay Balanced Workcation Package

Work well and live well with the Stay Balanced workcation package with

amazing rates and even more amazing perks and savings.

The STAY BALANCED Workcation Package is designed for exactly that. Starting at PhP 4,100 nett, it offers perks valued at up to PhP 2,500, including a choice between PhP 500 in dining credits, redeemable at any hotel dining outlet, or complimentary use of alt|space, its co-working area at the Lobby Café, with consumable PhP 500 worth of food and beverage. Guests can also enjoy 20% off massage services, 10% off airport transfers, early check-in as early as 10:00 a.m. subject to availability, and a welcome amenity.

Whether the day calls for focused work with a change in scenery, a good meal with time to recharge, the package gives guests the flexibility to create a workday that works for them.

For Travelers Who Prefer to Take Their Time

Stay Longer Extended Stay Package

Get more value for your stay and more time to enjoy the metro when you stay 2 nights or more.

Some trips are better enjoyed without watching the clock. For bleisure travelers spending more than a night in Metro Manila, the STAY LONGER Extended Stay Package offers greater value while providing a convenient home base in the heart of Ortigas. Rates start at PhP 3,900 nett per night for a minimum two-night stay, and PhP 3,800 nett per night for a minimum five-night stay, with food and beverage discounts and other perks included.

With offices, shopping destinations, dining, and lifestyle attractions within easy reach, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas allows guests to settle into the city comfortably while making the most of a longer itinerary. For travelers who prefer a little more time to work, explore, rest, or simply enjoy the city at their own pace, staying longer can make all the difference.

For Guests Who Value a More Inclusive Stay

A comfortable hotel experience should also be one where guests can observe their faith with ease. Recognizing the needs of Muslim travelers, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas offers the STAY COMFORTABLE Muslim-Friendly Package, designed to provide thoughtful amenities that support a more convenient and inclusive visit.

 Stay Comfortable Muslim-Friendly Package

Committed to inclusivity, Richmonde provides Muslim guests with access to amenities

that support their faith, including Halal menu items.

The package includes PhP 1,000 in dining credits for the hotel's Halal menu, a Qibla in the room, use of a prayer mat and Quran, access to the hotel’s dedicated prayer room, and 10% off laundry services.

These provisions allow Muslim guests to enjoy the conveniences of a hotel stay while having access to facilities and services that help them practice their faith comfortably.

Stay Mindful Sustainable Package

Amenities included in the Mindful Stay Package support the hotel’s zero food waste program

which is part of its commitment to sustainability.

For Those Who Want to Stay Mindful

For travelers looking to improve their well-being and indulge in some quiet reflection while maintaining their eco-friendly way of life, the STAY MINDFUL Sustainable Package incorporates these in a two-night hotel accommodation starting at PhP 9,000 nett. Guests receive a locally made welcome amenity, an edible and sustainably made turndown treat, and 20% off the hotel's plant-based menu, making it easier to explore more mindful dining choices during their stay. Beyond the individual experience, a portion of proceeds from every stay will be donated to Project Pearls, extending the impact of the guest's stay beyond the hotel. It is an invitation to take a pause, enjoy a quieter pace, appreciate local flavors and craftsmanship, and make a positive contribution along the way.

Different Reasons to Stay. One Place to Count On.

The way people travel continues to evolve, and so do their expectations of a hotel. At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, these different needs are not treated as exceptions—they are part of what makes every guest's stay unique. Across each experience, one thing remains consistent: a commitment to comfort, convenience, and RHO’s signature Sampaguita brand of warm, caring, and gracious service that guests can rely on. There may be many reasons to travel, but for your kind of stay, there’s always Richmonde Hotel Ortigas.

All packages are available for stays until the end of the year. For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.

About Richmomde Hotel Ortigas

As the initial venture of leading real estate company, Megaworld Corporation, into the hospitality business, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is a proud local brand that opened in 1999 at the heart of the then-burgeoning Ortigas Center. It is now a member of the steadily growing stable of homegrown brands under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph and for the latest news on the hotel, follow @RichmondeHotelOrtigas on Facebook and Instagram.

About Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. The hotel chain is the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group recognized by the World Travel Awards and the country’s largest hotel operator with 15 hotels, 8 brands, and 9,000 room keys including the ones in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, the sampaguita, across its brands including Savoy and Belmont in Boracay, Mactan Cebu, and Pasay. Richmonde hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo. And Kingsford Hotel and Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque, Hotel Lucky Chinatown Hotel in Binondo, Chancellor Hotel in Boracay, and Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas.