Chevron Renews Partnership with Edukasyon.ph to Offer Training and Employment Support for Scholars in Cloud Computing through AWS re/Start program

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Chevron Philippines Inc (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants, has signed a partnership once again with Edukasyon.ph to offer cloud computing training and employment support for disadvantaged individuals through the AWS re/Start program.

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) has renewed its partnership with Edukasyon.PH to offer training and employment assistance to underserved individuals through the AWS re/Start program. (From left to right: Jason Gaisono, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Sophia Isabelle C. Fontanilla, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Raissa Bautista, Corporate Affairs Manager CPI, and Joel Gaviola, Corporate Affairs Advisor CPI.)

The collaboration between Chevron and Edukasyon.ph underscored their shared commitment to the educational development of underserved individuals.

Forty-eight scholars graduated from the last batch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start program in the high-growth field of cloud computing. These scholars completed the program with distinction and acquired valuable technical skills in designing, managing, and optimizing cloud infrastructures, which are increasingly in demand. For the second batch, Edukasyon.ph aims to enroll 50 students in the program supported by Chevron Philippines.

Cloud computing has become a vital component for businesses of all sizes, leading to increased demand in the tech industry. Enhancing the skills of professionals in this field is essential to ensure that Filipinos, both in the Philippines and around the world, develop the specialized knowledge and expertise required.

AWS re/Start is a cohort-based workforce development training program designed to prepare individuals for careers in the cloud and connect them with potential employers. No prior technology experience is required to apply. The program is free for participants and specifically aims to assist unemployed or underemployed individuals in launching new careers

With guidance from professional mentors and accredited instructors, participants gain a strong foundation in cloud computing that prepares them for entry-level cloud jobs. The training covers essential programming, networking, security, and relational database skills through real-world scenarios, hands-on labs, and coursework. Graduates from collaborating organization possess not only technical skills but also professional competencies, and they have earned an AWS Certification, a recognized credential that validates their cloud computing expertise.

“We are very grateful to Chevron Philippines for their continued support. Programs like this are quite costly, and their external support allows us to develop additional cohorts, enabling more students to participate and benefit from upskilling opportunities. We are also thrilled to have the opportunity to renew our partnership with Chevron,” said Sophia Fontanilla, Board member of Edukasyon.ph

Edukasyon.ph and Chevron Philippines executives during the MOU signing 

Chevron and Edukasyon.ph executives pose for a group photo in front of Chevron’s photo wall.

“Reflecting on the success of last year’s cohort, we at Chevron Philippines firmly believe that cloud computing is crucial for shaping the future for aspiring Filipino professionals. We are deeply committed to supporting education and improving livelihoods for disadvantaged groups. We also extend our gratitude to Edukasyon.ph for this partnership, which will help us upskill more individuals.” said Raissa Bautista, CPI Corporate Affairs Manager.

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About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and growing lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

Visa collaborates with Good Transport and GHL to enable contactless payments in Cebu and Mandaue City modern jeepneys in first transit project in the Philippines

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Visa, a world leader in digital payments, is collaborating with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), a transit mobility solutions provider, and GHL, a leading nationwide payment service provider and payment acquirer. This collaboration has enabled the use of Visa cards for payments on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, the second biggest city in Cebu.

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Visa cards can be used to pay on modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City, creating a seamless transit experience and inclusive acceptance for daily commuters and tourists in the Philippines

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The initiative kicked off today with an official launch ceremony at the Cebu IT Park Transport Terminal, with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI) working in partnership with local transport operators, Lahug Apas Transport Cooperative (LATRANSCO) and Mandaue Transport Cooperative (MTC), to launch 120 modern jeepneys in Cebu and 20 modern jeepneys in Mandaue City. The onboard terminals in these vehicles now accept Visa payments. This initiative, part of a pilot project, signifies Visa's commitment to promoting transit acceptance in the Philippines with plans to expand to more modes of transit in coming years.

Jeffrey Navarro Talking: Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines. The pilot signifies Visa’s commitment to promote transit acceptance in the country with plans to expand to more modes of transit in the coming years.

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: "We are thrilled to unveil Visa's inaugural transit project in the Philippines. This initiative aims to enhance the travel experience for daily commuters and tourists in Mandaue City by offering a wider array of payment options. As tourism in the Philippines rebounds, we have observed a growth in inbound tourism and this partnership will make the transit experience more seamless for tourists. The future of transit, both globally and within the Philippines, is poised to create inclusivity through open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit, and will be centered around providing commuters with seamless, convenient, and secure payment options.”

Visa Card on Contactless Machine: Visa cards can now be used in select Cebu City and Mandaue City modern jeepneys, providing commuters with more seamless, convenient, and secure payment options.

In February 2024, Cebu experienced a 69% year-on-year increase in visitors, welcoming 104,439 tourists, according to the Department of Tourism[1]. Meanwhile, Mandaue City, a popular tourist destination in Cebu, recorded 228,472 tourist arrivals between January and September 2022[2]. With such strong tourism growth, the ability to use Visa cards on public transit significantly enhances convenience, as travelers increasingly prefer secure, contactless digital payments. Visa's Global Travel Intentions Study highlights this shift, revealing that 97% of Asia Pacific travelers plan to use card payments (credit, debit, or prepaid) on their trips, while only 17% intend to carry foreign currency (cash)[3].

Brezhnev Tero, CEO, Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI), said: “We are proud to partner with Visa and GHL to bring the first-of-its-kind contactless payment solution to the Philippines’ transport sector through our Transport Mobility Solution, the Bus Revenue Tracker System (BRTS). This groundbreaking collaboration not only revolutionizes fare collection with enhanced efficiency and security but also redefines the commuter experience. By leading the way in transport innovation, we are making every journey smoother, faster, and more convenient, setting a new standard for public transport in the country.”

Ceremonial Tapping: [L-R] Gary Lauriano, BOD, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Brezhnev Tero, CEO, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Randolph Ian Clet, DOTr Project Manager; MS. Judy Dela Cruz Gabato, DOT 7 Chief Tourism Operations Officer; MR. Jeff Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines; Ceasar Michelena, Chairman, Good Transport Solutions, Inc; Jay Tirona, CEO of GHL Systems Philippines Inc., at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines in partnership with GTSI and GHL Systems Philippines. The project enables contactless payments in 120 modern jeepneys in Cebu City and 20 in Mandaue City.

Jay Tirona, CEO, GHL Systems Philippines Inc, said: “This partnership is an exciting example of how technology and digital innovation in payments can come together positively for the private and public sectors, and ultimately, for the benefit of Filipinos who ride these jeepneys every day. These efficiencies drive social and economic change and we need to start with a focused approach, which I believe will eventually and inevitably be adapted across public transport systems nationwide.”

Event: Visa Philippines, together with its partners GTSI, GHL, and representatives from the local government at the launch of Visa’s first transit project in the Philippines that aims to simplify public transit payments by introducing a contactless payment option on select modern jeepneys in Cebu City and Mandaue City.

Faster and more seamless travel through a cashless, open-loop system

The rapid urbanization across Asia Pacific, with 120,000 people moving to cities daily, has underscored the need for efficient public transit systems. Governments, including the Philippines, are investing in these systems as part of their strategies to mitigate road congestion, with a focus on simplifying public transit payments and increasing digital payment options.

Visa’s Global Urban Mobility survey found that 58% of commuters favor a unified payment method for all transport modes, as currently half of them use four or more different methods each month[4]. Meanwhile, another Visa survey[5] showed that implementing open-loop, contactless payment systems in public transit agencies creates a faster, safer, and more hygienic payment experience. Such a system promotes inclusivity and accessibility in public transit, even for those without access to traditional banking services, with modern payment systems simplifying fare processes for transit agencies, reducing costs and mitigating financial risks.

“With Visa making access to payments more inclusive, we are glad to be moving the needle in embracing innovative systems such as the open-loop payment system which significantly enhances the commuting experience for all,” Navarro added. “This approach not only makes urban mobility more efficient and secure but ensures that everyone, especially those underserved by traditional banking services, has access to seamless and reliable public transportation.”

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[1] Department of Tourism, Feb 2024 Inbound Tourism Update. http://www.tourism.gov.ph/files/2024/tourism_demand/04/Inbound/04-08/February%202024%20arrivals%20(as%20of%2005%20Mar%202024).pdf

[2] “Cebu’s tourist arrivals reach 1.8M in 9 months”, December 2022. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/cebus-tourist-arrivals-reach-18m-in-9-months

[3] “Contactless payments, experiential travel top Asia Pacific travel needs”, November 2023. https://www.visa.com.sg/about-visa/blog/bdp/2023/11/27/contactless-payments-experiential-1701068432525.html

[4] “Choice, Convenience, Contactless: Future of Public Transit in Asia Pacific”, October 2023. https://www.visa.com.sg/about-visa/blog/bdp/2023/10/01/choice-convenience-contactless-1696130103907.html

[5] Visa Economic Empowerment Institute (VEEI) and ThoughtLab. “Reimagining ridership: Open-loop payments and the future of urban mobility”, 2023. https://usa.visa.com/content/dam/VCOM/regional/na/us/sites/documents/veei-reimagining-ridership.pdf

Grab launches Advance Booking, eases airport transport for PH travelers with guaranteed on-time rides

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Hitting the road whether for leisure travel across the Philippines or sealing business deals overseas can be a daunting endeavor. The pre-travel stress between the epic suitcase shuffle and the documents paranoia can be too much to handle – and this is even without considering the challenge of getting to the airport on time or arranging transportation.

Understanding this dilemma, Grab – the partner of every Filipino for safe, convenient, and reliable mobility – launches its latest transportation service Advance Booking. Grab Advance Booking guarantees on-time rides to the airport via the GrabAirport fleet, ticking off yet another item on the travelers’ checklist.

Grab Philippines Head of Mobility EJ Dela Vega shares, “Having served the Philippines for over a decade, we at Grab have deepened our understanding of the distinct needs of our Filipino passengers. One such need that stands out is their requirement for reliable airport transportation. Recognizing this, we are enhancing the experience of airport rides on Grab with the launch of Advance Booking. Our new Grab Advance Booking product goes beyond offering mere airport transfers – it provides travelers the peace of mind they deserve. This new service has been engineered to have guaranteed on-time rides every time, enabling every Filipino traveler to leave their homes with the confidence they'll have a ride to make their flight on time.”

Grab Advance Booking: Guaranteed On-Time Rides, Every Time

The worries about catching a flight in the wee hours of the morning or during the peak of the metro bustle are a thing of the past with Grab Advance Booking. This new Grab mobility service touts guaranteed rides every time.

● Plan as early as 7 Days ahead:  With Grab's Advance Booking feature, passengers can effortlessly plan their journeys well in advance. The reservation window is flexible, allowing bookings to be made as early as seven days or as late as two hours before the scheduled ride. 

● Stay Stress-free with On-Time Pick-up Assurance: The Grab Advance Booking driver-partners are guaranteed to be on time. In instances of service disruption, the Grab platform swiftly and seamlessly reassigns the ride to an alternative driver-partner, ensuring a successful completion of the trip for the passenger. To ensure fairness, a Php-100 courtesy credit will be offered to passengers if the driver arrives late for a pre-scheduled ride. 

● No need to panic with extended wait time: Further enhancing passenger convenience, a 15-minute grace period is implemented for Advance Booking rides. This allows drivers to accommodate minor delays, while passengers encountering unforeseen circumstances have additional time to reach the pick-up location. 

Booking in a Breeze

Accessing Grab Advance Booking is a walk in the park. Passengers can select  “Advance Booking” under the Grab transport page. They can then enter the date and time of their ride, along with their pick-up location and the specific airport terminal for drop-off.

Advance Booking passengers will also be receiving regular updates and reminders about the status of their ride leading to the scheduled pick-up time. 45 minutes prior to the scheduled trip, passengers can already chat and check in with their assigned driver in-app. 

As safety and convenience remain paramount for Grab, Advance Booking rides can only accommodate a maximum of three passengers with three pieces of luggage.

Safeguarding our Driver-Partners

Grab has also implemented protective measures to safeguard the income of the dedicated fleet for Advance Booking. These measures are designed to mitigate the impact of last-minute cancellations by passengers, specifically those made less than an hour before the scheduled pick-up time. During such cancellations, the passenger will be charged the full fare of the ride. The same policy applies when a passenger is unreachable or hasn't arrived 15 minutes past the scheduled time.

However, there will be no charge for any passenger cancellation done at least one hour before the scheduled pick-up time, 

A worry-free airport transfer

The Grab Advance Booking eases the overall experience of leisure and business travelers going to the airport, allowing them to relax as they begin their trip. This new service from Grab is currently exclusive to trips going to Metro Manila airports via its GrabAirport fleet, which was launched last year in conjunction with the MIAA. Its availability in cities and regions outside of the National Capital Region is expected to transpire in the second half of 2024. 

For more information on Grab Advance Booking, passengers may visit the Grab Help Center.

PeekUp, the New Ride-Hailing App Launched

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PeekUp envisions a future where efficient transportation aligns harmoniously with environmental stewardship.

Ventures into transportation, Dave Almarinez launched PeekUp, the new ride-hailing app, ensuring to accommodate the thousands of would-be passengers that crisscross the metropolis daily. The PeekUp Grand Launch was held at Mega Fashion Hall SM Megamall , Mandaluyong City, April 30, 2024.

PeekUp – headed by (celebrity Ara Mina's husband), Dave M. Almarinez, Founder and CEO of  A Force Ventures Inc., along with Co-Founder and CFO Jayson Chua – is making way to redefine the transportation landscape and provide more affordable, reliable, and convenient mobility solutions for both passengers and driver partners.

“Join us on the journey to a smarter, safer, and seamless mobility future with PeekUp. PeekUp is here not just to provide you a ride; we’re here to bring you a seamless, stress-free experience,” Almarinez said.

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PeekUp – a Pinoy-made solution tor transportation woes. It's about empowering global communities with safe, reliable, and affordable rides, while supporting local drivers and building a better future for the world

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For a seamless experience, users can simply book a ride via the PeekUp App, which can be downloaded for free. The robust app leverages state-of-the-art technology to provide users with an intuitive and user-friendly platform, boasting a sleek interface, real-time tracking, and advanced safety features to ensure a secure and reliable journey for all passengers. Easily book a ride for yourself or another passenger without worry.

PeekUp is also committed to transparency and fairness. With dynamic pricing that adapts to demand, users can expect more budget friendly rates without compromising service quality. PeekUp’s pricing model aims to benefit both passengers and partner-drivers, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem. Know exactly how your ride fees are computed as PeekUp displays the ride-cost breakdown to align with its transparency policy.

As the safety of the passengers and riders is paramount at PeekUp, the platform incorporates rigorous partner-driver screening processes, real-time ride monitoring, and emergency response features to guarantee a secure environment for all users.

Dave M. Almarinez

"We need to have a ride hailing up that will benefit the Filipinos, that was one year ago. PeekUp means the best experience, smooth rides. Our cars are 4 seaters and 6 seaters. It is important to always have it affordable and safe. We want students and passengers to try it out because this is 100 percent Filipino owned ride hailing app, with potential to grow in the region, and in other countries. Our dream is to have this design and app built by Filipinos to become present in other places soon," Almarinez said.

Say goodbye to transportation woes in Metro Manila and nearby areas!

With PeekUp’s innovative ride options like Compact 4-Seater, Taxi, and Plus 6-Seater, you’re guaranteed a safe journey even during peak hours.

Download the app now for a seamless booking experience and enjoy transparent pricing and top-notch safety features.

Download and PeekUp Driver app at Apple App store at Google Play Store. https://www.peekup.net/download

LRMC caps off Women’s Month with “HER Story” campaign - “HER Story: Celebrating Health and Well-being, Empowerment, and Resilience of Women"

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LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) successfully concluded its “HER Story: Celebrating Health and Well-being, Empowerment, and Resilience of Women at LRT-1” campaign promoting physical and mental well-being as part of National Women’s Month this March.

The campaign culminated in a two-day activation from March 21 – 22, 2024 at LRT-1 Central and United Nations stations by offering free health screenings conducted by LRMC’s partner health providers including mWell, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, De Los Santos Medical Center, and ManilaMed.

“At LRMC, we recognize the vital role women play in our society. Through ‘HER Story,’ we hope to empower our female passengers by providing them with access to resources and support to learn how they can prioritize their health and overall well-being. We are grateful for the collaboration with our healthcare partners who helped us achieve this goal,” said LRMC Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Jacqueline S. Gorospe.

Female passengers were treated to various free health checks, including blood sugar screening, blood pressure checks, blood glucose tests, and body temperature monitoring. Partner health providers also offered additional giveaways to passengers who participated in activities at their booths. mWell, a participating health provider, delighted passengers with a raffle featuring smartwatches as prizes.

This initiative serves as a testament to LRMC’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for its passengers. LRMC hopes to contribute to a stronger and more vibrant community by prioritizing women’s health and well-being.

For more updates and info on the LRT-1, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, X (formerly Twitter) at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.

Unlock The City on Moovr’s Newest Rides and Improved Mobile App

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Moovr is the simple solution to getting you ahead. Take charge of your own Mooves through the city and through life, one convenient ride at a time. Moovr’s newest electric-powered rides are available in expanded locations visible through their improved mobile app, making it easier for you to get where you’re going for the most affordable price in the city.

Moovr offers an economical alternative for your daily travels, allowing you to get to your destination for as low as P25. Being 100% cashless and self-serviced, you can use digital credits for seamless and affordable transportation. The app allows you to check real-time ride availability across stations in BGC, Mckinley Hill, and Makati where you can instantly rent a device, eliminating the need to navigate through traffic or wait for a ride. Simply open the app, locate the nearest device, and end your ride in multiple convenient locations in these cities.

Control your commute, manage your errands, get to school, or work at your own pace with Moovr’s newest rides available all over the city.

“We noticed the majority of our riders take long rides and we want to offer them a more comfortable riding experience. We looked at other cities in the world where micromobility has been successful, and adopted the same technology in our devices,” said Carlo Rombano, Head of Operations at Moovr.

Moovr brought devices used in first-world cities to Manila at a price point that’s accessible to Filipinos. Adapting to local consumer needs and demands.

“Our adaptability also extends to our app. With our latest update, we’ve applied comprehensive features that don’t just make every ride efficient but an enriching exploration,” added Shiela Raña, Head of Operations.

The new features include encrypted payments, which allow riders to save their details and top up with a single tap on a button, as well as an adaptive user interface that lets riders see parking areas, and vehicle details such as their availability, battery levels, and ride rates.

“At Moovr, we believe in redefining the way people move through their cities. Our commitment to innovation and user-centric design aims to inspire a sense of empowerment with every ride,” said Raña.

Moovr is committed to catering to your individual transportation needs. Last, January 13th, they launched two new ride options - the electric-powered bike and their upgraded e-scooters.

For the first time, Moovr’s bikes are going electric. This makes it easier to breeze through the city with less effort. The e-bikes feature a sturdy basket for quick errands, and are specifically designed for Filipinos. Meanwhile, the upgraded e-scooters also feature a sturdier base, and better suspension for bumpy roads and surfaces, perfect for longer commutes, or simply riding around town for a breather.

These newest e-bikes and scooters are designed not only for efficiency but also to enhance the overall ease of unlocking the city. Whether it's breezing through traffic during the daily commute or leisurely cruising through the city streets, Moovr's new ride options provide an unparalleled level of convenience.

See how to ride better, and keep up to date with Moovr through their social media pages (Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram).

Ready to ride? Download the Moovr app now to unlock the city. Don't miss out on the fun, check out the newest e-bike and e-scooters at the nearest Moovr station near you through the Moovr application available on the Google Playstore and Apple app store.

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About Moovr

Moovr PH is a Metro Manila–based bike and e-scooter sharing that aims to provide mobility for every Juan. Moovr provides easy mobility for Filipinos wanting to beat the city traffic.

Grab Launches GrabCar in CDO, Strengthens Economic Empowerment Commitment in the City

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The leading superapp officially launches its flagship mobility service in Cagayan De Oro, expanding its portfolio of services in the city which is currently composed of GrabFood and GrabTaxi

Grab officially launched GrabCar in Cagayan De Oro City as part of its commitment to the economic empowerment in the region. Photo above shows Grab Philippines Head of Mobility EJ Dela Vega [Center-Left] with CDO Councilors George Goking, Romeo Calizo and Malvern Esparcia; and officials from LTFRB Region 10

CAGAYAN DE ORO, 18 January 2024 - Grab Philippines, a dedicated partner in the nation-building efforts of the government, is strengthening its commitment to economic empowerment in Cagayan De Oro. With the official launch of its flagship mobility service GrabCar, Grab is not only providing Kagay-anons with a viable transportation option but is also creating a new avenue for generating livelihoods and stimulating economic activity in the City of Golden Friendship.

GrabCar is a beloved and trusted mobility service for Filipino commuters. Built on a foundation of safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, GrabCar stands as an effective mobility alternative for the Filipino commuting public. GrabCar currently services the area from Laguindingan Airport up to the end of Lapasan and Upper Balulang.

Cagayan De Oro is the second city in Mindanao to welcome the GrabCar service,  furthering the leading superapp’s mission to create sustainable opportunities and foster economic growth across the region.

Grab Philippines Head of Mobility Marketplace EJ Dela Vega shares, “Our superapp model allows us to know and deeply understand Kagay-anons best - from the way they commute through GrabTaxi, to the way they enjoy their everyday meals through GrabFood. Grab continues to be attentive to the needs of the market and we believe that now is the right time to offer Kagay-anons a mobility solution that not only meets their everyday needs but also positively contributes to the long-term success of CDO.”

Cagayan De Oro Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy also underscored the strong partnership of the city with the leading superapp. “Cagayan De Oro actively forges partnerships with industry leaders like Grab as we make strides toward our vision of solid economic performance and a thriving citizenry. The launch of Grab in our city has given Kagay-anon entrepreneurs, drivers and riders access to a robust marketplace that fosters high-success potential – something only a superapp ecosystem can offer. We are glad to welcome GrabCar and are excited to see the new opportunities it is bringing for our kabayayans,” Mayor Uy shares.

The Grab Superapp Journey in CDO: A Long-Standing Commitment to Economic Empowerment

In an effort to digitalize the taxi ecosystem in Cagayan De Oro, Grab launched GrabTaxi in 2015. Since then, Grab has been forging close partnerships with key taxi operators in the city. This collaboration has resulted in the onboarding of hundreds of GrabTaxi driver-partners, enabling them to substantially boost their earnings potential through increased bookings facilitated on the platform.

As Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, Grab has also expanded its presence in CDO outside of mobility with the launch of GrabFood in May 2020. This addition has proven to be instrumental in fostering a thriving ecosystem for local entrepreneurial ventures, regardless of their size. By democratizing access to user-friendly growth tools, cutting-edge technology, and capacity-building programs, Grab has empowered MSMEs to achieve sustainable growth on the platform. One outstanding example of a homegrown CDO merchant-partner that has experienced equitable success on Grab is Frkn Burger. Since its launch on Grab, Frkn Burger has achieved a remarkable ten-fold increase in its average weekly delivery orders and has also opened its second branch. This earned them a well-deserved spot among the prestigious Golden Grab Awardees for 2023.

An Expansive Horizon of Partnership

As a devoted partner for economic empowerment of the Cagayan De Oro local government, Grab Philippines will continue to leverage its technology, extensive network of highly engaged users, and community-focused approach to unlock new possibilities for growth and prosperity. Dela Vega notes, “The horizon of collaboration between Grab and the local government of Cagayan De Oro continues to be expansive. Together, we're orchestrating a future of sustainable opportunities that create pathways for local everyday entrepreneurs to realize their aspirations. This is a testament to the transformative power of partnership, innovative technology, and the boundless potential of the Filipino spirit.”

 

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About Grab

Grab is a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, operating across the deliveries, mobility and digital financial services sectors. Serving over 500 cities in eight Southeast Asian countries - Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - Grab enables millions of people everyday to order food or groceries, send packages, hail a ride or taxi, pay for online purchases or access services such as lending and insurance, all through a single app. Grab was founded in 2012 with the mission to drive Southeast Asia forward by creating economic empowerment for everyone, and strives to serve a triple bottom line: to simultaneously deliver financial sustainability and have a positive social and environmental impact in Southeast Asia

ICYMI: Grab reintroduces GrabPet, delights Filipino pet parents

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Grab Philippines officially reintroduces its pet-friendly mobility service GrabPet, giving pet parents better access to safe, reliable and convenient transportation as they move about with their beloved furry, feathered, or even scaly companions.

GrabPet, as a specialized on-demand service, is designed to help passengers ferry their pets to various destinations, including veterinary clinics, groomers, pet-friendly cafes, and more with just a tap of a button. Initially available in select areas of Metro Manila, GrabPet-ready driver-partners are all set to onboard dogs, cats, turtles, hamsters, rabbits, and fish on rides.

To ensure top-notch transportation for GrabPet passengers, animal-loving driver-partners with spacious six-seater vehicles were purposefully tapped for the GrabPet fleet, even undergoing comprehensive training in handling pet-related bookings. All GrabPet rides also come with added insurance to ensure the well-being of the pets on board.

“As a pet parent myself, I understand how challenging it can be for Filipinos to bring their animal companions to essential services and even leisure trips given the limited transportation options available. As an expression of our dedication to addressing the varying transportation needs of commuters, we have launched GrabPet. It is our firm belief that safe, reliable, and convenient mobility services should be accessible to everyone – even families with winged or four-legged friends,” shares Grab Philippines Chief Operating Officer Ronald Roda.

Working Together for Above-Par, Pet-Friendly Rides

In a bid to safeguard both the safety and convenience of passengers as well as to preserve the pristine condition of the driver-partners' vehicles, Grab Philippines has enforced a set of requirements for individuals utilizing the GrabPet service.

●       Pets should be accompanied by human passengers.

●       Pet owners should also refrain from booking rides for pets with parasites and/or fleas

●       Pet owners can bring a maximum of two small and medium-sized pets or one large pet per ride, subject to the discretion of the GrabPet Driver-Partner.

●       A maximum of four passengers can accompany the pet(s) during the ride.

●       Pets are also required to be in diapers and inside carriers.

Roda adds, “We are committed to ensuring that owners and their pets are safely and conveniently transported to their intended destination while also preserving the integrity of the vehicle of our driver-partners. A driver-partner’s vehicle is their means of livelihood, hence by collaborating with us in maintaining high hygiene and safety standards during the GrabPet ride, pet parents help in making sure that our driver-partners can go about their day worry- and hassle-free.”

For more information and updates on GrabPet, visit this link.

 

airasia Digital announces next MOVE, unveiling new era of travel innovation

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In a strategic move to emphasise its commitment towards travel, the digital arm of Capital A, airasia Digital announces its transformation into MOVE Digital (MOVE). This rebranding marks an exciting chapter in its next phase of growth through both its businesses, airasia Superapp and BigPay.

Capital A CEO and MOVE Executive Chairman Tony Fernandes (center) together with new airasia Move CEO Nadia Omer (left) and BigPay CEO Subin Rada Krishnan (right) during the big announcement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

MOVE’s travel platform business, airasia Superapp will also undergo a brand refresh and change its name to ‘airasia move’ in the near future as part of the ongoing transformation.

The visionary co-founder of AirAsia and CEO of Capital A, Tony Fernandes will assume the role of Executive Chairman of MOVE. He will play a pivotal role in driving the close collaboration between both airasia Superapp (now airasia move) and BigPay to unlock the true potential and synergy of these digital businesses.

“The name MOVE signifies us better as the digital arm of Capital A, and reiterates our commitment to move people, ideas and innovation forward within the travel space. Imagine seamless access to travel and financial services on one single platform, with integrated financial features such as balance display, top-up and payments from BigPay and further strengthening the value proposition of airasia move as the travel app of choice. My role as the Executive Chairman of MOVE will be to enhance synergy between both businesses. With this change, the market can expect an enriching user experience aside from more integration of BigPay features within the airasia Superapp (now airasia move) very soon” said Tony Fernandes, Executive Chairman of MOVE.

In this new era of travel innovation for MOVE, we are happy to welcome Nadia Omer into the organisation as the new Chief Executive Officer of airasia move effective 26 October. Her key priority will be to further drive airasia move’s vision as a low-cost travel platform with high conversion, while closely collaborating with BigPay, led by Zubin Rada Krishnan. Mohamad Hafidz, who is currently the acting CEO will continue leading the business in the interim and I would like to thank him for his contributions throughout the past few months.” 

The airasia Superapp, or what will be called airasia move soon, has swiftly become a one-stop travel platform offering value and convenience through seamless end-to-end booking experiences within the past two years, while BigPay has established itself as an innovative fintech provider enabling Southeast Asians to improve their lives through better financial management.

Both of Capital A’s digital businesses have been making significant strides, with airasia Superapp (now airasia move) reaching its highest recorded MAU (monthly active users) of 15 million at the end of the second quarter, while BigPay saw its carded users grow by 16% YoY for the same period.

MOVE Digital Sdn Bhd (formerly known as airasia Digital Sdn Bhd) is the digital arm of Capital A Berhad, and encompasses two transformative businesses: airasia Superapp (now airasia move) and BigPay. MOVE is dedicated to revolutionising the travel and financial services sectors by offering innovative, user-centric solutions at the best value.

Philippine Airlines (PAL) Partners with Expedia Group to Launch All-in-One Travel Website, PAL Holidays

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Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national flag carrier of the Philippines, has launched PAL Holidays powered by Expedia Group, a one-stop travel website that offers travelers a seamless and comprehensive platform for all their travel needs. The new site is now live in the US, Canada, Australia, and Philippines.

The new platform is powered by Expedia Group’s White Label Template technology and designed to help passengers effortlessly plan and book their entire journey—including PAL flights, hotels, transportation, and exciting travel activities, all in one convenient location. We are thrilled to introduce PAL Holidays, our new one-stop booking platform that simplifies and enhances the travel planning process for our passengers. By partnering with Expedia, we are confident that our customers will enjoy unparalleled access to a superior range of great offers for hotels, experiences, and transport that can go together with the Philippine Airlines flights that they book. PAL Holidays reflects our dedication to providing exceptional travel experiences, and we look forward to serving our customers in a more convenient and efficient way,:" said Bud Britanico, VP for Sales at Philippine Airlines.

The New PAL Holidays Website powered by Expedia Group. Your new one-stop booking platform for all your travel needs 

PAL Holidays marks a significant milestone in the airline's commitment to enhancing the travel experience of its valued customers. With Expedia Group  long-standing reputation as a reliable and trusted travel platform, travelers can be assured that PAL Holidays will deliver exceptional service and value:

Access to Hotel Accommodations Worldwide

PAL Holidays provides travelers with access to over 900,000 properties across the globe, enabled by the collaboration with renowned global travel platform, Expedia Group. The vast selection of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, ensures that there is something for every traveler & preference and budget.

All-in-One Booking

PAL Holidays allows travelers to access a wide array of services in one transaction, encompassing PAL flights, hotel accommodations, transportation, and travel activities. From the comfort of their homes or while on-the-go, travelers can effortlessly tailor their perfect itinerary.

Exclusive Promo Deals

PAL Holidays will feature exciting promotional deals and exclusive offers, making travel dreams even more attainable. With great discounts and carefully curated packages, travelers can explore more destinations and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones.

“We are thrilled to team up with Philippine Airlines for PAL Holidays. We share the same vision of transforming and easing the way travelers plan and book their journeys. With our combined expertise and service, we are excited to offer a seamless travel platform that will be of great help to travelers,” said Greg Schulze, Senior Vice President, Strategic Travel Partners at Expedia Group.

Travelers can experience the ease and convenience of PAL Holidays by visiting the website. Discover a new era of travel, where booking PAL flights, hotels, activities, and transportation needs is as simple as a few clicks!

Globe Group’s 917Ventures, Ayala Corp and Gogoro introduce new era of sustainable transport in PH

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Companies launch Gogoro Smartscooters® and Battery-Swapping Pilot in Metro Manila, announce public availability by Q4 2023

Globe Capital Venture Holdings Director Bernie Llamzon, Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Gogoro Founder and CEO Horace Luke, Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu, and 917 Ventures Managing Director Vince Yamat at the launch of the Gogoro Smartscooters^®  and Battery-Swapping GoStation ecosystem in the Philippines. 

Globe Group’s 917Ventures, Ayala Corporation, and Gogoro Inc. on Monday made history as they launched Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping in the Philippines. The companies are introducing a new era in sustainable transportation that brings together smart, convenient and accessible electric two-wheelers to customers.

The announcement was made at a ceremony at the Globe headquarters in Bonifacio Global City where the three companies also announced the commercial public release of Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping stations in Metro Manila in Q4 2023.

“We in the Globe Group are very proud to bring Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping to the Philippines, a transport ecosystem that marries mobility innovation and sustainability. This year, Filipinos will have access to these electric two wheelers and Gogoro’s convenient and cost-efficient battery-swapping technology, another first in the Philippines,” said Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu at the launch.

Gogoro’s launch is the Globe Group’s debut in the climate tech space, as it continues to deliver innovations that address Filipinos’ daily pain points. As a better transportation alternative, Gogoro aims to address commuter woes on expensive gas prices while helping curb carbon emissions, in line with the partners’ shared commitment to sustainability, and the Philippine government's sustainable development agenda.

It also marks the Philippine entry of Gogoro, a brand that has transformed two-wheel mobility in Taiwan and fostered a new smart mobility industry with a network of eco-friendly businesses and end-users. In addition to Taiwan and the Philippines, Gogoro is also operating in China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Korea and Israel. 

Horace Luke, Founder and CEO of Gogoro, said the company is excited to bring the Gogoro ecosystem to the Philippines and is committed to replicating its success in Taiwan, where Gogoro has 540,000 riders and has deployed more than one million smart batteries at 12,000 battery-swapping stations. Gogoro riders have swapped more than 450 million total swaps, 400,000 per day, and Gogoro has saved more than 627,000 tons of CO2 since it launched.

“Our partnership with the Globe Group and Ayala Corporation in the Philippines is a major milestone in our mission to transform urban transportation and provide an accessible path for riders to adopt sustainable urban mobility and play a key role in battling climate change and making the world better for all. We look forward to working together to deliver a sustainable transport system that will improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a superior riding experience for consumers in the Philippines,” Luke said. 

At the event, the partners unveiled the first Gogoro battery-swapping station at The Globe Tower – the start of a network of Gogoro battery-swapping stations planned to be established initially in Metro Manila and eventually across the country. 

They also announced the Gogoro pilot in Globe, where 70 employees will be the first to try out the Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping. They will test the system for two months starting in May and share insights on their experience to ensure an even better customer experience once the e-bikes become available to the public later this year. 

"The Gogoro ecosystem is very convenient as its swap-and-go technology allows riders to swap out depleted batteries for charged ones in just seconds and go on their way. With the current traffic situation in the metro, these Smartscooters® will serve as an eco-friendly alternative to ease congestion while at the same time reducing carbon emissions,”  said Bernie Llamzon, Globe Capital Venture Holdings Inc. Director. 

917Ventures Managing Director Vince Yamat, meanwhile, thanked the government’s support for the shift to EVs as he cited the importance of enabling policy for electric vehicles to succeed in the country. 

It’s as easy as swap and go with the Gogoro battery-swapping station.

“The shift to EVs, particularly deploying Gogoro’s battery-swapping system, will go a long way with sustained government support that will allow private sector initiatives to prosper. Sustainable transportation projects are, after all, aligned with the government’s long-term agenda to promote environment-friendly transport options and foster digitalization as mobility needs of Filipino individuals and businesses rise,” Yamat said.  

The Globe Group, 917Ventures and Ayala Corporation consistently lead the way in utilizing technology to enhance the lives of Filipinos and safeguard the environment through their innovative change-making initiatives.

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