Security Bank earns Three Golden Arrows, reinforcing commitment to responsible banking

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Independent governance recognition underscores the Bank's focus on accountability, transparency, and responsible oversight

Security Bank was recognized with three Golden Arrows by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD). Present to receive the recognition were (L-R) Atty. Karreen Ballesteros, VP and Corporate Governance and Data Protection Officer, and Anna Christina M. Chinjen, SVP and Chief Compliance Officer.

Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank has earned Three Golden Arrows from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), reinforcing its commitment to the standards of governance that matter to customers, investors, and the public.

For a bank entrusted with people's savings, businesses, and investments, good governance is more than a regulatory requirement. It helps ensure that decisions are properly overseen, risks are responsibly managed, and the institution remains accountable to those who depend on it.

The recognition was presented at the Golden Arrow Awards 2026 on October 23, 2026 at Makati Shangri-La.

“People trust us with their money and their financial futures. We have a responsibility to earn that confidence through the way we run the Bank,” said Security Bank Chairman Cirilo Noel. “This recognition reflects our continued commitment to sound oversight, responsible decisions, and accountability.”

The Golden Arrow Awards are based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS), which evaluates publicly disclosed governance practices, including shareholder rights, transparency, sustainability and resilience, stakeholder relations, and board accountability.

For customers, these standards help reinforce confidence in how the Bank is managed. For investors, they provide an important foundation for assessing governance discipline, transparency, and long-term value creation.

No Small Roles: Home Credit Named Among Best Companies to Work for in Asia at HR Asia Award 2026

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Honoring Home Credit’s efforts to foster a culture of creating an engaging, inclusive, and empowering employee experience for over 21,000 employees nationwide.

(R–L): Home Credit Philippines' Senior Corporate Lawyer, Atty. Michael Macabata;

Cash Loan Head, Marion Yvette Bugay; Operations Back Office Head, Christianne Luis;

Collections Head, Wojciech Antoni Krotoszynski; Chief People Officer, Barbara Ann Mecua;

Senior People Partner, Atty. Bianca Mae Bacani; and 

Campaigns Marketing Head, Jasper Sadiang Abay.

Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), one of the country's leading consumer finance companies, has been named among HR Asia's Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2026, marking its first win at the regional workplace recognition program. The recognition highlights Home Credit’s efforts to create an engaging work place for over 21,000 employees, where they feel valued and empowered to grow with meaningful career opportunities.

The HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia Awards recognize employers that demonstrate strong employee engagement, effective human resource management, and positive workplace cultures. The 2026 Philippine edition selected 44 winners from 160 surveyed organizations, drawing on employee feedback gathered through HR Asia's Total Engagement Assessment Model (TEAM).

The recognition was presented on October 6, 2026, at the Manila Marriott Hotel, where Home Credit joined 43 other companies recognized nationwide in the HR Asia Awards for their employee engagement, workplace culture, and human resource practices.

True to its core belief, “No Small Roles, Everyone is Important,” Home Credit continues to cultivate a workplace where every employee is respected, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential, regardless of role or function.

As part of its commitment to employee well-being and inclusion, Home Credit provides benefits and workplace arrangements designed to support the diverse needs of its workforce. These include health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage that extends to eligible same-sex partners, reinforcing the company's commitment to equitable access to healthcare benefits. Home Credit also offers hybrid work arrangements for eligible roles, providing employees with greater flexibility in managing their professional and personal responsibilities.

"At Home Credit, we believe that no role is too small to make a meaningful difference. Every employee, whether serving customers on the frontlines or supporting our operations behind the scenes, contributes to who we are as a company. This recognition reflects our commitment to building a workplace where people feel included, supported, and empowered to succeed. As we continue to grow, we want our employees to grow with us," said Barbara Mecua, Chief People Officer of Home Credit Philippines.

Home Credit Philippines continues to invest in talent development and career progression through programs that equip employees with the skills and capabilities needed for future leadership roles. Among these initiatives are the Harnessing Your Potential for Excellence (HYPE) Management Trainee Program and the Leadership, Influence, Focus and Transformation (LIFT) Management Development Program, which provide structured opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and career advancement.

Through these programs, Home Credit aims to develop talent from within the organization while preparing its workforce to adapt to changing business needs, new technologies, and evolving customer expectations. The company also recognizes the contributions of long-serving employees and frontline teams whose dedication has supported its continued growth and nationwide reach.

For Home Credit Philippines, the HR Asia recognition reinforces the importance of investing in employee experiences alongside business growth.

As the company continues to strengthen its presence in the Philippine consumer finance industry, it remains committed to creating a workplace where employees have opportunities to build meaningful careers, develop their capabilities, and contribute to the company's long-term success.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

On Running Lands Exclusively on LazMall Philippines and Thailand

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Filipino runners and movement enthusiasts can now access On's Swiss-engineered product through its official flagship store on LazMall

Filipino runners and movement enthusiasts will soon have a new way to shop one of the world's fastest-growing premium sportswear brands, as On officially launches its flagship store exclusively on LazMall Philippines, alongside LazMall Thailand, marking a significant milestone in the brand's Southeast Asian eCommerce expansion.

The launch also marks a major milestone for both brands, with Lazada becoming the first marketplace platform in Southeast Asia to launch an official On flagship store. For the Philippines, the launch brings On's Swiss-engineered approach to performance and movement together with Lazada's established eCommerce ecosystem, giving Filipino consumers a trusted digital destination to discover and shop the brand through an official LazMall flagship store.

The partnership also reflects the growing role of eCommerce platforms in how global brands build their presence in Southeast Asia. For On, Lazada provides a platform to reach and engage consumers at scale in two important regional markets while retaining a strong official brand presence on its trusted shopping environment. For Lazada, the launch further strengthens LazMall as a destination where consumers can discover sought-after global brands and access authentic products directly from official brand stores.

"This partnership is a significant milestone not only for Lazada Philippines, but for the region's eCommerce landscape," said Carlos Barrera, CEO at Lazada Philippines. "On is a globally recognized brand with a strong and growing community of runners and movement enthusiasts. We are proud to be the first marketplace platform in Southeast Asia to launch an official On flagship store and to make the brand's products more accessible to Filipino consumers through LazMall.”

The On Official Flagship Store will initially introduce a curated selection of essential running and training footwear and accessories, giving consumers an accessible introduction to the brand and its approach to performance and movement. Among the products planned for the launch assortment are the Cloudmonster, Cloudrunner and Cloudsurfer running franchises, alongside other training and lifestyle models.

As the partnership develops, the assortment will expand throughout 2027 to include more of On's performance and everyday footwear innovations, offering products designed for different movement needs, from everyday and long-distance running to performance training and all-day wear.

This phased approach allows Filipino consumers to discover the brand through Lazada today while creating opportunities to explore a broader range of On products as their running, training and everyday movement needs evolve.

"The Philippines is an exciting market for On, and we see strong potential to connect with more consumers through Lazada's digital ecosystem,” said Rebecca Cai, Chief Global Markets Officer at On. "This partnership gives consumers another convenient way to discover On and experience our products, while allowing us to build a deeper connection with the local movement community.”

Visit the On Official Flagship Store only on LazMall Philippines https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/on.

Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark to Invest in Vena Energy's 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in the Philippines

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Vena Energy’s existing 550 MWp Bugallon Solar Power Project in Pangasinan, Philippines, which is next to the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project now under construction. Image credit: Vena Energy

Singapore, October 2026 – Vena Energy, Norfund, the Norwegian Investment Fund for Developing Countries, and Impact Fund Denmark announced that they have signed agreements on investing a combined 49% equity interest in the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.

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• Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark have signed agreements to invest a combined 49% equity interest in the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.
• The transaction remains subject to the approval of the Philippine Competition Commission ("PCC") and other customary closing conditions.
• The project is expected to supply the equivalent annual electricity needs of approximately 650,000 Philippine households and avoid approximately 570,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually once operational.

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Completion of the transaction is subject to the approval of the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), and other customary closing conditions. The Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project represents a significant addition to the Philippines’ growing renewable energy capacity.

Awarded under the Philippine Department of Energy’s second Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP 2), the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project is expected to generate enough renewable power to supply the equivalent annual electricity needs of approximately 650,000 Philippine households once operational, while avoiding around 570,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

The project reached financial close in July 2026, securing approximately USD 310 million in senior debt financing from a syndicate of eight international banks. This reflects strong international lender appetite for quality large-scale renewable energy infrastructure in the Philippines.

The transaction is expected to contribute to the continued growth of renewable energy generation capacity in the country while supporting long term sustainability objectives.

Nitin Apte, Chief Executive Officer of Vena Group, said, “We are pleased to partner with Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark for the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project. The Philippines is an important market for Vena Energy, and this project demonstrates the scale of renewable energy infrastructure that can be delivered by bringing together strong development capabilities and long-term institutional capital. Together we look forward to supporting the Philippines’ energy transition and contributing to sustainable economic development as we continue to engineer a greener future across Asia-Pacific.”

Simone Grasso, Chief Investment Officer of Vena Group and Global Head of Vena Nexus, said, “This transaction represents another important milestone in our institutional partnership strategy. Once complete, it will bring Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark alongside Vena Energy, allowing us to retain long-term ownership and operational involvement while rotating capital into our construction programmes and future growth. We look forward to progressing the transaction towards completion.”

Erik Sandersen, Chief Executive Officer of Norfund, said, “Norfund’s Climate Investment Fund is set up to avoid emissions in emerging markets, and the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project is a great example of what what we want to do more of. The project is expected to avoid more than half a million tonnes of CO2 every year. We are very happy to partner with Vena Energy and Impact Fund Denmark to contribute to the renewable energy transition in the Philippines.”

Lars Bo Bertram, Chief Executive Officer of Impact Fund Denmark, said, “The Philippines is a growing economy, and demand for electricity is rising rapidly. Today, however, a large share of the country’s electricity is generated from coal. To ensure that economic growth does not lead to even higher emissions, significant investment in renewable energy is needed. This project demonstrates how economic growth and the green transition can go hand in hand.”

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About Vena Group

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a leading green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy arm, Vena Energy, and digital infrastructure platform, Vena Nexus, Vena Group develops, owns and operates integrated, sustainable and cost-effective solutions that support the region’s transition to a low-carbon and AI-enabled future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

About Norfund

Norfund is the Norwegian Investment Fund for developing countries with a mission to create jobs and improve lives by investing in businesses that drive sustainable development. Owned and funded by the Norwegian Government, Norfund is the Government’s most important tool for strengthening the private sector in developing countries and reducing poverty. Norfund’s committed portfolio amounts to USD 4.5 billion, with investments across Sub-Saharan Africa, South/Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, Norfund manages the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund, which focuses on reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions by investing in renewable energy in developing countries with large emissions from coal and other fossil fuel production.

For more information, please visit: www.norfund.no.

About Impact Fund Denmark

Impact Fund Denmark is a Danish impact investor and Denmarks' Development Finance Institution contributing to green, just and inclusive societies as well as supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. Impact Fund Denmark provides risk capital to companies operating in developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Ukraine. Investments are made on commercial terms in the form of equity, loans and guarantees. In addition, through Public Infrastructure, Impact Fund Denmark offers concessional finance through loans and grants to secure access to financing for major public infrastructure projects in developing countries that cannot be financed on market terms.

Read more at www.impactfund.dk

Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Supports CBCP’s Church Heritage Efforts Through Proyekto Custodia

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Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI) through Proyekto Custodia: The National Sacred Art and Church Heritage Initiative, is supporting the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in its efforts to safeguard the country’s religious art. As part of this program, more than 100 antique religious artworks, devotional icons, and ceremonial church objects from the collection of Cebuana Lhuillier Founder and Chairman, Philippine Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, H.E. Philippe J. Lhuillier, will be shared with selected churches across the Philippines.

Representatives of Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) formalize their partnership for Proyekto Custodia: (L-R) Fr. Milan Ted Torralba; CBCP President Archbishop Gilbert Garcera; CLFI Division Head for Programs and Development Rhea B. Peñaflor; and Sebastien L. Lhuillier, representing the Lhuillier family.

Proyekto Custodia aims to help the CBCP care for the country’s religious and artistic legacy by bringing these objects to historic churches, missionary parishes, and rural chapels, where they can be appreciated in settings that reflect their religious significance.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, said the project reflects the family’s desire to support the Church’s work. “My father, Ambassador Lhuillier, has long appreciated how religious art serves as an avenue to showcase history. It is meaningful for us to share part of his collection with the Church and support the CBCP’s efforts to look after these pieces. Through Proyekto Custodia, we hope these artworks will find a home in churches where parishioners and visitors can learn about and appreciate their significance.”

Under the partnership, the CBCP will help endorse Proyekto Custodia to more than 100 heritage churches nationwide and guide the identification of suitable recipients.

In his message for the project, CBCP President Archbishop Gilbert Garcera emphasized that safeguarding religious art is a shared responsibility. “The preservation of our sacred heritage is not the responsibility of the clergy alone. It is a shared mission involving the Church, the laity, cultural institutions, private foundations, artists, historians, and local communities,” he said.

For Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Cebuana Lhuillier, coordination with recipient churches will be important to the project’s implementation: “We want each piece to go to a church where it can be properly cared for and appreciated. Working with the CBCP helps us understand each church’s needs and ensure that the artworks are placed in settings suited to their purpose and history.”

Through Proyekto Custodia, CLFI is supporting the CBCP’s efforts to care for the country’s religious art and keep these works part of church life across the Philippines.

Manulife Philippines and iCare HMO Partner to Advance Holistic Health and Financial Wellness

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Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, and iCare HMO, one of the country’s top health maintenance organizations, have entered into a strategic partnership to help companies offer employees more integrated health and financial protection.

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* Under the newly signed partnership, Manulife will provide a group life insurance plan with accidental insurance benefits and optional supplementary second-layer medical cover for major critical illnesses to select iCare’s HMO customers, complementing their existing HMO coverage with additional financial protection.

*  The collaboration brings together iCare’s healthcare expertise and nationwide reach with Manulife’s protection and wealth solutions to help Filipinos better prepare for both medical and financial needs

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Through this partnership, Manulife’s group life insurance benefit will be available to select iCare HMO group customers. The annually renewable coverage sits alongside employees’ existing healthcare benefits, giving corporate clients another option for building a more holistic employee benefits package that addresses both medica

Golden Haven Raises the Bar with Fast and Convenient Commission Releases

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Golden Haven continues to strengthen its commitment to its sales partners by making commission releases faster, more reliable, and more convenient through its 24-hour commission processing and the addition of GCash as a payout option.

Recognizing the important role of its sales force in driving business growth, Golden Haven prioritizes timely commission processing to help sales partners access their hard-earned earnings sooner. By streamlining the process and providing more convenient payout options, the company aims to make commission releases more efficient and accessible.

The addition of GCash as an alternative payout method further supports this commitment, giving sales partners greater flexibility in receiving their commissions.

“Our sales partners are an important part of our success, and we believe their hard work deserves to be recognized and rewarded promptly. We continuously look for ways to make the commission process faster, more reliable, and more convenient for them,” said Maricris Quioge, Finance Operations Lead of Golden Haven.

These initiatives reflect Golden Haven’s continued efforts to build stronger relationships with its sales force by fostering trust, recognizing their contributions, and providing support that helps them succeed.

Through improvements in its internal processes and payout options, Golden Haven reaffirms its commitment to creating a more responsive and partner-focused working environment, where the efforts of its sales partners are valued and rewarded.

Golden Haven invites families to discover the Gold Standard in Memorial Care. Visit www.goldenhaven.com.ph for more information or connect through official social media channels. For inquiries, call 09190790205 / 09190790208 / 09190790209.

InLife launches new global fund that combines technology and income investing

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InLife has launched its Global Equity Premium Income Fund (GEPI), a new variable unit-linked (VUL) fund that has the potential to provide monthly income payouts through an actively managed portfolio with exposure to the Nasdaq-100 and a covered call options strategy.

What sets the target fund apart is that it is designed to provide monthly income by selling call options to generate option premiums, as the fund name suggests. In periods of elevated market volatility, call options become more valuable, and the income received by the fund improves.

GEPI invests through a feeder fund into J.P. Morgan’s Nasdaq Equity Premium Income ETF (JEPQ). The target fund provides exposure to companies similar to those represented in the Nasdaq-100 Index, which tracks 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq stock market, including Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta, among others.

"Filipino investors are increasingly seeking global growth opportunities, particularly in innovation and technology, but often hesitate due to market volatility. With GEPI, we are bridging this gap by combining exposure to world-leading tech innovators with an active covered call strategy. This allows our policyholders to avoid the common trap of exiting their investments during heightened market volatility, helping them navigate different market environments with greater confidence,” said InLife Chief Product and Innovation Officer Jose Eduardo O. Ang.

GEPI is intended for investors seeking a smoother Nasdaq-100 investing experience while achieving regular monthly income payouts. It may also complement existing income investor portfolios by providing higher yields.

The fund will be available for new applications and eligible existing InLife VUL policies for fund switches and top-ups, including Wealth Assure Plus and Solid Fund Builder, subject to applicable eligibility requirements.

Through GEPI, InLife expands its range of investment-linked fund options, giving policyholders another way to participate in global markets while pursuing their financial goals.

Interested policyholders may consult their InLife financial advisors or visit https://www.inlife.com.ph/global-equity-premium-income-fund to know more about GEPI.

Mynt President and CEO Martha Sazon named among Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Asia 2026

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Martha Sazon, president and CEO of Mynt, the parent company of GCash, has once again been recognized among Fortune’s Most Powerful Women 2026 Asia—marking her third consecutive inclusion in the prestigious list. The recognition highlights her role in reshaping financial access in the Philippines and elevating GCash into the country’s #1 finance superapp.

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Under Sazon’s leadership, Mynt became the Philippines’ first $5B double unicorn. The company is now pursuing the largest IPO in Philippine history, structured with inclusive pricing to open investment opportunities to everyday Filipinos, further cementing its role as a transformative force in regional fintech

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Sazon assumed leadership during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, guiding GCash through a period of unprecedented demand. Her focus on customer-centricity transformed the platform into a lifeline for Filipinos, democratizing access to digital payments, savings, credit, insurance, and investments.

Under her leadership, Mynt became the country’s first and only $5B unicorn, embedding itself into everyday life and even becoming a verb across the Philippines. Building on this momentum, the company is now in the midst of its historic IPO process—the largest in Philippine history—structured with inclusive pricing that opens participation to everyday Filipinos, effectively democratizing investment across the nation. This groundbreaking move further underscores its role as a transformative force in Philippine fintech and signals strong investor confidence in its long term vision.

Her influence extends beyond GCash. Sazon has represented Philippine fintech and innovation at global forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, the International Monetary Fund Executive Board Retreat, the Global Summit of Women in Dubai, the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, and more recently, the UN Global Compact (UNGC) Leaders Summit 2026, which was held in New York City. By bringing the Philippine perspective to these international stages, she has helped position the country as an emerging leader in inclusive digital finance.

“I’m grateful for this recognition, which reflects the work of the whole team behind what we do. For us at GCash, “Finance for All” means using technology to make everyday life better and create more opportunities for Filipinos. There’s still so much more we can do, and that’s what keeps us going,” said Sazon.

The impact of her leadership is most evident in the country’s financial inclusion journey, with GCash pioneering inclusive lending through GScore, its AI driven credit scoring system. By recognizing digital behavior instead of traditional collateral, GCash has opened access to loans for more than 11 million borrowers, half of whom are women. Before the pandemic, only 29% of Filipinos were banked, and formal borrowing penetration stood at just 12%, with 40% relying on informal lenders. Today, largely because of finance apps like GCash, 50% of Filipino adults now have a formal financial account, a transformation that bridges the gap between the unbanked and the banked, enabling households to manage daily needs, supporting small businesses, and strengthening communities. These innovations demonstrate how fintech can drive empowerment at scale.

Sazon’s career spans three decades across industries, including consumer goods, telecom, and fintech. Prior to Mynt, she spent 12 years at Globe Telecom, where she drove growth in mobile postpaid, SME, and broadband services. She graduated cum laude in business administration and accountancy from the University of the Philippines Diliman and pursued further studies at IMD, INSEAD, and Harvard Business School.

The Most Powerful Women Asia list is one of Fortune’s most prestigious programs, honoring 150 women leaders across the region whose influence spans business, culture, and public life. Candidates are evaluated on scale, innovation, influence, trajectory, and impact—making the recognition one of the most highly competitive citations for leaders in Asia and a benchmark of leadership excellence. Sazon’s inclusion affirms not only her achievements at GCash but also her place among Asia’s most transformative leaders.

It also reflects how Philippine fintech, under her guidance, continues to redefine financial inclusion through customer centric innovation, empower communities, and earn global respect while contributing to nation building.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

Final Call, Changemakers: Join Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026 Before November 2

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Submit your proposal by November 2 and take the step towards building a better future for your community!

As the submission deadline draws closer, the search for the Philippines’ top Changemakers through Samsung Philippines Solve for Tomorrow 2026 enters its final stretch. The nationwide innovation competition calls on students to address local challenges and help shape a better future for their communities.

With nearly ₱2 million worth of prizes at stake, Samsung Philippines Solve for Tomorrow continues to inspire Filipino youth to use science, technology, and creativity to make a meaningful difference in their communities, even at a young age.

The challenge remains open to all Grades 8 to 10 students enrolled in government-managed science high schools across the country. Each team can have up to four (4) members, guided by one (1) teacher adviser. Together, they are encouraged to explore the issues closest to their hearts, whether championing environmental sustainability, driving social change through sports and technology, or tackling local challenges with the help of artificial intelligence, to create solutions that can make a lasting impact.

Entries must be submitted on or before 02 November, 2026, marking the last chance to be among this year’s Changemakers driving positive change.

Alongside a meaningful learning experience throughout their journey, the top teams will also receive exciting prizes. The grand champion will receive ₱400,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, along with ₱200,000 worth of gadgets for the team and adviser. They will also take home ₱100,000 in cash, with an additional ₱30,000 for the teacher-adviser.

The second-place winner will receive ₱300,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, ₱200,000 worth of gadgets for the team, ₱70,000 in cash for the members, and ₱25,000 for their adviser. The third-place winner will bring home ₱175,000 worth of Samsung devices for their school, ₱200,000 worth of gadgets for the team, ₱50,000 in cash for the members, and ₱15,000 for their adviser.

The rest of the Top 10 finalists will not leave empty-handed as each team will be awarded ₱15,000 in cash, while their dedicated teacher-advisers will receive ₱5,000 each in recognition of their guidance and support throughout the competition.

A Generation of Changemakers

Last year, Solve for Tomorrow celebrated the winning teams from Cavite Science Integrated School: Team MaHeMo for its solar-powered buoy that monitors mangrove health and Team EGGNovation for its automated egg-sorting system. Meanwhile, Team BANTALAY of Tuguegarao City Science High School proposed a solar-powered pest trap to support more sustainable farming. Together, these students showed how ideas rooted in community needs can inspire meaningful change, paving the way for this year’s aspiring changemakers to share their own ideas for a better tomorrow.

Now in its fourth year in the Philippines, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow continues to encourage young minds to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Don’t miss your shot to bring about change! Take your ideas further, make a difference, and compete for exciting prizes through Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026! Interested participants can learn more about the program and submit their entries by visiting www.samsung.com/ph/solve-for-tomorrow or following Samsung Philippines on social media via Facebook (facebook.com/SamsungPH), X (x.com/SamsungPH), and Instagram (instagram.com/samsungph).

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-267269 Series of 2026

Home Credit Builds Futures Beyond Classrooms, Transforming Lives and Strengthening Community Resilience in Typhoon-hit Catanduanes

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Together with All Hands & Hearts and Happy Hearts Czech, Home Credit contributed to building futures beyond classrooms by strengthening education, resilience, and opportunities for underserved communities

Employees of Home Credit Philippines work together to revitalize learning spaces at Salvacion Elementary School as part of the company's community outreach initiatives

For more than a decade, Home Credit Philippines has been helping Filipinos move closer to a more rewarding life through accessible financial solutions while creating meaningful impact beyond financing through initiatives that advance education, support communities, and foster long-term resilience.

Bringing this commitment to life, Home Credit partnered with All Hands & Hearts (AH&H) and Happy Hearts Czech—whose instrumental support helped build and facilitate this partnership—to transform Salvacion Elementary School in Catanduanes into a safer, more resilient learning environment while equipping the wider community with the learning infrastructure, skills, and support needed to thrive for years to come. This six-month initiative, which culminated in July 2026, reflects Home Credit's commitment to building futures beyond classrooms and creating sustainable opportunities for the typhoon-affected school and community of Salvacion.

For years, recurring typhoons left the school vulnerable to damage, disrupting learning, and affecting both students and teachers. Through Home Credit's support, four disaster-resilient classrooms were built, five classrooms were repaired, and critical facilities including sanitation infrastructure, a water filtration and drinking station, electrical upgrades, furniture, and a new playground were provided. These improvements now benefit 115 students and nine school staff members, creating a safer and more conducive environment for learning.

But for Home Credit, building futures means going beyond infrastructure. Recognizing that resilient communities are built through empowerment, the company also supported a range of programs designed to strengthen disaster preparedness, well-being, and self-reliance of the community.

Through the initiative,

• · 393 students, teachers, and community members received disaster preparedness training
• · 126 beneficiaries participated in child protection programs
• · 78 community members attended menstrual hygiene management workshops
• · 4 women completed female mason training, equipping them with valuable skills that can support future livelihood opportunities and local recovery efforts.

"At Home Credit, we believe that true empowerment begins with creating opportunities for people to learn, grow, and build better lives," said Jana Pechouckova, Senior Vice President of Home Credit Philippines. "Through this partnership with All Hands & Hearts, we are investing not only in safer classrooms but also in stronger, more resilient communities. When children have access to quality learning environments and communities are equipped to face future challenges, we create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom."

Students at Salvacion Elementary School settle into their newly renovated classroom, designed to provide a safer and more inspiring learning environment.

The partnership also lays the foundation for long-term community development. With improved facilities and renewed confidence within the community, Salvacion Elementary School is planning to expand access to learning by offering educational opportunities for adults who were unable to complete their formal education, creating new pathways for personal and economic growth.

"Recovery is not just about rebuilding infrastructures; it's about restoring opportunities and strengthening communities for the future," said Kez Burrows, Program Director at All Hands & Hearts. "Home Credit's support enabled us to deliver meaningful and lasting impact in Salvacion, helping create safer learning spaces while empowering community members with the knowledge and skills needed to build resilience for the coming times."

The initiative forms part of Home Credit's broader commitment to creating positive social impact through purpose-driven partnerships that address real community needs. By working alongside organizations such as All Hands & Hearts, the company will continue to help communities recover, grow stronger, and unlock opportunities for future generations.

"The success of this partnership reinforces our belief that lasting change happens when organizations come together around a shared purpose," Pechouckova added. "As we look ahead, Home Credit remains committed to pursuing more partnerships that empower communities, strengthen resilience, and create opportunities for Filipinos across the country.”

Manulife Philippines Named One of HR Asia's 2026 Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Earns Tech Empowerment and People Transformation Awards

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Three HR Asia wins, plus two regional HR Excellence Awards Singapore nominations, underscore Manulife Philippines' people-first culture powered by technology, learning, and innovation.

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, has been named one of HR Asia's 2026 Best Companies to Work for in Asia, while also earning the Tech Empowerment Award and People Transformation Award. Presented during HR Asia's awards ceremony in Pasay City on October 6, 2026, the recognitions highlight the company's commitment to creating an exceptional employee experience through continuous learning, innovation, and a people-first culture. The awards build on Manulife Philippines' ongoing efforts to develop future-ready talent, enhance colleague well-being, and empower teams with the tools and capabilities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace.

HR Asia's Best Companies to Work for in Asia recognizes organizations identified by their employees as employers of choice, demonstrating high levels of employee engagement and strong workplace cultures. The award is based on employee survey results benchmarked against market scores and an assessment of the organization's people practices. The award recognizes Manulife Philippines' commitment to fostering an inclusive, engaging, and high-performing workplace where colleagues can learn, grow, and succeed.

"These awards affirm that the future belongs to organizations bold enough to invest in their people. Talent and technology are the twin engines of our growth strategy, and being recognized validates that our investments in innovation, capability-building, and colleague experience are translating into a stronger, more future-ready organization," said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Hora added, "Our ambition to become Filipino customers' no. 1 choice for trusted financial advice starts from within. Empowered, future-ready teams deliver better experiences for the customers and communities we serve, while a strong culture enables us to attract, develop, and retain the very best talent. That shared purpose is what drives us to keep building better, together."

The HR Asia Tech Empowerment Award acknowledges companies that harness technological innovation to empower employees, enhance collaboration, and create meaningful progress. The HR Asia People Transformation Award recognizes companies that place learning at the center of their people strategy, investing in upskilling their workforce with the capabilities needed for tomorrow's challenges.

Manulife Philippines earned the Tech Empowerment Award for embedding innovation into the daily employee experience, including the rollout of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) capabilities including the rollout of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) capabilities that give colleagues new ways to collaborate and work. The company received the People Transformation Award for placing learning and growth at the core of its people strategy and by investing in continuous upskilling through its proprietary online platform, Pursuit, and LinkedIn Learning, alongside programs that champion inclusion, wellness, recognition, and engagement.

Recognition Extends to the Regional Stage: HR Excellence Awards Singapore 2026

Manulife Philippines has also been named a finalist in two categories at the 14th Annual HR Excellence Awards Singapore 2026, one of the region's most prestigious platforms celebrating innovation and excellence in human resources.

· Excellence in Leadership Development, recognizing the company's investment in building capable, future-ready leaders across the organization.

· Excellence in Total Rewards Strategy, recognizing a holistic approach to compensation, benefits, and well-being that supports Manulife colleagues at every stage of their careers.

“These HR awards affirm the intentional choices we've made: to develop future-ready leaders, reward our people meaningfully, and embed learning and technology into everyday work. Through AI and innovation, we're giving our colleagues the tools to work smarter and collaborate better. More importantly, these recognitions are a testament to our colleagues, who show up every day with curiosity, care, and commitment and are the true engine behind every achievement we celebrate,” said Ardhi Siregar, Chief People Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Siregar added, “To be recognized for empowering our people is deeply meaningful, and it inspires us to keep raising the bar, building an organization where every colleague can reach their fullest potential as part of our high-performing team.”

Together, these recognitions underscore Manulife Philippines' commitment to being an employer of choice. From fostering a culture of engagement and inclusion to investing in technology, leadership development, learning, and colleague well-being, the company continues to build a workplace where talent, innovation, and purpose advance side by side.

Breaking the debt cycle from predatory lenders: Cebuana entrepreneurs rely on GLoan Negosyo to grow their business

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For many Filipino entrepreneurs, the biggest hurdle isn’t the idea, it’s the capital to make it happen. At the Wais Tindera Caravan in Cebu, three women shared how access to financing helped them build businesses and support their families.

Through GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem, and its lending solutions from Fuse Financing Inc., these entrepreneurs are gaining access to credit that fits how they earn and spend.

A nail salon breaking free from high-pressure informal lending

Dyan, 35, does nails for a living in Barangay Suba, Cebu City, often traveling to clients for home service calls. Supplies run out fast in this business, and before GLoan Negosyo, keeping up meant borrowing from informal lenders who expected payment every single day. For someone whose income depends on how many clients she sees, that pressure never lets up.

GLoan Negosyo changed the rhythm. She now restocks on her own terms, without the daily scramble to repay.

"Dati araw-araw ako nagbabayad sa mga pinagkakautangan ko, kaya mas maganda 'yong GLoan kasi makakaipon ka pa bago magbayad. ‘Yong inutang ko, pambayad ko ng mga gamit ko sa paglilinis ng nails ng mga customer. Wala akong masasabi sa GLoan, nakakatulong talaga siya, lalo na kapag wala kang pera at gusto mong gamitin pang-negosyo, low interest pa siya," Dyan said. (Before, I paid daily on my debts, so GLoan is better because I can save up first before paying. What I borrowed went to my nail supplies for my customers. GLoan helps a lot, especially when you have no money and need capital for your business, and the interest is low too.)

GCash is with Dyan everywhere her work takes her. Clients pay her on the spot using GCash, cash-in and cash-out transactions and prepaid load sales also bring in a little extra on the side. And through GSave, Dyan is quietly building an emergency fund, money she can't accidentally spend the way she might with cash in her pocket.

Building a sari-sari store from the ground up

In 2024, Jill, 28, and her partner opened a sari-sari store with nothing but GLoan Negosyo to support them. A ₱15,000 loan gave them the starting capital they needed to open their business. Since then, Jill has relied on GLoan five more times to restock whenever her sales slow down, turning a quick fix into a steady and reliable system for keeping her shelves full.

"Ginamit ko ang GLoan para lumago ang negosyo, pinambili ko ng mga paninda ko po tulad ng mga sabon, shampoo, at canned goods. Masaya po ako dahil maliit lang ang interest, hindi mabigat sa bulsa dahil hindi siya araw-araw binabayaran, talagang makakaipon ka para makapagbayad buwan-buwan. Nakatulong po talaga dahil kung wala akong puhunan, ito 'yong nagagamit ko," Jill said. (I used GLoan to grow my business, buying stock like soap, shampoo, and canned goods. I'm happy because the interest is small and easy on the pocket since I don't pay daily, I can really save up to pay monthly. It really helped, because when I have no capital, this is what I use.)

Jill's store also takes GCash payments, a small edge over the cash-only stores nearby. The monthly repayment schedule also offers much-needed breathing room compared to the daily pressure of informal lenders, allowing her business to stay steady even during slow periods.

A small side hustle funding a big dream

Carmen, 42, runs a small fish vending business in Barangay Suba—the kind of daily work that keeps a household going. To grow her business, she buys fish by the banyera (tub) and resells them to fellow vendors and fisherfolk, making sure no day goes to waste.

When additional capital was needed to keep her fish trade moving, GCash provided the crucial push. Introduced to the app by her cousin, Carmen turned to GLoan to supplement her existing capital, allowing her to purchase more inventory and keep her business afloat without the slow, restrictive processes of traditional financial institutions.

"Ibig sabihin, idinagdag ko lang hanggang sa lumaki. Extra na pera para maikot 'yung tinda. Nakatulong din sa iba at sa mga bata. Dahil may negosyo ka na, nakakatulong ka pa kaysa naman ma-standby ka lang," Carmen said. (I added the loan to my capital so it could grow—extra money to keep the trade moving. It also helped others and the kids. Because you have a business, you get to help out instead of just staying idle.)

Carmen isn't stopping there. She plans to maintain a good credit standing, explore GCash’s savings features, and use digital bill payments to make running her business and managing her household even easier.

Three stories, one lesson

Dyan, Jill, and Carmen didn't just get a loan; they got a chance to build something, and the confidence to keep growing. Financing gave them room to start a business, restock a shelf, expand an idea, or simply get through a hard month without losing ground.

Their stories point to something bigger happening across the Philippines, especially as more Filipinos turn a small business into their main livelihood with the help of accessible financing. GCash and Fuse Financing want to be part of that story even more, so more entrepreneurs can grow and seize new opportunities to build the future they dream for their families.

To know more about GCash and its lending solutions, please visit www.gcash.com.

Grab Asenso Learning Caravan brings digital upskilling to Puerto Princesa MSMEs

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Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron joins GrabFood merchant-partners in the first Grab Asenso Learning Caravan in the city

Grab Philippines brings its Grab Asenso Learning Caravan to Puerto Princesa, holding a full-day masterclass that equipped GrabFood merchant-partners with practical digital skills and tools to grow their businesses.

The caravan is part of Grab Asenso Digital Diskarte, the company's flagship tech and AI enablement program for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It was held with the International Trade Centre (ITC), the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations dedicated to helping small businesses compete.

Sessions covered growth and payment tools on the GrabMerchant app, including GrabAds Spotlight Campaigns; Tap & Scan to Pay, which lets merchants accept QR and card payments; and GrabMerchant AI Assistant, an AI co-pilot for daily operations. ITC experts led modules on digital content mastery and content strategy.

Welcoming Grab's efforts to help local MSMEs grow through digitalization, Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron said Grab's presence in the city reflects confidence in the local economy and its readiness for new opportunities.

"For us, Grab's arrival in Puerto Princesa is an indication of their trust in the economy of Puerto Princesa, and of Puerto Princesa's readiness to receive new investments and to accept new opportunities," he said.

The mayor also underscored the role of food delivery in helping local businesses grow. "Food delivery will help restaurant owners increase their sales. There are several people who don't have the time to go to restaurants, but they can take advantage of Grab delivery to order the food they want from our participating restaurants."

The Grab Asenso: Digital Diskarte Program supports Puerto Princesa's push to digitalize local MSMEs and expand their opportunities in the digital economy. [L-R] Grab Philippines Merchant Programs and Engagement Manager Bea Torricer, Public Affairs Manager James Roman, Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron, Grab Philippines Vice President for Cities RJ Cabaluna, Regional Manager for South Luzon Danver Mallari, and Merchant Operations Lead Donna Elagio

Helping local businesses thrive

GrabFood launched in Puerto Princesa in October 2025, and has since onboarded homegrown favorites such as Haim Chicken, Puerto’s Pancit Malabon, 100% Cafe Moto, and Del Cusina.

100% Cafe Moto began as A+ Moto Cafe in Bancao-Bancao during the COVID-19 pandemic, a gathering place for motorcycle enthusiasts and locals. Before joining GrabFood, customers ordered by phone and staff had to find a rider, which often delayed deliveries. GrabFood now brings delivery fees, estimated delivery times, and online payments onto a single platform.

"As a business grows, it is important to factor in technology. As a restaurant, we need to find ways to serve customers better through technology. More and more people are also now finding ordering more convenient than visiting a physical store, so we need to be able to bridge that gap," said Gladys Abad, 100% Cafe Moto's operations manager.

Del Cusina, a family-owned buffet restaurant that started in Sabang, was severely damaged by Typhoon Odette in late 2021. The business was rebuilt and relocated to the South National Highway in Tiniguiban.

"Our journey has taught us that running a small business means being ready to adapt. After Typhoon Odette, rebuilding and relocating was a major challenge. As we rebuilt and reintroduced our food, we realized we could also give customers the gift of convenience by partnering with GrabFood," said Dayan Jardin, Del Cusina’s Dining Supervisor. The partnership immediately lifted the restaurant's sales by up to 30 percent, with GrabFood delivery orders continuing to grow relative to walk-in orders.

Building an ecosystem for MSME growth

Grab Asenso's partnership with ITC runs through the agency's Digital PINAS program, which builds MSMEs' technology and AI capabilities and tracks how digital adoption translates into business growth.

GrabFood merchant-partners and fellow community business owners work through hands-on exercises during ITC-led modules on digital content strategy and branding.

Through the end of 2026, ITC will bring expert-led masterclasses to Learning Caravans in regional cities nationwide, along with a merchant monitoring framework that measures business results. Sessions follow Digital PINAS' hands-on format, covering digital business profiles, online presence, brand and marketing content, creative platforms, and AI for streamlining operations.

"MSMEs are the backbone of our local economies. They create jobs, sustain families, and drive the growth of cities like Puerto Princesa," said RJ Cabaluna, vice president for Cities at Grab Philippines. "Empowering them is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient Philippine economy. Our partnership does not end when a store goes live on GrabFood. We are committed to growing alongside our merchants and the communities they serve, widening their access to technology, know-how, and opportunity so they can compete and thrive in the digital economy."

Isla LPG Corporation Launches Isla EDGE, Marks New Milestone in LPG Industry Training and Safety

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Isla LPG Corporation marked a significant milestone in its commitment to safety and excellence in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry with the launch of Isla EDGE, its dedicated training arm focused on developing competent, safety-conscious, and qualified LPG practitioners.

Isla LPG Corporation and Department of Energy (DOE) officials celebrate the recognition of Isla EDGE as a DOE-accredited LPG training organization, marking a milestone in advancing safety, technical competency, and practitioner development in the Philippine LPG industry. (L-R: Erwill Catanghal, Plant Manager, Isla LPG; Erwin Leonor, Technical Services Director, Isla LPG; Haidee Alverne, B2C Sales Operations Manager, Isla LPG; Elma Revillame, B2B National Sales Director, Isla LPG; Joey Cutaran, General Manager, Operations, Isla LPG; Marvin Castor, Public Affairs Officer, Isla LPG; Banjo Castillo, Chief Operating Officer, Isla LPG; Rino Abad, DOE OIMB Director; Loralai Capistrano, DOE Supervising Science Research Specialist; Aracelie Pascua; Ron Sante; and Francis Flores.)

The milestone was celebrated during a recognition and launch event held on August 19, 2026, following the Department of Energy’s (DOE) recognition of Isla LPG Corporation as one of the country’s LPG Training Organizations.

The milestone comes at a time when LPG continues to play an important role in the Philippines’ energy landscape. For millions of Filipino households, LPG remains a primary cooking fuel. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2020 Census of Population and Housing showed that 47.9% of Philippine households used LPG as their cooking fuel, making it the most commonly used cooking fuel nationwide, ahead of wood, charcoal, electricity, and kerosene.

As LPG remains an important part of everyday life and economic activity, ensuring that it is handled, stored, transported, distributed, and sold properly is critical to protecting consumers, workers, businesses, and communities. This need becomes even more significant as the country’s LPG sector continues to evolve. Under the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050, the Department of Energy projects substantial growth in household LPG requirements over the long term. At the same time, the implementation of Republic Act No. 11592, or the LPG Industry Regulation Act, has reinforced the importance of industry regulation, safety, accountability, and consumer protection.

It is within this landscape that Isla LPG is introducing Isla EDGE — an initiative focused on developing a stronger and more capable workforce for an industry where knowledge, discipline, and responsible practices can directly contribute to safety. Isla EDGE is committed to developing skilled and empowered LPG retailers and dealers, through quality training and continuous learning. Its programs are designed to strengthen competencies across the LPG value chain, from safe handling and operations to responsible distribution, sales practices, and compliance.

For Isla LPG, sustainability is closely tied to the way the LPG ecosystem operates. A responsible industry requires systems that encourage proper handling and distribution, informed consumers, capable personnels, and practices that minimize unnecessary waste while maintaining safety and quality.

“Isla EDGE represents our commitment to developing people who can help build a safer, more responsible, and more sustainable LPG industry. We want our LPG dealers and retailers to understand not only what they need to do, but why it matters—to their colleagues, to consumers, to our communities, and to the future of the industry.” said Marvin Castor, Public Affairs Officer.

The launch of Isla EDGE reinforces Isla LPG’s belief that safety and sustainability begin with people. When industry practitioners are properly trained and equipped, they are better positioned to make sound decisions, follow established standards, identify risks, and promote responsible practices throughout the LPG value chain.

This people-centered approach complements the company’s broader efforts to make LPG more accessible and encourage responsible participation in the market. From supporting safe and compliant operations to enabling consumers to exchange LPG tanks across brands through the Solane network, Isla LPG continues to look for ways to make the LPG experience more convenient while strengthening trust and accountability.

For Isla LPG, the DOE recognition as an LPG Training Organization is therefore not simply an institutional achievement, it is an opportunity to contribute to a culture where training, safety, sustainability, and excellence become everyday practices across the industry.

Through Isla EDGE, the company aims to help raise the bar for LPG personnel capability while supporting a safer and more sustainable LPG ecosystem for generations to come. Because ultimately, building a better LPG industry means building the people who will responsibly carry it forward. The company continues to empower people, drive growth, strengthen industry standards, and help build a safer and more sustainable future for the Philippine LPG industry.

#ISLAEDGE  #LPGSafety  #SafetyFirst  #IslaLPG  #TrainingForExcellence  #Solane