COMCO Mundo concludes its Mission 2024 with the launch of landmark advocacy projects with IABC Philippines, Save the Children and other NGOs

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Global award-winning and powerhouse communications group COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises is ending the year strong with its commitment to its Mission 2024 initiative through the launch of milestone advocacy projects with various industry and non-government organizations (NGOs).

This initiative highlights two major projects: the Save the Children #LahatDapatSafe campaign, which promotes child and family safety during natural disasters, especially around the holiday season and The Communications Olympiad, in partnership with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, a training and education program for the skills development of the next generation of communications practitioners across the country.

This was announced during the Movie Night with COMCOmigos 2024, COMCO Mundo's traditional holiday treat for its community comprised of media, bloggers, content creators, influencers, brand representatives, industry colleagues, and members of the Camp COMCO Alumni Society. With Century Tuna as major sponsor; Century Tuna Nuggets, MIDEA, SAMSUNG and URATEX Monoblock as sponsors; ASEANA, Lamoiyan Corporation, LENOVO, Sunlife Global Solutions and Teleperformance as supporters; IABC Philippines and Save the Children as industry partners; and SEA Wave Pop Culture Magazine and SEA Wave Pilipinas as media partners, this year's Movie Night with COMCOmigos screened the highly anticipated movie adaptation of the musical, “Wicked”.

#LahatDapatSafe Campaign with Save the Children

The #LahatDapatSafe Campaign by Save the Children aims to mobilize the public to support emergency relief efforts for natural calamities and promote disaster preparedness, particularly during the holiday season when intense tropical storms are more commonly worsened by climate change. Through donations and active participation, supporters of the cause can provide emergency kits and living essentials such as food, water, and shelter, ready to be distributed to vulnerable families. Working with them can help children achieve resilience and support in education to ensure that their development continues even after being affected by natural disasters. COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises partnered with Save the Children to intensify the appeal for support for this much needed initiative.

Interested organizations and individuals may visit http://bit.ly/LahatDapatSafe to know more about the campaign and how to extend their support.

The Communications Olympiad with IABC Philippines

COMCO Mundo, together with its training and education unit COMCO School of Communications and advocacy arm Citizen COMCO Advocacy Movement, has partnered with premier business communications organization IABC Philippines to formally mount the Communications Olympiad. The initiative is a learning program that will provide a platform for collegiate students across the country to learn more about the professional practice of communications, adapt the necessary knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the industry, and how to use their roles as next generation of communicators to address important social issues and support causes that matter.

The Communications Olympiad will formally open in January 2025 with an inaugural theme anchored on environment and sustainability, a cause fully championed by IABC Philippines. The initiative will hold a series of roadshows, webinars and a summit for participating schools and students of Communication Arts, Mass Communication, Advertising, Public Relations, Marketing Communications, Journalism and other related disciplines. It will culminate in an actual Olympic-like competition for communications where schools and their students will vie for bronze, silver and gold medals for different categories, and the Grand Championship for the overall winner. Interested schools, students, sponsors and organizations may email communicationsolympiad@comcomundo.com or tune in to the Facebook page of COMCO Mundo or IABC Philippines for more information and updates.

Upcoming Projects with Make-A-Wish, Philippine Eagle Foundation and COMCO’s Southeast Asia Affiliate Network

Citizen COMCO has been at the forefront of the group’s various advocacies such as children, youth and education; wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability; indigenous culture and national heritage; social entrepreneurship; and the Southeast Asian integration, since 2016. The team’s advocacy arm has made several partnerships with reputable non-government and development organizations that shared long-lasting impact to its beneficiaries. This coming 2025, COMCO is onboarding two more organizations to its roster of NGO partners to launch and mount landmark advocacy projects. They are the Philippine Eagle Foundation which aims to provide ecological conservation efforts that encompass wildlife protection and environmental reinforcements, and Make-A-Wish Foundation which is focused on supporting the psychosocial well-being of terminally ill children and fostering their healing.

Together with COMCO Mundo’s affiliate network in Southeast Asia such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, the coalition of independent communications agencies formed and led by COMCO is also embarking on a regionwide advocacy program that will help address important social issues affecting the region and support causes that will drive its mission of #OneSoutheastAsia integration. The coalition will have a summit in Manila in early 2025 to reinforce this commitment and fully rollout the group’s projects.

Mr. Ferdinand L. Bondoy, COMCO Mundo’s Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Strategic Communications Counsel / Partner and Co-Founder

“Igniting social change is at the forefront of our work and is part of our DNA. From supporting children on their right to safety this holiday to using communication as a tool for sustainable action, we work as a team to provide the best livable standard that does not only benefit us but impact the world we live in. We will continue the cause and keep our battle cry of Mission 2024 heard and seen, now and beyond, making a difference through Meaningful Storytelling, in which the COMCO brand is known for,” said Mr. Ferdinand L. Bondoy, COMCO Mundo’s Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Strategic Communications Counsel / Partner and Co-Founder.

Stay updated with COMCO Mundo by visiting www.comcomundo.com or following

fb.com/comcomundo on Facebook, linkedin.com/company/comcomundo on LinkedIn, and

@comcomundo on Instagram.

Golden Haven Celebrates the 1st Anniversary of Its Pet Crematorium, Announces Expansion

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Golden Haven, a leader in memorial care services in the Philippines, celebrates the first anniversary of its pet crematorium this October 2024. Known for providing dignified memorial care to Filipino families, Golden Haven’s comprehensive services include memorial parks, columbariums, chapels, crematoriums, and mortuary services. Expanding into pet cremation, Golden Haven has now brought its compassionate approach to honoring beloved pets, making it the first memorial care provider in the country to venture into pet memorialization.

Golden Haven celebrates the first anniversary of its pet crematorium this October 2024, its compassionate approach to honoring beloved pets.

The pet crematorium journey began at Golden Haven’s flagship branch in Las Piñas, situated along the C5 Road Extension in Global South. As the initial site for this service, it established a warm, respectful environment where pet families could honor their departed fur babies with the same dignity and care that Golden Haven extends to human memorials. Within a year, the service has seen an overwhelming demand, underscoring the essential need for respectful and loving farewells for pets.

Golden Haven is the first memorial care provider in the country to venture into pet memorialization, through its Pet Crematorium.

Recognizing the importance of pet cremation for Filipino families, Golden Haven is launching new pet crematoriums across the nation by year’s end. This expansion ensures more communities can access these services, making it easier for families to honor their pets without the stress of traveling long distances. “As we celebrate this milestone, we’ve seen how vital it is to support families grieving their pets. Our aim is to provide comfort and closure while honoring pets in a dignified manner,” shares Ms. Analyn Anero, Division Head of Golden Haven Chapels and Crematorium.

The pet crematorium service also features thoughtful touches, including free pickup within a specific radius, and options for families to hold a viewing for their pets in a comforting, serene space. Pets are gently bathed and prepared with care, providing families a final, loving memory before their beloved pets cross the Rainbow Bridge.

Golden Haven’s seamless service network for pet cremation extends to partnerships with veterinary clinics, pet grooming providers, and pet accessory shops, creating a supportive community for pet parents. In line with its dedication to responsible pet parenting, Golden Haven even organizes an annual “Pawsome Day” event, celebrating the bond between families and pets—a tradition established even before launching its pet crematorium services.

In its commitment to compassionate service, Golden Haven also facilitates the donation of items left by fur parents, redistributing these belongings to animal welfare organizations. This thoughtful initiative, combined with affordable service options, underscores Golden Haven’s mission to support pet families across every step of their journey.

Golden Haven’s holistic approach to memorial care for both people and pets, combined with its continuous drive for innovation, further solidifies its status as the leader in the industry—a position that has earned it the title of the “Gold Standard in Memorial Care.” For more information about Golden Haven’s pet cremation services and other offerings, please visit www.goldenhaven.com.ph, reach out via social media, or contact 09998864176 / 09190790205.

Globe rises to 61st rank on Statista’s list of top PH employers

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Globe continues to solidify its position as one of the Philippines' top employers, making a remarkable leap of 112 spots to secure 61st place on the prestigious Statista Best Employers 2025 list, which ranks companies with a workforce of at least 250 employees.

The annual Best Employers list, compiled by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and German market research firm Statista, identifies the country’s top 300 companies and government agencies based on employee perceptions. It assesses whether organizations truly meet the expectations set through their public image, using direct feedback from employees.

“We are proud of this recognition, which reflects our ongoing efforts to cultivate a people-first culture. At Globe, we create an environment where employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the company’s success. When our people feel empowered, the whole organization benefits,” said Renato Jiao, Globe’s Chief Human Resource Officer.

Globe is committed to fostering a workplace culture that emphasizes employee wellness, professional growth, and inclusivity. Its swift climb from Rank 217th in 2023 to Rank 173rd in 2024, and now to Rank 61st showcases its efforts to enhance the work environment and create a more supportive atmosphere for employees.

For the 2025 list, Statista surveyed over 16,000 employees from more than 2,000 companies across 28 industries. Employees provided both direct and indirect recommendations for their employers and others within their sector, evaluating key factors such as how companies treat their people and how they are as corporate citizens, making this ranking one of the most comprehensive in the Philippines.

The telco leader’s inclusion in Statista’s Best Employers list reflects its focus on people, policies, and processes. This recognition aligns with the numerous awards Globe has received for excellence in human resource management in 2024, further underscoring its dedication to continuous improvement in all areas of its workplace.

Globe remains steadfast in its mission to provide a dynamic work environment that nurtures employee growth and development. The company invites top talent to explore career opportunities and become part of its innovative and supportive workplace.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Living high and living it up in Altafina by Vista Land

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South Cotabato: Here, bounty and beauty come together

Perched majestically on the coastline that hugs Sarangani Bay, General Santos City, the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, exudes a more dynamic and progressive vibe. With an economy anchored primarily on the agriculture and fishing industries, GenSan, as it is affectionately called, also covers much ground in tourism. The land formerly known as Dadiangas, and now named for General Paulino Santos, who brought over Christians from Luzon and the Visayas to settle in the area, boasts the largest airport in Mindanao as well as the Makar Wharf, one of the country's most modern international seaports.

The city also earned itself the nickname Boom City of the South, owing to its vast exports and the influx of manufacturing and business process outsourcing (BPO) firms. But despite the dynamic and future-think reputation, GenSan is loved for its many festivals that parade pride in their art and traditions and for some of the most exquisite scenery and beaches in the country.

In honor of the coastal location of GenSan, Vista Land, through its collection of master planned communities called Vista Estates, is constructing a micro city inspired by the sun-soaked outlook and inclination of America's Finest City, San Diego, California. The striking similarities between these dynamic cities lend themselves to the master planning of a vibrant estate development in Southern Mindanao.

San Diego hugs the Pacific Ocean, while GenSan borders the picturesque Sarangani Bay. Both cities enjoy year-round warm weather and have flourishing fishing industries. They are also popular tourist destinations, offering incredible scenic beauty and recreational activities. San Diego is renowned for its beaches, parks, and museums, while GenSan is famous for white sand beaches, waterfalls, dive sites, and natural attractions. Interestingly, San Diego is known as the Tuna Capital of the World.

Altafina features a selection of residential possibilities, office spaces, soothing open parks, landscaped walkways and avenues, and commercial centers.

Enjoy the exhilaration of San Diego in Altafina

Altafina is a portmanteau of alta, meaning high, and fina, meaning fine. The name calls to mind images of living high and living it up. It exudes the joy and fearlessness that the metropolis is designed to capture––and offers its residents and visitors. The shopping in Altafina will measure up to GenSan's reputation as a top shopping hub. Naturally, amazing food and beverage choices follow. The estate is inspired by the dynamic groove the beach town of San Diego radiates alongside amenities and today's smart building technology.

As San Diego and GenSan are proud of the diversity of the cultures, adventures, and opportunities they play host to, Altafina features a selection of residential possibilities, building architecture, and public space design. There will be office spaces, soothing open parks, landscaped walkways and avenues, and commercial centers.

Altafina’s initial offering, Altafina Residences, features vertical abodes for families, professionals, or those who prefer to live near places of work.

Condominium complexes and neighborly horizontal communities will dot the development. Its first offering, Altafina Residences, features vertical abodes for families, professionals, or those who prefer to live near places of work. Rising seven to 12 storeys per tower creates medium densities, allowing for privacy and breathing space. Each tower provides a selection of one—and two-bedroom residences equipped with smart technology and security and safety features. In Altafina, the options are as diverse, attractive, and exciting as San Diego and GenSan have always been.

Vista Land: Pioneering excellence in property development

As the holding company of the housing ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land is primarily engaged in developing horizontal properties, master-planned communities, and the construction of vertical residences in the Philippines' key growth areas.

Altafina is a portmanteau of alta, meaning high, and fina, meaning fine. The name calls to mind images of living high and living it up.

Vista Land is constructing a micro city inspired by the sun-soaked outlook and inclination of America's Finest City, San Diego, California.

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land and its day-to-day operations and is the secret to its success. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents, as well as delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders, has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate's continuous evolution.

Learn more about Vista Land developments nationwide. Visit www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

Robinsons Appliances Opens in Ayala Malls Vermosa

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Robinsons Appliances, a trusted name in appliances and gadgets shopping, celebrated the grand opening of one of its biggest branches at Ayala Malls Vermosa. This new location in Imus, Cavite promises to elevate the shopping experience of those residing South of Metro Manila. Boasting curated selections from the country’s leading and most innovative brands, the new branch opens its doors last October 24 together with Robinsons Appliances’ most cherished partners, officers from Ayala Malls and representatives from the local government.

From left to right: Mr. Stanley, C Operations Chief Operating Officer of RRHI; Mr. Mike Sy, Operations Lead of Ayala Malls Vermosa; Ms. Ma. Cristina De Asis, General Manager of Ayala Malls Vermosa; Mr. Kazuya Higami, President of Panasonic Mfg. Philippines Corp.; Ms. Gladys Uy, AVP and General Manager of VST-ECS; Mr. James Ng President of Finden Technologies, Inc.; Mr. Jovito Santos, Group General Manager of Robinsons Appliances; Mr. Peter Chen, President of TCL Philippines; Hon. Tito Monzon, Councilor of Imus Cavite; Ms. Sue Ong Lim, Managing Director of Acer Philippines; Mr. Isaias Ariel Fermin, CEO of Concepcion Industrial Corp.; Mr. Chris Sioco, Sales Director of Excellence Appliance Tech Inc.; Mr. Ramon Medina, Home Appliances - Business Unit Head of Samsung Electronics Philippines; Mr. Hamm Katipunan, Head of Operations for Ayala Malls; Madame Robina Gokongwei Pe, CEO and President of RRHI

As one of Robinsons Appliances’ largest branches, the Ayala Malls Vermosa store spans a generous space filled with state-of-the-art appliances and modern technology from brands like Midea, Samsung and Panasonic. Each of these brands has a dedicated zone within the store, offering customers a unique and interactive experience where they can explore the latest kitchen, home entertainment, and smart home solutions. The creative displays of the brands will allow customers to envision how the appliances will fit and function in their space.

The grand opening drew enthusiastic crowd of customers excited to take advantage of the exclusive discounts and freebies and join the different activities at the new branch. They are welcomed with incredible deals on high-quality products that cater to their modern living needs.

Beyond product offerings, Robinsons Appliances has designed the Ayala Malls Vermorsa store to prioritize a smooth and enjoyable shopping journey. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide customers through the store providing helpful advice on products, multiple payment methods are also available plus a convenient location at the ground level with access to parking and driveway. With organized zones for different categories such as washing machines, home appliances, home entertainment, aircare, kitchen appliances and gadgets, customers can easily browse through the store to find appliances and gadgets tailored to their specific tastes and needs.

Robinsons Appliances at Ayala Malls Vermosa is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Discover a world of high-quality appliances and gadgets, exceptional customer service, and exclusive brand experiences all under one roof.

Teleperformance in the Philippines unveils flagship Innovation & Solutions Hub

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Global business services provider Teleperformance (TP) in the Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to advancing digital innovation and transformation with the opening of its first immersive Innovation & Solutions Hub in SM Aura in Taguig City.

Chief Executive Officer of Teleperformance in the Philippines Rahul Jolly welcomes guests to try out the many high-tech solutions demonstrating TP’s technological offerings.

The state-of-the-art facility showcases TP Microservices, the company’s newest extensive suite of cloud-based services that seamlessly integrate advanced AI capabilities into clients’ ecosystems, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and immersive training spaces. The hub is both a demonstration center for TP's latest technological offerings and a collaborative space where organizations can explore emerging technologies reshaping the IT-BPM industry.

“I'm personally excited about TP's Innovation and Solutions Hub in the Philippines, as it furthers our commitment to our people – our customer experts and especially to our clients. As we continue to invest not just in new technologies, but in fostering an overall innovation culture across the organization, we're better positioned to develop and implement breakthrough solutions for the benefit of our customers,” said Chief Executive Officer of Teleperformance in the Philippines, Rahul Jolly during the launch.

The Innovation & Solutions Hub builds on the strategic synergy of emotional intelligence (EI) and artificial intelligence (AI) across TP’s operations, giving clients a High-Tech, High-Touch, and High-Standards advantage in delivering superior customer experiences. With emotions influencing 60% to 80% of human decisions, TP’s customer experts are able to deliver personalized solutions that address the frustrations, and pain points that customers often feel, a holistic solution powered by EI, enabled by AI.

“We are leveraging AI and EI combined with a high-touch approach in our microservices solutions suite to achieve multiple goals: making our customer experts' lives easier through more efficient processes, reducing friction, and providing enhanced digital customer experiences (CX). Together with our clients, we co-create tailored, industry-specific solutions that address unique vertical challenges. Afterall, TP at its heart is a people-first company,” Jolly added.

The 260-square meter facility houses several high-tech set-up including a massive boardroom, display showrooms, product demonstration corners, fully equipped conference rooms for workshops, LED display panels, and a welcoming lounge area. Incoming guests are assisted by transformation experts for testing and demonstrating featured solutions in the hub.

Further making the event more meaningful was the presence of Teleperformance Chief Executive Officer Daniel Julien, Deputy CEO Thomas Mackenbrock, and Global Chief Operating Officer Agustin Grisanti, who were joined by special guests from the local government and industry partners in officially opening the Innovation & Solutions Hub.

Julien acknowledged that TP welcomes AI, and that it is primarily a tool which can aid humans in making faster and informed decisions. He also emphasized that EI and AI can assist businesses in solving daily and complex problems which allows TP to consistently provide exceptional customer service.

Pierre Berube, Senior Vice President of Shared Services & Capability Development, tries out the immersive virtual reality set up featured during the opening of Teleperformance’s newest Innovation & Solutions Hub in Taguig.

Capping off the inauguration of Teleperformance’s Innovation & Solutions hub was a high-level panel discussion on the potential of EI and AI in the Philippines Customer Experience Industry. Sitting in the panel were, from left, Frost & Sullivan Industry Principal Sherrel Roche, CCAP Operations Director Jay Santisteban, AAP President Michelle Alarcon, panel moderator TP North America Chief Transformation Officer Jojo Pacis, SVP of Transformation and Process Excellence at Teleperformance in the Philippines Amit Kale, and Everest Group Practice Director Raghav Agarwal.

The launch event ended with a high-level panel discussion, which included Call Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP) Operations Director Jay Santisteban, Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines (AAP) President Michelle Alarcon, Frost & Sullivan Industry Principal Sherrel Roche, Everest Group Practice Director Raghav Agarwal, and Senior Vice President of Transformation and Process Excellence in Teleperformance in the Philippines Amit Kale. The panel discussion was moderated by TP North America Chief Transformation Officer Jojo Pacis.

To learn more about Teleperformance in the Philippines, visit their website at www.teleperformance.com.

Popeyes Boosts Operational Efficiency with Paywatch’s EWA Program

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Popeyes Philippines, a global fast-food brand renowned for its Southern-style fried chicken and Cajun-inspired cuisine, has partnered with Paywatch to offer Earned Wage Access (EWA) as a new employee benefit. This initiative represents a new-generation approach to enhancing financial support for its workforce.

 Executives and team members from Paywatch and Popeyes Philippines gathered to celebrate their new partnership, which aims to empower Popeyes employees with on-demand Earned Wage Access (EWA)

This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing financial wellness for the Filipino workforce in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.

Popeyes returned to the Philippines in 2019 and has quickly expanded to over 50 outlets nationwide. With a focus on modernization and digital transformation, the company’s commitment to innovation extends to employee welfare. In an industry characterized by rapid growth and high employee turnover, Popeyes aims to improve workforce well-being with EWA—a program that enables employees to access a portion of their wages before payday. This service provides greater financial flexibility for daily expenses and emergencies, helping to reduce reliance on short-term loans.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency Amid Industry Growth

As the demand for convenience food continues to surge, the Philippines' quick service restaurant (QSR) market is projected to reach $7.9 billion by 2026, driven by the fast-paced lifestyle and evolving preferences of Filipino consumers, according to Allied Market Research.[1] To keep up with this anticipated growth, Popeyes is investing in operational efficiency through a workforce empowered by financial stability. With EWA, employees can access a portion of their earnings before payday without incurring debt or hidden fees. This immediate financial support reduces financial stress, translating to improved attendance, higher retention rates, and significant cost savings on retraining and rehiring, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency.

Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines Ed Kintanar—emphasizes the strategic importance of employee well-being in Popeyes’ operations.

"Retaining employees effectively helps our company avoid productivity setbacks. We believe that implementing EWA will enhance our employees’ well-being, leading to improved productivity and higher retention rates.," said Ed Kintanar, Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines. "Paywatch’s expertise makes them the ideal partner to help us introduce this innovative benefit."

Empowering Employees Through Financial Flexibility

Globally, Paywatch’s EWA solution has been adopted by leading brands, including well-known food service companies. By partnering with Paywatch, Popeyes Philippines demonstrates its leadership in employee welfare within the local QSR sector. The initiative not only aims to boost employee satisfaction but also to optimize business operations by fostering a more resilient and engaged workforce.

Popeyes staff have started using the Paywatch app, easing the burden of unexpected financial challenges and empowering them to focus on delivering exceptional service to customers.

"Paywatch is committed to advancing financial wellness across diverse sectors, including food service and retail," said Rowell Del Fierro, President of Paywatch Philippines. "We are excited to see the positive impact that EWA will bring to both employees and businesses, knowing it can enhance financial well-being while also improving overall operations."

By implementing Paywatch’s EWA program, Popeyes is setting a new benchmark for employee care in the fast-moving QSR industry, ensuring that its team is not only financially secure but also highly motivated to deliver exceptional service.

For more information about Paywatch, please visit https://www.paywatchglobal.com/

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About Paywatch

Founded by brothers Richard and Alex Kim, Paywatch is Asia's leading Earned Wage Access (EWA) service provider, committed to fostering holistic financial wellness for employees. By partnering with leading enterprises and top banks across Asia, we enable employees to secure brighter financial futures through safe and flexible financial access. Our mission is to empower people to live better lives. Currently, Paywatch operates in Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with support from Citi, UOB, Hana Bank, and Hong Leong Bank.

[1] https://qsrmedia.asia/videos/demand-convenient-food-drives-ph-qsr-market

J&T Express Expands Cash-on-Delivery (COD) Service to More Customers Nationwide

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J&T Express, one of the leading delivery service providers in the Philippines, is expanding its Cash-on-Delivery (COD) offering, now available to walk-in customers and door-to-door pickup clients starting this quarter. The expansion aims to provide more convenient payment options for customers, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that rely on flexible logistics solutions.

With the new COD feature accessible via the J&T Express mobile app and its official website, businesses can easily register for a COD account and offer this popular payment method to their customers. COD transactions allow customers to pay for their purchases only upon delivery, without the need to depend solely on card or cashless payments.

"COD remains one of the preferred modes of payment in the Philippines, and we want our customers to fully benefit from the services we provide. The COD option helps foster trust between sellers and buyers while enabling more inclusive payment solutions", said Zoe Chi, Vice President of J&T Express Philippines.

Click the link for the tutorial: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1614774065772527

The expanded service also emphasizes its potential to reach customers in remote areas with limited access to digital payment methods. "We aim to provide a secure payment experience for buyers purchasing from online sellers and help our partner sellers attract a broader customer base", she added.

Since its inception, J&T Express has been offering the Cash-on-Delivery (COD) service exclusively to e-commerce platforms and VIP clients, who enjoy special discounts, fast remittance, and a dedicated VIP dashboard. The expansion of this service to walk-in and door-to-door pickup clients marks a significant step in making COD available to a wider range of customers and clientele.

For more information about the latest services and promotions from J&T Express, visit www.jtexpress.ph or follow J&T Express Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube. Customers can also download the J&T Express mobile app for free on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery.

GoTyme Bank, foodpanda launch loan program for MSMEs

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GoTyme Bank and foodpanda have joined forces to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within foodpanda’s online food and grocery delivery platform. This collaboration offers partner vendors flexible financing for working capital, providing them the financial boost they need to sustain their businesses.

The loan program directly addresses the financing challenges faced by MSMEs in today's economic climate, characterized by rising operational costs and lack of access to funding.

It gives online food delivery entrepreneurs easy access to capital at competitive interest rates with a simple application and repayment process. The program also complements foodpanda’s existing “Negosyo Like a Panda” initiative, which offers business loans to partner vendors to fuel their business growth.

Standing: Shern Teo, GoTyme Bank Head of Strategy and Lending, John Kane, GoTyme Capital Asia Head, Jan Mikee Regalario, foodpanda Philippines Fintech Lead, Valerie Alivia, foodpanda Philippines Fintech Manager

Sitting: Albert Tinio, GoTyme Bank Co-CEO, Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank President and CEO, Leopoldo De Castro Jr., foodpanda Philippines Finance Director, Shaun Princess Opulencia-Malalad, foodpanda Philippines Head of Fintech

Championing Filipino MSMEs

GoTyme Bank, a collaboration of Tyme, a multi-country digital banking group, with members of the Gokongwei Group, is the country’s fastest-growing bank, with 4.5 million customers, having operated for less than two years.

foodpanda is a subsidiary of global food delivery leader Delivery Hero, an on-demand food and grocery platform headquartered in Singapore. It is committed to delivering customers their favorite meals quickly. Today it is the largest food and grocery delivery platform in Asia, operating in 11 Asian markets comprising thousands of restaurants across 400 cities. It was launched in the Philippines in 2014, and today delivers meals from curated local restaurants to food lovers nationwide. Currently operating in 150 cities and municipalities, the platform continues its expansion across the country.

This partnership aligns with GoTyme Bank’s mission to support Filipino entrepreneurs by bridging the credit gap for MSMEs, which form a growing portion of its customer base.

GoTyme Bank, together with foodpanda, empowers MSMEs to thrive by streamlining the loan application process and offering flexible repayment options. Through this partnership, foodpanda partner merchants can focus on their core operations while enjoying the convenience of paying more during peak seasons and less during lean times. This tailored approach helps MSMEs optimize their cash flow and achieve their financial goals.

Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank President and CEO and Leopoldo De Castro Jr., 

foodpanda Philippines Finance Director

“We are committed to leveraging GoTyme’s expertise in digital banking and MSME lending,” says Lhecks De Castro, foodpanda Philippines finance director. “Since majority of our partner vendors come from the MSME sector, our goal is to offer innovative and accessible loan products specifically designed for them. This partnership goes beyond digital inclusion for our MSME partners; it prioritizes their financial empowerment.”

GoTyme Bank President and CEO Nate Clarke says he appreciates foodpanda’s recognition of GoTyme’s dedication to supporting MSMEs. “Through this exciting partnership, we look forward to providing entrepreneurs with the crucial financial support they need to achieve their dream business,” he says.

Teleperformance Philippines is certified Great Place to Work® for record-breaking seventh consecutive year

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For the 7th year running, Teleperformance in the Philippines has earned the prestigious Great Place to Work® certification. The 2024 independent survey saw over 40,000 employee responses from Teleperformance’s 27 locations in the country.

In the large category (companies with over 1,000 employees), Teleperformance Philippines secured an impressive fifth-place ranking—a feat that further cemented its status as a top employer.

“Being named a Great Place to Work® for the 7th year in a row is a huge achievement and a testament to the dedication of our customer experts and team members. I am particularly proud of TP’s Impact Sourcing initiatives for this year, which focuses on training and employing individuals who may otherwise be overlooked by traditional employers. We’re excited to continue building an even better workplace culture powered by human empathy and enhanced by cutting-edge technology,” said Chief Executive Officer Rahul Jolly.

Teleperformance in the Philippines’ 7th Great Place to Work badge and certificate

According to the survey results, an impressive 88% of employees affirmed that TP is a “physically safe place to work.” Another 86% agree that they are treated fairly regardless of sexual orientation and are given the resources and equipment to do their jobs.

The 2024 survey results further emphasize Teleperformance's strengths in key areas such as credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. Nearly 80% of Teleperformance Philippines’ employees affirm that the company is a great place to work, significantly outperforming the national average of 65% for other companies in the country.

The organization first achieved the Great Place To Work® certification in 2018. This year marks a milestone for Teleperformance as the first and longest GPTW®-certified company in the Philippines.

Lola Amour goes to TP

As part of Magnificent 7, TP’s celebration of its 7th GPTW recertification, employees were treated to an exciting event featuring a live performance by the renowned Filipino rock band, Lola Amour.

Lola Amour performs to a crowd of 1,500 at the Magnificent 7 celebration in Teleperformance Ayala last September.

With the back-to-back celebration of TP in September and October, the band energized the Teleperformance Ayala and Teleperformance Clark crowd with their hit singles, “Pwede Ba,” “Fallen,” and “Raining in Manila.” Sixty lucky employees were also selected for an exclusive meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Lola Amour.

Lola Amour jams with the Teleperformance employees for their hour-long set at the Magnificent 7 celebration in TP Clark.

In addition to Lola Amour's performance, TP employees took center stage at the Magnificent 7 celebrations. At TP Ayala, TP’s very own dance crew energized the crowd, while solo acts Aimengard Akira Nacor and Mc James Serdan captivated the audience with their renditions of OPM hit songs.

The TP Ayala Dance Crew captivated the audience with their high-powered performance.

The TP Clark Dance Crew delivered a special performance at the Magnificent 7 celebration last October.

The excitement continued in Pampanga with the TP Clark Dance Crew, followed by impressive performances from TP Trainer Ronaliza Garcia, and Quality Coach Sittie Raifa Pangadapun. An acoustic medley was also prepared by Operations Manager Danielle Miko Del Mundo and TP Clark Site Director Justine Kenneth Abellera.

TP’s employee-focused programs

As Teleperformance Philippines continues to grow, it remains dedicated to fostering a supportive work environment for all its employees. Through TP Pride and TP Women’s programs, the organization launched several employee-focused initiatives. One of which include an all-year round Virtual Kwentuhan sessions focused on gender equality and empowerment in the workplace.

Roy Roger Castro Jr., from Program Employee Engagement, highlighted the impact of leadership at TP: “We feel welcomed, and our emotions are validated. When we give feedback, they really listen. I see this firsthand, and whenever our customer experts have concerns, leadership is there to hear them out."

Doubling down to its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), TP’s Project Echo program also provided valuable hands-on experience to the students of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies.

Levi Bautista, a Quality Specialist, also expressed his appreciation for the company’s focus on employee development through continuous learning. He shared, "One of the things I love about TP is the wide range of upskilling courses they offer. There are plenty of programs I can take, usually around communication, people management, and coaching. They even offer online training, which makes it really convenient."

Beyond the GPTW certification, Teleperformance Philippines has received several accolades in 2024. The company was recently honored by the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) for its successful completion of the Gender Equality Assessment, Results, and Strategies (GEARS) tool. Teleperformance also participated in ASEAN-wide gender equality case studies and was recognized for its outstanding contributions to DE&I.

“This recognition from Great Place to Work® is truly a proud moment for us. Teleperformance Philippines’ continued success reflects the highest standards of workplace inclusion that we uphold. Our commitment is to be constantly working each year to build on our employee’s experiences and continue to create a workplace that everyone is proud of” said Chief People Officer Jeffrey Johnson.

For more information on Teleperformance Philippines initiatives through the Citizen of the World, please visit https://www.teleperformance.com/en-us/insights/teleperformance-philippines-commitment-to-inclusion.

Alsons Dev Expands with Nurtura, Offering Quality Homes for Young Families

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Grow your family, grow your future. Quality homes designed for families by Nurtura Land and Home.

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Finding a home that fits your growing family's ever-changing needs and budgets is a vital step towards stability. Mindanao-based real estate developer Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) has adapted to these needs through its mid-cost housing brand, Nurtura Land and Home.

Recognizing the importance of creating homes catering to evolving living standards and value for money, Nurtura Land and Home offers thoughtfully designed and expertly constructed homes that prioritize quality, adaptive design, and cost-effectiveness.

"Drawing from decades of experience in developing thriving communities in Davao City, Alsons Dev takes pride in creating spaces where families with diverse aspirations and lifestyles can thrive. Our Nurtura brand embodies this promise with family-centric designs that ensure safety, comfort, and great value, providing the perfect environment for families to grow and flourish," said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Dominguez.

Narra Park Residences: 

Where efficient planning meets quality living

Narra Park Residences, the maiden project of Nurtura Land & Home by Alsons Dev, was recognized as the Best Housing Development in Metro Davao at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards for both 2023 and 2024.

Narra Park Residences stands tall as a testament to Alsons Dev's vision of creating harmonious living spaces at an accessible price point.

Recently recognized as the Best Housing Development in Mindanao at the 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, Narra Park Residences Avia continues Alsons Dev’s commitment to providing vibrant living spaces for more families in the SOX Region.

Its counterpart, Narra Park Residences Avia, which is located within SOCCSKSARGEN's very first mixed-use development, Avia Estate in Alabel, Sarangani, also carries the signature qualities of Alsons Dev's residential communities under its Nurtura brand.

The variety of housing units for both Nurtura projects—from bungalows to two-story homes—cater to diverse preferences and family needs. These homes feature compact yet space-efficient layouts to maximize functionality and ensure every square foot is usable. Also, the generous lot sizes allow for a garage and garden, ideal for growing families.

"It all begins with strategic space planning," says Tricia A. Dizon, a Makati-based interior decorator with whom Alsons Dev frequently collaborates. "Alsons Dev's in-house planners put a lot of thought into the future homeowners' needs and preferences. We work together to conceptualize and determine the purpose of each space and how prospective buyers intend to use it in everyday living. This becomes our guiding star in creating functional and efficient homes tailored for future homeowners."

Alsons Dev's commitment to efficient planning also extends to construction quality. Every project undergoes rigorous inspections, ensuring each home meets the highest safety standards.

"Alsons Dev's commitment to excellence is evident from concept to execution," said Greric Santos, proprietor of Greco Construction who worked on the Narra Park Residence projects in Davao and Sarangani. "I can vouch for their high standards for quality because I see how their Construction Management team enforces them rigorously on contractors like myself.”

Designed for a balanced lifestyle

Nurtura Land and Home builds communities that go beyond just homes, offering expansive outdoor spaces for today's modern families

Beyond developing houses, Narra Park Residences in Davao and Avia Estate also offer a community-centric environment. Both developments feature expansive green spaces and large parks that encourage social interaction. Family-friendly amenities like pools and multi-purpose courts not only promote an active lifestyle within the neighborhood but also foster a sense of belonging and connection.

The resident's safety and peace of mind are given top priority, as seen in the 24/7 guarded entrance, perimeter walls, and dual gates that double as access points to essential establishments. In the case of Narra Park Residences Avia, a public safety and security complex that integrates police, fire, and emergency response stations is being built close to the residential area, ensuring a secure and peaceful living environment.

Arch. Patrick Tan, Principal Architect of PCTAN Architects and Associates and longtime collaborator of Alsons Dev attests, "We are proud to partner with Alsons Dev in creating vibrant communities. Our collaboration has led to the design of amenities that foster social connections, enrich residents' lives, and serve the larger community, like the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex in Avia Estate. Alsons Dev's commitment to thoughtful development sets a high standard for the industry."

Nurturing generations with lasting homes

Through people-centric developments and thoughtfully designed communities like Narra Park Residences, Alsons Dev cements its leadership in Mindanao real estate, offering exceptional living experiences to the mid-cost market through Nurtura Land & Home.

Know more about Alsons Dev's mid-cost housing projects by visiting the Nurtura Land & Home website at https://nurtura.ph/ and start your journey towards homeownership.