EastWest and SMU Mark Graduation of Wealth Management Program Participants

Tweet

The program reflects the Bank’s deliberate commitment to investing in people.

Over 80 bankers from EastWest completed the Singapore Management University (SMU) Wealth Management Programme

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) marked the graduation of over 80 bankers from the Singapore Management University (SMU) Wealth Management Programme, reinforcing the Bank’s strategic investment in talent development and client-centered advisory excellence.

The five-month executive learning program brought together participants from across the Bank and its affiliates. Designed in partnership with SMU Executive Development, the program curriculum focused on honing knowledge and skills around market and product mastery, portfolio construction, suitability, duty of care, stewardship, and high-stakes client conversations, helping EastWest bankers move from product-led conversations to trusted advisory relationships.

“When we began this partnership with SMU, we were making an investment in talent, in capability, and in the next generation of EastWest advisors,” said EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo. “EastWest invests in systems, platforms, and products. But our most important investment is in our people, because people build the relationships that define this Bank’s reputation.”

SMU Executive Development said the program was designed to help EastWest bankers connect technical expertise with stronger advisory judgment and client trust.

“The wealth management landscape requires advisors who can combine market knowledge, client insight, and ethical judgment,” said Eddie Tritton, Executive Director, SMU Executive Development. “We worked with EastWest to create a practical learning journey that helps participants apply technical concepts to real client situations, especially in moments where trust, suitability and long-term stewardship matter most.”

For the participants, the program strengthened both advisory confidence and client engagement discipline.

“The program reminded us that wealth management is about knowing what truly matters to the clients,” said Monina Delartmente, First Vice President and Head of Metro Manila South Region and Business Development. “We learned that a good advisor’s success is defined by how much peace of mind we give our client and how well we can protect them from unnecessary risks. And our impact will not be measured by returns alone, but by the trust our clients place in us.”

“Clients need people they can trust. Someone who understands their situation well enough to give honest, considered, and useful advice, even when the honest answer is to wait, to stay the course, or to do something they did not expect,” Ngo added. “That is what a trusted advisor does, and that is what this program was designed to build.”

The graduation also recognized outstanding project teams for demonstrating strong client understanding, portfolio logic, suitability discipline, and advisory judgment.

“Our aspiration is to develop Relationship Managers who can become the client’s trusted advisor across financial needs and life stages,” said Rafael S. Algarra Jr., Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management. “That means being able to address not just investments, but broader aspirations such as liquidity, protection, income, growth, retirement, education, business needs, succession, estate planning, and wealth transfer.”

The EastWest–SMU Wealth Management Program is part of the Bank’s broader push to strengthen its wealth management business, deepen client relationships, and build an advisory culture anchored on trust, suitability, and long-term stewardship.

SB19’s justin enlists Maki’s songwriting magic for upcoming new single “dahon”

Tweet

The song marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the “habangbuhay pansamantala” music video

P-Pop star justin teams up with acclaimed singer-songwriter Maki on his upcoming new single “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The track is penned by Maki, a gifted singer-songwriter whose knack for heartwarming melodies and relatable sentimentality is prevalent in the material.

The collaboration marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the sci-fi-inspired music video of Maki’s “habangbuhay pansamantala."

According to justin, the upcoming new single captures romance in its purest form. “It’s a song about love that blossoms, thrives, and grows through time.”

Lyrically, “dahon” expresses the enduring power of real love, and as Justin puts it, “It stands like a firm tree that survives the biggest adversity and the only things that are constant in life: change and time.”

A multi-faceted performer known for his work as a performer, creative director, visual artist, and member of SB19, justin reveals that working with Maki has long been a personal aspiration, being a longtime fan of his work in music.

“His creativity and branding align closely with my vision and preferences. Working with him is not only a great opportunity for my career but also an incredible experience.”

As a solo artist, justin has proven himself as a visionary creative across multiple disciplines, driven by his commitment to an advocacy of meaningful existence. He is one of the most-streamed P-Pop soloists, racking up more than 45 million streams on Spotify alone with only four official songs released to date. Beyond his individual pursuits, the charismatic multi-hyphenate is also part of the iconic P-Pop powerhouse SB19, where he takes on multiple key roles, including serving as the creative director.

justin’s “dahon” will be available on all digital music platforms worldwide beginning June 19, 2026, via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save link: https://justin.sng.to/dahon

--

Share photo of you with your dad, win vivo V70 FE

Tweet

Long before we learned to chase our dreams, someone was already working hard to help make them possible: our fathers. They may not always express their love through words, but their quiet sacrifices, strength, and unwavering support speak volumes.

This Father’s Day, vivo Philippines celebrates fathers through its #AwardMyDadwithvivo2026 campaign, running from June 13 to June 21, 2026 through both online and offline activities. Participants can win exclusive NBA merchandise and a brand-new vivo V70 FE.

Designed to capture life's most meaningful moments, the vivo V70 FE features a 200MP OIS Ultra-Clear AI Imaging System, a powerful 7000mAh BlueVolt Battery, and 90W FlashCharge. Whether it's a family gathering, a heartfelt conversation, or a special Father's Day celebration, the vivo V70 FE helps preserve memories with exceptional clarity.

How to Join #AwardMyDadwithvivo2026

Participants may join either offline or online mechanics.

For offline participants, visit any participating vivo store with your father, present your vivo smartphone, and receive an exclusive Father's Day photo frame.

For online participants, share a photo with your father and with a caption saying why he deserves the title of your "World's Greatest Dad." Use the hashtags #AwardMyDadwithvivo2026 and #vivoV70FE.

Three winners will receive exclusive NBA merchandise, while one grand winner will take home a brand-new vivo V70 FE.

Let your appreciation be heard

Father's Day only comes once a year, but a father's love is present every day. Many of us keep our appreciation for our fathers in our hearts, rarely expressing it out loud and often leaving meaningful words unsaid.

vivo believes that the best way to thank Dad is through meaningful companionship and sincere appreciation. This Father’s Day, take the opportunity to capture special moments with your father and share the gratitude you may not always say out loud.

Join the #AwardMyDadwithvivo2026 campaign this season and share your story for a chance to win a vivo V70 FE and exclusive NBA merchandise.

SNAP highlights watershed and environmental conservation in observance of World Environment Day

Tweet

In celebration of World Environment Day, SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship through watershed management, reforestation, forest protection, and community-based conservation programs. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, SNAP continues to promote climate resilience and sustainable development in its host communities.

Among its major initiatives is SNAP-Magat’s Partnership in Uplifting Upland Natural Resources Livelihoods and Assets (PUNLA), an Upper Magat Watershed Management Program focused on the Province of Ifugao. PUNLA supports enrichment planting, reforestation, and the restoration and rehabilitation of the iconic Ifugao Rice Terraces while engaging local communities in watershed protection and sustainable livelihood activities. To date, PUNLA has rehabilitated and restored 34.3 hectares (ha) in the municipalities of Mayoyao and Banaue, reforested and enriched 100.44 ha of forest areas in Banaue and Hungduan, and established 5 ha of agroforestry farms in Lagawe, Ifugao. These efforts have helped mitigate an estimated 6,722 tons of soil erosion across the Ifugao Province.

Complementing these initiatives is SNAP-Benguet and the National Power Corporation’s (NPC) 5-kilometer-radius Technical Cooperation Agreement, which strengthens forest fire prevention and suppression efforts through the establishment of firelines and greenbelts, the provision of firefighting equipment to community volunteers, and logistical support during wildfire response operations. The program maintains at least 13 kilometers of greenbelt areas and 12 kilometers of firebreaks annually, with volunteers deployed to assist various agencies in fire protection activities. SNAP-Benguet also supports the Adopt-a-Watershed Program, which advances NPC’s carbon sequestration objectives and consolidates watershed rehabilitation and protection efforts within a 1,000-hectare watershed area. Under NPC’s Energy Sector Carbon Sequestration Initiative, SNAP completed 42 hectares of its 50-hectare reforestation commitment from 2022 to 2025.

SNAP further strengthens forest conservation through the Aboitiz Passion for Agroforest and Reforest to Keep (A-PARK), the Aboitiz Group's flagship agroforestry and reforestation program. The initiative aims to establish at least 20 hectares annually through the planting of native and fruit-bearing tree species while promoting sustainable land management practices that create both environmental and livelihood benefits for partner communities.

As of May 31, 2026, SNAP has planted 487,775 seedlings across 408.34 hectares within its watershed areas from 2008 to 2025, achieving an average survival rate of 91 percent. These efforts form part of the company’s long-term strategy to enhance watershed health, strengthen biodiversity, and support the sustainability of hydroelectric power generation.

In support of this year’s World Environment Day observance, anchored on the call for “Now for Climate,” SNAP carried out environmental stewardship activities that promote sustainability and climate action.

On June 5, 2026, SNAP-Magat conducted reservoir clean-up drives in Ramon, Isabela, helping protect water resources and surrounding areas. Meanwhile, on June 8, 2026, SNAP-Benguet employees participated in Hug-a-Tree eco-walk activities in Itogon and Bokod, Benguet, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of environmental conservation.

Through these collective efforts, SNAP continues to champion environmental responsibility and contribute to building greener, safer, and more resilient communities for future generations.

About SNAP:

SNAP is a renewable energy producer and developer. It owns and operates the 112.5-MW Ambuklao and 140-MW Binga hydroelectric power plants in Benguet; the Magat hydroelectric power plant which has a nameplate capacity of 360 MW and maximum capacity of 388 MW on the border of Isabela and Ifugao; the 8.5-MW Maris hydro; and the 24-MW Magat battery energy storage facility in Isabela. The non-power components such as dams, reservoirs, and spillways are owned, managed, and operated by the government. SNAP is a joint venture of Scatec and Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI).

Scatec is a leading renewable energy solutions provider, accelerating access to reliable and affordable clean energy. As a long-term player, it develops, builds, owns and operates renewable energy plants, with 6.2 GW in operation and under construction across five continents today. It is committed to grow its renewable energy capacity, delivered by passionate employees and partners who are driven by a common vision of ‘Improving our Future’.

ARI is the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, leading the company’s push toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the Philippines. It develops, builds, operates, and grows a diversified portfolio of renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and energy storage.

SM’s data privacy efforts recognized anew at National Data Privacy Conference

Tweet

SM remains committed to ensuring and maintaining in-depth data privacy standards as a core component of corporate governance.

SM Retail, the retail arm of the SM Group, was recently awarded the NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award for the Private Sector by the National Privacy Commission (NPC) during the National Data Privacy Conference.

The NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award recognizes private sector organizations that uphold transparency and accountability through visible display of their NPC Seal of Registration across their operations and digital touchpoints.

“We are grateful for this recognition from NPC. We understand how critical data governance is in maintaining customer trust and loyalty. This award reflects the collective effort of the different business units across SM Retail to strengthen data privacy compliance and awareness,” shared Jonathan Ng, President of SM Retail.

SM Retail, the retail arm of the SM Group, received the NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award for the Private Sector at the National Data Privacy Conference in Parañaque City. In photo are officers from the SM Retail Data Privacy & Protection Team, from left: Bernadette C. Salinas, Chief Data Officer; Atty. Mikhail Josef P. Soriano, Manager; Leyson N. San Juan, Data Protection Officer and AVP; Lorenz Victor D. Anyayahan, Senior Manager; and Luis Angelo D. De Castro, Senior Manager.

SM Retail was also recognized as a finalist for Privacy Initiative of the Year, a recognition of the company’s significant efforts in further educating its employees through data privacy learning channels, modules and learning sessions. These are key initiatives aimed at strengthening privacy awareness across the organization.

“These programs promote the responsible handling of personal data as part of everyday work using practical, retail-specific scenarios to make privacy more relevant and actionable for employees,” Ng further shared.

SM Retail’s Data Protection Officer (DPO) Leyson San Juan, was also named a Finalist for Data Protection Officer of the Year for the second consecutive year. These recognitions follow SM Retail’s Privacy Management Program Award win last year.

The awarding ceremony in Paranaque was held during the Privacy Awareness Week (PAW). PAW is an annual celebration dedicated to strengthening data privacy awareness and promoting responsible personal data processing in the Philippines.