UnionDigital Bank Wins Profitability Race in PH Digital Banking

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UnionDigital Bank, the digital bank subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines, is one of the fastest digital banks in the world to achieve profitability. It attained a triple-digit percentage growth in its net income during the first half of 2023 compared to the second half of 2022. The Aboitiz Group-led digital bank, which recently marked its first-year milestone in July, attributed this to the robust loan portfolio growth via the UnionBank ecosystem.

“We are grateful to be one of the six Philippine digital banks that are committed to making a difference in the lives of all Filipinos by empowering them to pursue their aspirations. The commitment and hard work of our Ka-UBEHs in UnionDigital and UnionBank have pushed us to become one of the fastest digital banks in the world to achieve profitability,” said Henry Aguda, President and CEO, UnionDigital Bank. “This milestone is not just UnionDigital's win, but a collective victory that should be celebrated by the entire Digital Banking Association of the Philippines (DBAP) family as it affirms the world class innovation of the Philippine digital banking industry. Philippine banking is ready for the global stage.”

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has endorsed the establishment of the DBAP, an initiative aimed at addressing the immediate priorities necessary for the prosperity and success of digital banks in the Philippines.

"As we emerge as the fastest to profit digital bank in the Philippines, the endorsement of the DBAP by the BSP is testament to the strong support of our regulator to the future of this industry. This initiative not only reflects our commitment to innovation but also reaffirms the BSP's dedication to the growth and prosperity of PH digital banks. Together, we're shaping a dynamic future for the industry,” added Aguda.

The digital bank’s deposits also saw a 113% surge, amounting to PHP 20 billion, which is 32% of the market share among digital banks. Its loan portfolio has grown to PHP 13 billion, notching a 126% upswing. The company shared that it had captured a substantial 75% of the market share for loans within the digital banking industry as of May 2023.

UnionDigital’s stellar performance, backed by its strong fintech capability, support of the BSP, and deep linkages with the ecosystem of the Aboitiz Group, was recognized at The Asian Banker Excellence in Retail Financial Services and Technology Innovation Philippines Awards 2023, where the company won the "Best Digital-Only Bank" award.

TABInsights, the research arm of TAB Global and a sister company of The Asian Banker, also ranked UnionDigital Bank as number 58 in the Global Top 100 Digital-Only Bank Ranking 2023, which features only two digital banks from the Philippines. The ranking evaluates digital banks based on customer service, market coverage, profitability, asset and deposit growth, and funding.

"Receiving this honor from The Asian Banker is a privilege we hold in high regard. This award is not solely ours to claim; we extend this to our fellow digital bank counterparts, our parent, UnionBank, and the BSP, all united by a common objective – uplifting the lives of Filipinos through financial inclusion,” shared Aguda. “This recognition reflects our joint dedication and commitment to reshape the financial landscape for the better. It underscores the importance of working together and pursuing common goals to drive our nation’s progress and prosperity.”

UnionDigital Bank has recently signed partnerships with different key players in diverse industries to launch its embedded banking services.

“We have built a strong pipeline of partnerships and are also scaling up our retail app to help us diversify our deposit base,” said Mike Singh, Chief Commercial and Revenue Officer, UnionDigital Bank. “Our focus remains on giving access to essential financial services to the underserved such as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through upcoming products in our app.”

Unfold a New World and Join the Flip Side: Samsung debuts latest Galaxy devices at Launch Event

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Samsung’s Join the Flip Side event dazzled attendees at Conrad Manila as it unveiled the latest Galaxy devices with a spectacular launch party, bringing to life the brand’s promise of self-expression, creativity and productivity, and overall wellness.

Members of #TeamGalaxy invites everyone to join the flip side at the launch party. L-R: Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO) Mobile Experience Business Director Daniel Choi, #TeamGalaxy Nico Bolzico, #TeamGalaxy Michelle Dee, #TeamGalaxy Catriona Gray, SEPCO President Min Su Chu, #TeamGalaxy AC Bonifacio, #TeamGalaxy Camille Co, #TeamGalaxy Leila Alcasid, and SEPCO Head of Mobile Experience Blue Avelino.

In a program hosted by Erika Kristensen, Samsung shared a rundown of the newest Galaxy groundbreaking innovations — the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, Watch6, and Tab S9—marking a new era of unparalleled premium experiences.

Samsung invites consumers on a journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung showcases its latest innovations designed to open possibilities and transform lives. At the launch, the newest #TeamGalaxy members Catriona Gray and AC Bonifacio were introduced and also shared what one could expect over on the flip side. AC Bonifacio also kept the crowd hyped up throughout the night with an energetic performance.

Singer-songwriter Leila Alcasid, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, and travel and lifestyle content creator Camille Co then took guests on a tour of different Galaxy zones, which are experiential installations that brought to life exactly how the new Galaxy devices complement modern lifestyles.

Express yourself with the Galaxy Z Flip5

As part of the evening’s interactive experiences, guests were able to discover their best side at the Self Expression Studio where they took photos at the Mirror Selfie Station and the Flex Every Angle Photo Booth where they got to experience the versatility of the Flex Cam. Guests also took fun group selfies at the Groufie Station with the various hands-free selfie options

The Flex Showcase meanwhile highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window widgets, which allows you to get productive on the go with just a few clicks and swipes. As the ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, you can let your individuality shine with the biggest cover screen yet, at 3.4 inches.

Work and play with the Galaxy Z Fold5

At the Productivity Cafe, guests enjoyed curated drinks at the Coffee Station while checking out the features and functions of the new Galaxy Z Fold5. At the Gaming Lounge, guests tried out their favorite games with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s immersive 7.6” main display while at the Multi-Tasking Station, the Galaxy Fold5 was showcased as a powerful productivity tool through its sleeker S Pen, advanced Taskbar, and Split Screen features.

The Entertainment Pod displayed a diorama of cinema with the Galaxy Fold5 as its movie screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, users can watch videos on one screen and type texts and comments using flex mode in the other half. No need to worry about bulkiness as the Galaxy Fold5 is the thinnest Fold yet thanks to the Zero Gap Hinge.

Sleep better and live healthier with the Galaxy Watch6 series

At the Wellness Den, the new features of the Galaxy Watch6 series were on full display. The Sleep Up station highlighted the innovative capabilities of the Galaxy Watch6’s Sleep Monitoring functions such as the Sleep Scores, Sleep Stages analyses, and intuitive information with Sleep Coaching.

Guests also got active with stationary bikes while wearing the Watch6 to experience its various functions. With the innovative 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor, users can enjoy an efficient way to monitor exercise efforts and check on their health as the Galaxy Watch6 series monitors both blood pressure and electrocardiographic (ECG).

The wide selection of versatile watch faces as well as new one-click band options were highlighted as well at the Straps Station. These devices pack holistic health offerings and powerful performance in a refined and sleek design - 30% slimmer bezel, a 20% larger and more vibrant display, and more interactive user interface.

To further champion overall wellness, Samsung Philippines has partnered with Emma The Sleep Company, an award-winning German brand that advocates for better sleep experiences; and the 24/7 health consultation app KonsultaMD to enable better health and everyday wellness through technology. There will also be exclusive promotions and discounts for Samsung Members, Emma Sleep customers, and Watch6 Customers. Meanwhile, Samsung and KonsultaMD will be hosting health talks, wellness activities, as well as offer promotions and discounts to Samsung Members, KonsultaMD subscribers, and Watch6 Customers. Activities will be announced throughout the rest of the year.

Get creative and productive with the Galaxy Tab S9 series

At the Creative Playground, guests explored the new features of the new Galaxy Tab S9 series with a live digital mural showcasing how the Galaxy Tab S9 series is a great device for creativity. There was also a Doodle Corner where guests got to try out the PENUP App and S Pen Handwriting features of the tablets. The Galaxy Tab S9’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display also had its own corner full of different backgrounds showing how it can adapt to different lighting situations to ensure an epic viewing experience.

The DeX Mode corner showcased the Galaxy Tab S9’s versatility – where the tablets can be used like a laptop with a keyboard and mouse, and how users can experience the multi-window functionality and ecosystem connectivity with other Galaxy devices at the Ecosystem Integration corner. The experience was taken up a notch by submerging the devices in an aquarium at the Underwater Writing corner, showing how the IP68 rating of both the Galaxy Tab S9 series and the S Pen allows you to work or play anywhere.

Dancer AC Bonifacio shared that becoming a #TeamGalaxy member was a dream come true at Samsung's Join the Flip Side launch party

The queen herself, Catriona Gray, has joined the Flip Side. She loves the Galaxy Z Fold5 for its multitasking capabilities.

To order the latest Samsung Galaxy devices and avail exciting offers, you may visit:

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s9/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch6-40mm-gold-bluetooth-sm-r930nzeaasa/buy/

Above and Beyond: Samsung celebrates 25 years in the Philippines with DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela

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To celebrate 25 years of going above and beyond in inspiring generations of Filipino families, Samsung Electronics Philippines (SEPCO) recently partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) for Brigada Eskwela 2023 to help clean and repaint classrooms in Palar Integrated School in Taguig City.

Clockwise from left: SEPCO leaders, DepEd and Palar Integrated School officials during the opening ceremonies for Brigada Eskwela; DepEd OIC – School Superintendent Dr. Cynthia Ayles welcomes SEPCO Volunteers as SEPCO President Min Su Chu and CFO Taekyun Kim look on; SEPCO volunteers help clean and repaint classroom in Palar Integrated School; More than 100 SEPCO Volunteers gather for Brigada Eskwela 2023

Brigada Eskwela is the DepEd’s program specifically aimed at preparing public schools for the upcoming school year. More than 100 SEPCO volunteers signed up to help Palar Integrated School, attended by more than 4,000 students coming from nearby communities in Taguig City. Present during the activities were DepEd OIC – Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Cynthia Ayles, Palar Integrated School Principal III Dr. Magdalena G. Centeno, and DepEd OIC for Social Mobilization Networking Desiree M. Adrigado.

SEPCO President Min Su Chu led the volunteers and expressed gratitude to DepEd and Palar Integrated School for allowing SEPCO to celebrate its 25th anniversary through Brigada Eskwela. “When we planned SEPCO’s 25th year in the Philippines, we were certain that we wanted to give back to the community that we have been part of all these years. Palar Integrated School is home to more than 4,000 students, 90 teachers and hundreds of non-teaching staff, and it is very meaningful for us to help them in this way. ” He adds, “Thank you to DepEd and Palar Integrated School for the opportunity to be of service to the children and teachers of Taguig City.“

DepEd OIC – Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Cynthia Ayles also expressed her appreciation to SEPCO and the employee volunteers. “We are grateful to SEPCO and their employee volunteers for going above and beyond for our students, teachers, and staff. Strong partnerships between the public and private sector can truly have a big impact on our mission to educate the Filipino youth, and we hope that more institutions give their time and resources for Brigada Eskwela.”

This initiative is in line with Samsung’s global CSR vision of empowering the next generation to achieve their full potential and pioneer positive social changes. People and co–prosperity are the core of Samsung’s corporate philosophy, and this is part of SEPCO’s commitment to collaborate with the government and various organisations to support education programs in the Philippines.

Palar Integrated School Principal III Magdalena G. Centeno capped off the activity highlighting the impact of SEPCO’s partnership for Brigada Eskwela. “When our students see that their classrooms were especially prepared for them when classes open, they will feel the sense of importance given to their studies. This will definitely motivate them for the coming school year, and we thank SEPCO for being with us in our mission towards quality education for all Filipino students.”

2023 National Trade Fair to showcase sustainable and green products

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) is set to host the 2023 Hybrid National Trade Fair on August 23 to 27 at the Megatrade Halls at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. The event will showcase sustainable, green, and eco-friendly materials and products, as well as digital innovations for MSMEs.

“The 2023 Hybrid NTF is aimed at accelerating the development and production of products based on the principles of eco-friendly manufacturing and sustainable consumerism,” said BDTP Director Marievic Bonoan. “We believe that this event will be a great opportunity for MSMEs to showcase their sustainable products and services, and to connect with potential customers and partners.”

Organized in partnership with the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, the five-day event will feature over 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the country’s 16 regions. The exhibitors will showcase and sell a rich selection of non-food products such as furniture and furnishings, woodcrafts, metalcrafts and leathercrafts, home décor, houseware, apparel made of indigenous textiles, modern and traditional formal wear, fashion accessories and wearables made of eco-friendly materials, gift collections, souvenir items, holiday décor, personal care, and health and wellness products.

Fairgoers will also be able to experience the various special settings and pavilions, including:

· Philippine Sustainability Pavilion featuring Bamboo, Coconut, Natural Fibers, and Grass

· Innovative Coconut-based Products Cluster

· Other Innovative Products Cluster

· The Rural Agro-enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth Project (RAPID) Special Setting

· KAPEtirya: Coffee Pavilion

· Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Project Beneficiaries Special Cluster

· Philippine Green Living and Holiday Décor Pavilion

· #FlexPHridays Photo Corner

In line with the DTI’s digitalization strategy, the 2023 National Trade Fair continues to expand the market access of participating MSMEs through e-commerce platforms and social media channels. All NTF exhibitors will be featured in the upcoming edition of Sisidlan: The Official NTF 2023 Digital Product Catalog, which includes the product information and contact details of the exhibitors. Buyers outside Metro Manila can follow live updates of the physical show through online streaming on the BDTP Facebook.

The formal opening of the 2023 National Trade Fair will be held on Wednesday, August 23, with top DTI officials and guests from partner-agencies in attendance.

To know more about the 2023 National Trade Fair and other programs of the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion, please follow their social media accounts on Facebook (DTI.BDTP), Instagram (dti.bdtp), and Twitter (@DTI_BDTP). You may also email BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bdtp@dti.gov.ph.

Rediscover the space you deserve at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel

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Eastwood Richmonde, the only hotel in Eastwood City, the pioneering mixed-use township development of leading real estate company, Megaworld Corporation, gets an exciting makeover as it enters its 12th year of operations. Its transformation marks the first step towards the hotel’s extensive brand refresh program which aims to capture a wider scope of the corporate and leisure markets.

Notable in the redesign of the lobby and guest rooms is the use of a fresh and vibrant color palette that inspires stylish and modern living. The contemporary theme of the furnishings and the updated conveniences in the rooms and suites create a welcoming atmosphere for the new breed of young professionals and vacationers to enjoy. All TVs have been replaced with 42” smart TVs, bathtubs changed to shower cubicles, and the individual air conditioning units switched to the newest models. The thoughtful layout of the rooms, plush new carpeting, and unobstructed window views also provide guests with a more luxurious space.

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel General Manager and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Cluster General Manager for NCR+ Jun Justo shares, “With the hotel’s renovation we hope to uphold our commitment, and that of our owning company, Megaworld Corporation, and managing company, Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, to extend only the best hotel experiences to all who step through our doors. We are confident that the invigorating new look of the hotel will not only delight our loyal clients but will also fascinate the younger market that we haven’t had the chance to tap before. Our guests can be assured that this renovation is just the beginning as Eastwood Richmonde continues to evolve to cater to their ever-changing needs.”

Guest rooms have transformed into a chic and soothing sanctuary with their modern design style and upgraded conveniences.

Eastwood Richmonde welcomes guests to a brighter, more vibrant lobby.         

Other areas that were refurbished include the guest floor hallways, function rooms, ballroom, Business Center, gym, pool, and all public areas. And in response to the demand of fur parents wanting to staycation with their fur babies, the hotel will soon have pet-friendly rooms as well.

For inquiries and bookings, call (632) 8570 7777 / (63) 917 531 6867, email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or log on to www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.  

 

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel is the second Richmonde property under the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group of the Philippines’ premier real estate company, Megaworld Corporation. It is located within the pioneering mixed-use township of Eastwood City and caters to the hotel room and banquet venue requirements of corporate offices and residents within the vicinity and around Metro Manila.