AirAsia Philippines soars with Unbreakable Commitment to remain resilient amid crisis

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Airlines world over continue to look at ways to overcome the significant challenges brought by the on-going effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The restrictions on international and domestic travel caused ripples of setbacks which necessitates collaboration among industry players to enable themselves to bounce back stronger. 

For AirAsia Philippines, their struggles from the pandemic prompted them to renew their unbreakable commitment to serve their guests despite turbulent times. No matter how dark the clouds seem during the flight, there is always a silver lining amid the storm.

“I shall never forget March 19, 2020. There was a total lockdown; all flights were canceled, and the airports were closed. It was tough…We know that it will take us two to three months to get back our commercial flights, thus we have to be agile,” said AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla. 

The company immediately implemented multi-layered approaches to safety, such as enforcing rigorous sanitation processes on the ground, inside the aircraft,  equipping their ground staff, pilots, and cabin crew with protective equipment, thermal screening, and implementing strict social distancing, among others.

“The most important question that our passengers would always challenge us is, is it safe to ride in an aircraft considering that you’re close to your seatmate? But to us, we made sure that there’s proper education regarding our Highly Efficient Particulate Air Filtration process. Because of that, we were able to rebuild immediately the confidence of our passengers to fly…” Isla noted. 

While commercial flights are still recovering, AirAsia shifted to chartered flights for both passengers and cargo. In partnership with various government agencies, AirAsia safely mounted chartered repatriation flights among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to help them return to their provinces to reunite with their families. They also accommodated chartered trips to transport personal protective equipment (PPEs) and medical supplies to the country, which are essential for medical front liners in the fight against COVID-19.

The volatile climate did not prevent the business from seeing the silver lining on the horizon. In fact, it opened doors of opportunities for growth and expansion as it launched airasiaSuper App, the fastest growing digital, travel, and lifestyle platform that features not only flights but flights plus hotel bundles under snap, unlimited deals, cargo and logistics venture Teleport and soon more offerings that will cater to the growing eCommerce business in the Philippines.

AirAsia augmented their customer services to better assist the concerns of their guests through an efficient customer interface to address queries on changing traveling requirements effectively.. They also adopted contactless solutions to seamlessly verify passenger information through FACES, a facial recognition technology pioneered, developed and operated by AirAsia which will replace boarding passes and make traveling in the new normal better, convenient and unique. 

This was made possible by having a reliable partner who provided them with the necessary support in embracing technology to adapt to the new normal. PLDT Enterprise, through its ICT arm ePLDT, supported AirAsia in providing exceptional customer experience to their patrons. Through its slew of digital solutions, AirAsia was able to uphold its unbreakable commitment to keeping its customers satisfied despite all the regulations they need to follow.

“During this pandemic, we made sure that PLDT Enterprise was with us the whole time. They provided AirAsia with a very well-managed Emergency Disaster Hotline Service, through ePLDT, which is powered by Curo Teknika,” Isla said.

 Moreover, with the launch of the AirAsia Super App in the Philippines, they expanded their presence in providing a comprehensive travel experience to passengers, as they now also assist other travel necessities, including bookings for hotel and medical requirements, shopping, and activities, among others.

“AirAsia is known to be a disruptor in the industry. With the help of our Malaysian group and all other subsidiaries in Indonesia, Thailand, and Japan, we transformed into a digital airline company.; we are now more than just an airline,” Isla added.

“Marami pong salamat sa ePLDT. The service aims to support a full online customer service delivery for AirAsia and it's complete with all the digital platforms which are conducive to our customers to address all their needs even beyond post pandemic. And we will continue to build this up aside from our AVA (Allstar Virtual Assistant); we will make sure that our ePLDT powered by Curo Teknika is with us the whole time,” Isla highlighted.

“We are very happy that we shall be keeping this partnership with PLDT Enterprise as we progress and move forward to a better pandemic-free future.” 

PLDT Enterprise’s Unbreakable Commitment campaign highlights its collaboration with businesses and organizations in the country to demonstrate how creating partnerships has helped companies succeed amid various challenges and in turn, contribute to the lives of Filipinos.

The campaign also reinforces PLDT Enterprise’s unbreakable commitment to empowering organizations through technology.

“PLDT Enterprise is a reliable partner that companies can depend on for technologies that will empower their business to overcome the limitations of face-to-face transactions. During these times, companies are left with no choice but to go digital and it is our unbreakable commitment in PLDT Enterprise to value their trust by delivering solutions that will take their business to greater heights,” said Jojo Gendrano, FVP and Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise.

PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT have been instrumental to companies including AirAsia Philippines. as it takes off on its journey to business recovery. The times have been turbulent, and the skies have been dark, but with the help of the right partner who catapulted the business to reach its goals, the business found boundless opportunities onboard. 

Watch AirAsia’s interview here: https://youtu.be/cFtMyPLSkuk

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com. 

CEU opens Smart Online Store in partnership with PLDT Enterprise

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Enterprise recently partnered with Centro Escolar University (CEU) for the opening of the CEU Smart Online Store that will provide connectivity solutions to support the digital learning needs of its students.

CEU Smart Online Store is a dedicated online shop where students and faculty members can easily avail eLearning solutions. The online store offers a wide range of connectivity products and solutions from Smart WIFI Plans to discounted smartphones which they can use for online learning.

PLDT Enterprise Assistant Vice President and Corporate Relationship Management Head for Academe & FMCG Dick Perez said that the company is offering a one-stop solution through the CEU Smart Online Store to support the educational institution’s digital learning efforts.

“We are excited to work with Centro Escolar University as its eLearning partner to empower their students and educators by offering a strong product suite for their digital learning needs. The CEU Smart Online Store will surely provide the best learning experience to their students,” Perez said.

Moreover, PLDT Enterprise Vice President and Enterprise Revenue Group Head Ding V. Villarino said that the CEU Smart Online Store is part of the company’s efforts to enable the country’s education sector as they employ digital learning initiatives to aid students and teachers.

“This partnership with Centro Escolar University is part of our commitment to help schools and universities enhance the learning experience through digital means. A strong and reliable internet is of utmost importance to students and teachers right now. Thus, we are employing the necessary initiatives to alleviate the difficulties they are experiencing online,” Villarino said.

She also noted that by opening the CEU Smart Online Store, the company provides personalized and convenient shopping experiences to students amid stay-at-home protocols.

“This online store is another way for us to bring our products and services closer to our customers at affordable prices,” Villarino added.

CEU President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina expressed her gratitude towards PLDT Enterprise and Smart for their commitment to helping build a stronger CEU through bringing the technologies and solutions to enable their online learning capabilities.

“CEU is grateful to partner with PLDT Enterprise and Smart. Through this partnership, our community will be empowered with the best internet solutions, and our stakeholders can enjoy an enhanced learning experience through PLDT Group’s reliable connectivity,” Padolina said.

PLDT Enterprise and Smart have connected with other educational institutions to provide students access to eLearning solutions and technologies at affordable prices.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com. 

Goldwins Comida Corporation upholds unbreakable commitment to serve customers, community amid crises

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The restaurant industry was among the sectors that suffered the worst from the crises brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the limitations on dine-in services and branches operating at reduced capacity, it easily became one of the hardest-hit sectors, incurring millions of deficits, massive layoffs, and even permanent business closures.

Pauline Bondad, Vice President of Silver Peak Group of Companies (SPGC)

“The previous year, 2020, has been the most challenging year for all of us. Being in a restaurant business where casual dine-in has been the norm, placing the entire country under ECQ was a big blow,” said Pauline Bondad, Vice President of Silver Peak Group of Companies (SPGC).

Over a year and a half passed into the pandemic, SPGC’s restaurants and fast food brands found ways to reinvent their businesses to keep up with the shift due to the series of lockdowns enforced all over the country.

Goldwins Comida Corporation is one of the SPGC companies that challenged themselves to quickly shift gears and confront these difficulties positively.

With all the changes presented to the company, they realized the need to re-center the business and uphold its unbreakable commitment to maintain its core of keeping the best interest of its stakeholders in their operations.

“Amid the test of our times, we gave more importance to living out with our core values. Our core values of selflessness, integrity, loyalty, versatility, excellence, and respect,” Bondad noted.

Having the renewed thrust to serve their community amid the crises, they launched campaigns within the company to provide financial stability and regard the welfare of its employees, while still providing a memorable dining experience to their customers.

“I always believe that the true growth of a company is not only measured by profit but also by the number of employees whose lives it has improved. When times get rough, it is an opportunity to give more significance to our local community,” the SPGC executive said.

Likewise, the company explored more creative and innovative ways to generate income to keep the business afloat and extend service to their customers more efficiently. They strengthened their delivery services to allow patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes even in the comforts of their homes.

The company tapped PLDT Enterprise for connectivity solutions that empower the business with strong and reliable internet to support its store operations.

“PLDT Enterprise has been filling the gap in providing solutions that our company alone cannot provide. Our restaurants need help in reaching out to people and at the same time people reaching to us whenever they order,” Bondad said.

“We at PLDT Enterprise have been assisting companies as they navigate the challenges of the new normal. Through our reliable enterprise solutions, we aim to enable businesses to overcome the difficulties they face with the help of technology. We thank Goldwins Comida Corporation for their continued trust in our capability and we assure them of our commitment to being their reliable partner in solving their modern-day business challenges,” said Jojo Gendrano, FVP and Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise.

PLDT Enterprise recently introduced its Unbreakable Commitment campaign to highlight its partnerships with different organizations in the country to exhibit how collaborations helped companies to thrive amid difficult circumstances and in turn, contribute to the lives of Filipinos.

The campaign also reinforces PLDT Enterprise’s unbreakable commitment to boost the efficiency and productivity of organizations with the use of technology.

The country’s largest fully integrated telecommunications provider has been a constant support to companies such as Goldwins Comida Corporation as it embraces digital transformation to adapt to the evolving business environment.

“PLDT Enterprise’s vision is aligned with our vision. Always prioritizing the guest and employees. Our restaurant needs to be present and preferred by the market to generate sales. We need to market our brand through the help of your technology,” said Bondad.

The restaurant company believes that a successful business needs not only to be efficient and resilient but also responsive to the needs of its employees, customers, and the community it serves. With the help of the right partner, the company is bound to take off to reach new heights and emerge victorious despite the hindrances it may encounter.

“I encourage all of those who are just starting to have their business just to keep on going and pursue; always to make your business sustainable, and for my fellow entrepreneurs, remember to always live your lives with purpose. From the darkness of the pandemic comes the realization that we need to strive harder and move forward to our road of excellence,” Bondad added.

Watch Goldwins Comida Corporation’s interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RrxNcDy7IPs .

To learn more, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Wilcon Depot’s unbreakable commitment to providing comfort, safety to Filipino homes

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As industries came to a halt due to the abrupt shift to the new normal, companies strived to look for ways to advance their business operations to stay buoyant and resilient amid these extraordinary times.

Wilcon Depot Inc. CEO and President Lorraine Belo-Cincochan

With reduced mobility and limited face-to-face transactions, organizations like Wilcon Depot Inc. had to redefine their business to discover how they could better serve Filipinos and effectively outmaneuver the challenges presented by the global health crisis.

“We have seen how the pandemic has changed people’s behaviors from the way they work, study, socialize, and even how they shop,” said Wilcon Depot Inc. CEO and President Lorraine Belo-Cincochan.

The new normal catalyzed unique situations to the company, putting them to the test whether to be swept away by difficulties or innovate and look for ways to pivot amid these present conditions.

“Even as Wilcon faces disruption and changes in the business, we continue to focus on our unbreakable commitment to fulfill our mission of serving and providing the Filipino with access to quality home improvement and building needs,” said Belo-Cincochan.

Leveraging the power of technology, Wilcon had embraced digital innovation, offering innovative services to deliver the needs of their customers who hope to refurbish their homes and provide comfort to their families.

Wilcon enabled their customers to purchase home and building needs through their new and improved e-commerce site and their Wilcon Flagship Store on LazMall. Likewise, they facilitated a Wilcon Virtual Tour service, where customers can explore its available products while in the comfort of their homes.

“Despite the unfavorable situation, we are relentless in thinking of ways and strategies as we continue to serve, bringing forth the introduction of our various shopping services. We endeavored to offer safe and convenient shopping avenues to our valued customers as we want them to feel comfortable yet protected while shopping,” the Wilcon head shared.

Wilcon has recognized the significance of keeping their business running smoothly to efficiently support Filipinos who endeavored to build secure and sturdy homes where they could be comfortable despite the current situation.

With the help of the right partner who shares the same vision of empowering customers’ lives amid the crisis we are facing today, Wilcon successfully beat the challenges of the pandemic while staying true to its commitment to provide for the needs of its stakeholders.

PLDT Enterprise has been a reliable partner for Wilcon, which provided fast and reliable connectivity to power their online transactions, ensuring Wilcon’s vision fulfillment by facilitating their needs cost-effectively

“It is an honor for PLDT Group to be the trusted partner of businesses as they navigate the uncertainties of the new normal. With the continued confidence of our partners, trusting us as their service provider in laying the foundation to a resilient business, we are more dedicated to supporting them in their initiative to improve the lives of Filipinos,” said Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP & Head of PLDT and Smart Enterprise and International Business Groups.

PLDT Enterprise’s Unbreakable Commitment campaign highlights its collaboration with different brands and organizations in the country to exhibit how fostering partnerships has helped companies thrive despite today’s circumstances—and in turn, contribute to the lives of Filipinos.

The campaign also reinforces PLDT Enterprise’s unbreakable commitment to empowering the endeavors of organizations through technology.

The country’s largest fully integrated telecommunications provider has been a driving force to companies such as Wilcon Depot Inc. as it adopts technologies to survive the new digital world.

“We need a partner who will help us grow and ease the business processes and operations during these trying times. And we are grateful to PLDT for being that partner that we can rely on to support and assist us in navigating our digital transformation journey,” said the Wilcon president.

For the home and construction supplies retailer, the goal is to focus on their commitment to fulfill the mission of serving and providing Filipinos with access to quality home improvement and building needs.

Together with PLDT Enterprise, Wilcon Depot Inc. will continue to explore possibilities to thrive in the digital space to efficiently deliver products and services that will secure and comfort Filipino homes amid these trying times.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/qY_tk_yw1GA

To learn more, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Filipino business tycoons champion sustainability programs, practices in PH Digicon 2021

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Filipino business tycoons who spoke before the delegates of the Philippine Digital Convention (PH Digicon) 2021 iterated their commitment to implementing sustainable programs and practices to achieve a triple bottom line.

JG Summit Holdings Inc. President and CEO Lance Gokongwei, Penshoppe Group Chairman and CEO Bernie Liu, PLDT and Smart President and CEO Al Panlilio, Jollibee Group Chief Business Officer Joseph Tanbuntiong, Alliance Global Group Inc. CEO Kevin L. Tan and Century Pacific Food, Inc. Executive Chairman Chris Po

In the second plenary session of this year’s PH Digicon, Al Panlilio, President and CEO, PLDT Group; Lance Gokongwei, President and CEO of JG Summit Holdings; Bernie Liu, Chairman and CEO of the Penshoppe Group; Christopher Po, Executive Chairman of Century Pacific Food, Inc.; Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global Group Inc.; and Joseph Tanbuntiong, Chief Business Officer of Jollibee Group led the discussion on the revolutionary changes in the Philippine business landscape.

Panlilio said that sustainability is one of his fulcrums and has been a part of PLDT’s business model for years, incorporating sustainable development in their strategies to align their initiatives to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

The PLDT Head said they launched the country’s first carbon fiber cell tower, which has reduced carbon dioxide emission by up to 70 percent compared to steel. He also mentioned the group’s aim to use renewable energy sources to bring down power consumption and boost energy efficiency for their data centers.

“What is core to business is what matters most in terms of sustainability, and hopefully, every employee in PLDT-Smart understands and appreciates their contribution to that effort. It’s a big task, big programs, but we have to do it,” said Panlilio.

For Jollibee, meanwhile, Tanbuntiong said they have been reducing waste by shifting from disposable to reusable wares and turning to biodegradable options such as paper for their packaging.

“We are also looking into the renewable energy sources for some of our stores and our manufacturing sites… Outside of the environment, we also look at the society and looking at segments that we can help, and can have an impact,” the Jollibee executive said.

Moreover, for Alliance Global Group CEO Kevin Tan, the business has been set up to not be a profit-centric company but also to aim for a triple bottom line which includes environmental sustainability and social impact.

“Our goal, our new guidance aside from our profits, is that we want to be carbon-neutral by 2035, which means that among other efforts, we need to shift to 100% renewable energy, and this has to start right away and be done in phases over the next 5 to 6 years… This is a very challenging feat, but we are committed to it,” Tan underscored.

Tan also shared that they are committed to generating over five million direct and indirect jobs in the next 15 years; thus, they heavily invest in industries that can produce the most jobs and multipliers in job creation, such as business process outsourcing and tourism sector.

Likewise, for the clothing brand Penshoppe, Liu shared that waste in the retail and the fashion business has been labeled as one of the biggest polluters. He said that excesses end up in dumpsites “because the consciousness of waste is not there among many brand owners and retailers.”

Liu highlighted that reducing waste is something they take seriously by adopting global standards on the number of stock-keeping units and inventory.

“We believe strongly that we minimize waste not only in the consumption but in the way that unnecessary fabrics are produced, and unnecessary garments, and that whatever we do acquire ends up in the closets of our customers and not in the dumpsites,” Liu said.

Furthermore, for Century Pacific Food, Po said they integrate the sustainability mindset in their day-to-day business by following the Three P’s framework, which refers to Protein, People, and Planet.

“Protein is our product. Our food product is the way we touch the rest of the community; thus, we look at the type of nutrition and ingredients we put into our products to develop a healthier product portfolio… We’re also mindful of the number of jobs we create… and then finally, Planet is our manufacturing footprint as a food manufacturer,” Po noted.

Additionally, for JG Summit Holdings, Gokongwei said they acknowledge the significance of sustainability; thus, they integrate this in their management process.

“For us, the most important thing is to put sustainability first and foremost into the board’s agenda; we try to do this first by benchmarking and measuring what we have, second is to set targets,” Gokongwei said.

He also added that their sustainability practice follows the UN SDG, which centers on five objectives: shared success, resource secularity and resource efficiency, education and development, providing better choices, and climate action.

The Philippine Digital Convention is the most prestigious digital thought leadership event hosted by PLDT Enterprise. Titled “REVOLUTION”, this year’s PH Digicon which ran from October 6 to 8 featured over 120 industry leaders and experts, sharing their expertise on topics such as technology predictions, industry evolution, emerging technologies, among others.

Relive the three-day convention like no other via content on-demand available exclusively on phdigicon2021.com.

PH Digicon 2021 power panel highlights embracing revolutionary technology

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Featured power panelists of the REVOLUTION: Philippine Digital Convention 2021 Day 1 Plenary Session imparted significant insights and takeaways on embracing revolutionary technology as a means to thrive and serve the shifting needs of their customers in the post-pandemic world.

Part of the power panel of the digital convention’s Plenary Session which happened last October 6 were Yasuo Suzuki, President of NTT Global Data Centers; John Harrington, Nokia Senior Vice President and Head of the Asia Pacific and Japan; Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, Dave West, President of Cisco Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China; and Nicholas Ma, Huawei Asia Pacific Enterprise Business Group Head.

Pangilinan discussed key perspectives to the delegates, along with other industry leaders in technology. He says companies nowadays are measured on sustainability and digitalization or their adaptability to technology which is “no longer a luxury but an imperative.”

“We have to persuade senior management that it’s important to adopt digital technology because you will be obsolete if you don’t do that. And values are now driven by your ability to do your digital pivot, especially if you are a publicly-listed company,” said Pangilinan.

The MPIC head, who also chairs the PLDT Group, added that businesses need to adapt to innovation to leverage the revolutionary solutions of tech companies.

“We’re seeing revolution happening across the board for businesses, so it’s our job to be able to encourage if not push them into that space. The enterprise group should provide the solutions to these companies in their pivotal switch…They need somebody to tell them what to do…,” Pangilinan noted.

Huawei executive Nicholas Ma said that as time goes on, “networks will become self-organizing, self-healing, self-optimizing, and autonomous,” allowing enterprises to access intelligent connectivity with more straightforward and secure service to organizations.

“The technology is always working for the people and the entire organization. With the revolutionary technology, we hope our customers and the people can live a simple, personalized, and secure life with ICT technology,” said Ma.

Meanwhile, Suzuki highlighted that NTT Global Data Centers is constantly looking to develop more efficient data centers while maintaining sustainability. With their long history of world-class networking products and services, he said that NTT is well-positioned to lead the industry amid the demand for additional capacity.

Likewise, Harrington noted the role of Nokia in allowing the world to act together through the use of critical networks that are secure and trusted.

He said that 5G is more than just a faster experience for consumers but is about bringing digitization, productivity, and growth to industrial sectors suffering from low growth even before the pandemic.

“Nokia’s off to a great start in terms of leadership with over 240 commercial 5G agreements,” the Nokia executive said.

For Cisco, West shared that their purpose is creating an inclusive future and building technology that allows people to be included no matter who they are, where they are, or how they work.

“Our technology is built in a way that enables people to feel included, and it is core to our cultural beliefs as a company… As we think about next-generation technology, it is providing connectivity to the unconnected, how we create technology and innovation, and how we use technologies to do the right things and provide capabilities for innovation,” West said.

The Philippine Digital Convention is the most prestigious digital thought leadership event hosted by PLDT Enterprise. Titled “REVOLUTION”, this year’s PH Digicon featured over 120 industry leaders and experts, sharing their expertise on topics such as technology predictions, industry evolution, emerging technologies, among others.

Relive the three-day convention like no other via content on-demand available exclusively on phdigicon2021.com.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com. 

PLDT underscores innovation as key for businesses to succeed in the post-pandemic era

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Businesses need to be agile across their operations and participate in digital ecosystems to succeed in the post-pandemic world according to the country’s largest integrated telecommunications provider PLDT.

PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio

During the recent Franchise Asia Philippines Virtual International Conference, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio stressed that Filipinos need to embrace resilience and adaptability to overcome the difficulties brought by the pandemic.

“It has become imperative to adapt and act fast—pivoting processes and operations to survive, and build resilience for a sustainable future ahead,” said Panlilio.

The PLDT executive said that the past year had presented the significance of digital transformation in every industry, which now redefines how businesses operate. Panlilio said companies strived to digitize their core processes by putting digital transformation on the top of their priority list as a long-term investment.

“It is the incubation of technology, purpose, and balance that drives people growth, business strategies, and sustainability. At the center of it all is still the customer. Hence, it is imperative to go beyond the hype of new technologies and discover how they can shape our future,” he added.

Given this scenario, PLDT and Smart have been leveraging digital technology and a robust network to deliver a world-class customer experience at the forefront of breakthrough innovations in the telco industry.

“PLDT and Smart are establishing programs that can effectively identify, evaluate, and incubate digitization to transform ourselves. By doing so, we are also creating new opportunities and harnessing advanced technologies to chart a path to the next horizon, mindful of our civic duty to help with economic recovery and overall nation-building,” Panlilio said.

Likewise, he mentioned PLDT’s continuous investment in network bandwidth capacity and fast-tracking of its fiber rollout, which has already reached over 524,000 km as of June 2021, a 22 percent increase compared to last year.

The group, through its B2B arm PLDT Enterprise, also continues to upgrade its network of 10 globally certified data center facilities to serve the hyperscaler market. PLDT is optimistic that making the Philippines a strategic hyperscaler hub in the Asia Pacific will propel the country to be the region’s next digital destination of choice by hyperscalers.

“PLDT and Smart continuously support Filipino enterprises by providing them with the best solutions available, exemplifying the most innovative digital transformation, enabling e-Industries, and empowering businesses in all shapes and sizes to evolve and thrive in this new operating condition,” he concluded.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Brooke’s Point, Palawan leapfrogs on improved connectivity experience with PLDT

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(Brooke’s Point, Palawan - October 18, 2021) Brooke’s Point Mayor Georjalyn Joy Quiachon highlighted the importance of a reliable internet connection to the municipality of Brooke’s Point, Palawan as a first-class and fast-growing town with a robust agri-tourism industry as PLDT, through its B2B arm PLDT Enterprise, deployed its BEYOND FIBER solution.

The initiative is a testament to PLDT’s commitment to support local government units in adapting to the new normal for the delivery of public service, governance, and extending services to their respective constituents.

“Amid our rapidly changing environment, I couldn’t stress enough the importance of staying connected to manage the negative impacts of the pandemic effectively. We thank PLDT Enterprise for offering their assistance in our bid to cope in these trying times,” Quiachon said.

PLDT Enterprise Head for SMBiz Regional Luzon Euan Rex Toralballa said that the Municipality of Brooke’s Point is part of PLDT’s new fiber-optic expansion in the Southern Part of Palawan.

“With our ongoing fiber-optic expansion, PLDT seeks to provide strong and reliable connectivity to far-flung areas to support the day-to-day activities of residents in various communities. With the BEYOND FIBER solution, we could help them overcome the challenges in connectivity and enable a seamless digital experience,” said Toralballa.

He also added that PLDT Enterprise’s BEYOND FIBER is the best-suited service for Brooke’s Point local government. It is an all-in-one solution anchored on business-grade fiber, capable of sustaining the online operations of offices, branches, and small-scale businesses.

It features the 90-90 advantage which provides organizations a minimum bandwidth speed at 90 percent of the subscribed speed at 90 percent reliability—providing a more reliable online experience, while easing the fear of downtime during peak work hours.

“The Municipal Government of Brooke’s Point will now experience a fixed-fiber optic internet service. This is for the daily administrative activities and services for their constituents,” Toralballa added.

PLDT Enterprise Vice President for Small and MicroBiz Chito Franco said that PLDT is committed to extending solutions and services to local and municipal governments to efficiently deliver COVID-19 relief.

“As the country’s leading telecommunications provider, it is our mandate to assist local and municipal governments as they realize their vision and goals for their communities. We are dedicated to helping them through technologies which could fully equip them as they cope with this ongoing crisis,” said Franco.

As a primarily agro-industrial municipality with vast productive farmlands, the local government of Brooke’s Point is investing heavily in its potential to flourish in agri-tourism.

Its strategic location and development as an open port hopes to attract the influx of tourists from the Brunei-Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) region, aside from its potential to spur exportation of agricultural products from the area due to it being now part of the nautical highway.

The improved connectivity would not only benefit its citizens but also the local government to fast-track and upgrade services as they hope to close the gap for the people in far-flung areas.

“We welcome innovative ideas and adapt in the fast-changing environment as new technology is introduced… For us, there’s no way but up – always looking forward as we drive the municipality of Brooke’s Point to a better future with intelligent and healthy citizenry,” Mayor Quiachon said.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com. 

CHAMP Cargosystems PH signs with PLDT Enterprise for ePLDT Calling activation

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CHAMP Cargosystems—the most successful global IT provider dedicated to the needs of the air cargo industry, providing integrated services for cargo carriers and their distribution partners worldwide —recently signed a strategic partnership with PLDT Enterprise, together with its ICT arm ePLDT, for services that would enable their international offices to be more operationally agile and connected amidst the changing demands of the new normal business landscape.

The IT solutions company is the first onboarded customer of ePLDT Calling for Microsoft Teams, a cloud-based phone system that allows businesses to combine their communication and collaboration systems in a single platform.

This hybrid telephony and video conferencing solution is designed by ePLDT highlighting the integrated features of Microsoft Teams, robustness of PLDT SIP connectivity and reliability of VITRO Data Center. Now employees, customers and stakeholders can call, chat and connect together real-time and seamlessly.

In over seven global offices of CHAMP Cargosystems with more than 450 employees worldwide, this solution will help ensure quality reliable calls with built-in security and privacy from Microsoft 365.

“This partnership with PLDT Enterprise will allow us to achieve our goals in providing accelerated IT solutions, services and support for our air cargo and aviation regulator customers. In the air cargo industry context, it is imperative to have reliable, fast, and secure connectivity and communication services that will allow us to collaborate faster and do our business optimally. We believe that PLDT Enterprise is the perfect partner for that,” said Philips Manalaysay, Managing Director of CHAMP Cargosystems Philippines.

CHAMP Cargosystems provides services to over 100 airlines and 200 customers worldwide, including GSAs and Forwarders, over 300 handling stations, more than 1,500 stations spanning across 100 countries, over 3,000 connected forwarders, and over 15,000 users worldwide. Members of the CHAMP community can exchange information securely using industry standards processes and formats, with over 300 million processed messages and 20 million shipments annually. CHAMP Cargosystems’ applications portfolio spans core cargo systems, enterprise systems and community and distribution services, compliance services as well freight forwarding solutions.

“We are pleased to kickstart this partnership with CHAMP Cargosystems Philippines. PLDT Enterprise always values the trust and support of our clients and we commit to providing excellent services that would propel them towards meeting their goals,” said Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP & Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups.

With ePLDT’s ICT expertise and Microsoft 365 certifications, CHAMP Cargosystems is assured that its groundbreaking solution ePLDT Calling for Microsoft Teams is professionally implemented and supported and shall be continually enhanced.

“It is our aspiration to fortify our enterprise accounts of the best ICT and connectivity solutions that will maximize their business capabilities. Such is our dedication to CHAMP Cargosystems. We thank you for your patronage and trust, and you can anchor your long-term plans with PLDT Enterprise,” said Vic Tria, PLDT First Vice President and Enterprise Revenue Group Head

For more information, visit epldt.com

#PHDigicon2020 tackles the IMPACT of digital on the new future of work

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 Philippine Digital Convention 2020: The first fully-virtual event gathers global industry leaders 

(Manila, Philippines) PLDT Enterprise has recently concluded its annual Philippine Digital Convention (PH Digicon), garnering overall positive responses from its delegates across various industries. PH Digicon has been regarded as the country’s premier and most anticipated thought leadership gathering of C-level executives, business owners, and key decision makers from companies of all sizes to discuss the latest and emerging technologies. On its sixth year, convention carried the theme “IMPACT” which is particularly relevant during this time as the convention presented innovative technological solutions to address the challenges enterprises face today in the New Future of Work. 

In the convention’s latest iteration, PLDT Enterprise made history as it brought together local and global digital thought leaders and industry pioneers in a fully virtual setting to engage with delegates as they share insights on the latest technologies that can help drive technological enablement among enterprises throughout the region. Also featured were emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT, cyber security, cloud, specific industry solutions, among others, that will pave the way for enterprises to pivot towards success in the new future of work.

Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT’s President & CEO and SVP for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups, officially opened the three-day convention with a visual feast by showcasing the capabilities of the digital venue’s immersive platform as he gave the delegates an executive summary on what this year’s theme is all about. 

“IMPACT is both a recognition and a call to action. We are living in one of the most pivotal points of human history and every choice we make today will impact the world for generations to come,” said Hernandez. 

PLDT’s Chairman and CEO, Manuel V. Pangilinan underscored the language of IMPACT as it resonates with contemporary circumstances in his keynote presentation. 

“This year’s Digicon aims to supply a wider access to global best practices and prepare ourselves for a tougher and difficult future,” Pangilinan said, “but our message is one of hope, that these times call for people of purpose and commitment. We adapt or exit, pivot or perish, and make a positive impact on the lives of people” 

Headlining Day One’s plenary session was Chuck Robbins, Chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, a global leader in ICT and Digital Collaboration solutions. He said that people now work from home en masse, and discussed the interrelation of technology, leadership and impact in a fireside chat with Cathy Yang, PLDT’s FVP and Group Head for Corporate Communications and the official host and moderator of PH Digicon 2020. PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan joined the chat, reiterating that the partnership between PLDT and Cisco is further strengthened in these crucial times, and will be expanded as we prepare for a hybrid world. 

Concluding the first day plenary session was a fireside chat between Ms. Yang and PH Digicon 2020 celebrity headline speaker Academy Award-winning actress and founder & CEO of goop Gwyneth Paltrow. 

Paltrow shared her personal experiences as a business leader and at the same time as a mother and actress, and gave interesting insights on how her company strives to make an IMPACT to its patrons even amid the pandemic. “Now is a very strange moment to be alive,” said Paltrow. “As a person, I always try to find the blessing in everything. From a business perspective, we went back to our content root in goop and focused on being of service.” 

PH Digicon 2020 also featured breakout sessions during its three-day run. 

Breakout Sessions of Day One discussed the available and emerging technologies enterprises may leverage on for their business and explored the following pillars: 

Powering the Next Workplace Transformation highlighting BEYOND FIBER, Unified Collaboration, and SD-WAN;  

Industry 5.0 highlighting 5G and IOT;  

Centers of Resilience highlighting Data Center, Managed Operations Center, Service Operations Center, and Cloud Applications. 

Day Two of PH Digicon 2020 opened with a triad presentation, by PLDT Enterprise’s VP and Head of ICT Business Nico Alcoseba, FVP and Head of Enterprise Core Business Solutions Jojo Gendrano, and VP and Head of Enterprise Digital Solutions John Gonzales, on the degrees of IMPACT in transitioning to e-work thru the emergence of e-industries such as eLearning, eCommerce, eBanking, eGovernment, eHealth, eManufacturing & eLogistics, eTravel & Tourism, and eBPO – topics that were discussed in the breakout sessions for days two and three.

Al Panlilio, President and CEO of Smart Communications Inc. and Chief Revenue Officer of PLDT, Inc., also presented in the convention and juxtaposed the similarities of sports and business. “There is a single-word answer as to the goal of sports: Win. While the methodology might be complex—training, nutrition, memorizing plays, forming a capable team—the usual goal of playing is simply winning. What does winning look like? A satisfied customer. It is simple and true. Customer satisfaction is to our business as winning is to sports.” 

“Reimagine Possible. Create Positive Impact for Enterprise” by Sanjay Kaul, President for Asia Pacific and Japan of Cisco Systems followed Panlilio’s talk. He discussed the unprecedented global change that was brought about by the pandemic, mentioning that Cisco in partnership with PLDT is creating a next generation digital network platform enabled by 5G, multi-cloud, and SDN focused on value creation among enterprises. 

This was followed by Nokia President and CEO Pekka Lundmark’s “The Rock N’ Roll IMPACT of Industry 4.0,” who said that Nokia always has IMPACT as top of mind. He says that the world has seen significant megatrends, wherein connectivity needs to be dynamic and networks have to be elastic. “One size fits all connectivity is no longer good enough. The most promising applications such as virtual reality, Industrial IoT and so on require more elastic networks in order to give individual users what they want, when they want it." 

David Schmaier, Salesforce Industries CEO, discussed “Digital Transformation: a Point of Impact Across Industries,” saying that all industries have now gone online. Home delivery, telehealth, online loan applications have become the norm, and Salesforce recognizes that each industry is different hence the need for digital transformation using Industry Cloud. He highlighted Salesforce’s Industry 360 that delivers tailored, purpose-built cloud solutions according to the different requirements and needs of industries such as media, telecommunications, health, financial services, education, among others. 

NTT Research President and CEO Mr. Kazuhiro Gomi closed the Day 2 of Plenary Session and explained “The Impact of Basic Research: Looking Beyond the Horizon.” He reiterates the need for fundamental research, and that NTT is committed to carry out advanced research for impactful technologies such as encryption and data security. 

His topic also touched on the topic of upgrading reality - a glimpse into breakthrough technologies that NTT Research is currently working on that could further help speed up digital transformations. “From the connected world, obviously we want to exchange more data among each other, but we have to make sure that security and privacy are maintained. We have to have those things together to get the best out of a connected world," Gomi says. 

The three-day event was made possible by PLDT Enterprise’s Keystone sponsors: Cisco, Nokia and Salesforce. Diamond Sponsors were Multisys, Palo Alto Networks and Samsung; Platinum Sponsors were Aruba, Dell Technologies, FiberHome, Fortinet Inc and Microfocus. Checkpoint Philippines, Enghouse Interactive and Fujitsu Philippines were Gold Sponsors, and Commscope, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Microsoft, NetFoundry and Soprano Design were PH Digicon 2020 Silver Sponsors. 

All sponsors were present at the Virtual Exhibit Hall, where delegates had the chance to digitally visit each booth, chat with company representatives for business networking, watch technology use-case videos, and browse or download brochures. Other networking opportunities in the virtual platform also allowed delegates to engage with speakers, sponsors, and fellow delegates.

Over 4,600 international delegates from the Asia Pacific region attended this year’s PH Digicon, 1,200 of which were composed of C-level executives and decision makers. It was also graced by over 2,500 participating companies and headlined by more than 100 thought leaders and industry experts across the region. During its three-day run, it aired virtual plenary and breakout sessions that ran for 27 hours in total. 

Delegates also shared some of their positive responses on how the convention allowed them to learn insights on utilizing technology for their businesses. “Despite the pandemic, I'm glad PLDT was able to connect each one of us together with an online conference,” shared Emiliano Romano of Redstar Asia Solutions Inc., one of the delegates of this year’s convention. Valerie Silverio of University of Perpetual Help System DALTA-Calamba also echoed this statement, saying, “This convention is really the best despite the pandemic. Nothing beats how technology provides and changes our lives in some other way." 

Haidee Enriquez of Sitel Philippines Corporation also expressed her awe in the immersive platform used in the convention. “#PHDigicon2020 delivers a great participant experience, even in a fully virtual set-up. Substantial content, engaging format, highly interactive, and fun!” Indeed, PH Digicon 2020 has set the new standard for virtual events in the country, surpassing expectations from its previous iterations during the last five years. 

PH Digicon 2020 was organized by the PLDT Enterprise, the B2B arm of the largest and only integrated telecommunications company in the Philippines, PLDT. 

For more information on Philippine Digital Convention 2020, visit pldtenterprise.com/phdigicon2020.

JoyRide And Happy Move collaborate with PLDT Enterprise to expand business operations

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(Manila, Philippines - June 2020) In line with its vision to make a positive impact on every single business, PLDT Enterprise enables the expansion of JoyRide and Happy Move’s business operations through its connectivity services.

JoyRide and Happy Move tie up with PLDT Enterprise to equip their drivers and riders with communication and connectivity solutions they can utilize for daily operations.

JoyRide and Happy Move, a motorcycle ride-hailing firm that has innovated to become a delivery service, tie up with PLDT Enterprise to equip their drivers and riders with communication and connectivity solutions they can utilize for daily operations.

During the enhanced community quarantine, JoyRide and Happy Move partnered with different LGUs to give opportunities to tricycle drivers for alternative livelihood as delivery riders for the said apps. Around 10,000 tricycle drivers and other riders have been given livelihood, as JoyRide and Happy Move saw the need to change its platform to point-to-point (P2P) delivery and concierge service (JoyRide Pabili). 

“Our latest project with the local government units, the tricycle drivers conversion to independent delivery service providers, is a further testament to the commitment of JoyRide and Happy Move to assist public and private entities in creating jobs and livelihood opportunities during this pandemic. JoyRide and Happy Move will continue to be a true partner and “kasundo” of the Filipino in good times and in bad,” said Noli Eala, JoyRide Vice President for Corporate Affairs.

During the enhanced community quarantine, JoyRide and Happy Move partnered with different LGUs to give opportunities to tricycle drivers for alternative livelihood as delivery riders for the said apps.

Through its new partnership with PLDT Enterprise, JoyRide and Happy Move riders and bikers will now enjoy the benefits of Smart Bizload—where they can receive prepaid loads quickly using the platform to aid their communication requirements while doing deliveries.

PLDT Enterprise, together with Soprano, also provided Joyride and Happy Move with Smart Messaging Suite Service focused on enabling secure registration of new Joyride customers as well as text blasts for their customers. 

“We at PLDT Enterprise continue to commit to being of service to Filipinos while fighting COVID-19,” said Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups. “These services will enable Joyride and Happy Move to blast news and announcements to our riders and help make their delivery service accessible and efficiently to those who need it.”

JoyRide and Happy Move have recently widened its ecosystem by tying up with local government units (LGUs) such as Antipolo, Valenzuela, Binangonan and Bacoor, to partnering with local institutions to broaden its rider base. 

“Among the many sectors of society most affected by the coronavirus pandemic has been the motorcycle taxi service sector. The need to provide immediate relief to our thousands of rider partners forced JoyRide and Happy Move to pivot our business model to a multi service, on-demand mobile delivery application,” Eala added.

This initiative is another addition to the ongoing efforts of PLDT Enterprise in enabling the private sector with connectivity and digital solutions amid the challenges posed by the community quarantine.

“We applaud JoyRide and Happy Move that amidst the job losses these past months, they have given hope to many riders. Their delivery services have been in great demand since the pandemic, and PLDT Enterprise’s solutions have enabled JoyRide and Happy Move to ensure strong connectivity and reliable service,” Hernandez added.

For more information, go to pldtenterprise.com.

PLDT Enterprise leads digital transformation discussions at the 2016 Philippine ICT Leadership Convention: Digital Now!

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Philippine companies get a chance this week to take a hard look at how digital technologies are changing the rules of the game for their businesses at the 2016 Philippine ICT Leadership Convention.

PLDT Executives and partners open the technology exhibit at the 2016 Philippine ICT Leadership Convention. Shown in photo from left to right: ePLDT Chief Operating Officer Nerisse Ramos, PLDT Executive Vice President and ePLDT CEO Eric R. Alberto, PLDT ALPHA First Vice President and Head Jovy Hernandez, IDC Asia Pacific Managing Director Dr. Christopher Holmes, and Cisco Philippines Country Manager Louie Castaneda.

Hosted by PLDT Enterprise, the corporate business group of PLDT, the convention will run from June 20 to 21 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom Manila and will focus on how disruptive technologies collectively called “SMACS” – short for Social, Mobility, Analytics, Cloud and Security – are reshaping the strategies of enterprises and organizations.

Invited to the convention are top level executives, business leaders, and decision makers from the country’s leading enterprises across various industries. Presented in association with premier global market intelligence provider IDC, the convention will provide these business leaders with in-depth information on the future of the digital enterprise and the breakthrough technologies that will prominently figure in their business roadmap.

“Today, going digital is no longer just an option for enterprises and organizations. The Philippine ICT Leadership Convention will highlight the strategic challenges and opportunities that digital technologies present to Philippine companies,” said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. 

“As consumers become digitally-connected regardless of demographic, enterprises must also transform themselves by leveraging on new technologies to change the way they operate, and more importantly, to transform the way they engage with their customers and employees. The convention will help enterprises make this shift and usher in a more digitally-empowered Philippines,” he added.

Aside from presentations by industry leaders and technology experts, the 2-day convention will also allow guests to experience various digital technologies within the enterprise environment through workshops, exhibits, and plenary discussions.

“The advent of new digital platforms has introduced disruptive technologies that are changing the way enterprises are interacting with consumers and the digital world. Through the convention, PLDT, along with industry leaders, will provide our insights to serve as a knowledge base for enterprises, enable them to take advantage of these disruptive technologies, and promote growth in their businesses,” said PLDT Executive Vice President and ePLDT CEO Eric R. Alberto.

Attendees can also participate in breakout workshops focused on specific technology tracks that include Data Center and Cloud, Big Data and Analytics, M2M and Internet of Things, Digital Engagement, Cyber security, and Unified Communications and Collaboration. These topics, designed to provide a holistic approach to the benefits of technology tracks to enterprises, will enable participants to better understand the solutions that are at their disposal, and how these can significantly impact their businesses.