TP in the Philippines Named Sustainability Impact Company of the Year at the 2026 IBPAP SOLAIA Awards

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TP in the Philippines continues to be one of the most recognized organizations in the IT-BPM sector providing opportunities and livelihood to countless Filipinos for 30 years. Receiving the trophies during the awards night were, from left, TP in the Philippines Marketing Director Nash Frias, SVP for Operations Patrick Lopez, VP for Human Resources Rachel Cacabelos, Chief Executive Officer Rahul Jolly, SVP for Operations Joy Raymundo, and VP for Learning & Development Inkee Hidalgo.

TP in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, has been named Sustainability Impact Company of the Year at the prestigious 2026 SOLAIA Awards, one of the Philippine IT-BPM industry’s highest recognitions for organizations driving meaningful and measurable impact through responsible business leadership.

The recognition underscores TP’s commitment to building a business that creates long-term value not only for clients, but also for employees, communities, and the broader Philippine economy through inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, workforce empowerment, and responsible governance.

Rahul Jolly, Chief Executive Officer of TP in the Philippines, emphasized that sustainability is deeply connected to the company’s long-term business vision and responsibility to society.

“Being recognized as Sustainability Impact Company of the Year is a powerful affirmation of the kind of organization we aspire to be — one where business growth goes hand in hand with creating meaningful impact for people, communities, and the country. At TP, sustainability is not a separate initiative. It is embedded in how we lead, innovate, develop talent, strengthen communities, and operate responsibly every day,” said Jolly.

TP in the Philippines was also recognized as a finalist in three major categories, namely AI Impact Award, Company for Regional Development of the Year, and Talent Transformation Program of the Year.

Organized to celebrate excellence across the IT-BPM sector, the SOLAIA Awards honors organizations that demonstrate outstanding leadership in innovation, talent development, sustainability, operational excellence, and transformative business impact.

These recognitions highlight TP’s growing leadership in shaping the future of work through AI-enabled innovation, inclusive countryside development, and people-first transformation programs.

Driving Sustainable Impact Across the Philippines

As one of the country’s largest private employers, TP continues to embed sustainability into the way it operates, grows, and serves its stakeholders.

Today, TP supports nearly 60,000 employees across its 26 sites nationwide, with a significant population of its workforce based in provincial and regional hubs, helping expand access to quality careers while contributing to economic growth beyond Metro Manila.

TP continues to strengthen employee well-being, engagement, and career mobility through initiatives that support both personal and professional growth. Its 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, mental health initiatives, leadership development pathways, and internal mobility programs have helped establish a strong people culture, contributing to TP’s recognition as a Great Place to Work for eight consecutive years. Notably, 87% of leadership roles are filled internally, reflecting the company’s strong commitment to developing talent from within.

Culture and belonging remain central to TP’s sustainability agenda in the Philippines. Women now represent 48% of leadership positions, while programs such as TP Women, TP Pride, TP For All, TP LaunchPad, and TP Prime continue to create opportunities for women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, persons with disabilities, students, returning overseas Filipino workers, and talents from underserved communities.

Beyond the workplace, TP in the Philippines continues to create meaningful social impact through Citizen of the World (COTW), its global corporate citizenship and sustainability program. In 2025 alone, 1,216 employee volunteers contributed more than 20,538 volunteer hours, positively impacting 29,618 individuals nationwide through initiatives focused on education, health, disaster response, and livelihood development.

Environmental stewardship also remains a key focus area for the company. In 2025, 63% of energy consumption by TP in the Philippines came from renewable sources, while carbon emissions intensity was reduced to 0.25 tons of CO₂ equivalent per employee — representing a 77% reduction in emissions per employee since 2019. During Earth Hour 2025, TP sites nationwide collectively saved more than 33,000 kilowatt-hours of energy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to embedding sustainability into everyday operations.

TP’s sustainability strategy supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including good health and well-being, quality education, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation, and partnerships for sustainable development.

With sustainability continuing to shape the future of global business, TP in the Philippines remains committed to advancing innovation, empowering people, and creating lasting positive impact across the communities it serves.

TNT’s Saya All promos now offer even more value for money

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TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), is giving subscribers more value with the enhanced Saya All 99 and the new Saya All 109 - both designed to deliver bigger data and a more worry-free week of connectivity filled with fun or ‘saya.’

With data connectivity now an essential to everyday life, TNT continues to better match how Filipinos stream, scroll, game, and stay connected. As such, its Saya All 99 and Saya All 109 offers now come with more generous data allocations and value at every price point, giving users the confidence that their needs are covered for an entire week.

More value, more saya

The enhanced Saya All 99 now comes with a total of 20 GB of data, combining 10 GB for Facebook, TikTok, and Mobile Legends, 7 GB of open access data, and 3 GB of 5G data, all valid for seven days. Subscribers also continue to enjoy Unlimited Calls and Texts to All Networks, making it an all-in-one package for both data and communication needs.

Complementing this upgrade is the launch of Saya All 109, a new offer designed for users who want an even more seamless and “Unli” experience. It includes Unlimited access to Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, Mobile Legends, and TikTok along with 7 GB of open access data and 3 GB of 5G data, plus Unlimited Calls and Texts to All Networks, also valid for seven days.

TNT customers can register to Saya All 99 and Saya All 109 by simply logging into Smart App, by dialing *123# on their phone, or heading to accredited TNT loading channels nationwide.

“Our priority is to continuously improve the value our subscribers get from every peso they spend. With the upgraded Saya All 99 and the new Saya All 109, we’re giving them more data, more flexibility, and a more reliable experience to keep their ‘saya’ going all week,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, FVP and co-OIC of Smart.

With these refreshed offers, TNT gives subscribers the flexibility to choose what fits their lifestyle and budget - whether they prefer bigger data allocations or always-on access to their favorite apps.

Award-winning mobile network

TNT’s offers are powered by the Smart network, recently recognized by Ookla for Best Mobile Latency Performance and Best Mobile Video Experience.

Together, this award-winning network plus TNT's value-for-money offers enable subscribers to keep their saya going while enjoying their favorite online activities - from connecting with loved ones, creating online content, sharing updates on social media, streaming the latest hit series, or playing mobile games.

To know more about TNT’s value-packed services, follow its official accounts on Facebook, X, and TikTok, or visit its official website at https://tntph.com.

Durable, aesthetic furniture picks from Uratex Monoblock to build your dream home

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For many newlyweds, building a home together is one of the most meaningful milestones they can ever have as they start a new chapter in their lives. More than a roof over their heads, it serves as a nurturing space for the family they will build; a home that is dependable and designed to stand the test of time.

Building the home of your dreams requires a furniture choice that not only fits your aesthetics but also your budget and standards as a growing family. Look no further, because Uratex Monoblock offers a variety of high-quality and durable plastic furniture with Level 5 ISO 7173 certification, setting the benchmark for the furniture industry.

Uratex Monoblock’s established expertise in furniture and interior design provides the highest standards, finding the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality with products tailored to fit every space at home.

An Elevated Dining Experience: The Alice Chair & Alfred Table

From at-home date nights to intimate gatherings with your closest circle, the elegance and 200kg capacity of the Alice chair, paired with the aesthetics and practicality of the Alfred table, are designed to make every meal feel like a 5-star experience. It combines the premium appeal of wood with the practicality of plastic—lightweight, easy to clean, moisture-resistant, and low maintenance.

Built for Big, Outdoor Occasions: The Aiko and William Set

A new home means a series of home visits from your family and friends. Hosting spontaneous get-togethers requires the right set of furniture that can accommodate not only the number of guests but also the weight of the festivities. The weather-resistant Aiko folding chair, along with the ever-versatile William folding table, is sure to fill your outdoor spaces with just enough nostalgia to relive your best memories and even help create new ones.

For Every Couple’s Shared Moments: The Mary Loveseat

Keep the love alive with furniture that brings couples closer together at home, without the added worry of wear and tear. Crafted from durable, solid plastic and certified to ISO Level 4 standards, the Mary Loveseat is built to support up to 160 kg without sacrificing comfort or style. Whether you're lounging indoors or enhancing your outdoor space, this seat is meant to turn your space into a cozy corner for your loved ones and guests.

New Home, New Memories: 

Building Your Dream Home with Uratex Monoblock

A new home is more than just a place to live—it is where life's most meaningful moments unfold. From quiet mornings together to celebrations shared with family and friends, every memory is shaped by the space that surrounds it.

Whatever your vision for your dream home may be, Uratex Monoblock offers the highest standard in furniture solutions designed to complement your lifestyle and make your vision of the perfect space a reality.

To learn more about Uratex Monoblock and their latest designs of furniture, visit https://uratex.com.ph/collections/monoblocs or follow their official Facebook page @uratexmonoblockchairs.

EastWest Rural Bank Boosts Back-to-School Readiness through DepEd Partnerships

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Expanding support for DepEd with learner protection, teacher wellness, and Brigada Eskwela initiatives

EastWest Rural Bank donated 20 smartphones to DepEd Learner Support Center to strengthen responsiveness of learner protection services nationwide, including mental health, child welfare, and anti-bullying response. 

As classes open nationwide this June, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB)—EastWest Banking Corporation’s rural banking arm—is strengthening its support for both students and educators. The Bank is rolling out a multi-faceted program focused on learner protection, teacher wellness, and community engagement initiatives in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd).  

“These initiatives reflect our shared commitment with DepEd as the new school year begins,” said EWRB President Sheila Marasigan-Bajado. “We believe that supporting education means caring for both learners and teachers—by strengthening protection systems, promoting health and financial well-being, and helping create safe, ready learning environments for every Filipino child.” 

Among these initiatives is the donation of 20 smartphones to DepEd Learner Support Center, aimed at strengthening communication and improving responsiveness of learner protection services nationwide, including mental health, child welfare, and anti-bullying response.  The turnover was held during the YAKAP at Kalinga Caravan across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 

 

To support teacher readiness, EWRB continues its free Annual Physical Test (APT) for Teachers, providing health consultations and mobile check-up services. The program, which has already reached over 4,000 educators since 2024, now also integrates GuroWAIS, delivering financial literacy sessions to help teachers strengthen money management and long-term financial well-being. 

 

Complementing these efforts, EWRB also contributed in-kind donations such as cleaning materials and supplies to selected schools, alongside employee volunteerism efforts in support of Brigada Eskwela. 

“This back-to-school season reminds us that education is a shared responsibility,” said Marasigan-Bajado. “We believe in building a future where every learner and educator feel protected, valued, and supported, and we are privileged to work alongside partners like DepEd in turning this vision into reality.” 

Philippines Shines at AYDA International Awards 2025/2026, Wins Designer of the Year and Nippon Paint Colour Award

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Filipino designers delivered a strong showing at the AYDA International Awards 2025/2026, with the Philippines securing two of the competition's top honors, including the prestigious Designer of the Year (Architectural Category) award and the Nippon Paint Colour Award (Interior Design Category).

Ejhey Durias of the University of Mindanao was named Designer of the Year (Architectural Category) for his project Banuas Lawod, while Patricia Danielle Malijan from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde received the Nippon Paint Colour Award (Interior Design Category) for her project KAMPIHAN during the global finals held in Bangkok from June 11 to 12.

The awards were presented at the 18th edition of the AYDA International Awards, Nippon Paint’s global CSR programme for emerging architects and interior designers. This year’s competition attracted more than 9,000 entries from 17 countries and regions under the theme “CONVERGE: Crafting Cultural Legacies.”

The recognition highlights the growing presence of Filipino design talent on the international stage, with both winning projects demonstrating how cultural heritage can be integrated into contemporary design solutions.

Nippon Paint Representatives with the Judges, Finalists and Winners of the AYDA Awards 2025/2026

Philippines secures top honours in global design competition

The two Filipino designers were recognised for projects that embody this year's theme of crafting spaces where cultural legacy and contemporary vision meet.

The two Designer of the Year recipients -- Ejhey Durias of the Philippines (Architectural Category) and Jackie Jiang Haoran of China (Interior Design Category) — will each receive a fully funded place in the Design Discovery Program at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design in Boston, USA. The three-week programme is valued at up to USD 10,000 and offers advanced exposure to global design practices.

Design rooted in culture and community

Durias’ award-winning project, “Banuas Lawod”, addresses the environmental decline of aquaculture in Southeast Asia and its impact on coastal communities, forcing entire fishing communities to abandon the way of life that defines them. The design proposes to restore not just a livelihood, but also a cultural identity through a sustainable aquaculture community hub for displaced fishing communities before their heritage is lost entirely.

"This project began with a simple truth: that for the Bajau people, home was never land. It was the rhythm of the tides beneath their feet, and when that is taken away, an entire culture is left to drown on dry land,” explained Durias. “This honour truly affirms that design can be both culturally rooted and globally relevant, and to receive it among the brightest young talents in the world makes it all the more meaningful.”

Meanwhile, Malijan’s “KAMPIHAN” explores a disappearing scene: the erosion of traditional play spaces and its impact on cultural transmission among children.

Set in Kampihan — a community whose identity is rooted in that shared experience of laughter, play, and community bonding — her concept reimagines the playground as a cultural anchor that strengthens connections across generations through play and sustainable design.

“Witnessing children in Cebu crowd around screens beside a broken playground made me realise how quickly traditional play is being forgotten. By capturing the vibrant ritual where palms flip to form teams, I wanted to celebrate the rich heritage that should still shape our communities,” Malijan said. “Winning the Nippon Paint Colour Award is a true honour, and I hope it encourages deeper conversations about how design can rescue cultural memory and bring generations back together.”

Malijan was awarded USD 1,000 for the Nippon Paint Colour Award.

Celebrating excellence across Asia

Beyond the Philippine wins, the competition also celebrated design excellence across a range of specialised categories. The full list of award winners is as below:

Architectural Category:

● Designer of the Year - Ejhey Durias, University of Mindanao, Philippines

● Best Sustainable Design Award - Michelle Vun Yi Ling, University Malaya (UM), Malaysia

● Best Design Impact Award - Sinem Göl, Istanbul Technical University, Turkiye

● Nippon Paint Colour Award - Shiu Jerome Millian, National University of Singapore, Singapore

● Honorary Mention - Pavithran Thurairatnam, University Of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Interior Design Category:

● Designer of the Year - Jackie Jiang Haoran, Central Academy of Fine Arts, China

● Best Sustainable Design Award - Sasit Kitiprasert, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

● Best Design Impact Award - Jeeshnu Kalidhas, Chennai Academy of Architecture & Design, India

● Nippon Paint Colour Award - Patricia Danielle Malijan, De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde, Philippines

● Judges’ Choice - Xu Yinghai, City University, Malaysia

● Honorary Mention - Shuvro Kumar Ghosh, Khulna University Of Engineering & Technology, Bangladesh

● Honorary Mention - Hsu Lawoon, Raffles College of Higher Education, Singapore

Nippon Paint Representatives with the Judges and DOTY Winners of the AYDA Awards 2025/2026

Nippon Paint Representatives with the Judges and Winners of the AYDA Awards 2025/2026

 Ejhey Durias, Philippines (AYDA Designer of the Year 2025/2026 Winner for the Architectural Category) and Mr. Wee Siew Kim, Group CEO of NIPSEA Group\

 Patricia Danielle Malijan, “KAMPIHAN”, Philippines (AYDA Nippon Paint Colour Award 2025/2026 Winner for the Interior Design Category) and Mr. Wee Siew Kim, Group CEO of NIPSEA Group

A platform shaping the next generation of design

Formerly known as the Asia Young Designer Awards, the AYDA Awards has grown over nearly two decades since 2008 into one of the most respected platforms for emerging architectural and interior design talent and into a cornerstone of Nippon Paint’s global CSR movement, Colouring Lives.

Built on mentorship, cross-cultural exchange, and hands-on learning, the programme has received over 76,000 entries from more than 1,600 tertiary institutions across 20 countries and regions. True to Nippon Paint's Colouring Lives philosophy, AYDA Awards remains barrier-free by design — no entry fees, no prerequisites beyond talent — connecting young designers with industry leaders, design schools, and a global alumni network that continues to shape the built environment long after the awards are presented.

For Nippon Paint, the AYDA Awards has always represented something greater than a competition. It is a declaration that design and colour are inseparable forces, and that the next generation deserves a world-class stage on which to prove it. It is a belief that has only grown over time, evolving into a grander convergence of creativity spanning the full spectrum of design: from the boldness of architectural vision to the transformative power of colour in space.

Design, culture, and global exchange

The Bangkok international finale also brought together a distinguished gathering of voices shaping the future of design. Speakers included Chat Chuenrudeemol of CHAT Architects and CHAT Lab; Phuttipan Aswakool, Co-Founder of Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic (ASWA); and Arzu Uludag, Group Marketing Lead of Nippon Paint.

"The AYDA Awards has grown into a global celebration that brings together emerging design talent from diverse cultures and backgrounds. It is especially encouraging to see how many of these young designers are drawing from cultural heritage while addressing pressing environmental challenges through thoughtful, sustainable design," said Mr. Wee Siew Kim, Group CEO of NIPSEA Group and Co-President of Nippon Paint Holdings.

He added that the programme continues to evolve ahead of its 20th anniversary in 2027, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing future design leaders.

Running concurrently with the AYDA Awards finale, the Nippon Paint Creative Colour Awards (CCA) 2026 returned for its fourth edition; celebrating professional architects and designers who harness colour as a purposeful design language and recognising the profound role that hue and tone play in shaping the emotional and cultural character of a space. Together, the two platforms reflect Nippon Paint's vision of uniting the full world of design, from student ambition to professional mastery, on a single global stage.

A new generation, a new convergence

The next chapter is already being written. The AYDA Awards 2026/2027 is now open for submissions under its new theme, CONVERGE: Embracing Hyperlocal — a call to go deeper, not wider; to find universally resonant solutions rooted in the specific textures of place, culture, and community. It is a challenge for the next wave of designers to ask not just what the world needs, but what their world needs, and to design from that truth. Submission deadlines vary by country and region.

For more information on the AYDA Awards, visit their website or their Instagram and LinkedIn pages.

To watch the recently held 2025/2026 awards ceremony and the finalists’ design presentations, tune in to AYDA Awards’ YouTube channel.