PLDT Enterprise and Power Mac Center simplify business mobile connectivity through expanded partnership

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Integrated Apple devices and Smart Postpaid bundles boost deployment and scalable operations

Power Mac Center leaders reaffirm their partnership with PLDT Enterprise to streamline how businesses deploy connected devices across distributed teams.

(In photo from L–R) Power Mac Center executives Maximo Bernales Jr., Business Information Technology Head; Joey Alvarez, Director for Marketing, Product Management, and Visual Merchandising; Maricel David, Head of Enterprise; and Lawrence Sison, Chief Executive Officer, together with PLDT Enterprise executives Blums Pineda, Senior Vice President and Head, Enterprise Business Group, PLDT & Smart; Vic Tria, First Vice President and Head, Enterprise Domestic Business and SME; Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head, Product Management and Innovation; and Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head, Domestic Enterprise Business, Regional and Commercial, PLDT Enterprise.

Businesses managing distributed teams and multi-branch operations can now deploy mobile technology faster and more efficiently through end-to-end wireless bundles from Power Mac Center and PLDT Enterprise.

Building on earlier collaborations across PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications Inc. (Smart), the partnership brings device and connectivity offerings in a single package: Combining premium Apple devices with Smart Enterprise Postpaid Plans. With this, enterprise customers of Power Mac Center can simplify procurement, reduce rollout timelines, and equip teams more seamlessly across locations.

Established in 1994, Power Mac Center operates over 100 locations nationwide to support both consumer and enterprise customers with devices, accessories, training, and after-sales services. “Through this collaboration, enterprise customers of Power Mac Center can access digital work tools in a more practical way – with Apple devices ready to connect on Smart’s superior mobile network from day one,” said Blums Pineda, Senior Vice President and Head of Enterprise Business Group at PLDT and Smart. “This supports organizations as they scale, enabling them to deploy technology faster and manage mobility with greater confidence.”

Simplifying how businesses equip and scale teams

For organizations, deploying devices across teams often involves multiple vendors, contracts, and activation processes. By consolidating these into one solution, the bundled offering helps streamline sourcing and onboarding while improving visibility for IT and procurement teams.

This is particularly relevant for businesses scaling operations or managing field and branch-based teams. With built-in mobile connectivity, employees can access business applications, customer data, and cloud platforms in real time - supporting more consistent and efficient operations wherever work happens.

“Our mission in the Enterprise Group at Power Mac Center is to deliver technology that is purpose-built for business. This partnership further strengthens our end-to-end solutions, enabling sustained productivity, seamless collaboration, and continuous innovation in our customers’ operations,” said Maricel David, Power Mac Center Head of Enterprise. “Having embedded these capabilities within our own operations, we are able to confidently bring the same proven approach to our clients.”

Supporting growth through integrated solutions

PLDT Enterprise executives highlight the collaboration with Power Mac Center to simplify mobile connectivity and enable scalable, enterprise-ready solutions nationwide. From (L–R): Blums Pineda, Senior Vice President and Head, Enterprise Business Group, PLDT & Smart; Vic Tria, First Vice President and Head, Enterprise Domestic Business and SME, PLDT Enterprise; Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head, Product Management and Innovation, PLDT Enterprise; and Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head, Domestic Enterprise Business, Regional and Commercial, PLDT Enterprise.

Beyond wireless bundles for their end-users, PLDT Enterprise supports Power Mac Center’s nationwide operations through enterprise-grade broadband, iGate, SIP Trunk, and voice and data solutions. This helps ensure reliable connectivity across stores and business locations, with future plans to include colocation services for strengthening digital infrastructure.

“This partnership makes it easier for businesses to standardize how they equip teams across locations - from sourcing devices, to activating connectivity – to consistently support day-to-day business continuity as they grow," explained Vic Tria, FVP and Head of Enterprise Domestic Business and SME of PLDT Enterprise. “At the same time, our continuous support for Power Mac Center’s nationwide operations through reliable connectivity across their own stores help ensure a strong digital foundation as their business expands.”

“Power Mac Center’s expanded partnership with the PLDT Group underscores our commitment to anticipating and responding to the evolving needs of our Enterprise customers. In delivering tailored Apple solutions that enable growth and innovation, we integrate connectivity as a core component, ensuring every device we deploy performs at its full potential and delivers maximum business value,” said Lawrence Sison, Power Mac Center CEO.

Together, PLDT Enterprise and Power Mac Center are helping businesses deploy technology with greater speed, consistency, and control. Furthermore, this initiative builds on PLDT Enterprise’s integrated ecosystem - which delivers end-to-end digital solutions that span fixed and wireless connectivity, cloud and ICT solutions, data centers, platforms, and global capacity - for today's increasingly mobile and distributed work environment.

For more information, visit: <https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-power-mac-and-smart-postpaid-bundles-pr>.

Embodying Excellence: InLife recognizes its outstanding employees

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For raising the standard of their work, service, and leadership, InLife honored its employees during the inaugural InLife Excellence Awards.

InLife Executive Chairperson Nina D. Aguas thanked the employee awardees for helping build the next chapter of InLife’s 115-year legacy of trust and service.

“For 115 years, InLife has stood beside Filipino families through wars, crises, rebuilding, growth, and transformation. We endured because, in every generation, there were InLife employees who chose to do their work well, protected our integrity, and served our policyholders with sincerity,” she said.

InLife recognized ten employees and three teams who have demonstrated outstanding project leadership, strengthened customer service, and helped future-proof InLife.

InLife Chief Human Resources Officer Rozana G. Pecson said the awards program reaffirms InLife’s culture of appreciation.

“At InLife, every achievement, whether big or small, is seen, honored, and celebrated. While we recognize exceptional teams and individuals for their outstanding contributions, every InLifer who shows up and gives their best, day in and day out, is appreciated. We encourage all employees to continue aspiring for excellence—not to seek recognition, but to find fulfillment in going above and beyond to serve our purpose of bringing a lifetime for good to Filipinos,” she said.

Leading with purpose, passion, and integrity

InLife recognized ten employees who have demonstrated outstanding project leadership, strengthened customer service, and helped future-proof InLife.

The employees awardees who led with purpose, passion, and integrity were: Maria Celeste Andes, Events and Merchandise Management Lead from Marketing Division; Zolah Botin, Principal Data Scientist from Data and Analytics Division; Joseph Gary De Guzman, Senior Property Engineer from Real Property Division; Atty. Joyce Anne Gascon, Corporate Lawyer from Legal and Governance Division; and Jeffrey Santiago, Solutions Development Lead from Information Technology Division.

The employees who consistently went beyond expectations were: Andrea Denise Gapan, Digital Archivist from Marketing Division; Michael Jan Banaylo, Actuarial Manager from Actuarial Division; Carina Galang, Solutions Delivery Head from Information Technology Division; Vince Jon Raymundo, Region Head of Metro Central Regional Office from Agency and Group Distribution; and Victor Samaniego, Jr., Business Development Manager from Bancassurance Division.

Representing InLife with pride and purpose

InLife recognized three cross-functional teams who have shown collaboration, unity of purpose, and shared commitment to delivering results. The team awardees were the Operational and Customer Excellence Team, New Business Straight-Through Policies Project Team, and Retire Without Worries Team.

InLife also gave special awards to Ethel Joy Salazar, Head of Operational and Customer Excellence; Darnyl Taguilaso, Head of Actuarial Corporate Department; and Kairos Team, who took charge of the 115th Anniversary commemorative book, microsite, and exhibit.

Fred Dioso, InLife Vice President for Rewards, Services, and Technology, Human Resources said the recognition program celebrates employees who contribute meaningfully to the company’s mission of providing a full-range of high-value insurance products and other related services that empower families to attain financial security.

“Excellence at InLife goes beyond individual achievement. It includes working together across teams, inspiring others through action, adapting to changes, and representing InLife with pride, professionalism, and purpose,” he said.

Globe AT HOME Amplifies Home Connectivity with Free WiFi 6 Modem Upgrade and Speed Boosts Up to 1Gbps

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As Filipino households continue to face the challenges of rising expenses and the ongoing energy crisis, Globe AT HOME is stepping up to ease the burden by making remote work, learning, and everyday digital living more efficient and sustainable. By proactively rewarding loyal customers with complimentary speed boosts of up to 1 Gbps, Globe AT HOME empowers families to balance work, school, and leisure at home, helping them save on transport-related costs, reduce energy use, and elevating their connection without added financial strain.

Customers can enjoy faster speeds at no additional cost, and those whose current modems cannot support the upgraded speeds can also upgrade their WiFi 6 modem for FREE with a 24‑month re‑lockup. This ensures that every household can maximize the benefits of stronger connectivity, whether for online classes, work from home, or even family entertainment.

“In solidarity with the government’s call for energy conservation, Globe AT HOME is committed to making the remote work and education experience as seamless as possible. By providing complimentary speed boosts of up to 1 Gbps and free WiFi 6 upgrades, we are empowering our customers to stay productive from the comfort of their homes,” said Abigail Cardino, Vice President and Head of Brand Management, Broadband Business at Globe.

“Every digital task completed at home is a step toward reducing our collective fuel consumption and easing the demand on transport energy, helping the nation navigate current global energy shifts with greater resilience,” she added.

With this initiative, Globe AT HOME reinforces its role as a trusted partner in nation‑building and collective resilience. More than just faster speeds and upgraded modems, it is about delivering connectivity that knows you, cares for you, and empowers you, helping families thrive in the face of challenges. By putting customers first and ensuring that every household can stay productive, entertained, and connected, Globe AT HOME enables Filipinos to keep going with Globe, no matter the circumstances.

For more information about Globe AT HOME Postpaid Plans and to learn how to upgrade, visit https://bit.ly/GFiberUpgrade

Shopee Philippines and PNP Eastern Police District Sign MOU to Empower Police Families Through E-Commerce

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Partnership extends Shopee's Tatak Pinoy program to support the livelihood and financial well-being of police personnel's families across Eastern Metro Manila

Jack Ng, Head of Commercial, Shopee Philippines, with the PNP Eastern Police District

Shopee Philippines and the Philippine National Police-Eastern Police District (PNP-EPD) have formalized a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at helping the families of police personnel build sustainable livelihoods through e-commerce. The collaboration brings Shopee’s flagship digital skills training initiative, the Tatak Pinoy program, directly to PNP, equipping police families with the tools and knowledge to start and grow online businesses.

The MOU reflects a shared commitment to the financial well-being of the men and women who serve on the front lines of public safety. Under this initiative, which PNP-EPD has named “Love at First Click: Negosyong Online para sa Pamilyang Pulis,” police families will be equipped with the digital skills and practical knowledge they need to establish and grow their online businesses through e-commerce.

"We have always believed that e-commerce can be a powerful equalizer and that belief extends beyond the marketplace," said Jack Ng, Head of Commercial, Shopee Philippines. "Through this partnership with PNP Eastern Police District, we want to give the families of our police personnel the same opportunities we are bringing to entrepreneurs across the country: real, practical skills that can help them build businesses and improve their quality of life."

The Shopee Tatak Pinoy MSME Roadshow, which has trained over 700 MSME sellers across 10 cities since 2025, will serve as the foundation of the collaboration. Police families will have access to hands-on training in online store setup, digital marketing, order fulfillment, and customer engagement. This is the same curriculum that has helped entrepreneurs transition from informal businesses to thriving online stores.

"Our partnership with Shopee reflects our belief that supporting our personnel goes beyond the badge. The PNP Eastern Police District has always been committed not only to the safety of our communities, but to the well-being of the men and women who protect them—and the families who stand behind them," said PNP-EPD Police Brigadier General Aden Lagradante. “When we give our personnel's families access to real livelihood opportunities, we are investing in their future and strengthening the foundation of our organization from within."

The partnership underscores Shopee's broader mission to build an inclusive digital economy, one that reaches not just traditional entrepreneurs but communities that stand to benefit most from access to e-commerce tools and training. As the Tatak Pinoy Roadshow continues its nationwide expansion, Shopee remains committed to finding new ways to bring digital opportunities to more Filipinos.

SM expands scholarships for uniformed personnel

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The SM Group is expanding scholarship support for uniformed personnel and their families, reinforcing its push for accessible quality education as part of its broader strategy to support inclusive growth.

Through its education institutions, National University (NU) and Asia Pacific College (APC), the group is widening access to senior high school, undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly for communities with limited access to higher education.

National University  Asia Pacific College 

National University (NU) Las Pinas 

NU recently renewed its partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), providing up to 2,250 scholarship slots across its 15 campuses for qualified dependents and active personnel. NU is present in various cities and provinces including Manila, Laguna, Pasay, Makati, Quezon City, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Pampanga, Bacolod, Pasig, Cebu, Las Pinas, and soon in Davao.

The partnership also includes access to internship, training, and development opportunities aimed at improving employability outcomes.

Scholars may avail of a 20% discount on tuition and miscellaneous fees across all programs. The partnership also provides full scholarship to dependents of KIA (killed-in-action) uniformed personnel.

“We honor the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers who gave their lives in service to the nation. As part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Educational Benefit System Office (AFP-EBSO) community of schools, we are proud to help carry their legacy forward by supporting their families, especially their children, in pursuing quality education through scholarship opportunities,” said Mr. Rolando T. Averilla, Senior Vice President for Corporate and International Relations for NU.

A daughter of a Philippine Navy Marines officer, Jamaica Casiano, an 18-year-old first year student at NU Manila, shared that she “chose National University because it is a UAAP school known for its quality education and strong academic reputation. Being part of NU motivates me to strive harder and achieve my goals. My scholarship has relieved me from the financial burden of paying for my education, allowing me to focus fully on my studies.”

Asia Pacific College (APC), part of the SM Group, has supported 1,283 scholars from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police since 2006, helping them pursue degrees in IT, engineering, and business, programs designed to strengthen skills and open pathways for career advancement.

“Providing access to relevant, industry‑aligned education is not just an aspiration for us. It is something we actively deliver,” said APC President Dr. Ma. Teresita ‘Tata’ Medado. “Through this partnership, we meaningfully honor the service of our uniformed personnel by equipping them with education that strengthens their careers, uplifts their families, and enables them to serve their communities with even greater impact.”

Among the scholars is Lt. Junior Grade Charles Nakpil of the Philippine Navy, who graduated from APC in 2016 with a degree in BS Electronics Engineering.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity APC gave me,” said Lt. Nakpil. “The education I received at Asia Pacific College did not only strengthen me as a public servant; it also gave my family greater security and pride; and allowed me to serve alongside my colleagues with deeper confidence and competence. What I learned continues to guide how I lead, how I work, and how I support the communities we are sworn to protect.”

Separately, SM Foundation continues to support uniformed personnel through healthcare initiatives, including the provision of medical equipment and the development of healthcare facilities.

These efforts form part of SM's long-term focus on education as a lever for workforce development and broader economic participation.

These Three Food Concepts are Redefining Dining as an Experience, How GCash for Business Helps Bring Those Experiences to Life

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The local food scene has never been more exciting than in the past few years. With new concepts emerging and a constant demand for something fresh, business owners are constantly thinking about how to ensure they’re set for success.

The modern dining experience is holistic, and the most successful food entrepreneurs understand that every detail shapes how a brand is remembered. Today, it’s not just about what’s on the plate. It’s about every touchpoint before and after the meal – from how customers first discover a restaurant online, to how they’re welcomed, how efficiently they’re served.

Yet across today’s food scene, the experience is constantly challenged by a recurring issue: friction and delays in payment. For three food entrepreneurs, solving this has become central to building their businesses.

Designing the full experience with the customer in mind

For one of Manila’s coolest new gelato shops, Kariton, designing the experience begins with putting the customer first.

“The name Kariton comes from the street carts many of us grew up with, so when people walk in, I want them to feel an instant sense of warmth and curiosity. It should feel approachable, not intimidating, but once you taste our gelato, you’ll realize that it’s made with serious technique and high-quality, local ingredients,” Leon Taira, Global Partner of Kariton, explains.

Kariton blends Filipino culture and nostalgia with a fun, Australian-inspired charm to use gelato as a shareable way to introduce local ingredients and culture. But because gelato melts quickly, service speed is a priority. “Very early on, we realized that small details matter a lot. Things like queue flow, signage, temperature control, portioning, and how staff greet you. At the same time, we don’t want to rush the customer, and we want to make sure we have time to tell them our story and the stories in each scoop.”

This challenge of balancing convenience with staying true to their concept is something modern food businesses, including Mariell Chuateco-Tanchip and her team at Taste & Tell, are navigating, especially after expanding from their home business into their first physical store.

“We realized dining is about the entire journey — ambiance, service, speed, and even how customers pay. Even if the food is excellent, a slow or stressful checkout can change the entire experience,” she says. “Generosity is important to us. We never want guests to feel like they’re getting less. We want them to leave full, happy, and excited to come back,” she adds.

This is echoed by Patrick Santos, owner of Nolita Joe’s, whose service philosophy marries the best of New York-style dining – which is fast-paced – without sacrificing quality. For him and his team, it’s about balancing efficiency with what guests expect and deserve.

“It’s not unusual for guests to either rave about or get annoyed at the small things, so everything should matter. Even something as seemingly minor as waiting a bit too long for the bill to be settled or having limited payment options can affect the whole experience,” she points out.

To address this friction, all three businesses have since integrated GCash for Business and tools like the new GCash SoundPay to improve both speed and service flow, especially at checkout. GCash SoundPay is a payment device that enables instant cashless transactions through QR payments with real-time voice confirmation, helping both staff and customers confirm payments instantly, without slowing down service.

“It’s made things a lot more seamless. Less friction, faster turnover, and less stress for the team. It really helps during peak hours. Faster transactions mean more turnover and better customer satisfaction,” he explains.

Embracing new tools as part of the experience

Across all three concepts, one shift is clear in modern dining: technology is an essential part of hospitality. For Leon, removing friction is key to repeat visits. “Before being able to provide cashless payment options, the common issues we would face included not having exact change and delays during peak hours. These small frictions add up and can slow down the entire service flow and ultimately affect the chances for return visits.”

For today’s young restaurateurs, success is no longer just about serving great food. It’s about the experience around it, which requires understanding customer behavior, mastering operations, and designing a seamless experience from start to finish. Throughout their journey, they have found support in solutions like GCash for Business.

If you’re a young business owner, getting started with GCash for Business is your first step into your easy era. Create an account on the GCash for Business Portal. You can get started as a merchant using just your verified GCash account of at least 12 months to qualify for a Starter Plan. Order a GCash SoundPay device, then wait for your email confirmation on your GCash SoundPay delivery. For more information on how GCash helps empower businesses and explore other products to help your business, visit GCash for Business.

PLDT Enterprise Bolsters Regional Network Through Partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp.

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Enabling local providers to deliver dependable connectivity and drive economic growth in the region 

PLDT Enterprise reinforces its regional footprint through its partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp., supporting island-wide digital services and reliable connectivity for local communities. From left to right: Sarah Jane Hongayo, Relationship Manager, PLDT Enterprise; Ma. Hazel Amoyan, Customer Relationship Management Head – Visayas, PLDT Enterprise; Raul C. Villaver - CEO & President, Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp.; Elvie R. Villaver - Corporate Secretary, Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp.

Siquijor, Philippines — PLDT Enterprise continues to reinforce its regional presence across the Philippines through its long-standing partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp., supporting the cable operator’s growth and enabling reliable digital services for subscribers across Siquijor Island.

The collaboration highlights how enterprise-grade connectivity can help regional service providers overcome geographic limitations, expand operations, and deliver stable digital services in island communities.

 A Commitment to Supporting Cable Operators Nationwide

PLDT Enterprise remains committed to supporting cable operators and regional connectivity providers across the country. By delivering dedicated internet and Ethernet transport solutions, PLDT Enterprise helps improve network performance, expand service coverage, support digital transformation initiatives, and enable enterprise-grade data transport.

“Through our continued, growing, and evolving partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp., we demonstrate how PLDT Enterprise supports regional providers with scalable connectivity solutions that enable growth and service reliability,” said Ma. Hazel Amoyan, Customer Relationship Management Head – Visayas, PLDT Enterprise. “We remain committed to helping businesses across the regions operate efficiently and deliver consistent digital services to their communities.”

Representatives from PLDT Enterprise and Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. strengthen their long-standing partnership to enhance connectivity and digital access across Siquijor Island.

Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. is a regional cable service provider delivering television and digital connectivity services to residents and businesses throughout Siquijor Island. The company has steadily expanded its subscriber base and infrastructure capabilities through continuous technology upgrades and strategic partnerships.

Addressing Geographic and Operational Challenges

Operating in an island province presents unique connectivity challenges. Limited infrastructure options, complex deployment environments, and increasing subscriber demand required scalable, high-capacity solutions to maintain service quality.

PLDT Enterprise began its partnership with Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. in 2016 when the company subscribed to an iGate leased line. At the time, connectivity relied on Smart’s Base Transceiver Station (BTS) infrastructure to serve the island location.

 As subscriber demand grew, the partnership evolved. With PLDT’s fiber rollout to Siquijor in 2022, the client gained access to higher-capacity connectivity and improved reliability. Today, Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. subscribes to iGate Premium service and this year, it successfully deployed a Metro E-Line transport service connecting Siquijor to its mainland content source.

 From Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp.’s Raul Villaver, President and CEO, shared that the collaboration has played a key role in the company’s expansion. “Our partnership with PLDT Enterprise has allowed us to upgrade our infrastructure as our subscriber base continues to grow. With improved capacity and stability, we are better equipped to deliver reliable digital television, broadband, and data services to customers across Siquijor Island.”

Enabling High-Capacity Content Delivery and Operational Continuity

The newly deployed Metro E-Line transport service enables high-capacity content delivery between Siquijor and mainland source infrastructure. This supports seamless transmission of high-bandwidth content such as HD channels, streaming services, and data-intensive applications.

Representatives from PLDT Enterprise and Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. strengthen their long-standing partnership to enhance connectivity and digital access across Siquijor Island.

The upgraded infrastructure improves network stability and service reliability for subscribers across Siquijor Island while strengthening operational continuity through enterprise-grade infrastructure designed for carrier-level uptime.

With scalable infrastructure in place, Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. has been able to continuously expand its subscriber base without network performance limitations.

As regional connectivity demands continue to increase, the partnership between PLDT Enterprise and Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Corp. reflects a shared commitment to resilience, scalability, and long-term growth—strengthening digital access across island communities and reinforcing PLDT Enterprise’s presence across the Philippines.

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, visit [UTM]

 

From Intent to Impact: LCF Calls for Strategic CSR on Its 30th Anniversary

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Thirty years into championing corporate citizenship, the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) called on businesses to treat corporate social responsibility (CSR) not as a side effort but as part of it's operations to ensure shared value that is proactive and responsive to social and environmental crises today.

LCF made the call at a press launch on April 16, where it formally announced the theme for this year’s CSR Conference and Expo: Adapt. Align. Accelerate. The theme is the 30th Anniversary of the League that is championing responsible business and strategic philanthropy in the Philippines.

LCF marks 30 years by raising the bar, challenging Philippine businesses to move from well-intentioned programs to CSR that is authentic, strategic, and embedded in organizational identity. [L-R: Reginald “Rej” M. Andal, Executive Director of Manila Water Foundation; Edric Calma, Vice Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations and the Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.; Roberta Lopez-Feliciano, Managing Director, ABS-CBN Foundation; Eleanor P. “Lingling” Lansang, Vice President of SM Foundation; Jeffrey “Jeff” Tarayao, President of One Meralco Foundation; Kana Manglapus, Deputy Executive Director of the JVR Foundation; Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations; Melody M. Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments; Katherine Anne A. Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of the Ayala Foundation; Atty. Norman Roland E. Ocana III, Government Affairs Director and Territory Sustainability Leader of Schneider Electric Philippines; and Philip Francisco U. Dy, President of the Metrobank Foundation]

"Thirty years in, the question is no longer whether businesses should invest in communities. Rather, it is whether those investments are built to last and designed to solve," said Shem Jose Garcia, Chairperson of LCF and Executive Director of Vivant Foundation, Inc. He also considered the league’s longevity not only as a milestone, but also as a call to the sector to “raise the bar that it established.”

At the same event, LCF unveiled a new logo — a multicolored pinwheel reflecting its belief that impact is never created alone, with each color representing the foundation's diverse sectors and advocacies, and the gradient transitions symbolizing the convergence of perspectives and resources.

The 2026 CSR Conference will be held during the CSR Week on July 1-2, 2026 at Bayanihan Center, Pasig, Metro Manila, while the CSR Expo will be held on October 1-2, 2026 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Makati City, Metro Manila. The theme, as LCF frames it, aims to showcase the corporate sector's capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing world, align their programs with genuine community needs, and accelerate impact through collective action, with the end goal of raising the overall standard of CSR in the Philippines.

Against this backdrop, the 2026 conference challenges the corporate sector to respond strategically, collaboratively, and with measurable outcomes. The call comes at a time when the Philippines is experiencing multiple crises—rising costs of living, energy shocks, climate-related disasters, and persistent poverty—that are demanding more from the private sector than one-off programs.

In his welcome remarks, Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations, introduced this year's conference theme—Adapt. Align. Accelerate.—underscoring that good corporate citizenship demands constant adaptation: rethinking models, reflecting company purpose, and aligning with standards to deliver outcomes that address real community needs.

"The world has been changing rapidly and CSR must change with it," said Garcia. "What we need to evolve is to align our programs with real needs and accelerate our impact where it matters most."

Still, Garcia pointed out that achieving that impact takes more than any single business or sector can do on its own.

Leaders of LCF emphasized in the panel discussion the shift in CSR from isolation to collaboration — aligning shared strengths, common metrics, and a unified purpose to drive lasting impact. [L-R: Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations; Melody M. Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments; Katherine Anne A. Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of the Ayala Foundation]

Katherine Anne Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of Ayala Foundation, Inc., echoed this sentiment, as she looked forward to what this year’s conference could unlock for the sector. “I think [success would look like having] more collaboration. We often take for granted the fact that we are members of this network and that we're all friends. But I feel like there's so much more opportunity to actually do things together.”

This collaboration, as Melody Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, noted, should also reach beyond familiar circles and engage the expertise of those closest to the problems being solved. “For CSR to be relevant, you have to make sure that you have experts and scientists to back up most of your programs,” she said.

As part of its commitment to elevating CSR excellence, LCF will present the Guild Awards during in June 30. The Awards will recognize outstanding initiatives by its members that have significantly impacted communities. The Medal of Recognition will be accorded to non-LCF members whose work has made a difference across seven thematic areas: Arts and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Education, Environment, Enterprise Development, Financial Inclusion, and Health.

Moreover, the Conference will provide a space for businesses, national government organizations, academe, youth groups, and government agencies to engage and collaborate around CSR innovations.

Members of LCF “raising the bar” in CSR together at the AIM Conference Center, Benavidez Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City, Metro Manila

LCF represents 96 corporate members and foundations across the Philippines, making it the country's primary network for responsible business and strategic philanthropy. As it marks its 30th anniversary, the organization renews its push to raise the collective standard of corporate citizenship in the country.

"At 30, we are not here to celebrate what has been done, we are here to challenge what comes next. Beyond the legacy we have built, we must ask ourselves: what more can we do to create impact that is not only good, but necessary?” Garcia said.

The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), elects new officers

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The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), an organization of showbiz editors, columnists, photographers, publicists, and talent managers, has elected a new set of officers for 2026-2028.

The new officers are: Noel Orsal (President), Edilberto "Obette" Serrano (Vice President), Audie "See" Ochagabia (Secretary), Sany Chua (Treasurer), Nimfa Chua (Asst. Treasurer), Nonie Nicasio (Auditor), Danny Vibas, and Adjes Carreon (PRO).

Orsal was the organization's assistant treasurer before his election as president. He finished Medical Technology though his heart's desire then was to be in showbiz, and, thus took classes in photography, singing, and Nippongo (the Japanese language), hoping any of those skills will lead into a showbiz break. In a few years, he made into entertainment media as a photographer. With encouragement from editors, he found out he could write and soon was submitting not only photos written mainly in Filipino. Showbiz opened other doors for him, such as PR and production management, acting in Filipino and international films, and the freedom to choose between being a freelancer and a regular employee.

The new vice president, Edilberto “Obette” Serrano, has dedicated 40 years to tri-media (print, television, and radio) information dissemination. Known as “Oohlala Obette,” he is an accountant by training who transitioned into showbiz journalism and later public service information.

He began his career writing for Kislap fan magazine before contributing to major publications like People’s Journal and People’s Tonight. In his tenth year in showbiz, he joined ABS-CBN as a radio-TV reporter for TV Patrol and Radyo Patrol on DZMM, while continuing his print work and eventually appearing on programs such as Bandila, Balitang K (now Rated Korina), and Alas Singko Y Media (now Umagang Kay Ganda).

It's Ochagabia's first time to be elected officer (Secretary) though he is a "veteran" entertainment media practitioner whose stints include directing concerts of teen idol Sheryl Cruz abroad, and being talent caster/coordinator in top-rating TV shows. Ochagabia studied at the Novaliches (Quezon City) Novitiate, a seminary, for two years and then moved on to the University of Sto. Tomas where he took up AB in Economics. He eventually joined the entertainment world as a writer in fan magazines and general interest tabloids. His familiarity with showbiz idols and their managers, Ochagabia decided to venture into talent casting and talent managing which is what he is largely engaged in to this day.

New treasurer Sany Chua is a photojournalist on the entertainment beat mainly identified with ABS-CBN for some decades now. He is a Mechanical Engineering graduate and joined TEAM a few years ago.

Like Ochagabia and Sany, it is Nimfa's first time to be mandated as a TEAM officer. Like them, too, her college education was not geared towards showbiz: Banking & Finance. A network of friendship led her to photography and a dynamic involvement with ABS-CBN as a professional photographer.

Nicasio, elected Auditor, was TEAM president for some years and also the organization's founder. He took up BS Marine Transportation but found himself drawn to journalism, particularly to sports reportage and public service. But then he discovered entertainment writing and found it similarly fulfilling.

Only the elected new TEAM PROs Carreon and Vibas earned college diplomas in Mass Communication (Carreon) and Journalism (Vibas). Both Carreon and Vibas are seasoned entertainment journos.

The officers of TEAM were formally inducted last week by Hon. Gov. Daniel Fernando and Hon. Vice-Gov. Alex Castro at their offices in the Bulacan Provincial Hall, marking the official start of their duties.

Luzon Institutional Partners lead the charge toward a digitally inclusive Philippines at GCash Digital Excellence Awards 2025

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The 5th GCash Digital Excellence Awards (GDEA) drew the curtain on another milestone evening for Philippine governance, spotlighting the local government units and national agencies that are actively reshaping how Filipinos access public services faster, safer, and entirely cashless.

Held at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, the ceremony gathered awardees under this year's theme: "Recognizing Digital Pioneers: Empowering the Public Sector for a Modern, Inclusive Philippines." Of the 45 awardees recognized nationwide, 32 came from Luzon, a testament to the region's growing commitment to digital governance and financial modernization.

Through the digital payment infrastructure of GCash, these institutions have made tangible strides in building government services that are not only efficient but accessible to every citizen, regardless of location or circumstance.

Leading the charge in the Ilocos Region, the Bauang Public Market of the Municipality of Bauang, La Union, was honored for championing sustainable financial digitalization across public market transactions, making cashless payments a daily reality for vendors and buyers alike.

In Cagayan Valley, the Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District earned recognition for improving citizen access to water-related services through secure digital payment channels and streamlined online service options.

Central Luzon emerged as a strong cluster of awardees, with five institutions receiving citations: the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, the City Government of Baliwag and its Baliwag Public Market in Bulacan, the Municipality of Morong, and the Provincial Government of Bataan. Across urban centers and provincial communities alike, these LGUs have rolled out digital payment systems for local fees, utilities, and market transactions while expanding their online service footprints.

Also recognized for Digital Transformation Excellence in Utility Efficiency was the Metropolitan Naga Water District, underscoring how utilities are embracing digital tools to improve service delivery. Meanwhile, CALABARZON contributed four recognized institutions to the roster: the City Government of Santa Rosa in Laguna, the City Government of Imus in Cavite, the Municipality of Tanay, and the Pililla Water District in Rizal, each implementing traceable, citizen-friendly digital systems that simplify access to government services.

Rounding out Luzon’s awardees are the Municipality of Mauban, Quezon, and its Mauban Public Market, the City of Lucena, and the Provincial Government of Quezon, and Antonio L. Raymundo, Jr., President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines – Bataan Chapter, who were recognized for their efforts to expand online payment channels and digitize public services across provincial towns—bringing modern governance closer to the communities that need it most.

The ceremony also recognized several national government agencies for advancing digital transformation and financial inclusion in public service. The Department of Transportation – Metro Rail Transit Line 3 received the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award for expanding digital payments in commuter services. The Land Bank of the Philippines, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation were named Champions for Digital Advocacy and Connectivity for widening access to digital financial services. The Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) earned the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award for its long-standing digital initiatives, while the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Philippine Statistics Authority, and the Bureau of the Treasury were cited as Catalysts in Financial Inclusion for strengthening digital access and transparency in public financial systems. The Department of Trade and Industry also received the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award for integrating digital platforms into services that support Filipino businesses.

Mynt Chairman Ernest Cu credited the partnerships that made progress possible across these communities. "2025 was truly a year where GCash doubled down on its commitment through partnership with the government in advancing digitalization in our country. We are moving beyond ear access to delivering world-class innovations that people use daily. We could not have reached these heights alone. Together, we have brought strengthened fiscal management, streamlined disbursements, and connections to the LGU," he said.

GCash VP and Head of Public Sector Cleo Santos also added, "We are one with the government in the mission to serve every Filipino. Everything we do is anchored in our shared vision of finance for all. Every leader here tonight is a testament to the belief that no Filipino should be left behind in the digital economy,"

The GDEA's award categories were designed to meet institutions where they are in their digitalization journey. First-year adopters were recognized through the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award, while the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award honored agencies that have demonstrated sustained growth in digital transactions from 2022 to 2025.

Sector-specific recognition was given through awards for Digital Transformation Excellence in Healthcare, Education, and Utility Efficiency, while the Catalyst in Financial Inclusion Award celebrated programs that meaningfully expanded financial access for underserved Filipinos.

Long-standing partnerships were honored through the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award, which is reserved for agencies with at least five years of collaboration with GCash. The Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization for Public Market pushes for governments' call for cashless payments and payment options. These Public Markets maintain at least 70% active vendors using GCash as a payment option to its customers.

The numbers underscore the momentum. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reports that over 97% of government-to-government and government-to-employee transactions are now digitally processed, while retail digital payments now account for more than 57% of total transaction volume nationwide.

Setting the bar for what digital transformation must achieve, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director General Ernesto Perez stressed that results must ultimately be felt by citizens.

"Digital excellence within government rests on tangible results experienced by individuals and enterprises. It is seen in faster transactions, simplified requirements, dependable payment channels, and platforms that reach communities regardless of geography or circumstance. Through this initiative, GCash and ARTA continue to champion the goals by promoting ease of doing business, enhancing digital payment systems, and fostering stronger collaboration between government and the private sector," he noted.

By putting the spotlight on Luzon's digital trailblazers, the 5th GDEA reinforces that the path to a modern, inclusive Philippines is already being built, one LGU, one transaction, and one empowered citizen at a time

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

PLDT Enterprise, Cisco highlight how smart networks are reshaping real-time operations across industries

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Enabling more resilient operations and reduced downtime through industry-leading connectivity

Manufacturing, logistics, and pharmaceutical sectors are under increasing pressure to operate faster, coordinate across multiple sites, and respond to disruptions in real time. However, many still rely on fragmented systems that limit visibility and slow decision-making.

To address these challenges, PLDT Enterprise, the B2B arm of PLDT Inc. and market leader in enterprise connectivity and ICT solutions in the Philippines, in collaboration with Cisco, is working with organizations to strengthen the network infrastructure that supports daily operations.

“Connectivity today is no longer just about keeping systems online: It’s about enabling businesses to respond in real time, operate securely across multiple environments, and scale without added complexity,” said Jay Lagdameo, PLDT Enterprise Vice President and Head of Domestic Enterprise Business - Regional and Commercial. “By working closely with partners like Cisco, we’re helping organizations build the kind of network foundation that supports how industries are evolving today.”

At a recent industry session with leaders from manufacturing, logistics, and related sectors, discussions led by Cisco and PLDT Enterprise focused on how high-performance and resilient network architectures support cross-site coordination, strengthen system reliability, and enable faster, more informed decision-making.

Enabling industry use cases through integrated solutions

The session featured PLDT Enterprise's range of connectivity and ICT solutions designed to support evolving operational requirements across industries. Built on PLDT’s extensive nationwide fiber infrastructure and backed by resilient wireless networks, these solutions are built to deliver for mission-critical operations.

Among these is its Managed SD-WAN solution, which delivers strong connectivity resiliency for industries with highly distributed operations such as logistics, FMCG, and retail. By combining wired and wireless internet links into a unified network, it ensures continuous connectivity across warehouses, distribution hubs, stores, and remote sites.

Intelligent traffic steering and automatic failover allow seamless switching between fiber, broadband, and 5G connections—keeping operations running even during link disruptions through multi-layered redundancy for business continuity.

With centralized management and real-time visibility, businesses can maintain operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and deliver a consistent customer experience across all locations.

From fragmented systems to real-time operations

Traditional setups often rely on siloed systems, making it difficult for teams to access accurate, up-to-date information across locations. This can result in production delays, inefficient inventory management, and slower response to disruptions across the supply chain. Many organizations also face challenges integrating emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, and cloud-based platforms into existing systems, limiting their ability to fully realize the benefits of digital transformation and maintain operational continuity at scale.

With more advanced network capabilities, businesses can move toward integrated environments where data flows seamlessly across operations. This supports use cases such as real-time tracking of goods, automated workflows in production environments, and more efficient coordination between warehouses, distribution hubs, and frontline teams.

Industry collaboration, integrated digital transformation

The collaboration between PLDT Enterprise and Cisco underscores how modern network infrastructure has evolved from a supporting function into a critical enabler of real-time visibility, operational control, and business continuity. This ultimately helps businesses maintain performance and resilience as they adopt more data-driven and automated processes.

Furthermore, this initiative builds on PLDT Enterprise’s integrated ecosystem - bringing together connectivity, wireless, cloud, data center, platform, and global capabilities that are anchored on PLDT Group’s superior network foundation - to help businesses simplify operations and scale with greater confidence.

To learn how PLDT Enterprise helps organizations across industries build more agile and resilient operations through end-to-end solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-cisco-smart-networks-q1-2026-pr